Checkpoints June 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

We

sports

96

99

102

Customer

DSN

Fax

E-mail

Web

EXECUTIVE OFFICE

President/CEO: James A. Shaw, '67

COMMUNICATIONS

Vice President: Dick Rauschkolb, '70

Editor: Bob McAllister

Assistant Editor: Ken Wright

Media Designer: Sarah Wright

Photography: Ken Wright

Writer: Christopher Stewart

Web Site: Brenda George

Class News Editor: Tom Kroboth

Advertising: Christopher Stewart and Bob McAllister

CHECKPOINTS(ISSN0274-7391) USPS 898-080 is publishedquarterly in April, July, September and December by the Association ofGraduates, U.S. Air Force Academy. (Phone: 719-472-0300, DSN: 333-2067. FAX: 719-3334194, E-mail: aog@aog-usafa.org.) It is provided as part of a membership package ofwhich the magazinesubscriptionannually 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 bythe Association ofGraduates ofthe products or services advertised. Copyright, Association ofGraduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy, JULY 2005.

Recently, members of my squadron and I both took an old, beat-up storage room and made it into our new TV room, one that looks better than any other I have seen.

It got re-plastered, repainted, new molding, new carpet and stadium seating. The AOG gave us more than $300 for this new room, and I just wanted to say thank you on behalf of all the members ofCadet Squadron 4!

Thank you!

Cl CMichael W. Knauf CS-04 “Fightin Fourth”

Religious respect

“You should do your duty in all things. You can never do more. You should never wish to do less” —Robert E. Lee

When I entered the USAF Academy (USAFA) in 1973, I made a life-long friend in Mikey Weinstein. We learned to do our duty, reinforcing our parents’ lessons. One of those duties is to right injustice. Mikey now presides over a public effort to dismantle all evangelical faith displays at USAFA. I disagree with my friend. It is my duty to speak out for the faith-based community currently under attack at USAFA.

After Mikey and I graduated, I served for 28 years (officer and cadet). I was honored to fly fighters. I returned to USAFA where I served as an Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of a cadet squadron, assistant fencing coach, political science and flying instructor. I now serve as the Graduate Associate for Eagle Eight, working for Major Mark Baroni, a superb professional officer. I retired from the Reserves in 2001 as a lieutenant colonel. I believe I am one of only a handful of USAFA graduates (almost 36,000 strong) who worked in all mission elements at USAFA.

In recent weeks, I watched as the press attacked evangelicals at USAFA. It hurt me to learn that some cadets used ethnic slurs to refer to other cadets. I read about inappropriate displays of

faith by officials at the Academy. But the evidence shows that these few displays were not mean-spirited. Ethnic slurs are different—they violate everything we learned. As a commander in the USAF, I might have prosecuted any military person who committed such acts against fellow servicemembers. But the handful of bad acts over the years led to the present outcry to remove evangelical faith displays from the Academy public square. This is wrong and unconstitutional.

The First Amendment guaranteed freedom o/religion, meant to prevent the federal establishment of a government church. It did not guarantee freedom from religion—such a guarantee by government is unconstitutional. Our citizens who believe in freedom from religion are part of a religion called atheism. But it was primarily people of faith, not atheists, who founded America. I do not demean our fellow citizens who are atheists. I respect their belief. But the tolerant attitudes of our nation for all arose from the Judeo-Christian ethic shared by most of our Founding Fathers. Tolerance did not have to be seized in America from people representing the Christian faith. Rather, it was givenfreely by our Constitution to all Americans by the predecessors ofthe very faith-based community currently under attack at USAFA.

Is there prejudice at USAFA against non-Christians? In my decades of experience, I never observed prejudice by cadets practicing their faith in the Spires program or elsewhere. People of allfaiths who take their faith seriously do not generally cause problems that rise to the level of the problems publicized in recent years. Most cadets are good people who take care of their classmates, care about integrity at the Academy, and practice acceptance for cadets ofall faiths. All the problems I encountered arose from cadets’ more secular pursuits overuse ofalcohol, sex in the dorms (or on dive trips), relationship problems between cadets and officers, and professional failings by both groups. People offaith like the evangelical community under attack today have never been the problem. I have talked to numerous officers and cadets now serving at the Academy. They agree—men and women offaith are not the problem presented by a small minority who believe in unconstitutional government enforcement of freedomfrom religion.

America is at war. We need people from allfaiths to carry the torch ofliberty. Stop the attacks against the 900+ evangelicalcadets. Those attacks are unjust and unconstitutional.

Lt. Col. (Ret.)John C. Buckley III, 77

“Theology gives sure rules for spiritual government, but not for the government ofarmies.” —Napoleon I

I am reasonably certain that most of the claims regarding evangelical Christian activity at the Air Force Academy are true. I believe this because I have spoken or corresponded with firsthand observers, including some who engaged in the activity themselves and because these activities are consistent with a rise in religious references that I observed on active duty. I believe the conduct is not just an academy, but an Air Force problem.

Overtly religious conduct on military installations and at military functions is a problem because it is cloaked in the garments of command authority. Even academy cadets understand that nothing happens on an installation without approval of the command structure.

Individually, these incidents would raise eyebrows, but not particular concern. Taken together, however, they reflect a constant drumbeat of religious pressure at the academy that must be perceived as indicative of a command preference for a particular religious point ofview.

Is there any doubt that a cadet hearing her instructor announce his religious affiliations would believe that these affiliations might play a part in her grade? Or that a Jewish cadet finding a Christian exhortation under his door and a crucifix in front of the dining hall on Easter morning would believe that he is not part of the team? Even worse, is there any doubt that non-Christian cadets would feel stifled in religious expression, knowing that their peers, and their peers’ sympathetic commanders, view them as damned, and that this feeling would reflect in evaluationsand selection for assignments?

Professionalsoldiers understand that the essence of military service is sacrifice for your country, for the Constitution, but most importantly, for each other. Lines drawn on the basis of religious affiliation, no matter how well-intentioned, are as inimical to unit cohesion as lines drawn on the basis of class, race or politics. Irrespective of the evils of a state established religion, which the drafters of the Constitution firmly rejected, overt religious affiliations by commanders are inconsistent with good order, morale and discipline in the armed forces because such displays are, by their very nature, divisive, rather than inclusive.

Does this mean that there should be no religious displays whatsoever in military installations? No, but it does mean that continuously injecting religious symbols and expressions of belief into official functions is improper. It means that commanders, including commandants and deans, must be espedally careful about public professions of faith that indicate, for example, that the only true hope for the world is belief in one particular entity.

I can tell you from personal experience that the conduct being investigated now would not be tolerated for three seconds by my corporate clients. Managers who actively proselytize and continually pepper their official pronouncements with reference to God, Jesus or other deities, quickly find their companies on the receiving end of a religious discrimination lawsuit. If this conduct is inappropriate in a civilian setting (because of the economic leverage of the employment relationship), it is even less appropriate in the command structure ofthe military.

The Constitution drafters recognized the problems with a government based on a particular religion. God, Allah, Vishnu, Siddhartha, Jesus or what have you, speak to different people in different ways at different times. The key to this nation’s culture, and its unmatched strength today, is in allow

ing each one of us to listen, at our own pace, and our own level of understanding, without interference. The academy leadership must be sensitive to preserving that culture and promoting that strength. After all, that is the mission of the academy’s products, at its most fundamental level.

JohnJ. MichelsJr., 77

Correction

The story “Grads pass flags at 5th AF Change ofCommand” published in the April 2005 issue ofCheckpoints should have listed HQ 5AF as being located at Yokota AB, Japan.

These two corrections are in reference to “A brief history of the honor system” published in the April 2005 issue of Checkpoints-. The first cadet ethics committees were formed in I960, not 1963; andthe last known case of a cadet being either administered or offered a polygraph was 1987, not 1972.

Nomination procedures for AOG Board of Directors

The AOG Board of Directors has adopted a standard set of policies and procedures for all candidates for Director-at-Large (4year term) and Class Decade Directors (2year term), designated and appointed candidates. Any AOG member willing to fulfill the requirements of directors may submit a nomination package. All nominations should include information from the candidate in the format described on the AOG Web site. Nominations may be submitted at any time but must be received by Sept. 1, 2006 to ensure proper consideration for the 2007 election cycle. For additional information and complete details, visit the AOG Web site at www.usafa.org.

AOG from the (Board Cshair

Fellow graduates and members ofthe Association ofGraduates, It has been a busy period at the Academy and for your AOG since the last issue of Checkpoints. The Class of2005 graduated on June 1, and 906 graduates joined the Long Blue Line. These men and women were doolies when the events of 9/11 occurred, and they are now entering a very dangerous world. In less than six months, some will be fighting the War on Terrorism. As a vivid reminder, on graduation day, the Air Force announced the deaths of two 2001 graduates, Capts. Jeremy Fresques and Derek Argel, who died when their Comp Air 7SL, a singleengine, utility and surveillance plane, crashed during an operational mission northeast of Baghdad. Both men were in special operations, training the Iraqis to get their Air Force up and running.

In April, Lt. Col. Keith Schultz, ’79, was presented this years Jabara Award for Airmanship for his contributions to airpower during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Schultz was cited for devising means for the B-52 to fly close air support missions in support of ground troops. (Yes, that’s not a typo, it was the B-52)! His ingenuity, perseverance and courage inspire us all.

On June 30, 1,400 new appointees entered the Academy. Once again the AOG played an instrumental role in bringing these young men and women into the Academy. Doolittle Hall serves as a focal point for inprocessing, and each new cadet passed by a replica of the Graduate War Memorial donated by the Class of 1970 and crossed the Challenge Bridge donated by the Class of 1959. Both monuments are on the Heritage Trail outside

Doolittle Hall. In front ofthe War Memorial, the new basic cadets were briefed on the dangerous nature of the profession of arms and the ultimate sacrifice made by the men and women whose names are forever etched on the memorial. They also read ’59’s moving challenge statement at the base of the bridge. The graduate community can be proud that through private handing of the Heritage Trail, the AOG is able to vividly highlight the accomplishments of Academy graduates, thereby inspiring new cadets to follow in their predecessors’ footsteps.

Earlier this year, the AOG was instrumental in helping to secure a mandate in the 2005 National Defense Authorization Act that provides for two graduates to serve on the Board of Visitors. And on May 20, President Bush appointed two graduates, Nancy Kudla, ’80, and Charles Garcia, ’83, to this key oversight board. We look forward to workingwith them. Among their many distinguished accomplishments, Nancy served as a member oftheAOG Blue Ribbon Council on governance, and Charles is an active AOG board member.

Congratulations to Dr. Hans Mueh, 66, for being appointed the permanent athletic director. Hans had been serving in this role on an interim basis. His selection is well deserved and we are confident he will have a tremendous impact on our athletic programs. Already he has recruited Jeff Bzdelik, the former coach of the Denver Nuggets, to be the Academy’s basketball coach. Jeffhas asked the AOG to help get more grads to attend away games and support the basketball team. Let us know ifyou have ideas.

During this quarter the AOG secured the fifth gift of $1 million or more for the

Academy. This helped to bring the total raised during the fiscal year that ended on June 30 to nearly $7 million.

In the April 2005 issue of Checkpoints, I described the creation of a Blue Ribbon Council on governance to perform a comprehensive review ofgovernance models for nonprofit membership type organizations and to recommend a best model for the AOG. The council included nine accomplished graduates and two retired general officers, who are honorary members of the AOG, and was chaired by Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Brad Hosmer, ’59. The BRC presented its report to the AOG Board of Directors on June 10 and theboard released it to the membership for their review and comment on June 13. The report is also reprinted in this magazine on page 12. The report is comprehensive and provides many recommendations whose implementation the BRC believes would make the AOG a stronger and better organization. I encourage each member to review this document and provide your comments to aog@usafa.org by the end ofJuly in preparation for the board’s deliberations on the report in August.

In the last issue of Checkpoints, I also outlined the upcoming election of new directors and the referendum on five proposed amendments to the AOG Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws. That election was completed on June 17, and results were announced on June 23. They are also included on page 8 ofthis magazine.

This election marks a key event in the evolution of your association’s governance. We have taken the first step in moving the board to being composed of a majority of competitively elected directors, andthe mem-

bership has spoken on how it wishes the key governance documents and the process for changing those documents to be handled. Over one-third (7,534 of 21,670) of eligible members cast valid ballots. And, while this is one of the highest turnouts in AOG election history, it nonetheless is also a reminder that nearly two-thirds of our members chose not to vote in what was undoubtedly the most hotly contested election in our history. Thanks to all who took the time to become familiar with the issues and who voted.

We congratulate and welcome to theBoard the five graduate members who were elected as directors. Each had been nominated by the Nominating Committee and approved as candidates by the Board. Steve Finch, ’65, Col. Marty France, ’81, and Mike Flynn, ’95, will serve four year terms as at-large directors; and Pat Rosenow, ’76, and Edie Edmondson, ’92, will serve two year terms as decade directors. All began their Board terms on July 1. We also extend our thanks to allthe other candidates for volunteering their service.

The new board as ofJuly 1 is composed of 20 directors including 11 who were elected, six who were appointed, and three who are designated by virtue of the position they hold. At the first Board meeting on August 13 this Board will elect its Chair and will deliberatethe recommendations of the recently published BRC Report on Governance. Those deliberations could lead to the Board reducing itself to 17 members at the conclusion of the meeting, with the three designated directors voluntarily relinquishing their seats per the BRC recommendations. Also, those deliberations will likely lead to the board asking the members to vote on the BRC recommendations, or some variation ofthem.

This election also included key votes on five proposed amendments to the Articles of Incorporation and the Bylaws. As shown in the election report, three passed and two failed. To implement those that passed, the Board will promptly take the necessary administrative and legal steps to promulgate, with an effective date of June 22, a revised set of Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation that incorporate the changes approved by the members. In summary, these changes are:

(1) The right to change the Articles and the Bylaws will be vested in the members. The Board may propose changes, andthe members may propose changes. But, in either case, the members must

vote to approve the changes. The effect of this change is that the Board can no longer make substantive changes to the governance documents without member approval.

(2) Members may have their name placed on the ballot for election as a director, without approval of the Nominating Committee, bysubmitting a petition with the signatures of 25 members. The effect of this change is to reduce the required number of signatures from 1 percent of the membership (about 215 signatures today) to 25 signatures.

(3) The Board will have the authority to make “technical” changes to the Bylaws to ensure conformance with the law, without a membership vote. The effect of this change is to enable theBoard to efficiendy keep the governance documents in compliance with the law.

The proposed amendments that failed to pass would have altered the way in which members could propose changes to the governing documents by: reducing the number of members who may petition for a change from 10 percent of the membership (about 2,150 today) to 100 members; lowering the quorum required for votes on changes from 25 percent of the membership (about 5,400 today) to simply the number of votes cast; and by requiring written ballots with specified timelines keyed to the publication of Checkpoints magazine four times per year. The effect ofthe failure ofthese amendments to pass is that the members will continue to be able to propose and vote to make changes in accordance with the current process—10 percent ofthe members are needed to propose changes, a 25 percent quorum must be achieved for a vote to be valid, and a simple majority ofthat quorum is needed to pass an amendment.

The Board believes that this is a good result for your Association. It represents a compromise position between the competing ideas for governance. On the one hand, it gives the members the ultimate responsibility for making changes to the Association’s governing documents; on the other hand, it establishes reasonable thresholds to ensure those documents are protected from continuous attempts to change them.

As a practical matter, the effect of these changes is that your new board, with your input, will be able to carefully deliberate the

BRC recommendations at its August meeting and present a comprehensive proposal to the membership for approval. We believe that is good governance.

On June 13 Board member Jim Ulm, ’61, asked to step down as a director for personal reasons. The board consented to his request, and we thanked him for his many years of service to the AOG and the Academy. Jim was elected in 2003 and his term does not expire until 2007. In such cases, the Bylaws call for the Chair, subject to the approval of the Board, to appoint a successor to complete the unexpired term. Since we have just completed a competitive election, the board agreed unanimously that we use theelection results to guide our appointment. So we asked the next highest at-large vote getter, Mike Christy, ’63, to fill Jim’s seat, and he has agreed to do so.

So, on July 1 we welcomed seven new members to the board—the five whom you just elected; Ed Eberhart, ’68, who was recendy appointed to begin on July 1; and Mike Christy, who will fill Jim Ulm’s unexpired elected term. Your current board members look forward to working with each and every one ofthem.

On a final note, the board regretted to hear that Superintendent Lt. Gen. John Rosa has chosen to end his term early and leave the Academy to become the president ofhis alma mater, The Citadel. General Rosa was chosen as a result of an extensive nationwide search andThe Citadel’s gain is certainly our loss. On one hand we wish him and Donna all the best as they go to this next stage of their life; they have certainly earned the right to do so, and we are confident that he will lead The Citadel well. On the other hand, we hate to see him leave. His leadership has been clear anddecisive, his communications have been frank and open, and he has put in place the foundation for a future for the Air Force Academy that we believe is sound and sustainable. He has been a friend to the AOG and a strong supporter of the Building Leaders of Character for the Nation Campaign. The fact that he was not a graduate ofthis institution was immediately irrelevant. We encourage the Air Force to find someone with similar leadership and communications skills in their selection of the next superintendent.

Thanks,

Ted Legasey, ’67

Board Announces 2005

ELECTION RESULTS

THE 2005 ELECTION OF DIRECTORS AND THE VOTE ON THE ARC-PROPOSED PETITION have been certified by the AOG Board Secretary. There were 7,534 valid ballots cast. The results ofthe election are as follows:

At-large Directors (and votes received): William S. Finch, ’65, (2,081), Michael J. Flynn, ’95, (1,755), Martin E.B. France, ’81, (2,752).

Decade Directors (and votes received): Patrick M. Rosenow, ’76, (770) and Edie L. Edmondson, ’92, (494).

Congratulations to these new directors who will begin their term of service on July 1. Thank you as well to all the candidates who ran and volunteered their time and service

The required quorum of 5,417 for a vote on the ARC-proposed amendments was attained. A majority of 2,710 votes is required to pass a proposed amendment. The balloting on the ARC-proposed amendments is as follows:

Thank you to all members who voted in this

2005 ELECTION REPORT

22 JUNE 2005

w.

cast for ’70s

IARC: The “R” is for REUNIFICATION

BY JIM WHEELER, ’64

n the fall of 2004, several of us came to the realization that individually we could never influence the AOG Board to seek meaningful governance changes. Consequently, we decided to organize and to contest the governance ofthe AOG under the banner of a nonprofit corporation. The first order ofbusiness was to devise a name, and we experienced our first unanimous vote when we agreed that whatever name we selected, it should include “AOG.”. Our reasoning then - and now is quite simple: we are all members of the AOG and we support the missions of the AOG.

After considering many suggestions, we decided to call ourselves the “AOG Reunification Committee”, the ARC. During our deliberations, it had been suggested that the “R” should be for “Reform”; but we decided that our primary goal was to “reunify” the AOG membership, not to reform the AOG. Logically, if we achieved “reunification” through a campaign to “Let the Members Decide ’, reform would naturally follow.

Now, after the Referendum voting results have been announced, we can reaffirm that the ARC goal has not changed. The going-in theme of reunification is still intact. To some, this may be surprising, but it should not be. The intramural contest over competing governance approaches - member centric vs. board centric - has been heated at times. Nevertheless, for the most part, pertinent issues have overwhelmed less significant peripheral topics. Therefore, as we collectively reflect on the Referendum results, it is time to look to the future of our AOG.

I feel comfortable in asserting that all AOG members would like to have a strong, unified, independent AOG when the dust settles on the current unrest. As we look to the future, we should all aspire to an expanded membership, more - not less - support for our school, and a stable AOG that is responsive to graduate needs and dedicated to the perpetuation of the heritage and traditions of our school.

Whatever differences of opinion emerged over the last many months of turmoil, one reality persists: we are all graduates of the United States Air Force Academy. Our common background and shared experiences bind us far more than any disagreements will ever divide us. And, because of this, we will now be able to come together to build the independent, strong, unified AOG that is needed as our school struggles to overcome a recent history punctuated with multiple issues that remain unresolved and in need ofgraduate input.

While the ARC has embraced a vision for the future built on an informed, engaged membership, we are not naive enough to think that the AOG will realize this vision overnight. Since 1997, input from the membership has been largely ignored as the members became a source offinancial support in lieu of a pool oftalent to support the Academy. Under the new governance philosophy adopted by the membership, the AOG should be able to marshal that talent to benefit the Air Force Academy, the US Air Force, and our country.

The immediate task for the “new” Board will be to provide the members with a revised set ofBylaws to implement and to supplement the amendments that have just been ratified. Innovative proposals developed by the Blue Ribbon Council (BRC) andthe ARC Centurions have already placed excellent suggestions before the graduate community for discussion and constructive debate. The ARC is prepared and hopes to be given the opportunity to work directly with the new AOG Board to craft a composite Bylaws proposal for submission to the membership for ratification.

The ARC also feels strongly that the transition to a fully accountable, member-elected Board of Directors must be accomplished as soon as possible. The membership has voted for change. With the change, must come new leadership. Some graduates have already called for an immediate “special” election to replace incumbent Directors who were not competitively elected. The ARC has proposed a more orderly compromise that envisions a fully elected Board of Directors in place in early 2006.

The next few months will be a busy time for the new Board; but I suggest that the Board - and the membership - must face one key question in the very near future:

Why is it that barely 50% ofthegraduate community belongs to theAOG ?

The AOG needs to find out why grads are not interested in joining and why so few ofthe members actively participate at the national or local level. Obviously, the AOG has to offer attractive services and programs to attract and to retain members. Equally obvious, the AOG must better inform members on relevant issues and welcome member input on those issues. Fortunately, member participation in theARC Petition Referendum confirms that graduate interest can be revitalized ifwe are willing to discard the old and to work for a better future. Clearly, a competitively elected, accountable Board ofDirectors will need the support and trust ofthe membership as they strive to design a plan for the future of our AOG.

At some point in the future, when an AOG Historian writes a chapter on the AOG Reunification Committee, it will be noted that the ARC was able to initiate a process ofchange because it was successful in awakening a sleeping giant - the AOG membership. The challenge that we must all accept now is to not let apathy creep back into the membership. If we make that mistake again, we - the members will have betrayed our school and each other.

O.K. enough said. It is time for all of us to pause a moment, to take a deep breathe, and to make a commitment to stay informed and to stay involved it’s our AOG.

And, let’s not forget: the “R” is for Reunification.

Association of Graduates

UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY

BLUE RIBBON COUNCIL

June 2005

STUDY AND REPORT ON ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES GOVERNANCE

Conducted by:

Lt. Col. (Ret.)Tom Eller, ’61

Gen. (Ret.)Ron Fogleman, ’63

Lt. Gen. (Ret.)Brad Hosmer, ’59, Chair

Nancy Kudla, ’80

Ted Legasey, ’67

Gen. (Ret.)Jim McCarthy

Harry Pearce, ’64

Gen. (Ret.)Mike Ryan, ’65

Holly Svetz, ’80

Brig. Gen. (Ret.)Mai Wakin

Wayne Whalen, ’61

Table of Contents

Introduction

Charter

Rights and Responsibilities ofAOG Members

Duties ofAOG Board of Directors

Part I. Discussions and Governance Recommendations

A. Mission Statement

B. Membership

C. Governance: Amendments to Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation

D. Governance: Board, Committees and Class Advisory Senate

E. Conduct ofMeetings

E Finance

G. Conflicts of Interest

Part II. Policy Recommendations

A. Communication

B. Advocacy

C. Class Advisory Senate

D. Member Participation

E. Strategic Plan

F. Operating Manual

Part III. Transition Recommendations

A. Key Transition Principles

B. Policy and Philosophy

C.Governance

Part IV. Conclusion

Part V. Revisions to Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation

Introduction:

This report summarizes the discussions, decisions, and recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Council (BRC), a group of United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) Association of Graduates (AOG) members appointed by the AOG Board of Directors to review and propose appropriate governance practices for the AOG. The BRC sought and received comments (in person and through our website) from numerous members. The BRC also reviewed selected authorities on corporate nonprofit governance, the controlling statutes, and governance structures ofother organizations. In approaching our assigned task with the goal of improving the governance of the AOG, we achieved consensus in a cooperative spirit.

The BRC developed the following charter to aid in its review ofAOG practices:

Blue Ribbon Council Charter

“To propose governance arrangements appropriate for a membership non-profit organization such as the AOG. Considering the mission of the AOG, the rights and responsibilities of the Members, and the duties of the Board of Directors, with input from the AOG membership, the BRC will recommend how the Articles of Incorporation andthe Bylaws can be changed, the composition of the Board, the process for electing Directors, and other governance matters.

The Council believes that effective governance arrangements are those that assure, to the extent that governance can, an AOG which is able to achieve its mission and is trusted by the graduate community to do so.”

Because the AOG is more than a traditional alumni association, the rights and responsibilities of its members are greater than those of traditional college graduates. Specifically, the AOG plays an integral part in Academy life, taking a central role in the Academy’s work to build leaders ofcharacter for the nation. In addition to supplying graduates with a support network through communication, services and camaraderie; the AOG sponsors Academy leadership, academic, athletic, and character development programs, and relies on graduates for support by directly interacting with cadets, as well as through personal, professional, and financial support for AOG programs and initiatives. Many of the enhancements and enrichments to the Academy experience are not funded by the federal government and are provided by private funds raised by the AOG for the benefit of the Academy.

The AOG is a conduit through which graduates can communicate and influence the Academy in many ways. One is by informing Academy leadership regarding both the needs of the Air Force and how USAFA is satisfying those needs through its graduates and programs. The AOG also has the leadership responsibility for raising and allocating private resources to achieve our common goals. Finally, the AOG is the key link allowing the Academy and its graduate community to work together to ensure the fulfillment of the Academy’s mission through the core Air Force values of integrity, service, and excellence.

Rights and Responsibilities ofAOG Members:

The BRC believes that Academy graduates have a responsibility to maintain ties through the AOG with the Academy. The character and leadership qualities developed at the Academy, thenhoned through Air Force or other professional experience, are profound components of every cadet’s future.Furthermore the unique challenges and opportunities offered to cadets in many cases foster enduring commitments to integrity and excellence. Graduates should feel a responsibility to support the institution in the form ofparticipation and involvement to enhance those challenges. Thus, we believe that Academy graduates have both a right and a responsibility to influence the Academy. We hope for participation in the form ofmembership, financial support including paying dues, making contributions appropriate to one’s abilities, active support of graduate activities and services, and energetic involvement on AOG committees and representation in its governance. AOG members’ rights include:

1) The right to nominate and elect directors and to propose and approve changes to the bylaws,

2) The right to receive and access information regarding Academy, graduate, and class activities and programs, as well as AOG operations andrelated financial information;

3) The right to express and share opinions and suggestions regarding AOG operations, policies, governance, programs, and positions, including participation in related AOG membership voting;

4) The right to access and use AOG membership services and programs; and

5) The right to participate in and serve on the AOG Board, committees, and other AOG membership groups in accordance with established AOG guidelines and policies for eligibility, election, and appointment.

In conjunction with these rights, AOG members also share a common set of responsibilities, including:

1) To support and promote AOG programs, reputation, and accomplishment of its mission to serve the Nation, Air Force, USAFA, and graduate community;

2) To support and participate in the AOG organization, activities, and programs through personal, professional, and financial contri butions;

3) To help maintain the quality and completeness ofAOG records and information, particularly as it pertains to the individual member’s information; and

4) To assist in theachievement ofthe Academy’s mission through cadet interaction and support, providing positive role models for cadets and other graduates, and through other activities and support that contribute to the well-being and excellence ofthe Academy, its cadets, and graduates.

AOG members, particularlyAcademy graduates, bear these rights and responsibilities with the certainty ofthe ultimate importance ofthe Academy to our Air Force and Nation, and the understanding of our vital and unique role in supporting the Academy’s achievement of its mission.

Duties ofAOG Board of Directors:

The AOG Board is responsible to its members. The organization must be trusted by its members, must communicate—both transmit and receive—effectively with its members, must enable members to participate in the activities of the organization, and must provide appropriate services expected by its members. The Board has a duty to operate in an open fashion in accordance with the Bylaws, regularly asking members for opinions and reporting back to them.

The AOG Board should provide the long range planning for the organization. It should provide oversight and ensure effective communication flowing among graduates and between the Academy and graduates. It should also provide fiduciary supervision ofthe organization’s funds, and strategic guidance to ensure preparation for tomorrow’s leaders and support for the Academy’s graduates. The AOG hosts enterprises such as career transition programs, reunions, heritage events, humanitarian assistance, and member participation in cadet activities.

The AOG Board of Directors plays a pivotal role in the success or failure of the AOG in the accomplishment of its mission its and public reputation. Accordingly, theBoard has important duties, including:

1) To fulfill conscientiously its fiduciary responsibilities as outlined in the Bylaws, Articles of Incorporation, and other established AOG policies and standards;

2) To translatethe AOG mission into appropriate and worthy strategic plans, fund raising programs, and member services, initiatives, and activities; and to lead and ensure the execution and ongoing evaluation and improvement ofthese activities; and

3) To provide and promote two-way communication among and with all AOG stakeholders, including AOG members, graduates at large, the AOG organization, and Academy administration and leadership. The Board should be open to proposals from membersand resolve differences in views.

To fulfill these duties, the Board has the reasonable expectation ofsignificant and ongoing support from these same stakeholders.

Finally, the BRC recognizes that every Director has the duty to represent every member of the Association. A Director must act in the best interests of the entire membership.

Part I. Discussion and Recommendations

Discussion and recommendations follow. Necessary changes to current Bylaws to implement these recommendations are incorporated in Part V.

A. Mission Statement

Discussion: For purposes of the Mission Statement, the AOG has an obligation to all graduates, but dues-paying members benefit from increased rights and services, such as the right to vote, to stand for office, to receive copies of Checkpoints and to have access to the Graduate Register and various financial documents.

The BRC proposes restating the AOG mission statement to gain the benefit ofbrevity and a sharper focus at the strategic level.

Recommendation: A revised Mission Statement should be substituted for the current Vision, Mission, and Objectives contained in Article 1 ofthe Bylaws. The Vision and Objectives portions may be included elsewhere in AOG documents (such as the Operating Manual or a Strategic Plan.) The Mission Statement set out below is both strong and encompassing to provide the AOG Board and the AOG with direction:

The Mission ofthe Association of Graduates

To serve and support the United States ofAmerica, the United States Air Force, the United States Air Force Academy, and the graduate community by:

-working in partnership with the Academy to produce and foster graduates with an enduring commitment to integrity, excellence, and service to country;

-providing leadership, communication, and support to all the Academy’s graduates, and promoting camaraderie among them; and

-promoting the Academy’s heritage, common traditions, andthe accomplishments of its graduates.”

B. Membership

Discussion: The BRC recognizes there should be a distinction between graduate and non graduate members ofthe AOG in that graduate members have the responsibility for governance ofthe organization. Today the AOG has Associate Members, primarily parents ofcadets, who constitute a valuable subset ofAOG members. Presendy the Associate Members have the right to vote in AOG elections. However, the AOG Board does not have the authority to change the voting rights of current Associate Members. Therefore, these Associate Members should be grandfathered and no new “Associate” memberships should be accepted. A new class ofassociated members without governance responsibilities should be created by the Board to make this important distinction between graduate and non-graduate members.

Recommendation: We recommend that the right to vote in AOG elections be limited to graduate members, with the exception ofgrandfathered Associate members, who shall retain their rights until their memberships expire.

C. Governance: Amendments to Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws

Discussion: _The Articles ofIncorporation and Bylaws should be strategic, stable governing documents. For that reason, the mechanisms for proposing and approving amendments should have sufficient thresholds to avoid frequent or short-term changes. However, thethresholds should not prevent either the Board of Directors or themembersthe opportunity to propose and approve changes where growth, adjustment in strategic goals, or passage of time merit changes.

Currently the Articles ofIncorporation do not have a stated mechanism for amendment. Because the Articles are silent, Colorado law gives the members the authority to amend the Articles ifapproved by a majority vote of a 25% quorum ofthe membership. There are approximately 20,000 current members ofthe AOG. Currently, the Bylaws provide members no right to propose amendments to the Bylaws or to vote on amendments proposed by the Board, so Colorado law applies. Colorado law does permit members to propose Bylaw amendments by gathering signatures of 10% ofthe membership, then requiring the Board to submit the proposals to a vote of the membership.

The BRC believes 10% is an unnecessarily high threshold for members to initiate governance change in the AOG.

Recommendation: Both the Articles and the Bylaws should use the same mechanism for proposal and approval ofamendments. Both should first require the Board or 5% of the members to propose an amendment. Any changes to Articles or Bylaws should initially be put to the members for approval. The members may pass the amendment by a majority vote of a quorum of25% of the membership. However, ifsufficient interest is not shown by a 25% quorum of the membership, we believe the Board should have the power to make the proposed changes. Thus, the Board should be able to pass the proposal by a 3/4 vote ofall Directors after considering the sentiment of the voting membership. The Board should re-visit the 25% quorum in the future to determine if it should be lowered ifthe organization consistently fails to achieve 25% participation.

D. Governance: Board, Committees and Class Advisory Senate

Discussion: The BRC addressed a number of priorities and concerns in arriving at its final recommendations:

1) a smaller, more manageable Board, most ofwhich is competitively elected,

2) increased representation, and

3) increased numbers ofgraduates involved in governance.

The BRC believes that the preponderance of Board members should be elected by the full membership but that the Board should retain the option to have a small number of Directors with special skills appointed to the Board in smaller numbers. The Board should no longer have Designated Members (CEO, Sabre Society Chair, Campaign Co-chairs), but the chairs of important AOG functions and AOG staff may participate in Board meetings as appropriate. Access to nominations for director positions should be available both by petition and at the initiative of the Nominating Committee.

The Board’s Committee Structure shoulddraw on Board member leadership and non-Board member participation to increase committee effectiveness and gain benefits from a broader base of ideas.

The BRC believes that the AOG would benefit from providing every class with involvement, a direct voice and an ear to the AOG leadership and the Academy. A group, beyond the Board, with an explicit advisory role is appropriate. We believe a Class Advisory Senate could serve as a graduate-wide assembly to provide advice, consultation, feedback and ideas to the AOG leadership, as well as serve as a conduit for outreach to and involvement of the graduate community regarding AOG and Academy issues and initiatives.

The BRC recognizes there is a tension between efficiency and transparency in governance. The BRC believes the AOG Board should move in the direction ofgreater openness and transparency.

Recommendations:

1. The AOG Board of Directors should be composed of up to 13 members, 9 competitively elected and up to 4 appointed:

a. All Directors, whether elected, appointed, or in combination, should serve a 4-year term and should be limited to two consecutive 4-year terms, with a break of four years before being eligible to serve again. If a vacancy occurs, theBoard should select a replacement to serve until the next election or appointment as the case may be.

b. The 9 elected Directors should be graduate members elected by the AOG membership through competitive elections with at least twice as many candidates as there are open positions.

c. The Board officers should be the Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. At the first meeting after an election cycle, the Board should select one of its members to serve as Chair. The Chair, who must be a graduate, should serve a two-year term, should be eligible for a second consecutive two-year term, and during transitions should serve as Chair, as long as he or she is still a member ofthe Board. TheChair should nominate a graduate Director to be the Vice Chair to be approved by the Board. The Chair should nominate the Secretary and Treasurer with approval from the Board, consistent with the current bylaws.

d. The Board should select as many as 4 appointed Directors (2 every 2 years) based on the needs for certain skill levels, experience (financial, audit, investment, legal, etc.) and diversity. The selection of the appointed Directors should occur at the second meeting after each biennial Board election. AOG members who are not Graduates may serve as appointed Directors.

e. Elected Directors should serve 4-year terms, staggered every two years (4 elected one year, 3 elected two years later.)

f. The AOG Corporate Officersshould be the President/Chief Executive Officer, who reports to the Board, and the Chief FinancialOfficer.

2. The Board should have a number of statutory committees and the authority to establish other committees. The statutory committee chairs should be Directors. Because of the reduction in the size of the Board, an Executive Committee is no longer necessary. The BRC recommends the Board establish the following statutory committees:

a. The Nominating Committee, chaired by an elected Board member, should be composed of at least six other nonBoard committee members. Its primary duty is to develop at least twice as many highly qualified candidates as there are vacancies on the Board. Candidates for election may be recruited by the Nominating Committee, may volunteer to be considered by the Nominating Committee, or may be placed on the ballot by petition in accordance with the Bylaws (Article IX, Section 1). The Nominating Committee should endorse at least twice as many candidates as there are vacancies. The Nominating Committee should evaluate all nominees to ensure they meet published Board member requirements and are qualified to fulfill their fiduciary responsibilities.

b. The Finance/Investment Committee should be composed of both Board members and members at large. Members should have financial or related experience.

c. The Audit Committee should be composed of both Board members and members at large. At least one member of the Audit Committee should be a financial expert.

d. The Governance Committee should evaluate the Board and ensure an ongoing self-appraisal process. It should devise a process for measuring the effectiveness of the AOG in performing its mission. It should also address ethics issues, including conflicts of interest, conduct periodic reviews of the Bylaws, and ensure AOG practices are consistent with those Bylaws. The Vice Chair of the Board should act as Committee Chair, and a majority of the members should be Board members.

3. The BRC also recognizes the need for, and usefulness of, periodic telephone or electronic meetings ofBoard members. As a practical matter such meetings are more difficult to conduct in a manner that is open to allmembers whilestill being an effective and efficient way to conduct Board business. Usually such meetings are called on short notice. The BRC observes that such meetings can give the appearance of a lack oftransparency. Thus the BRC recommends that the Board explicitly recognize the risk ofthe appearance ofsecrecy and

1. minimize the use ofsuch meetings;

2. restrict as much as possible the necessary meetings to topics that do not require Board votes;

3. publish the minutes ofall such meetings including the results of votes. If a telephone or electronic meeting covers materials that would normally be reviewed in closed session, the BRC recommends that the exceptional circumstances guidelines recommended above be followed. Board actions should not be taken in closed or executive session unless they meet the exceptional circumstances outlined above.

The BRC recommends that the AOG take additional steps to publish minutes that are more substantively descriptive ofeach meeting (including handouts), and publish within 5 days of Board approval. We also recommend the Chair have the discretion to publish the minutes earlier as provisional minutes. The AOG should publish major policy documents such as the Strategic Plan and the Operating Manual and distribute, electronically where appropriate, to members regular displays ofmanagement and financial information and appropriate explanations. Such steps will enhance the transparency ofoperations.

4. A Class Advisory Senate should be established.

a. The Class Advisory Senate should meet at least annually, in addition to periodic, smaller gatherings and ongoing communication with the AOG organization and Board through a combination of teleconferences and web-based posting and discussion boards.

b. Each graduate class should provide one representative to the Senate.

c. Senate members should serve 2-year terms, are eligible to serve a second 2-year term, then should wait two years before serving again.

d. A Board member should be appointed to be the liaison between the Board and the Senate.

e. The duties of Senate representatives should include:

1) Attendance and participation in Senate meetings, as well as related communications and requests;

2) Responsible representation of their respective class’ perspectives and interests; and

3) Regular and timely communication with classmates regarding Senate activities and issues.

E. Conduct of Meetings - The BRC recommends that the Board meetings be as open as possible. Current AOG Bylaws place some restrictions on speaking roles at Board meetings by non-Board attendees. The BRC recommends that theBoard permit dialog between Board and non-Board members, subject to management by the Chair, during both committee and Board meetings. The BRC recognizes the need for closed sessions thatnon-Board members cannot attend. However, the BRC urges the Board to limit such meetings.

To accomplish these ends, the BRC recommends that all scheduled Board meetings be publicized with an agenda, indicating possible executive sessions or new business, whenever practicable. Only in the exceptional circumstances defined belowshould in-person meetings not be open to allmembers:

1. Matters pertaining to nominations for directors or committee members, employees of the Association or matters involving the employment, promotion, discipline, or dismissal of an officer, agent, or employee of the Association.

2. Matters relating to fund raising activities or financial transactions where untimely public disclosure would serve to diminish the Association position.

3. Consultation with AOG legal counsel concerning disputes that are the subject of pending or imminent court proceedings, or matters that are privileged or confidential between attorney and client.

4. Investigative proceedings concerning possible or actual criminal misconduct of an officer, agent, employee, or any member of the Board of Directors, or Committee of the Association.

3. Matters subject to specific constitutional, statutory, or judicially-imposed requirements protecting particular proceedings or matters from public disclosure.

6. At the request of any official guest who is on the Board’s agenda.

7. When 2/3 of the Directors direct a closed meeting.

F. Finance :

Discussion: The BRC reviewed the financial provisions ofthe current Bylaws as well as the Audit Committee’s Charter and the Financial Management and Investment Policy. The AOG has in place today the standard means to ensure the necessary level of transparency: meeting minutes, financial reports, independent audit, conflict of interest review, and certification. In addition, the current AOG financial governing documents, with some adjustments, are sufficient to enable the Board to conform to industry norms as well as satisfy legal requirements and recommendations for sound internal controls, financial management, disclosure, adequate transparency, and accountability.

Recommendation: The Audit Committee and Finance/Investment Committee should be statutory committees of theBoard and their Charters and related documents should be reviewed to ensure they are consistent with current best practices.

G. Conflicts of Interest:

Discussion: The BRC reviewed the AOG Conflict of Interest provisions in both the Audit Committee Charter andthe Financial Management and Investment Policy.

Recommendation: With minor modifications of current provisions, the BRC recommends that appropriate conflict of interest directives be included in the Bylaws. The Governance Committee should be assigned responsibility for these issues. Appropriate conflict of interest requirements should be added to the Bylaws.

Part II. Policy Recommendations

In the course of discussion, a number of recommendations emerged which did not necessarily rise to the level of governance mandates. Nonetheless, the BRC has concluded that they should be included in this report as policy recommendations or strategic priorities.

A. Communications

While Checkpoints magazine provides valuable information and resources to graduates and to the Academy, the BRC believes that the AOG should act more as a two-way conduit of information, taking graduate concerns back to the Academy administration. We see the AOG as a connector, a communications hub, between graduates and

1. other graduates,

2. USAFA, and

3. current cadets.

We recommend the AOG establish as a priority the improvement of communications and interaction between graduates and the Academy. This area has also been addressed recently in a Strategic Communications Plan proposed for the AOG, which has excellent recommendations and should be used as a suitable initial framework. The Class Advisory Senate should address many ofthese goals as well as the Board. The AOG could help accomplish these many objectives by strengthening chapter links to the AOG, as well as inviting more graduates to act as volunteers for the AOG or to act in various committee positions within the AOG structure. The AOG should publish information about AOG committees to include names, purposes, list of current members, and projects, and solicit participation by the members-at-large.

The BRC believes the AOG may not tend sufficiently to graduate services. As part of the focus on communications discussed above, the AOG should stress the services it currently provides and query the membership regarding further steps it might take to offer the services that the graduates would find valuable.

The BRC believes it is important to provide financial insight about the AOG to themembers. The AOG should communicate its sources and uses offunds. The AOG should publish the Donor Report on its website and the Audit Committee should write an annual letter to the members, printed in Checkpoints and the web site, about the audit report and other appropriate items it deems of interest to members.

B. Advocacy

We recommend that the AOG become more proactive in advocating a stronger graduate voice.

The AOG staff and the Board have an obligation to become informed and alert to current issues and events affecting its mission. The Board shoulddetermine where it is appropriate to initiate or respond to such issues and events with a single voice. It should decide what methods, resources and means to employ to assert its position in order to impact events.

Based on our review of the literature on the subject and comments from graduates, there are a number of actions aimed at influencing legislation and executive policy that fall below the definition of lobbying. For instance, a volunteer attempting to influence legislation without reimbursement of expenses by the organization is not lobbying. In addition, an organization contacting its members to urge them to contact policy makers in support oflegislation is not lobbying.

More should be done by non-uniformed graduates to influence legislation or policy concerning USAFA or the Air Force. The AOG should inform and, where appropriate, encourage its members to contact individually various policy-making bodies, be they SecAF, CSAF, DOD, or Congress. Further, we believe the AOG should establish a committee to track legislation and policydevelopments affecting the Air Force and the Academy, communicate information, and raise—where appropriate—concerns to the members. A committee composed of a Director chair and members from the proposed Senate or other interested members would be particularly valuable. The AOG can then ask graduates to make their individual views known.

We recommend that the AOG expand its public advocacy role within the following guidelines:

1. inform and know the sense of the graduate community,

2. choose its issues wisely,

3. base the level of advocacy on the issue,

4. develop and understand pre-existing relationships with the particular policy-making body,

5. develop a relationship of trust with the Academy, Air Force leadership, and other key points of influence, and

6. withhold from publicly lobbying in opposition to Air Force or Academy policy.

Even before the AOG decides to support legislative initiatives, information about current legislative actions may be ofinterest to many AOG members, to the AOG as an entity, and the Academy as an institution. Other organizations with similar goals do such tracking. Perhaps arrangements can be made to share their results without significant resource cost to the AOG on a trial basis, to test feasibility and members’ interest level.

C. Class Advisory Senate

The BRC encourages the AOG Boardand staff to initiate promptly effective processes to ensure the Senate functions effectively. There are a number of ways for classes to select their representatives for the Class Advisory Senate. Some classes have effective class officers in place to conduct an election. Others have strong communication links through their class scribes to inform and solicit volunteers or nominations. However, some may require assistance and guidance from the AOG, at least initially. We recommend that the AOG put information out to all classes via theweb site and through the class scribes. Where a class does not provide a representative, the class scribe should fulfill the role. The Class Advisory Senate should be open to proposals from members. It should address and resolve when possible differences in views and provide recommendations to the Board.

D. Member Participation

Members should raise viewpoints and concerns to the Class Advisory Senate, the appropriate committee, and, if necessary, the Board. The AOG should maintain a list of names ofmembers who are interested in contributing their time on activities, by topic. These could be drawn on for selection of non-Director positions on Board Committees, ad hoc committees, review groups, etc. The volunteer efforts of members should be a major resource for the AOG, providing it is solicited and employed in an organized and effective manner. The AOG should conduct an on going and aggressive campaign among graduates to join the AOG.

E. Strategic Plan

The AOG should develop and publish a strategic plan, which is at least a five-year plan, rolling forward via annual updates. Thedraft plan should be vetted with the Class Advisory Senate and reported to the Board, with representatives’ comments, for approval annually.

F. Operating Manual

The AOG staff should develop and publish an operating manual. This document should record standing policies and describe required operational practices. The recommendations of this Report that fall below the level of governance would reside in the Operating Manual. Examples include: meeting practices, including member access and minutes, and policy recommendations made earlier in this section.

This manual would also be the appropriate location for best practice guidelines. For example, whistleblower protection, document retention and destruction, non-discrimination, and equal opportunity hiring.

Part III. Transition Recommendations

With the approval by AOG members of the governance model recommended by the BRC, a transition must occur. This section of the report outlines the transition approach recommended by the BRC.

A. Key Transition Principles The transition should take place as rapidly as feasible without impairing the AOG’s ability to carry out its mission. The transition should show respect and consideration for incumbent officeholders, and be in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The transition should not impair the continuity ofAOG operations and functions, or significantly disrupt the staff.

B. Policy and Philosophy

The BRC believes that most elements of the recommendations should be implemented immediately, while others require processes to be amended to complete the change. Those that can be implemented immediately include, among others, the Mission Statement, the Duties of Directors, some reduction in the size of the Board, establishing the Governance Committee, selecting of the Class Advisory Senate, and transparency enhancements.

Specifically, the AOG priorities should be aligned with the revised mission as quickly as practical. The BRC recommends that the AOG Board and staff immediately embrace a member service focus for its operations and programs. Ongoing policies, procedures, systems, programs, and operating practices should be reviewed as quickly as possible to test them against this member-service orientation. Necessary changes should be identified and implemented. Finally, the BRC recommends that the AOG set a goal, and put a plan in place, to achieve more transparent operations. This goal should be adopted without delay.

C. Governance

1. Board and Senate Operations. The BRC recommends that the Board seated on July 1, 2005 adopt the BRC recommendations regarding Board operations as quickly as possible. The BRC recommends that this Board recognize the transition role it must perform to move the governance of the AOG to the BRC-recommended approach as effectively and efficiently as possible. This will be a key aspect of the Directors’ duty of care and loyalty in achieving the goals of the AOG.

The BRC recommends that the current Designated Directors relinquish their positions as Board members at the conclusion of the first meeting of the Board in August 2005. This step would signal to the membership that change in the structure of the Board has begun.

In terms of the Class Advisory Senate, the BRC recommends that theBoard target to convene the Senate for its first annual meeting during May 2006 to coincide with the May 2006 Board meeting.

2. Transition Sequence. In terms ofspecific Board composition, the following sequence will provide a timely and positive transition:

The Board that begins its term on July 1, 2005 will be composed of 11 elected directors (64.7%) and 6 appointed directors (35.3%), assuming that the Board accepts the BRC recommendation with respect to designated Directors. This combination ofelected and appointed directors is not significantly different from the BRC recommendation of9 elected (69.4%) and 4 appointed (30.6%).

The elected Directors include 6 graduates who were elected in 2003 and whose terms expire in 2007. In addition, the elected Directors include three at-large Directors competitively elected in June, 2005, whose terms will expire in 2009, and two decade representative Directors also competitively elected in June, 2005, but whose terms expire in 2007. Thus, 8 of the 11 elected Directors have terms expiring in 2007.

The appointed Directors include six graduates whose terms expire in 2009. However, the BRC understandsand appreciates that three of them have agreed to leave the Board in 2007. Thus, as ofJuly, 2007, three current appointed Directors will remain.

As a result, going into the 2007 election, to be held in the spring of 2007, the Incumbent Board will have three Directors who were competitively elected in 2005, andthree appointed directors whose terms continue to 2009. In the election in the

spring of 2007, AOG members will competitively elect six new directors, and one new director would be appointed under the BRC’s proposal, bringing the Board to its BRC recommended configuration. The BRC recommends that two appointed directors remaining from the group ofsix, from whom three already agreed to step down in 2007, also agree to relinquish their seats in 2007 so that the new Board can either re-appoint them or others to meet the needs of the Board at that time.

By following these recommendations, the Board in 2007 will be fully compliant with the structure recommended by the BRC. All directors currently serving will have been competitively elected or (except for one) newly appointed by the new Board members as of that time.

Part IV. Conclusion

Based on the BRC’s review, discussions, recent events and numerous communications with graduates, we believe some graduates have questions regarding trust and the appropriateness ofthe AOG s direction. We have sought out, listened to, and considered these views while removing from the discourse inappropriate focus on personalities. Instead, we addressed best practices for governance and operating procedures. Both for the value ofimproved governance, and because trust and confidence in the AOG by the membership is an appropriate test of its effectiveness, we are recommending both the governance and policy changes contained in this report.

The recommendations are intended to provide an AOG Board structure, governance and operating practices of a more effective organization with more fully informed membersand Directors. If enacted, we believe our recommendations will lead members to participate more in the governance and activities of the organization and, in the end, sustain the trust and confidence in the AOG that is also necessary for an efficient and effective organization. Another result should be the development of increased graduate services expected from the organization. We also anticipate these proposals will enhance the fund raising prospects of the AOG, which should naturally assist in accomplishing the AOG mission.

In arriving at these conclusions and recommendations, we acknowledge the assistance of the current Board of Directors; the AOG staff; Marianne LaRivee (Class of 1980), who has served as BRC Executive Assistant; the AOG Reunification Committee; and many, many graduates for their input and support.

Lt. Gen. (Ret.)Bradley C. Hosmer Chair, Blue Ribbon Council.

To review the entire proposed Bylaw changes by the BRC, please visit the AOG Web site at www.usafa.org and click on “Elections and Governance.

FOREVER CHANGED CADETS

BY TOM ROEDER, THE GAZETTE

I -^ | brought a jubilant end to four I Lii 1 V X tumultuous years for the cadets or the Air Force Academy class of 2005.

They entered the academy shortly after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Their last days were marked by a cadet’s rape trial and a burgeoning investigation into claims of religious bias.

But after the 906 cadets graduated, some of them said the troubles over the past four years have made them only stronger.

“When 9/11 hit and we were freshmen, we all had a chance to leave the academy and we didn’t,” said newly minted 2nd Lt. Justine Brent.

The cadets hugged, gave high-fives, shouted rebel yells and tackled one another after they got their diplomas and shook Vice President Dick Cheney’s hand.

Every time Cheney used the term “class of 2005” during his speech, the cadets roared their one-word class motto—“strive.”

The new lieutenants are entering a military at war, and many predicted that continuing conflicts against terrorists and rogue nations could mark their careers. At a minimum, cadets are obligated to five years ofAir Force service, with pilots required to spend at least a decade in uniform.

“I definitely see myselfdeployed to combat, and Fm fine with that,” said 2nd Lt. Aaron Jones, who spent a year in the academy’s preparatory school and four more on the main campus to finish his degree.

Second Lt. Marie Juan is heading to California for a job as an Air Force engineer. She said she’s readying herself for the battles ahead by soaking up knowledge that might aid in the war effort.

“For now, I’m learning as much as I can.”

Many class members said struggles during their academy years prepared them for Air Force careers.

“It solidified us as a group,” said 2nd Lt. Cookie Day.

After 9/11 came a sexual assault scandal in which dozens of women came forward alleging the academy either mishandled or ignored their claims. That brought about sweeping changes in academy policy, ranging from an overhaul ofthe discipline system to a new program designed to build character.

Then came cheating investigations and academy concernsover cadet alcohol abuse. The Pentagon now is investigating reports of religious bias at the school.

“It helps us to understand that when problems arise, you have to rise up and meet them,” said 2nd Lt. Adam McDade, who hopes to fly F-16 fighter jets after he completes pilot training.

Second Lt. Tim Coles said it seemed like waves started breaking at the academy on 9/11 and never stopped.

“Ever since that day, it doesn’t seem like anythingstayed consistent.”

But the determination fired by the terrorist attacks never left the cadets.

“It made you realize quickly why you are here,” said 2nd Lt. Elaine Tatarek.

The officers around them saw the class of 2005 grow up in a hurry, said Brig. Gen. Dana Born, the academy’s dean of faculty.

“They are nothing short ofphenomenal,” Born said. “This class has known war since the month after they arrived. They remained dedicated. They are ready to go.”

BYTHE NUMBERS

Parents noticed a change in their children as they were forged by life at the academy.

“She was so petite when she entered,” Claudia Herd said ofher daughter, 2nd Lt. Kim Vanessa Herd. “But now, she’s a strong, tough girl.”

After members of the class of 2005 tossed their hats into the air with the Air Force Thunderbirds blazing in low overhead, their joy was evident.

“It’s awesome,” said 2nd Lt. Rob Stanfield.

“It’s the biggest feeling of accomplishment in the world,” said 2nd Lt. Amber Hoffman.

Printed with thepermission ofthe Colorado Springs Gazette. © Contact the writer: 636-0240 or troeder@gazette.com. Staffwriter Jacob Luecke contributed to this report.

The Air Force Academy graduated 906 cadets on June 1. Here are some facts on the class of 2005.

-Of 1,269 cadets who entered the academy in 2001,29 percent left before graduation.

-Of the 906 who graduated, 518 will begin pilottraining.

-The class includes 160 women and 161 people from minority groups.

-The class had 39 cadets with a parent who graduated from the academy and 51 cadets who followed a sibling through the school.

-The class included two sets of twins.

-Since 1959, the academy has graduated 37,898 cadets of which 424 have become Brigadier General or higher.

Previous page: Newly commissioned 2nd lieutenants celebrate their accomplishments. (Photo by Danny Meyer) Above: Vice President Richard B. Cheney addresses the graduating academy Class of 2005. (Photo by Charley Starr)

President John Tamasitis, '05, delivered this speech to his class during this spring's graduationbanquet

On behalfofSuperintendent ofyour United States Air Force Academy Lt. Gen. John Rosa, the Commandant of Cadets Brig. Gen. John Weida, andthe Dean of the Faculty Brig. Gen. Dana Born, I would like to welcome you to the Class of2005’s graduation banquet.

Good Evening, my name is John Tamasitis and I am the Class of2005 president. I would like to start out this evening by thanking all of you for being here on thismemorable night. Thank you to allthe moms and dads, brothers and sisters, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, fiances, boyfriend, girlfriends, and any loved ones I may have forgotten to mention.

It is because of your love and support that the 907 of us will walk across that stage tomorrow. We are here tonight to celebrate you and your contribution, as well. So thank you.

This evening, I have been asked to stand before you and render a briefhistory ofour class, the Class ofPatton, and what I like to refer to as the "class ofchange." No doubt, the vast majority of you know the trials and tribulationsthat our class has had to endure, but indulge me for just a moment as I go through a list ofthem.

We left all of you on the 28th of June in 2001. We came here bright-eyed, full ofhope, and, indeed, living out a dream. If we only knew what a rollercoaster it would be...

After only being here at USAFA for twoand-a-half months, we witnessed the most devastating attack in our nation’s history on Sept. 11. We were young and innocent, and we could not grasp the magnitude of what was happening. We watched the towers burn, and we saw our nation gripped in fear as the towers fell. We witnessed our brothers and

CLASS OF 2005

photo by Ken Wright

sister in arms frantically rush out of the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and we sat in disbelief as our commander-in-chief called upon the U.S. military to act. It was then that we realized, fully, that we were now engaged in our generation's war.

Many of our classmates left—the reality just too great to take. The rest of us—we knew what was to come. The face ofthe nation and our military were changed overnight. We were in a war for our very existence, andthe following months saw incredible changes to security, rules and our own attitudes toward our role here at the Academy. We knew, deep down, that this war would not last a few days or a few months—or even a few years. We knew that this was a war that we would be fighting long after that fateful day in September but we all stayed.

Shortly after the beginning of our sophomore year, the numerous investigations on the inside ofthe Academybegan. The inner workings of our school were broadcasted on "60 Minutes," "20/20," "Oprah," and read in every major newspaper across the country. A "scandal" arose that rocked our institution in a way that no one was prepared for, and none of us were ready to accept. The glow of our great institution seemed to fade away little by little as the story grew, and what we knew and loved—this Academy—would never be the same again.

We saw changes to everything here: changes to the administration, changes to the way we lived our daily lives, and changes to the way we taught leadership. And, what’s more, we, as the Class of 2005, were asked to implement these changes—those we agreed with and those we did not. But we, as a class, persevered.

We learned the new ways, we embracedthe new ideas, and we made them our own. We taught them to those below us, and we worked hard to bring the pride and glory back to this Academy

.our Academy.

Since then, a new system has been implemented, the War on Terror has continued, and we, here at USAFA, are beginning to see the glow return to our Academy. It will be hard work to restore the pride and tradition that this Academy had before it all changed, but the work has been started. And it was started by our class, the class of change.

Our legacy will not be remembered by how many tours we marched, or the spirit missions we performed. It will not be remembered by how many of us graduate with a 4.0, and it will surely not be remembered as a legacy of scandals and failures. Instead, our legacy can be captured in the sheer determination and passion of 907 young men and women who were dedicated to restoring greatness to one ofAmerica’s finest institution—battered by war, hardened by the reality oflife, and exposed at the very core. Our legacy will be that of change.

Thank you for all being here tonight, and I look forward to seeing all of you again in just over 12 hours when we, the United States Air Force Academy’s Class of 2005, finally throw our hats in the air and begin a new chapter in the history ofthe greatest air and space force in the world and a new chapter in our lives.

Thank you for your time and enjoy this wonderful night. S

Spring Wing Commander’

By 2 nd Lt. Nick Jurewicz, ’05

Photo by Ken Wright

aced with a myriad of recent challenges these past years, we are often confronted with a simple, yet daunting question: “Who are we?” The Air Force Academy appears to be searching for a clarification of its identity. And as with all complex questions, we are inevitably resigned to complex answers.

For insight we often turn towards others, toward external sources for the clarification. Each source may reveal some of who we are, what we stand for, and may further help define our role. Helpful though these sources may be, sometimes they miss the answer.

What, then, is our identity?

The media endeavors to answer this question according to its own agenda. Story after story defines and redefines peoples’ perception of the individuals andthe institution of the Air Force Academy. Media pressure can become social, then political, pressure that is then translated into new rules, new methods, and new systems. As a result, the media can dictate a large part of our identity as well.

What, then, is our identity?

Some ofthe changes and programs at the Air Force Academy reflect different organizations. These organizations—whether sister service academies, AETC, or others—contribute to our development and progress, but at the same time, can limit our feelings ofindependence.

What, then, is our identity?

With the outside influence so prevalent, consistency might be rare; the Air Force Academy could easily be a reed amidst the demands of the society around us, changing to accommodate the wishes ofothers. This is not the case, however. While some external sources may appear to shape the Academy’s identity, the impact is only superficial.

In fact, the identity ofthe Air Force Academy is as strong and firm as ever; the nucleus of our institution remains the same. Our identity has been, and always will be, the people that enter, live within, and march through the marble walls ofthis fine institution.

Bring the athletes and the scholars. Bring the jumpmasters andthe instructor pilots. Bring the Firsties down to the Fourth Class Cadets. Bring all the cadets, and we have the men and women that compose theheart and soul of our Academy’s identity.

A new generation ofcadets has entered the Air Force Academy and in the process risen to face a challenging environment. The challenge has manifested itselfin numerous visages: a new training system, redefined roles or expectations, different training courses, and the general, increased flexibility that is currently required by everyone at the Air Force Academy.

Yet while some of these challenges may be unique products of the time, they are met by the steadfast traits found in all cadets and gradu-

ates alike: determination, fortitude, and perseverance. It doesn’t matter the obstacle, it doesn’t matter the challenge, the Cadet Wing will rise and emerge successful. And just as the classes and generations before us, we can be trusted with the challenge and responsibility of defending the United States ofAmerica.

So in the search for an identity, do not look elsewhere to define the Academy. Rather, look to the Air Force Academy itself, and specifically to the men and women attending today, to see the strongest and the proudest heritage of all—a worthy identity, indeed. H

Some think annual giving is not rocket science

Annual gifts to the Air Force Academy Fund provide support to many important cadet academic experiences, including the rocket research program.

For more information about the Air Force Academy Fund, please contact Greg Knedler, director of annual and class giving, at (719) 472-0300 or greg.knedler@usafa.af.mil.

i Building Leaders

M of Character for the Nation

The Campaign

www.usafa.org

Graduates, parents, cadets and those familiar with the United States’ military service academies understand that an academy is unlike any other institution of higher education in the world. The rigors of the Air Force Academy’s academic curriculum, competitive Division I and intramural athletic programs, demanding and instructive military training experiences—all framed in the context of building leaders of character for the nation—distinguish the Academy as a world-class institution.

Yet, top colleges and universities nationwide are competing for the same students the Academy seeks. Institutions of higher learning throughout the country invest a significant amount of time and resources in their admissions process. More than ever before, prospective candidates are bombarded with campus viewbooks, e-mails and videos from often hundreds of college and universities. To sustain their standards, reputations and status, colleges and universities continue to employsophisticated and calculated methods for recruiting students, andthe United States Air Force Academy is no different.

“The Academy’s admissions office understands its critical importance to the USAFA mission,” says Director of Admissions Col. Trapper Carpenter, ’73, which is: “To educate, train and inspire men and women to become officers of character motivated to

lead the United States Air Force in service to our nation.” Moreover, the future of the Long Blue Line hinges on the Academy’s ability to attract the attention and interest of exceptional applicants.

“Many graduates and parents are surprised to learn that students as young as sixth grade are first targeted by the Academy as prospective candidates,” Carpenter says. “Aim High,” a fun, engaging CD funded by the Association of Graduates and distributed by the admissions office, provides grade schoolers with interactive experiences that introduce them to the U.S. Air Force Academy. They learn at an early age that four years of math, science and English—while not a requirement for high school graduation—are necessary for application to the Air Force Academy. The CD also introduces students to a career as an officer in the U.S. Air Force with games and interactive experiences that allow them to parachute, pilot a jet, and walk in space. The Air Force core values, integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do, also are incorporated in the CD’s message.

From their first exposure to the Air Force Academy in “Aim High” and throughout their middle and high school experiences, prospective candidates are reminded ofthe Air Force Academy with pencils, pens, key chains, bumper stickers, visors, stickers and many other prod

ucts they receive from the admissions office. Brochures, catalogues, and the admissions Web site, www.academyadmissions.com, include specific information about the core academic curriculum, available majors, professional leadership opportunities, major athletic programs and character development programs.

“Leadership for the New Millennium,” is another interactive CD funded by the AOG and mailed by the admissions office to high schoolstudents. The CD, which uses technology to engage and excite prospective candidates about the Air Force Academy, includes a virtual tour of the Academy and provides straightforward information about Basic Cadet Training and the Academy’s other military training experiences, academics, athletics, cadet life and after-graduation experiences. Candidates are reminded that the cadet experience is significantly different from the typical college experience. High school experiences like community service, extracurricular and leadership experiences, and athletic involvement play a significant role in evaluating candidacy.

Campus tours provide the perfect opportunity for prospective candidates and their families to visit the Academy and learn first hand what it’s like to be a cadet. “Especially since more than 80 percent ofall appointees come from nonmilitary families,” Carpenter says, “educating prospective candidates and their families about a service academy

experience andthe opportunities and challenges provided at the Air Force Academy are critically important.”

Carpenter, counselors and recent graduates meet with candidates and their families to introduce them to the Academy and cadet experiences, answer questions, and provide feedback about candidates’ application status. Graduates talk about their Academy experiences and how it continues to affect their careers and lives. Prospective candidates attend cadet classes, eat lunch in MitchellHall and tour the dormitories and athletic facilities. Families tour classrooms, dormitories, Mitchell Hall and Arnold Hall; they also have the option oftouring the athletic facilities andCadet Chapel. The Academy’s 27 Division I athletic teams provide similar orientations for recruited athletes.

Two Academy Summer Seminars are held each June and are sponsored by the admissions office, Academyfaculty and AOG. The one-week seminars provide candidates with a small taste ofwhat it’s like to be a cadet at the Air Force Academy. Classroom and laboratory experiences, intramurals, fitness assessment entrance exams, and sessions on the Honor Code, the Academy’s character development programs and Basic Cadet Training are part of the experience. Each year, more than 1,500 rising high school seniors apply for the 800 available slots, and between 35-45 percent of the seminars’ attendees eventually apply and are accepted in the next Academy class.

All appointees are invited and encouraged to attend one of the Academy’s appointee orientations. The two-day sessions, which are sponsored in part by the AOG, are held in April. The Academy superintendent, senior staff, air officers commanding, Academy military training NCOs, and current cadets talk with appointees and their families about entering the U.S. Air Force Academy, answer questions, and address appointees’ and their families’ concerns. Sessions on Basic Cadet Training, the honor system, and the Personal Ethics and Education Representative program also are included. Appointees spend the night with cadets in dorm rooms and attend classes the next day. The orientation gives appointees an unmatched opportunity to make an informed decision about whether the Academy is a good fit for them.

“Appointee orientations provide the best opportunity for our young men and women to see what the Air Force Academy’s all about,” says Lt. Gen. John Rosa, Academy superintendent. “If it were possible, I’d like to have all appointees and their families attend one ofthe sessions.”

Last fall, the admissions office also began a new program, targeted at increasing diversity recruitment at the Academy. “AOG funds alone allowed 18 students to visit the Academy for two days to experience what it’s like to be a cadet,” Carpenter said. “Sixteen ofthose students will inprocess with the Class of 2009 on June 30, and based on the program’s initial success, we hope to expand the visit program in the future.”

Through marketing and media products sent from the admissions office and AOG, the Air Force core values and the Academy’s character development programs are emphasized through every step ofa prospective candidate’s interaction with the Academy.

“Appointees are regularly reminded of the rigors of attending a service academy and are urged to make sure they are interested in the Air Force Academy for the right reasons—not because of its prestige,

BY THE NUMBERS

CLASS OF 2009 PROFILE

Academics

Combined SAT - approximately 1290

Average ACT - 30

Average high school GPA - 3.92

Top 10 percent of class - 55 percent

Minorities - 19 percent

Gender: Females - 19 percent, Males - 81 percent

Extracurricular activities

Athletic letter - 84 percent

Class president or vice president - 18 percent

Eagle Scout / Gold Award - 13 percent

pressure from families, or the idea ofgetting a ‘free education’—but to be challenged in ways they never imagined, learn how to function effectively as a team, and be part of the military profession,” Carpenter says.

The application process for prospective candidates begins with a pre-candidate questionnaire. This information can be provided as early as the spring of a candidates junior year ofhigh school; it must be completed and returned to the admissions office by January of the year of entry. The admissions office evaluates each candidates application to determine if the applicant would be competitive for an appointment. If the candidate moves forward in the process, they must meet with an Academy admission liaison officer, complete a fitness assessment and medical exam, mail paperwork to the admissions office, and obtain a nomination (mostly from a U.S. representative or senator).

To assist congressional representatives with the nomination process, the admissions office hosts several orientation sessions at the Academy each year that educate congressional staff about the high standards, key attributes and essential qualifications expected of cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Congressional staffer workshops also are hosted by the Academy each summer in three major cities. This summer’s sessions, co-sponsored by the other U.S. service academies, will be held in Chicago, Dallas and San Francisco.

Candidates’ applications are evaluated based on their academic achievement, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and character and motivation. Grade point average, class rank, level of academic coursework, and national test scores are included in the academic achievement category. Students’ involvement in school and community activities also plays an important part in their evaluations. Many are class presidents, National Ffonor Society members, Eagle Scouts, leaders of clubs and teams, and varsity athletes. Candidates also serve their communities through local and international volunteer work.

Characterand motivation, while being a critically important part of candidacy evaluation, also are the most difficult elements of candidacy to assess. The application includes essay questions that require candidates to answer “What personal quality do you think

Marketing

should form the foundation an officer’s character?” and “Talk about an experience that helped form that quality in you.” Part of candidates’ teacher recommendations include an evaluation of students’ day-to-day interactions with peers and teachers, roles in small groups, followership, and acceptance of criticism. Candidates must provide information about any traffic tickets, felonies, drug and alcohol abuse and their background. Individual circumstances—such as participating in extracurricular activities while financially assisting their families; being raised in underprivileged families, overseas or in military families; and living in foster care—also are considered. Additionally, all candidates interview with admissions liaison officers at least two or three times. Recruited athletes also interview with Academy coaches. Character, leadership qualities and motivation are the focus of the interviews. In many cases, the interview serves as the tie-breaking determination for very competitive candidates.

The admissions office begins extending appointments to qualified candidates as soon as their files are complete—usually in late October and November. Appointment offers continue on a rolling basis—sometimes until the day before In-processing.

Like most alumni associations for colleges and universities throughout the country and across the globe, the Association of Graduates plays a vital role in the success of the admissions office.

“The AOG funds the Academy’s most effective recruitment products,” Carpenter says, “and support from the AOG provides opportunities for prospective candidates to attend Summer Seminars and appointee orientations.” Without the AOG’s support, some of the seminar’s participants would be unable to attend. Graduates stationed and located at cities nationwide and beyond serve as admission liaison offers, who play an integral role in working with candidates to navigate through the admissions process. Graduates meet with prospective candidates and cadets to share their operational Air Force and “real-world” perspective about their Academy experiences and lasting impressions on their lives and careers— inspiration to the future leaders ofAmerica’s greatest air and space force.

“To say the admissions office appreciates the AOG’s help is a tremendous understatement,” Carpenter says. Recruitment CDs funded by the AOG, events and activities hosted by graduate chapters, and support

and media products sent to prospective candidates starting in the sixth grade help the Academy remain in students’ minds throughout their college search.

provided to parents clubs play a key role in helping the admissions office reaching prospective candidates and their families.

“Telling the Academystory—graduate suecesses, cadet achievements and information about positive news and events taking place at the Air Force Academy—is part ofthe mission of the AOG,” says retiredcolonel Jim Shaw, ’67, president and CEO ofthe AOG.

“Checkpoints magazine, the Parent Handbook AOG Web site, www.usafa.org, and ZoomiEnews, the AOG e-newsletter, are four key AOG publications that reach graduates, cadets, parents and friends,” Shaw says. “The AOG is proud to provide these and many other products and services.”

After candidates accept their appointments, they receive a CD from the AOG that includes a welcome and congratulatory video message from the AOG, a checklist for parents and cadets, and an introduction to the important history and heritage of the Long Blue Line. The Academy also mails appointees a welcome package that includes information about the Air Force core values’ relevance to the cadet experience, challenges appointees and parents can expect, Honor Code and the spirit ofthe oath, philosophy of Basic CadetTraining and tips for its successful completion, standard codes of conduct, and summary ofthe role ofthe Uniform Code of MilitaryJustice.

The Bed & Breakfast program is another important service provided to appointees and their families. The program places appointees who are traveling alone to In-processing with local Academygraduates, faculty and staffthe night before In-processing. “This year will mark the tenth year the AOG has sponsored the Bed & Breakfast program,” Shaw says. “Last year, 368 members ofthe Class of2008 participated in the program, and this year very generous hosts continue to volunteer to help with the program.”

“Having someone pick up their son or daughter from the airport, feed them, and give them a welcoming place to sleep really gives parents who can’t travel with their appointee to In-processing great peace of mind,” Carpenter says.

Like most of the AOG s programs, graduates, parents and friends play an important role in supporting the AOG. Membership and philanthropic support provides the neces

sary resources to sustain its day-to-day operations. Also, support from chapter and parent club leaders who host various events across the country—like send offs and recruiting visits —support the admissions office.

“It’s only fitting, then, that In-processing, the first official day of duty for an appointee, begins at Doolittle Hall, home of the AOG,” Shaw says, “and throughout a cadet’s Academy experience and beyond the AOG continues to support the cadet and graduate community.”

The Air Force Academy remains a premier institution sought after by thousands of prospective candidates each year. Every effort is made to offer admission to only the very best applicants. Nevertheless, prospective candidates are a reflection of today’s society, a society where underage drinking, illegal file sharing and academic dishonesty are alarmingly common. The admissions office continues to examine ways to better evaluate

candidates’ character, leadership potential and motivation.

“The search for and the ability to attract our nation’s best and brightest is a process that must be continually refined and bettered,” Carpenter says. While success is never absolute, the history and heritage of the Long Blue Line validates the Academy’s longstanding success in recruiting America’s best and brightest.

And the AOG will continue to stand ready to support in any way it can. 9

For more information about:

Applying to theAcademy call (800) 443-9266 or visit

www.academyadmissions.com

Admissions marketing!mediaproducts contact LeAnn Nelson (719) 333-4398

Admission Liaison Program contact Lt. Col. Greg Myers (800) 443-8187 or (719) 333-2653.

Academyflight screening replaces intro flight training

By Butch Wehry, Academy Spirit

The Academy’s flight training program has been changed to better prepare potential flyers for pilot training.

The 557th FlyingTraining Squadrons Introductory Flight draining was replaced by the Academy Flight Screening program this spring.

AFS, an improved method of screening potential Air Force pilots, is now used for all Academy pilot candidates, said the 306th FlyingTraining Group commander, Col. Paul Ackerman, ’82.

AFS is a prerequisite for Academy cadets and recent graduates going on to the Air Force’s Joint Specialized Undergraduate Pilot draining.

AFS uses a military-style syllabus, similar in nature to other Air Education and draining Command flight training syllabi, including those in use at JSUPT. The program consists of 19 sorties and approximately 25 flight hours; it includes two solo sorties and two check rides conducted using military/JSUPT standards.

Ground-based training will have much more of a JSUPd -like atmosphere in both the scope and style of presentation.

AFS will give the pilot candidate a much better example ofwhat they can expect in their JSUPT experience, Ackerman said.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University will continue as the contractor providing flight screening under AFS.

In the past 12 months, the 557th ITS has trained approximately 300 IF F students for a total flying time ofapproximately 15,000 hours.

“In IFT, students received flight training under Federal Aviation Administration rules and, upon successful completion, receive an FAA private pilot license. Most students completed IF F with approximately 45-50 hours offlight time,” Ackerman said.

Under AFS, the 557 ITS will train approximately 550 students fora total flying time of 13,750 hours.

“Airspace use in and around the Academy airfield will remain about the same when compared to that used in the past year,” the colonel said.

AETC is in the process ofsetting up an Initial Flight Screening location for Reserve Officer Training Candidates and Officer draining School commissioned pilot candidates at a location yet to be determined. That program is modeled after AFS. v

Above; Luis Montiel, an EmbryRiddle University flight commander, helps 2nd Lts. Joe Elam and Andy Rule in the U.S. Air Force Academy’s introductory flighttraining program.

(Photo by Ken Wright)

At graduation, you wanted to put the Academy

in your rearview mirror

BUT TODAY, YOU REALIZE THE IMPORTANT ROLE THAT THE AIR FORCE ACADEMY PLAYED IN YOUR LIFE. In its short history, the Academy has established a tradition of producing quality leaders for the Air Force and the nation - leaders with integrity, character, and the moral courage to do what is right in the most demanding situations. This tradition continues today and will into the future.

One of the most effective ways for you to assist the Academy in continuing this tradition is through a planned gift. Gift planning is the process of carefully selecting the best methods and assets for making a gift, such as cash, stocks, bonds, real estate, life insurance, trusts, and bequests. A planned gift enables you to assist USAFA in its mission while also reducing your burden of income, capital gains or estate taxes.

The Association of Graduates development team can help you with everything from simple bequests to gifts of retirement plan assets, real property, appreciated securities, and the complete range of life income gifts, including charitable remainder trusts, and pooled income funds.

For more information, contact Sean Pieri

at (719) 472-0300 or sean.pieri@usafa.af.mil

It seems like every day somewhere in the world an Academy grad is recognized in the news for an outstanding achievement 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.

Hamel, ’72, nominated to head space center

Maj. Gen. Michael A. Hamel, ’72, has been nominated to command the Space and Missiles Systems Center in California.

Hamel, whose rank would be elevated to lieutenant general ifthe U.S. Senate approves his nomination, has spent most ofhis 32-year career in missile and space programs.

Hamel currently serves as commander of the 14th Air Force, a major element of the Air Force Space Command at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.

The command now conducts missile launches, controls more than 100 military satellites—including spy craft that can spot missile launches virtually anywhere in the world—and helps train Air Force space operations personnel.

Hamel’s first assignment on graduation from the Air Force Academy in 1972 was as staff development planner for Space and Missile Systems at the Los Angeles base.

Lyon receives prestigious award

Retired Maj. Gen. William Lyon recendy received the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Distinguished Public Service Award for his continued service to the nation following his retirement. Part of that is his support for Operation Smile. The group provides free reconstructive surgery to children and young adults worldwide. It has been involved in

providing surgery for the children ofIraq and Afghanistan, and has worked to train Iraqi surgeons in the latest medical techniques.

“Your service has made a difference to people around the world,” Myers said during the award presentation.

Lyon stood with his wife, Willa Dean, as Myers recited the general’saccomplishments. In addition to helping fund Operation Smile, Lyon also endowed a professorship in ethics at the U.S. Air Force Academy, the first such position in the military academies. He also works with the Academy’s Research and Development Institute, which funds visiting professors to theschool in Colorado Springs, Colo. (Courtesy of American Forces Press Service)

Faucher, ’72, recognized by Knights of Columbus

The Texas State Council of the Knights of Columbus recently awardedthe “Family of the Year” award to the family of Bill and Kathryn Faucher, ’72.

The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic men’s fraternal, charitable and social organization with more than 83,000 members

in the State of Texas. The Faucher family was selected following the December 2004 award as the “Family of the Year” for the Archdiocese of San Antonio. The award is based on the total involvement in their church and community. Faucher’s generosity and unselfishness was demonstrated by his donation of a kidney to a family member who suffers from a kidney disease.

Looney, ’72, takes command of AETC Gen. William R. Looney III, ’72, became the commander of Air Education and Training Command June 17.

Gen. John P. Jumper, Air Force chief of staff, presided at the flightline ceremony, which more than 1,200 people attended.

Looney arrived at AETC after commanding the Aeronautical Systems Center at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. He also served as commander of the Electronic Systems Center at Hanscom AFB, Mass.; 14th Air Force at VandenbergAFB, Calif.; the SpaceWarfare Center at SchrieverAFB, Colo.; the 1st Fighter Wing at Langley AFB, Va.; and the 33rd FighterWing at Eglin AFB, Fla. As commander of AETC, General Looney

is responsible for recruiting, training and educating Airmen. His command includes Air Force Recruiting Service, two numbered air forces and Air University. The command comprises 13 bases, more than 66,000 activeduty Airmen and 15,000 civilians. (Courtesy ofAETC/PA)

Schwartz, ’73, nominated to command TRANSCOM

President George W. Bush has nominated Lt. Gen. Norton A. Schwartz, ’73, for the rank of general and to command U.S. Transportation Command.

General Schwartz is currently serving as the Joint Staff director in Washington D.C. A 1973 graduate ofthe U.S. Air Force Academy, General Schwarz is also an alumnus of the National War College, a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, and a 1994 Fellow ofMassachusetts Institute ofTechnology’s Seminar XXI. He is a command pilot with more than 4,200 flying hours in a variety of aircraft. General Schwarz is a former commander of the Special Operations Command—Pacific, as well as Alaskan Command, Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense

Command region, and the 11 th Air Force. (Courtesy ofTRANSCOM News Service)

Bullard, ’96, appointed as White House Fellow

Capt. Rodney Bullard, ’96, has been appointed by President Bush to serve as a White House Fellow in 2005-2006. Bullard holds a B.S. in Legal Studies from the United States Air Force Academy and a J.D. from Duke University Law School. While at Duke University, Bullard was selected to the Dean’s Advisory Council and spearheaded Duke University’s involvement in the American Bar Association. Upon completion oflaw school, Bullard joined the United States Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps serving as an Area Defense Counsel and most recently, as a Circuit Trial Counsel.

The White House Fellows Program is one of the nation’s most prestigious programs for leadership and public service. Selection as a White House Fellow is highly competitive and based on a record of remarkable professional achievement, evidence of leadership skills, a strong commitment to public service, and the knowledge and skills necessary to

contribute successfully at the highest levels of the federal government.

Scott Hines, ’92, was a national finalist in the selection process.

Lewis, ’89, guides RTL to new heights of success

Richard Lewis, ’89, owner of RTL Networks Inc., a small information technologysales and service company based near Denver, Colo., recently guided his company to a notable contract with the Air Force. According to the Air Force Outreach Program Office, RTL Networks was awarded “one of the largest Cisco Systems Equipment Maintenance contracts in the Air Force.” The contract supports the mission of the 50th Space Wing at Schriever AFB, Colo., which is responsible for command and control of more than 140 Department ofDefense satellites.

“My Air Force background and training were immensely helpful in the establishment of RTL Networks and continue to serve me well in the day-to-day operations of the company,” Lewis said. T

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:

A Checkpoints magazine

A Find graduate and member contact information and profiles on the AOG Web site

A www.usafa.org

A Class reunions

A Nationwide graduate chapters

A Civilian employment programs

A War memorial maintenance

A Historical record keeping

A Merchandise, including cadet-issue clothing

A Cadet sabre rental and purchase

A Scholarships for dependents

A 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:

A More than 30 cadet clubs and organizations

A Internships at NASA, Congress, NATO and the State Department

A Cadet international cultural immersion experiences

A Cadet national collegiate competitions

A 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.

LEE ADAMS, ’63

pilot’s remains recovered AFTER NEARLY 40 YEARS

Department ofDefense POW/Missing Personnel Office

The remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, havebeen identified and were returned to his family for burial.

He is Air Force 1st Lt. Lee A. “Larry” Adams,’63, ofWillits, Calif. A memorial service with full military honors was held at Beale Air Force Base, Calif, on June 1.

On April 19, 1966, Adams was attacking enemy targets in Quang Binh Province, North Vietnam, when he rolled his F-105 “Thunderchief” in on the target. As other pilots in the flight watched, his plane failed to pull out ofthe dive, crashed and exploded.

U.S. specialists from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) conducted a number ofinvestigations as they sought information on Adams’s loss. In September 1993, joint U.S.-Vietnamese team members interviewed three villagers who said they witnessed the shoot down in 1966. They led the team to a supposed crash site, but no aircraft debris or human remains were found. Later, another informant turned over a skeletal fragment he had found near the site of the crash.

In November 2004, following two more interviews in 1994 and 1998 whichfurther indicated officials were close to the crash site, JPAC investigators felt ready to excavate the suspected burial and crash sites. Unfortunately, they found neither aircraft debris nor other material evidence. However, a villager living nearby gave the team a fragment of a wristwatch and a signal mirror he claimed to have recovered from the site. Investigators were relieved to find the items were consistent with those issued to, or used by, U.S. military aviators in the mid-1960s.

Scientists ofthe JPAC andthe Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory then used mitochondrial DNA in the skeletal fragment as one of the forensic tools to identify Adams.

Of the 88,000 Americans missing in action from all conflicts, 1,833 are from the Vietnam War, with 1,397 of those within the country ofVietnam. Another 750 Americans have been accounted for in Southeast Asia since the end of the war. Of the Americans identified, 524 are from within Vietnam. Hi

Frederick V. Malmstrom, '64, Visiting Scholar for Honor

From the 1960s through the 1980s, ALL MAJOR SERVICE ACADEMIES’ HONOR SYSTEMS HAD ENTERED INTO A SERIES OF SOMETIMES CONTENTIOUS BUT ALWAYS SPIRITED LEGAL BATTLES. ANY NORMAL CIVILIAN UNIVERSITY MIGHT WELL HAVE ADDED UP THE COSTS AND BENEFITS OF TRYING TO BALANCE THE WORTH OF AN HONOR SYSTEM VERSUS ITS LEGALITIES AND DECIDED TO SURRENDER THE WHOLE PROCESS OF ENFORCING HONESTY TO THE courts. However, the service acadEMIES WERE NOT NORMAL UNIVERSITIES.

The Dartmouth Incident Lets pause to compare theAir ForceAcademy’s honor problems to the discouraging cheating incident at Dartmouth College. Dartmouth had long prided itself on its academic honor principle. In early February 2000, visiting professor Rex Dwyer soon determined that 78 of his studentshad deliberately plagiarized a computer science class take-home assignment. So Dwyer forwarded his charges to the dean of faculty, and 63 students were scheduled to face honor disciplinary hearings (Marnell, 2000). After a cursory investigation, the dean claimed he could not prove plagiarism because he could not determine who had actually operated the computers. The entire honor disciplinary action against suspected cheaters was dropped. In summary, the dean hadavoided the honor issue altogether and likewise dodged a public relations disaster (Wallace-Wells, 2000).

Alas for Dwyer, the matter was far from over. The backlash was both prompt and nasty. Students and their parents threatened legal action against Dwyer and Dartmouth, and students trashed him in course critiques. Dwyer hadhad enough. He resigned from his computer science teaching duties, and his teaching contract was not renewed (Clayton, 2000).

The Academy Legal Arsenal

Since 1973, the honor system had been on the legal defensive. Michael T. Rose, ’69, re-entered this important contest in 1975, this time as a civilian attorney. Rose sought access to cadet honor files under freedom of information rules. Citing privacy rules, the Academy countered Rose by filing a federal suit. The Air Forces position on privacy was first upheld and appealed through the U.S. 2nd Circuit Court, argued to the U.S. Supreme Court Oct. 8, 1975, and ruled April 21, 1976 in favor ofthe Air Force. The summary: Service academy honor files are ruled to have privacy protection as equal to those of medical and personnel information. Honor files are exempted only if identifying information is sanitized. The lesson: In sharp contrast to the Dartmouth affair, all U.S. service academies were well armed to defend theirhonor systems, morally, legally, and above all, budgetarily.

Honor Sanction Reform Begins

Starting in 1988, the honor system formally adopted the concept of “graduated sanetions.” From that time onward, sanctions against fourth- and third-class cadets were more forgiving than those against first- and second-class cadets on the presumption that upperclassmen had had sufficient longevity to learn the concepts ofhonor. The honor hearing process was also divided into the three categories of “self-reported,” “admitted,” and “non-admitted.” A true self-reported honor violation was, henceforth, a case where a cadet with no chance of otherwise being discovered turned himself in. “Admitted” were those cases where a cadet immediately admitted to an honor violation when confronted. Henceforth, “admitted” and “self-reported” cases could go through an accelerated hearing and sanctions process, much like a legal pleabargaining. “Non-admitted” cases were those which, as before, went through the normal due process ofinvestigation and hearing.

Probation—The Punitive Phase

In 1986 the remedies available to the honor sanctions board were yet again expanded. But first, a case legal adviser and a base legal adviser were added to honor cases. Disenrollment remained an option, as was suspension. However, cadets who were

found in violation could also be handed tours, confinements, loss of rank, suspensions from athletic teams, and a potpourri of other penalties. It was not unusual for a cadet found in violation to be handed 120 punishment tours and loss ofvacation leave. Penalties were weighed in comparison to the seriousness of the violation. Hence, there arose a decided attempt to “make the punishment fit the crime.” For instance, a cadet who self-admitted might be given a lesser penalty than one who was otherwise discovered. And, in tune with the legal system, in 1990 the formal term “honor probation” was introduced along with a rigidly structured correction procedure. As always, no cadet is offered probation twice.

Probation—The Rehabilitative Phase

In 1992, the concept ofprobation itselftook yet another turn. The previous system of loading down the offending cadet with tours and restrictions was deemed inappropriate. So, probation was revised into a “learning experience.” Henceforth, if a cadet were offered probation, he or she would have to go through a lengthy rehabilitative process (Wakin, 2005), which finally became fully integrated by 1996. To be sure, the cadet would still lose all rank and privileges, but the rehabilitative process would instead include assigning the cadet a mentor, having the cadet meet numerous counseling progress milestones, submission of a written research project, and the maintenance of a regular diary-journal. As a final step, the cadet presents to his squadron the lessons he or shehas learned during probation.

Any cadet who has experienced rehabilitative probation will attest it is a most humbling and unpleasant process. About one in five cadets fail to complete probation, having decided that rehabilitation is simply not worth the effort. For those cadets who have completed probation, their testimonial evidence suggests it is a success. But the basic hard question remains: Does probation really work? This answer lies decades ahead, for we must make validating follow-up studies on these future graduates to determine whether they actually have become officers of unimpeachable integrity.

Since 1996, there has been little change in the formal administration ofthe Honor System.

The Center for Character Development is Created

In the continuing attempt to consolidate the areas of ethics and honor, the Center for Character Development came into existence in 1992. Character development has a spiritually—if not legally—equal status with the other three areas of cadet education, namely academics, athletics and military training. The center is quite diverse, as it employs a chaplain, drug and alcohol educators, and a salaried visiting professor. Approximately half its funding is non-appropriated, administered through the Association ofGraduates. Today, character development itself is subdivided into three divisions: excellence, character and leadership, and honor. The first two divisions are largely responsible for teaching and instruction in the areas ofcharacter.

The Honor Division

The honor division is primarily responsible for enforcement of the code. The division is well prepared to handle large-scale honor violation incidents, including anything as gigantic as the 1965 near-meltdown. The center has assigned a staff of 30 or more full-time military and civilian personnel, additional reservists, and volunteer researchers (including yours truly). Of the full-time staff, two officers and two noncommissioned officers are assigned solely to honor system enforcement duties. And, each of the 36 cadet squadrons has two cadet representatives. During a four-yearperiod, each USAFA cadet receives more than 100 hours offormal honor instruction. Compare this to the introductory 12 hours of basic honor instruction received by the first six graduating classes.

The honor division routinely processes about 120 honor cases every year, with about 40 of those cadets eventually found in violation of the Honor Code. A quick check of the arithmetic reveals that during a four-year stay, about one in 10 cadets will face a formal honor investigation. This ratio has remained remarkably constant over the past 50 years.

The 1992 Naval Academy Cheating Incident

In 1992 it was the Naval Academy’s turn to experience a well publicizedcheating incident. In December 1992, at least one midshipman managed to obtain a copy of theElectrical

Engineering 311 final examination. He began selling copies to classmates for the market price of $50. In the end, 134 middies were implicated in the incident, 62 found guilty of honor violations by the honor board, and 24 disenrolled. The USNA incident may have paralleled the 1965 USAFA cheating scandal in some ways, but there were unsettling differences. First, the USNA incident took an agonizing 16 months to resolve. Second, and more importandy, there remained nagging evidence to suggest that many unidentified midshipmen knew ofthe violations but said nothing. Those who reported themselves did not graduate. Those who did not report themselves graduated (Gantar, 1996; Valentine, 1994).

The System Makes Cheating More Difficult

Academy academic security was a hard taught lesson. After duty hours, the academic building requires coded access. Each academic department requires additional coded access, and all faculty also have at last their own locked offices. Access to faculty computers also has a bewildering hurdle of firewallsand access codes.

In 2004, cadets were required to use only “dumb” calculators (which could not store information) for graded review examinations. To discourage passing of answers from major examinations, third- and fourth-class cadets have common graded review periods. As a

final touch, beginning in 1998, cadets have had deadbolt locks installed on all their dormitory doors. The deadbolts serve a dual purpose guarding against both sexual assault and theft. Nowadays, cadets can and will be disciplined for not locking their doors.

Nothing Trumps Politics

Loyalty can easily trump honesty. However, nothing invites political inspections like the honor system. Probably no other service academy training has received such longitudinal scrutiny, deserved or otherwise. Since 1960, the changes to the honor system have been both numerous and bewildering to insiders and outsiders—there havebeen no fewer than 16 formal top-to-bottom reviews ofthe USAF Academy honor system, ranging from internal reports all the way up to those directed by Congress. And, as thisarticle goes to press, I have been informed by reliable sources there is in the works yet another top-to-bottom honor system review, this time mandated by the Air Staff.

And since 1961 there have been, I tabulated, no fewer than 115 significant changes to the administration of the honor system, ranging from “new, improved” honor education to major overhauls ofits legal procedures. Oftentimes, changes have cycled in and out with almost tedious regularity. Investigative committees are added and are then deleted and then recreated. Officers are appointed as board

voting members and then reduced to nonvoting members. Sanctions are added and then deleted and then reinstated,... etc. (Ball, 1997; Berry, 2005). Any dizzied observer would be challenged to believe these endless alterations to the honor system are anything but the same tiresome old wine in new bottles.

Only Yesterday

The Cadet D Case.

In April 2001, Cadet First Class D was accused by classmates of cheating. It was only in subsequent statements that Cadet D was tried and found in violation a mere eight days prior to graduation. The honor hearingquickly degenerated into a nasty contest ofpersonality clashes, and after days of deliberation, Cadet D was found guilty (much like the Martha Stewart case) of lying in subsequent statements. The original allegation of cheating was quickly resolved and discarded. Indeed, many Academy staff and cadets felt the case should never havebeen brought to an honor hearing in the first place. This case took 24 months for ultimate case resolution, and in December 2003 the secretary of the Air Force personally reversed the disenrollment decision, andCadet D was commissioned in August 2004. Parents of the accused disclosed they spent more than $100,000 to appeal the case (Kissinger, 2004). Undoubtedly it cost the Air Force twice that amount to contest this case. Legal battles do not come cheap.

The Cadet E Case.

The honor system was put to yet another major test in 2000 when Cadet E found himself disenrolled for academic deficiency. The case was unusual because Cadet E had previously met two honor boards regarding numerous suspicious absences from class and was found “not in violation” in both instances.

Cadet E s claim was that his disenrollment was actually a grudge match between him and his professor, and it was the extraordinary time he spent contesting his two cases which caused his grades to slip. He appealed his disenrollment to the Secretary of the Air Force and was a year later reinstated and commissioned (Diedrich, 2003).

Reinstatement of cadets by higher authority is not all that unusual. Dozens of cadets throughout the past 50 years have had their disenrollment cases reversed on appeal to either the superintendent or the SECAF. However, Cadet E s case garnered sufficient publicity to initiate yet another report personally directed by the chiefofstaffhimself, The 2001 Honor Climate Assessment. Regrettably, the report was not a product ofAir Force research experts but rather a product of inexperienced employees of a beltway consultant firm.

The Most Recent Honor Reviews

The Honor Climate Assessment is noteworthy if only for its expense and length, in excess of $200,000 and 200 pages. While well inten-

tioned, the report’s scientific methodology was fatally flawed. It violated nearly every rule of responsible scientific research (Malmstrom, 2002). The result was that its conclusions were yet again unremarkable and largelyunfounded: (1) return the system to the cadets, (2) emphasize honesty over loyalty, and (3) increase the amount of honor instruction for both faculty and cadets.

Flawed at it was, one well taken Honor Climate Assessment point was the belated and chronic recognition that the time delays between hearings and case resolutions were excessive, a complaint first lodged in 1993 (Ball, 1997). Many honor cases now take well more than six months to resolve. Since the legal system perpetually watches over the shoulder of the honor system, we can still expect exceptional cases to continue to drag on for months and even years. Indeed, nearly all delays in timely processing of honor cases don’t come from the honor office but from the Academy’s own legal staff(Berry, 2005).

A second rediscovery ofthe Honor Climate Assessment was the suspicion of increasing toleration among cadets. Again, this problem has been stated and confirmed many times (Kinevan, 2001; Craigie, 2000; Scott, 2005; West & Malmstrom, 2001).

In 2005, yet another report, Assessment and Recommendations Concerning Character Development, was commissioned from the venerable Josephson Institute of Ethics.

This report was spurred by multiple issues of cadet behaviors: sexual assault, alcohol abuse, and honor violations. At a cost of $82,000 (Zubeck, 2005) the review made many of the old and familiar recommendations for change: revamping honor instruction, integration of character training into real-life situations, and reorganization of theCharacter Development Center. Once again, the conclusions of The Assessment and Recommendations, like its 15 predecessors, were ofunknown validity.

It’s the Toleration, Stupid!

First, on the downside, our own objective research of more than 2,050 service academy graduates from 1959 through 2002 (West & Malmstrom, 2003) confirms that toleration has been on the steady rise at all service academies ever since 1959. Toleration of unethical behavior of others is a chronic problem, and it seems to be the trigger for all other honor violations. Oddly though, toleration at service academies has historically been given a lesser penalty than active lying, cheating and stealing.

Second, our longitudinal research clearly indicates that honor systems are inherently unstable (West & Malmstrom, 2003). Our aeronautical engineering colleagues might call this property “neutral stability.” Such systems cannot be relied upon to correct themselves. If such systems are to function as intended, they require constant monitoring and supervision.

Since 1951, the seven or more major cheating incidents at all three major service academies have strongly demonstrated this instability— and so do our computer models. It only takes one or two rotten apples to infect the entire system—and quickly. But then instability is a characteristic of any military training system. No commandant in his right mind would permit a military training system to run heedlessly amok. The fourth-class system will collapse with hazing abuses ifit weren’t constantly monitored, and so will prisoner abuse at the Abu Ghraib prison.

The Honor System is Not Cheap

Regardless of the costs and associated legal nuisances involved in maintaining a viable honor system, all service academies (and their respective alumni associations) have been equally prepared to meet the challenge. The procedural process of initiating and processing an honor hearing is breathtaking. When a cadet is referred to an honor hearing, no fewer than 14 legal forms and procedures must be completed.

The manpower invested in a cadet honor hearing is equally as breathtaking. Besides the eight members of the honor hearing board, a certified court reporter, officer-mentor and base legal advisor attend all hearings. Full honor board hearings typically last for three to four hours, although some hearings have continued for days.

One recentlydeparted cadet took full advantage of his constitutional due process guarantees. In trying the full and careful patience of the honor system and during his (nearly) four cadet years, he faced six separate honor hearings. Cadet F was found not in violation four times. On his second honor board he was found in violation but was granted and completed probation. On his sixth honor board, he was again found in violation of the honor system, and he was disenrolled a bare eight days prior to graduation (Berry, 2004).

Graduates Strongly Endorse the Honor System

On the upside, my past 20 years of independent research overwhelmingly shows that nearly all service academy graduates from 1959-2002 consider honor the most important value they learned as cadets/midshipmen. Honor outranks all other admirable values

like leadership, loyalty, self-discipline, athletics—and especially academics. Graduates never consider an academy education a purely academic experience. Moreover, graduates—whether or not they ever violated the code—strongly support keeping the honor system intact (Malmstrom, 2000).

Integrity is the Gold Standard

And in case we forget, the leadoff core value at USAFA uncompromisingly reads, “Integrity First.” The honor system is perhaps the sole military program that has sternly resisted falling under the least common UCMJ denominator. The honor system has consistently held that present and future officers must hold themselves to a higher standard of honesty than that required by the letter ofthe law. Regardless ofwhether any of our elected and appointed superiors may be lying, cheating, stealing and looking the other way, Academy graduates are not expected to yield to lesser ethical standards. I trust the sad, sad case of Lt. Col. Oliver North will remain an isolated exception.

The clear research conclusion of character development strongly suggests that integrity will be brushed aside unless we are constantly reminded of its necessity. This sentiment was expressed by an 18th century British parliamentarian far better than I may have written in this series of articles: all that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.”—Edmund Burke 9

References

The Air Force Academy Honor Climate Assessment Task Force on the Honor Code and System (August, 2001). [Contracted through SAIC]. Washington, DC: Report to the ChiefofStaff, United States Air Force.

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

Berry, Thomas (2005). [Deputy Director of Center for Character Development] Personal communication.

Clayton, Mark (March 21, 2000). “Dust-up at Dartmouth.” The Christian Science Monitor.

Craigie, John A. (2000).[Former 1951 USMA Honor Representative.] Personal communication.

Department ofthe Air Force v. Rose, 425 U.S. 352 (1976).

Diedrich, John (January 01, 2003). “Honor under review at the Air Force Academy.” The [Colorado Springs] Gazette.

Gantar, Jeffrey & Tom Patten (1996). A question ofhonor. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House.

Josephson, Michael (January 20, 2004). Assessment and Recommendations Concerning Character Development at the United States Air Force Academy—Report to the Superintendent. Los Angeles: Josephson Institute ofEthics.

Kinevan, Marcus (2005). [Former chairman Department of Law] Personal communication.

Kissinger, Meg (August 1, 2004). “From outcast to officer: Fight with academy ends in exoneration.” The MilwaukeeJournal Sentinel.

Malmstrom, F. (September, 2000). “Study evidence shows support for honor systems.”

Checkpoints 29(2), 42-43

Malmstrom, F. (January 4, 2002). Reply to The Honor Climate Assessment Task Force on the Honor Code and System. Commandant ofCadets: Internal Document.

Marnell, Andrew (March 13, 2000). The Dartmouth Review.

Scott, Winfield (2004). [Former USAFA Superintendent] Personal Communication.

Valentine, P. (April 29, 1994). “Two dozen expelled in Naval Academy cheating scandal.” The Washington Post.

Wakin, Malham (2005). [Former chairman Department of Philosophy] Personal communication.

Wallace-Wells, Benjamin (March 13, 2000). The Dartmouth.

West, J. & F. Malmstrom (July 7, 2001). Service academy honor codes as a public good. Paper presented to the Western Economic Association, San Francisco, CA.

West, J. & F. Malmstrom (July 16, 2003). Toleration of Dishonesty and the Service Academy Honor Codes. Paper presented to the Western Economic Association, Denver, CO.

Zubeck, Pam (February 12, 2005). “AFA ethics need repair, studysays.” The [Colorado Springs] Gazette, pp 1,15.

^ As cadets and graduates ofthe 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.

Drew, wa/

STORY AND PHOTO COURTESY OF NASA

LT. COL. ALVIN DREW, ’84, DIDN’T ALWAYS WANT TO BE AN ASTRONAUT, BUT AFTER WATCHING THE APOLLO 7 MISSION, HE KNEW WHAT HE WANTED TO DO WITH HIS LIFE. AT THE RIPE OLD AGE OF 5 1/2, DREW DECIDED HE WANTED TO FLY IN SPACE.

Drew was born and raised in Washington. He credits his parents and teachers with his success. They, according to Drew, had to suffer me most during my growing up, but they also had the greatest influence. They impressed on me, not only that I could do anything in life I wanted, but that I also had an obligation to pursue things that inspired me.”

Drews flying career began at the United States Air Force Academy. He received his commission as a second lieutenant in May 1984. He completed undergraduate helicopter pilot training and earnedhis wings at Fort Rucker, Ala., in March 1985.

His initial assignment was to the HH-3E helicopter flying combat rescue. He transitioned to the MH-60G helicopter and was assigned to the Air Force Special Operations Command. He flew combat missions in operationsJust Cause, Desert Shield/Desert Storm and Provide Comfort. He completed Air Force fixed-wing qualification in April 1993 and the United States Naval Test Pilot School in June 1994. He has commanded two flight test units and served on the Air Combat Command Staff. He is a command pilot with 3,000 hours flying time in more than 30 types ofaircraft.

In July 2000, Drew was selected as a mission specialist by NASA and reported for training in August 2000. Following the completion of two years of training and evaluation, he was assigned technical duties in the astronaut office station operations branch, Houston.He will serve in technical assignments until assigned to a space flight.

Throughout his career, Drew has been awarded a number ofspecial honors; Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster; Air Medal; AerialAchievement Medal with five Oak LeafClusters; Air Force Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters; Air Force Achievement Medal; Air Force Outstanding Unit Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters;

Combat Readiness Medal with five Oak Leaf Clusters; National Defense Service Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Southwest Asia Service Medal with three Oak LeafClusters.

Drew has worked hard throughout to achieve his goals and advises young people to, understand any goal is attainable, but it becomes a matter of how hard you have to work at it.

“The sooner you know what you want to do or want to be in life, and the sooner you start working at it, the more you can spread out the work, so no one challenge is insurmountable. But, no matter what your pursuits in life, having good habits in studying, staying fit and healthy, and developing good character will always aid you on your journey.” HI

Blasting through the hazy late morning sky, the Space Shuttle Discovery soars from Launch Pad 39A.

With a little luck, Alvin Drew will findhimself in the driver’s seat during a future shuttle launch. (Photo courtesy of NASA Kennedy Space Center)

By Heather Beer

The press continues to report a severe problem ofreligious intolerance at the Air Force Academy. Charges range from religious insensitivity and slurs to proselytizing and claims that evangelical Christianity has become the “official religion” at USAFA. While the Academy has taken aggressive steps to correct the spiritual landscape, the process is unavoidably slow.

In early August 2004, two months after his arrival from Hickam AFB, Chaplain Michael Whittington met with Academy Superintendent Lt. General John Rosa to discuss incidents of religious insensitivity and charges of religious bias. Since that day, Whittington has worked on little else.

Upon his arrival at USAFA, the chaplain was briefed on a number of incidents involving religious insensitivity, which the Academy had previously addressed and continued to track. In March 2004, there was the incident of fliers promoting The Passion of the Christ movie being placed at cadet’s chairs in Mitchell Hall, and a holiday advertisement published in the Dec 12, 2003 AcademySpirit newspaper, signed by several faculty and staff members, both of which caused concern. The 2004 cadet and staff and faculty climate surveys had revealed areas of concern as well. Other incidents relating to slurs, jokes and lack of accommodation were brought to the new chaplains attention.

Following his meeting, Rosa and Whittington assembled a team to further investigate these incidents, and they noticed a developing pattern of insensitivity. The team recognized

the seriousness of the challenge and recommended several corrective actions. By Aug. 30, Whittington briefed Rosa on a proposed remedy, a comprehensive three-phase program. This recently instituted program reflects the chaplaincy’s vision regarding the role and necessary balance ofreligious practice in the military.

The Three-Phase Program

Whittington describes the first phase of the plan as an initial training program designed to raise the level ofconsciousness ofthe entire base. The intention is to say “we do have a concern here, let’s look at it.” The initial program is called RSVP, which stands for Respecting the Spiritual Values ofAll People. Phase two is designed as an in-depth training program on world religions and goes into the roots of various religions, their faith tenets, and what is offensive to them Phase three is an application phase that will challenge the cadets to apply what they’ve learned to command and leadership scenarios.” This phase will be particularly geared toward helping military officers understand their roles and obligations in religious accommodation.

The chaplaincy is responsible for the first phase of the RSVP program. The Academy’s plans and programs office is responsible for the next two phases. Whittington’s staff will continue to provide the expertise of their diverse group ofchaplains.

Another key figure in the program is Col. Debra Gray, ’80, vice commandant of the training wing. Gray is responsible for the culture and climate training at the Academy. She was the point person for the sexual assault training and became the point person for the religious training as well. Gray was very instrumental in devising this sub-campaign.

“The RSVP training program is considered a ‘sub’ campaign plan under the rubric ofthe broader, more strategic ‘culture and climate’ campaign,” Whittington said. “It includes sexual assault awareness, religious respect, alcohol awareness, suicide prevention, etc.”

While religious insensitivity at the Academymay not be a problem for the majority, it is a problem for the minority and thus it becomes a leadership issue. “The Air Force Academy is developing leaders of character

and it’s a four-year process. Cadets don’t go in one day as a student and come out the next day a second lieutenant. It’s a developmental process,” Whittington says. “Part of that developmental process is learning to understand that even though things may not be a problem for them individually, they need to be aware ofwhat’s going on around them, the people who are working for them and with them, and that they’ve taken an oath to support and defend the Constitution. This is about developing leaders.”

Whittington related an experience he had while instructing part of a course for new Pacific Air Forces squadron commanders at Hickam AFB. “I had a major in the class once say, ‘Chaplain, I don’t need this briefing from you because I’m not a believer. I’m not religious.’ I stopped and said, ‘This is not about you. This is about the people that you’ll be commanding. You do need this briefing. This is not about your faith or whether you believe in God or don’t believe in God. This is about all ofthose airmen who’ll be working in your squadron who do believe—and you need to know what the chaplains bring to the table. You need to understand how you need to accommodate their religious needs.’ Really, the same thing is true at the Academy. These cadets and faculty and airmen are all here for the samereason. We’re here as a whole—as a complete team—to develop leaders ofcharacter. Part and parcel to developing leaders of character is developing leaders who respect everyone’s faith and their beliefs.”

The RSVP curriculum stresses exactly that—this is not about religion, it is about respect. Respect for the religious rights of others, maintains good order and discipline and promotes unit cohesiveness. Facilitators remind participants that these directives are an official part of Air Force regulations and the U.S. Constitution. As guaranteed in the First Amendment, the government cannot establish any religion. Ofcourse, an individual doesn’t stop being religious just because he or she joins the military or works for the government, so participants are further reminded that the First Amendment grants each and every person the right to freely exercise their religion and that Department ofDefense and Air Force policies require religious accom-

modation. According to USAFA law professor and JAG officer Col. (Ret.) Howard Eggers, spiritual health is fundamental to Air Force personnel and spirituality is considered as much a force multiplier as physical and mental strength. Air Force regulations provide an official definition of religion that includes groups who affirm the existence of a supreme being and groups that do not. The plurality ofreligions in todays military requires toleration and respect for diverse religious traditions.

The objective ofthe Academy’s training program then is to encourage participants to go beyond mere toleration of other persons’ religious tradition and show respect for each person’s First Amendment rights. Additionally, theJoint Ethics Regulation prohibits use of one’s official position for the endorsement of any enterprise, or in a manner that could imply that the government sanctions or endorses his or her personal activities. Proselytizing declarations of faith are inappropriate, posting religious items is restricted to bulletin boards only, declarations of faith are prohibited in official e-mail, and their official positions may not be used to promote Special Programs in Religious Education, another Academy religious education program.

Everyone at USAFA is reminded that they are an integral part of the mission and that mission success requires all individuals be made to feel they belong—regardless oftheir religious affiliation.

“Spirituality is part and parcel to leadership,” Whittington said. “It is, of course, the airman’s decision to include spirituality in his or her life, but I can tell you that I think it is essential. True, it’s not one of the Academy’s four pillars, but it is the foundation of the pillar we call character. There is a lot that falls under the rubric of character—the heart of which is spirituality. Spirituality is a very broad term. If you understand what spirituality is all about, you know that it strikes at the core of who we are as a human beings. There is the physical part of us, and I believe there is a spiritual part of us. That’s my mandate as an Air Force chaplain to help cadets understand their spirituality—the bedrock ofcharacter.”

Myriad Allegations

Whittington also addressed several of the specific charges that have beenleveled against the Academy.

Among the allegations of religious insensitivity is a charge stemming from a report by a group ofgraduate students from Yale Divinity School after they observed chaplains during Basic Cadet Training. “Media reports have distorted the significance of this memo without knowing the Air Force Instruc

tion that governs the Air Force chaplain service,” Whittington said.

“To begin with,” Whittington said, “It needs to be clear that the team from the Yale Divinity School consisted ofsix students and one professor, Dr. Kristen Leslie—none of whom were familiar with the military or the chaplaincy. According to my predecessor, Chaplain Colonel Steve Sill, the Yale Student Team was primarily invited to provide the students with ‘field experience’ and evaluate the chaplains’ pastoral care.”

Leslie had previouslyhelped the Academyby providing the chaplains with extra training on sexual assault. “That [Leslie’s training] was such a big hit with the chaplains that they apparently worked out this arrangement with Dr. Leslie to bring her graduate students to observe BCT. At the end oftheir sixday visit they prepared a three-page memo, and out of that memo there was one paragraph that talked about statements reportedly made by chaplains during the worship services.”

These alleged comments during the worship service havebeen a matter of controversy in the media. Whittington stressed the importance of the independence of chaplains during these voluntary worship services. “The Air Force doesn’t censor chaplains duringworship services. As the senior staff chaplain, I can’t walk down the hallway to my Catholic priest’s office and say this is what you’ll preach at your mass,’ because every chaplain is ordained by his or her denomination. The Air Force Instruction requires them—requires me—to adhere to the tenets ofour respective faith,” Whittington said. “So if, indeed, the Air Force told me what to do during my worship service, or I told someone else then that would basically be establishing a state church—a clear violation ofthe Constitution. Without the free exercise of religion, the establishment clause of the first amendment would be in jeopardy. If I censor chaplains during their voluntarily attended worship services, we are dangerously close to establishing a state church. So we have the freedom—these cadets have the freedom—to voluntarily attend worship services, to voluntarily attend whateverthe Chapel provides to meet their spiritual needs. They have the freedom to bow their head before they have their meals and say a private prayer. They have the freedom to read the Bible in their dormitory room. And they have the freedom to gather with other cadets who want to study the Bible in thedorms. Our constitutional freedoms belong to all—atheists, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, Catholics, liturgical Protestants, and evangelical Christians. The Air Force, in general, andthe chaplain service, in particular,

facilitates every airmans religious rights. I am pastor to some but chaplain to all,” Whittington said.

Another allegation recently appeared in the L.A. Times and suggests that evangelical Christianity is the “official religion of the Air Force Academy” or that it is favored over all other religious traditions. “I think that’s unfounded,” Whittington said. “At the Academy we have Jewish services every Shabbat, every Friday evening, led by Rabbi Wechsler. We have Eastern Orthodox masses led by Father Stefan Close every Sunday morning. We also have two Roman Catholic masses, led by our Catholic priests every Sunday, and we have four Protestant services conducted every Sunday. The Protestant services are liturgical (Episcopalians, Lutherans), contemporary (evangelicals), traditional (mainline Protestant), and inspirational (from the Gospel tradition).

“I can tell you that of those who attend Chapel services, the contemporary service draws about 200300. The other services’ total attendance is well over 1,000 people. From a chapel worship perspective, the allegation that evangelical Christianity is preferred is not true. Having said that,” Whittington said, “perception is reality, and we must address the concerns from those who have felt victimized and/or marginalized. Most complaints are related to a lack ofreligious accommodation resulting from Friday and Saturday training events. Of course, Friday night and Saturday day are not just significant for our Jewish cadets but also our Islamic cadets and certain Christian traditions, such as Seventh Day Adventists. We are concerned with religious disrespect, which is the very reason we’ve addressed it so aggressively.”

Whittington also addressed the challenges ofbalancing religious convictions with duties as Air Force officers. “I would advise, whether it be a cadet or a general officer, if they’re Christian, Jewish, Muslim, or no matter who they are, that they need to be careffil how they speak about theirfaith in any kind of a government setting, because it could be perceived as a misuse of their position,” he said. “That has been my advice from the very beginning, and not just at the Academy, but throughout my career.”

The chaplaincy itselfis an example ofthe kind of pluralism and respect that should exist in all areas ofthe military. “Ifanyone understands pluralism, if anyone understands facilitating everyone’s religious freedoms, if anyone understands the strength of religious diversity, it is Air Force chaplains. That’s why were here,” Whittington said. “My chaplain staff is as diverse as our Air Force. Of the 16 chaplains stationed at the Academy, we represent Judaism, Catholicism, Orthodoxy, and various

Protestant denominations—from liturgical to evangelical. We work together, and we respect each other—and that’s the model the Ar Force needs to adopt as a whole.”

As to the charge that this problem is systemic at the Academy or is a problem of leadership, the chaplain said, “Well, I’ll leave it up to our Ar Force leadership to discuss whether or not its systemic from the very beginning, my beginning, from the second of August on, and from what I’ve understood even before that, the Air Force leadership, the superintendent, commandant, dean, chaplain leadership, and so forth, have been aggressivelypursuing these concerns. These issues are cumulative. You just don’t wake up all of a sudden and say we have a huge problem and so we’re going to have this huge solution. You address several issues individually and before long you’ve got... eight, nine, ten issues that you’ve addressed and now you’re beginning to see a pattern. You don’t see a pattern overnight it takes time to develop.”

Whittington also discussed the SPIRE program in response to external complaints that groups such as the Officers’ Christian Fellowship are allowed on the base to minister to the religious needs ofcadets. “SPIRE stands for Special Programs in Religious Education, and it’s what the chapel uses for their religious education. Bases throughout the Air Force have educational programs at their chapels on a Sunday, or Saturday as the case may be. But here cadets don’t have that kind of time. So back in the mid 80s the chaplains who were here decided to have an evening period during the course of the week when the cadets could come for religious education. It’s an 80-minute segment on Monday nights, and it is part ofthe trainingwing schedule. It is voluntary—we have 19 different groups, and the groups are driven by the cadets’ needs, not by the needs of a particular chaplain or the needs ofparticular religious group in Colorado Springs. It is driven by the cadets. For example, ifa cadet says, ‘Chaplain, I would like to attend an Officer Christian Fellowship meeting, may I do that?’ If we have no OCF in SPIRE, then I would call the OCF downtown and ask them to give us someone that we can train as a SPIRE leader to have an OCF group because we have a cadet interested. We try to accommodate all of our cadet needs. For example, last year we had a Free Thinkers (atheist) group. Presently, our 19 groups represent Buddhism, Judaism and Christianity. We had over 900 cadets this year attend every Monday night. That’s nearly 25 percent. It is part of their spiritual development, which again is the bedrock ofcharacter, and it is cadet driven. t>

BEHIND THE SCENES

Changing the Culture

Whittington said when he first presented the pattern of behaviors he observed to the superintendent, Rosa andthe Academy’s senior leaders drafted plans for the way ahead. Whittington compared the challenge to turning a huge ship. “You know, it’s not a little speedboat; you just don’t turn on a dime. It takes a while to change a culture. General Rosa talks about a marathon. He says we’re at mile three or mile four now of a 26.2-mile run. Since I arrived in June of ’04 there has not been a single accommodation concern or religious disrespect issue that has come to my attention that was not addressed immediately.”

The Academy’s solutions to issues of religious respect are being institutionalized. For example, there is now a chaplain on the training wing development committee to consult on training plans. During Pinnacle, there was a concern that the culminating dinner was on the eve of the first Passover on the 23rd of April. When the chaplain brought it to the attention of the leadership, they changed the training schedule to avoid the conflict.

Between Aug. 2 and March 15, Whittington and his staff were first made aware of religious respect issues at the Academy, investigated the issues, briefed the senior staff, developed a training program, received approval from Rosa to move ahead and then trained 30 facilitators and launched phase one of their new RSVP program. By the end of May, nearly every person at the Academy had been trained in the RSVP curriculum.

During the sexual assault issue, Air Force Chief of Staff General Jumper said the Air Force Academy is a reflection of our larger society. Whittington believes that the problems of religious respect at the Academy also is inherited from the outside and is related to what seems to be a growing hostility toward evangelical Christianity in the nation as a whole. “The current religious issue at the Academy and throughout the nation seems to polarize only one segment of Christianity, those who have been called evangelical or born again,” he said. “I think that’s terribly unfair in addressing the issue and I think it’s unfair to the evangelical Christians. Every airman has the right to his or her religious freedom, and that includes evangelical Christians. Within mission

parameters, every cadet and airman have the right to express their religious beliefs, while respecting everyone’s right to believe as they choose, regardless who they are. Just as evangelical Christians must respect the rights of atheists, Jews, and Muslims, so our religious minorities must also respect the rights ofthe evangelical Christians.”

Whittington emphasized that the Air Force chaplains facilitate everyone’s religious freedoms within the constraints of the mission, of good order and discipline and unit cohesiveness, and that within those mission parameters everyone has their First Amendment rights. The pendulum must not swing to the other side. “We have a problem, and we are addressing the problem aggressively; but we must not kick God off this base we must not raze the chapel,” he said. “I do believe in separation of church and state,

but I do not believe in separation of church from state.”

AOG BOARD STATEMENT ONRELIGIOUS

RESPECT ISSUE PUBLISHED FEB. 18 2005

Air Force Academy cadets take an oath to uphold and defendthe 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.

To read the Air Force Task Force’s report on the USAFA religious climate released June 22, visit www.usafa.org.H

Cadet Wing Media

THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY IS COMMITTED TO BUILDING LEADERS OF IMPECCABLE CHARACTER for the Air Force and the nation. Character development, deliberately integrated with superb academic, athletic, and military training, is at the heart of all Academy programs. Character defines our professional military identity and distinguishes the Academy from all other institutions. It is the bedrock of the Academy.

Through the generosity of supporters, the Association of Graduates provides financial support to many of the Academy's character enrichment programs. These programs would not be possible without private support.

The AOG would like to thank the following for making commitments of more than $100,000 toward the Academy's character development programs: The Class of 1973; Gil & Dede Mook, '67; John & Beverly Moore, '78; The Muse Educational Foundation (John & Lyn Muse, '73); Richard & Katharine Schlosberg, '65.

For more information about the Academy's character and leadership programs, contact Sean Pieri at

Junior cadets receive AF jobs

By Academy Public Affairs

The Academy’s junior class learned what their future Air Force jobs will be, a full year ahead of their graduation date.

Normally, cadets learn this during the fall semester of their senior year.

“The date has been moved forward for current and future classes to maintain a parallel classification process between all Air Force commissioning sources and allow cadets to know what their jobs would be a year prior to graduation,” said Capt. Jesus Suarez, director of cadet personnel.

“This will also give us more time to complete medical flight physicals and security clearances for rated selectees much earlier than in previous years.”

Undergraduate pilot training awaits 525 members of the Class of 2006, following their graduation next year. Fifty-five are slated to become developmental engineers while 39 junior cadets will become Air Force scientists. Also, 29 junior cadets were selected to become civil engineers.

During this process, approximately 900 junior cadets were classified and the following is a listing of several jobs which they received: space and missile,34; communications-computers, 32; logistics, 27; intelligence, 24; financial management, 19; navigator, 18; manpower/personnel, 16; contracting, 15; security forces, 10; air traffic control, 5; services, 4; weather, 3; and air battle manager, 2.

The 52 cadets slated for acquisitions will first serve an operational tour ofthree years in

the fields of aircraft maintenance, munitions and missile maintenance or intelligence.

Each cadet provided a list ofhis or her top six choices ofAir Force jobs earlier this year. Cadets were then ranked based upon their academic and military standing amongst their peers. They were then allocated their post-graduation career fields based on this ranking, their preferences, their academic major, any physical qualification factors necessary for desired career fields, and ultimately—the needs ofthe Air Force.

Eighty-three percent ofthe cadets received their first choice, while 92 percent received one of their top two choices, and 96 percent received one oftheir top three choices.

Diaz, ’04, recognized by Brits

By Air Force Print News

Second Lt. Delavane Diaz, ’04, was named the British Air Squadrons 2004 Cadet ofthe Year during a recent ceremony at the Pentagon.

Diaz was honored for her performance as a cadet while enrolled at the U.S. Air Force Academy. The award was established in 2000 by the private British Air Squadron organization in tribute to the U.S. military’s support of the United Kingdom.

At the academy, she was a cadet wing commander, NCAA athlete, Academic AllAmerican and Rhodes Scholar. As cadet wing commander, she commanded more than 4,000 cadets and is the second female cadet wing commander in academy history.

Diaz graduated with a 3.95 grade point average and received a degree in astronauti-

cal engineering. She is pursuing two masters’ degrees at Oxford University.

Recipients ofthe award receive the Millennium Sword, which is kept on permanent display in the Pentagon. The sword is a symbol ofthe enduring British-American friendship.

Diaz is the fifth recipient of the award.

Class of 2008 selects exemplar

By C4C Donald Clemson

The Class of2008 has selected its official class exemplar. The Cadet Exemplar Program, which is funded by the Association ofGraduates, provides a means for each Academy class to identify with an airpower giant who represents the character they desire to follow. The Class of 2008’s exemplar is 1st Lt. Karl Richter, ’64.

The class selected three characteristics they wanted to see in their class exemplar: cohesion, devotion and resolve. Upon completion of his 100th F-105 mission, instead ofgoing home, Richter volunteered for an additional 100 missions. On July 28, 1967, while flying his 198th F-105 mission, the lieutenant’s aircraft was disabled by enemy flak. After a violent ejection from his aircraft and landing in a field of uneven limestone, the 24-year-old warrior died en route to a hospital.

A portrait of Richter hangs in Arnold Hall. In addition to memorials, a Falcon Foundation scholarship has been established to help outstanding students gain admission to the Academy.

General Rosa to become newest president of Citadel Air Force AcademySuperintendent Ft. Gen. John Rosa, who helped the school recover from a sex-assault scandal and was leading it through a controversy over alleged religious intolerance, is leaving to become the president ofhis alma mater, The Citadel.

On Sunday, The Citadel announced it had offered Rosa the presidency and that he had accepted. He will succeed Maj. Gen John Grinalds, who leaves Aug. 1 after eight years running the state military college in Charleston, S.C.

Citadel Board ofVisitors Chairman Billy Jenkinson said Rosa’s firsthand knowledge of the college and leadership experience make him the ideal choice for president.

“I am extremely honored to be selected as The Citadel’s next president and I sin

cerely appreciate The Citadel Board of Visitors’ vote of confidence in me,” Rosa, 53, said in a news release.

Johnny Whitaker, academy spokesman, said that Rosa has to get approval from the secretary ofthe Air Force to leave active duty.

“It will probably be a four- to six- month process if everything is approved,” Whitaker said.

Rosa took over as superintendent in the summer of 2003 after the top four commanders of the academy were ousted because of a sexual-assault scandal.

Rosa and the new administration publicly admitted that there was a sexualassault problem at the academy, and focused considerable attention on guaranteeing female cadets that their complaints would be heard. A survey in the fall of 2003 showed that more than 90 percent of

all respondents said they trusted the new academy leadership.

“He has done great things at the academy, and I suspect The Citadel Board of Visitors has been paying attention to that. They came to him,” Whitaker said.

Rosa, a 1973 Citadel graduate, was a bright prospect, recruited by the Air Force while still finishing school.

Apart from his education at The Citadel, Rosa spent plenty of time in and over South Carolina. Some of his 3,600 flying hours were earned from 1975 to 1980 at the controls of A-7s and A-10s, at longsince closed Myrtle Beach Air Force Base.

In 1995, Rosa returned to South Carolina, this time for a two-year stint as commander of the 20th Fighter Wing at Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter. (By Robert Weller, Associated Press) D>

1st Lt. Karl Richter

BEHIND THE SCENES

Academy, AOG present

Distinguished Graduate Awards at Founders Day Dinner

Col. (Ret.) Frederick D. Gregory, ’64, and Gen. (Ret.) Ronald W. Yates, ’60, were honored April 1 at the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Founders Day dinner with the Distinguished Graduate Award. The awards were presented on behalfofthe U.S. Air Force Academy and the Association ofGraduates.

The award is given annually to academy graduates as a way to identify to the public and the Cadet Wing the broad national impact Academy graduates have on society.

Gregory is the acting administrator for NASA. He leads the NASA team and manages its resources. In 2002, he was nominated by President Bush and confirmed by the U.S. Senate as deputy administrator, making him the first African-American deputy in the agency.

Yates was the second Academy graduate to attain the rank of general. He served as the commander of the Air Force Systems Command and was the first commander of the Air Force MaterielCommand.

Graduates selected for Academy’s Board of Visitors

President Bush recently appointed two graduates to the Academy’s Board of Visitors. The appointment ofNancy Kudla, ’80, and Charles Garcia, ’83, reflects the successful efforts ofthe Association ofGraduates to have graduates on the Board ofVisitors.

The AOG was instrumental in getting the mandate that two graduates will be on the Board of Visitors into the 2005 National Defense Authorization Act. The AOG Nominating Committee recommended a list of candidates, including Kudla and Garcia, which was submitted to the White House.

“We are pleased that these two exceptional graduates were selected for this important position,” said Chairman of the AOG Board of Directors, Ted Fegasey, “and we look forward to working with them and continuing our relationship with the Board ofVisitors.” B

The 36,000 graduates of the Long Blue Line proudly congratulate the U.S. Air Force Academy on 50 years of service and excellence to the nation.

Tuskegee Airmen

share their stories with cadets

C2C Felisa Hervey

Wing Public/International Affairs

“Oh,

I’ve got a story for you,” chuckled the seasoned veteran, in answer to the young journalist’s query. The badge on his maroon blazer told a story in itself. Col. (Ret.) James Harvey III was one ofthe originalTuskegee Airmen. Our small table in the Arnold Hall ballroom soon became the desert near Las Vegas (now Nellis) AFB, and we were instantly transported to the year 1949.1 could hear the roar ofthe old bomber aircraft, running up their engines; see the drops of sweat on the young lieutenant’s brown forehead, the fire ofdetermination in his eyes.

It was the first ever Air Force Weapons/Gunnery Meet, and the 332nd Fighter Group had enteredthe competition with Capt. Temple, Lt. Stewart, and then Lt. Harvey flying the P-47. Their competition; all white pilots flying P-5 Is and P-4 Is, clearly the superior bombing aircraft.

The contest included aerial bombing, dive bombing, skip bombing and rocket firing. Despite being out-gunned, the Tuskegee-trained pilots dominated and won the entire competition. Their victory, however, was not acknowledged. Year after year, for the 46 years that followed, the Air Force almanacrecorded the winners of that year’s competition as “unknown.” It was not until 1995, when some of the original competitors finally made enough noise, that the 332nd champions were finally recognized in the pages ofhistory.

This was just one kind of obstacle these resilient men faced. The Tuskegee Airmen Celebration remembered many more. One could detect a distinguished sense ofpride in the air that evening, as makers ofhistory, past and future traversed the ArnoldHall banquet room.

Guests enjoyed a catered dinner, and entertainment by “The Falconaires,” whose saxophones reached soul-deep with a jazz tribute to Ray Charles. Scholarships were awarded to four outstanding high school students from the community whose goals and characters embodied the spirit of the Tuskegee Airmen. One of the winners, Chanel Curry, aspires to be a journalist and fashion designer. Her essay

describes how these heroes “proved people wrong and went above and beyond the expectations that were set for them. Patriotism permeated their hearts along with courage and will.”

Engaging the audience next was the guest speaker, Col. (Ret.) Frederick Gregory, a 1964 graduate of the Academy and recipient of the 2004 Distinguished Graduate Award. Gregory spoke not only of the great battle for respect and civil rights achievements of the Tuskegee Airmen, but also honored oft-forgotten minority groups who have pioneered changes in America’s social history while serving a nation who had discounted or mistreated them.

“Let us not forget them,” said Gregory, reminding us of the 42 Hispanic Medal ofHonor winners, the Navajo code-talkers, Japanese Americans who fought in World War II, and women who boldly took their place in the service in groups such as Women Air Service Pilots and Women’s Army Assistance Corps.

C1C Joseph Reynolds-Grant, who has been involved with the Tuskegee Airmen group at USAFA since his four-degree year, closed the ceremonies. His earnest words challenged us to remember that “leadership leads to legacy.”

It is well that we pay tribute to such leaders who have forged the way for us and consider whether we are pouring out our lives, our blood and sweat now for a cause that is worth such a legacy?

Here’s a toast to those who extraordinarily succeeded in a program designed to fail. To the men who charged courageously into dangerous and uncharted waters. To the heroes, whose faith, excellence, and perseverance changed history and set us a compelling example. To the men whose lives ofsacrifice challenge us to pursue dreams greater than ourselves.

Here’s a toast to the Tuskegee Airmen. 9

Pilots of the 332nd Fighter Group at Ramitelli, Italy. Left to right, Lt. Dempsey W. Morgran, Lt. Carroll S. Woods, Lt. Robert H. Nelron, Jr., Capt. Andrew D. Turner, and Lt. Clarence P. Lester. (U.S. Air Force photo)

The Falcon Travel Program offers opportunities for graduates and AOG members to travel the world with their spouse, family and friends in the company of other Air Force and service academy graduates.

More information about these luxurious travel destinations

Rome - China - Austria - Scandinavia - Baltic States - Russia

Ireland - France - U.S. Pacific Northwest is available online at www.usafa.org Click "Membership & Services" or contact Brian Binn at brian.binn@usafa.af.mil or (719) 472-0300.

Once Upon a Time

Once a Grunt, Always a Grunt

BY RICH CHANICK, ’75

n the fall of 1974, the Air Force Academy was preparing to play Army in what would turn out to be an average year in football. Fortunately, our commandant was Hoyt S. Vandenberg, a 1951 grad from Foxhole Tech, so there was a possibility for mischief in the air. As luck would have it, the firstclassmen of 31st squadron just happened to be in the market for mischief, so this was potentially a match made in heaven. Enter Otto Dieffenbach III, proud member of31st squadron class of’75 and, an apprentice at a lock shop prior to entering the Academy. This was a combination of experience, opportunity (and probably boredom) that could not be passed up, so a plan was hatched for the entire class of’75 in the squadron to leave after Taps, pick all ofthe locks to the commandant’s office, leave a big poster saying •‘Once a Grunt, Always a Grunt,” move all of his furniture to the terrazzo between the Wright brothers and reassemble theoffice (with working phone)—all without being caught. This was clearly a job for seniors—not freshmen. Simple, right?

Fortunately, we had a little time before the event because there were signs to make, and for the first time since I was a cadet we locked our doors so Otto could go from room to room in the dorm practicing picking locks. When the Sunday night of Army

week arrived, an advance team went out just after the library doors were locked and Otto “pre-picked” the library doors. Our scouting had indicated that even though there were more locks to go through in the library, by going “the long way” and then over to the comm’s office we would actually bypass a majority of the security. If the advance team succeeded with the first locked door, the main group would next encounter the comm’s lock. The only unexpected glitch as the evening began was that the security police were occasionally driving a jeep around the terrazzo to guard against any raucous behavior. This was not a giant problem, but we did figure that it probably doubled our chances of being caught.

When the advance team reported back to the squadron that all ofthe library locks were open and everything was a go, we prepared to leave. In the end, all of us but three went. The squadron commander and the ops officer decided they did not want to go. I guess that’s why they had the jobs in the first place. The third person really wanted to go, but we wouldn’t let him. He was on most types ofprobation, and ifwe got caught we would be stuck doing tours and confinements. We were afraid he would find himselfwith airman stripes guarding an alert B-52 someplace cold. He was certainly there in spirit. (A quicksidelight: Yes, he did squeak through to graduate and went on to have probably the most distinguished military career ofanybody in the squadron!)

The actual raid could not have been more perfect. Compared with the teamwork exercises we had to do in Jacks Valley, this was a piece ofcake. All ofthe doors were open, and once we got to the commandant’s office, it took less than a minute to open the last door into the inner sanctum. Of note was the Form-10 on thecommandant’s desk addressing “whoever was reading it” for being out after taps. At first we panicked, thinking that somehow he knew we were coming, but after we thought about it, I guess he was just prepared in case somebody was coming. The desk and couches had to go down the steps because the freight elevators were locked, but we were young and full ofadrenaline. Prior to leaving the office, we took a picture to remind ourselves we had really done it and left—locking all ofthe doors of course.

The last and clearly most dangerous phase ofthe mission was to set up the office between the Wright brothers. We were organized so that each of us had a specific job in setting up the office. I still remember one of my classmates (an EE major, ofcourse) stringing wire for the phone. Nothing feels more exposed than being on the terrazzo at about 3 a.m. carrying the commandant’s office. The entire set up took less than three minutes. We hereby officially apologize to the graveyard shift airman on security police patrol who had to call in and explain to his supervisor how the commandant’s office just “appeared.” When we all landed in the SAR with no “hits or losses,” it was all we could do to keep the laughing and whooping down. None of us could sleep.

The next day the commandant sat at his desk on the terrazzo for a few hours and made calls on his working phone in what I believe

was a terrific show of sportsmanship. Our AOC said that the word he was getting was that it was a “very professional job” given the number oflocks that had to be negotiated. He told us that there were a lot of questions that he had but he knew that they would all be “improper questions.” In the end, all of us agreed that his current level ofknowledge was probably the best for all and he left laughing.

The base paper took pictures of the office on the terrazzo, and all of us just held on to our “Once a Grunt” picture until we thought the statute of limitations had expired. Years later Otto sent the picture to General Vandenberg and once again he expressed his pleasure with the whole event.

As the class of’75 approaches our 30-year Reunion this September, I would not list the raid as our greatest accomplishment at the Academy, but I would not put it at the bottom either. The camaraderie and sense of shared moments are at the very bedrock of the Academy experience. I hope that the spirit of good clean fun and relying on each other will always be part of that education.

I will always be proud to have been part of Vandenberg’s Raiders. S

To submityour “Once Upon a Time”story, please e-mail it to editor@usafa.org.

Confident and capable

Jim Kelly, ’86, sets the course

BY PATRICK PETERSON, FLORIDA TODAY

huttle pilotJim Kelly, ’86, makes it look easy.

Folks always mention selfconfidence and intelligence when they talk about the math whiz, fighter pilot and poker champ.

“Personality-wise, he’s very sure of himselfand he’s very capable,” said his motherin-law, Kathy Williams, who lives in Danville, Iowa, just west of Kelly’s hometown of Burlington. “All through school, he was able to pretty much not study and get good grades.”

Kelly has a knack for making the right choice and sticking with it.

Lie decided to become an astronaut after his father showed him the moon on that July night in 1969 when Neil Armstrong left footprints on the Sea of Tranquility. He was 5 and never wavered. He married his high school sweetheart and remains a dedicated husband and father of four.

Kelly’s career and personal life exhibit the kind of steadiness NASA looks for in those chosen to fly shuttle missions.

Now, NASA will count on the 41-yearold Kelly as pilot on theshuttles’ return to flight, hissecond shuttle mission. In addition to piloting the orbiter, Kelly will operate the shuttle’s remote arm. He will use it to help spacewalkers replace a gyroscope and to guide a camera that will photograph the heat shields to check for damage. Kelly has impressed his colleagues during training.

“If you talk about fast thinkers, he is reallygood,” said Japanese astronaut Koichi Wakata, who has trained with Kelly.

“He never misses the technical details,” Wakata said. “One thing we should be paying attention to is details,details, details.”

Setting the course

Whenever a jet cut through the Iowa sky the young man forgot everything but his plans to fly.

“Neighbors said that on his paper route, he’d stop and drop his newspaper bag and watch thejet go all the way across the sky” said Vicki Dillon, Kelly’s fourth-grade teacher.

Kelly’s second-floor bedroom window lookedtoward the town’s small airport. Each evening, he watched airplanes come and go. In that farmhouse surrounded by cornfields on Mason Road, he decided his life would have the fast, high trajectory of an astronaut.

“When he said he was going to go be an astronaut, you believed him,” Dillon said. “He was always a step ahead ofeverybody I would take encyclopedias home to read up on gravity and experiments to keep ahead ofhim. He asked a million questions.”

As a youngster, he dodged dirt clods in friendly battles with neighborhood kids in the freshly plowed fields that surrounded his home. Those kids also organized touch football games and for hours played Dungeons and Dragons. The role-playing game requires focus, planning and cooperation.

With an emphasis on scenarios and action rather than winning, the fantasy game can go on indefinitely.

“When they would play these games, they were focused. That’s a game where you had to make plans,” said Ruth Ann Sandrock, whose family lived nearby and whose son, Blake, was a friend ofKelly

On the high school football field, Kelly helped his team without being a superstar. He made the most of what he had—brains and heart.

“He was the classic high school guard, quick and determined,” said Ron Glasgow, offensive line coach for the team on which Kelly was a starter for two years.

Coolness under pressure is a pilot’s trademark, and Kelly displayed that trait even as he faced bigger opponents.

“He was always composed, whether things were going well or not,” Glasgow said. “He had a confidence that was a little bit different than most high school students. He was obviously on a different level than most of us.”

All work, some fun?

Physics teacher Keith Summerson, 63, remembers Kelly as a congenial, “brighteyed devil” who liked to gather with his friends during his senior year in 1982.

“He always seemed to have that little sparkle in his eye,” the retired Summerson said. “Every now and then, he wouldn’t do his homework, just so he could get bawled out in front ofthe class and make them think he was one ofthem.”

In addition to self-confidence, Kellys suecess came from a willingness to work hard. Before he learned to fly, Kelly labored as a window washer in Burlington and showed he could do good work.

“Not everybody has a concept about what a good job is,” said Jerry Rigdon, a former Burlington mayor who hired Kelly to work for his window-washing company.

Kelly needed little supervision.

“You never had to worry,” Rigdon said. “He just did it.”

Rigdon, 67, was a close friend ofKellys late father, Bill, an insurance agent and financial planner. The elder Kelly, a red-haired Irishman with a temper, was passionately involved in the community and local government. He died with cancer in 1999, before Kellys first flight in 2001.

Rigdon believes Kellys success had its roots at home, where his parents nurtured academic achievement in each of their three children. Kellys older brother and sister, Joe and Chris, earned scholarships to Drake University, a highly ranked private college in Des Moines, Iowa.

Kelly’s abilities in math and science helped him earn an Air Force Academy appointment. In the Air Force, he became a Top Gun fighter pilot and top-rated test pilot. Ten years of flying fighters in the Air Force was an excellent steppingstone into the space program.

Kelly has logged more than 3,000 flight hours piloting at least 35 different aircraft, including 307 hours in space.

Despite his perfect pilot’s resume, something of the “bright-eyed devil” apparently remains. Kelly’s military call sign is “Vegas.” While stationed in Korea during the 1980s, Kelly and his wingmates spent hours play- ing poker to fight the boredom. With a cool ability to focus and an intuitive mathematical sense, he was the big winner and earned the

nickname, which is how the shuttle crew knows him.

Followingthrough

Kelly’s mother, Mary Ann, said many schoolboys announced that they wanted to be astronauts, but her son actually seemed to have an idea ofwhat would be required.

“He paid a lot ofattention to science and math classes,” she said. “He always had a big interest in planes and flight.”

Kelly has said his parents made him feel he could succeed in the astronaut program.

“Anything I wanted to do, they were, like: ‘Yeah, you can do anything you want to. Ail you have to do is work hard,’ the astronaut said.

During high school, Kelly began dating Dawn Timmerman. She was a year older and went off to Drake. Timmerman earned a 4.0 grade-point average and passed her CPA exam on the first attempt.

When Kelly entered the Air Force Academy, he was told by instructors that his relationship with Timmerman would never survive the four-yearseparation. But Jim and Dawn married the week after he graduated from the academy.

“I think they’rejust meant for each other,” his mother said. D>

Previous page: Kelly gets a final fitting in his launch and entry suit. Above left: STS-102 Pilot James Kelly takes his turn driving the M-113 armored carrierthat the crew could use to exit the pad if an emergency ever occurred prior to launch. Above right: Kelly answers a question from the media during an interview session at the slidewire basket landing near Launch Pad 39B. Photos courtesy of NASA.

In 1999, she moved to Houston to be near her son and four grandchildren. She knows her son has a dangerous job, and she worries, but she supports him because he clearly loves the job he decided on at 5 and has prepared for all his life.

“He was a test pilot, which he considers far more dangerous than being an astronaut,” she said. “He is not afraid, but boy, he wants to know all the engineering ofthe plane, and he is a person who does not rattle easy.”

Kellys mother, like every family member ofthe return-to-flight crew, will spend many uneasy moments until the crew has returned safely. But even a mother who worries can understand why her son works so hard at his job.

“How many people are thrilled to death to go to work every day?” she asked. K

This storyfirstappeared in theApril25 issue ofi the Florida Today. Reprinted withpermission.

BIOGRAPHICAL DATA

Age: 41

Birthplace: Burlington, Iowa.

Education: Bachelorof science, astronautical engineering, U.S. Air Force Academy

Missionduties: In addition to pilotingthe orbiter, Kelly will operate the shuttle’s remote arm to help spacewalkers replace a gyroscope and to guide a camera thatwill photograph the heat shields. Marital status: Married

Hobbies: Playingfootball with his two sons and taking his two daughters to gymnastics. Early inspiration: “I grew up in Iowa right across the cornfield from the airport, so got to see planes taking off and landing every night. I used to go to sleep with my window open just looking at that.”

Nickname: “Vegas,” his call sign as an Air Force test pilot, given to him for his poker prowess.

Previous missions: In 2001, he successfully piloted Discovery on a mission to the International Space Station. Overall, he has logged more than 307 hours in space.

Fact of interest: Kelly was a Top Gun pilot at Luke Air Force Base in Phoenix, and an outstanding graduate from Air Force test pilot school. He was flying at super-secret Nellis Air Force Base when selected for the astronaut program.

In his words: “I had three classmates on the (Columbia) flight... so it hits pretty hard. I think, over time, you think about them as you’re goingthrough training, and we realize it’s a legacy we’re going to be carrying on in our flight I think itturns back around oncemore to the factthatthis is my dream, goinginto space.This wastheirdream, and even thespouses havesaid, post-Columbia, thatwhatthey knowtheirspouse would have wanted was for us to strap it back on again and go up into space.”

Northwestern Preparatory School

PAE Improvement

“Northwestern Prep provided me with an academicfoundation that raised my SAT scores by 200 points, as well as an ability to focus on the essential preparation 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!

THIS MORE THAN 1,300 CADETS FROM THE CLASS OF 2009 WILL ENTER THE ACADEMY, and the clock began to tick. In four years, these graduate and become the next generation to lead the world's 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 imM

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

earn gets high marks t West Point competition

his spring a team ofAcademy cadets competed against participants from other military academies in theSandhurst competition at West Point. The Academy team took eighth place overall, finishing the course in one hour and 56 minutes, i Forty-six teams competed. Each team must perform a series of military tasks as rapidly as possible. The course must be completed in less than three hours. Equipment checks, boat movements, marksmanship, grenade throwing, river crossing, and a wall obstacle are included in the nine kilometer course. Competition scoresare determined by the squad’s performance on each military task andthe time taken to complete the course.

Each competing team provides a nine-member squad that must include at least one female member. Two alternates, one ofwhom must be a female, also are allowed. Each team must have one first-class cadet as squad leader and at least one cadet from each of the three lower classes.

The Academy team was led by ClCs Eric Davis, Craig Neuman. Team members included ClCs Erin Henitz, Brent McCall, Drew Brooks; C2Cs Robert Roby, Michael Graff, C3Cs Chris Leonhardt, Frankie Hallada, Caroline White, Matthew Schlittier; C4Cs Ryan Weaver and Kevin Epstein. Master Sgt. Dana Dvorak, with the 34th training squadron global engagement staff, and Master Sgt. John “Chip” Coleman, 34th TRS Basic Cadet Training chief, provided support as the teams noncommissionedofficers in charge.

“We created our own training plan in order to prepare for the competition,” Davis said. “It included a lot of running, physical training, time on the rifle range, time in the zodiac boat, and time practicing for the other events. We selected the team during the first semester and practiced as a team starting in January and going through the competition.”

The competition is sponsored by the United States Military Academy’s department of military instruction, with oversight by the British Exchange Officer. The Sandhurst competition was originally conceived in 1967 as an inter-companycompetition for West Point cadets. The competition has since expanded to include squads from all the military training academies, six select ROTC squads, and Britain’s Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and Canada’s Royal Military College.

In 1967, the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst presented West Point with a sword. It was to be the prize for a competition, the aim of which was to promote military excellence among the corps as a whole. The original purpose statement proclaimed: “To provide the Corps of Cadets with a challenging and rewarding regimental skills competition, which will enhance professional development and military excellence in selected soldier skills.” This began the first Sandhurst competition, which has been conducted annually ever since, fk

Previous page: C1C Eric Davis holds C1C Brent McCall (upside down) while C1C Craig Neuman climbs up the wall.

Left: Team captain C1C Eric Davis pulls up the rear at the rope bridge crossing. He ensures his team has safely crossed the river and then to rejoin the team.

Below: C1C Eric Davis and C2C Robert Roby wear theirgas masks at the nuclear biological station.

Discount to grads, USAFA family

Burt Subaru of Englewood, Colo., and the Association of Graduates are pleased to announce a significant discount to USAFA graduates, cadets, faculty, staff and their families: vehicle cost plus applicable tax only. No dealer or handling fees are assessed. Buyers also are eligible for any applicable dealer cash, rebates, special financing offers, etc., that are available at the time of purchase.

Burt Subaru will donate $150 to the AOG Air Force Academy Fund for each vehicle purchased through this program.

For more information, please contact Mike Crowley, Burt Subaru sales and leasing representative, at (800) 587-4156.

Alumni Relations

Visit www.usafa.org for information about the 2005 Falcon football season and AOGsponsored events and tailgates.

Visitors Center discount

All AOG members are entitled to a 15 percent discount at the Academy’s visitors center. To receive the discount, AOG members must show their AOG membership card to the

cashier. Academy and AOG merchandise also is available at www.usafa.org.

Visiting the Academy

The Academy has established a “Visitors Corridor” for access to the Cadet Chapel, Visitors Center, Arnold Hall, Honor Court and Field House. These locations are accessible to all Academy visitors through the north gate—a pass is not needed to visit these locations. However, this corridor may be closed at any time due to current base security levels.

The AOG is able to facilitate base access to AOG members who cannot otherwise gain access to the Academy and areas of U.S. Air Force Academy not open to the general public. However, force protection condition (FPCON) requirements may preclude base entry/access.

AOG-issued temporary base access passes may only be used by the member/ constituent requesting the pass on the date(s) indicated and are not transferable.

• AOG-issued temporary base access passes allow entrance through the north and south gates.

AOG-issued temporary base access passes authorizes access to USAPA between the hours of6 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily.

AOG-issued temporary base access passes must be displayed on the vehicle dashboard at all times.

The pass holder may be required to present driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance at any time. Other passengers may be required to show a photo ID.

AOG-issued temporary base access passes do not allow access to the cadet area. To request an AOG-issued temporary base

access pass, please call the AOG at (719) 4720300 or e-mail aog@usafa.orgwith the following information included with your request:

1. Your name (and class year ifapplicable)

2. Your date of birth

3. Your drivers license number and state of issue

4. The date(s) of your visit

5. Your mailing address

6. Name(s) of any guest(s) traveling with you

Requests for an AOG-issued temporarybase access passes must be made at least 10 business days in advance of visiting the Academy. If you immediately require an AOG-issued ternporary base access pass, please call the AOG at (719) 472-0300 to request an expedited pass. (Rushed delivery fees may apply.)

An AOG-issued temporary base access pass is not needed to attend AOG-sponsored events (like reunions) where special passes are already issued. AOG-issued temporary base access passes also are not required to attend football games in Falcon Stadium. Special base access arrangements are made for Falcon football games.

AOG Travel Program

The AOG continues to offer opportunities for graduates and AOG members to travel the world with their spouse, family and friends in the company ofother Air Force and other service academy graduates. Destination packages are designed to provide you with a great travel experience at an affordable price—wonderful destinations, first-class hotels, fantastic tour guides, and itineraries and excursion options that allow you to tailor the trip to your desires and needs. For more information, please visit www.usafa.org.

The Secret Life of Waldof. Dumbsquat

/4C Waldo F. Dumbsquat double-timed past the Air Gardens and down the BRING ME MEN RAMP to a waiting Blue Bird bus. He dropped down into a seat beside his roommate, “Regs” Buch.

“I love going to Pete Field for these Stardust flights,” chortled Waldo.

“Yeah, the T-33 is a really hot jet!”

With that, the fourthclassmen promptly began to bag some Zs.

The bus full ofdoolies lurched forward and accelerated along the road between Fairchild Hall and the terrazzo. Abeam Mitchell Hall, the driver slammed on the brakes, jostling the freshmen from their nap. The door hissed open next to the loading dock. Warren Heels, Regs’ and Waldo’s classmate, boarded the bus with an arm-load of white cardboard containers. A respectful hush fell over the bus.

The box lunches had arrived.

Each cadet onboard received one ofthe containers. Waldo hugged it to his chest and rocked back and forth, whispering “my precious.” Regs opened his box lid and began methodically taking inventory. Waldo snapped out ofhis reverie to join in the treasure count.

“Two pieces of fried chicken.”

“Check.”

“Two bologna sandwiches.”

“Check.”

“One carton of milk.”

“Check.”

“One carton ofjuice.”

“Check.”

“One apple.”

“Check.”

by Don Hall, 76

“Two pieces of gum.” r (VI

“Check.”

xTyTu/

“One‘John Wayne’.” II y “Che- what?”

JiUl

“You know, Waldo the can opener.” A* flkc

“You mean this little piece ofinsignificant metal?” c

“That my friend is the tool that won World War

Two! I am talking about the military issue P-38 Can Opener. P stands for puncture and 38 is how many times it took to go around the CRation can. Marines nicknamed it the ‘John Wayne’.”

“Wow,” said Waldo. “It’s this kind of military hands-on experience I came to the Academy to get!”

“Sorry,” interrupted the bus driver. “Looks like we’ve blown a gasket, popped a seal, and thrown a rod. I don’t think we’re going anywhere today.”

The disappointed groans on the vehicle alerted Waldothat something had to be done. Ducking behind a dumpster, the doolie mumbled the magic words “free weekend.” Instantly, he transformed into the gigantic shape of Colonel Waldo F. Dumbsquat, a man who always carried duct tape. Quickly, the officer strode to the bus and lookedunder the hood. Using a “John Wayne”, some gum, and a quasi-official uniform belt, Colonel Dumbsquat repaired the distressed engine. As the motor roared to life, a cheer arose from the inside of the bus. Sliding under the bus, the colonel transmuted into the puny shape of freshman Waldo. The fourthclassman settled back into his seat and reached for a piece ofchicken.

“Looks like we’re back on theroad again!” exclaimed Regs and Warren.

“That’s right, pilgrim!” said Waldo with a wink. S

How would you like to attend a free, three-day seminar with some of the most accomplished and renowned speakers in America, like General Richard Myers, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; H. Ross Perot, chairman emeritus of Perot Systems Corporation; Charles Garcia, founder ofthe Sterling Financial Group of Companies; Will Keim, founder of The Character Institute; David Edmondson, president and CEOelect of the RadioShack Corporation; and baseballs most popular ambassador and Hall-of-Famer Tommy Lasorda?

That’s just what the 2005 National Character and Leadership Symposium, funded almost exclusively by gifts from the graduate community to the AOG. The event enabledthe Cadet Wing and more than 160 visiting students and faculty members from colleges and universities across the world to attend the event. This year’s NCLS challenged cadets and outside participants along the theme of “Leading Positive Change Raising the Standard of Excellence.”

The speaker lineup was truly world class. Besides the speakers mentioned above, others included Eric Alexander, who led the first blind man to the top of Mount Everest; Capt. Christina Hopper, the F-16 IP named Good Housekeepings top woman in government for 2003 who challenged her listeners to become servant leaders; John

NCLS gets high praise

By Chaplain Jim Glass, 77

Facing page: Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Richard Myers' talks withcadets attending the National Character and Leadership Symposium. (Air Force Photo) Register, Olympics-bound until he lost his leg jumping a hurdle and now a Paralympic athlete with an amazing story ofpersonal integrity; John Graham, who leads others through the Giraffe Project to “stick their necks out for the common good;” Col.Kenneth Rodriguez, ’80, and his Air Force special tactics team. The list goes on and on, with more than 40 speakers offering their perspectives on pursuing moral excellence in every aspect oflife. Even Ethan Zohn, the winner ofSurvivor: Africa—and not much older than the cadets—told how he “survived” with his character intact and went on to invest his million-dollar winnings in Grassroot Soccer to educate children in Africa about HIV/AIDS.

The cadet response has been ecstatic. C1C Ryan Rebuck felt he “learned more than I ever expected to learn in those few days.” Another cadet, in response to Maj. Dave Albrecht’s, ’92, message on “Defining Moments in Life,” wrote, “Your words apply totally to me and what I am trying to grow through Wow, what a force to have!” C3C Nathaniel Smith said, “it was one of the most rewarding conferences I’ve ever been to and it had a tremendous impact on my life. I can’t thank you enough.” A cadet from Portland wrote back to say, “The sessions offered great information, and the speakers were phenomenal. I will bring back this valuable experience and information to the University ofPortland.”

And the speakers concurred. Alan Price, ’68, chief pilot for Delta on September 11, 2001, wrote, “A time and chance to think cognitively about the business of life and how best to live it. What a gift this is, and for the great preparation, and quiet stewardship shown by all Academy personnel we are deeply appreciative.” Eric Alexander said, “I really enjoyed all of the other speakers, but more than that I was impressed with the cadets and the way that they treated others with dignity and respect. I had the opportunity to meet a number of officers and cadets and could certainly see service before self put into action. It was an honorfor me to participate and share with future leaders who have given me much respect for our armed forces and the character which they have. Certainly a humbling experience.”

One USAFA cadet explained, “It’s a great opportunity for cadets to be exposed to role models to set the bar for themselves. This is where they find examples. That’s what I want to be—unshakable and unbreakable.”

Thanks to the generous support of the Association of Graduates, the 12thannual National Character and Leadership Symposium was a resounding success, and the moral context and confidence of cadets and students from around the world have been shaped and strengthened so that they are now just a little more unshakable and unbreakable. This wonderful character development program would not be possible without the tremendous support from the USAFA graduate community! Next year, the Center for Character Development, in association with the AOG and the classes who support NCLS, will take things to an even higher level, making the event the hands-down top character and leadership conference in America, which goes handin-glove with the new AFA vision of becoming the nation’s premier institution for leadership and character. H

“You can’t build up a reputation on whatyou ’re going to do.

Ford

'Cadet forcu

leaves Academy with lasting impressions

By Sarah Pitre, U.S. Air Force Academy 'Cadet for a Day'

Photo by Charley Starr

Dressed in a green flight suit with an American flag on the shoulder and other patches on it, I gripped a fire hose in my hands and sprayed foamy water across the field.

Getting to wrestle a fire hose, flying in two-seater plane, going to the air field to see gliders and marching with the cadets to lunch were some ofthe great things I got to do at the United States Air Force Academy during my Make-A-Wish Foundation wish.

I’ve got autoimmune hepatitis which is destroying my liver. MakeA-Wish Foundation grants wishes of kids with life-threatening diseases. I’m on the national waiting list for a liver.

All my life, I’ve wanted to attend USAFA and it’s been my dream to become an Air Force Academy cadet. My dream came true that weekend; it was made possible by the Cadet for a Day

staff. The program allows children to experience what it is like to be a cadet.

“This one day is a day completely filled with the fun things that happen here. This lets the Cadet for a Day forget about their illness for a day by completely immersing them in cadet life,” C1C Christine Todd said.

The cadets that took my family and me around were like family to us. I wasn’t sure who was having more fun the cadets or my family. We played in the snow and threw snowballs at each other. It was like we had known them for along time and not just for a few days.

I led 100 cadets to lunch and gave them commands as we marched. We marched for several hundred yards, and I hope I’ll never have to do that again because it was hard.

I later asked C1C Lauren Baize what one of her favorite parts of the weekend was, and I was surprised at what she said.

“When we put you on the spot to march 112 people in my squadron, I was amazed at how easy it was for you. I was proud to be led by you in formation.”

Just as I was about to go eat my lunch, I was told that I would receive patches from the different squadrons; all of them I got to keep. The fundidn’t stop there; I was interviewed for a local news station and it aired that night.

The one thing that I thought was really awesome to see was the biology department. We were able to see a humanbrainthat had the eye still attached on it, and my youngest sister got to hold it in her hands. That was her highlight of the whole trip.

I wasn’t sure when the day would end; it just kept going. That night they had a barbeque for my family and the squadron. There was a PowerPoint presentation with pictures of my family and I that were taken throughout the day, which made me laugh and almost cry.

I also received gifts from the squadron and was told that I could keep the flight suit and jacket that I wore that day. They also gave me a baseball jersey and a football shirt and hat that cadets who play on sport teams wear.

The next day I got to see a parade. I sat in the grandstands between the head of NASA andthe general and his wife. While I was there, everyone seemed to know who I was.

That weekend changed my life because I realized that I don’t have to look at myself as someone who is sick. As we drove away almost everyone in my family started to cry because they didn’t want to leave. This experience is something that I will remember for the rest of my life. S

• B.S., University of Colorado

•

Military First® Cash Back Program

• Serving Colorado Springs and Monument

Associate

487-6121,(888) 481-8641

•

•

Gen. Billy Mitchell and the Court-Martial that Gripped the Nation

BY D. SPRAGGINS, ’75

EIGHTY YEARS AGO THIS DECEMBER THE WAR DEPARTMENT MADE PUBLIC THE VERDICT IN THE COURT-MARTIAL OF WILLIAM MITCHELL, BRIGADIER GENERAL U.S. ARMY. HE WAS CONVICTED OF VIOLATING THE NINETY-SIXTH ARTICLE OF WAR.

IF I REMEMBER MY MILITARY HISTORYARIGHT, NO

TRIAL OF A SENIOR U.S. MILITARY LEADER EVER TOOK SO LONG NOR OCCASIONED SUCHPUBLIC NOTICE AND CONTROVERSY.

IT’S BEEN RATHER A WHILE SINCE ANYONE PENNED A POPULAR HISTORY OF THE LIFE OF WILLIAM MITCHELL (HIS PARENTS BESTOWED NO MIDDLE NAME, THOUGH AT TIMES HE’S BEEN CREDITED WITH C P, AND L). SAINTED THOUGH HE IS TO AIRPOWER HISTORY BUFFS, HOW MUCH

OF WHAT WE “KNOW’ OF HIM IS GROUNDED IN REALITY? MORE THAN THREE GENERATIONS HAVE PASSED SINCE. COULD HE HAVE ATTAINED SIGNIFICANT RANK TODAY? WOULD HE EVEN ACCEPT A COMMISSION OR STICK AROUND AFTER SERVING A COMMITMENT? WALLER SPENDS A GOOD DEAL OF INK CONTRASTING THEN WITH NOW, INTER CUT-

TING EVENTS FROM THE SIX-WEEK TRIAL WITH THE STORY OF MITCHELL’S BACKGROUND, BOYHOOD AND EVENTFUL MILITARY CAREER.

Born in the south of France late in 1879 to a wealthy banking family of Milwaukee, Wise., “Willie, “what his parents & siblings always called him” (page 65) was a childhoodfriend of Douglas C. MacArthur and impressed his nanny as the most difficult child she ever cared for. His parents took him home to Milwaukee when he was three, and he spent his boyhood on the suburban family estate. He went off to Episcopal boarding school at the age of 10, and his mother soon earned a reputation for bombarding school officials with notes about her precocious son and how to do their job in general. The pesky streak was inherited.

Rather an underachiever (compared to later accomplishments) in formal schools, he dropped out of college to enlist in the U.S. Army in the war fervor of 1898. Days after he took the oath as a private, his father (by then U.S. senator from Wisconsin) got him commissioned in the Signal Corps.

Arriving too late to see declared-war combat in Cuba, he helped his unit lay more miles oftelegraph wire than any other, under less-thansafe conditions—Cuban insurrects and bandits attacked their erstwhile liberators. A horse rolled on him in a polo match, and he was hospitalized for two weeks. The ChiefSignal officer praised his reports.

Efforts to get other assignments went ignored by the hierarchy, and he was sent to the Philippines late in 1899 where he went into action under Gen. Arthur MacArthur (Douglas’ dad) against the Filipinos (once more, the locals lost patience early, with U.S. troops as liberators). His men captured Emilio Aguinaldo’s adjutant general, and Mitchell kept the man’s revolver as a trophy. Heavy fighting went on for three more years; senior generals termed it worse than the American Civil War, while junior officers grumbled that they were being hobbled by politicians back home. He contracted malaria, came stateside after touring Asia and the Mideast, and confronted staffduty with misgivings.

After extended leave, the Army sent him to Alaska to lay telegraph line. Granted extraordinary latitude by ChiefSignal Officer Adolphus Greeley, he won praise for his network and bought supplies on credit (then as now, a terrible no-no). Greeley approved the funding, but a clerk left a zero off the amount, so Mitchell was on the hook for the balance—some $45,000. He took it breezily, and the Signal Corps came through eventually.

Candlelight study on those long subarctic nights paid off in 1903 when he became the youngest captain in the Army. His interest in aviation may have sprouted in that sojourn—engineering reports on balloons and gliders were part ofhis self-imposed curriculum.

After postings to Ft. Leavenworth, Cuba, and the Philippines, he arrived in 1913 at a very pre-Pentagon D.C., becoming at age 33 the youngest officer ever named to the General Staff, an institution itself then but 10 years old. His independent streak and brash approach had drawn favorable notice in the field, but his G.S. superiors were less than pleased. After spending much of 1915 and part of 1916 bedridden with eye blood clots and inflammatoryrheumatism, he got his first airplane ride and then undertook lessons on his own dime, neglecting

hiswife’s birthday for the first lesson. Unfazed by a nose-over on one solo landing, byJanuary 1917 he’d logged 1,470 minutes in 36 flights, at one dollar a minute, which the Army refused to pay for.

He was the first U.S. officer to go to the actual front in WWI, for which theFrench awarded him the Croix de Guerre. Only a passable pilot who bloomed late in life as aviators went back then, he again showed brilliance in field command, pestering the British for help and tutelage in organizing, equipping and training. His plans for the offensives late in 1918 were imaginatively conceived and well executed, as he commanded the largest air armada to date—likely the biggest until the RAF and USAAF put together the raids of 1943. An energetic, impatient field commander, he was the only senior officer to fly at all during the war. But it was a feat he dared routinely, hazarding ground fire to get a better mental picture ofwhat was going on.

Giulio Douhet was imprisoned for publicly criticizing his Italian superiors, but Billy Mitchell got offeasy. Pride wounded by theArmy’s refusal to name him head ofthe ArmyAir Service after the World War, as assistant head he pressed for better gear and to halt the budget cuts. Despite desperate moves on the part ofUSN, he did in 1921 manage to cobble together aircrews, aircraft and munitions, pushing the state ofthe operational and technical art to sink the Ostfriesland, a feat he later calledhis triumph. He took to making ever-more-strident public complaints about the way air power development was being handled by both the War and Navy departments, which did not endear him to superiors. He was banished from D.C. to Ft. Sam Houston early in 1925 and reduced in rank from brigadier general (temporary) to 0-6, his true permanent rank.

At Ft. Sam that summer, he broke his nose in yet another forced landing—malfunctioning fuel quantity indicators didn’t warn of dry tanks. Evidently, fliershad yet to become as reflexivelysuspicious ofgas gauges as many are now.

The Navy lost the rigid airship USS Shenandoah in September 1925; some 14 died, including the vessel’s commanding officer. Almost at the same time, their bid to fly nonstop to Hawaii ended not only in failure, but the loss of all aircraft involved. The mission commander’s machine ran out offuel short ofthe islands but set down safely on the ocean, then the crew bobbed about for over a week before being rescued.

Deeming these moves ill-considered stunts to wrest the public eye from the Army in the airpower arena, Mitchell saw his opportunity and made a calculatedly provocative public statement, which he released directly to the media without consulting the Army hierarchy—then as now, behavior frowned upon. He took on the air of a clear-headed, forward thinker, provoked into speaking out (despite risks to career) because senior service and political leaders were heedlessly mismanaging military aviation. The Army moved to try him for Article 96, asserting he had been insubordinate and had brought discredit on superiors and the armed services.

He welcomed the showdown, believing public opinion would vindicate him. t>

Neither side really got what it wanted.

He may havebeen motivated by money; as a patrician free-spending upper-crust type, he was bankrolled by mother, sister, both his wives, and sundry friends, forever one step ahead ofcreditors. He exulted in one letter that the Army’s announced intention to court-martial him would make sales ofhis book WingedDefense really take off. It didn’t happen, perhaps because the public was treated to a rehash of every policy issue in its pages, in the newspapers. It came out during the trial that he’d cribbed extensive passages, word for word, from another author. The prosecution showed convincingly that he was quite ignorant about things naval, such as engineering details on flying boats and submarine employment.

The Army’s brass were not quite the blinders-on backward-looking hidebound traditionalists he accused them ofbeing, and many senior officers dismissed him as a hothead with a vindictive streak. Nothing could equal the real vindictiveness of the U.S. Navy, from whence never-identified persons apparently went forth to try to intimidate the widow of the Shenandoah’s skipper into making USN-favorable testimony; an ArmyAir Service witness for the defense testified he was subject to physical intimidation and vague threats presumption of Navy links were strong, but nothing was ever proven.

Celebrity homespun humorist Will Rogers attended parts of the trial in person. Mitchell had taken him aloft on his first airplane ride the previous spring, and he poked fun at the stodgy old War Department in print.

It was the heyday ofinter-service rivalry.

The Army’s JAG section played cagily, refusing the entire time to specify if the defense could offer evidence as an absolute defense (sort oflike the defense against libel is telling the truth), or merely in mitigation. The jury—including a very silent and strained Douglas MacArthur—deliberated but 10 minutes. Mitchell was found guilty on all counts, and the punishment was odd: forfeiture ofall rank, pay, allowances, etc. This put him in a bind, as no outside employment was allowed then; they could have hoped it would provoke him into resigning, which he did.

Petty little details came up. He was billed for issued equipment and clothing he’d failed to turn in. He got back at the powers that were; the day before submitting his resignation, he motored to Bolling Field, then took off and landed 37 times, accruing enough flight time to receive over $1000 in flight pay.

After resigning, he was relegated to the sidelines. Political ambitions did not pan out, and his predictions—some prescient, as in the Pearl Harbor attack, and comments to his mother about Germany, but many merely inane—grew ever more conspiratorial. He consistently refused employ with aircraft manufacturers and airlines, carrying on about how “big business” was perverting America’s economic vitality and degrading national defense. He supported FDR, but that magnate never gave him a sinecure, possibly because of accusations Mitchell made against the Navy back when Franklin was assistant secretary.

Until his death in 1936, Mitchell lived the high life of a country gentleman in Middleburg, west of D.C. in Virginia’s horse country, making some money breeding and selling dogs and horses. Efforts to clear his name havebeen undertaken, but none went far.

Waller goes to great lengths to reacquaint modern readers with how sickly people could be in those days before antibiotics. Even official institutions like the Army were more willing to carry people until they recovered (note the eye clot and rheumatism; Mitchell also got malaria in the Philippines, fell offhorses, and suffered sundry maladies).

We like to think the press is nastier and more heedless today, but quotes from papers and magazines of 1923 show that things are mild now. Standards oflegal proof were far more lax—the Uniform Code ofMilitaryJustice was many years in the future.

USAFA graduates perhaps prefer Billy Mitchell as the forefather oftoday’s Air Force, a prophet ofeerie prescience, who fostered and tutored the men who went on to become senior Army Air Force leaders in the second World War, then—by way of eminently justified and long-awaited triumph—bring into being the United States Air Force. Reading the pages ofA Question ofLoyalty, the less partial reader might instead be tempted to dismiss Mitchell as a flighty crank. The questions posed at the outset return to haunt us, but their what-if answers remain out of reach. Steeped as we are in the postmodern world, perhaps we can understand the likes ofWilliam Mitchell only with effort. H

A Question ofLoyalty so runs the title of a recent book by Douglas Waller (NewYork, 2004: HarperCollins, ISBN 0-06-030347-8; text of364 pages, plus 54 pages ofnotes, nine pages ofbibliography & acknowledgments, and index. Sixteen pages ofphotographs between pages 216 and 232).

THE PINNACLE OF OUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

A new book from the Association of Graduates chronicling the heart and soul of cadet life over the past five decades at the United States Air Force Academy, Flight of Excellence dares to capture the stories, emotions and Academy traditions from the cadet experience. Join us in celebrating 50 years of building leaders of character for the nation.

This full-color, 9x12-inch coffee table book features:

More than 300 pages of articles and photos of Academy life and traditions

• Stories from all of the Academy graduating classes

• Articles written by military experts, graduates and renowned journalists

• Never-before published photos of the Academy And much more.

Reserve your copies today: Standard Hardbound Edition - $47.95 Individually Numbered Leather-Bound Collector's Edition - $74.95

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 Llarbor 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 SAN DIEGO, CA.

SACC Schedule of Events

Thursday, August 18

Registration Fee

The SACC Candidate registration fee is $40 and may be paid

Interview Prep Seminar at6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. by check or credit card. Please mail the below registration with form ofpayment and one copy ofyour resume. Resumes must

Friday, August 19 be one page/one sided and on plain copy paper. Please do not

Breakfast (provided) 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. fax your resume. Registration deadline August 5.

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

sacc 9:00 a m. - 12:15 p.m.

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

SACC Hotel Information

Sheraton San Diego

SACC 1:30 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. 1380 Flarbor Island Drive San Diego, CA 92101

Saturday, August 20 (619) 291 -2900

Interviews only ifdirectly scheduled between company recruiters and candidates; Companies will contact you directly regarding N6Xt ScIlGdlllGd SACC any on-site interviews during the SACC. Austin, Texas, Nov. 10-11, 2005

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

SACC 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? ^Yes ONo

Mail to: SACC 247 King George St.

Please include: ORegistration Form OFee $40 [^Resume (one page/one sided) Annapolis, MD 21402-5068 or

MESSAGES FROM I

remember exactly when it occurred to me to write this story. I was sitting in the passenger terminal at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, at 0400 on a hot morning in August 2004. Across from me was a strapping young lieutenant colonel named Mike “Hans” Gantt. He was in his flight suit. That alone invited a conversation because I had served as a pilot in the Air Force, both active duty and Reserve for 30 years and recognized the patches that festooned his nomex. As aviators do, we played the 20 questions game. I learned that Hans wasan F-16 “Viper” pilot. He had also attended the fighter weapons school and was a graduate of the School for Advanced Airpower Studies. Hans was on his way up to Balad Air Base, Iraq, to take command ofthe Operations Support Squadron.

Balad was my destination, too. Since retiring from the Air Force Reserve in 1999 and an airline career in 2003, I had taken a series of contractor jobs. This assignment had me traveling to Balad to do some operational flying. Hans also mentioned that he was a 1988 graduate of the Air Force Academy, where he had playedvarsity football. As a fellow graduate, Class of 1969, it occurred to me then that I would probably encounter numerous other alumni of our alma mater up at Balad. I started taking notes.

We rode up to Balad on a C-130.1 had flown on them many times. In fact, as we loaded, it occurred to me that my first ride was as a young cadet going home on Christmas leave in 1965. Since then, I had ridden these sturdy and dependable aircraft countless times. The web seats were still uncomfortable and the air conditioner was still incapable

PERSPECTIVE

ofbeing properlyadjusted. But it got us to Balad and deposited us out onto the loading ramp into a bright sunny day and a temperature of about 122 degrees. Hans and I had chatted on the flight and agreed to get together once we setded in.

Balad Air Base is a well built former Iraqi Air Force Base. At one time, it was the home of a premierwing which flew MiG 23s. During Desert Storm, we had severely bombed it. Day and night, F-lllFs had pummeled the runways, aircraft shelters, hangers, and support facilities with laser-guided bombs. The damage was still evident even to newly arriving personnel.

Currendy, it is home for the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing. This unit of several thousand airmen and civilians has several operations, support and medical groups which are located at Balad and several

A C-5 Galaxy sits on the ramp at Balad Air Base, Iraq. The runway is large enough to allow the aircraft to use the airfield, which reduces the base’s dependence on ground-vehicle convoys for supplies. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Suzanne M. Jenkins)

other airfields in Iraq. Individual squadrons are rotated in from other Air Force bases on an as-needed basis. While I was there, the operations group had the 421st Expeditionary Fighter Squadron and the 64th Rescue Squadron assigned as well as several other smaller, more specialized units. Balad is also the current home of several large Army units. These ranged from engineer to armor to aviation battalions and made for a very busy and crowded base.

I was met by one of the technicians in the detachment where I was assigned. He immediatelyhanded me body armor and a helmet because the base had already been mortared twice that day. I then quickly checked in at my operations center, drew my base issue ofequipment, got assigned to my tent, had a quick meal, and got some sleep.

The next day, I reported for work and started the necessary in-briefings and local training necessary to fly in Iraq. When that was done, I logged my first sortie on the 23rd. It had been a long time since I had logged combat time in Southeast Asia. Once I was squared away with my flying responsibilities, I was assigned additional duties. My supervisor directed me to attend as our units representative on the airfield construction and management board so we could monitor the current status of the airfield facilities and projected construction projects. I attendedthe next meeting in the wing conference room. Conducting the meeting was Lt. Col. Hans Gantt. For more than an hour, Hans discussed a series of issues concerning the current status ofthe airfield. Engineer units were very busy repairing war damage and upgrading facilities to handle more and larger aircraft. Hans had his hands full with a wide range ofproblems.

After the meeting, I was able to trap him for a quick interview. Hans was in low spirits. The day before, he had learned of the death of a good friend, Kevin Shea, ’89. Kevin had been killed near Baghdad by a mortar round a few days prior. Hans was still somewhat shaken by the loss.

I asked him for initial impressions of his new job. He admitted that he was challenged by the task ofcommanding a unit in a combat environment but felt that his training and experiences to date have well prepared him for the job. His squadron was in fine shape, although the training load caused by the constant turnover of personnel was staggering and constant. All new personnel arrived qualified in their jobs but needed local training focused on force protection, alarm red procedures, and the rules necessary to live at an austere base. Hans said that the secret to his unit was his great non-commissioned officers.

Thinking back on his Academy experience, Hans said that when he was there, the focus was on the Cold War. That had, of course, changed. But the values he learned, the core capabilities, the discipline, andthe ability to focus he put to use everyday. I asked Hans what he had learned at Balad. He was unequivocal, “Thank God for the civil engineers!” he said, reflecting his clear understanding ofthe key role the support units play in the sustenance ofaerospace power. At that point, Hans had to leave. He was scheduled to chair another meeting. D>

The next day, I ran into Capt. Dylan “Trunk” Baumgartner, ’95. He also was an F-l 6 pilot currently assigned to Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, and was at Balad doing a short tour as the chiefofthe wing standardization and evaluation section. He had been flying the F-l6 since 2000 andhad more than 1,400 hours in the aircraft, including 200 hours ofcombar in operations Southern Watch and Iraqi Freedom. Trunk thoroughly loved his job. He had not initially intended to fly fighters or even pursue a flight career. But his air officer commanding in cadet squadron 13, Capt Pete Edgar, ’84, had flown A-lOs in Desert Storm and had really sparked a fire in Trunk to fly fighters. It was the power of positive personal example that he was very thankful. Trunk also felt that his training at USAFA was directly applicable to what he was experiencing at Balad. The core values he had been taught were critical to getting the job done in the wing. He could not accomplish his work without being able to trust those with whom he worked. He found that life at Balad was just as hectic as cadet days at USAFA. “Life here is 10 pounds ofstuff7 shoved into a 2 pound sock,” he said. “You just have to sort it out.” As I left, he returned to the regulation he was writing and formalizing the wing standardization and evaluation plan.

At another of the innumerable meetings I attended, I met Col. Tom Yanni. He was serving as the commander of the 332nd Mission Support Group. He is a ’79 graduate of cadet squadron 23. Also initially disinclined to fly he also changed his mind while at USAFA, and after graduation went through navigator training. He then served as an F-l 11 and F-15E weapons systems operator for many years, including combat flying over Iraq in Operation Southern Watch. His current permanent duty station is Misawa Air Base, Japan. He feels that this Academy well prepared him for his time in the Air Force, especially his duty at Balad. In his position he has officers and airmen working for him from many diverse specialties. Trying to stay in front ofall ofthat expertise is a daunting challenge.

“I have to make a lot of decisions that I do not have a tremendous amount ofbackground on,” he stated. “The total [Academy] experience, no single piece ofit, but the academics, the military [training], the physical [training] prepared me for that.”

Like Trunk Baumgartner, Colonel Yanni also found life at Balad to be very hectic. He told me “I cannot believe how fast time has passed here. The time cycle is compressed. There is constant movement and progression. Things are constantly going on to focus one’s efforts, not just mine, but the organization, the group and wing. You are constantly tweaking plans, getting new tasks, and moving on to new mission areas.” Col. Yanni has a number of Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve units and individual personnel assigned to his group. “That is something that has been very interesting to me, the number of folks from ANG and AFR units and the positions they are in,” he said. “I have been surprised at the amount—we have these guys in key leadership positions and command positions throughout the organization. It really is a total force. That is something that I did not know about until I came here.”

In his position, Colonel Yanni also serves as the on-scene-commander for any major critical event on base such as an aircraft crash, a major security breach or enemy action or a mass casualty event. His desk was piled high with notebooks full of checklists and his phone rang regularly as we talked. At one point, he walked me up to a large wall map ofthe base and gave me a briefing on various contingencies as he pointed to numerous locations on the base. Fittingly, this was interrupted when we heard an explosion followed immediately by the

An Air Force pararescueman drops from an HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter assigned to the 64th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron at Balad Air Base. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Aaron Allmon II)

wailing ofthe base siren announcing another red alert. His hand held radio rang and he had to ask me to leave as he once again assumed his on-scene-commander duties. It was the fourth time that day.

There are few places to socialize at Balad, so a lot ofmixing goes on in the various chow halls. I met a few more fighter pilots there from the 421st Fighter Squadron. Captain B.J. “Hawkeye” Shnowske is a 2000 grad. After pilot training at Laughlin AFB, Texas, he transitioned into the F-16 and has been flying ever since. He is married to a grad, too, 1st Lt. Erin Bjerke, 01. She is a services officer back at their home base, Hill AFB, Utah, where they have one daughter.

Hawkeye thought that life at USAFA had well qualified him for duty at Balad. “USAFA taught the value ofstructure,” he said. “Core values are a given here. They are so necessary for a place like this to run. Here at Balad, we have to be able to trust and count on one another.” He had an interesting experience on a previous tour over Iraq that validated the importance of trust. While flying an operational mission in June 2003, his flight lead had a fuel malfunction. He could not refuel, and his engine flamed out. The pilot had to eject.

Reacting to training, Hawkeye stayed over the top ofthe downed pilot and was able to marshal rescue forces to the downed airmans location and make a successful rescue. The A-10 flight lead who took over for him said that his actions facilitated a successful rescue.

On this tour, he and his squadron were there to drop bombs to support the troops on the ground. It is called close air support and is a very satisfying mission. But the pilots have to be very precise in their weapons delivery and are, many times, not given permission to drop their bombs because of the danger of harming Iraqi civilians. “One misplaced bomb can have much more impact than ten well placed ones,” he pointed out—a very mature statement for a young fighter pilot.

I got to talk with others from the 421st. Capt. Andrew “Dice” Lyons is a ’95 grad and has already had several other F-16 assignments. He has also had the chance to go to Fighter Weapons School and is now the 421st Fighter Squadron weapons and tactics officer. He pointed out that the Academy taught him that “a situation or problem is never insurmountable and slowand steady determination gets the job done.” He has applied these two principles to his time at Balad. Accept-

Top left: Lt. Col. Mike Gantt, ’88, and crewchief (Courtesy photo). Top right: Col. Tom Yanni, 79. Bottom left: Capt. “Hawkeye” Shnowske, '00. Bottom right: Lt. Gen. “Buck" Buchanan, 72, and me.

ing the squadron deployment to Iraq as a challenge, he has molded the squadron tactics program so that the younger pilots have beenable to steadily expand their tactical flexibility as they encounter varying and unusual situations which cannot accurately be replicated in stateside training. By way ofexample, he enjoyed telling the story of 1 st Lt. Bill “Hoss” Borron, ’01, who expertly handled a tough situation one night over Mosul in northern Iraq. A brand new wingman with less than 300 hours in the jet, he was flying a close air support mission on the wing of Maj. Cris Smith, ’94. A ground team was attackedinside the city and called for support. At that moment, Smith’s critical air-to-ground radio failed, and he could not talk to the troops. Using another intra-flight radio, he directed Borron to go ahead and drop his bombs for the guys down below. The young lieutenant had never dropped a live bomb on enemy troops before. But he took the targeting data from the ground team, confirmed all his armament setting with Smith on the intraflight radio “dude, I’m a little nervous here,” he shared, and dropped his 2,000 pound precisely as instructed. All ofthese great young fighter pilots felt that what they were doing at Baiad was necessary and they were glad to be able to do their part.

After flying one morning, my eyes were bothering me. I talked to one ofthe doctors in the clinic, and he recommended that I go see the ophthalmologist at the main hospital. I called and made an appointment. That afternoon, I was able to see Col. (Dr.) Jim Knowles, ’80,

the chief ophthalmologist at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, currently serving at Baiad. Jim is very representative of the many USAFA grads who have gone into the world of medicine and are serving whereverthe Air Force goes. Showing up as scheduled, Jim proceeded to give me a thorough eye exam. Needless to say, he is a very busy guy and did not feel that he would ever have a chance to do a setpiece interview, so I tried to interview him as we did the checks. Jim was the Cadet Wing commander his last semester at USAFA. That was the pinnacle of the challenges he encountered there and he felt that the “step up to the plate and do it well” attitude he encountered there has served him well in his subsequent career.

As we conducted the exam, he got an emergency call and had to excuse himself. He came back 45 minutes later. His whole mood had changed. I tried to re-engage him in more dialogue but he was unresponsive. Finally, I asked him ifhe was okay. He just shook his head. “I have been an eye doctor for several years now. I am good at it and I take pride in my work. But sometimes it gets to me.” He paused and then continued. “I just had to go in and remove an eye from an injured Marine from the Fallujah battle. It is never easy to do.’’After that, I could think of nothing more to say.

For the next several days, the med-evac helicopters came from Fallujah day and night. I could watch them land. The medical technicians would throw open the side doors and the blood would just run out.

Top right: Much work goes on at Baiad under the cover of darkness. C-17 Globemaster III cargo planesfly in and out, delivering everything from toilet paperto tanks. Underthe transport’s eerie red safety lights, air transportation troops unload an Army A1A1 Abrams tank. (Photo byTech Sgt. Keith Brown) Top right: An F-16 Fighting

Falcon assigned to Baiad Air Base flies a combat sortie supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom (Photo by Staff Sgt. Aaron Allmon II) Bottom left: A pair of F-16 Fighting Falcons launch flares during a mission Aug. 18. The aircraft are assigned to the 332nd Air ExpeditionaryWing at Baiad Air Base, Iraq, and deployed from the New Mexico AirNational Guard. (Photo byTech. Sgt. Scott Reed) Bottom right: Battle damage.

Balad was also a truck stop for all of the convoys which constantly traversed the country hauling supplies and other goods. Because the enemy forces were specifically targeting them, each convoy had to be escorted by security forces. Traditionally, the Army has provided this capability. But the Army does not have enough units available for the task, and the Air Force has been directed to join the effort. Another unit, the 732 Mission Support Group, was assigned to Balad to provide this capability. It was commanded by Col. Eric Pohland, ’83.1 got a chance to talk with him too. He graduated with a degree in basic science and entered the security police career field. Subsequendy, he served in units in Europe, the Pacific and Panama and did staff tours at increasingly higher levels. Then he commanded the Security Police Academy in San Antonio, Texas, and did a tour guarding Air Force One at Andrews AFB, Maryland. Currendy, he is permanently assigned to the 820th Security Forces Group at MoodyAFB, Georgia, and on temporary duty to Balad.

Col. Pohland told me that his two squadrons of1,200 airmen are out among the Iraqi people every day and are at risk. He calls it “front line duty,” something that most airmen never see. Two ofhis airmen have been killed and on average, 10 percent oftheir convoys are attacked on a daily basis. He specifically credits his training at USAFA with preparing him for this assignment. “Every aspect of [USAFA] training is something I reach back to and then pour right into this job now. One of the linkages is that hard training pays off,” he remembered. “The things we did as cadets—Basic Cadet Training and especially Jacks Valley, those kinds of things, the stressors that are purposely put on people—I make that connection now with our basic convoy combat course. Take any skill set aside andunderstand and appreciate that it is a hard, demanding course, physical course, and it does lay on the specific training tailored to running convoys. The kicker is that it is hard, it stresses people to their limits. That is why I am such an advocate ofthat course. Other training as well, for instance, selfaid and buddy care. The things you prepared for going through SERE. And the discipline and patience you learned over time there at USAFA has paid off.”

Given his unique position, I asked him if the Academy specifically prepared him to work with enlisted troops. Again, his answer was illuminating. “I think it did,” he said. “I think it taught me and the other lieutenants coming out of USAFA to be leaders, whether you were leading a flight, a formation or whether you were leading people, enlisted or officers. I felt from my very first assignment, well prepared to motivate people, to talk with people, to set priority and focus and make the work enjoyable for them.”

Col. Pohland also told me that the 732nd would soon be given a third squadron. This one would consist of 400 airmen assigned to assume guard duty at the infamous Abu Ghraib prison. He admitted that the mission was going to be a real challenge, but they had super people and they would do it right.

The next night, my unit was visited by Lt. Gen. Walter “Buck” Buchanan, the combined/joint forces air component commander for CENTCOM. He wanted to see how our operation was going. The general is a 1972 graduate, and I have had the pleasure of knowing him for a few years. So I asked him how USAFA prepared him for his job. He is a thoughtful man and gave the question a few moments of reflection before saying “Bottom line, from the stress of‘first beast’ to

Jacks Valley, basic survival, and SERE to the many leader-followership challenges in the squadrons, on the athletic fields, and as part of every summer program, the Academy experience laid the foundation that underpinned 30 years ofexperience preparing me to be CENTCOM’s C/JFACC.”

Wow!

A few days later, my tour was up, and I returned home. But my education was not yet done. I flew out ofBalad to Ramstein Air Base, Germany, on a C-141, and on to Dover AFB, Delaware, aboard a C5. Both aircraft were flown by Air Force Reserve crews. I spoke with several and discovered that many ofthem were also USAFA graduates. Their stories and memories were very similar to those I heard at Balad. Unfortunately though, their stories were overpowered by the purpose of the flights. The C-141 had 35 litter patients, 35 brave Americans who were badly wounded. The C-5 was loaded with flag draped coffins. I didn’t count them. But those two flights were clear reminders of the cost ofthis war.

In a lighter note, when I got home, I pulled out my log books and did some comparisons. My last combat sortie in Southeast Asia was on August 15, 1973. My first sortie in Iraq was on Aug 23, 2004. That was a hiatus of31 years and 8 days between combat sorties. I am claiming the record.

Later, though while in a more reflective mood, I tried to put meaning to it all. For more than 50 years now, USAFA has been producing officers for the Air Force. Since its creation, those officers have served in every one of our wars, conflicts and military actions. And many a graduate has filled those homeward bound caskets. It was my privilege at this late date in my life to once again serve amongst them. From lieutenant to general, they are out there doing what the Air Force Academy trained them to do. “This is preciselywhat the U.S. taxpayer has spent money on us to prepare us to do,” said Col. Jim Knowles. “Go where the trouble is and do whatever is needed to get the job done, operationally or support wise.”

But I think Trunk Baumgartner said it best, “Proud to be here, proud to serve.”

Well put.

Just a few messages from Balad. R8

© 2005 Darrel Whitcomb

The event is in memory of C3C Chaney King who

killed in

accident Jan.

(From left) AOG vice president of communications Dick Rauschkolb, 70, Falcon Foundation Executive Assistant Pearl Swofford, Dennis King (Chaney’s father) and Falcon Foundation President Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Randy Cubero, ‘61.

nee upon a time •

Grads remember all the great stories you and your classmates shared with one another at your last reunion? Well now is your chance to share some of the most important memories ofyour life with the 22,000 readers of Checkpoints magazine, which includes the entire Cadet Wing.

As the Academy and the Association of Graduates begin a four-year celebration of the institution’s 50th anniversary, the staff of Checkpoints wants to publish some of your cadet experiences and stories of how your four years at the Academy affected your career and life.

Although we can’t guarantee every submission will be published, we hope that many of you will take time to share your first-hand account of the Long Blue Line’s heritage and history. Please keep your story between 500-2000 words. If you have photos to include with the story, please include them, too. Digital copies of photos must be in “jpg” hie format, at a resolution of no less than 300 dots per inch at a dimension of 5 x 7 inches. For more information or ifyou have any questions, please contact Ken Wright at (719) 472-0300 or ken.wright@usafa.af.mil.

Please e-mail your story and photos to editor@aog-usafa.org. Ifyou choose to mail your story, please include a digital copy of your story and photos on a CD or floppy disk. Microsoft Word hies are preferred for the text documents.

by C2C Felisa Hervey Photos by Ken Wright

The room was dark, lit only by a low lamp shining on the face of a man—a portrait offierce determination. In the middle was a solitary chair, its occupant sitting up straight, eyes trained on the picture. A low voice addressed the four degree, as ifhe were in the shoes ofhis hero, staring back at him from beneath the light and the pages ofhistory. “You are the young leader of a platoon in Vietnam, with impossible odds against you..the voice rose and throbbed as he described the intensity ofthe predicament, and challenged the young cadet to ponder carefully what he would do.

A second voice added the bone-chilling questions. “Will you rise to the challenge? Will you be a man of courage and bold conviction?” The third upperclassman retrieved the placard and handed it to the four degree. “This mans life demonstrates the ultimate sacrifice—one you may someday have to make. This will be your personal exemplar... live up to him.”

Other theme rooms, prepared by each squadrons upperclassmen on the Fridaynight ofthe final Pinnacle weekend, depicted briefing rooms, dog-fights, POW camps, funerals, and coffee shop scenarios wherethe four degrees were required to defend their chosen profession in a casual, controversial conversation. The innovative “Hall ofHeroes” room described above was created this year by CS-32, and proved particularly compelling for the rising underclassmen. C3C Shaun Lee, one ofthe primary creators of the room and former training clerk for the squadron, enthusiastically described its success: “All I have from my freshman theme rooms last year are memories. Along with those memories, we wanted to give our freshmen this year something tangible they could always look at for inspiration. Many left the room holding back tears and each ofthem already has their placard displayed on their corkboard.”

Many four degrees agreed that theme rooms were the most significant part of Pinnacle for them, and struck them as very real. “We were in the POW room when the guy got shot. It gave us a sense ofwhat the vets went through and what we may be asked to go through,” said C4C Michael Zulauf. t>

Left:Cadets form up at Cathedral Rock during one of the final events of Pinnacle. Top right: Following the “Run to the Rock,” C3C Brandon Wagoner and his classmates hoist a charge adorned with Class of 2008 graffiti during a march from Cathedral Rock to the Cadet Area.

Right, middle: A few members of the Class of 2005 demonstrate teamwork.

Right, bottom: Pinnacle is just one event during a cadet’s Academyjourney that builds bonds between graduates that will last a lifetime. Bottom, left: Cadets pass Eagles Peak during one of the more rigorous Pinnacle events.

Pinnacle made significant strides toward implanting new training traditions that are both challenging and meaningful. Some cadets who remember the traditions of old mourn the loss of the pride and intensity that accompanied them and hope to regain some of that as changes continue to develop.

The seven-mile nighttime Heritage March was a new tradition this year. Cadets departed the terrazzo at about 9 p.m. Friday night to march the overlook, past the B-52, and arrive at the cemetery for a taps vigil. It was nearly midnight when they returned in silence to the cadet area. They were met by columns of faculty, staff, graduates and even some children, lining the battle ramp, heads down and flashlights casting solemn circles on the ground.

“When I felt like complaining, I remembered the Bataan Death March we learned about that afternoon from the World War II veteran who spoke to our squadron and realized we had nothing to complain about,” said C2C Dan Edelstein. Thirtyseven veterans were visiting the Academy for theFalcon Heritage Forum, which coincided with the final weekend ofPinnacle.

Saturday morning started early, with a reveille formation at 0530. Cadets then endured the physically demanding Line Challenge fairly cheerfully. Long months of preparation by the Pinnacle staff proved its worth, as the whole event ran impressively and smoothly. Nearly 4,000 cadets ran through the entire course

Left: Receiving the “Prop and Wings” remains one of the proudest moments cadets experience at the Academy. Top right: Like past training events, Pinnacle formally ends with a retreat ceremony and the presentation of “Prop and Wings.” Bottom right: Following the CS-15’s presentation of “Prop and Wings,” a brief change of command ceremony was held for all to witness.

in waves, beginning at about 7:30 and finishing before 9:45 a.m. “The Pinnacle held challenges at all levels both for staff and the wing,” said C2C Chris Avery, assistant cadet-in-charge for the training event. “It was successful because we were able to overcome those challenges.”

The Run to the Rock has been an established tradition since nearly its inception, but this year the 160-pound composite “Charges,” gifted by the Association of Graduates, were added as symbols ofsquadron identity and unity. The firsties, decked out in their silver caps, came back glowing. Graduation suddenly seemed just that much more tangible.

The weekend finished with a promotion ceremony for the four degrees, a wing-wide formal dinner, a non-chargeable night-pass, and new long-awaited privileges for all. HI

THE DISTINGUISHED GRADUATE AWARD

DG

Nomination Instructions

DG

The Distinguished Graduate Award recognize five 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 ofthe 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 2006

Distinguished GraduateAward:

Anyone may submit a three-page nomination package. All packages must be submitted byApril 30, 2006. 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 2005 - April 2006

Award is publicized and nominations are accepted Nomination packages must be submitted by April 30, 2006.

May - July 2006

Selection committee reviews nomination packages

August 2006

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 2007

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

Marching to the beat of a new tradition

By Col. Marty France, ’8i

Iarrived at theCadet Chapel at 1815 and began meeting the other 10 grads who signed up to march—at AOG invitation—with squadrons. The ’66 guys were quite proud that they’d shown up in the largest numbers (three) and all were ready to march/hike. I wore my BDUs, since I came essentially from work at Peterson AFB—after stopping by home for a couple slices of pizza and to get equipped for the night. The cadet assigned to herd the old guys together explained to us that they would escort us onto the terrazzo through the entry control point at the southwest corner of the chapel area, take us to our squadrons, and then we would be free to either march in the formation or be an “outrigger” walking alongside, or a little of both—whatever we wanted to do.

This being a “new tradition” there weren’t many rules for the invited guests.

We went down onto the terrazzo and it was VERY disorganized at first. Vandenberg Hall had been evacuated due to a smoke alarm during the “Theme Rooms” portion of the Pinnacle event, and the cadets had just been allowed back in their rooms after the fire

fighters had cleared the building. A cadet, who had been sick, collapsed on the terrazzo during the evacuation, and the EMTs were called and were treating him. I understand he’s fine—no worries.

The cadets, now spilling out onto the terrazzo, had no idea where to form up. All ofthe squadrons were forming on the Vandenberg side. It was fairly dark and hard to recognize folks, so the AOCs and AMTs weren’t easily seen or heard, and no announcements were being made over the loudspeaker. Three fourth-class cadets from CS-17 (my squadron) miraculously recognized me—one had been to our house for Doolie Dining-Out last summer. They asked me if I knew where Stalag was! Of course, I had no clue, so our misfit group started searching for the lost squadron. We eventually found a gaggle of Stalagians that included my son, Sean, who was surprised to see me since he didn’t know I was planning to march. He saluted smardy when he saw me—something that still gets me a little choked up.

The squadron commander was trying to herd CS-17 and figure out where they should be positioned. We moved as a blob twice and finally seemed to be in the right place. During

this period, I managed to take a few pictures ofcadets and some wanted a group shot with the weird colonel that was here at night to march seven miles for fun. The squad then formed up, dressed right, and covered into nine columns, sized forward and right, and we were ready to go. The rapid transition from complete Brownian motion to order among a bunch of cadets still amazes me. Within a couple of seconds, we were on our way, marching west towards the Honor Wall with no cadence or step and lots ofracket.

We turned left up the ramp on the west side of the chapel, onto the traffic circle and then up the road further west past Harmon Hall and onto North Gate Boulevard. By the time we got there, the cadets were singing an ensemble ofjodies, but nothing organized.

I was near the back right of the squadron and I’m convinced that most ofthe squad had no idea I was there—with the possible exception of the poor cadet in front of me that didn’t deserve to be marching with a colonel who hadn’t been in squadron formation for 23+ years and kept stepping on his heels. My own son was two ranks ahead of me and one column left—and I didn’t know it until much later in the march. It was dark. Despite the

jodies, the cadets generally marched at “route step.” Some of the jodies were classics, while others I hadn’t heard before. I taught them one of my favorites, “Cool, Cool,” and we had a good laugh (I was providing needed heritage). We talked about cadet issues and life in general during the march, cadets asked me about my career, and I asked them about where they were from, and about their cadet and career plans.

We rounded the turn at the far northwest corner ofthe athletic fields and started up the big hill to the north overlook in the dark. The moon was full above a fairlyheavy overcast sky and visibility from the light filtering through was pretty good by now. Occasionally, someone in the squad would yell out to “Hydrate!” and most would pull out their canteens for a drink. I had a camelback on, as well as a couple of Power Bars, gloves (unnecessary), and my ever-present blackberry in my pockets. Some cadets would break ranks now and then for a spirited “orbit” run around the squadron and then a quick rejoin, and I sent a couple outside the formation to take action photos with my camera. Several cadets were whining in the days before the march because they had originally been instructed that they could not wear their Gore-Tex parkas/field jacket and the forecast was for temps in the 30s.

Well, the USAFA leadership gave in to the complaints and decided that all cadets not only could, but were now required to wear their field jackets. Well, typical of cadets, within a mile of uphill marching, they were all complaining about being too hot in their field jackets. Being the colonel, I knew better andhadn’t bothered with a jacket—something that had surprised them earlier when we were standing around in the cold. Since they had their web belts on, most took off their jackets and let them hang over their belts at the waist. Watch caps were removed and gloves were taken off, too. We were heading up to the overlook and it was not cold at all. We could see the long, dim “snake” of cadet squadrons marching ahead of us, with flashlights occasionally spotting out of the roughly square blobs.

The road was rough, though. One-anda-half miles of North Gate Boulevard had been completely tornout for repaving, so we were marching on dirt, rocks and torn pavement. There were a couple oftrips and falls in

Stalag, but no injuries. Once we were headed downhill towards the B-52, nature began to call and some cadets attempted to run into the woods for relief. That, of course, just brought out all of the flashlights! We turned right at the B-52, and about 100 yards further up the cadets were rewarded with a bank ofabout 40 port-a-johns. A few ran out to use them and then husded back into formation in record time. Just after we crossed the bridge and before turning up Parade Loop, the squadron stopped and the squadron commander gave instructions to the squadron. He had to repeat himself of couple of times because the noise from adjacent squadrons barking out

the same instructions was so loud. After we turned right on Parade Loop, everyone was to get back “into the military.” Jackets and watch caps back on, dress right, cover, no talking. There would be no talking from that point until the march was complete on the terrazzo. Ifthey heard talking, the squad would repeat the march in two weeks.

No commands would be given within the cemetery once we were in position. We should automatically come to a salute with the first volley ofthe 21-gun salute and hold it until taps was complete. After that, we would march out andback to the cadet area. Frankly, I was VERY impressed with CS-17.1 did not

Top: The addition of Academy graduates made the Wing’s march even more significant.

Bottom: Col. Marty France, ’81, makes a few friends along the road.

hear a single wordfrom that formation for the next hour. We turned into the cemetery and past a couple ofbuses, marching in step now to a drum in the distance. We circled to the backofthe cemetery along the road and came to a halt in the northwest quadrant. The squadron commander gave a very quiet “Stalag, Left, Face” and we all turned in unison. As soon as we did so, the bright white lights powered by gas generators flipped offand all was quiet. From our position, we could really only see the flag illuminated by a spot light. The moon was trying to peek through the clouds and it was completelysilent—very beautiful.

In the distance, a piper played “Amazing Grace.” There were a few seconds ofcalm afterthe final note, and then the sudden, sharp crash of an M-14 volley. All cadet right hands were at the salute position within milliseconds. A second volley, then a third, followed with cadets and colonelsall flinching instinctively each time. Then, one bugle began to play “Taps,” accompanied afterthe third note with another bugle. After a short interval, the Cadet Chorale (which we glimpsed on risers near the flag as we marched into the cemetery) sang both “High Flight” andthe third verse ofthe Air Force Song. Hearing them in the dark distance was moving. Silence returned, and the squad commander then said quietly again, “Stalag, Left, Face.” Unfortunately, we were now facing the wrong way—towards CS-18, who’d done a right facing movement. This was quickly, and spontaneously corrected within the squadron without a command—all of the cadets (and the colonel) just turning around to

Tony Marietta, ’70

Since 1975, selling Colorado homes, homesites, and recreational properties.

face to the south. In another moment, we began marching again to the same slow drumbeat that had brought us into the cemetery. There were no announcements, no statements by theAcademyleaders, nothing. Very solemn, very professional, very simple—very well done.

The rest ofthe march up Parade Loop and onto the parade field was eventful only in its silence. Wed been marching forwell over two hours by now, and you could only hear the dull thud ofrubber boot soles on rocky asphalt and the rustling ofBDU pant legs and Gore-Tex sleeves among the cadets. Occasionally, we would come to a quiet halt as we nearly ran into the squadron ahead of us, then we just as silently start marching again. It seemed appropriate that we were marching from the darkness toward the sharp sodium lights on the hill that mark the cadet area, and after marching for two miles downhill toward the B52, the uphill felt pretty good—at least to my 46-year-old knees.

We next snaked up the road to the parade field and onto the grass. It was a little wet and muddy, but no one slipped. The squadrons turned right up the parade field ramp and were surprised to see several hundred Academy personnel and their families lining both sides of their path in straight lines, facing to center, each with a flashlight to light the way to the ramp. Most were active duty in uniform (BDUs), but they were joined by their kids, spouses, and some civilian employees— again, very well done, very silent, very moving. At almost the same instant that we noticed our corridor of supporters, the cadet realized that their boots were now hitting concrete—smooth, hard, concrete. The sound of boots instantly overcame the rustling of sleeves and became the dominant note. We turned left towards the ramp and I suddenly realized that we were all in step, dressed right, covered down, marching to the ramp without any drum or cadence given, as one, in synch with the squadrons in front and behind.

We approached the ramp, and I’ll always remember the first step from the front rankwhen they hit the ramp. It was almost like that M-14 volley at the cemetery—sharp, distinct. As each rank of Stalag strode onto the ramp, they stomped their left foot down to form their own volley and we continued up the ramp... STOMP, step, STOMP, step, STOMP, step...

We crested the top of the ramp and marched about two-thirds of the way down that side of the terrazzo. The squadrons ahead of us were evaporating into the dorms until suddenly CS-17 was the lead squadron. Without hesitation, the squadron commander simply said, without missing a step, “Stalag, dismissed. Reveilles at 0530 tomorrow morning. Be ready, get some sleep.” Everyone just peeled off to the right. I said goodbye and thanks to the cadets around me and then made a slightly louder “thanks” and “good luck, tomorrow” to the group, butI’m sure very few heard me because most were already under the spell ofthe “Blue Magnet” calling them from the dorms.

I turned left to leave and came face-to-face with C2C France. He saluted me again and said “Goodnight, Dad. Thanks for coming.” I was glad to be a part of a “new tradition” at USAFA. '% MARIETTA

m 6189 Lehman Drive., Suite 200

Colorado Springs, Colorado 80918

OsJ E-mail: usafa70@aol.com 719-592-9700 Toll free: 1-800-571-1161

TRUEBLUE

Tech. Sgt. Lee Blackwell

Career Field: Tactical Air Command and Control Specialist (TACP)

Academy Job Airmanship 490 Non-Commissioned Officer In Charge (Parachute Instructor)

Favorite thing about working with cadets: Teaching someone with no jump experience the basic mechanics of jumping and watching them overcome so many personal fears and becoming more confident.

Time in AirWce and Academy:^' 1

Active Duty: 17 A years S one year at the Academy

Two Bronze Stars (one with valor) for action in Afghanistan.

Aspect of Academy experience that has left th bigg? st impression The fact that the upper classes are the frontline force at the Academy when it comes to teaching the courses with which I'm associated.

Family: Wife: Capt. Angela Marie Blackwell, and daughters, Taylor, II. and Bailey, B.

SPRING SPORTS WRAP-UP

By USAFA Athletics

Baseball

The 2005 Air Force baseball team finished the season with a 9-44 record. With another young team that graduatedjust four seniors, second-year head coach Mike Hutcheon’s team finished the season on a strong note, going 3-3 in their final six regular-season games. After going winless in Mountain West Conference play in 2004, the Falcons went 4-26 in the ’05 season. Air Force took 2-of-3 at Utah for its first series win over the Utes since joining the MWC in 1999-2000. The Falcons also defeated BYU and New Mexico in conference play, snapping a 17-game losing streak to theLobos.

Centerfielder ClC Reid Lamson was named the teams Most Valuable Player. Lamson, a Corning, Calif., native, led the Falcons with a .321 batting average, 52 runs scored and 62 base hits. His 18 stolen bases was the second-best total in the MWC. First baseman C3C Karl Bolt also enjoyed a stellar season, leading AFA with 12 home runs and 39 runs batted in. His 12 homers in 2005 tie him for 11th all-time in a season at the Academy. C2C Paul Pratt led the Falcon pitching staff with a 3-9 record and 41 strikeouts in 62.2 innings pitched. After being converted back to a reliever late in the season, Pratt posted a 1.42 ERA out ofthe bullpen. He did not allow a run in his last four appearances.

Golf

The 2004-05 season was difficult for the Air Force golf team, which finished in eighth place at the Mountain West Conference Championship for the fifth time in six years. However, there have been highlights, including a third-place showing at the Troy Invitational and a team score of 877 at the Ping Cougar Classic in April, which ranks sixth in the Air Force record books. In addition, the Falcons extended its dominance in the Service Academy Classic, winning the team title for the 1 Oth-consecutive season.

The top performer for the Falcons this year has been C2C Tyler Goulding, who has led Air Force in 10 of 12 tournaments for the year, including the Mountain West Conference Championship, where he finished in a tie for seventh place. For his achievements, Goulding was named to the MWC all-conference team, just the second golfer in Air Force history to earn such honors. He was also named the conference golfer ofthe month

in November, after capturing his first career medalist honors at the Troy Invitational.

Lacrosse

The Air Force lacrosse team suffered a disappointing season in 2005, finishing the year with a 4-8 overall record and 1-4 mark in the Great Western Lacrosse League—but certainly showed promise of things to come. With an always challenging schedule playing some ofthe top teams in the nation, the Falcons fell just shy of upsetting league rivals Notre Dame and Denver, taking both ranked teams in overtime on the road.

The Falcons defense was led by long-stick midfielder ClCTim Hade and goalkeeper C3CJustin Pavoni, both ofwhom were named honorable mention preseason AllAmerica selections by Inside Lacrosse magazine. Pavoni ended the season as the league leader in both ground balls (7.5) and saves (12.25) per game, while ranking among the nations top five leaders in the former category. Leading the Air Force attack in 2005 was a C2Cs Will Meister, Justin Kuchta and Conrad Lochocki, along with newcomer Kevin Crumrine. Meister led the Falcons with 39 points on 16 goals and a team-high 23 assists, Kuchta added 32 points (21 goals, 11 assists), and Lochocki, in his first season ofsignificant action, tallied a team-leading 27 goals with three assists. Meanwhile, Crumrine added 26 points on 19 goals and seven assists.

Track and Field

The Air Force track and field team set 14 Academy records during an exciting season that featured one national champion and six first-place finishes at the Mountain West Conference championships. In addition, 17 athletes qualified for the NCAA regional championships, with four advancing from there to the national meet. In the javelin, C3C Dana Pounds crushed the competition en route to becoming the Academy’s first female DivisionI national champion.

C4C Travis Picou had a stellar freshman season, claiming three conference titles and the Mountain West Conference Male Freshman of the Year honors

Antoine Hood’s 23 points helped the Falcons sink Navy 69-46. (Photo by Charley Starr)

during both the indoor and outdoor seasons. Picou won both 200-meter dash titles, as well as the outdoor 100, while C1C Caleb Pelger earned his first heptathIon championship title. ClC Nick Wilson captured his first conference crown by leading a 1-2-3 Air Force sweep in the 3,000-meter run, while Pounds successfully defended her title in the javelin.

ClC Paul Gensic matched the program’s indoor pole vault mark en route to a third-place finish at the national championships to claim All-America honors for the third time. ClC Brian Dumm was the only other athlete on the men’s side to record an Academy mark (10,000-meter run), as the women’s team claimed 12 program bests. C2C Olivia Korte (indoor weight throw, outdoor shot put and outdoor discus throw) and ClC Jami Hodge (indoor and outdoor 200-meter dashes) led the way with a multitude of record-setting performances, while three relay teams (4x100-meter, distance medley and shuttle hurdles) also topped the performance charts. C2C Margaret Frash (3,000-meter steeplechase), C3C Kristin Trichler (indoor 800-meter run), C2C Kelly Robinson (indoor mile) and C3C Dierra Poland (pentathlon) all set Academy records, as did C2C Dana Pounds, whose record-setting javelin performance leads the nation.

Air Force senior-to-be Dana Pounds wrapped up an incredible season with a second-place showing at the USA Track and Field Outdoor Championships. The top collegiate thrower once again, Pounds threw a 177’4” to place second overall. With the strong showing against the nation’s top athletes, Pounds wrapped up an incredible season that included national, regional and conference championship titles.

Men’s Tennis

The 2004-05 Air Force men’s tennis team began the season with an eight-match winning streak and its top player, C2C Shannon Buck, pulled off one of the greatest upsets in school history by defeating the nation’s No. 3 ranked player in a fall tournament. Once the Falcons entered MWC play, however, things were not as rosy. Air Force lost all five of its conference matches, but regrouped to upset New Mexico in the MWC quarterfinals, 5-2. The season ended with a 4-0 loss to BYU in the semis and an 18-12 overall record. Buck advanced to the NCAA Singles Championships this season, becoming the first Air Force player in history to compete in two separate tournaments. He posted a 25-2 overall singles record and a 21-1 dual match mark at No. 1 singles. Buck, who gathered his third consecutive all-MWC selection, is currently the school’s career leader for singles winning percentage at 91 percent (65-5).

Women’s Tennis

The Air Force women’s tennis team knew it would be a rough go in ’04-05. The Falcons finished the season

with an 8-18 record, including an 0-7 mark against MWC opponents. C2C Kat Bushey led the way at No. 1 singles, winning 16 overall matches and 11 dual matches. Freshman Lauren Wilson posted 15 overall victories, including 12 dual matches while switching between the Nos. 3 and 4 positions.

Bushey was honored by the MWC as its Sportsmanship Award winner, the third straight year a Falcon has won the award. She and C2C Karissa Walker had a solid doubles campaign, winning 17 matches this season. 99

2004-2005

Air Force versus the service academies

Baseball (0-1, loss to Navy)

Basketball, men’s (1-0, beat Navy)

Basketball, women’s (1-0, beat Navy; 0-1 lost to Army)

Boxing (9-12, versus Navy: 9-12 versus Army)

Fencing, men’s (1-0, beat Army)

Fencing, women’s (1-0, beat Army)

Football (1-0, beat Army; 0-1, lost to Navy)

Golf (1-0, beat Army; 1-0, beat Navy)

Gymnastics, men’s (0-1, loss to Navy; 0-3 loss to Army)

Ice Hockey (2-0, win against Army)

Lacrosse (0-1, lost to Army)

Rifle (0-1, lost to Navy; 0-1, lost to Army; 1-0, beat US Coast Guard)

Soccer, men’s (1-0, beat Army)

Soccer, women’s (0-1, loss to Army)

Swimming & Diving, men’s (N/A)

Swimming & Diving, women’s (N/A)

Tennis, men’s (0-1, lost to Army)

Tennis, women’s (0-1, lost to Army)

Track & Field, men’s (N/A)

Track & Field, women’s (N/A

Volleyball (1-0, win against Army; 1-0 win against Navy)

Water Polo (0-1, lost to Navy)

Wrestling (1-0, beat Army; 0-1, lost to Navy)

Mueh, ’66 named athletic director

By USAFA Athletics

Dr. Hans J. Mueh, ’66, has been selected as the Air Force Academy’s Athletic Director, effective Aug. 1.

Dr. Mueh has served as the athletic director on a ternporary basis since last summer. He was one ofthree finalists for the position chosen from an initial pool of seven applicants.

Mueh is the Academy’s first civilian athletic director, but is not a stranger to the military, military athletics or the Air Force Academy. He is a 1966 Air Force Academy graduate and was the last member ofhis class serving on active duty when he retired in July 2004.

Thirty-three of Mueh’s 42 years in uniform havebeen at the Academy. While a cadet, he was a two-year letter winner in soccer as a goalie. Dr. Mueh still holds the academy record for saves at 30, and helped the Falcons win the Rocky Mountain Intercollegiate Soccer League title in 1965 and 1966. He later played semi-professional soccer with the Denver-based Aurora Internationals.

After graduation, he went on to serve as an intelligence officer in Virginia, Vietnam and Thailand, and taught chemistry during his first tour as an Academy instructor. He later earned a doctorate ofphilosophy in chemistry, and rejoined the Academy faculty as a chemistry professor. Dr. Mueh progressed from associate professor to head the Department of Chemistry here, but still maintained his connection with Academy athletics.

He served on the Western Athletic Conference Joinr Council, was the Academy representative to the transition team which established the new Mountain West Conference and wrote the first conference handbook. Dr. Mueh was a two-time chair ofthe MWC Joint Council, and served as NCAA Region 7 director for postgraduate scholarships. Back at the Academy, he also served as an officer representative with Academy golfand football teams and was the NCAA faculty athletic representative.

Dr. Mueh finished out his active duty career as Vice Dean of the Faculty and retired as a brigadier general. He immediately stepped into the role of athletic director here on August 2, 2004 on a one-year basis.

As athletic director, Dr. Mueh is responsible for the extensive Academy athletic and physical education programs, which includes 27 NCAA Division I sports and several nationally-recognized athletic programs. 9

Karmondy, Lefever earn academic All-District honors

By USAFA Athletics

Air Force swimmer C2C Matt Karmondy and wresder ClC Luke Lefever were both named to the 2005 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America® University Division Mens At-Large All-District VII Team as selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America. The 10 student-athletes selected to the first team advance to the national Academic All-America ballot.

There were 33 student-athletes nominated from District VII representing the sports of fencing, golf, ice hockey, rifle, skiing, swimming, tennis, water polo and wresding. Five seniors and five juniors comprise the mens at-large all-district team. The combined grade-point average ofthis years team is 3.76.

Karmondy, a junior from Colorado Springs, Colo., earned his first academic all-district honors this season. The aeronautical engineeringmajor has compiled a 3.85 GPA over his first three years at the Academy. Appearing in every meet this season, Karmondy swam the seventh-fastest 1,650 freestyle time in school history at the Mountain West Conference Championships and earned second-team all-conference honors in the event. A two-time MWC ScholarAthlete and first-team All-MWC performer in 2004, he has been named to both the Dean’s List and Athletics List every semester at Air Force. Currently, Karmondy is assisting NASA with research for an upcoming shutde launch.

Lefever, a senior from LaCrosse, Wis., captures his second academic all-district recognition, having been named to the at-large all-district second team in 2003, when he finished as runner-up at the NCAA West Regional. A co-captain for the Falcon wresders in 2005, Lefever graduated with a 3.67 GPA in civil engineering. This season, the 184-pounder put together a 23-17 record, including a 4-4 mark in dual action, despite missing the first part ofthe season following his second elbow surgery. Lefever, who wrapped up his career with an overall record of72-45, was one of four Falcons to win an individual tide at the Colorado Collegiates, helpingAir Force to its first team title in the event since 2002, while also finishing as runner-up at the All-AcademyChampionships. Fie was recognized for his overall achievement as an Air Force cadet, earning the Superintendents pin for military, athletic and academic excellence. V

Acee inducted into NJCAA Lacrosse Hall of Fame

By USAFA Athletics

The National Junior College Athletic Association Men’s Lacrosse Coaches Association recently inducted Air Force head coachFred Acee into the Association’s Hall of Fame. Acee and Mike Candel of Nassau Community College are the first two inductees in the newly formed organization.

For 30 years, Acee made a name for himself as head coach at SUNY Farmingdale on Long Island. Competing in arguably the toughest region in junior college lacrosse at the time, Acee built the Rams into a national lacrosse powerhouse. His belief in fundamentals and tenacious defense propelled the Rams to the National Junior College Championship in 1977, 1981 and 1987. Under his guidance, Farmingdale advanced to the NJCAA Final Four an amazing 25 times. As a testament to hiscoaching skills, Acee, whose overall coaching record is 312-119-1, was named NJCAA Coach ofthe Year in 1977,1981, 1987 and 1997. Realizing the importance ofathletics and academics, Acee has produced a bevy ofacademic and athletic All-Americans during his tenure.

The New York native was inducted into the Long Island Metropolitan Hall of Fame in 1992, served on the coaching staffofthe 1994 World Champion United States lacrosse team and was named USILA Man ofthe Year in 2001. He is also a past president of the NJCAA Lacrosse Coaches Association. Acee brought his talents to the Division I level at the Air Force Academy in 1998 and has raised the profile of the Falcons’ lacrosse program, scheduling some of the toughest competition in the nation. HI

Lou Burkel Named CGA

Regional Coach of the Year

By USAFA Athletics

Air Force men’s gymnastics head coach Lou Burkel was honored with a pair of awards from the Collegiate Gymnastics Association at the 2005 NCAA Championship banquet on April 6, including the West Region Coach ofthe Year award.

The CGA honored Burkel with his third CGA regional coach ofthe year award. The former president of the CGA (1989-91) claimed his previous honors in 1989 and 1992, taking the Midwest regional awards. Due to a realignment of the regions, 2005 marked Burkel’s first West regional honor.

In addition, he was awardedthe Richard M. Aronson Special Service Awards. Burkel, who is retiring in August after 30 years of service to the Air Force Academy and collegiate gymnastics, was the recipient of an award which honors individuals who have provided exceptional service to the CGA. The award is named for Richard Aronson, long-time CGA Executive Director, for his untiring devotion to, and efforts on behalfofthe CGA.

Burkel has been active in collegiate gymnastics for over 30 years. He served two terms as vice president and president of the National Association ofCollegiate Gymnastics Coaches (Collegiate Gymnastics Association). He is in his 22nd year as chairman ofthe CGA AllAmerica Awards Committee. He is also chairman of the NCAA Gymnastics Committee, where he previously served for eight years as a member and three years as chairman. Burkel is a member ofthe USA Gymnastics Board ofDirectors and is also a member ofthe USAG Grievance Committee. HI

Stability bridges AFA, new coach

Jeff Bzdelik, a seasoned professional coach, was recently named to lead the Falcons

By Dan Wolken, The Gazette

he former Nuggets coach replaces Chris Mooney, who left May 5 for Richmond.

Over the past 28 years, JeffBzdelik has learned to accept the realities of the coaching business. Here today, gone tomorrow isn’t a cliche when it’s a way of life.

Last December, it was a reality Bzdelik had to face when he was bred after a disappointing start with the Denver Nuggets.

Just a 30-minute drive south of Bzdelik’s house in suburban Denver, the Air Force men’s basketball program was learning the same lesson, but from the opposite angle. On May 5, the Falcons began looking for their third coach in 13 months after Chris Mooney left unexpectedly for Richmond.

Both searching for stability, Bzdelik and Air Force found each other. At least that was the theme at Bzdelik’s first news conference as Falcons coach, five days after agreeing to a five-year contract.

“1 don’t want to go anywhere unless they throw me out of here,”Bzdelik, 52, said. “Anybody who knows me knows my family is so important to me. This is a very important time in their lives and we’re going to stay here.”

The idea that Bzdelik, an NBA Coach of the Year candidate two seasons ago, would be a match for Air Force, a moribund program until 2003-04, might not seem obvious. Even senior associate athletic director Mike Saks said jokingly that when Bzdelik called, he figured it was to recommend somebody else for the job.

But beneath the surface, Bzdelik, who hasn’t coached a college game in 17 years, said there was a bigger consideration than getting a job in the NBA. Even after getting bred from the Nuggets, Bzdelik was trying to bgure out how he could get another job without moving his children.

“I’ve had great admiration for this place for a long, long time. 1 have so much respect for the academies and in particular this one,” Bzdelik said. “My children are 13 and 16. They don’t have to move. They can continue with their high school. To me it’s also a great environment for the family. What Joe (Scott) and Chris (Mooney) have started, they put a foundation here in place that we feel we can build on. To me it’s just a wonderful opportunity and I’m very grateful and thankful.”

Now thatBzdelik has achieved continuity in his personal life, his attention will turn to maintaining Air Force’s progress.

That will encompass not only guiding a team that will be a favorite to win the Mountain West Conference next season but also recruiting, something he hasn’t done since 1988, when he was at Maryland-Baltimore County.

“1 think I’ve done a great job ofmaking sure I’ve never lost contact (with the recruiting world) even though it’s been 18 years with those various coaches,” Bzdelik said.

“I love to talk basketball and when we’d go to play Seattle, for instance, I always made sure I picked up the phone and called people. Now there are high school players entering the drab so it’s not separated as much as you would think. I don’t think I’ll be that out oftouch and my staffwill be able to open a lot ofdoors for me.”

Bzdelik’s said that assistant Larry Mangino would be retained. Major Jon Jordan, who is retiring from Air Force, has been extended an offer to remain, but Bzdelik wasn’t optimisticJordan would take it. Metro State assistant Derrick Clark conhrmed he’ll be joining the staff.

Former assistants Mike McKee and Kevin Mcgeehan have joined Mooney’s staff in Richmond.

Meanwhile, Bzdelik is meeting individually with players, which he already had some familiarity with from attending some practices and games this past winter.

“He wants us to be in great shape, to be in the best shape of our life and to get stronger,” forward Nick Welch said. “He stressed being physical, being tough, getting into guys and to do that it’s going to take an unbelievable effort during the summer to get in shape and to be strong physically.”

Bzdelik said one of his priorities will be improving the defense, which has ranked highly in points allowed but not in defensive held goal percentage. He said he doesn’t plan on tinkering too much with the offense, which is a Princeton-style system.

“Whether or not it’s pure Princeton offense or Air Force offense didn’t matter to us because it was Jeff Bzdelik,” athletic director Hans Mueh said. “He has a great history of preparing teams for any kind of competition and doing the legwork on accessing talent and scouting that we thought we can’t pass this up. It was too good an opportunity.” S

ZDELIK

1978-80: 1980-86:

Assistant, Davidson Assistant, Northwestern

Coach, Maryland-Baltimore County (25-31 record)

Assistant, Washington Bullets (top assistant, 1993-94)

Lead scout, New York Knicks

1995-2001:

Assistant, Miami Heat (also director of scouting, 1999-2001) Scout, Denver Nuggets

2001- 02

Coach, Denver Nuggets (73-119 record)

2002-04: 2005:

Hired at Air Force

Photo courtesy ofUSAFA Athletics

FALCONS to join Atlantic

Hockey in 2006-07

By USAFA Athletics

he U.S. Air Force Academy has accepted an invitation to join the Atlantic Hockey Association and will begin competition in the league for the start of the 2006-07 season. The addition of the Falcons to the Atlantic Hockey ranks will bring the total number ofmembers in the league to 10 teams when the 2006-07 season commences, and Air Force will become a full participant in the conference. The announcement was made recently during a press conference held at the Cadet Field House.

Atlantic Hockey Commissioner Bob DeGregorio along with Air Force Vice Athletic Director Brad DeAustin and Senior Associate Athletic Director Michael Saks, were on hand to make the announcement. Also in attendance was men’s ice hockey head coach Frank Serratore, having recently completed his eighth season behind the bench for the Falcons.

“We have a lot ofrespect for the institutions in Adantic Hockey and are thrilled to be a part of the conference,” commented Air Force Athletic Director Dr. Hans Mueh on the move. “The schools in Atlantic Hockey are strong

academically and they take great pride in their hockey programs. We have played many ofthe teams from Atlantic Hockey over the past five years and have always had great competitions. We look forward to establishing new rivalries and continuing the traditional battle with Army. This is a great fit for our cadet-athletes.”

“Air Force is a highly visible and recognized name, and for Atlantic Hockey it gives our organization a Division-I institution that will take the place ofQuinnipiac when it departs,” remarked DeGregorio at the announcement. “Along with Army, Atlantic Hockey now has the two service academies that play collegiate ice hockey, both ofwhich have rich traditions and history, and the inclusion of the two institutions in our league will help in building our traditions and history. Air Force fits well academically with the other members of our conference, and competitively Air Force poses a challenge to the nine other teams in our league in 2006-07. I welcome our newest member to Atlantic Hockey and I look forward to seeing the Falcons compete on the ice.”

Photo by Joel Strayer

DeGregorio and Tim Dillon, former Athletic Director at Canisius and chair of the Atlantic Hockey Executive Committee, visited Air Force during the middle ofJanuary, when current member Army traveled to Colorado Springs to take on its fellow service academy. Discussion between the current members of Atlantic Hockey began in February regarding the dynamics of adding Air Force to the association and after deliberation over scheduling for a 10-team league, a model was constructed in March that was acceptable to both the membership and Air Force.

For the 2006-07 season, the teams in Atlantic Hockey will be split into five pairs oftwo. Each pair will play a total offour games against its pair partner, two home and two away. A team will also play a total of four games against four league opponents, two home and two away, for a two year period. The final eight games ofthe 28-game schedule for a team will come against the remaining four teams in Atlantic Hockey on a two-game basis, playing two games at home one year against the opponent and two contests on the road the following year. For the 2008-09 season, the teams will swap the opponents that were played four times and twice, the exception being the teams partner. Each team in the league will have 14 home and 14 away games in conference play.

Air Force will be paired with Rochester Institute ofTechnology, which was admitted to Atlantic Hockey in December of

2004 for the 2006-07 season. The remaining pairs will include Army and Connecticut, American International and Bentley, Holy Cross and Sacred Heart, and Canisius and Mercyhurst.

“By adding Air Force to the fold, we have become a 10-team league, which is where we want to be at this moment,” said DeGregorio. “The concerns that have been raised regarding travel have been addressed and answered, because most of our members already play Air Force on a home and away basis every other year. Regardless of this, every member ofAtlantic Hockey makes one or two major trips a year, and by adding Air Force it allows our student-athletesthe opportunity to play in a great venue in one of the most beautiful regions ofthe country.”

“I am excited about our membership to Atlantic Hockey,” said Air Force head coach Frank Serratore. “We have a lot in common with the majority of schools in the league and it is very exciting to once again be in a conference with our fellow Service Academy at West Point.”

A charter member of the College Hockey America conference since 1999, Air Force competed against six of the current Atlantic Hockey members in 2004-05, posting a 7-1-2 record against Atlantic Hockey opponents. The Falcons finished the season with a 14-19-3 record overall, and finished fifth in the CHA this season. S

Merchandise

Cadet T-Shirt

100% Pre-shrunk cotton. White with dark navy ringer collar and sleeve cuff $10.50

Cadet Sweatshirt

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

Shop online

24 hours a day at www:usafa.org

Prices, styles andcolors are subject to change.

Poio/Golf Shirts

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

MFl i

1

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

Hooded Sweatshirt

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

Crewneck Sweatshirt

MV 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 prevoiusly used patches (Please specify squadron) $5.00

Class Notebooks

6 1/4" x 9" Gray leather notebook. Years available: 1966, 1992-1995, 19972005 $12.50

Prop & Wing Necklace

Silver with 20" chain. Similar to emblem worn by cadets $25.50

2005 Ornament

Oval shaped ornament featuring the eagle and fledglings statue, in the background is the cadet chapel and a sunburst $20.00

2004 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 $17.95

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 $240.00

to Chapter Web sites at www.usafa.org

Chapter News

Outlook

The AF Academy Society of Washington D.C.

The vision for this not-for-profit, educational organization for grads is to “build on [our] Air Force Academy shared experiences and values to foster personal and professional success.” The society is an ever-expanding network ofgraduates focused on the business side of life. Our focus is to help fellow grads with their transition into the business world and discover that the camaraderie we valued during our service can continue from the military through a “network” of grads who share similar interests and

values. In the business world, there’s a broad spectrum ofvalues and beliefs. The path to suecess and rules of behavior are less obvious and there’s less structure to rely on. As a member of the society, you can develop your “grad” network, ask questions and speak openly away from your workplace, ask for tips, learn interesting aspects of business from our speakers, and meet other grads who could be good contacts for suppliers, teammates, customers and clients. At each meeting, we begin with a networking period followed by a guest speaker discussing a current business topic of interest. Each year, we hold approximately four to five business meetings, a social event/fundraiser and a community service event. Our membership of nearly 300 grads from the classes of’59 to the present gives the society significant contact across a broad range of industries and government. Your participation brings you into this business-focused network. The society is also a place where grads can discuss issues related to the Academy and if the issue is important enough, and views are strong enough, present the viewpoint of a significant and influential group ofgraduates to an appropriate audience.

Arizona Chapter

In the fall, a dinner party or a tailgate party in conjunction with an AFA football game. In early December, Jim and Chirl Sienicki, ’74, will again host a holiday party at their house. After the New Year, the 2006 Super Bowl party will be hosted byJack and PollySwonson, ’62. The party will begin an hour before kickoff in order for everyone to enjoy the pre-game hype and partake ofeating and drinking rituals.

Northern California Chapter

The chapter has enjoyed watching some great Air Force competitions in the Bay Area and is already looking forward to football season. We are speaking at the Doolie Send Off Dinner to help prepare the Class of2009 in June. Also, the annual sports day and picnic at the Moraga Country Club is coming up this summer. Ifyou have any questions or would like to plan an event, please send an email to oisusan@yahoo.com.

Orange County Chapter (Calif.)

The planning and direction for the chapter’s activities are still entrusted to a loosely federated group we call the chapter’s “steering committee.” This group comprises interested graduates (spread across several classes) and has about six or seven relatively active participants. The committee meets monthly on the first Tuesday of each month. Any graduate interested in working on the steering committee is encouraged to attend these meetings. E-mail Pam Walters at pwalters@jdplaw.com and ask her to notify you of upcoming meetings. We’ll also be holding our annual Golf Outing in August. More information on this and other chapter events are available on our Web site.

Southwest Ohio Chapter

The chapter is anticipating the third annual USAF Academy Grads & Friends Golf Tournament in August. Proceeds will again go to further the objectives ofthe AOG.

7.

8.

9.

GOAL 1

Celebrate Academy heritage

Atlanta Chapter

The chapter celebrated Founders Day on April 30 at a buffet dinner in Atlanta facilitated by chapter officers Ken Grizzle, ’63, Gary Saban, ’63, and Bill Morgan, ’65. To begin the program, a brief but brilliant and inspiring message recalling the situation at Dunkirk “If It Be So” was given by scholar of history, Gary Fausti, ’65. The chapter was honored

by the luminous presence ofBrig. Gen. Dana Bom, ’83. She delivered a sobering outline of the challenges extant at the Academy and an articulate and encouraging presentation of the leadership’s vision for the future which was well received by those in attendance. She visited as well with her classmates: Ted Zijacz, Lee Valentine, and AmyWimmer Cox, who drove down from Nashville.

GOAL 2

Keep abreast ofAir Force and USAFA topics

Heartland-LeMay Chapter (Neb.)

Maj. Gen. Roger Lempke, ’69, met with the chapter for an informal presentation about his observations and impressions from his two recent visits to Nebraska Army National Guard units deployed to Kuwait and Iraq. The event was conducted off-base to allow non-active duty members to attend. The presentation was extremely well done and received—with many questions asked and answered.

Maj. Gen.

Piedmont Chapter (N.C.)

The chapter accepted the AOG’s offer to host one of its staff members to discuss the current elections and recent developments regarding governance. On April 18, Gary Howe, ’69, vice president for mission support, traveled to Charlotte, N.C., and met with members ofthe chapter at a local restaurant.

Southwest Ohio Chapter

On May 18, Gary Howe, ’69, met with more than 60 graduates in the chapter to discuss the AOG perspectives on the current ballot. The chapter also thanks Lt. Col. Mark Williams, who has been our “on base” e-mail focal point and golf event coordinator for the past two years. Major Chris Nelson has taken up the charge as our electronic connection point.

GOAL 4

Provide graduates networking opportunities

Orange County Chapter (Calif.)

The chapter conducts a business networking lunch from noon to 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday ofevery month at Hof’s Hut Restaurant in Irvine. Hof’s Hut is across from theJohnWayne airport. Typically, one graduate gives a presentation on professional or graduate interest, such as the new tax laws, updates on USAFA activities and changes, and Internet security.

GOAL 5

Interact with other service academy graduates

Arizona Chapter

Thanks to Doug and Carol Pelton, ’74, for hosting the chapter’s annual spring pig roast. Many graduates and their families and friends attended, include several graduates who attended an Arizona chapter event for the first time. Also a big thanks goes out to Ron and Barb Marusiak, ’71, for graciouslyhosting the annualJuly 4th party at their house right on the Arizona Country Club golfcourse where the fireworks are set off.

New England Chapter

The chapter honored Boston-area appointees and their families at the 17th annual NEAOG AcademyNightApril 28. TheAcademy’s Director of Communications Col. (Ret.) Johnny Whitaker, ’73, attended andtalked with more than 140 graduates, parents club members, appointees, and Academy liaison officers. Every decade of graduates was represented, and 11 of the 21 Boston-area appointees attended. Parents of the graduating Class of 2005 were recognized, too. Nancy Burns, USAFA/CMA was recognized as an honorary chapter member as a tribute to her outstanding and continuous support to the NEAOG throughout many years. The chapter also presented a $5000 check to the Jim Bowman Endowment for Cadet Athletic Leadership. This NEAOG fund is designed to enhance the leadership talents of cadets on and off the athletic fields of victory. The following day, Col. (Ret.) John Kelly, ’65, hosted the chapter’s annual golf tournament at Shaker Hills, the No. 1 public course in Massachusetts. The weather was superb and many graduates and members of the ESC/Hanscom AFB community attended, including Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Tad Oelstrom, ’65; Lt. Gen. Chuck Johnson (Commander, Electronic Systems Center), ’72; G. Wiley Burch, ’59; and event emcee 1 st Lt. Will McKenzie, ’01.

GOAL 9

Assistparents clubs!cadets

North Texas Association

On April 10, the association sponsored a picnic with the USAFA women’s soccer team at the Women’s Intercollegiate Soccer Tournament in Plano, Texas.

Piedmont Chapter (N.C.)

The chapter hosted its third annual cadet appointee luncheon June 16 at a local country club in Charlotte. The chapter will sponsor cadet appointees from the central and western region ofNorth Carolina and the upstate region of SouthCarolina. The luncheon provided the cadet appointees an opportunity to meet other

Top: Brig. Gen. Dana Bom, ’83 (left), and herclassmates. Bottom: Bill Morgan and Gary Fausti from the Class of '65 celebrate Founders Day.

Lempke, ’69

Members ofthe Piedmont Chapter met at a local restaurantto discuss amentAOG election issues.

The Arizona Chapter attheir annual pig roast.

appointees from thelocal area, meet members of the Piedmont chapter, and discuss any concerns regarding their future Academy and Air Force experiences. A current cadet also attended and discussed with the appointees the challenges and they will face in the upcoming months.

AcademyWomen

Join us for the second annual AcademyWomen Symposium to be held Sept. 23-24 at the Womens Memorial in Arlington, Va. Female cadets, midshipmen and graduates from all the service academies, as well as anyone else who’s interested, are invited to join us for an event of inspirational speakers, workshops and panel sessions, as well as the opportunity to meet up with old friends and network with women from all classes of all the service academies. Registration and additional information is available at www.academywomen.org. If you have recommendations for prominent speakers or would like to help, please send an e-mail to feland@academywomen.org.

Silver Falcon

The Silver Falcon Association is a group of retired admissions liaison officers who have

been affiliated with the Academy since 1978 when Lt. Gen. Ken Tallman, then superintendent, announced the associations official charter approval. A majority of the Silver Falcons are retired Air Force Reserve officers who were former leaders in the Air Force ALO program and contacted and counseled students interested in preparing and applying for the Academy. When the officers retired, many joined the Silver Falcons. In September 2004, Bob Peary, the associations treasurer and staffleader, obtained approval from the Silver Falcons to arrange a merger with the Association ofGraduates as an affinity group. The proposal was approved by Jim Shaw, ’67, AOG president and CEO, and the AOG Board of Directors.

In January 2005, the AOG invited the Silver Falcons to join the AOG as an affinity group. One hundred and eighty-five Silver Falcons have joined the affinity group, and, as promised at last years Silver Falcon Reunion, Kirk Brown has volunteered to be the president.

The Silver Faclon’s Web site can be found by visiting www.usafa.org and clicking “Chapter/ Affinity Group Web pages. All Silver Falcons who are active members of the AOG are requested to join theSilver Falcon Web page by logging onto www.usaf.org and clicking “First Time User.” Follow the instructions to register as a member ofthe site. After you register, you’ll

be able to access exclusive, members-only areas ofthe Web site. Also, once you have registered, click “Chapters/Affinity Groups Web Pages” and then select “Silver Falcons” from the drop down menu. Once you reach the Silver Falcon Web page, use your same user name and password to log on into the Silver Falcon’s page. Then click “Join This Chapter.” After you provide all the requested information, you will be a registered member ofthe SilverFalcon Affinity Group. If you have any ideas of what should be contained on our Web page, please send an e-mail to ltckirkbrown@juno.com.

Based on current interest, a Silver Falcon Reunion is tentatively planned for Sept. 8-11 in Colorado Springs. The reunion will coincide with the Falcon football game versus San Diego State. The reunion hotel is the Park Plaza Hotel.

If you plan on attending, please contact Kirk Brown by Aug. 1 at ltckirkbrown@juno.com or 2539 Craycroft Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80920-1423.

Space

The space group is currently re-examining its operating principles, while continuing to stay in touch with space-related activities at USAFA and encouraging dialogue on space issues amongst member and with the USAFA cadets and faculty.

You lead two lives. And each one demands 100% from you. So you need someone fighting for you on the issues that countpay, health insurance, benefits. Rest easy. MOAA has been championing the interests of officers and their families for 75 years. MOAA fights for you in Washington and provides a host of vital resources and benefits that serve the needs of officers and their families. But to remain strong, we need the support of every officer. Why not add your voice to MOAA? Sign up now for the special introductory price of only $12. Join now. Call (866)739-3016 or visit www.joinmoaa.org/usafa.

BY HANK HOFFMAN, ’63

He Flew

He flew. In his younger times he tried to match the grace of the sparrow, darting and flashing, breathlessly and skillfully using the air as a palate to show his joy at performing with such precision. Striving for perfection, he flew.

He flew sometimes as the hawk, soaring and riding the wind, effortlessly scaling the thermals, climbing at will to heights that could only be passion; there, the naked world lay exposed to his marveling eyes. And as the hawk he struck from the sky, casting fire in his righteous anger. Daring his very life, he flew.

He flew as no creature has flown since the beginning oftime. He flewwith such power that the gentle winds tore apart before the fury ofhis transit. The pressure ofhis fullgrown wings squeezed moisture from the humid air and left its own white finger of cloud to mark his path. The air itself shattered before him and screamed in pain. The sound ofhis passage was more than thunder, and it caused theearth and us upon it to tremble. The thrill ofhis flight filled his very soul with life. Supremely, he flew.

And after he passed, the birdsand the jealous planet below paused a long moment in silence, left with only an echo and a memory, before resuming their leaden existence. He flew as none other before; he flew as none to follow. He will fly no more.

Yet still he flies! Look there in the heavens! Just out ofsight in the clouds right before you, he dwells now in the glorious prismatic sunrises and rainbows, in the mysterious beauty of the Northern lights and the breathless green flash at sunset, making his home in the sky he loved so well. Mourn not: the aviator is home! He flies now with God.

H. ThomasAkers, ’59

Tom Akers, a tall, easygoing man with an always ready smile. He was born Oct. 22, 1937 in Los Angeles, Calif, to Howard and Edith Akers and passed away unexpectedly from an infection on Feb. 26, 2005 in Willingboro, N.J.

Tom spent most of his youth in Los Angeles. He graduated from Washington High School where he was a shot putter for the track team. As the first member of his family to go to college, he received a Congressional appointment to the first class at the Air Force Academy. While at the Academy he was active in the cadet choir, soaring club, the varsity track and intramural soccer teams.

Tom met Carolyn Long at a dance held at Bolling AFB for the USAFA cadets during the second Inaugural of President Eisenhower. After his graduation in 1959 Tom and Carolyn were married at Calvary Methodist Church in Arlington, Va.

At Tom’s first base, he was student group commander of the Class of 61A in Malden, Mo. where he trained in the T-34 and T-28 aircraft. From there we would go on to train in the T-33, the C-124 and the C-130 at Reese AFB, Tinker AFB and Seward AFB. He flew the C-124 at Charleston AFB for MATS, the C-130 at Anderson AFB for the Weather Reconnaissance Squadron and the C-130 for MAC.

As a loving husband to Carolyn and a loving father to Brad and June, many a Saturday would find him making a complete pancake breakfast for the gang. For fun, he and the children often enjoyed playing mentally challenging math games together.

In the community he served actively as an officer in the Willingboro Jaycees, helped run the local Junior Miss Pageant, was president of the local PTA, belonged to a square dance club, was involved with Marriage Encounter, and helped as a timekeeper for the competitive swimming meets in which his children participated. He was a member of the St. Paul UnitedMethodist Church in Willingboro, N.J.

After military service he worked at the Campbell Soup Company, Camden, N.J. as Ingredient Receiving Manager and later at Johnson & Johnson in New Brunswick, N.J. as administrative assistant to the vice president and as a forms analyst.

In addition to his wife, Carolyn, of 45 years, and children Brad and June, he left two grand children, Melissa and DavidAkers. His mother, Edith, still lives in California.

Tom was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1974. In the early years he often found the disease frustrating, but learned to live with limitations as he progressed from limp, to cane, to wheelchair. He accepted life with grace and dignity - never complaining, still easy going and smiling for his caregiver wife or anyone who served him medically or spiritually. He wore his Academy ring to the end.

(CarolynAkers, his wife)

Two Class of ’01 Graduates Killed in Iraq Aircraft Crash

Capt. Derek M. Argel and Capt. Jeremy J. Fresques, both Class of 2001, died on May 30,2005 as a result of a single engine aircraft accident in Diiyala Province, Iraq. Both graduates were promoted to captain shortly before they left for their mission. Air Force Maj. William Downs and Staff Sgt. Casey Crate, along with an Iraqi pilot assigned with the Iraqi Air Force were also killed in the crash. The cause of the crash was under investigation at press time.

but not forgotten

Gerard B. Finneran, ’59

With cups held high we bid a final fond farewell to Jerry. He died on Dec. 29, 2004 after several years of struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. Jerry hailed from Larchmont, N.Y. Hejoined the Class of 1959 at Lowry after graduating from the Iona Prep School in June 1955.

My earliest recollections of Jerry are those of seeing him coolly leaning on a pair of crutches (sprained ankle?) usually under a cottonwood tree, while the rest of us were being put through our paces out on Buckley’s bombing range. I remember thinking “Now why couldn’t I have thought of that?” A short time later wewere knocking heads ‘on the fields of friendly strife’ while expressing our mutual disregard for each other. By theend ofthat season we had become friends for life.

Classmates may well remember during drill out on the quadrangle various voices urgently commanding, “Finneran stop bouncing”. But how do you suppress the irrepressible? Jerry ‘bounced’ in and out offormation. He ‘bounced’ through life. His years at the academy were full and frolicsome. He was athletically adept and academically gifted.Taking the vicissitudes of academy life in stride he was always a welcomed presence wherever he ventured.

Shortly after graduation, Jerry, assigned to AF Intelligence, earned his MBA from the University ofMichigan while continuing to court and wed Judy, his chum and sweetheart from high school days. Soon Jerry and Judy found themselves at language school studying French. Then, as the Air Force is wont to do, they were assigned to tours of duty in Germany and Greece. All that language training and exposure to Europe led to Jerry’s being recruited by Citibank’s European Division.

In 1965 Jerry left active duty. He first took up residence in London and then theChannel Isles opening and managing Citibank’s first subsidiary there. Jerry returned to NewYork in 1973 to run Citibank’s LatinAmerican International Bank. By 1983 he was a SeniorVice President with worldwide investment banking responsibilities. Jerry joined Drexel Burnham in 1985 and established their Latin American Division. During the 1900s Jerry headed a several hundred million dollar fund specializing in LatinAmerican debt and equities.

Throughout the years Jerry stayed interested and conversant with the Air Force and defense matters. He was especially proud and supportive of the Air Force Academy. He and Judy became, very early on, life members and strong advocates of the Sabre Society. Until his illness intervened they were frequent participants in Academy Functions.

Over the course of a lifetime you don’t often meet a walking, talking bundle of exuberance compressed into one six-foot frame of urbane witty humanity. Such was Jerry. He reveled in meeting life head on, readily facing any challenge it might present.

’59ers knew Jerry as companion and classmate; I knew him as friend and confidant. We wish him God speed and, Jerry, you did not, “... go gentle into that good night...” (Michael Reardon/59)

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

www.usafa.org

Tom Akers

JerryFinneran

Robert S.E, ’59, andMarie G.Jennings

The class of 1959 lost its most “Spirited Couple” on February 15 when Bob and Marie started one of their many exciting journeys. In this case, the excitement was tinged with joyful anticipation because they would be visiting their son Bob, his wife, Sandy, and their youngest grandson, Jack. Unfortunately, their journey was cut short only 30 miles fromtheir home in Carlsbad, Calif, by a fatal automobile accident, which also took the life oftheir oldest grandson, David. He was living with his grandparents while attending Mira Costa College in Oceanside, Calif. He was planning to transfer to the University of California, San Diego, to prepare for a career as a surgeon. He leaves behind his parents, David and Kristi, and sisters, Jessica, Jennifer, Erika and Larissa.

Bob and Marie met shortly after our class arrived at the interim site of the AFA in Denver, Colo. In fact Marie’s bouncy and adventurous personality was the perfect complement to Bob’s serious and quiet demeanor. It was love at first sight! They, also, were doing something very right because they were blessed with over 45 years of “crazy in love” marriage, raised three wonderful children, Bob, David, and Sheryl, and enjoyed six beautiful grandchildren. Bob and Marie were fabulous parents and grandparents, active in their children’s lives. This past June 6th Bob and Marie did more than celebrate their 45* anniversary; they shared their special day forever with daughter Sheryl and son-in-law Sean McGurk. A great time was had by all; family, friends and ’59er’s.

BobJennings

Bob and Marie’s first assignment was at BartowAFB, Fla. where Bob attended pilot training. Bob graduated in the top of the class just as he had done at the Academy. In the first week at Bartow, Marie walked into Linda and H. T. Johnson’s tiny abode, introduced herself, and said, “We have to have a party.” From that time on, she was on a Mach 2 track to Air Force entertaining.

After a tour in F-102s in Okinawa they moved to Vance AFB in Okalahoma where Bob was assigned as an instructor pilot in T-38s and so was I. We really got to know Bob and Marie and their wonderful family. While we were at Vance, Bob taught me to fly upside down in formation. So much for Bob being a quiet, serious guy all the time!

Bob then flew F-4s in Vietnam where he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with two oak leaf clusters and the Air Medal with 11 oak leaf clusters. Marie and the children stayed in Denver with her parents. Following Vietnam, Bob was one of the first ’59ers accepted into the Aerospace Research Test Pilot School and then was assigned to 4950th Test Wing at Wright-Patterson AFB in Dayton, Ohio.

Their next move was Springfield, Va. Bob was the perfect officer for fighting the budget battles in the Pentagon and with Congress. Marie also began to work as a civil servant for the Department of Defense. After their tour in Washington, D.C. they returned to Dayton and Bob became the Program Director for the C-5B and C-17 aircraft. After 27 and a half years, Bob retired from the Air Force but continued to use his expertise in engineering management by working for Battelle Memorial Institute. Later, Northrop Grumman was starting the B-2 Program andneeded Bob’s management talents so they moved to Southern California and Marie got her Dream Home. Some time later, Bob decided it was time for a career change and talked me and Bob Chepolis into joining him in the challenge of teaching “at risk” students at Hollywood High School.

Finally, we all moved to Carlsbadand Carol and Marie got Dream Homes. We followed Bob and Marie through Greece, Turkey, France,

Spain, and Portugal. It was the greatest! We really miss them. Bob and Marie magically touched the lives of all of us. We join with all of their families and with all our classmates in sorrow over this untimely and tragic accident. We also join them in the comforting expectation that we will meet Bob and Marie in a better time and place. (Larry

RogerE. Schemenaur, ’59

Thomson, ’59)

Roger Schemenaur, age 69, passed away Sunday, Jan29, 2005, in Arlington Texas. Roger was born Aug 7,1935, in Berwyn, Ill. to Edwin and Frances Schemenaur. Roger had two careers since graduation from Marcellus High School. The first was as a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force and the second as a software and a systems engineer working for defense contractors.

Roger graduated in the first class of the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo, as a rated navigator. He then went through pilot training at Moore AB in Mission, Texas and GreenvilleAFB, Mich. After receiving his pilot’s wings he chose F-100 FighterTraining at Luke AFB, Ariz. and Advanced Fight Training at Nellis AFB. Nev.

Roger’s permanent assignments included Cannon AFB, N.M. as a F100 Combat Ready Fighter Pilot and Jump Qualified Forward Air Controller (he went through the Airborne Training at Fort Benning, Ga. as an Air Force Officer); Misawa AB, Japan as a F-100 pilot and Nuclear Bomb Commander; England AFB, La. as a F-100 pilot and Jump Master Qualified ForwardAir Controller; BienHoa AB, Vietnam as a F-100 Combat Crew member; LukeAFB, Ariz. as a F-100 Gunnery Instructor Pilot; Fort Hood, Texas as the Fighter Liaison Officer to III Corps and Fort Hood; Korat AB, Thailand as an A-7D Sandy Pilot; Langley AFB, Va. as a staff officer responsible for the equipping and training of all Tactical Air Command Forward Air Controllers; HowardAFB, Canal Zone as a Squadron Commander and Assistant Director of Operations; Munoz ANGB, Puerto Rico as the SeniorAir ForceAdvisor to the Puerto Rico Air National Guard (A-7D); and Scott AFT, Ill. as the Tactical Air Command Liaison Officer to Military Airlift Command.

Roger’s temporary duty assignments were too numerous to last. One of the more interesting ones was when his unit was deployed to the Philippine Islands. When he landed at Clark AB they pulled his luggage out of the gun bays where he had stored them and loaded live ammunition as he was parking the aircraft. After a short briefing he deployed a contingent to Da Nang AB Vietnam. The next morning he participated in the first Air Force strike into North Vietnam and was filmed by national news during the briefing for the mission. His wife saw him on television but did not believe it because she though he was in the Philippine Islands.

His decorations include the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, 13 Air Medals, and two Meritorious Service Medals, among others.

During his last assignment he obtained a computer science degree from McKindree College in Lebanon, Ill. After he retired from the Air Force in January 1985 he sought and found a job as a software engineer with Grumman Aerospace in Bethpage, N.Y. (Long Island). After two years of high taxes, crazy traffic and the high cost of everything, he found a job with LTV in Grand Prairie, Texas as a system performance engineer working on the Tri-Service StandoffAttack Missile for the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). After seven years he then worked as a system engineer on the Army TACMS Block IA and Block II missiles and then as lead engineer on the Interim Position

RogerSchemenaur

Determining System (IPDS) M270 Launcher. He then ended up as a Software Test Engineer doing system level testing on engineering software for the new M270 A1 MLRS Launcher. He retired form Lockheed Martin Missilesand Fire Control Dallas on 1 May 2003.

He married Judy Case from Denver, Colo, the day he graduated from the Air Force Academy. [Editor's note: Since this article was written, we havelearned thatMrs. Schemenaurpassed awayin earlyJune, 2005.] It took a lot for Judy leave family and friends and start a new life not knowing where you would be going or even have any say in the decision. Judy raised their three sons and followed him all over the world. She survived numerous temporary and permanent remote tours, the loss of friends in training accidents and from combat. She did not complain when he volunteered for a Vietnam Combat Tour after spending seven of the previous nine months on remote temporary duty. His three sons are now married and Roger and Judy have seven grandchildren who live within 15 minutes of them. Any memories or stories can be sentto rogerschemenaur@sbcglobal.net. (Roger Schemenaur, his son)

GeorgeE. Kern, ’63

George E. Kern, age 64, passed away on Oct. 26, 2004 in Allentown, Pa. He was born in Buffalo, N.Y. and is survived by his wife, Ellen, son Rustin, granddaughter Sarah, sister Sue, brother Michael and stepmother Adele.

Some people experience a defining moment in their life: a moment where it just doesn’t much matter what came before. George’s defining moment was May 2, 1994 when he had a massive stroke while undergoing surgery, suffered major impairments, and began a tenacious and courageous fight to recover.

He never gave up and he never gave in. His perseverance provided an example of hope to other patients. George volunteered for Good Shepherd Rehab Hospital as long as his health allowed. AH who encountered George were inspired by his fighting spirit.

George defied each and every doctor’s expectations and dire predictions. Eventually, he was able to read at an eight-grade level, write short stories, draw pictures and beat his wife on a regular basis at Scrabble.

Each victory was hard won and the result of painstaking work. Throughout the last 11 years, he never lost his sense of humor or his sense of wonderment.

Always the devoted husband and father and faithful friend, George proved daily that one is never too sick or too tired or too old to learn.

Class of ’63, he did you proud. Ad novus mundos, George! (Ellen Kern, George’s wife)

Ronald G. Bliss, ’64

We all lost a hero on Feb. 8, 2005 when Ron Bliss passed away after a six-year struggle against cancer. I was with Ron about 10 days before his death. We spent several hours talking about life and death. He told me he was going to ask St. Peter two questions when he arrived at the gates of heaven: “Was I a good man?” and “Did I make a

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

difference?” No doubt St. Peter’s answers to both were positive. Ron was one of the best, and he made a great difference in the lives of everyone he touched.

After pilot training Ron went to Nellis for his F-105 checkout and then headed for Takhli, Thailand. He was shot down over North Vietnam on his 37^ mission and spent the next six and a half years as a POW. Many of us wore his name on a copper bracelet during those years. His wife, Charlene, and son Erik rejoiced when on March 4, 1973 he was released and rejoined his family. A second son, Jason, was born shortly thereafter.

After returning from Hanoi, Ron gave the Air Force another chance, but it was not to be. He said that he had already done everything in an airplane one could wish for, and he opted for a second career as a lawyer. Ron was hired by the prestigious Houston firm Fulbright & Jaworski, quickly became a partner, and was the guiding force behind the development of thefirm’s intellectual property division into an internationally recognized force of 130 attorneys. If the Air Force was Ron’s first family, Fulbright & Jaworski became his second family. When Ron was diagnosed with cancer six years ago, he didn’t take it personally. He considered it just another challenge, like his time in Hanoi, that he and Charlene would endure and defeat. The staff at M. D. Anderson became Ron’s third family and togetherthey engaged the new enemy. Initially it looked like the battle had been won, but the cancer returned over a year ago. In spite of his pain, Ron was always positive and an inspiration to all of us. He went on with his life the only way he knew how - full speed ahead.

Ron attended our 40th reunion in September last year. Who will ever forget Harry Pearce’s emotional presentation delivered via the telephone when Ron’s name was the first of 10 POWs from ’64 to becalled? Aftermuch prodding, Ron and five other former POWs from ’64 stood together on the floor to receive a standing ovation from the class. Ron later talkedabout howmuch that evening meant to him. He said that the finest honor a man can receive is the respect of his peers. While this was true that evening in September, in a greater sense Ron Bliss had no peers.

19th Squadron Class of ’64 came together in Houston in late January of this year for what was to be a final visit with Ron. None of us will forget his positive spirit and the sense of peace that radiated from this amazing individual.

Ron was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery on March 4,2005, the 32nd anniversary of his release from Hanoi. While not planned in advance, Charlene was sure that Ron had orchestrated this auspicious timing from his new home.

Many at Ron’s memorial service in Houston and again at his funeral in Arlington were touched by the comments of one of Ron’s colleagues from Fulbright & Jaworski who read a tribute from the popular novel Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry that was carved by the principal character on the gravestone of a fallen comrade. All who knew Ron can make their own slight changes to these words to reflect Ron’s impact on their lives.

Served with me for 30 years

Twenty-one engagements against the Comanche and Kiowa Cheerful in all weathers

Never shirked a task

Splendid behavior

“Was I a good man?” “Did I make a difference?” Ron, the rest of us

GeorgeKern

Ron Bliss

only hope to be half the man you were. We all thank you for touching our lives and showing us what it means to live life to the fullest. (Mike Robbinsand the rest ofthe ’64 Playboys of19th Squadron)

GaryF. Mills, ’65

Gary Frederic Mills of Grants Pass, Oregon, passed on Wednesday, Jan.26, 2005 at Three Rivers Community Hospital of a heart attack. No memorial services were held. Mills was 61.

Gary was born on Jan. 14, 1944 in Boston, Mass. He was raised in Long Beach, Calif, and graduated with distinguished honors (24 th out of a class of 517) from the Air ForceAcademy in 1965. He received his master’s degree in economics from U.C. Berkeley in 1966 where he met and married Helene Buckmaster.

He served three years in Plans and Operations at the Pentagon during theVietnamWar. He worked 18 years at The Rand Corporation, a think tank in Santa Monica, doing cost analysis, and five years for Hughes Helicopters in management.

Gary and his wife came to Grants Pass (where she was raised) in 1992. He assisted in the business “Great Looks” until they bothretired in 1999. He was an active member of the Christian Science Church and loved computers and animals.

The Rogue Valley Humane Society has a received a large donation from the family to allow them to do needed landscaping and build a gazebo in Gary’s memory. It will allow prospectivedog-adopters to spend time with the pet in a beautiful environment. Wildlife Images also received a large donation for construction of a bear enclosureone of Gary’s favorite animals. He would love all this.

His ashes were scattered on our property - out in the wilder sections where we had so muchfun cutting brush.

Gary’s wife survives him. His parents, Ruthand Fred Mills, predeceased him. (Helene Mills, his wife)

Kenneth H. Little, ’69

Kenneth Harlan Little was born Oct. 1, 1945, the son of the late VO. Little and Dorothy F. Little. Kenneth attended CharlesYoung Elementary School, Taft Middle School, McKinley High School and George Washington University. He graduated from the Air Force Academy in 1969.

While at the Academy, Kenneth enjoyed being the head cheerleader and particularly enjoyed participating in the Wing Open Heavyweight Boxing Championship (which he won with Jimmy Love in his corner).

Kenneth served in Vietnam reaching the rank ofcaptain. After completing his Air Force service in 1974, Ken remained on the West Coast in California for several years forming his company, “Light Ray Photography”. He worked at Universal Studios as an assistant producer, was the photographer for “AH” Beauty magazine, and won TheWedding Photographers ofAmerica award in 1976.

After returning to his home inWashington, D.C., Kenneth worked as a producer for Howard University Television and continued his work in photography. He kept in touch with his senior class roommate, William Johannes, and enjoyed his many conversations with Bill and his wife, Maureen.

Kennethtraveled widely having visited practically all of the European countries, Scandinavia, the Middle East, the Far East and even revisited the area where he was stationed in Thailand.

He leaves to cherishhis memory a loving mother, Dorothy; his aunts Helen Johns, Ruth Little, Mary Little, Thelma Little, Miriam Little, Grace McAllister, Thelma Mitchell, and a host of cousins, other relativesand friends. Kenneth’s inurnment was at Arlington National Cemetery on Feb. 16, 2005. (His mother, Dorothy F. Littie)

Dayton B. Webb, ’70

Lt. Col. (Ret) Dayton B. Webb, Class of 1970, passed away peacefully at home in Reston, Va. of esophageal cancer on March 4, 2005 surrounded by his family. He fought the disease with chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, but it was too late to win that battle. He worked for Genworth Financial and everybody loved him.

Dayton had served as a KC-135 pilot and instructor in the 509* Air Refueling Squadron at Pease AFB, N.H. before transferring to Plattsburgh AFB in 1982 where he assumed aircraft maintenance and instructor pilot duties. He also served a tour at YokotaAB, Japan as an Operations Plans officer. He earned a master’s degree in business administration from Golden Gate University in San Francisco.

During his operational years he traveled widely, and this continued after he retired from the Air Force. In 1994, heand his family moved to Montreal, where Dayton hadtaken a job with Bombardier Aerospace as director of Regional Aircraft Training. There he worked on the training program for pilots of the newly-introduced Canadair Regional Jets.

In 1998 he continued his association with aviation by joining the PanAm International Flight Academy where he was vice president for Regional Aircraft Training. Most recently, however, he found a calling in long-term care insurance - a growing issue for our generation. He also revealed a serious talent for working with stained glass, as well as a penchant for burning up the pavement on thebike trails in and around Reston.

He is survived and deeply mourned by his wife of 34 years, Karen, and a daughter Jena, who is engaged to be married in the fall. (Karen Webb andJim Watters, ’70)

MerrittJ. Brown, ’74

Lt. Col. (Ret) Merritt J. Brown, Class of 1974, passed away Friday morning, Jan. 28,2005 in Reston, Va. after a heroic battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born on Aug. 22, 1952. During his 20 years as an active and Reserve C-141 pilot, Merritt was known for his professionalism, excellent judgment and skill as a pilot, aircraft commander, airline captain, and his kindness, easy goinggenuine nature and good humor as our friend.

Merritt grew up in Mitchell, S.D. and carried with him the solid, conservative core values characteristic of his Midwest home. He loved returning to Mitchell each year with his family to visit relatives, play golf, and hunt. After graduating from 11th Squadron at the Air Force

GaryMills

Ken Little

Dayton Webb

Academy in 1974, Merritt entered pilot training at Reese AFB, Texas where he won the Flying Training Award for the best flying performance in his pilot training class. Assigned to Travis AFB, Calif, in the 86th MAS, Merritt flew the C-141 as aircraft commander on strategic airlift missions around the world. He left active duty in 1980, moved to an Air Force Reserve unit at Travis AFB, and began a commercial flying career with Air Florida. Merritt was hired at US Airways in 1983 and settled in the Washington area. He continued to serve his country by joining the 756 lh Military Airlift Squadron at Andrews AFB, Md. and was activated with the unit throughout Desert Storm in 1990 and 1991. He remained with the 756"’ MAS until retiring as a lieutenant colonel after 20 years of service.

In addition to his commercial and Air Force flying career, Merritt was a devoted and loving father, very active in his family and community life. In 1984 Merritt met and fell in love with Mary Bellini, a flight attendant with US Airways. Merritt saw in Mary a truly wonderful person whose boundless capacity for love, tenderness, compassion, devotion, cheerfulness and good humor were the qualities he looked for in a wife and mother of his children. They were married in June, 1985, and have four children: Melissa,

“R. O.” Barton, One of Academy’s First Air Officers Commanding, Dies

Raymond O. “R.O.” Barton, Jr., (USMA ’48) who was the Air Officer Commanding for one of the first Air Force Academy squadrons, died on Nov. 10, 2003 in Augusta, Ga. Barton was hand picked by the first Academy commandant to be the first AOC of 1 st Cadet Squadron, and then AOC of 5"’ Cadet Squadron. He also authored the original Cadet Regulation Manual.

Barton was assigned to the first commandant’sstaff at the newlycreated Air Force Academy where he played an integral part in developing the concepts for training cadets and the rules, regulations and facilities to implement them. His personality and leadership had a significant and lasting impact on the inaugural class to enter the academy in 1955 andthose that followed.

He was tough, fair and never compromised the standards and principles he taught. He won the cadets’ respect, admiration and loyalty. They contacted him for adviceand guidance throughout his life.

Barton spent 10 years in the Air Force. Prior to his assignment to the Academy, he won his wings and, to his great chagrin, was assigned to a troop carrier outfit. He wanted to fly fighters, so he managed to get transferred to a fighter unit, loved it, and was exceptionally good at it. He participated in the first fighter flights across both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and was involved in the development of in-flight refueling. He flew 100 F-86 missions in Korea and was credited with shooting down three MIGs and damaging seven.

After Korea he was assigned to the Air Force Academy. After his work at the Academy he took an assignment with a fighter squadron in Europe, tendered his resignation, and left the service. His decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Air Medals, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and various service and unit awards. (Excerpted from an obituaryin the January/February2005 ‘‘Taps’’ section of West Point’s Assembly magazine written by Gen. [USAF, Ret] HenryWarren, USMA Class of’45. General Warren was also a memberof the originalAcademystaffand thefirstAOC of3rd Squadron.)

Steven, Amy and Brian. Merritt was immensely proud of his children, and for good reason. They are bright and talented; the girls beautiful and the boys handsome. A talented athlete himself, Merritt believed athletics could teach young people important lessons for life. For 10 years, from 1994 until 2004, Merritt coached his children’s soccer and basketball teams, introducing a great many youngsters to competitive athletics. His approach to coaching was to teach the fundamentals, make sure his players were prepared and had fun. In the process he also taught them lessons of commitment, teamwork and sportsmanship. Merritt was an outstanding golfer with a personality well suited for the game: he was confident, easy going, patient and precise. Some of what made him a good golfer also made him a good pilot.

With Mary’s help and devoted care Merritt confronted pancreatic cancer with his characteristic strength, courage, determination and dignity. During hisillness he met visitors to his home or the hospital with a cheerful smile, never complaining, always interested in his company and his friends, and with his trademark sense of humor. Although in Octoberhis illness was taking his strength and stamina, Merritt attended the class of74 30th reunion with his family. He was very proud ofbeing a graduate and walked all over the campus, proud to show his family the Academy grounds. He especially enjoyed seeing so many good friends at the reunion. The life long bonds of friendship formed at the Academy meant a great deal to Merritt, and he was proud to introduce Mary and his children to his squadron and classmates. Merritt’s life was too short, but it was complete. He is missed by many family, friends, and colleagues. Merritt left an enviable legacy a wonderful family and many great memories and so he greatly enriched us all. (Jeff Overton, ’74, and Jim Tietjen, ’74)

Steven R. Ritz, ’74

Steven Robert Ritz, a member of the Class of 1974 died on Sept. 20, 2004, after a year-long battle with cancer of the esophagus. Steve lived in Fayetteville, N.Y. with his wife, Susie (McDougal). Fie was the father of Nicholas (wife, Jennifer) of Kittery, Maine, Jeremy of New York, N.Y., and Kathryn of Fayetteville. He had one granddaughter, Madison.

Steve was the son of the late Robert and Phyllis Ritz of Scottsville, N.Y. He graduated from Wheatland-Chili High School and Mansfield State College. He attended the USAFA prepschool. At the Academy, Steve was a member of CS 39 and a civil engineering major. He attended pilot training at Webb AFB, Texas. He served tours of duty at K.I.Sawyer AFB as a B-52 pilot, VanceAFB as an instructor pilot and Griffiss AFB as an ACE detachment leader. He served for two years at the American Embassy in Amman, Jordan.

Steve was employedby Lockheed Martin Radar Division as a systerns manager. He served as a United Way Loan Executive. Steve received his master’s in Human Resources from Chapman University. He was noted for his sense of humor and his integrity. He was an instructor in Career Development.

He volunteered with many organizations including Habitat for

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

www.usafa.org

Steve Ritz

Humanity, the Boy Scouts of America and the Syracuse Samaritan Center (a soup kitchen). He also was a board member of Toastmasters International. Steve and Susie will receive the 2005 Unsung Hero Award from Samaritan Center, for their work with the young people who serve at the center. (Mrs. Susie Ritz)

William F. Thompson,’75

William F. Thompson, 51, was born June 30, 1953 in Ketchikan, Alaska and passed away at home on Feb. 3, 2005 after a courageous battle against cancer.

Bill graduated from Mountlake Terrace High School in 1971. Four months before graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1975, Bill met Carol Fisher and two months after graduation they were married. Bill was sent to Webb AFB, Texas for pilot training. From there, he flewA-7s at England AFB in Louisiana.

On Oct. 24th 1977 his son Lance was born at St. Francis Cabrini Hospital in Alexandria. Two years later whenBill was flying 0-2s at Wheeler AFB in Hawaii, his daughter Lindsay was born on Dec. 18th at Tripler Medical Center.

Bill’s next assignment was at Nellis AFB, Nev. Flying the plane of his dreams the beautiful F-16. From Nellis he was stationed at Osan, Korea (OV-10), and then at Misawa back in the F-16 cockpit; up north to Elmendorf AFB, Alaska where he flew a desk for four years and sharpened his computer skills. From Alaska Bill was stationed at Reese AFB, Texas as a T-38 Instructor Pilot until he was sent to hislast assignment at Randolph AFB, Texas where he continued to train students in the T-38.

After Bill was diagnosed with cancer in January of 2001, he switched over from a life offlying to a life ofcomputers. In between surgeries Bill mastered the Microsoft Certification Course and became invaluable as a computer software engineer. He was as patient teaching computer programming as he was as an instructor pilot. Bill refused to let his illness hold him back from achieving his goals. He remained on active duty until his retirement on Sept. 8, 2004. He wasan inspiration to all whoknew him and continues to leave his mark upon our lives.

A funeral Mass was held at Our Lady of PerpetualHelp Catholic Church in Selma, Texas. Bill’s ashes were laid to rest at the Air Force Academy on June 9, 2005.

Bill leaves to cherish his memory his wife of29 years, Carol; their son Lance and wife, Chaiki; their daughter Lindsay, husband Justin and granddaughter Annora; his mother, Dorie; sister Diane, brother Dan along with brothers-in-law Gary, Ernie, Larry, Gale; sisters-in-law Nancy, Brenda, Connie, Linda and Cheryl; and their families.

Bill was a loving husband and father, beloved son, brother and friend. We will cherish him by living our lives to the fullest, as he did. (Hisfamily)

Jon R. Turner, ’75

Jon Turner, a husband, father, brother and friend to so many, lived his life knowing that “God would sustain him in all circumstances and will provide him a residence in His presence no matter what.” Jon entered the Lord’s heavenly presence on March 10, 2005 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. He was 52 years old.

Born on April 30,1952 in Inglewood, Calif., Jon entered the Academy in 1971 majoring in aeronautical engineering. He relished his time at USAFA and graduated the top of his major in 1975 with an assignment to Williams AFB for pilot training. His active duty career included fly

ing the T-37, T-38 (FAIPed), and UV-18. After receiving his master’s at Stanford, he spent a tour teaching Aero at USAFA. He then joined the Air Force Reserves and flew C-130s for almost 11 years retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 1997. He was most recendy in his 13th year at United Airlines where he flew the 737,757, and 767 and instructed six years at their training center.

Jon flew his whole career, but that is not what defined him. Growing up as his son, his legacy is etched in my memories and sown in the man he taught me to be. Jon was respected by everyone. Since his cancer diagnosis in September 1994, friends, family, teachers, students, co-workers and acquaintances alike conveyed to Jon and the family what he has meant to them. The themes were clear. He cared about peopleeveryone Jon met left feeling better about themselves. he touched everyone with his charm, leadership and compassion. He lived by excellence and integrity - he demanded the best from himself and others, never compromising who he was. He was everyone’s friend - not just a “hi” as he passed kind of friend, but the kind of unselfish friend who genuinely cared about how you were doing, always giving advice, always mentoring. The kind of friend that you just feel blessed knowing, but his pleasure was really getting to know you. He was a Man of God - Jon loved the Lord anddesired to grow daily, if you talked to him for more than five minutes, you would know to Whom his heart belonged.

Jon is survived by his loving bride of almost 30 years, Diane; sister Pam; daughter Jill and her husband, Scott Bradley (’01); son Ric (’03) and his wife, Mhari; nd grandson Trevor Bradley. A wonderful memorial celebrating John’s life was held March 14,2005 followed by a burial at the Air Force Academy with military honors.

If you asked Jon what he enjoyed, he’d say flying, USAFA football games, anything patriotic, and the mountains of Colorado. If you asked him what he loved, he’d say his wife, children and grandson and spending “quality time.” If you asked him who he was, he’d say a Follower ofChrist. Dad, we knowyou are now in His presence. Thank you for the legacy you left us with. Thank you for how you lived and what you stood for. Thanks for being my “wingman.” Thank you from everyone for being you... we miss you. (Son, Ric Turner, ’03)

RichardR. Horning, ’79

Richard Horning left us on Jan. 9, 2005 after courageously battling esophageal cancer for over two years. Rich was born on Feb. 3,1957 in Garfield Heights, Ohio. Academically and athletically gifted, Rich was a three-timeletterman in both cross country and track was the co-captain of the 1973 and 1974 Brecksville Senior High Cross CountryTeams. His team mates voted him the Coach’s Award for Leadership his senior year. Rich was a member of the Key Club and the National Honor Society and represented hisschool at Buckeye Boys State and the YMCAYouth in Government. Rich was active in the Boy Scouts attaining the rank of Eagle Scout with four palms; he was also a member of the Order of the Arrow.

Rich enteredthe Air Force Academy in July 1975 with the Class of 1979. Having always been a free spirit, Rich often said learning to do things the Academy way and following orders were his greatest challenges. Rich was awardedthe Air Force Commendation Medal and the Boy Scouts ofAmerica Medal ofMerit for saving a woman’s life while on a sponsor trip to Grissom AFB, Ind. Rich was a good student having

Bill Thompson

Jon Turner

been named to the Dean’s list three times; in May 1979 he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Astronautical Engineering.

Rich’s first assignment after basic pilot training was as a KC-135 copilot at Loring, Maine. He was described as fullof enthusiasm, possessing inquisitive energy an eye for detail along with a full and thorough understanding of Air Force regulations and directives. Rich earned the 8 th Air Force Blue Ribbon CrewAward and his crew was the only one to earn the SAC Master CrewAward during a round of evaluations. He was selected for the Accelerated Copilot Enrichment (ACE) Program and the KC-135A Standardization/Evaluation Copilot Training Program. Rich completed instructor pilot training and was a T-38 instructor pilot at Williams AFB. Noted for his patience, motivational and communication skills; he was frequently assigned the students having trouble with the program. His final assignment was as an ACE pilot at Offutt AFB in Nebraska where in addition to his normal flight duties, Rich heldalmost every job in the unit. Rich left the Air Force in November 1986 and moved to Salt Lake City to fly for Western Airlines which was soon purchased by Delta.

In 1988 he met Sandra Covington and they were married in June 1990. Soon after, they relocated to Peachtree City, Ga. where he flew 737s. Rich made Captain in December 1997 and was a Line Check Airman, training and certifying new Captains and First Officers.

In August 1996, Rich and Sandy adopted their daughter Sheridan from Guilin, China. Rich’s life revolved around his family and community. He volunteered at his daughter’s school and was an assistant coach

Rich Horning

William T. Seawell, Academy’s Third Commandant, Dies at 87

Brig. Gen. (Ret) William T. Seawell, who served as the third Air Force Academy Commandant of Cadets from June 19,1961 to Feb. 28,1963, died on May 20, 2005 in Pine Bluff, Ark. He was 87. After retirement from the Air Force, he served as president and chairman of the nowdefunct Pan American World Airways. His military career spanned from 1941 to 1963. DuringWorld War II he served with the U.S. Army Air Corps, beginning as a squadron commander and rising to command of a bombardment group. He was heavily decorated, receiving the Silver Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross with three oak leaf clusters, the Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, and the Croix de Guerre with palm awarded by France. After the war he commanded several units and served as military assistant to the secretary of the Air Force from 1958 to 1959 and then as military assistant to the deputy secretary of Defense from 1959 to 1961 when it took over as Academy commandant.

Following his retirement from the Air Force in 1963, Seawell was hired by the Air Transport Association as its vice president of operations and engineering. Moving to NewYork in 1965, he joined American Airlines as senior vice president for operations, later serving as president of Rolls Royce Aero Engines, the United States subsidiary of Rolls Royce Ltd.

In 1971 hejoined PanAmericanWorld Airways as president and chief operating officer, becoming chairman of the board and chief executive officer in 1972 and serving in that post until 1981. In his home state, he was inducted into the Arkansas Aviation Hall of Fame.

Seawell is survived by his wife, Judith, son Alexander, Daughter Anne and four grandsons. (Excerptedfrom an Associated Press article.)

on his daughter’s soccer team. Rich was also active in the Peachtree City Running Club logging many volunteer hours, earning the coveted 1,000-mile award eight consecutive years to include 2003 while undergoing chemotherapy. He also served as the 1999 and 2000 Peachtree Classic Race Director. Rich became a dedicated marathon runner, often placing in his age group and completing the 100th Boston Marathon. In December 2004 he was one of the first inductees in the PTRC Hall of Fame and the club dedicated a memorial water fountain in his honor along one of the city’s running trails in April 2005.

In October 2002 Rich was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer with a prognosis of less than one year to live. Despite the devastating news, Rich fought the cancer with the same determination and can-do spirit he demonstrated for life. He continued his running, volunteer and coaching activities and also began working with other cancer patients offering encouragement and information as ‘one who had been there’. Always patriotic, Rich coordinated a number of activities in support of soldiers deploying to the Gulf and military families in the area.

In recognition of his community involvement while battling cancer, Rich was selected as an OlympicTorch Bearer as it was carried through Atlanta in June 2004.

Rich is survived by his wife, Sandy; daughter Sheridan;father, Leonard; and brothers Len and Jeff. (Len Horning)

LeeR. Carson, ’81

On Jan. 7, 2005 Lee Carson suffered sudden cardiac death due to myocardial infarction. He was born March 3, 1959, in Chicago, Ill. to Robert and LoisCarson. His family moved to California before the end of that year. As a boy, Lee was an active member of the Boy Scouts of America, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in 1974. In 1977, he graduated from Troy High School in Fullerton, Calif, and was appointed to the United States Air Force Academy. Lee graduated with a Bachelor ofScience degree in BusinessAdministration in 1981.

Lee excelled in undergraduate pilot training at Williams AFB, Ariz. From 1983 to 1986, Lee flewA-7s as a project season officer with the 178 th Tactical Fighter Group in the Springfield, Ohio Air National Guard. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio in 1986. From there, Lee moved to Nellis AFB in Las Vegas, Nev. where he flew A-7s Lee Carson with the 4450th Tactical Group. After completing eight years of active duty, Lee resigned his commission to become an AmericanAirlines pilot in 1989. In 1990, he qualified as a flight engineer on the Boeing 727 based in Chicago. Lee transferred to San Francisco in 1991 and qualified on the MD 80 as first officer, a position he held for the rest of his life.

Lee and Tina met at Wright-Patterson AFB where Tina was an active-duty USAF nurse. They were married in Dayton, Ohio in 1986. Lee wasan avid runner, cyclist, and swimmer who enjoyedskiing, scuba diving, and backpacking. Lee is survived by his wife, Tina, and two children, Bennett (7) and Claire (9). Lee was a devoted husband

and fatherwho loved and served his Lord andSavior Jesus Christ in his work life, at church, and at home.

Lee’s incredible life was characterized by his exemplary moral standard. He was a man rich in integrity wholived as an example for others to follow. As a deliberate and logical thinker, Lee naturally made sound decisions. As a friend, Lee always made time for others. As a husband, Lee lovedhis wife dearly and treated their marriage as a union of souls. As a father, Lee played and acted like a kid with his kids, even as he loved and taught them with his incredible patience. As a volunteer, Lee served regularly at church and in his children’s public school. As a professional pilot, Lee safely delivered over a million passengers to their destinations.

Though he lived a life too short in years for those who loved him, Lee lived long enough to figure out what life in this world is about. His close relationship with God shined through to others, andhis peaceful, internal happiness made him a joy to know. We havebeen blessed to know andlove Lee Carson. We will miss the smile on his face and that sparkle in his eye. (Tina Carson and William Umbach ’81)

JaneM.Mengel, ’82

The cherished daughter of Mary Dorn Mengel and LeRoy L. Mengel died on Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2005 at her home in Modesto, Calif.

Jane was born on April 1,1960 in Fond du Lac,Wis. where her two sisters, Kathleen Mengel Flesch andElizabeth Mengel, welcomed her. She soon became a big sister to Mark and Matthew Mengel. Jane was an outstanding scholar and super athlete and was the 1978 valedictorian ofGoodrich Senior High School. Upon graduation, she received an appointment by Senator William Proxmire to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Jane was in the third class of women that was admitted to the Academy. She made the dean’s list every semester. She was also recruited to be a member of the fledgling two-year-old women’s gymnastic team, where she was an invaluable team member and lettered all four years.

On June 2,1982 she graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering with high honors and received her diploma from Vice President George H.W. Bush. She continued her schooling at Undergraduate Navigator Training at Mather AFB, Calif. After earning her navigator wings, she was assigned to Tinker AFB, Okla. and was one of the first female navigators to serve on the AWACS aircraft. She served faithfully and flew all over the world, which included TDYs to Saudi Arabia, England, and Iceland. These missions fueled her love for worldwide travel.

After leaving the Air Force in 1990, Jane joined Boeing Aerospace as a system engineer. She worked on Space Station Freedom in Huntsville, Ala. Jane loved warm weather so it was only natural that she migrated to California. Looking to use her great engineering intellect and to serve others, she went into teaching. She’d be the first to tell you that wasn’t the reason - she’d jokingly say that she wanted a job where you got summers off! For the past 14 years, Jane enjoyed teaching engineering and mathematics as a professor at Modesto Junior College.

Jane truly did enjoy having her summers off! She traveled extensively and often tied her vacation into some sort of athletic trial. An avid biker and traveler, she hiked across America from San Francisco to New Hampshire in 60 days over one summer! She also took many vacations were she hiked through New England, Louisiana, Greece, Italy, and Spain. Jane was an excellent tennis player and also enjoyed a hand of poker.

Furthering her education, she received a Master’s of Engineering from California State University, Sacramento, and was extremely close to completing a Ph.D. in Adult Education through Capella University. She maintained her connection to gymnastics by testing and becoming a respected USGF judge. Her love of the sport and the budding gymnasts led her to spend many hours traveling and scoring their gymnastics meets.

We, Jane’s friends and classmates, will miss her funny emails, phone calls, visits, and of course, her witty Christmas letter, where she regaled us with her wild and crazy exploits from the past year. Jane, you’ll be missed dearly, but our loss is Heaven’s gain - so until we meet again!

Jane’s loss will be most deeply felt by her family: mother, Mary; father, Leroy; sisters Elizabeth and Kathleen; brother Matthew; her six nephews; and her beloved dog Finney. Her brother Mark and her maternal and paternal grandparents preceded her in death. A remembrance celebration of Jane’s life was held on Sunday, Feb. 13, 2005 at the Modesto Junior College East Campus Student Center in the Fireside room. Upon Jane’s wishes, her body was donated for scientific study. Her cremated remains were returned to Wisconsin. (Lovingly written byJane’s family, and 1982 classmates "Jules” Keck, Nancy Kiyota, and Cynthia Mack)

James G. Evans, ’84

On Jan. 25th, 2005, James G. Evans, ’84, ended his 13-year struggle with brain cancer. Jim had a short but rewardingAir Force career. After graduation from the Academy, Jim went to Reese AFB for UPT, became a FAIP flying the T-37 at Vance AFB, and then the KC-135 at Barksdale AFB. After being diagnosed with the disease in 1991, Jim was medically retired from the Air Force and soon after settled in Ogden, Utah.

At a moment such as this, some might have thought their life was over. However, Jim and his wife, Melinda (Mojwid) Evans, ’85, saw neither a “glass half empty” nor a “glass half full”, but rather a future filled with infinite possibilities of happiness,hope, and love. While Jim loved flying and the people he met in the Air Force, he accepted this change and focused his life on the things in lifethat mattered most, and he had no regrets.

Together they lived their lives with a new-found appreciation, enjoying their time with both Jim andMelinda’s families, traveling around the country visiting friends and family, and relishing each quiet moment they had together. Theirlife oflove took on an even greater meaning when they were blessed with two beautiful, strong, courageous, and loving boys, Ty and Tanner.

Jim lived a busy life centered around his family, building two homes full ofwarmth and welcome. He was a lively part of the community as a soccer coach for his boys and he was an accomplished skier who enjoyed skiing the mountains of Utah.

Jim was a family man with a perspective of life and living that few of us could comprehend. He was ironically blessed with the ability to share each moment of each day with Ty, Tanner, and Melinda an opportunity he did not take lightly and a gift of precious value he knew too well. His life, although tragically short at 42 years, was full with laughter and tears, smiles and hugs, friends and family.

While many of us have and will shed tears over Jim’s passing, I now have come to realize his life was something far more than a life cut short. Jim lived a life worth living.

Well done, dear friend. (John Clarke, ’84)

JaneMengel

Jim Evans

Karolen K. Fahrni, ’85

Our friend, Karolen Fahrni, passed away at home Sunday, April 24, 2005 after a long battle with cancer. She was a military veteran, wife, mother, daughter, sister, colleague and, for many, a dear and wonderful friend.

Karolen was born on May 11, 1962 in San Diego County, Calif, but she called Aiea, Hawaii, her home. She was a member of Cadet Squadron 22 and received her commission from the Air Force Academy in 1985. Karolen enjoyed her Prep School experience and as a cadet lovedher intercollegiate gymnastics days where she competed for four years and served as team captain. She treasured her relationships with fellow teammates Terri, Marcie, Cynthia, and roommate Lynn.

Following graduation, Karolen attended undergraduate pilot training at Vance Air Force Base, Okla. After Vance, Karolen had a variety of assignments at several locations including Onizka Air Force Station, Calif.; Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea; Tempelhof AB, Germany; and Offutt AFB, Neb. She returned to USAFA for two assignments where, during her first stay, she was a physical education instructor andwomen’s gymnastics intercollegiate coach. She was also the executive officer in the Department of Physical Education. During Karolen’s second assignment to USAFA, she served as director, command assignments and senior officer matters followed by deputy director of Personnel. Karolen earned several awards throughout her career, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Humanitarian Service Medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal and many more.

It was during Karolen’s tour as the USAFA women’s gymnastics coach the she met her husband, Bob. She later had two children with Bob: her daughter Mikaila and son Justus. Karolen adored and loved her family. She was blessed in many ways, for she knew what was most important in life and she cherished the precious time she had with her children and family.

Karolen enjoyed and pursued her own health and fitness goals while helping others achieve their own aspirations. She loved to ski and go for walks. She also enjoyed cooking, baking for others, and entertaining. One of Karolen’s favorite mottos was, “The more the merrier.” She also had a passion for the real estate market and was quite talented in the art of buying and selling.

As my friend, Karolen was a true joy in my life. I will be forever gratefulfor her kindness, humor, support, generosity, and strength. Nothing could light up my days as fellow USAFA coaches like Karolen bounding into to my office bubbling with the latest news and making me laugh at myself and the latest crazy situation at hand. We later enjoyed many years together as close friends taking many walks, skiing, and watching our children play together.

In February, Karolen and I enjoyed a day skiing together in Breckinridge, Colo. She told me that she wanted me to remember her most in this way on the slopes, deep in the powder, sun shining, and blazing a trail on a double black diamond. I remember that day how

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

Karolen yelled for me to come her way through the trees once again challenging me to better myself and have fun at it! I followed her and watched as her beautiful spirit shined through layers of ski clothes as we were alone together experiencing the beauty of the Colorado Mountains.

Our last conversation together before she died was especially meaningful. Karolen held my hand and told me that she was at peace with God and that she had put her trust in Him and His plan for her. She was grateful for the time that He had given her and thankful for all of the blessings that He had bestowed on her.

Karolen is survived by her husband, retired Lt. Col. Robert Wahl, their children Mikaila and Justus, her parents, retired Marine Lt. Col. Leonard and Helen Fahrni; and brothers, Len and Allen. (Kim [Green] Davis,’88)

Daniel S. Bradford, ’01

Daniel S. Bradford was a graduate of the Class of 2001. He served a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Venezuela between his sophomore and junior years. He made many close friends at the Academy, and our family has been touched by the large number of cards and well-wishes.

Upon graduation, Daniel was assigned to the 34lh Fighter Squadron at Hill AFB awaiting a class date for pilot training. He served as the squadron adjutant and was one flying hour from completing initial flight training when he was diagnosed with brain cancer. After three difficult years of surgery, radiation therapy, an experimental protocol at the U niversity ofCalifornia San Francisco Hospital, and chemotherapy, Daniel passed away in the home of his parents on Feb. 3, 2005. To the very end, he never uttered a discouraged word.

Daniel was the valedictorian of the 1995 graduating class at Green Valley High School in Henderson, Nev. His class rank was 1 out of 681 and he had a GPA of 4.70 in an Advanced Placement/Distinguished Scholar Program curriculum. He played football and wrestled as the team captain, played the piano, and was both an Eagle and Explorer Scout. Daniel’s academic accomplishments were

numerous: Nevada Scholars Award, President’s Award for Educational Excellence, Tandy Technology Scholar, Green Valley Scholar Award, Science Now Scholarship to a university of his choice, winner of the Green Valley science fair, U.S. Department of Energy’s award for the “Outstanding Student in Physical Science for 1994,” Green Valley High School’s Scholar-Athlete Award, Boy’s State Representative, Duty to God Award, On My Honor Award, Gospel in Action Award, and Faith in God Award He learned how to perform hard physical work as a ranch hand and ranch supervisor during the summers.

Daniel’s career objectives were to be an Air Force officer and a fighter pilot. To his family he was the life of the party, always full of humor and testing his buddies’ philosophies. He committed himself to helping others at every opportunity and often sacrificed his private time for a friend in need. His faith in God was deep and abiding. Had he been blessed with the opportunities, Daniel would have made a fine senior officer, husband and father.

Daniel treasuredhis sponsor families while at the Academy. We don’t knowhow we ever could repay them for their unremitting kindnesses toward our beloved son. To his many instructors and AOCs, thank you for your contributions to his growth.

It is a great blessing to be an American.Daniel was a patriot above all, and he would have served his country in any capacity handed to

Daniel Bradford

him. To those of you USAFA graduates who serve on active duty today, the Bradford family wishes you Godspeed.

Daniel is survived by his parents, Col. (Ret) Craig and Sharon Bradford, his brother Capt. Matt Bradford, and his sister Anna-Marie Iacono. (His family)

Shaun P. Brown,'02

l sl Lt. Shaun Patrick Brown, Class of 2002, age 25, passed away on Aug. 23, 2004 as a result of an automobile accident. Shaun was preceded in death by his grandmother, Marvella Munter.

He is survived by his loving fiancee, Sara Martin; mother, Jolene Brown; father, Don (Cyndi) Brown; sister Brandy (Zack) Zielie; brother Cody Brown; special niece Kylee Danielle Zielie; uncle Bruce Alverson; grandparents Emory and Carol Alverson andRobert and Martha Brown; special Air Force parents David and Sandy Ware; and many other family and friends.

Shaun graduated from South St. Paul High School (Minnesota) in 1997 and the U.S. Air Force Academy in 2002. He was a proud C-130 pilot and an accomplished musician who touched many hearts with his music and words.

Shaun’s deep faith guided his life, which he lived with the highest integrity. Shaun’s family and friends were the center of his life. He put more into 25 years than most put into a lifetime.

Shaun, we will love you and miss you always. (His family)

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

1st. Lt. Lee A. Adams, Class of 1963, who was killed in action in Vietnam on April, 19,1966. His remains were repatriated on June 1, 2005 to Willets, Calif.

Col. (Ret) Thomas E. Distelhorst, Class of 1970 who died on June 17, 2005 in Illinois.

Mr. Earl W. Woodard, Class of 1971, who died on March 13, 2005 in Carthage, N.C.

Col. (Ret) Richard A. Kirkpatrick, Class of 1974, who died on March 6, 2005 of lung cancer in Niceville, Fla.

Maj. (Ret) Dennis M. Stockert, Class of 1974, who died on April 12, 2005 in Annapolis, Md.

Maj. (Ret) Charles F. Riordan, Class of 1975, who died on March 22, 2005 in Niceville, Fla.

Mr. Kevin B. Pedersen, Class of 1976, who died on Jan. 19, 2005 in Minnesota.

Maj (Ret) Kevin A. Rank, Class of 1978, who died on April 19, 2005 of Parkinson’s Disease in McRae, Ark.

Lt. Col. (Ret) Ronald K. Rosepink, Class of 1978, who died on March 15, 2005 in a paragliding accident in Tehachapi, Calif. He was missing since June 28, 2003.

Capt. Derek M. Argel, Class of 2001 who died on May 30, 2005 in the crash of a single-engine aircraft during a training mission in the eastern Diyala province of Iraq.

Capt. Jeremy J. Fresques, Class of 2001, who died on May 30, 2005 in the same accident as Captain Argel above.

Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of these graduates and cadet.

Fourth Class Cadet Dies of Apparent Heart Attack after Physical Fitness Test

Cadet Fourth Class Edward Joseph Schmeltzdied on Monday, Jan. 31, 2005 at the United States Air Force Academy. He was 18 years old. The cause was an apparent heart attack following a second semester physical fitness test at the Cadet Field House.

The only son of James and Maureen Schmeltz, Edward Joseph Schmeltz, know as “E.J.,” was born March 1, 1986 and lived all his life in Chatham, N.J. An athlete, an artist and most notably a pilot, E.J. was on the path to realize a lifelong dream, flying for the United States Air Force. Although his time at the Academy was brief, E.J. was a committed cadet, ranking 87th in military prowess and 278 lh in academics of the 1,100 cadets in his class.

E.J. attended Saint Patrick’s School through the eighth grade and wasan active member of the Saint Patrick Parish, serving as a youth ministry counselor and playing the guitar with the musical group “God Unplugged” during masses and celebrations.

“E.J. Schmeltz From an early age, E.J. embraced his love for sports, playing Chatham recreational football throughout elementary and middle school. A standout baseball player, he was a valued member of theChatham All-Star traveling baseball team during middle and high school. E.J. continued to play football and baseball throughout his four years at Chatham High School. Earning letters all four years for the baseball team, E.J. pitched, as well as played first and third base. A three-year letter winner for the football team, E.J. played as a quarterback, receiver and defensive backand was named Co-Captain of the team his senior year.

Voted “most polite” in his senior yearbook, E.J.’s sportsmanship throughout his time at Chatham High School earned him the Anthony Mack Sportsmanship Award in his senior year. It was his talents on and off the field which garnered him Chatham High School’s nomination for Morris County Scholar Athlete of 2004.

In addition to his athletic talent, E.J. enjoyeddrawing, playing the guitar and flying. His love for music prompted him to co-found his High School guitar club. A talented artist, E.J. received the Chatham Woman’s Club Art Award and two “Bell Awards” for outstanding achievement in the arts. Oftenreflected in his artwork, however, was E.J.’s favorite pastime, flying. E.J. began flying at the age of 12 and flew his first solo flight in a Cessna 172 shortly after his 16th birthday. He receivedhis private pilot license at the age of 17.

E.J.’s dream was to take flight for the United States Air Force. Nominated by Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen, E.J. enthusiastically accepted his appointment to the Academy in March 2004. He was inducted shortly after his high school graduation on July 1, 2004. In his first semester at the academy, E.J. was awarded the Dean’s list wreath along with theCommandant’s star for military excellence. A member of Squadron 25, “The Rock Hard Redeye”, E.J. was named squadron cadet of the month twice in his first semester and was once nominated as Wing cadet of the month.

His funeral liturgy was held on Saturday, Feb. 5th at Saint Patrick Church in Chatham, N.J. Nearly the entirefreshman class of the academy’s 25th Squadron raised thousands of dollars in order to attend the funeral. A total of 34 academy cadets attendedthe ceremony. (Leigh Erin Schmeltz, E.J. 's cousin)

Class NEWS

1250 Big Valley Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80919-1015

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

E-mail: petetodd@adelphia.net

The winter of2004-2005 exacted a dreadful toll from the Class of 1959. In a span ofless than three months, we lost five classmates, two spouses and a grandson.Aswould be expectedin our mature group, most ofthelosses were health-related: both Jerry Finneran and Art Shumate succumbed to Alzheimer's disease; TomAkers lost a long and courageous battle with multiple sclerosis; Roger Schemenaurand SandyMaydied from cancer. Butthen came thehorrific, inexplicablehighwayaccident that claimed thelives ofBob and MarieJennings and their grandson, David.Wewill miss all ofthese dear friends.

No one likesfunerals, butthewayBob andMarie’skidshandledthe services at theAcademywas an upliftingexample ofextraordinarygrace under pressure. Everyonein the chapelwas movedbyBobby, DavidandSheryl’s tributes to their parents and bytheir poisewhile delivering them. Bob Oaks, LarryThomson, CraigSchaum, HTJohnson andBob Browningparticipated inthe service.Aso in attendance were Don Brooks, Curtand Avis Cook,JoeandJo DeSantis, IanyFortner, JonandJacquie Gallo, Charlieand Betsy Meier, Max andTrix Miller, John Miltner, Edand LuciaMontgomery, Meland Louise Pollard, Brockand Claire Strom, PeteandWendyTodd, andDickand MarlyssTracey.DickandKennethaGaebler, SteveHardingand Herman Gilsterwere also on hand to paytheirrespects.

Thesemultiplelosses broughtto thefore a problemI’vewritten about previouslyandneed to bringup once again.When a classmate dies, theAOGpublishes an obituaryin Checkpomts, ideallyinthenext issue. Unfortunately, our recent experiencehasbeenthatthe taskofpreparing thesepartingwordshasfallen to familymembers, at a timewhentheyare already verybusyand stressed. Howmucheasieritwouldbeforall concernedifeach of youwould designate someone to writeyour obitwhen the time comes. Even better, write ityourselfnow; at our age, howmany more dragons do we have to slay? Put itinyourfilesandtell someone inyourfamilywhere itis. Ifyouwant to, send it to me and I’ll fileituntil needed. (Yes, I plan to outliveyou!)

Amidall thebad news abouthealth, we had one “nearmiss” thathad a happy ending. PeteWinters wrote: “Kayis recoveringfrom follow-up aorta surgery and mitral valve repair.The emergency repairs that were done following her aorta dissection inNovember2003were notholdingand shewas in danger once more oflosingherlife to an ascending aorta malfunction. It was discovered in timeand she spentfourweeks attheTexasHeartInstitute, whichI highlyrecommend foranyonewith a similarproblem. Dr. JosephCoselli maybe the bestin theworld for aorta repair.Whilehewas inthe area he decided to also repairKay's mitralvalve, whichwas a congenitalproblem, unrelated to the aorta dissection. The good news is that, after a difficult recovery, she is resting at our home in Myrtle Beachandbarringanyfurtherdifficulties, should not need more surgery.

“I retired as the president ofJT3 on December 31 and am consultingwith EG&G, aJT3 owningcompanyandwith some oftheJT3 teammate companies. All is nowwellwith our familyand we should be permanentlyinMyrtle Beach and look for friends to come visit now that we are in one place.”

We recently conducted a Class vote on our ad hoc committee’s proposed methodologyfornominatingand electingClass officers. The measure passed with 121 “yes” votes, one “no” vote, and the remainder abstaining. Accordingly, a nominating committee will be formed and the approvedprocedures will be implemented. The election procedures have been published in the Class website for reference, (http://www.usafaclasses.org/1959)

Late in February, theAcademyhostedits signature National Character and Leadership Symposium (NCLS). Eachyear, the Class of 1959 funds thekeynote speakerfortheNCLS andthisyear’sspeakerwasTommyLasorda. Mr. Lasorda led the Dodgers to eight division titles and two world championships in 21 seasons as their manager. Elected to the National Baseball Hall ofFame in 1997, he also managed the United States to its first-evergoldmedal in baseball at the 2000 SydneyOlympics. His rousing address to the cadets stressed the importance ofself-confidence as a key to winning.

Bob andMarie,

On 30 June, a new Class of 1959 tradition will continue as members of our Classgreet the incomingClass of2009 at the north end ofthe ChallengeBridge. Last year, Jim Brown, MaxMiller and I took turns meetingthe members ofthe Class of2008 as theycompletedin-processing at DoolittleHall. In groups of20, theyapproached the bridge and a 59erexplainedits significance.Amember of theincomingclass then readthe Challenge to his or herclassmates, afterwhich they all turned about to face the memorial wall replicalisting the names of graduates who died in combat. As they crossed the bridge to their buses and their new life, these young men and women were touched by our challenge andvisiblymovedbythejuxtapositionofthe memorialwall.We’dlike to see a largerrepresentation from the Class thisyear and hope this tradition will continue as long as there’s a ’59er standing.

Thoughtfor the Quarter:None of us is promised tomorrow.

Pete Todd

Representing the Class atTommyLasorda’s (center) keynoteaddress were, from left, Bob andRoxann Browning, Maxand TrixMiller, Claire andBrock Strom, andWendyandPeteTodd.

Sabre Society Donors

AJ. (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

If you happened aboard Holland America’s 935’ cruise liner the U.S.S. WesterdamleavingFt. LauderdaleJan. 30* 2005with 1,848passengersandstoppinginCozumel,GeorgeTown, MontegoBay, andHalfMoonCay,returning on Feb. 6th you’ll no doubt have seen William John Kornitzer,Jr.’s family—Bill’s children LindaKollross, Stephen and Bill Kornitzer III, Bill’swife, Linda, andall seven ofKorny’sgrandchildren.What a neat family reunion!

John PeterGonskyandwife, Nancy, celebratedtheir45°’weddiilganniversary with a 10-daycruise on thatvery same U.S.S.WesterdamJune20-30Ul 2005, stop pingin Copenhagen,Talinn (Estonia), St. Petersburg, Helsinki, Stockholmand Visby (Sweden),Wamemunde (Germany) andArthus (Denmark). JohnHenry Huhn, BrianGrant Kaley and 1 were at John’s wedding to Nancy Fitter in Northampton, MA J une 18,1960 at St. John Cantius Church (the story of o ur post-wedding events you don’t want to hear—but, ifyou must, it involves a 2 a.m. altercationin Northampton, with thewell-lubricated owners ofaTriumph TR3-A, JaguarXK150and MCAcoupe racinghell-bentaround— and aiour id— the town squarewith thewedding’s bridesmaids precariouslyensconced atop the seats hoisting bottles ofchampagne, an ensuing car chasebydie local gendarmes, then, a formal escort out-of-townby theChiefMagistrate: “Don’t come backno more!” Formal charges were never filed, and allrecords ofthe incident havebeen expungedfrom theCommonweal.Atleast, drat s our story, andwe’re sdcking to it, as the late-great Seal Huhnwould say).

Fast backwardwith me now then to thatwedding ceremonyitself, during which the priest—FatherSzymczyk—musthave invoked the passage: “Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the earth” (Genesis 9:1 to Noah, or somebody else pretty high up on the biblical food chain). John presumably took those words literally,judgingby the count ofhis 21 clan members: That’s Nancy’s motherwith NancyandJohn in thecenter, theirfourchildren andtheirspouses andall 10 ofthose lovelygrandchildren in the photo. Nice family, John.

frommyimmigrantgrandfather’smispronunciationof‘Chuck’.WhenI received myappointmentto theAcademy, I legallychangedmyfirst name to Jock. I spent juniorhigh and most ofhigh school in Iowa City, whereJerryStackand I went to the same school, and our folks were also friends. He and I took our entrance tests at ChanuteAirBase, andIwillalways rememberthemorningofour physical tests, whenhewoke upwith his arm disjointed. So, I had to pull on his arm while he twisted andpoppedhis shoulderbackinto place!

“Thelast semesterofmysenioryearwe moved and I attendedFranklin High in CedarRapids. There I met Richard Head, the brightest guyin the class. Our parents becameverygood friends. The reason I applied for theAcademy was that mymotherhad read an article in Good Housekeeping about‘TheToughest School in theWest.’When we came to theAcademy it wasn’t longbefore I was approached by several ’59ers Gerry Elsbernd, CV Miller and Pat Musmaker—who made itveryclear cadets from Iowa did not quit. (All ofthe ’59ers from Iowa graduated, all those in ’60 graduated, and, I believe, all the guys in ’61 from Iowa graduated).

“Myrewarding and fun military career was capped-offas Commander of theAcademyPreparatorySchool. A greatjob, and it was a challenge to instill myfavorite saying of‘Don’t Be Dumb’ on a group of 17- and 18-year-olds out on their own forthe firsttime.Afterretirement, I did a stint as Executive Director oftheTeam Handball Federation at the OlympicTraining Center, three years with DenverTechnical College as Vice Chancellor, thenVP ofServices at theAOG for 12 rewarding years (I served as BoardMember, President ofthe Boardand Executive Director while running the Prep School). I now volunteer as TreasurerofThe Friends oftheAcademyLibrary and on the Board ofPikes PeakWater Garden Society.

21 Sabre Society Donors

“Son David (40) runs Colorado Custom Decks in Denver, andhasbeenfeatured in several magazines. SonBlake (39) is a computer wizard with his own successful company and prior to thatdid a stintin theArmy as a 3rd Armored CavalryCompanyExecutive Officer during Desert Storm and was part ofthe lead force into Iraq.

“Mywife, Hope, is the sister ofNeal Reavely, and we met in BigSprings, TX durirrgpilottraining. I askedher to marry me 10 days afterwe met. We have six fishponds in ouryard, and over 47 elves in our basement. The elves, alongwith Hope’s art and a host ofteddybears, have led to some interestingparties over the years (Imagine: Andi Biancur dressed as a monk and marrying a pair of elves, GeorgePupich asa Serbian elfinprince, while Rosie Cler was a natural being a JollyElf). We own 12 acres on a blue ribbon trout stream nestled between a nationalforestand awilderness area inMontana (I can’tfishthe stream anymorebecauseofthe slipperyrocks—myPeripheralNeuropathykeeps my legs from handling the wading). We visit myparents in Flathead Lake, and return to our hillside garden ofpeace in Colorado Springs overlookingthe Academy. Grandchildren Katrina (10), Jessica (6) andAshley (14) live nearby. Life has been good to this old Iowa boy.” End ofthe game at The Field of Dreams” in Dyersville, Iowa.

The Gonsky 21

And now the final installment of “TheBoysfrom Iowa,”thoseAll American JackArmstrongtypes who wore John Deere baseball caps and oftbetraytheir Iowa,roots with expressions like “Put the cows backinthebam. Bottomofthe 9lh Jock Charles Henry Schwank’s in the box...

“I grew up in Iowa, the son of a football coach (honored in the Iowa High School Athletics Hall of Fame, and Coe College Hall of Fame). I was born Charles Henry, butcalledJockfrombirth—afamilynickname that originated

So there you have them Doug Rekenthaler, Jock Schwank, Don Wolfswinkel, RG Head, JerryStack, Gary Crewand George Elsea.When our descendants study 20th Century'America a thousand years from now upon

Visit the AOG’s New and Improved Web SiteMerchandise, Gone ButNot Forgotten and More!

www.usafa.org

Fifteen Kornitzers on theHigh Seas.

BackRow:Blakeand Christie, Hope andJock,JillandDavid;Middle:Jock’s parents, WallyandHelen Schwank; FrontRow: Grandchildren Katrina,Ashley andJessica.

openingthe 2000 Time Capsule,they’llmarvel at the timeless durabilityofthe U.S. Constitution, baseball’s architectural anomaly at FenwayParkin Boston, and bandleader Artie Shaw’s 1938 renditions of Cole Porter’s “Begin the Beguine.” Nowaddto that "TheBoysfrom Iowa."All successful, allwiththeir whipped cream kind oflives.

(Comingin December "TheBoys GrewIn Brooklyn”— Messrs. Walker, Haneyand Fries.)

MiniSkiXVin Salt Lake Cityfrom Feb. 26 thru March 5th includedAndi and Carole Biancur, GregBoyington withJune and daughterTiffany, Chuck and Weesee Holman, George and Diana Pupich, Earl and PatVan Inwegen,Vic Yoakumandfriend Suzanne,A1Johnson,JerrydelaCruz and son Greg, Howe Bronson and Ralph Lalime (Les Hobgoodstayedin SanAntonio to work out on his trapeze).

Old generals are supposed to “JustFadeAway."But not our high-octane and multi-talentedRonYates, stillbusyconsultingfortheaerospaceindustry,workingtirelessly on theAOGBoard,jet-settingoffto theglitzyspas ofEurope—and on April Fool’s Day, he was presentedwith the Distinguished GraduateAward at the 2005 Founder’s Day Dinner (those are his dayjobs). After the picture taking, Ron was seen slippingintoblueSpandextightsafterpiacing apurple Ron his chestand donning a redcape andleapingoff in a singlebound, mindyou —to liberate an entirehemisphereofoppressednationsfromtyranny (hisnight job). Distinguished Graduate: You honor our class, Ron.

‘AllForOne, andOneForAll. (BobBadger, BruceMosier,JohnMcCullough, AndiBiancur,Jim Waddle, WayneKendall, ourDistinguishedGraduate, Steve Bishop, FredPorter, GeorgePupich, andJim Glaza).

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

The March andApril D.C. get-togethers were ’61er good times. Eleven attended in March (CharleyDixon, Steve Ho, Lowell Jones, John Kohout, Ron Mueller, Hector Negroni,TerryNorris, Jim Rogers, Bill Sanzenbacher, Bill Stackhouse, andJohnSullivan) Theda Foster agreed that theycould give Bill a call in his hospital room, and every one ofthem bent his ear for a spell. They couldn’tbelievehowwellhesoundedafterwhathehadbeenthrough. Itsounds like they may get to see Howie Bodenhamer at future ’61er events since he travels to D.C. quite often. April’sget-togethers involved a dinner on 27April at Portners Restaurant to celebrate thevisitbyout-of-townersWayneWhalen (fromChicago), Charlie Thomas (fromAlbuquerque), CharlieStebbins (from WestVirginia), KarlWhittaker (from NewJersey) and Pat Buckley (fromAlbania). Nelson O’Rear (fromIndiana) and the other out-of-townersjoined Bill Foster, Steve Ho, Lowell Jones, John Kohout, Hector Negroni, and Bill Stackhouse forlunch the next daywhen theygathered at Chevy’s Mexican Restaurant in PentagonCity to complete unfinished agendaitems. Theyalso celebrated the return to health by Charlie Thomas and Bill Foster, both of whom underwent majorsurgeries. (JohnMayhas putpictures ofthe attendees of both events, as well as other pictures, on our Class web site: <www.usafal961.infc».)

TheAlabama Musketeers (Westbrooks, Pooles and Cairnses) went to the Destin, FL, beaches thelastweekend inApril as guests oftheWestbrooks.They stayed at a pricey condo in an area generallyhostile to theAlabama Redneck crowd buthad a grandtime anyway. Clyde O’Neal and Gwen“won” three days in the condo in a charity auction bypromising a not-so-small donation to the cause oftheAlabamaShakespeare FestivalTheater. Theysurvivedthe cost of going out for dinner byarriving in time for the Early-Bird two-for-one specials.

Dick Fairlamb is still working as a Business Recovery Consultant and just returned to teachingfor the DisasterRecoveryInstitute International in midApril aftera21/2yearhiatus. He and Sylviatraveled toAustraliainearlyMarch for a familywedding. Dick was lookingforward to the River Rats Reunion in

D.C. during the Memorial Daytime period. He also is going to a 1st Flying Squadron Reunion in North Carolina in mid-month. It’s been 40 years since thatADC squadron was deactivated, and he had to go to Labrador to find anotherAF flyingjob!

InAugust Bill and Linda Griffiswill joint their son ArmyCaptain John Griffis and his family (currentlystationed at Sharm el Sheik, Egypt, as part ofthe internationalpeace-keepingforce) in Orlando, FL for a family reunion and vacation.

Lou Hablas saidthatheand KatevisitedVirginia to see two oftheirgrandchildren receive their First Communion. In earlyMaytheytraveled to the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota where theyhoped to find a hematologistwho can find a cure forKate’s Pure Red Blood CellAplasiasince otherdoctorshavebeen unable to help. At the urging offamilyand friends, theyhave decided to gowhere the “brains” are supposed to be. Theywould appreciate prayers.

Tom Hill is gettingaround much better these daysfollowing hishipreplacement. His goal is to build up to walking a mile or more dailybythe end ofthe summer as his strength returns. He appreciated all the cards and well wishes from everyone, viatelephone, e-mail, and regularmail afterhis surgery. Unfortunately, he inadvertentlydeleted the e-mails on his computerand said that he therefore cannot individuallyacknowledge those good wishes sentvia email. He feelsbadabout itand wants to thankyou and letyou all knowthatthey meant a lot to him and Liz.

Henry Howe pulled the plug on his paidemployment a yearago and is findingit hard to get time for all ofthe new jobs that he has now taken on. It does mean that he gets to see Pete Lane a little more. Henry’s renewed activitywith CivilAir Patrol is getting him activelyinvolved with the Homeland Defense operations andthe CommunityEmergencyResponseTeams. In late Mayhe will be near Hurlburt Fieldfor a couple ofweeks to help his daughtersettle into her newhouse. She is beingreassigned to theAC-130s there fromherAirForce Intern position in the Pentagon.

BriceJones hostedyetanothergreatcharityfund-raiser, 29 Apr-01 May, with bigGrayTagparticipation, accordingto Charlie Neel, who also said, “Thanks, Brice. Now we know that your Pinot Noir is as poisonous as your Chardonnay.”

18 Sabre Society Donors

Tom Eller reported that Brice’s Hospices ofSonoma, a charity wine event to benefit the WCC House (like a Ronald McDonald House) for parents ofhospitalized children in Santa Rosa, CAis patterned after Hospices de Beune ofthe French BurgundyRegion. Brice hosts it, and thisyearraised over $300,000 in a two-hourbarrel auction. In addition to thewinemakers and owners ofBrice’s neighboring-vineyards, many ’61 ers and others enjoyed several wonderful days ofhis and Susan’s hospitality—great food, fine wines, hilarious entertainment, and a chance to give forthebenefit ofthe children. In addition to the Ellers, Joneses, and Neels, other GrayTagsattendingwere the: Andersons, Boeschs, Brickeys, Pat Buckleyand MarilynKitching, Damauers, Hinkles, Mike Quinlan, Rogerses, and Gene and Doe Stringer. Tom andAnne Eller were returning to Coloradoafter two weeks in Hawaii, and Pat Buckley had come from Albaniawhere he is managing an airtraffic control project for Lockheed Martin. Brice’s newvineyard venture will release a 2004 Pinot Noir next year instead ofin '09. Its debut was in the barrel tasting this week and promises to be great!

Wayne Jones said that Mary is recovering very well from a breast cancer operation on 25April. Incredibly, this ishersecond, havingendured a wretched and primitive operation 30 years ago while they were stationed at WrightPatterson AFB. Thetechnologyand knowledgeinvolved with the treatment of this cancer have reallyimproved over that time span, and she had to spend only one night in the hospital this time. Her prognosisis excellent, and they are verythankftrl. Dean andWayneplanned to attend the 50th Reunion oftheirhigh school graduating class at Everest, KS (population. 400) on 28 May. Only 11 classmates survive from the 15 who graduated, and theyhaven’t seen most of them for more than40years!

Jerry Lefton was in the countdown mode until the Men’s U.S. Open golf tournament at Pinehurst. There will be 5,500 volunteers from 47 states and eightforeign countries helping. It all startswith the practicedays on 13,14and 15 June. The scoringdays are 16,17,18 and 19 June. Jerrywillbeamarshalon hole #9. He and Sue were going to Williamsburg on 15 Mayfor a fewdays and hoped to see MikeandGinnyRawlinswhilethere. They are headed to Chicago theendofJune to spend a fewdayswith theirdaughter, son-in-law, and sevenmonth-old grandson.

PB and Marilyn O’Connor recently spent February at the RVpark that the Wilhelms have adopted in Tucson. While there theyvisited with the Joneses

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY!

YOUR MONEYHELPS FUND CADETWING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED.

CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

(Dean), Leftons, Fullertons, and F. JerryMason (recentlyreacquaintedwith gradeschool sweetheart, Jo).

Mike and GinnyRawlins celebrated their5thAnniversaryon 6 MayinAruba. Theywillbe traveling on a tripsponsoredbytheAirForceAcademyGraduates on Oct. 1 -9,2005 to Italy and Nice,Tuscany, and Florence. Ifanyother ’61ers are planning on takingthe trip as well, theywould love to know.

Les SchneiderhasbeenworkingforFlightSafetyInternational sincelastJuly as a SimulatorInstructor/Examiner on the new Embraer 170, trainingRepublie/Chautauqua/ ShuttleAmerica crews. Since his simulator is currently in Montreal, Canada, Les has spentlongweeks awayfromhome. Debbieandthe kids have beenthere forvisits, and they’vegotten to knowand enjoyMontreal very much. New simulators should be in St. Louis byJanuary, thus ending these longstretches awayfrom home. Les’ health isvastlyimproved, and he’s pretty much back to normal. He, John Moore, JimTulis, and theirwives all gatheredin St. Louisfordinner awhile ago andhad a great mini reunion. They plan on doing the same again on a regular basis.

Bob and Pat Smithjust returned from a minifamilyreunion on the California Coastwith Pat’s children and grandchildrenwhen her son was contacted by an estranged daughter and discovered that they have been great grandparents for a while!What a shockthat was. Bob thinks he’s too young to be a greatgrandfather! He andPatenjoyed an eight-daycruise to theMexican Riviera in March and hope to do a ten-day cruise inAlaska on a small ship (only 84 passengers). Bob is keepingbusy, attending more meetings now than he ever didwhen he was workingfull time.

Charlie and GinaThomas have rented a beachhouse in CapeMay, NJ to get their children and grandchildrentogether the thirdweekin June. The two of them will be taking a barge canal trip in the Burgundyregion ofFrance in October to celebrate their40th anniversary. Theywill awaken in Paris on their 40th at the Hotel Regina, which Gina (reallynamed Regina) is lookingforward to. Theytake the TGVfrom Paris to the south ofFrance.

Twy and NancyWilliams have had a busyspring, with Nancy’s workwith their church andTwy’s efforts as education officer for their local power and sail squadron. Theyhave over-committed themselves again. Twyis looking forward to another summer ofsailingwhen some warm weather finally arrives, and the boat is splashed once again.

License Plate Update: MarkAnderson has Texas plates “AFA-61 and “61AFA”. (He can’t have USAFA-61 or the reverse due to a six-character limit.)

Doug Cairns has “AFA 61” on his Suburban in Alabama. Jack Taylor has “USAFA61” as hispersonalizedlicense plate in addition toJerryMason andthe others. He is curious, what states do we now have represented? (Jerry?)

Wouldn’t it be great to have all 50? Tom andJudyWilson have two vehicles in Minnesota: one with “USAFA61 and one with “AFA-61 licenses.

Thanks again to allwho shared. Thosewhodid not provideupdatesthistime should begin now to considerwhat theywill provide for us next time.

John W. “Jack” Jamba

v? 4 Judy Court

M' Satellite Beach, FL 32937

H: (321) 777-5520 0: (321) 861-6279

* # i Cell: (321) 432-1370

/ E-Mail: jwjamba@aol.com

Hi Redtags! The Shuttle launch date has been rolled back to July. The workforce is still pressing on to geteverythingreadyfor liftoff. I have to leave here on the morning ofMother’s Day to fly to Albuquerque. Am I in trouble? Mywife has been introducing me as her first husband for the past week. I’ll have to do somethingspectacularthis Saturdayto make up forleavingheron Mother’s Day.Wish me luck.

I’ll start with an apology forlast issue. I showed a picture ofBob and Ginny McNaughton and identified Ginny as Bob’s firstwife, Gretchen, who had died severalyears ago. I don’t knowhowI did that but it was a bad mistake. I hope I never do that again. Once again, mysincere apologies.

I saw Colin Richardson several times in the past fewweeks and he is doing verywell afterhis fall from a ladder onto his driveway. (I would like to saythe injurywas minimal because he landed on his head but can’t.) He landed and hurt his back. The back injuryis not as bad as originallydiagnosed. He is not wearing a backbrace anymore and is doingverywell.We downed a couple of drinks at a local pub and told old war stories. By the way, Colin thinks the GlobalWarmingTheory is just that, a theory. Ifyou are a proponent ofthe GlobalWarmingTheory, you can have manyscientific email exchanges with Colin. Just let me knowifyou need his email address.

Fred andHelen Hendryx were in town a couple ofweeks ago. Willie and NancyGray, Lyle and SusanWilson and Carolineand I gottogetherwith them for dinner. Fred was here to repairthe hurricane damage to his Mom’s house in Melbourne. She had to move out ofit and into Fred’s brother’s house. After the house is repaired, theyplan to sell it. So Fred worked his tail offfor 2-3 weeks and was planning a shortboarhuntingexpeditioninto the deepjungles ofcentral FloridawithTom Young. Not sure howthat turned out.

Willie is fullyretired, at leastfor now. He told me that same thingtwice before

andwent backtowork atthe slightesthint thatLockheed-Martinneededhim. He told us that he has a new hobbybesides golf. He opined that he is getting good at poker. He visits thelocal racetrack occasionally to playpoker and almost always comes home a winner. I thought that ifhe was that good he shouldwrite a book about his style ofpoker. I’m going to see ifI can get some lessons from him and sign up for theWorld PokerTour competition. Nancy said she is still teaching at the local Montessori School. She just loves that interactionwith the kiddies too much. Lyle is still flyingexecutivejets buthad an annualphysical to pass. Theresultsled to further tests and finallysurgery was scheduled. There are two blocked arteries—90% and 60% blockages.—fourto five days in thehospital. Susan said that he is now doing fine. And she is still doing a greatjob at NASCAR. (No, she’s not a crew chief.) She works in the scheduling and management ofspecial events (I think. Sounds goodanyway).Mywifeisstillthe Base HousingOfficer at Patrickand was happythatPatricksurvivedthe BRAC list. However, the base will be losing a Navyunit and will lose some housingrequirements.

Got an instant email fromBradVan Santback in January. Here is his update. He is still inWoodland, CA and has been a Presbyterian Minister since 1985. He said he retired lastyearbutthenalocalchurch asked him to be their interim Pastor. You knowhowthat goes. His retirement only lasted threeweeks. He andwife enjoyit near Sacramento. Theirdaughterand grandkids livenearbyin Davis, CA. He saidhe sawmycolumn in Checkpoints and respondedbyemailing me. I asked him about agebeing a burden on him. He responded, “Are you kidding! Ayear ago I started visiting an exercise and tennis club. Boy, do thejoints and muscles not respond like theyused to. But ithas been good for me. I can get out ofthe car andthe CessnathatI flylocally at theAero Clubwithoutfallingdown. I’velosthearingin one ear. Probablyall thoseyears in theTweet and other aircraft.” As we signedoff, I thought that it was goodhearingfrom Brad after all theseyears. I dug out a picture from our 40th Reunion foryourviewingpleasure.

Nancy

Ijustreturnedfrom a trip toAlbuquerqueandhad a Redtagget-togetherwith John Brothers and PeterRobinson.John isfullyretired andenjoyinghischance to work out a fewhours every day. He says he hasn’tbeen able to lose much weight but he’s in good shape. His wife has recovered very nicely from her kidneytransplant and is doingwell. Peter has fullyretired but he accepts an occasional consultant assignment. Hiswife has gotten into hikingand enjoys thatverymuch.

andBrad Van SantsurroundLinda andBillBrowning.

In the photoJohn is on the left, Peter is inthe middle and I am on the right. Don’t we looklike we are sittingin a proctologist’s office... waiting.Anyway, it was great spending some time with otherRedtags. And theweather was gorgeous. I thought it would be nice to insert another 40th Reunion picture. This one has the two Robinsons together. (They are not related byblood forthose ofyouwho are not Redtags.They are related byTrial byFire.) Peter Robinson is on the left and Paul Robinson is on the right.

Sabre Society Donors

I thinkwe all should considermeeting once betweenfive-yearreunions. As time passes, fewer ofus will be left. For example, I knowthat manyveterans groups still meetyearly or biannually. I knowofoneWest Point class that meets every two years. I thoughtthere mightbe some ofyouwho would like to meet in anotherlocation somewhere around the U.S. I don’t think theAOGwould or could support an off-year reunion.We could pick a nice location with the kinds ofevents and attractions that we like to attend and gettogether to solve the world’s problems and compare our own group ofmedical people that keep us awake, walking,hearingand seeingbeyond our capabilities. Pleaselet me knowbyemail ifanyofyou are interested in doingthis.

Well, that aboutwraps itup. Pleasekeep the emails coming. Go Redtags!

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

Why, you ask, is this issue of Checkpoints so late? The answer: theAOG is changingthe publicationschedule. This issue ofthe magazinenormallypubfished in mid June will now be mailed in mid July.

News fromJim Diffendorfer: “there were a fewcomments about thelate fall timingofthe40th, not many, but a few. I have thought about our reunions and I queried some ofthe Colo Spgs guys. Afewthings seem clear: (1) theAcademy site is the preferred locationfor reunions, (2) we need to have exposure to the cadetenvironment, bethatagreeable or not, (3) thebriefings (Sup, Com, Dean, Ath) are importantand should be continued, and (4) thesilvercup ceremony MUST alwaysbe a partofthe reunions.With regard to time ofyear, the consensus seems to be earlier football weekends are good. So, since 2008 will be a Navyhome game and is traditionallyin earlyOctober, we’llprobablystaywith that date. However, since our 50thwillbe an Armyyear and it is traditionally later in the fall, we will consider a summer reunion for 2013.Yourcomments/ suggestions are welcome; also, I’malways open to ideas aboutwhat to dowith the cups. Email me at: james.h.diffendorfer@boeing.com or jimdiff@foxinternet.com. Thanks for the help, Diff.”

Because ofspace limitations lasttime I was forced to leave out a photograph ofJimThyng and Ron Fogleman at the dedication for the General Harrison Thyng Memorial. A terrific shot providedbyJim.

A coupleofrealdistinguishedgents.

Some e-mail changes include: Leo Donahue: lfd@attglobal.net, (themajor changeforLeo was the .net) and BarryWalrath: b2048@verizon.net. Dan Eckles wrote in theWeb Site Guest Book: “Conda and I reside in Albany, OR. Both retired, she fromAlbany School District and I retired a fewyears ago as a City Administrator ofHarrisburg, OR. Life is wonderful here in God’s country. Let us hear from you ifyou are out our way. Dan. Agentcane@aol.com.”

TheDeacon (DaveJackson) hasacomputer—atlast. His kids gave it to him so they could communicate at will. Dave says “his oldest, Phil, lives in South

Carolinaandhewillbe going to visithim andfamilyinMay. They are all doing verywell and I have three beautiful granddaughters and a grandson. We have a great relationship. The LORD is very good.” Here are Dave’s two e-mail addresses: davecjackson@yahoo.com and dave@jacksonian.net.

Got a note fromJohnHockemeierbackinFebmarywelcomingus toArizona. Turns out John and Marge moved from NewMexico to Quail Creek, south of Tucson in GreenValley, two years ago. QuailCreekis newer and saysJohn more isolated. Theyfeellikechartermembersthere. He commentedthattheylooked at SaddleBrooke (where we live) and liked it but it seemed too far out oftown and the trafficwasn’t too pleasant (concurwith his comments on the trafficbut it doesn’t compare to Seattle). Their e-mail isjhock@yahoo.com.

JerryDriscoll sent an e-mail during a layoverin Pittsburgtellingofa chance meeting with Dave Morgan. “Dave was at the Embassy Suites for a day of meetings with his company.” Jerry added “We spent the next 45 min talking aboutoldtimes andwhatwe were both doing.” Something I didn’tknowtwo of; Dave’s childrengraduatedfromtheAcademy—Matthew(’90) andMichael (’94). Jerry’s address is vwbug@spacestar.net.

Tom Fryer, DougHardgrave and Dick Guild were looking for a PowerPoint presentation thattells the storyoftheir days inThailand/Vietnam? Tom saw a WWII vet from Normandymake a presentation at Rotaryandsaid one ofthese days that he would like to do a similar presentation. Can anyone out there help? A PowerPoint presentation oftheAirWar in SEAwould be valuable to have and couldbe shared byall ofus forthingslike presentations to the Rotary Club, ROTC, etc.

A feel-betterstory: afterall the news and negativepublicityfrom the treatment ofwomen at dieAcademy, the followingfrom Ralph Bacue shouldmake you feelbetterabout things. In March, Ralph wrote thathe andVirginiahad a bitofnews; theirdaughter,Stephanie, has an appointment for the Class of ’09. According to Ralph, Stephanie was havingsecond thoughts about acceptingthe appointmentgiventhe recurring, negativepublicity. He said Stephanieis a confident andverycapableyoungwoman who also had several alternatives with scholarships to Eastern Universities. Her concern is about women receiving (orthe perceptionof) a varietyofspecial treatment thatsometimes germinates an underground and unspoken backlash and resentment byothers. She was uncomfortableabouthowshe maybe treated and perceived asa woman, both at USAFA and in theAir Force and howthis would affect a woman’s real opportunities. Ralph, in discussions with their son Patrick, a junior at The Citadel, sensed a similar situation existed at that school as well. InAprilStephanie attendedthe USAFAorientation forappointees and Ralphreported theAcademy did a terrificjob. Afterthe orientation was over Stephanie decided on USAFA. She bought her boots and went to school wearing an USAFAT-shirt on college t-shirt day. Ralph had included some otherclassmates in on these discussions and apparentlySteve Savonen’s suggestion for Stephanie to “go for it” reallyhelped carry the day.

Ralph’sinsights on the appointee orientation were very enlightening and I thought you might like to hear some ofhis comments. First, Lou Matjasko arranged for Stephanie to link up with C1C Regina Reinsvold from CS-11 (Ralph’s old Squadron) as her escort. Ralph commented that Regina is a very motivated, relaxed, and outgoing lady and through discussions really set Stephanie’s mind at ease about treatment ofwomen at theAcademy. Thefirst dayofthe orientation, Monday, was a full dayofbriefings inA-Hallforappointees andparents, on everythingyoumayhavewantedto know, andmore. AFA Staffand CadetWingStaffmade the presentations. AppointeesspentMonday night in the dorms andwith their escorts until 4 p.m.Tuesday. Theywent every where the escort went—class, meals, athletics, etc. Stephanie met andtalked with manycadets from all classes during hervisit—all very impromptu and allvoiced supportforbeing at theAcademy. She encountered no one who was unhappyto be at theAcademy, though severalsaidithasits ups and downs, but overall foundthatthe experience isveryworthwhile. Ralph said thathewould be happyto discuss the situationwith anyparentofa prospective cadetbuthe emphasized that participation in the orientation is essential to the decision process. As a side note, he sawJohn Heimburger at the orientation. Jolin’s son is also a 2009 appointee.

Correction: The mini-reunion photograph in thelastissue ofthe magazine was not the one I had planned to include. The publishedphotograph obviously did not match the text. It was one ofthe two photos sent byBob Hayes but I managed to attachthewrongfile to the e-mailcontainingthe articlebeing senttotheAOG. The correct photo is on the ClassWeb Site. The missingphoto is also included here:

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY!

YOUR MONEYHELPS FUND

CADETWING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED.

CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

32 Sabre Society Donors

Therealphoto anditstilllooks verycold!

That’s it forthis time. Hope everyone has a fun summer. Your notes, e-mails andcalls are verymuch appreciatedbyall ofus and it makes thisjob a loteasier. Take care.

Bob Hovde

206 Walker Ave. Huntsville, AL 35801 (256) 532-3923

W: (256) 922-3705

bob.hovde@earthlink.net

W: rhovde@drs-tem.com

AHero Gone:As you probably are aware, Ron Bliss passed away on Feb. 8th at his home in Houston. Charlene and his family were with him. The picture belowwas takenbyJeffGordonduringa ’64 lastvisitwithhim on Saturday, Jan. 29th. Jon Prenez said, “We were glad we made it in time to essentially say goodbye and Godspeed to our bud. At thevisit, Ron was animated and, though in some discomfort, took a veryactive partin the reminiscences, thejokes and the storytelling. Hewouldn’tlet itget somber.We’ve lost a true hero and a credit to theAcademy, our class and the Playboy 19th.”

’64 saysgoodbye to a Hero:Jim Graham, Ron Growden,Jon Prenez, Mike Robbins, DaveAmmerman, FrankBartlett,Jim Sears,JeffGordon, BrettDula, Keith Luchtel, HarvManekofsky, Ron Bliss, andKurtPauer.

Paul Belmont attended the funeral and reports, “Our Hero Classmate Ron Bliss was laid to restwithfullmilitaryhonorsyesterday(March4,2005) atArlington National Cemetery. It was a chilly, butclearday. Believe me, there were no dryeyes asTapssounded, andthelightbreezeflutteredtheAmericanflagandthe POWflag. The eulogies for Ron were moving and captured the essence ofthe man thatwe allknow as a Classmate,Warrior, POWwhoreturnedwithhisHonor, outstandinglawyer, and most ofall a LovingHusband andFather, andFriend to all he met. Ashe was laid to rest, Ibelieve everyone was rememberingthepleasant smilethatalwaysgracedhis face, the goodhumorandintelligentinsighthe alwaysbrought to a discussion, andthe genuinegoodwillhe alwaysconveyed.

“Thirty-six ofus (and 17 beautiful spouses)joined with Charlene andthe boys in standingthe Last Formation for our beloved Classmate. I know I can speakfortheentire group:We were honored to bethere andproud to represent you, who were joined with us in Spirit at that moment.

“Afterthe funeral, at Charlene’s request, Ron’s memory was Celebrated and Toasted bythe group at theWake that followed the event atArlington. Special mention needs to bemadeofGracieMcArtor’s most gracious andeleganthosting ofthe Class attendees at her andAllan’s lovely home the evening ofthe funeral. Theyprovided a warm and comfortable place for us to meet with Charlene andherfamily—andwith each other—toRejoice and Celebrate the fond memories we all have ofRon. Gracie, it was wonderful ofyou andAllan to host the Class so magnificently.”

Meanwhile, back at the ranch: Before all ofthis, in January, I got an email from Ron that said, “I thought I would mention the warm reception our classmates bestowedupon us former POW’s at the reunion.Although we have alreadyhad more showings ofsentiment than we deserve, when coming from our peers with such an introduction from Harry it was very special. Thanks from all of us to all ofyou.

Ron also sent along a picture ofmost ofthe Thud drivers that were at the reunion, but the best picture was this one. With it, he wrote, “And life as it should be with Charlene and me. Did we have a great time or not?"

Life as itshould be, with Charlene andme.”Ron Bliss, 2004

The Houston Chronicle has an on-line site that allows you to read and sign a “guestbook” after reading an obituary, (http://www.legacy.com/ Link.asp?Id=LS03143625X). Ron touched a lot ofpeople’s lives and many of them chose to write about it in that forum.

Class HistoryProject: Matt Feiertag, Usto Schulz, and Bill Dickey (Class HistoryCommittee) need helpestablishing contacts for each squadron. To showthe kind ofthing thatwill quicklybe lost to history, a war storyfollows:

History Lesson: Pat McAdoo passed on this bit of'64 historytrivia. I’m sure that all ofyou remember the timewhen a ’64 flagappeared on the flagpole on theTerrazzo. Here is the rest ofthe story....

“Afewofus decided to show some ‘spirit’ duringHellWeek.

So we made up a tacky ’64 flagand then escaped and evaded fromthe quad at 0200 or so.We hoistedup the flag on one of the two lines and left room for Old Glory above.

“Being ‘honest’ folks, we obeyed a ‘suggestion’ from the PTB that ifwe removed the flag there would be no retribution. So we stupid dweebs did exactlythat a night later. Rumor was that there were a few officers hiding in theAir Gardens to see exactly how we did it the first time.

“A [not so good] picture ofthe guiltyparties is includedhere. Sadly, three of the original cast are gone twoViet Nam and one medical.

Ithinklean!

“After realizing that we had been had bythe PTB, we did the thingagain. Second time, we candy-striped the pole with blue crepe paper all the way down. Ourflagflewalmost to JuneWeek. Unfortunately, it rained and the ink stainedthe pole, so our class had to payforthe paintjob andthe steeple-jack thatretrieved our flag.You see, in the spirit ofamnesty, we refused to go back up and lower the thing.

“Nowadays, we would all receiveArticle 15s or something like that. An innocent, but well-intentioned and harmless prank.”

“These [presentCadets] fineyoung men and women are lookingforleadership and mentoring. As I read theirposts, I getthe feelingthat theyhave none. So is it up to us?”

Distinguished Graduate: Congratulations again to Fred Gregoryforbeing named a Distinguished Graduate. Many ofthe class madeit to theinstallation dinner, as shown in the next photo.

Another ClassmateHonored: The Class of2008 has selected Karl Richter to betheirrecipientofthe CadetExemplarProgram.Theyhave, therefore, placed Karl in such distinguished company as past recipients Doolittle, Mitchell, Sijan, Bong, Rickenbacker, Patton, Jr., Spaatz and Grissom.

Sabre Society Donors

Fred Gregoryand 35 or so proud classmates.

The Class of2008will wear the shoulderpatchbearinghis name above their class numeral on theirjacketsduringtheirfouryears at theAcademy. His name will serve asa constant reminder ofthe ideals to which they should aspire.

As you recall from my recent letter concerning our Class Gift Project, this kind ofrecognition ofthe principles ofcourage, honor, and integrity, exemplifiedbygraduates like Karl, is preciselywhat we want to instill in the cadet experience. And as you know, our Mall ofHeroes, to be inaugurated at our next reunion, will include a statue ofKarl. I thinkyouwill agree with me that theClass of2008 hasvalidated our selection ofKarl as the kind ofgraduatewho has “the right stuff.”

Hey ’65! 40th Reunion Nov. 2-6,2005. Antlers Hilton Colorado Springs.

Go to usafa.org and click on Class Reunions to register on line. Jim Spittler and Bob Giffen have once again been hard atwork to ensure we have a great reunion. Pleasebuyeach ofthese finelads a beverage and conveyyourthanks.

Wow, what a class! You guys must be in a reunion mood.The response to my solicitation was the best ever. The Checkpointseditorlimits the input to 1,200 words and three pictures, so the decision ofwhat to include has been agonizingfor a humble scribewho has never been good at decision making. Apologies for not being able to include all the pictures and details submitted.

Who is Coming to the Reunion? Skip Cox, Rick Lindemann, Larry McCracken, Bob Davies akaRR, GaryTitmas, RoyBridges,JohnTorsey,George “Freefall” Dunkleberg,TerryDrabant, John Sidor, Pete Supp, Fred DeGroot, Ken Krause,TonyMras, EdSoistman, Rod Rodman, Tom Meschko, OrvRamlo, JeffValentine, Mike Ryan, Chuck Ryerson, Dave Rawlins, Tim Graves, John Gross, Chris Compton, John Love, Dave Connuaghton, Joe Britan, Leon Rausch, JohnBlaha, Jim Spitder, Mike Phillips, Earle Monroe, Carl (Vee man) Lyday, JeffSilliman, Bart Holaday and MikeTedesco. These are just the guys who responded to my e-mail by my deadline. I am sure there will be a great turnout forthis event. There were so manypictures this time. Thankyou allfor making it so hard to choose, so here they are:

John andBrendaBlahajustretiredfrom USAAto theTexas hill country, flyin their Cessna 172, and drinkfinewine from Pete Pfendler’s Californiavineyard. GaryTitmas retired from Boeingin ’02 andis a consultantforLegacyworkingin Aurora on a Raytheonprojectwith Bob Golden, ErrolReiner andJim McGorry. Garyand Kaylive in Orange andwill retire to Palm Springs nextyear. Garysays thatJimMcCracken is23rd Sqdn’s“enforcer” andthathelast sawJimattheDanang O’Clubin 1969. Harold Rust hasjust finished a rewardingand energizingfiveyear term as the LDS Bishop in Lake Oswego, OR. “Looking back, I realize that we grads do have some veryvaluable contributions to make to our localcommunities, neighborhoods, and churches. In fact, the contributions we make at thisstage in our life could be as important as those made during our time in theAirForce—and can benefitjust as muchfrom the values instilledduring ourAcademydays.” RightOn, Harold!

33

Chris Compton and new bride, Yuliya, May2005. ResIpsaLoquitor!

Toni andTerry Drabant retired from Lockheed Martin and divide their time between Breckenridge and Rockville.Rickand Sandy Lindemann are retired and fish in their backyard lake. Larry and Karen McCracken are retiringfrom Boeingin July, live in downtown Chicago and are heading to Chinathis summer. Bob Davies will also retire from Boeing this summer and doing a condo dealwith Carl Lydayin Denver. Skip and Susan Coxhave been in SanAntonio since 1982: finished his tour in 1985, worked for USAA for 11 years and has headed up Merrill Lynch there since then. Skip plays tennis weeklywith Neil Stone. The Stones (wife, Reva), are vacationingin Scotlandwith Ed and Kim Farrell this year. Skip reports that Dick and KathySchlosberg have relocated to SanAntonio to be close to familyand DickZuckeris in the “SeniorLeadership ofSanAntonio” class thisyear.

RoyBridges is CenterDirector at NASALangleyinVirginia. JohnTorseyretired offthe 767/757 at USAir in 2000 and now flies a private 737 around the world. Torse was diagnosed with a “treatable” lymphomarecentlyandwillbeseeing us afterchemo. George Dunkelbergis retiredfrom teachingX3 and now travelingtheworldwith Cile and playsgolfand dotes on his grands. He sent the classicpicture from Machu Pichu. John and Jan Sidor live in Colorado. Three ofJohn’s children are still in theAir Force. LTC Stacey ’88,TSgtJohn, CaptGreg’96plusStacey’shusband, Ross McNutt ’87 and John’swife,Winda—the Sidor familybusiness.

Sabre Society Donors

Pete Supp lives nearValdosta, retired in 1990, andfound satisfaction teaching “America’sfinest” on theT-6Texan simulator at Moodyandgrandchild#6 arrives in October. “Life is good.” Ed Soistmancontinues working for Lockheed in Floridaandexpectsthree more grandsbyFather’sDay.JeffValentine istheMath Chair at Ball High in Galveston. He and Kathycelebrate their36th with a Caribbean cruise in June. ChuckRyersonwrites that he was coerced into singingin a church choir directedby Pat (JC) Edwards. This choir is on an 18-dayEuropean concert tour this summer, butJCis not allowed to sing. MikeandJane Ryan are building a river home on theWando near Charleston with all the grandkid lures and requiring Mike to live the vision “work‘tilyou’re dirt”.

Bart Holaday and Lynn traveled India in February, “their senses overwhelmed by the extremes of human existence”. Bart reports that the Joe O’Gorman Theater at theAthletic Building should be dedicated during the reunion. Tim Graves divideshis time between at homewith Maryand bad golf and globe-trotting to Kuwait, etc. helping governments with long-range financial planning. Dave Rawlinsretired fromWestinghouse’s nuclear power division and commutes fromhome (PA) to visithis son, an ArmyMajor, at the Pentagon andthree grandsons. John Gross retired thisyear from hissecond career, is building a home in Castle Pines—alot closerto Falcon Stadium and AFAgolf, andhe and Kathie are pickingup aVolvo in Gothenburg andtouring Eastern Europe. John Love followed his employer to Columbus and the DFAS, but pines forthewarmth ofthe Lone StarState. Dave Connaughton sent me a

John Sidor and bride, Jan, Aug 2003. Pat and Colleen Moore, Mats Matsuyama

Ken andCarolKrause, Tom and DianePlankandChuckandMaryColeman. Niceville, FL. SurpriseDiane!

picture ofGabriellaTorres Connaughton,AFA2022, clearlythe grandprize for cutest kid award.

Remember the feel and smell ofnew khakiwhile taking the Oath in front of Harmon Hall, the hunger as we griped our waythrough the survival hike, the first guy to shakeyourhand at Recognition, that timeless dayin November of our second classyear, what it felt like to become a Firstie, and that last look in the rear view mirror heading out the north gate, June of 1965? Make those Reunion Plans now. As the Roc would say,

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

Greetings Redtags! Well, by the time you all read this the AOG flap will be decided, the BRAC base closure listwill be announced, andwe’ll have a good ideawhich team will win the National League pennant race. I have a deep interest in all ofthese things; but, no matterwhichwaythey turn out, life will go on and therewill always be another season. (Turning 60 years old qualifies all ofus to be philosophers.)

There are quite a fewofour classmates livingin the D.C. area, andyou can usually find a handful ofthem at anyAir Force-related activity. Gary Palmer has been great about getting a picture at these gatherings and sending us a few words about what everyone has been doing. When the D.C. area Daedalians meet, there is always a group of’66ers that try to join up at these meetings. At a recent one, the guest speaker was Nick Kehoe, who briefed the flight on his workwith the living Medal ofHonor recipients. Nick is the President ofthe Medal ofHonor Foundation, which recentlypublished a book (a New York Timesbest seller) with stories ofthe livingrecipients. The foundation also has an ongoingproject to interviewall ofthe livingrecipients on video.

While perusingthe Boeing news a while ago, I saw an article aboutthe new Boeing 787 aircraft that mentionedthat the person responsible for all ofthe training for this aircraft was A1 Nader. So I talked to Al (OK, we exchanged emails) and he gave me a few more details: He is in the process ofsettingup a trainingorganizationwhichwill contain40-60 employees to develop the flight crew, flight attendant and maintenance training curricula for the B-787 aircraft. Al is responsible forground-up taskanalyses, media allocation, andwill develop courseware and materials forthe trainingprograms. Hewill also be responsiblefor training the Boeing andAlteon instmctors, who train our first B-787 customers. Al says thatthe challenge is great, and thetask is daunting as theywill be integrating new trainingtechnologies and methodswhich have not been used or proven before. Desktop simulation, flat panel trainers and full flight simulatorswillbepart ofthe trainingtools. In his spare time,Alis also involved in customer campaigns (selling the aircraft), because theyall have a lot ofinterest in what the training will look like and how itwill be delivered.

Jess Cogley was recendyselected to be a memberofthe Chairman’s Council forthe investment firmofRaymondJames in SanAntonio. Jesshas been in the investment business for the last 26 years, and hasalso found the time to be active in his community. He is an ordained elderin the Presbyterian Church andis a directoroftheAlphaOmegaTrainingCenterin SanAntonio. Jess is still in the process ofbuilding that new house, and he says that as the roofis going up, his savings accounts are going down. Another member ofthe working class forthe next 30 years!

RandyCarlsonisthe professorofInstructionalTechnology at Georgia Southern University. He was just selected to chair the Department ofLeadership, Technology, and Human Development at that university. Randy’s son Todd (Class of’91) is a C-17 pilot and is now the 19*AF Stan Eval pilot forthe C-17. Since I’m running out ofnews fromyou guys, I’ll have to tellyou aboutwhat

I’ve been doing. It’s still pretty cold in St Louis duringApril, so the wife and I went down to Barbados for a week in the warm sun. We didn’t see anyofour classmates down there, but we sure had a good time. The first time I was in Barbados was in 1983,whenwe were helpingPresidentRegankickthe Cubans out ofGrenada. Actually, there were about 400Americans there attending one ofthose “offshore” medical schools. We had to send in the 82nd Airborne Division because some of them were dangerouslyclose to graduating. Anyway, Barbados is about 100 miles from Grenada andhad a good runway and a reasonable amount oframp space, so that’swhere we set up our USAF operations. We had C- 130s to do thework, AC-130s to provide air support, and someA-10s—so we had some fighterpilots around to get the medals. It was like a lot ofthoseplaces we used to operate out ofthatlookedlikethey would be fun to visit ifyou didn’t have to worry about getting shot at (like I imagine NhaTrang or NewYorkwould be). Taking a vacation there was a great idea, except it confirmed mywife’s suspicions thatTDYs really were a “good deal”. It was a beautiful place with sunny beaches, good sightseeing, and friendlypeople. But, I knew we had been there longenough when I caught myselfstaring at thatlittle slice oforange theyput in the Rum Punchand wonderingifit counted as breakfast; so we packed up andheaded back to the cold Midwest and the realworld.

38 Sabre Society Donors

That’s allthe news forthis time. Send me those e-mails and pictures ofyour searches for fellowRedtags. Until the next time... HappyLandings!

Larry Wilson

13100 Pinehurst Ave. NE

Albuquerque, NM 87111

H: (505) 291-8949

E-mail: Lwilsn628@aol.com

Hola, amigos-As I compose this, it is springtime in the NewMexico Rockies

andthefoothills are greenfor a change,with theRio Grandefloodinginto the river bottoms, at its highest levels in years, refilling some ofthe near-dryupstream reservoirs in Colorado and New Mexico. Maybe this five-yeardrought is at longlastwinding down.

So - what’s goingamongst us ’67 grads?Welllll... here are some updates.

For the manyofyou who have wondered “What is oldAbnerHaynes up to these days” - read on, as I have the answer: Abner and Patti have departed Florida, packed up andmoved to St George, Utah, which has been “discovered” and is turning into the Next Great Retirement Mecca. A & P stopped off briefly in Albuquerque en route to their new digs, under construction.While theirmenagerie dozed, we enjoyed a too-brieflibation, visitation and conversation. They seem to be doingjustfine, lookingforward to their new domestic adventure in reasonable proximitytoVegas, where their romance beganback in the ’80s. So-those ofyouhavingbusiness or pleasure inVegas, or who are wanting to get awayto BryceCanyon or ZionNational Parks in Utah - thinkof the Haynes in St George.

Myapologies to Gail Kruzel, wife ofJoe. She co-founded a newnonprofit called “Our Military Kids.” I managed to have misplaced the article that was in the Washington Postabout the program and the National Guard unit the group isworkingwith. Gail-1 will tryto relocate the article and have more on the group in the next Checkpoints. Meanwhile - forthose ofyouwith an interest in this activity-please contact Gail or me or do your own search for “Our Military Kids" for details.

Flashback: In the fall of ’66,1 recall falling victim to our Food Poisoning Epidemic, courtesyofMitchell Hall. I even broke a date because I was turning myselfinside out and prudentlydeterminedthat I might not be theverybest date on that night... And I recall the Legend ofthe Green Dumplings, from some Mitchell Hall St Patrick’s Daybefore our time, which - so the storywent

NickKehoe, GaryPalmer, WaltSchrecker, Mason Botts, NickKehoe, andMike Connorshold a mini-reunion ata recentD.C. area Daedalian meeting.

YourscribeRyanDennyandwife, Connie, on thesearchforRedtagsin Barbados.

- broughtmuchofthecadetwingto theirknees, etc, toworship at thealtarsof all toilet bowls throughout the dorms... Shades ofthat: From Bob Muldrow, as reported by that unimpeachable source, the Colorado Springs Gazette: "Todaythe newspaper reported that Mitchell Hall got the lowest rating possible in a compliance test. TheAcademycould not release the test report, since it was an Air Force inspection. I suspect itwill be released by other sources soon. TheAcademyspokesperson said the inspection results were mainly managerial, but of course the paper got some ofthe more spectacular details. Not too much glitz in talking about timeliness ofreports. It makes more of a splash to talkabouthow some workers were caughtwashingthingswith their bare hands versus havinggloves on. And some utensils had some food partides on them. And some refrigerators had temperatures slightlybelow the numbers that they should have been at, etc. No one has been reported sick, but the potential was there.” So The Gazettegotanotheropportunity to slam the Academy. “Washingthings with bare hands... and... utensils (with) food particles on them... Howveryclassy. What has happened the pristineshowpiece Mitch’s ofour day?

On thatvein—there seems to have been a plethora ofopportunitieslately for such slams, locally and nationally.You all knowofthe ton of“news” about theAcademy in the past months. Unfortunately, not all ofit - in fact not much ofit—has been favorable.What a shame. Our institution andthe cadets andthe faculty and staff deserve far better. I will not attempt to summarize the various topics or the various positions on them - there is simply no wayI could adequatelycapture or reflectwhat has accurately or inaccuratelyhit the press, or the commentary backand forth. Needless to say, the spectrum ofopinions, the range ofemotion and - unfortunately - the sensationalism are wide, high and deep. I encourage allofus toworkwithinthesystem and to supporttheAcademyinthese difficult times. I believe that the bestway to do that is to lead by our example.

Additionally—bythetimethisisprinted, thevote on thevariousamendments abouttheAOG Board, etc, willhave beentallied, and our directionwillbeplotted. Howevermuchdisagreementtheremaybe onAOGandgovernance issues -1 have absolutely no doubt that ourAOGrepresentatives are men ofintegrity, no less now than they were when we were cadets. I trust them and theirjudgment now, as I have in the past. Regardless ofthe outcome ofthe vote-1 choose to believe that it should in no waybe considered anysort ofnegative reflection ofthevarious grads.We all (should) knowthat reasonable people can disagree on almost anyissue.Weall havehadthis opportunityto influencehowtheAOG moves forward. Ifthevarious amendments havepassed - we will move forward in a direction different from the one our board members have recommended; ifthe amendments do not pass, we will move forwardin the direction theAOG Board recommends. Eitherway-we shall move forward.

And with that—in the absence offurther news or photos or police reports, etc—I close this out. Ifyouwish to see more stuffabout us and our class-you’ll need to let me know: Remember, “Garbage in, garbage out” and the corollary “No garbage in, no garbage out.”

Have a greatspringand summer. Regardless ofthe vote results - thanks to our guys on theAOG staffand board.

Tim Davidson

9712 Hidden Valley Road

Vienna, VA 22181-6094

(703) 255-5313

Fax: (703) 255-5377

E-mail: timd@erols.com

WELCOME ’05! With USAFA now in your rearviewmirrors, congratulations to the Class of2005 foryour dedication, achievement, and perseverance. May your time in the service ofyour countrybe as rich and rewarding as your forbearers from the legendary (yethumble) Class of 1968. Welcome to the Long Blue Line!

HELLO ’68! Have anyofyou in CheckpointsLand"noticedthatthepassage oftime seems to be on a speed dial lately! Betweenwork, upkeep ofthe house and yard, visits to see my new grandkids, and travel for one thing or another, I went from Christmas to Mayin what seems like a heartbeat. At times like this, I thinkofthat old Broadwayshow“Stop theWorld, IWanttoGetOff.” Hopeyou are all finding the means to keep pace with these times ofour lives.

MAILBAG DEPT: The scheduled delayin publication ofCheckpointsmakes my Holiday ’04 correspondence a little dated, but sincerityofsentiment and news from our gang remains worthyand fit-to-print.

The first of our delayed holiday greetings comes from Buckand Linda McCants. Buck and Linda were justifiablyproud oftheir first-born, Matthew, who was honored asa distinguished graduate from the USAFA Class of2004 andthenassigned to ColumbusAFB, MSforundergraduatepilottraining. Their youngest son, Michael, is also following in Dad’s footsteps as a member ofthe USAFA Class of2006. Michael served as his squadron’s 1 st Sergeant and is a consistent memberofthe Dean’s and Commandant’s Lists. Linda splits her timebetween home and South Carolinawhereboth ofherparentsdepend on

herto help managetheiraffairsandhealth matters. Herchurch missionactivities, libraryco-director, and tutoring at a D.C. elementary school fill up her time at home.Buckcontinues to flywith Fedex as a Line CheckAirman in the Airbus. He plans on makingthis a good lastyear on the flightdeck, as he faces mandatoryretirement in December2005.

And, now from Springfield,VA.... Or, is it St. Michaels, MD? Or, is itAnnapolis, MD? Who couldbe in threeplaces all atthe same time? Well, itis none other than our very own David andAlexandra (Alex) Prevost. As David’s letterbegan “It all sounded simpleenough. Buyahouse. Sellahouse. Move into two houses. Ugh—HELP!” Ifyou are having a degree ofdifficultykeepingup with all ofthis, try to imagineactuallygetting hold ofthese two while David works with Boeing in California andAlexshutdesbetween sites depending on what herjob with Aptima has her doing that day. Obviously, the Prevosts experiencedquite ayearoftransition. Theultimate aim oftheabodeactivityis to settle in some comfortabledigs in St. Michaels that includes about three acres ofland on the water and backs up to a golfcourse. David is now Director for Net Centric Ops for IDeAS, the futures part ofBoeing. Alexgave up herconsultingjobs to workfulltimewithAptima. Daughter Jessica has graduated from Florida State, has a contract to teach in the fall, and elected to move backinwith Mom andDad until she finds a permanent place to stay.

Meanwhile, according to David, here is a description oftheir son JD: “Speaking ofabnormal, JD now is a verylarge human. He’s biggern me, and I am a load. Apparently, he’s been doingpush-ups at the pizzafactory. He is busily engagedin the 17-yearprogram at Florida State.” And, what about the rest of the family, you say? As David recounts: “Itis incredible howquicklythesmall people growup. Can’twait until Camille demands her first credit card. She is stillwaymuch cute and far too articulate. Gabe remains tough and is looking for a future as a wreckingball. Andi and Franckhaven’t axe-murdered anyone or been involvedwith illegal chicken fighting, so they are too normal forthis family, as well.” And, there you have it... another segment from ’68’s reality TVfamilyofthe year.

HEALTH DEPT: We have had a rough fewmonths for some ofour crew. First, thanks to Jim Thomas fordraftingsuch a heart-warming “Gone, But Not Forgotten” farewell to LarryMerideth in the last Checkpoints. Larry was a wonderful person and Jim did a greatjob capturingLarry’s zest for living. Our sincere condolences go to Larry’s wife, Pat, and their family.

Bob Durham is slowlyrecoveringfrom a brain hemorrhage and collapsed lungs that hadhim on the ropes inApril. Due to special care received from his nurse and daughter, Jennifer, Bob's healthcareproviders were alerted to several issues that were occurringsimultaneously. Jennifer’s persistencepaid off in gettingBob the care he neededwhen he needed it and probably saved his life. Bob ishome now andwould love to hearfromyouvia e-mail or cards and letters.

Zoomies One andAll TheMcCants Gang. From left are CadetSecond ClassMichael, Colonel(Ret) Buck, andSecondLieutenantMatthew.

Happier Times at the35,h Reunion - From left are CathyandBobDurham andJudyandBud Templin.

Sabre Society Donors

Sabre Society Donors

Frank Moore also received a scare while celebratinghis 10th anniversarywith his wife, Brenda, in LasVegas lastApril. While doing some laps in the pool of their hotel, Frank began to suffer chest pains and went to a hospital in Henderson. Within an hour after entering the emergency room, he was in surgery receiving a heartby-passoperation. As ofthiswriting, Frank is recoveringin the hospital in Henderson andBrenda said that hewould love to hear from folks via cards and letters, but is not up to takingphone calls right now.

I askthatyou pleasekeep Bob andFrankinyourthoughts andprayers. Also, ifyouhave a fewminutes, drop them a line andletthemknowyou are thinking about them. Thanks!

Brenda andFrankMoore atJim Thompson’sRetirement.

SPLASH & DASH DEPT: While some ofus consultant types were working awayin our comfortableoffices,Vic Bonfiglio was busytesting the limits ofhis strengthandenduranceagainst a fieldofhundreds attheSplash&DashBiathlon on 24April in Kailua, HI. Vic finishedfirstin his age group ofmales 56 and over in the 2.8 mile run and 800 meter swim with a time of42 minutes and 13.9 seconds. In addition to the invigoratingcompetition,Vic is thoroughlyenjoyinghis dayjobteachingAF Junior ROTC.

THAT’SAWRAP: I am very short ofphotos (digital or hard copyphotos) for the column. Ifyou have anyyou could send with some news about you and yourfamily, itwould be much appreciated. Mind the flak; keep ’em flying, and keep those cards, letters, e-mails, and photos coming in. Ciao for now. Tim

Lindsey Parris

616 King’s Cloister Circle Alexandria, VA 22302

Home: (703) 836-3604

E-mail: 102177.1033@compuserve.com

Greetings to all in hopes summer unfolded with great travel, unbounded thrills, and no injuries. Looking forward to a Falcon football resurgence to return the Commander-in-Chief’s trophyto its rightfulplace andthe absence ofour alma mater from national news stories ofthe flavorthathave riddled the past couple ofyears.

OnApril 12, John Hopper took his final flight, stepping down from his position as DeputyCommanderofAETC, after a distinguished 41-yearAir Force career.

Craig, Charlie, John,H., andPKatJohn’sretirementceremony.

John’s retirement leaves only a single ’69erthree-star remaining on active duty, the indefatigableWally Moorhead. Charlie, theAF’s chiefchaplain, also remains on active duty. Osamabestnot breathe easyyet. Johnwillrelocate to Washington DC, where hewill head up theAFAide Society. Huge Class kudos to John on his longyears oftrulyexemplary service.

Doug and Dottie Schott have found home in Dayton, TN where he is the Physical Plant Director forBryanCollege and for the first time in his adult life withinvisiting distance ofboth his and Dottie’s relatives. Dayton is famous for beingthe site of 1925’s ScopesMonkeyTrial, and Bryan College is named afterWilliamJenningsBryan, the prosecutor in the case. Dougis busypreppingthe school forits upcoming 75th anniversary.

LarryAlexander is still with SAIC, working in Alexandria, VAand running a contract thatconducts independent management assessments for the Missile DefenseAgency. He’s just had repaired the shoulderhe ripped up competing in judowhile at the Zoo, andis newlypain-free forthe first time since then. No more 150 push-ups to start each day, but no pain is all gain. He and Junelea met Junior Boyd inAnnapolis for dinner last year; Juniorlives near Spokane,WA and travels regularly to Lancaster, PA on business. Whateverhappened to the 427 ’Vettewith dual pipes, anyway?

Mike DeWitte, a pastrecipient ofthe NewMexico Governor’s Distinguished Public ServiceAward, was inducted into the UniversityofNewMexico’s School ofManagement Hall ofFame inApril. His selection was based on his bodyof workand leadership at the state and local levels as well as at Sandia National Laboratories.

Mike Rose continues his multi-disciplinebakingand shaking, with involvement in several multi-level marketing enterprises (Shaklee for health and wellness, PRT fortravel discounts, Fortune for communications, and GDI for websites). In addition, he handles as many legal cases as his time permits, mosriycentering on business and dispute, including for grads.

JeffandAnne Posner, with an offer they couldn’t refuse, picked up stakes fromAnnapolis, MD and have relocated to Huntsville, ALwhere Jeffcontinues hiswork in the missile defense arena.

TJ Dohertyand clan survived Hurricane Ivan, departing Navarre in Florida’s panhandle to safehaven in Peachtree City, GA and returning to find onlyfallen timber—and a mostly-intacthome. Can’tbeatthosegoodUSAFAengineering courses! TJ and Oud are contemplating a move to Thailand, and have forthe time beingdecided to plant roots somewhere in the Pattaya-Sattahip-Rayong “triangle.” First, he’ll be completing his PhD dissertation (subject to follow!). Also alongthe academic trail is Gene Justinwho earned his PhD in Managementfrom Claremont Graduate University, east ofLA. Class congrats to Gene on achievingthis notable scholarlymilestone.

Out on the Colorado golftrail, keep your eyes peeled for the spifiy cart with the recognizablepaintjob, shown in the picture below. DavidWagnersprung forthis beautyin lieu ofa Porsche. He’s gotgame, andwould love to squireyou aroundDenver’s courses ifyou’repassingthroughand starved to smack a few. Several others congregated in earlyApril downAlabamawayfor a fewdays

Attending the ceremony on Randolph’s East Flight Line and reception at the O-club were classmates Craig Collins, Charlie Baldwin, PK Carlton, and H. Ownby. H. and John, Prep School class- and squadron-mates, and PK and John, fellow “Frat Fivers,” reminisced over past times. PK related titles ofprim and properbehavior during the daring “Moon Over theWestern Skies” operation, but the group quicklylabeled his account as revisionist history.

DaughterJessica showersJohn Hopperwith champagnein celebration of his “fini-flight

David Wagner’sPorsche. Fore!

Sabre Society Donors

of friendly competition on RTJ Trail’s lovely courses: Mike Beezley, Roy Coppinger, Les Dyer, John Buckner, JimmyCummings, Flip Keck, David (aka Bruce) Andersen, Steve Cherry, and as a mercyinvite to non-golfers, myself. Buck’s betting schema brainchild, fair and balanced and including dailyadjustments, saw— guess who—Buckhis own selfgamerthe mostwinnings. Hmmmm. Royhard-charged thewaywith36 holes a dayforfive consecutive days, andthe MontgomeryBrewingCompanyenjoyed an off-business-cycle profitabilityspike ofhistoric proportions. The crud table at Maxwell’s O-Club received a briefworkout one night, and ifyou heard a seismic convulsion in earlyApril, and cannot attribute it to discoveringwhatyou owedthe IRS, then itwas probablytheAndersen-Coppingercollision—andthegamewasn’t even combat rules. Wetried to synchup with Bob Harris, who lives on theAlabama coast and travels statewide in his business, but came up short after two tries.

Over in Hilton Head in mid-MarchJeffGrime participated in the annual Heritage “Non-Classic” golftournament, held as the alternative to the PGA’s Heritage Classic at HarborTown. Jeffhas competed everyyearsince returning from Norwayand partneringwith Don Rakestraw atAtlantic Systems/Point One, and this year he took home all the bacon. First place out of72 golfers, with a net of278 for four rounds. Check out Jeff’spicture, flushwith the win, at www.heritagenon-classic.com. Awesome.

Class Spenser” award for expertsleuthinggoes to Les Dyerforhis accurate identification ofRobertWilliam Bennett as the original owner ofa ’69Class ringbeing offered for sale on E-Bay. A member ofa later class wrote with the alert, and Steve, Terry, Mike, Les and I committed on general principles to procuringthe ring, figuring we could sort out the owner afterthe fact. The ring was engraved with the initials RWB and wordingrelating to “stone cleaving” inside. Les conducted the bidding, procured the ring, and went back to our annual to find “one spirit to cleave a stone” in thebio for one “Strider” Bennett. Bingo. Strider is a Delta captain, living in the Dallas/FortWorth, and is delighted to regainownership ofhis ring. No doubt there’s more to the story, but all’s well that ends well!

DavidWagner presses aheadwithhis goodworks involvingthe 40th reunion gift. You should have received another note bythe timeyou read this, solicitingyourviews on the Gift Committee’s initial cut. Alreadywe have substantial monetarycommitments, putting us on track to gift theAcademy and those young men and women who followin our footstepssomethinglasting, meaningful, and appropriate to our great Class.

As manyofyou know, at the 35th we committed as a Class to funding Contrails for the Class of’09. TerryBradytook the lead in writing a note ofinscription from us to them, which will appear inside the book, which will be (or, “will have been”) presented to the members of’09 duringtheir Recognition Parade on August 9, an eventto which all ’69ers are invited. Have a look at the note when you receive your copy, and knowyou have forged a tangible link to the “Long Blue Line.” Without embellishing in anyway, I believeyou’ll findTerry’s inscription to be without rival—it is brilliantly conceived and implants the notion that these new cadets are embarking on a journeyofspecial significance, not theleastportion ofwhich is becoming “one” with theirclassmates.

Bynow, I presume we knowtheresults ofthereferendumabout our graduate association, a subjectthat has filled our mailboxes forthepastmonths. Apenetratingglimpseinto theobvious:whateverthevotingresultsmaybe, the reconstitutedAOG, inwhatever formit assumes, deserves our lull andunitedsupport in representing us and in supportingtheAcademyand thelargerAir Force.

As is all too often the case, closing includes some notes ofsadness, the two most immediatewithwhich those ofyouwith e-mail addresses on file at the AOG are already familiar. In April, Mike Guyote lost his lifelongcompanion, Marilyn, who many ofthe Class met during our era at USAFA. Class condolences go to Mike at this sad time. BillJohannes wrote thathis former roomie and our dear classmate Ken Litde, died in his sleep ofnatural causes on Jan. 27th JimmyCummings and Jimmy Love were present at Ken’s interment at Arlington Cemetery. Ken’s mother asked ifthere were some bit ofmemorabilia bywhich she might rememberKen’s USAFA days, and JimmyL tookthe time to locate a yearbook for her. We’ll all remember Ken’s good humor, easy demeanor, 1000-watt smile, and creativity. Bill recalled himselfand Ken and Rick Denault workingtogether on two ofthe “WingDings” of our day, and offers the following: “it’s kinda’ sobering to have our friends and peers passing naturally—I guess it’s only one more reminder to seize each dayandlive itlike it were our last. Godspeed to Marilyn and to Ken.

All verybestwishes to all until next time. Cards, letters, and e-mails, please. 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

Yikes! This is the last Checkpointsyouwill getprior to the Reunion! Hard to believe September is just right around the corner. After much whining and

cajoling we have the golfcourse on Thursdaymorning. Up until earlyJune it looked like we were going to have to share the course with 75 and be limited to only64 players.We are set to go now— so line up your foursomes and give me who you want to playwith and your handicapswhen you register or just drop me an email.

Speakingofgolf, somebodysent me an email that saidWild Bill Stealeyshot a 68! Musthave been one ofthose executive courses whereparis 54. Seriously, way to goWild Bill! Here are two guyswho wouldn’tmind takingWild Bill and his 68 on for a fewsheckles—John Disosway and Bill Bader.

John DisoswayandBillBadertuningupfortheReunion GolfTournament.

I heard from lots ofclassmates during the recent election cycle. Had a spirited debate with TimKinnan over the merits ofthe proposedbylaw amendments proposedby a group calling itselftheARC. WallyFeyalso weighed in and to his credit mailed out a letter at his own expense to support the ARC position. It is a realshame that things reached this point; hopefiillythis divisiveness will end and we can getbackin thebusiness ofbeing an alumni association thatsupports theAcademy, cadets, and graduates. The election results are posted elsewhere in this magazine.

Here are some otherclassmates I heard from inthelast month—manycommented on the election: Dana Arbaugh, John Disosway, Ed Epping, Gary Bagliebter, Ken Hudacsko, JohnPomeroy, Bruce French, andDwain Stephens. Danawrote a nice article aboutJohn Haselton that I want to get into a future Checkpoints. Dwain does simulator training and academics for SUPT at ColumbusAFB. Denny Hall is still in Grand Junction andwill be at the Reunion. Rich Butlerwon’t be making the Reunion; has a more pressing matter—his daughter—Dr.AshleyButler—willbe gettingmarried. Gee Rich—getyour prioritiesright! Richworked with Tom Distlehorst atAMC HQs at ScottAFB. Tom and Danahavefourgrandchildren. (As thiswent to press, we learned that Tom passed awaywith heart problems on 17 June. Tom was a good man and superb officerand classmate. Pleasekeep Danaand hisfamilyinyourthoughts and prayers.) BJ Bjorkland sent me a note while he was at the top ofMount Kilimanjaro, the highestpeakinAfrica (19,340feet)!WonderhowmyMarlboros would feel at that altitude!

A1 Wurglitz

Heard from Larry Carr who is an owner of Check Six Aviation (www.checksixaviation.com) at Stinson Field, TX. He is handlinggolffor Seventh Squadron at the Reunion. Jake Dustin sent me a fewemails. He is a vice president ofIntrepidTechnology, an energycompany (www.Intrepid21.com). Dave Sterling is retired fromAdroit Systems and has been traveling Czech Republic, safari in Africa, and a visit to Costa Rica. Dave put

a word of caution for all ofus get a stress test. He got one just for the heck ofit and

up with a double bypass! That and a colonoscopy are musts foryoung guys like us plus those little blue pills.

BJBjorkland (right) with son-in-lawScottHead (left) andfriendMikeWalden on top ofAfrica.

wrote a thoughtful article on the election that manyofyou read.

out

wound

SawRich and Nanci Downing at the Founders DayDinnerhere—shared a fewadultbeverages. Robin Olds was also there. He stilllooks great in his mess dress.We mayinvite him to the Reunion alongwith some ofour otherheroes from our days atUSAFA. MarilynandIenjoyedseeingDave andKathyMacGhee at the Jabara Dinner. Dave is at Netjet. Mike Ryan, RudyAragon, Mike Lambert, Angus MacDonald, Don Mills, Gary Baxter, Chip Terrill, Mike Brower, Hugger Peteet and Tom O’Meara sent verynice notes. Don Shafer is coming backfor his FIRST Reunion. Let’s contact our classmates andmake sure we have a great turnout. Jack Norman checked in—said he flewwith a pilotwho flewGreggPopovich and the Spurs around. TerrySilvesteris in Shalimar, FL—near EglinAFB. He has a cabin on a lake in upstate NewYork. As you know, Terry’s wife, Janet, is Dick Christy’ssisterandeveryyeartheOutstandingWresderAward is presentedin Dick’s name. TooeyEmeryand I have had the honor ofpresenting the award andTerryplans to be here in ’07 to do it. Bob McKinney is doingthe honors this year. It is a great honor and veryhumblingexperience.

73 Sabre Society Donors

KenGreene checkedin from Massachusetts—hewas tired ofthe snow and was itchingfor golfseason!! On a sad note, Ed Cole and Linda were in a serious automobile accident. As I write this, they are out ofthe hospital, but both had very serious injuries. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Chuck Weir said he was in San Diego (yetagain) working on his golfgame. I presume Dan McFadden is doing the same. Dusty Swanson called in from Memphis where he is gettingready to tackle anotherhotand humid summer. SpeedyandWendy Martin are planning to return toWoodland Parkwhen he retires. RogerRiggs sent me a picture from theAirpowerJournalofSpeedy with an unidentified pilot. Turns out the pilot was none other than Captain Douglas Riggs, Class of’98.

Several ofthe people in the next picture sent me pictures ofsome Seventy men celebratingthe 35th Anniversary of 100th night. Doug and Susan Norton were the hosts. I wonder ifanybody’s head fell into theirplate?!Mydad—a Lt Col—came to our 100lh Night dinner at the O’Club.Afterwatching our antics formost ofthe evening—hepulled me aside and said, (cursewords)—I can’t believe you guys are going to be in myAir Force in 100 days!”

Ohyes, myfamous football predictions—no less than 7-5—bowl game and wins over Armyand Navy!Watch out for our vaunted passingattack!

I will closewith this picturefrom the past thatWild Bill sent. It superblycaptures us in our youngerdays at a kegpartyin the BlackForest. Let’s gettogether in September and share memories tike these.

Dick O’Connor said that many war stories from cadet days were told and when the guys started tellingWakefield, Resting, Eric Mann, and flaming tequila tales everyone’s betterhalfleft the room.

Heard from some lostsouls thispastquarter. TonyTosti called me for some info. He is living in Camas, WA. Mrs Dottie Spear, wife ofour BB coach Bob Spear, passed away a fewmonths ago and I went to the funeral. I had a chance to catch up with Bert Spearwho is living in Redding, CA. I encouraged both Tonyand Bert to attend the Reunion.

Your Reunion Committee headed by Mike Torreano is puttingtogether a great program for us to all enjoy. I knowyouwill find the Memorial Ceremony special as it will take place in front ofthe replica oftheWar Memorial that was our class giftfrom our last Reunion. Everymember ofthe Class of2008 passed bythe Memorial and was briefed on its significance. It is truly a lastinglegacy from our class to theAcademy. I knowGaryDahlen has sent out a greatletter describing our vision for our next gift. To stay abreast ofevents about the Reunion, go to the AOG web page (www.usafa.org) and click on the class web page button on the right. Above all, make sure we have an up-to-date email and address foryou.

Visit the NEWAOGWeb Site.

Merchandise, Gone But Not Forgotten and More! www.usafa.org

Seventymen enjoya kegpartyin Black Forest-From left are Gino Quist, ChuckKellerman, WildBillStealeyandLarryRichard. Arriba Falcones Marilyn and I will see you in Sept!

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 new Checkpointspublication schedule! By now, we know justwhathappened to theproposals thattheAcademyReunification Committee submitted, andwhethereither HarryDavis or Bob Lowe are on the Board ofDirectors. Thanks to allyouwho tookthetime to ponderthe issues and vote. Ifyou didn’t, your right to comment is (temporarily) revoked!

Our first submission this issue is from Dick Reynolds: “The Chief(ofStaff) recentlyheld a “Blue Summit” in SanAntonio forallActive, Reserve andANG GOs and SESs (643 showed).

“Subjects in attached photo (Morgan, Grueser, Reynolds and Frostman), realizingthat this was a fleetingrejoin offourofsix (we think...) ’71 classmates still wearingblue, grabbed a photo, sucked in our guts and here’s the result.

“Believe JJ Harnett (WAANG) and BillyRajczak (AFRC @ JFCOM) are the two no-shows.”

George Schultz sent along a photo as well: “Paul McKay set up a little mini ’71 reunion last night. He had access to a skybox at the United Center, and we sawthe Bullsbeat theWizards.Alongwith Paul and me, there were GregRocco, Fred Strauss, RickMiller, Bob Denaro and Dito Ladd. I took a picture ofeveryone except Dito. See photo at top ofnext column.

“It was good to see a bunch ofguys, mostlyAmericanpilots, from aroundthe country. Dito lives in Scottsdale, and of course you know that Greg is in the Springs. The other five ofus are in the Chicago area.

A sad note, in March Doug Miller asked about Earl “Woody” Woodard. He’d seen an obituary on theInternet, and it turned out to be our classmate. Thelast time I remember running intoWoody was when we were in the same wedding partyaftergraduation.

We all remember roommates or squadron buddieswho didn’t get as far as graduation. Recently, a ’69 gradput me in contactwith Mike Elrod, whom I’d run intoafewtimes aftergraduation. Here is the message I got back: "Good to hear from you, wellyour memoryis much betterthan mine, that’s not saying much though for a couple old farts! It was Bitburg ’76-79.

100th Night35th Anniversary-Fromleftin thefrontroware DarrylLundgren, WildWoodWoodhead, MickRosenblatt, Chip Terrill, andAngusMacDonald.

SecondRow:RayMcKelvy, GeorgeKeys,DougNorton andRexReiley. TopRow. Dick O'Connor, RandyRoyce, andWildBillStealey

A RareSighting!

Greatseats, greatfriends, greatgame Well, two out ofthree ain’tbad!

“I was just in the Springs last Christmas with my son - can’t believe howits’ grown. After Bit I went to Clark in the PI for fouryears, then to Nellisand did an exchange with the Navy - I was actually being considered by the Thunderbirds (probably as a waterboy) when they had that tragic accidentyou knowthe outcome ofthat - the team was disbanded for two years so I got out and went to workforNorthrup on the F-20 program and transferred to theNavyReserveandspent 14years atMiramar flying the world famous A-4 Bubble Nose Chicken Hawk. The F-20 never tookoffso I sold mysoul and took ajob with Northwest—where I’ve been for the last 18 years.” Good to hear from you, Mike.

The first news comes from Steve (Jeanne) Peterson writingfrom Lubbock, TXwherehecurrentlylives, but commutes fiveand a halfhours one way, weekly to Del Rio, where he is instructing on T-6 simulators at Laughlin. His note includes a great shot ofa proud dadwith sons Sean, (USAFA, ’03) and Gavin (USMA, ’00) on the occasion ofSean’s graduation from PilotTraining.

From left are Steve, Sean and Gavin.

Hegoes on tojoin brotherGavinflyingF-15s. Strangelyenough, even though Gavin went toWest Point, he managed to get smart fast, and cross-commissioned into theAirForce to beable to get into the flyinggame despitehisArmytypetraining. Lots ofothers have done it the same way. A bit ofironyfor Steve is that he got his own wings at Laughlin, and both sons did as well. Most folks whose kids have come in behind them mayhave followed them into aviation, but to have the kids gettheirwings at the same place as dad seems to be a bit unusual. Odds against it in light ofthe manypilottrainingbase closingswould seem even more dramatic.

Andy Ceroni mentioned a couple ofyears back thatwe’re getting to the age where our fathers mostly were in semiretirement. His image ofhis dad was sitting on the stoop in his undershirt. Just to ponder howdifferent our generation seems to be, here’s a shortword fromJim Hogan: “Enclosed is a picturewith me and my son Jim after a swim fromAlcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay. I had donethe swim a year prior and my son, 30 years younger, decided he couldn’t let the ‘old man’showhim up. It was fun and, yes, he did beat me.”

33 Sabre Society Donors

TheHogan boys afterpaddling theBay. Jimis theguyon theleft.

The controversy ofthe week, in case you have the good luck to live somewherewhere actual news occurs, is that some cadets and officershavehad the lackofgood sense to espouse a certain religiousviewin public. Forthe benefit oflater classes who mighthappen to read this, we marched to Chapel every Sunday.Where cadetswent afterfalling out is a littlehazytome now, especially those ofyou who weren’t Catholic or Protestant. What seems to be missing nowadays is tolerance from every side. Freedom ofreligion seems to imply license to disparage the otherperson’sviews on religion.Any comments from the real world?

Thanks to all the contributors, and hopeyou all have a wonderful summer. It’s almost time to cheer on the fall sports again!

Bob Bell

13 Pacific Ave.

Sinking Spring, PA 19608

(610) 678-3182/Fax: 678-4513

E-mail: rabell767@aol.com

Classmates of’72,1bringyou a shortnewsletter this time, so at least itwill be a quickread anyway. As ever, we solicit any and all input for inclusion in this column.

Another personalhighlight for Steve was beingright there to watch when Sean was doinghis initial solo andthe traditional dunking, as well as when he led a T-38 formation to a perfectlanding. That is definitely something that most dads never get to do. Also, Steve confirms that he did NOT instruct his sonsays it would have been counter productive for both ofthem. Congratulations to you andyour sons, Steve!

The last mail came via the internet and Doug “Mush” (Cheryl) Brower inwhich it is reported that new restaurant owners have shown up in Frisco, COwith the names ofJohn andJoanne Buchanan, known to some classmates as Buck.

The new place is called Samples, and Mush wonders out loud ifBuckwill be givinggrad discounts at his new establishment. According to thearticle Mush referenced, Samples is thefirstoftwo restaurants thatBuck andJoannehave opened in the area - the second is calledThe Cellar, and both establishmentswill offerwine tasting, small plates and a largewine selection. Johnhadbeen around Californiaworking in technologies andjustwanted to move back to Colorado for a change ofvenue. Theyhavelocated in Silverthome with its proximity to Denver.

Having no restaurant experience, John and Joanne hired a staffofprofessionals to guide them through. Joanne also works in software sales which keeps her on theroad in addition to staying active in the newbusiness venture. Sounds like a good idea to me - a great place to stop in and check out the offering! Good luck, John and Joanne!

Mush also had to leave in a hurry for a trip to Newark, NJ (from his swank Colorado digs) to make a flight to Anchorage where he was reportedlygoing to bebaskingin the sunnytropical50-degreeAlaskatemperature, whileCheryl and some otherfolks were stuckwith the snow shoveling, this in mid-April as the spring thaw was upon others ofus. In the meantime, we could not get the photo accompanyingthe storyabout the Buchanans from thewebsite it was on, so will have to try another time. Thanks for trying anyway, Mush. Your effort is appreciated.

Andthat is the end ofthe news forthis issue ofCheckpointsfrom the Class of ’72.1 will lookforward to more input from everyone as you allwind up your summer fun activities, OK?

Bob Munson

19245 Lincoln Green Lane Monument, CO 80132 (719) 487-1464

rmunson@adelphia.net

INTRODUCTION: Onrequest, theAOG revealedthere are 49 “Legacy” sons and daughters of 1973 grads: 37 graduates and 12 currently at USAFA. While getting information on classmates is sometimes tough, we are not sparing when it comes to bragging about our children. I’m happyto report that I got enoughpictures to print for a year... which is good; our kids are betterlooking than we are.

Sabre Society Donors

1973 LEGACYCADETS/GRADS: Leadoff 1973 Legacy was GregGempler’s son Keithwho graduated in 1997;he’snowanF-16IPatLukeAFB. Gregisa767 pilot forDelta andwithwife, Sharon, lives in the middle ofColorado. Three classmates have had two children graduate: Dave Skalko (Kelly '97 and Mark ’01), Dean Haylett (Marshal ’02 and DeAnna ’99), and Bob Summers (twins Marc and Brad in ’99). Bob and Jeanie Eames have to wait a fewyears to become double-legacyparents: Colin ’06 and Betsy ’08 are in the soccer program and plan on majoring in engineering. Vic Thuotte and Lee Zimmerman are double-legacyparents via a mutual acquisition arrangement: Chris Thuotte and Renee Zimmerman (both 2002) were married in April; Chris is with the OSI in Kyrgyzstan whilst Renee is Squadron Section Commander for C-17 maintenance at Charleston. Theircoming-togetherstoryis long, butsuffice to saythatthis marriage startedwithVic andLee’s time evadingtogetherin SERE. Vic and Connie also have another grad as son-in-law, Brian McDonald’96, matched with daughter Nicole. Lee and Nancy Zimmerman are in South Carolinawhere he does environmentallawand she’s a USC professor.

WolfGesch with Chris ’03andGehrig '27.

WolfGesch retired in Spring, TX after being theAFROTC/CC; now he’s the AFJROTCAreaAdministratorresponsible for 116 units inTexas and Louisiana. Son Chris ’03 is an EC-130H Nav at Davis-Monthan. Boyd and Janice Lease were in Hawaii so itfell to daughterRobin ’02 to let me knowthatshe graduated DG in Astro with minors in math and French; she’s now a T-6 instructor at Moody. Chip and Sue Frazieralsojust returned from Hawaii (did I miss a class special?); son Edwin III ’99 is initial cadre at Nellis where he developed the Intelligence SensorWeapons InstructorCourse fortheWeapons School. Ken and HermilaVargas-Charlesworth sent news ofCapt ErwinVargas ’99 who, after tours to Kyrgyzstan and Korea is at McChord organizing their deployments; he was WingOpen boxingchampion in 1999 and hopes to return to USAFA as OIC ofthe boxing team this Fall. I ran into RandyPutz’s son, Jeremy ’07, andhad a nicechat; hestartedwith 2006 buttook ayearoffto studyRussian in Moscow and is now a Management majorwith Russian minor. John and NancyMann also have their son John in 2007 who will major in CE like dad; theyalso have a Lt(jg) daughtergoingthrough the Navy’s Nuclear Power Program. Also in 2007 is Bart Noble’s son Mark and John Pretz’s daughterJoanne; John promises a picture for a future issue.

captain will pay a courtesyvisit to Air University Commander LtGen John Regni who used to drop by his cadet room and write comments about the cleanliness on the mirror. Jessica Regni ’03 finished theT-1 at Columbus; besides sweatingcheckridesJessica was concerned aboutwhatDadwould say as guestspeakerather 10Junegraduation. JackChristensenwas inthe firstDoolie class in CS-40 and Dave ’99 was in the lastFirstyclass to graduate from CS-40; Dave’s now at Tyndall as an F-15 instructor. Jackis recoveringfrom surgery: “it’s the second on thatknee; I’m earningfrequent bleeder pointswith the doctor.” BruceWrightwrote that daughterJessica ’04 is “as fired up as I have ever heard her” enteringtheT-38 phase offlight training and expecting to graduate this September.

Sabre Society Donors

The legacydata suggests that 1973 fertilitypeaked about two years aftergraduation as we had 10 Legacies in the class of1999; not mentioned already are JohnBlecher’s son Jarod, Dan Pierre’s son Douglas, andJimRussell’s son Scott. Thesecondfertilitypeak occurredfouryearslater as there were seven Legacygraduates in 2003. Bruce and Janet Meyer’s son Scott was in that year group; he lettered as a Falcon linemanforthreeyears. AfterT-38 traininghewill instructin theT-6 at Moody. Classmate Jeremy Kahoe will go from Altus to Charleston in the C-17 with wife, Cassidy. Parents Joe and Deborah Kahoe are in Colorado Springs; Joe’s signature blocksays he’s ProgramManagerforHomeland Defense Initiatives, ARINC EngineeringServices. Others in that 2003 group are John Barry’s son John, Steve Gulasey’s son Stephen, and Gene Malberg’sdaughter Sarah. Mark Englebretson’s son Eric was 2003 but medicallyseparated before graduation, he’s now doingcomputergraphicsworkinAdanta; Markis a high school counselor and coach in Colorado Springs.

Thanks to SteveDalrymplefortheidea forthis article;shown are Steve and DianaDalrymple ’08atParentsWeekend. Dianaison theSuperintendent’slist and went to the U.S. TriathlonNationals as the#1 qualifierforthe USAFA club.

Tim and Margaret Sisson retired toVacaville, CA, whereTim teaches in the school system; son Logan ’00 picked up a Masters in Ethics out ofthe Zoo before flight school. Logan flies C-2 Is at Scott and hopes for a C-17 next. BJ and Donna Stanton had to finallysaygoodbye from theirMonumenthome to Stuart '01 whenhegraduatedandwent to MIT; he’sbeen at .LA.AirStationsince and hopes to come back to teach in 2006. AbbyAlbert’s (’00) first assignment was to the C-130 “BlueTailed Flies” squadron at Ramstein, the same firstsquadron (then at Langley) thatJohnAlbertentered as a 2Lt navigator. John and Gini are nowrelocatingtoArlingtonVAwiththeStateDeptafter30yearsofsuccessfullyavoiding D.C. in theAirForce. Mike and Renee Harmon’s son, Mike '99, is at SOS en-route to Kunsan where he’ll flythe F-16. Presumablytheyoung

1973graduateGeneral Officerscapturedat theFebruary2005BlueSummit.

GENERAL OFFICERNOTES: Check out the ’73 star cluster! From left (all are in the D.C. area unless noted: BGenBradYoungis MobilizationAssistant to the DirectorofMaintenance and Logistics at HQ/ACCLangleyAFB. LtGen John Corleyspends $34B of our tax dollars yearly as Principle Deputy, Assistant Secretaryofthe Air Force forAcquisition.Appropriately, right next to him, MGen Joe Soveydecides which programs to fund as Director ofCapabilities Programs atWright-Patterson. LtGen Don “Hank” Wetekam willjuggle the BRAC bagofhotpotatoes in the comingyear as DeputyChiefofStaffforInstallations andLogistics. MGen DonWursteris the DeputyDirectorofthe Center for SpecialOperations (USSOCOM) at MacDill. LtGen Norty Schwartz is Director ofthe Joint Staff. MGen Rich Comer is Chiefofthe Office ofCoalition Coordination (USSOCOM) at MacDill. LtGen John Regni isAir University Commander at MaxwellAFB. MGen Frank Klotz is at FEWarren as the 20th Air Force Commander. MGen Steve Lorenz is everybody’s best friend as he disburses $107B a year as DeputyAssistant Secretary for Budget. MGen Jack Hudson isAssistant UnderSecretaryoftheAir Force for InternationalAffairs.

STILL SERVING UPDATE: Sgt RoweStayton is back from Baghdad!... and lookingfor something to keep him busyuntilhe deploysagain.

Joe Brezovic

1209 Bayou Oaks Drive Friendswood, TX 77546

H: (281) 482-6860

0: (281) 244-8325/Fax: (281) 244-8020

E-mail: jbrezovic@houston.rr.com joseph.brezovicl@jsc.nasa.gov

Hi classmates around theworld! I hope all continues well foryou andyours! Good news about classmates and stars! Newest to the 3-stars are: Rod Bishop who is the newVice Commander, United StatesAirForces inEurope, Ramstein AB, Germany; and Chris Kellywho is theVice Commander, Air MobilityCommand, ScottAFB, IL. Theyjoin ranks with LtGen Duncan McNabb. Duncan is serving as theJoint StaffJ-4. Congratulations all around! I hope I didn’tmiss one! As a DoD force structure update, Duncan is on one ofthe six panels that Mr. Rumsfeldhas establishedforthe QuadrennialDefense Review (ADR) 2005 to plan force structure, mix, and modernizing.

Starting over as a Lieutenant is Dave Galvin. Dave is a volunteer in the CAP program in the Dallas, TXarea, whereheis theAerospace Education Officerfor

Sherman CAP Squadron. Hewrote thatlikehe’s starting over because he served in the CAP before going to AFA- “gone the full circle.” Dave is a Meteorologist atAmericanAirlines inDFW. Chris Lanzit on the otherside oftheglobe,Beijing, China, steps in a new office. Chris applied/was offeredthe position ofExecutive Director—Chinafor the Consortium for Standards and ConformityAssessment (CSCA). The consortium is comprised ofASTM International (formerlyAmerican SocietyofTesting and Materials), ASME International (formerlyAmerican Society ofMechanical Engineers), CSAAmerica, andAmerican Petroleum Institute (API), fouroftheleadingstandards development organizations in the U.S. Chris looks forward to the challenge ofintegrating these folks. He and Linda have found a place to livejust four km east ofTiananmen Square on themainE-Wdragand are hopingto see lots ofoldMends in the mnup to the Olympics. The apartmentis only a kilometer or so fromthe new office so Chris has taken to pedalingwith the masses to and from work. [With gas prices in the U.S., onlythe distance causes me to drive! - ButId sure like to pedal like I used to while atAFA.]

Paul Kent

18166 S.E. 41st Place

Issaquah, WA 98027-9717

Mobile: (425) 785-3586

E-mail: zooscribe@mac.com

SCRIBEGENERAL. I’ve received lots ofrequests since myfirst article. Nevertheless, I have decided to write at least one more column. Captain Dinklesquat in English 101 said it was good practice forwhen I got a realjob; andthe waythis commercial airline business is heading, this may happen sooner than later.

19 Sabre Society Donors

One old friend fromAFA choir days wrote in recently. John Sweeneyflies for a fractional ownership company called Flight Options. They are the second largestcompanyofthis type inthe country. Johnpilots a small Beechjeteightdays on then seven off. Dave Hoglund sent in a short catchall note. Dave sayshe was in Nashua, NH, working some EWissueswith BAE Systems and one ofthe guyshad a copyofDefenseAcquisitionTechnology, andLogisticsmagazine. Right on the Ifont was the smilingface ofMaj Gen Darryl Scott, main man for the DCMA! Good to see someone we knowin print. Eightpageswith five pix... Go Darryl! Checkit out at http://www.dau.mil/pubs/dam/01_02_2005/ Jan_Feb_2005.asp. Dave had a chance to flywithJimPayne (Global HawkFlight Test manager) from his home airport in Rosamond and burn up the pattern in Mojave in his shiny new RV-6with a Subaru engine - - a fast and prettylittle bird! Dave still keeps reasonablybusywith the F35 development.

Steve and Suki Lenzi keptbusysellingtheirhouse, recently. Theymoved on anotherside ofHawaii and rent a house theycouldn’t afford to buy! Such a deal! And I thinktheystillwelcome visitors! Another move is classmateJoeTraflcanti. Joe recently assumed the position ofGeneral Counsel at Performance Food Group. PFG is a Richmond-based Fortune 300 company, not quite twice the size ofhis last company! As for other news, Joe wrote that he is now able to continue some affiliationwith the Air Force. He was nominated to (and now has attended one board meetingof) theBoard ofVsitors toAirUniversity,which governs all AF education (AU, AirWar College, ACSC, SOC [formerly SOS], ROTC, OTS, all NCO academies, etc.) exceptforAFA and pilottraining. He feels “It is nice being involved again.”

Stephen Daniels sent an update on his work as a contractor. “TheWargame project... has really taken offand there is talk ofexpansion to pickup another wargame as well. We also have another commandcampaigningforlong-term funding ofour concept. Just recently our project was ranked as the #3 priority for USTRANSCOM efforts with USJFCOM. Steve described this as integrating operations andlogisticstraining. Another move: Chris and Kim Campbellhave returned from Kuwait, but are probablyback there by now. Chris had been contemplatingtaking a position andhopes it to be a long-time associationwith a companythere.

Forotherstateside notes, I did meetwith one classmate,AndyGalik, forlunch at Denny’s. Andy and LuAnn live in the northern part ofHouston, TX. Andy works for an oil companyand seems quitepleasedwith thework and associationwith Exxon. TracyandCathyCheathamsentinanoteand smallnewsletter picture from Saratoga Springs, Utah. [Sorry, couldn’t make it nice for here photos or email jpg.] Cathyhelps with Healed/Forgiven and Set Free Bible studies as well as assisting at the PregnancyResource Center. Tracyconsiders flyingairplanes a privilege, but uncertainties at workhavecaused them to consider early retirement. One shortemail from Frank Mclntire. He is alive and well in Colorado Springsworking his way through several business ventures which sound verypromising. A note in too from Dino Schweitzer, also in COS. Dino has owned his own company for the past 10 years, but doing a career changebeginninginAugust. He accepted a positionbackup attheAcademy as Director ofa new research center in Information Security. He said it’s like going home and thathe’slookingforward to beingbackin research and academia. He andTed Roth can be seen together on the golflinks around COS.

On a respectful note, three classmates are new resting in peace. Lt Col (Ret) MerrittJ. Brown died on 28 Jan 2005 from cancer. Our condolences to hiswife, Mary. Col (Ret) RichardA Kirkpatrick died on 6 Mar 2005 in Niceville FL as the result oflung cancer. We send our condolences to his wife, Bernice. One last storyfrom Michael and Suzanne Fueyowho visitedAFA this spring. Michael wrote that: “The flags are at halfstafftoday to honorMajor Dennis M. Stockert (Ret). The service was also attended by an Honor Guard from theAcademy.” Hewrote about the service, the 21 -gun salute, the shells in a pouch and theFlag presentation to Sherry. I’m sure we send all our condolences to Sherry. I am sure that our classsends encouragement to all three families thathappy memories bringsolace. Mayeach ofyou buildyour fond memories today, and may you andyours live long and prosper.

D. C. ’75ers at the 2ndAnnual USAFA Founders Day Dinner. Back Row: Carlson, Cox, Smith, Lyerly, Smith-Harrison. FrontRow: Hargrove, Aland BillieBready, MikeAnderson andRene.

CLASSMATES. InJanuary, Phil Saenger s daughterSammanthagotthegood news shewill be in the Class of2009. Greg Dunbar was recentlyrediscovered living near Fallon NAS in Nevada. His main pursuit is trying to get his girlfriend to marryhim. Remember Classmates, we don’t ask“Why” questions. He wants to come to the reunion. Youknowwhat to askhim. In February, Dan Burda updated us with news that he is manufacturing in China, and livingthere halftheyear. Mike Heil, alias“Ziggy” and “Doctor”, who is Director of the Air Force Research LaboratoryPropulsion Directorate, made us proudbybeingquoted aboutfuture AF technology on the NBC Nightly News. MarkWells was justapproved as a PermanentProfessor at our oldAlma Mater. This means he can serve our countrypast30years. He and Donna head to Stuttgart nextJuly for a two-year sabbatical operational tour at HQ EUCOM. Afterwards, he’ll return to USAFA to run the Departmentof Historyagain. The onlybad news is that he maymiss our 30-year reunion. However, he’s relieved thathewon’t“have to run itagain!” and passes on that Scott Hente and the committeewill do a greatjob. Dennis Brooks received some well-deservedkudosin a newspaper article laudinghis (airplane) model buildingfor sick children at EastTennessee Children’s Hospital. Bill Murray sent theattached picture ofhim with President Bush’s former advisorKaren Hughes. Bill was at a weddinginAustin, TX and feltveryfortunate to speak to her. Then for his retirement, his wife gave him a signed copy ofher book, which he calls “phenomenal.”

BillMurrayand Karen Hughes

FromAlBready: “I bumped into Chris Soto a fewdays ago and he suggested that we ride our Harleys to our 30th in September. Ofcourse, that immediatelypromptedthoughts ofbuying a new Harleyforthe trip. While perusing theHarleywebsite, I came across the attachedpicture. The captionunderthe picture reads: ‘Mark Holmes, San Diego, and MerletteAndrews,Aurora, Ill., smileforthe camera while ridingdownMainStreet.’ Mythoughts were: ‘Foot-

ball team manager, our classmate MarkHolmes?’ Ifyou lookclosely, you can see his ring!”

MarkDHolmes on hisHawg, with his Class RingVisible.

Our newest Star: BG (Select) Duane Jones. Confirmation that sometimes you do thejob right, then getpromoted. Mike McKim received a newsmaker photo-op recently. He flies T-43s for a company called EG&G, and was participating in simulated hostage exercises. Lastly, on hearing ofmy new scribe duties, myold doolie roommate Scott Hammond was concerned that Iwould mention about the time he (felt he) caused us to fall off the ski lift chair at Breckenridge. I assured him I would never tell anybodyabout this, and as a former HonorRep, he could take myword on this promise. Remember classmates, your confidence is paramount with this new scribe.

30th REUNION. The dates are Sept 7-11. We will be staying at theAntlers Hilton. Mostregistration actions willbe automated, via the Internet. Thiswill be facilitated through the AOG’s new website. Go directly to (http:// www.usafa.org/pages/reunions/ 1975Reunion.htm). Our Class PresidentJim Carlson has put an enormous amount ofworkinto trying to locate everybody. As we’ve found, some ofus do not want to be located. That is fine. However, byandlarge, the searchhasbeenveryfruitful, with most ’75er s not even aware they were “lost.” For those of us that use Checkpoints as our only source of “BestAlive” news updates,pleasepass alongthis caveat to our classmateswho still want nothing to do with this sillycamaraderie and keepingin contact: the email and postal updates you pass to us (i.e., your classmate the Squadron POC, and not theAOG), should onlybeused by us. In otherwords, whenyou updateyourpersonalinformationwith theAOG, yourclassmates can’tdirectly receive this contact information, and must use theAOG website to facilitate any contact (with a blind unknown email address). Needless to say, this is a good idea on the part oftheAOG, and itprotects us from the veryfew unscrupulous thatmight use the contact informationforpurposes not intended. But because theAOG will not pass this information along, sending out periodic Class-specificupdates is problematic. Whenyou register at usafa.org, you get AOG official mailings (includingpertinent Reunion information). Whenyou giveyourtrustworthySquadron POC Classmate your contact information, he can keep you in the loop for anything he thinks might be noteworthy. Confused? Me too, sort of.

Here is a plea from our Class Prez: “We graduated 756 out of 1,404Appointments (47%Attrition); ifwe get two-thirds ofus to showup forthe reunion, it will be the greatestdang timewe’ve ever had. ..andshouldbreakallreunion records! I’ve been told byother classes that the 30th is the absolute BEST reunion! To date, we have 68 on regular active duty, 99 Guard/Reserve, 28 deceased (as ofthisupdate), 321 retired, and 346 separated (as ofthe current2004 Register, 1 Oct 04).”

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN. We approach a latter midpointofour lives when too manyofus are taking our finalflightvia avehiclereferred to as “Namral Causes”, whatever those might be for men in their early50s. It is with great sadness we must report that, in a short five-week span, three ofus took this journeyto meet our Makerfor our last inspection. OnFeb 4th, BillThompson lost a valiant four-yearfight with cancer. On Feb 27th, a sudden heart attack took Chuck Riordan from us. Chuck’s son Charlie is a 4th Class cadet at the Academy. And lest we be melancholy, the mention ofChuck’s name brought smiles ofearlyremembrances to his BCT mates. Apparendy, he was a champion “buffer rider” who would don cape and goggles, mount the buffer, and

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY!

YOUR MONEYHELPS FUND CADETWING PROGRAMS THAT >ULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUND1

CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

entertain Firsties and all to the song“Leader ofthe Pack.” Lastly, for those of us privileged to be included in Jon Turner’s postings ofhis battle with brain cancer, it was humblingtestimonyto his strength ofcharacterandhis positive spiritual outlook on life. He left this world for the Next on March 11 th

AtJon Turner’sService:JeffHacked, KentTraylor, PhilPearce, DaleMeyerrose, Jim Carlson, LarryBryant, SteveMorris, Mike Whitherspoon, BruceMitchell, Lee Colburn, Bran McAlister, andRexHoey.

In addition, from BentleyRayburn: ChiefLarryGarrett, theWingSergeant Majorduring ourjunior andthe beginning of our senioryear, passed away March 1 at age 73. And I will addthatinJanuary, I received a familyupdatefrom Katie Strunk, Pete’swidow. Pete was killedinApril 2003 when a driverswerved into his lane and hithis car head-on. She called herfamily’s lastyear an “emotional trauma-coma”, and adds “watch out for the other guy.”

NEXTCOLUMN. I’mwritingthis columnjust a fewdays after I received the April Checkpoints. So when most ofyou get around to reading our Class column from that issue, and decide to send me stuff, this column will alreadybe submitted for the May 9th deadline. Also, ifthe next column is a little sparse, please excuse me in advance. I mayberiding a HawgalongsideMarkHolmes. But I’ll wear a helmet; and that nosepiece looks painful.

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

Fellow76’ers, as I write this, graduation for 2005 isjust a fewweeks away. A new crop ofsecondlieutenants is about to hit the ‘realAir Force’. Ahhhhh... the exuberance ofyouth!

Firstofall, sad news this time. I learnedshortlyaftermylastarticle thatKevin Pedersen died onl9Jan2005in Minnesota.Ourcondolences to Dorothyand family. Ifyou need more info, please contact me.

30th Reunion: 8-12 November2006 is still the target. Ifyou have inputs, call or email me.

Lots ofinput this time classmates. Over20 pages ofraw inputplus sixphotos. Am limited to 1200 words / 3 photos so pardon my abbreviated cuts on your inputs.

Classmates moving/movingup: Jim Hunt to the pentagon as Dep Director J-8;Willie Shelton toVandenberg as 14thAF Commander; MarkWelsh to Dep Commander Surveillance & Recon, BollingAFB. Dave Clary, LarryNew, and MikeWorden all selectfor2ndstar! Congratsguys! Dave and Larrycurrentlyin NATO; Mike still at the Pentagon.

Retirements: Marc Felman retired 27 May and will work for Booz-Allen. TerryWilliams hadhis ceremony20 May. Jim Rose, RickDavila, StefEisen, and Jimmy Carter attended. Jim sent a photo:

JimRose, TerryWilliams, RickDavila, StefEisen, andJimmyCarterat Terry’s retirement.

Jim is still flyingAmerican; Rick works forARCIAI, aVirginia information assurance firm; Stefis onAU staff;Jimmyis atJohnsHopkinsAppliedPhysics Lab in the C2/Tacairbusiness area; andTerryjoined a civitan organization and will work from home.

General Class Stuff: A ‘strange-but-true’ storyto start with this time. Russ Laney and I, although never in the same squadron as cadets, are now “room mates” here at theAOG. Westarted sharing an officejust a fewweeks ago. Russ and I are trulyamazed that the two bestlooking guys in our class ended up in the same office on USAFA after all theseyears!

Dan BeattyandRuss Laneyat theAOG.

Speakingofroommates, an old30th Sqroomie ofmine, Mike Duclos, is alive andwell in SanAntonio workingfor USAA; one daughterstill at home, two out ofthe house, and he has five grandkids. Haven’t heard from Duker sincejust aftergraduation so nice to linkup again afterall theseyears. Ever prolific Mike Fricano notes that he saw Kerry Keithcart, Mike Underwood, Lance Christian, Dave Merrill, Greg Bricker, Jim Marg, Bill Carolan, Mark Meyers, Bob Vaughn, Bob Norman, Mark Schwing, Bob Hinger, and Byron Hepburn at the Airlift/Tanker Association conventionin Dallas last fall. Says he (Fric), Hepburn, Marg, Christian, Norman, and (he thinks) Meyers are still in uniform, andthe others are allmisters now. Fricalso sawRob Preissinger at PACOM HQ; sees RandyChangoccasionally at the monthlyAOG chaptermeetings; Mike Kellydroppedby, he’sAF/XOXHomeland SecurityCONOPS Champion (working for MikeWorden); he saw both Mike Worden (AF/XOX) and Steve Frye (AF/XORPcivilian) at a DC Future Total Force GO SteeringGroup meeting and ran into Mike Underwood at the airport. Lance sent an addendum telling me heis atAFFSA atAndrews, andwhile goingthrough some oldAFFSA things in a closet he found Bert Madsen’s retirement stuff (shadowbox, pictures, etc). I sent address info to Lance; hope he was able to hookupwith Bert. Lancetells me he,JohnHildebrandt, JimmyCarter,JoeMarchino, DaveYauch, Mike Byers, Jim Buck, and Rick Sinclair did some hackin’ & duffin’ at the National CapitalFlightScholarship GolfTourney.

Brian Meehan sent this photo from the D.C. AF Reserve SeniorLeaderConference. From left are BGen (S) Kevin Henabray, MA toACC/XP; MGen Dave Robinson, MA to ACC/DO; BGen (S) Mike Wilson, MA to AFSOC/DO; BGen Ben “Boats” Bartlett, MAto AF/XOO; ColJimHogue, MAto CommanderAF FlightTest Center; andBGen (S) BrianMeenan, MAto USAFE/DO. (Notshown is ColDallas Thompson, MA to AF/XOR).

how we carried armloads ofbooks instead ofusingbackpacks as cadets do now. He is a process engineer in Texas; has five kids (one still in high school) but no grandkidsyet. Tom Greene organized a ‘March Madness’ NCAA pool (virtual dollars on/y!) for ’76er s. Participants included Tim Lewis, Garry Flemmings, Bud Nevers, Mike McGinty, RalphGibson, Zack Zacour, TerryWilliams, Ben Thomson, andTom Hancock.

Tom reports Mike McGinty won all twelve virtual dollars!

Didjabuyanyone a virtual beverage Mike?

Bill Schwartz corrected StuYoung’s address and says he is looking forward to the reunion. JeffLarsen “commented” on thereunionplan. Since hemayend up on the committee, I told him ifit all goes poorly, I would ensure he gets credit!!

Sabre Society Donors

Don Pickett lunched with Barry Gamblin. Barry is the IT professional for the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder; has two boys 28 and 23, and has two grandkids. Pat O’Brien sent me a suggestion forthe reunion. DennyShupe is now National Chair of the USO Affiliate Council. Says USO plans to open a USO center at Denver Airportlater thisyear.

MickErdle and I (and our spouses) and Russ Laneybrokebread at Founders Day Dinner. Mickfailed to produce his 76 coin that evening so myfuture bar bill will be a tad smaller. Doug Fryupdated Tom Perraro’s email, and forwarded an update from Les Garrison. Les is a Dept ofArmycivilian servingin Iraq. Stay safe Les! Scott McComb had me add him to my email listing, and John Crowley, Chris Curry, andJimRooney sent me address updates. Steve Nickel says he and Reitalive in Castle Rock; he is UA757/767 first officer, their five kiddos are doing well. Also got short notes from Mike Hoyes, John Bauschlicher, ChuckCurran, DaveYauch, ‘PapaJoe’ Marchino, Rob Sheridan, Mark Starr, John Rivera, and Mike Beauchamp.

Time to wrap this up. As always, ifyou are headed to the Springs, let me or anyofthe otherlocals knowandwe’ll see ifwe can’tjoin up for a fewstories and updates. Keep flyingyour flags and let our deployed troops knowyou have them inyourthoughts and prayers. The Spiritof’76 is s£i//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

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: Every now and then bits ofinformation backup in your friendlyscribe’s smoothlyfunctioning, well-oiled, knowledge managementsystem, i.e., my desktop—No, I don’t mean the desktop on myDell Latitude, I mean my wooden desktop, which is literally coveredwith post-it notes, files and hastily scribbled reminders. In order to clear the maple, I thought Iti start with a couple ofold lawyerphotos to set the tone.

CAN YOU PICK THE ATTORNEY OUT IN THESE PHOTOS? Kevin Carmichael (Maria) is an extremelysuccessful tax lawyerlivingin a lovelyspot —Naples, FL. No doubt as a result ofhis heritage from goingto theZoo, Kevin works for an organization that rescues and treats severelysickanimals. Thus, the followingphotofeaturingKevin and one ofthe association’schimpanzee’s, who has cerebral palsy.

Morgan

help

July

Mike Sackley

December 72. Stan

I

Bill Dea

me

locate Bill Metzler? Did you hook up Bill? A1 Patriquinflies Delta 767’s out ofJFK; asked me to help him track down RexArmstrong; Dwight Landmann; Sean Kelly; HarryDutchysyn; Roger Clements; Phil Schlener; Jack Campbell and Edmundo Bellini for a soccer legacy event. A1 says he occasionally sees MikeWilson,Tom Dankenbring, Karl Dittmer, MikeHauser, LarryEngleson, George Burnette, JohnArmor, JeffBecker, Jamie Bosworth, ChuckMcGee, andWarnie Meisetschleager.

Dave Srulowitz responded to my‘Falcon Dance’ email. Reminisced about

Despite Kevin’s goodintentions, afterhe sent this photo to me I e-mailedhim back asking, “Is this reverse evolution?” Greatwork, Kevin, and thanks for all your other support on our joint effort.

Although I have already mentioned it, Paul Pirog (Mary) is now the Permanent ProfessorofLaw at theZoo. Onlytheydon’t callthem Permanent Professors anymore, but rather, “Professor, USAFA.” Kind oflike “Meal, Ready to Eat.” Everythingultimatelybecomes a food analogyanyway. Here’s a picture

Charlie

rang in from Barksdale, says he serves with Bob Tarterwho was Spirit of76 from

to

Correiaasked me to help him track down

and

was able to hook them up.

asked

to

him

Dick, my old boxing partner, is flying for Delta, while Scott is with SAIC in Omaha. Steve and Jeffwork at the USAFA, Steve for the alumni office andJeff as the water polo coach. Congrats all around, Paul, and I’ll look forward to seeingyou in the fall.

WECAN SAYWE KNEWTHEMWHEN: In addition to beginningthe 77 takeover ofthe permanentfaculty at the almamater, I have excellent news regarding some of our other classmates. Doug Beason (Cindy), author, musician and nuclear physicist, has now been appointed to the Los Alamos National Lab’s HeadofThreatReductionPrograms. When I spoke to Doug, he described thejob as essentiallydetectingand eliminatingweapons ofmass destruction. Sounds so simplewhen Dougsays itthatway. That’swhyDougis not a lawyer. The divisions under his supervision include Bioscience, DecisionApplications, International Space andResponse, and NuclearNonproliferation. That covers thewaterfront as far asWMDs go, I reckon. I now envision Doug in a kind of “24” setting, although I hope things go better for him than for Jack Bauer. Congratulations again, Doug, (and sorry about inexplicablycalling you “Greg” in the last column).

Rob Shaw (Cathy)just gotpicked up for 0-6 in the Reserves; this couldwell be the last promotion to Colonel in our class. Rob told me he got the news on his 50th birthday, a pretty nice gift for an activeAdmissions Liaison Officer. Congrats, Rob, and keep pumping those quality folks to theAcademy. Curt and Ina Bedke have quietlylefthis post at NSA (is there anyotherway to leave that agency?). Curt is now the head ofthe FlightTest Center at Edwards, his third Edwards assignment. Curt’s comment, “I am in the Greatest Job in the Entire Universe!” He’s backin the cockpit,flying every type ofplaneimaginable and, in addition to his day-to-day stuff, working to properly fund the FlightTest Museum. Based on theirChristmas letter, he and Inawillprobably be movingagainshortlybuttheyhad a chance to take almost three weeks goingthrough Scandinavia cruising the fjords. Kurt also reports that he attended JeffOhlinger’s (Nancy) change-of-command ceremony Jeff left the Det 5, AFOTEC positionwhere he was responsiblefor the T & E of most ofEdwards’ aircraft and worked with Lee Gustin (Kathryn) who’s a Reserve 0-6, prior to Lee beingpromoted to the MobilityAssistant to the Odgen ALC Commander at Hill. Congrats to you guys too.

21

Sabre Society Donors

Myconsistent correspondent Scott Harrod (Anita) dropped me a line to let me knowhe’sworkingforRickPerrault (JoAnn) and also running fortheschool board in SanAntonio. Scott notes heis followingin thefootsteps ofhisfellowCellarRat, MontyMontgomerywho ispresidentofhisschoolboard district in St. Louis. Bob Samoski (Janet) isheadingup a new programdesigned to create international affairs specialists forthevarious hot zones in which the Air Force is operating these days. Bob, who is fluent in Thai, is settingupprogramsinvolvingadvancedcountrystudyforspecialistswhowill actuallyhave to beable to speakthelanguage as partofthe qualifications. Maybewe are getting smarter about this. Bob got a nice quote in an Air Force press release that Duff Muir (Mary) sent on to me.

Rick Newton (Cathy) dropped me a short note from Hurlburt where he is teaching at the Joint SpecialOps University. They survived Hurricane Ivan, but lost all the big trees around their house. Fortunately, none ofthe trees invited themselves in. Rick’s oldest is with an attack helicopter battalion in Iraq, while his youngest is a two-smoke at the Zoo. He bumped into Stu Williams (Juli) skiingin Idaho; Stu is flyingforSouthwestandliving in Henderson, NV Rick also chatted with QuaySnyder (Beth) recently. Quayis runninghis own aviation medicine company in Denver. Rick’s getting lots oftravel in while instructingin the special ops world, including overseas trips to NATO. Thanks for the update, Rick, and continue to travel safe.

VISITATIONS: In addition to supplying me with material, DuffMuir (Mary) and I managed to get together on one ofhis layovers with United. He looks great and is doing a variety ofthings outside the airline biz, which, given the waythings are going, is probably a smart career move.

Gary Hamor (Ellen) andVan Davis (Holly) swung throughChicago as they

made presentations on lean managementstyles at a conference here. Gary runs his own consultingbusiness, helpingcompanies streamline manufacturingprocesses and expandinghiswork to include white-collar operations. His big news is that Ellenjustgraduated from FrontierAirlines flightattendant schooland is now headed into the airline world. Perhaps she should speak with Dufffirst.

Van is managingtankertechnologydevelopmentforBoeing out ofSt. Louis andhad some greatstories to tellaboutthatprogram and its current battlewith Airbus. I learned so much from these two guys over the course ofa very good Italian meal (punintended) that I felt I shouldbe applying forcontinuingeducation creditwiththelocalbar association. We had a greattime and I promise photos for the next issue.

FINITO ERGO SUM:With apologies to Descarte, this ends another column. You’ll be readingthis in the summer and I hopeeverybodyis healthy,wealthy andcool. Keepsendingthoseupdates andlookfor me in thefall. Beseeingyou.

Bob Kay

40411 Tesoro Lane

Palmdale, CA 93551

Home:(661) 274-2201

Work: (661) 824-6426

Email: Robert.kay@baesystems.com

Greetings’78ers...

I hope all is well with you and your families. Myhumble apologies for not having an article in theWinter issue due to mylaptopbeing stolen. I learned a great dealduringthatexperience... the most important one is to back up everything, and often. Iwouldhighly recommend that ifyou don’t alreadydo that to yourcomputer(s). I am in thehopes that itwon’thappenagain and I appreciate you patience and understanding.

Two bittersweetitems right offthebat. As most ofyouprobablyknowbynow, Ron Rosepink’s remains were found in Marchveryclose to where he hadbeen paragliding. Two hikers found some ofhis remains in a heavilywooded area andsearch/rescue teams were called in to find the rest to include his equipment. Deb and the kids immediatelyflew out and are thankful to put closure and lay Ron to rest. Mypersonal thanks for your support during this most difficult time for the family. IfI hear anymore info, I will post in future articles. Also, received some sad news from Dave Winingerconcerningthedeath of Kevin Rank. Kevin passed away in his sleep at his home in McRae, AR on 19 April 2005. He had been sufferingfromParkinson’s Disease for some time-was medically retired from Lockheed in 2002 due to the illness. A memorial was held on the 23rd ofApril at 1st Baptist Church in Beebe, AR and a “Karaoke and Prayer Bash” (Kevin loved Christian Rockmusic) that evening in the localcollege student center. His bodywas given to science and when it is given back it will be cremated. There will be a burial/memorial service at the National cemetery in Denver. Kevin is survived byhis spouse, April Weichbrodt Rank, and his two nephews, Nicholas and JosephWeichbrodt, ages 6 and 7. He is also survived by his sisterKathyRankand stepmotherFritzWebber, both ofDenver. Dave said that in addition to himself, Jan Schauble was at the memorial service. April is doingwell under the circumstances surrounded by the presence and prayers of friends and family.

Sabre Society Donors

Dave went on to saythat he retired from active duty a few yearsbackandtookup residence at Langleytowork on the E10A(767 that I believe willeventuallyreplace the E-3AAWACS). Afterfouryears atLangley, heandRuthwillbemoving to Omahalaterthismonth to be nearer his grandchild. Heworks two desks down fromJeffStough andRayHatchell isalso in the office. Greg Milleralso works the program in SAF/AQI at the Pentagon. Thanks again forthe info Dave.

Some ofthis quarter’s article maybe dated as I tryandcatch up from the last one. Back in February I received a nice note from fellow UPT classmate and past scribe Sig Nelson whostill flies forAmerican. He recentlyleft his Guard job and signed up in the “non-affiliated” Reserveswhilejobhuntingfor something to finish up his militarytimewith. In his“free” time (he hadjustreturned from a trip and was getting ready to go on another one... hey, thought you airline guyshadlots oftime off!) he runs around after 1 Vi-year-old Conrad. He also mentionedthathe sawJoe Mattuski (another 80-02 UPTclassmate... has it been thatlong?) while in Phoenix. Joe is a Captain for Southwest living in Monument. Let us hear fromyouJoe! Thanks forthe great info Sig... always a pleasurehearingfrom you.

Speaking ofpast scribes, the one and onlyGreg “Kais” Kaiser wrote backin March where he had recentlyreturned from Kip “Bonemass” Warton’s retirement at Ft LeavenworthinApril. Kip heldtheceremonyattheMemorialChapel on the post, anothervery reverent placejust like the cadet chapel, only on a smallerscale. His dad, Lt Col (ret) Gerald B. Warton, was the officiatingofficer in a verynice ceremony. Kais met Kip’s new bride, Julia, who he said is a very classyladyalongwith the rest oftheWarton familyand some ofJulia’s, as well. Rick “RD” Davidage and his wife, Nancy, drove over from western Illinois for

ofPaul’s Investiture Ceremony. From left are Dick Corzine (Kim), Scott Hutt (Susan), Paul, Steve Simon (Paula) and JeffHeidmous (Barbara).

the ceremony, to round out the’78 presence. Kais notedthatthere was a strong Air Force presence at Kip’s retirement; that and a significant group ofArmy folks as well as themanypeoplethatKip touchedduringhis tourthere. Congrats Kip... the AF andtheArmywill miss you guys.

Concerning RD, he spends his time farming, hunting, and fishing and was hardlyrecognizable with longer hair than when he left for the Academy as a teen (Kais hastened to add thathe was also sporting a significantbeard). RD’s wife, Nancy, looked great and teaches aerobics at theYMCAin Macomb, IL. You are still the man Kais... thanks.

For those ofyou who have a tough time watching Donald Trump and his minions on TheApprentice, MarkWerthman wrote about seeing a certain Rick Searfoss puttingthe gangthrough the paces in the “pukemaster”weightless astronaut trainer. I chattedwith Rickabout itjust before the airingofthe show andwhile he wasn’t at liberty to discuss details until afterthe airing, hesaid it was a most interestingexperience. Rickis keepingverybusywith his motivational speaking, consulting business and keeping up with three very active daughters. Mark, also said that GoldyGoldfein (we weremere hours ofmeeting up at Holloman last month while I was on an aircraft deliveryand he was doing a command visit) is his boss’ boss and Mark’s additional rater on his OPRs (Officer Performance Report that replaced the OfficerEffectiveness Reportforthose ofyouwho have been out for a while). Markcontinues to do our class proud on active duty as the Operations divisionchiefin theAirWarfare Battlelab at Mountain Home.

Yet anotherformerscribe, T.J. Whitehair, wrote (I thinkyou guys are keeping an eye on me) after reading last Fall’s article. He and Don Alston did Titans together a long,longtime ago in a galaxyfar, farawaywhileheand Matt Lacourse (whom I still see a couple oftimes a month at Tyndall) were Smacks together. T.J. is still cancer free (YESSSS!), over 50 and thinking about finishing up his pilot’s license after a 35-yearhiatus (no sweatT.J...it’ll come rightback to you).

Steve Sargeantkindlytookthe time to send a greatpicture ofseveral general officers (who happen to be our classmates) in Baghdad, Iraq this pastApril at the Crossed Swords. Bob Steely" Steel was on his last day ofa one-year assignment before turning over the reigns as theACCE to Multi-national ForceIraq to Dave Eidsaune. Steely is en route to command the wing at RAF Lakenheath. Speaking of Don Alston, he is currently the DCS for Strategic Communications; Neal Barlow was just three days awayfrom completing a nine- month tour as the Director ofthe Joint Area Support Group - he will return to USAFA as the head oftheAero department. Steve is inhis 16th month as the DCS for Strategy, Plans andAssessment - will have been justshy of 18 months when he departs (will have alreadyleft bythe time y’all read this) on 30 May... en route to USFK in Seoul, Korea. Steve made itveryclear that our class is having a bigimpact on the war in Iraq but all were understandably lookingforward to seeingmore ofclassmates inthenot-too-distantfuturewhen theyfinished their tours. Thanks foryour service gents in less than pleasant circumstances.

We’reallsmilingalthough NealandSteely aregoinghome!

Finally, a few moves: Mike “Snod” Snodgrass is due to giveup the reins ofthe 3rd Wing at Elmendorfto non otherthan Herb “Hawk” Carlisle. Not sure when the change ofcommand will be or was. Joe Reyneswill gethis secondwing at Osan aftersweatingit out as the CENTCOM exec forthe past 18 months. Dave “Limo” Scott became our 35th flag officer (I still believe that is a class record by a bigmargin) on the latest BGlist and moves on as theVice DO at NORAD. Good on you Limo! Dick Newton moved working J-3 on the Joint Staff to beingtheJ-5 on theSTRATCOMMstaff. What a concept...78 remainsin charge! I am now officiallyout ofroom and appreciate the info you guys continue to provide. Hope everyone has a blessed summer. 78 is GREAT!

Visit the NEWAOG Web Site.

Merchandise, Gone ButNot Forgotten and More! www.usafa.org

John “J.R.” Dallas

1612 Rannoch Trace

Fort Smith, AR 72908 (479) 648-0433/DSN: 778-5188

John.Dallas@arftsm.ang.af.mil

Greetings fromArkansas. Thanks forallthe info sent - hopeyou enjoycatching up. To refresh all, here are the addresses to send info/news and the deadline date that we need info for our articles:Trash79@adelphia.net (1Jan), then john.dallas@arftsm.ang.af.mil (lOMarch), then bkoechel@comcast.net (15Jun), thenbvasquez79@aol.com (15Sep).

Iknowthatthereunionwas fantastic. Forthosethat sentcondolences to me on thedeathofmyMomthatweek, I appreciateyourkindnessandprayers. Friends likeyou are somethingspecial, and I will never forgetyou andyours. Thanks.

Onwiththe news - BGenJanJouas istheWG/CC atKadenaflyingF15s anddid a stint as theDirector,AirComponentCoordinationElementforJTF536atUtapao near Bangkok. PCSedfromEielson afterhisF15 checkout. Steve Mathews (AAL) finallygot smart andmarriedlongtimegirlfriend Caroline. Livingthegoodlifein Miami. SteveGrunwald (DeputyDirectorinSAF/AQI) wrote an updatefromthe Beltway—saysthatKeithTrouborstistheC4ISRIntegrationDivisionChief; Dave Saffordis a Division ChiefofSAF/AQPB; Pete Bunce recentlymarriedbeautiful Patti; andTomMcCarthytransferred to Nellis as theViceWingCC.

DougLengenfelder sent his first news update since 79! Passes that he’s the OG/CC at Bolling as he oversees the USAF Honor Guard, USAF Band, USAF Chaplaincy, and all communityrelations and dignitary events in D.C. About 1,300 funerals a year. He,Terry, Derek, and Hayley are enroute to Argentina as Dougwillbe theDefenseAttachethere. GodspeedDoug. Thanks fortheemail. Don’twait another25years though! JeffAshbywishes to challenge the ChuckSmileyclaim ofbeingthe “oldest” “newest” dad (Dec’03). Jeff’swife, MaryKay, gave birth to JeffJrinApr ’04. Jeffleft the AF in ’85 and works in the Surgical Device industry as a partner in the KLS-Martin company. Says that the USAFAhospital is a great customer. Thanks, Jeff.

8

Sabre Society Donors

As for Chuck Smiley - he’s now the CE Division Chieffor HQPACAF at Hickham. Before that, as the Dover MSG/CC, he oversaw the Port Mortuaryandhadthe honorofmeeting everyairplane that arrivedwith our nation’s honored dead, as their remains were brought to our shore forburial. Memorable I am sure. Thanks, Chuck. Korky Von Kessel wrote that he retired in Oct ’04 and has openedhis own management consultantbusiness. Going from a “C” in Management 101 atUSAFAto his own company-that is scary. He retired from the J3 job at NORAD. Kids are soon out ofthe house leavingKaye to put up with Korky alone. Prayers are with you Kaye.

John Susalla (NWAA320FO) writes to report that alongside the airline gig, he’s still theAcademyALO in Michigan as the director. Says that the OPRs are gettingoldbutheloves the familyandcandidate contacts he makes. While on aUSAFAALOtriphe saw otherALOsAlJohnson (DAL), Ed Bubicki (AAL), and Paul Schubert (banker).

RandyFulhartwrites thathe and Kathy are enjoyingthe charms ofthe South as he’s the Commandant oftheACSC school at Maxwell. Randypinned his 1 st star on in January. EricAsh is now the Commander oftheAFROTC Detachment in Fargo, ND. Mike Bradleyretired and is now a contractorwith General Dynamics in theirAdvanced Information Services company. John Courtney retired and is theVice Director ofthe Ops and Sustainment System Group at GunterAnnexMaxwell as an IT contractor. Ken Hollenbeckwrites thathe’s the CommanderoftheAFROTC detachment at Embry-Riddle in Prescott, AZ. His is the 3rd largest detachmentwith300 cadets. Says thathe andVicky are emptynesters and enjoying it. Spent their 25lh weddinganniversary in LasVegas. Congrats!

Jori Cromwell checkedin sayingthathe’s the 53rdWeapons EvaluationGroup deputycommander atTyndall. He flies the QF-4with theAerialTargetSquadron. He’s offto Belgium in April 2006 as an AirAttache. First goes to D.C. for French languagetraining. Previous attache duty was in Kosovo. Definitely coolJori! Dennis Hilleywrites thathe’s the DeputyDirector ofSpacePrograms in OSD, butbetterthan that, he’s now engaged to Christine (USAFA ’89). Wedding in July. Best ofluck from all ’79ers. He reports that Brian Kellyis the OG/ CC at MacDill; andthatPatDavis’ seventhbook comes out this summer (murder mystery at USAFA) - wonder ifthe underground tunnels are involved? Thanks, Dennis.

Gary Harris (DAL) reports that Doug Robb is now the CENTCOM Command Surgeon at MacDill and that Brian Kelly went to Afghanistan to investigate an accidentofa contractor aircraftthere. Thephoto is Brianinfrontofthe Tower at BagramAirbase. RandyMeyer (56FW/IG) writes that he,WaltWright (560G/CC), Robin Rand, and MikeWatson arekeepingthegolfcourse at Luke AFB solvent. SorryI missed thegolfmatch awhileback, guys. Iknowyoucould have used my money! MarkStearns is the 12AF/CVatTucson. He and wife, Darcy, are doingwell. Marksays the golfis perfect and can get on anycourse! The pull that a 1 star has. Man.

Brian Kellyin frontofthe ToweratBagramAirbase.

Seagram Seven’s Elden Kocourek (Contingency Ops Division at USNORTHCOM) writes that: Pete Bunce’s son was wounded in Iraq (USMarine) - keep Pete andfamilyinyourprayers please. MarkLukasikhas a daughter atAFA gettingreadyto graduate: MackFudge (Armyvet) is at Ft Sam Houston doingresearch in theveterinaryfield; Tim McLean is a real estate mogulin Virginia; MarkHargroveiswith BoeingCorp inWashington state as a pilot; Dan Boylen still with Deltaliving in Colorado; TomVeraworks forVerizon in COS. Elden and Candi are lovingCOSwhile theirkids spend theirmoney at colleges in Florida. Retirementpossible this year.

FLASH! Records are meant to be broken—JeffAshby’s record has already been shattered— sixparagraphs later. Stu Kerrwrites thatwife, Renee,just delivered their first child - Amelia Lynley- in earlyFeb 2005. Congrats! Baby and Mom are great. Stu is the Systems DirectorofIntegrationforthe GPS program atAerospace Corporation in California. Glad mom and baby are fine! Enjoy! Jeff, itwas a good run while it lasted! PatTisdale reports that he and Liz celebratingwedding#15 in June. Congrats.

BGen Bill Rewis in Misawadoinghissecond shot atWingCCduty. He, Christy and girls are lovingthe island,plusflyingthe Block50 F16isn’t too bad. Thanks, Bill. Joe Dent is the SJAofHQAFR at Robins. Says that Bob Swain and George Pearce are also there. MikeThomas retiresJune ’05 at Offutt, buthe’ll stayinthe area as the deputycommander ofthe CAPunit in Omaha. Congrats, Mike. Jim Gentemann writes thathe and MarcyloveAnchorage. He’llbewith the AirOpsSqdnuntil Sep ’06in the RetiredAviatorRecall Program (RARP). Works in theAlaskaCAOC as ChiefofCombat Ops. Son in college (Alaska). Daughter inhigh school. Salmonfishingwas greatthisyear - but ‘stock’ is depletingfast. Same with the moose meat in the freezer.

Mike Brill writes that he’s a fulltime Reservist flying F16s at Hill. He’s the squadron commanderthere—been flyingF16s for24 straightyears! Works at a local ski resort on weekends and enjoys his Harleys and horses with wife, Jean. Thanks, Brillo. I hope all have seen Irv Lessel on TV doing interviews from Baghdad. Irvjust finished an eight-month tour as the Deputy Chiefof Stafffor Strategic Communications. Hehas done a fantasticjob in helpingthe Iraqigovernment on theirmarch to democracy. Hewrites that on election day, hetouredBaghdadvia a Blackhawkand sawthethousands ofIraqiswalking to the polls for the first time ever. Irv-greatjob. You were part ofhistory! The photographbelow is ofhim andthe new Iraqi Minister ofState. The Minister is displaying his purplefinger.

Rob Rowe writes that the reunion was a blur—so manyto see and so much to say. He is the ChiefPilot, U-2 Flight Test at Palmdale for Lockheed. Has worked there for 11+ years and it’s still going strong. He and wife, Diane, brought their quadruplets to the reunion (2nd graders), and Rob wonders if they are the firstset ofquadruplet“spawnlings” producedby a USAFA grad. The macho in 79 lives! Thanks, Rob.

That’s it for me and 2005. As you read thisarticle this summer, I will be in lovely, sunny Balad Airbase, Iraq. Just doing my fair share. Praying thatyou and yours stay safe and prosperous. 79 is MightyFine! Always was. Always will be! Phil Finch wishes to remind us that our new U.S. AttorneyGeneral, Alberto Gonzales, did two years at USAFA as a ’79er. It's good to have friends in highplaces! Seeya!

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

As you know (unless you don’t read any ofyour mail), our reunion is in November. For all but the last dayofour bash in 2000,1 was in initial training for my short-lived, post-military dream job so I’m particularlyeager to get the chance to mingle with all ofyou this time.

Oops. I forgot I had a picture ofCarrie (Banwell) (Ken 78) Gronewald and companylast go:

In response to my request for short blurbs (“Please, Sir, may I have more?”—Oliver): Kirk Yost retired Jan 2003. He’s “dug in as a NorthernVirginia suburbanite. I have a son in elementary school, a garage full ofstuff, and ajob as a defense consultant. Havingworked on theAir Staff(twice), the Joint Staff, and in OSD, probably the most charitable things that I can say about my career is that 1) I have probably become an uber-bureaucrat, and 2) I can rea/Jynavigate in the Pentagon. I see KathyConleyand Tom Ehrhard frequently, and both ofthem have positionswith a fair amount ofinfluence. Of course, I give them my expensive advice for free, but I don’t askwhat (if anything) they do with it.”

David (Laura+3) Vallado lives in Monument, CO, and has land in Leadville they are (slowly) clearing for the future. He works forAGI and has an Astro textbook to his name. Besides the normal running around with the kids’ activities they are also very involved with their church.

David took on the responsibility ofteaching an adult Bible class: “We had several weeks with over 70 people that’s enough to make you prepare!”

TonyWoluskyfinallyretired. “I ended my career at Keesler AFB, theDeputyStaffJudgeAdvocatefor2AF Believe it or not, I got sentthere at the 19-yearpoint (Ileftactive dutyin 1985 for fouryearsserving as an Intelofficerin the Reserves beforemy recall in 1992) from myjob as DeputySJAat HQ USAFAlegal. I asked to stayformylastyear, butface-savinghousecleaning was the order ofthe dayall across the BlueZoo in thewake ofthe “sexassault” scandal. I’mhome in Colorado Springs, reunitedwith myfamily, andworking as an online instructorforseveral schools across theU.S. I am teachingclasses in legal procedure, terrorism, criminal law, policing, criminology, etc. while my wife, Deb, works full-time as a GS-13 at Peterson AFB for the J-5 at USNORTHCOM. My10-year-olddaughtergoes to theelementaryschool across the street and I get to spendqualitytimewithherafterallthoseseparationswhile Dad was in Bosnia, Saudi, Korea, etc. Life isverygood!”

Margie (Clark) (BJ+2) Varuska now permanentlyresides in Cape Canaveral, FL. Margie flies out ofOrlando for Southwest; BJ works for First Command Financial Planning. Seems there was a social event recentlyin Cocoa Beach that caught a handful of’80 types: ColJC (Joan) Chemiga, Commander, Space Shuttle ContingencyOps; BG-sel Susan Helms, Deputy Dir ofOps forTech Training at HQAETC; and Col Guy (Sara+3) Turner, Commander, Air Force TechnicalApplications Center at Patrick.

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY!

YOUR MONEYHELPS FUND CADETWING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED.

CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

The Gronewalds atRachel's Washington State cross countryrace.

Sabre Society Donors

Jay (Sue+3) McFaydenwith some quickbullets: “We’ve lived inAgouraHills, CAforalmost 15 years. Boy, thatwent byfast. I am the General Counsel ofRed Bull Energy Drink in Santa Monica, CA. (I got myJD from Georgetown way back in ’85; got out oftheAF in 1990 after serving as a JAG.) Sue’s goingback to get herteachingcredentials to keepbusy(andforthe three collegetuitions!).

Karen (Novak) Love is "doingwell in the NewYorkANG. I finally left flying 2.5yearsago, after22 yearswith KC-135S and LC-130s. I am the 109th Mission SupportGroup Commander at StrattonANGB and getting the chance to take care ofsome outstandingfolks. Between inspections and deployments, life is still busy to say the least. Bill is still the Episcopal priest at St Mary’s in Lake Luzerne. We are enjoying our two great kids. We even had a log cabin built in theAdirondacks for that long-forecasted retirement.”

Debbie (Wilcock) and Dave Ziebart says, “We’re prettyboringpeople here.” She flies mostlysame-night out-and-backtrips forFedExand thatworkswell withDave’sinternational Deltatrips andthethreekids’ schedules. Dave’scoachingNathan’s JVhigh school lacrosse team—and they’re all hoping son won’t getfather’s bad knees/hips. Besides tennis together, D&D are “usuallypassing like two ships in the day.” Deb’s hoping to retire early(yesterday) to see more ofthe family, but that’sbased on Dave’sjob.

Matt Neuenswanderupdated us as we were coordinating some reunion stuff. It looks like he’ll be leavingMON-gum-ree, AL for the Sr Col position atArmy StaffCollege, Ft. Leavenworth (althoughhe was recentlysent backto the Sandbox). “It will probablybe mylastAF position.

BobWilson “became anothermemberofthe Class of’80 thatfellvictim to the airline industrythisyear. I was furloughed fromAmerican in March afterbeing with them for three and a halfyears. I was veryfortunate to get an engineering jobworkingJoint Strike Fighterflight test planningwith Lockheed Martin in FortWorth. I was alreadyin the Dallas/Ft.Worth area so I did not have to move. This is myfirst deskjob in almost24 years [including20AFyears], Familynews includes a son (Brandon) who started as a freshman at the UniversityofTexas in Austin and my wife (Beth) who went back to work part time asa speech therapistwhen the furlough lookedimminent. She made a trip toVietnam this year to teach at a University in Hanoi through our church and my daughter (Rebecca, high schooljunior) went toVietnam on a different trip to workwith an orphanage. Animportant note, I am BobWilsonwho graduated from CS-15. We hadthree BobWilsons in our class. I am not Bob-the-doctor or Bob that went into another service.

PhilRuhlman is “backin thesaddleflyingF-16s after atwoyearstint as PACAF/ ADO at Hickam AFB, Hawaii. Tough duty but someone has to do it.” He’s “living the dream as a wing commander” (20FW at Shaw).

DianeJuhas is “working atRaytheon,IntegratedDefenseSystems (IDS) Headquarters inTewksbury, MA. I started here lastJune and am reallyenjoying it. I’m actuallyworking on a Navyproject but don’t hold that against me, I’m sure I’ll find myway to theAir Force side ofthings in time.

Keith Maresca is teachingin theWarfightingDepartment at theAirWarCollege. “Got here in Sept after having commanded at 3 ASOG and the 484AEW. The family now totals seven children, two dogs, and a cat. Mywife, Jan, hasher hands full.”

Big Blue?. As a way to enticeyou to go to our class web page (thanks, again, to BudUyeda) and because I’m about to go over myword limit, please go there to check-outthelatestAF promotions andassignments ofour classmates—’80 did verywell! God bless. 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 ’81ers! Summer is slippingawayand football season iswithin sight! It was sad and shocking to lose Coach Mooney so suddenlythis pastSpring, but

it appeared to be all about the money. The players and a lot ofgrads are very excited to pickupJeffBzdelik (former Denver Nuggetscoach). I’m also hearing the growing interest in next year’s 25th reunion from all ofyou.

AmyMarkert and Silvii (Kiisk) Steigerwaldgottogetherwhile Bob was out with the boys on a BoyScout campout. Amy says Silvii travels quite a bitwith HewlettPackard and was offto India. Amytravels a bittoo andhadbeen in Las Vegas and San Diego. [Iwould preferAmy’slocations, personally.] Gene Stitt emailed that he had talked to Perry Lamont. Perryis a Delta 767 Captain in L.A. Gene’s pilot base at Dallas was closing, so he was consideringmoving back to good old Colorado. John Ustick emailed me from Idaho. (I was surprisedtheyhadcomputers up there.. .justkidding.) Johnlives in Meridian just outside ofBoise and said Larry Connell lives there also. John flies for SouthwestandLarryworks as a simulator contractor at Mt Home. Johnkeeps in touchwith Rob Topp and Bill Gonzalezwho also flyforSouthwest andthey both live in the Phoenix area.

JeffBraley retired in Mayand moved back to Colorado Springs to be near their son Andrew at USAPA. He and Paula want to be in the stands to watch Andrew’s senior season as anAF Falcon linebacker. Jeffand Paula left two in Georgia: one atValdosta State and one working after graduating Suma Cum Laude fromAuburn. Theirother two came with them to Colorado. Janice (Gunnoe) Hughes andherhusband, Don, returned from a monthlongtrip to Australia and NewZealand. Theysettled in San Antonio where Janice went back on active duty to command theAF NewsAgency for a year. She hinted at returningto Colorado in the future. I toldherthatI tookmywife to Omaha for a trip (“isn’t that the same as Australia/NewZealand?”), but she replied that I wasn’t cutting it. “Getwith it, man” to quoteJanice.

Rob Bonn is stillinConnecticut flyingforFedEx. Rob sees Dee (Hombostel) Jagstadt, Alex Baggett, GregKnight, andA1 Koshak in his travels. Rob and Sue spent some time in Bermuda on vacation this yearwith their sons Kyle (15) andMatt (13). Bill Kass was at USAFAfortheAdmissions OfficerAdvisory panel andwillbebackout in the Fall. [Give me call!] Sean Bishop got an Aerial Achievement Medal for flying CRAF missions duringOperation Iraqi Freedom. [Not bad for a Deltapilot!] Sean and Carlee’82 are verybusywith their two teen daughters.

From overseas, Bob Britt sent me a bigupdate. Actually, Bob is now living in Ohio andworking as an F-16 FTU simulator instructor for the Guard unit in Springfield, Ohio. Bob andAlice’syoungest, Andrew, is starting atWright State University. Their oldest daughter, Emily, graduated from CaseWestern Reserve andwill be married this Fall. Their other daughter, Laura, will look out forAndrew as she starts herjunioryear atWright State. LarryChing said he and the family were apartmentshopping in HongKong. Larrysaid they kept theirbeautiful place inAlaska and get back there everymonth.

Rick Burrus sent me a very nice update on Seagram’s Seven ’81 ers which shows that some squadrons are alreadypreparingfor our big25th next Fall by reconnecting. Rick is flying 767s with American Airlines. Brooks Bash is a BGen atTravis AFB, CA; JeffBenoist is a Commander in the Coast Guard in Texas; Rayand Leona (Flores) Cannon are in Florida; Marvin Carroll is in the St Louis area; Larry Connell (mentioned earlier) flies for FedEx and lives in Boise; SteveFitzgerald is an engineer/executiveforBellSouthinAtlanta; Roger Foleyis at RandolphAFB in SanAntonio;TerryFoleyflies for FedEx and lives in San Antonio (how didboth 81 ’Foleys [not related] end up in the same town?); Jamie Gambrell flies 777s forAmerican and lives in the Chicago area; DougGierflies 767s out ofCincinnati (married to supermom Julie (Grimmig) Gier; John Griffin is an MD-88 captain for DeltalivinginUtah; Kevin Hamler is a publishingexecutive the UK (Suffolk); Gabe Hoffmanworks in InformationTechnologyforNorthrup Grumman in Ohio; BarryJohnson is anAmerican Airlines pilotliving in Florida; Buck Lee is a Delta pilot in southTexas; GaryMaupin flies 777s forUnited and is a Colonel in theANGinVirginia; Mike Reagan flies forSouthwest andlives in Colorado; Jim SchwindtfliesforFedEx and also lives in Colorado; J.D. Seal is a FedExpilot in Tennessee; and Kelly Timmons is a Colonel in theANG in SanAntonio. Whew! A special thanks to Jim Schwindt’swife,Tanya (Michaux) Schwindt ’83 forputtingthis together.

From the front: Bryan Funke emailed that he and Bob Medell are at Balad

MikeKeltz, SteveBrunhaver,BryanFunke, Sean Murphy, andGraceBlevinsHolman.

Condi and Gene O’Nale

AB. Bob is in charge ofa critical care aerovac team to ensure the most critically wounded soldiers get to Landstuhl Regional Med Center. [RandyWorrall saw Bob on ABC News being interviewed during a medevac mission from Iraq to Germany] SeanMurphy sent some goodpictures of’8lers hanging out. Gene O’Nale (normally a mild mannered 11 AF DO at ElmendorfAFB AK) is on rotation in the Office ofDefense Representative Pakistan. Gene ran into John Eunice working on a Pakistani airfield project. Greg Biscone emailed that he’s left lovely MinotAFB for Langley.

The Colorado (PetersonAFB) gang meets for lunch fairlyregularly. Laurie Cross, Marty France (finally honored us with his presence), Jan Kolm, Matt Althouse, Marv Fisher, Jon Wicklund, and yours truly met for a fancylunch (burgers) at the PAFB golfcourse. I seeVance Gilstrapregularly at missile defense meetings, buthaven’t gottenhim to make a lunchyet. Mike Kadlubowski is at PetersonAFB now, too.

Mike Scliilz took a breakfromlayingrockaround hishouse to call me. He asked about our reunion and we caughtup on our kids, discussed classmates, andlife in general. Mike and I flewtogether at OffuttAFB in our younger days.

Congratulations to SammyAngelella! I sawhis name on the recent Brigadier General list.

Correction: I incorrecdysaidGregTovrea was anA-10 simulator instructor at SpangdahlemAB, Germany... Greg’s an F-16 sim instructor. SorryGreg, from your old squadron-mate! [.. .justchecking to see ifyou are reading...]

I also received lots ofemails on theARC/AOG governance battle/election. Elections are over and 1 hopewe’ll heal and focus our energies on supporting our beloved institution. Also, our reunion is just around the corner in 2006. Manyhave alreadystarted askingaboutthe date, but it has notbeen set. Wewill probably start meetingwith theAOGwhen this article comes out. Thefootball schedule will not be released until late Feb 2006. We knowthat Notre Dame and Navywill be home games thatyear. RandyWorrall runs into lots of’81 ers in the pilotlounge and they are allveryanxious to hearanyreunion details. Let Randy and I knowyourthoughts and ideas!

Continued thankyous for all the info, pictures, kindwords, phonecalls, and emails!! I’m looking forward to seeing all ofyou next Fall!

Jim Ratti

161 E. 2400 S. Clearfield, UT 84015-1919

(801) 497-0989/DSN: 586-3352

rattijm@mindspring.com

http://usafa82.org

GreetingsRedtags!

Spring ishere in northern Utahandit’swonderful! We gotlots ofsnow in the mountains thiswinterand mayfinallybe out ofour six-or-soyears ofdrought. Nowwe’re allhopingtheheaviest snowpackinyears melts slowlyand doesn’t cause floods! Feast or famine, I suppose. Things are a bit light in the news department this time as I guessfolks are beginning thecmsh ofsummer moves, etc. But I do have several updates foryou nonetheless.

By far the big news is that ‘Zan Vautrinot is going to be ’82’s first Brigadier General! Her selection forpromotion was announced on April 5th alongwith a whole bunch offolksfromthe class of'80. Heartiest congratulations to allthe selectees.

First out ofthe e-mailbagthis quarteris BryanBranby. He’s been prop-jettingall over the AOR as a C-130 nav for the PAAir National Guard out ofPittsburgh, and sent this picture ofhimselfand CathyClothier in front ofthe CombinedAir Ops Center atA1 Udeid, Qatar. Cathy was taking a four-month “vacation” fromherWingCommanderduties at McConnell to serve as the Deputy “DIRMOBFOR”. For those ofyouwho’ve misplacedyour secret decoderring, that’s Deputy “Director ofMobilityForces.” Bryan has been deployed to the AOR three times now, and he’s seen a lotofinterestingplaces. Earlierthis year

CathyandBryan at the CAOC.

he spent some time on the horn ofAfrica, andhe andhis crew were writtenup in an articleforAirForceNews. Theirmission was to delivermail and supplies to a number ofratherprimitive locations such as Djibouti andthe Seychelles, a string ofislands in the Indian Ocean. Butjust to prove it’s not allwork, here’s a shot ofBryan andhis flightengineer (ChrisAlbrecht) enjoying a spectacular sunset in the Seychelles.

“Wegetpaid to do this!”

Pete Livingston a newsyupdate from the D.C. area where he’s working for theAirForce Studies &AnalysesAgency in Rosslyn,VA. He’s enjoyinghisjob as a division chieffor manpower & deployabilitystudies, and is considering retiring next summer (2006) whenhisyoungest son graduatesfromhighschool. Pete ran two marathonslastyear, Cincinnati (3:17) and Maryland (3:19) and qualified for Boston. He finished Boston in 3:59 not his best showing he says, but reasonable considering he broke his wrist snowboardingafterChristmas and onlyhad two months to train while still recovering! Pete ran into his CS-40 roommate Jeff (JB) Smith. JB is working in SAF/AQ on Internationalprogramsandis awaiting news ofan assignment. Pete also heard from Keith Zuegel, who just returned from SeniorService School inAustraliaand is now on theJoint Staff.

On the familyside, Pete’s oldest son Sean graduated from high school in Ohio and now attends Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Universityin DaytonaBeach, FL. Hisyoungest son is finishing hisjunioryear in high school. Pete’swife, Sandra, is considering expandinghersuccessfulhome-based rubberstampingbusiness into a storefrontwhen/ifthey settle down in the Dayton area next year.

I’vegleaned a bitofintelfromseveralSeniorOfficerAnnouncements over the pastfewmonths. Here are some snapshots ofwhat our colonels are up to. Dan Morin will move fromPetersonAFB toWright-Pat to be the DeputyDirectorof Propulsion at theAF Research Lab. Ron Warner will move literally across the street fromhisjob as ChiefofDistributedMission Operationsin theTrainingSysterns ProductGroup to bethenextcommanderoftheSpecialOperationsSystems Group atWright-Pat. Ed Stanhousewillleavethe Pentagon andSAF/AQ to take over the C-17 SystemsGroup from BG-select Janet (Libby) Wolfenbarger, ’80. StevePluntzewillleavehisUSAFAtour as theheadoftheAeroDept, and move to London to leadtheEuropeanOfficeofAerospaceResearch&Development. “Fast Eddie” Cabrerawill be taking over the 46th OpsGroup at Eglin, and GaryPlumb willbe theViceWingCommanderofthe46th TestWingthere.

And a bit closer to home (for me anyway!) is the news that I’llbe taking over as theA-10 SystemProgramManager (SPM) in lateJune. That means Freddie Peralta and I will beworkingtogetherprettyclosely. Freddie’s an AF civilian here at HillAFB and will be myseniorprogram manager. I’mlookingforward to the challenges ofbeing an SPM, but I’m sure glad I’ve gotgood, experienced folks like Freddie working for me!

Withthat, I’ve exhausted all the news I have forthis time around. I hope this finds all ofyouwell andhappy, and thatyou get to enjoyyour summer, wherever you are.

Until next time, keep doinggood work and above all, be safe. Ratman

Sabre Society Donors

13

Sabre Society Donors

Jon Duresky

207 Knob Hill Drive

Warner Robins, GA 31088

Home: 478-953-3141

DSN: 497-4440

DureskyJB@aol.com

Mulligan! I need a Mulliganforthis column! And I don’t even playgolf. So let me explain, and give my excuse up front for having nada to refer to as I prepare myyearly tome.

There I was, comfortable on myGeorgiaplantation (weedsgrowing in my drivewaycracks are mycashcrop),watchingthemonth ofJanuary come to an end, whenmyUncle, who I call “Sam, invited me, once again, to accompany him on an “all-expensespaid” vacation to a sunnyand sandylocale. Good ol’ Uncle Sam even threw in a special bonus: we were leaving in 36 hours and wouldn’treturn for over 100 days! Boy, was I excited! (Kiddingaside, I reallywas; I stillhave that“doyourdutywhen called” thingfirmlybrandedinto mybrain.) So Brendaand I scurried aboutthehouse andWal-Mart, she doing most ofmy packing, because after manyofthese deployments, I still am jello-for-brains when I am gettingreadyto go. Brendaand I said our soggygood-byes, and 19 hours and three air-refuelingslater, I was at myvacation resort. Soon I was unpacking, and to myhorror, the one thing I was responsible to bring, I had forgotten! Thatcrucialitem —myfolderwith myinfo for myyearlyClass News article. Therefore, I will have to rely on my prodigious memory of events ofthelastyear as I once againattemptto entertainand informyouwithanecdotesabouttheadventures ofour Classmates, in this 22nd year since we said “I do” to our Uncle on thatsunnymorninginFalcon Stadium, 1983.

Darryl Robersonratedsixcolumn-inches in the Starsand Striped. As I was readingthe S & S alongwhileback, I sawourhero’s name as the flightleadofa21-ship formation ofF-15Es, 400knots, 1000 feetAGL (nosebleed altitude for an ex-Here driverlike me, buthe’s doinghis best), leading a flyover forthe funeralprocession forRonaldReagan atArlington. Darryl even got to go vertical as themissing man. Awesomeflying! DarrylhasbeenanO-6forawhile now, probablyknocking on the door ofthe next rank, I’dwager.

Pat Frost gets an Honorable Mention for IronicAward. I ran into him last summer while on my last deployment, but Pat had to one-up me. His allexpenses paid vacation was for a full year as ChiefofSafety, and he volunteered! “Frost in the desert,” for thosewho missed mypun. I inquired ofPat ifhe had lost his mind. No, was the answer, because he had a guaranteed follow-on andhe was building a house at his follow-on base. So we looked at blueprints andpictures ofhouse and kids, talked aboutold times, andwhiled away some deployed hours.

Bob Ulichwins die HouseguestoftheYearAwardbydefault because he was the only one who visited me. He lives north ofHot-lanta, anddrove down to Robins for a USAFAALO conference. He is now a man ofresponsibility, shapingthe lives ofthe next generation ofAF leaders. Same old Bob though. His car leakedoil on mydrivewayandwhenI rodeinthepassenger’sseat, itleaked some unidentified goo on myshoe. On the positiveside, he did notlosehis car keys in myhouse.

Vince and Mavis (Thorpe) Compagno are moving on up, building a brand new palace south ofHot-lanta. She is retired and enjoying the full-timeMom business;Vince is still flyingfor Delta. Theypromised a bighouse-warming partybut no word on the "when.” Word is, a fewclassmateslive close to them, so ifthat isyou, make them come through on the party, andwe’ll all spill Red Bull and Jaeger on their carpet.

I need to offer a few congratulations here. For us active duty “on time to rank” folks, February was a big month. We found out either: 1. we are still a “valuable member oftheAF team;” or 2. “Congratulations! You have been promoted to Colonel!”

Afewofus were offered Option#2 and since I don’t want to make a comprehensive listand then exclude someone and make an enemy, I’lljustthrow out a generic “Congrats!” while recognizing Chris Moulton (because he emails me withhumorous stories abouthis adventures on theAMC staffat ScottAFB andhealsoletmyson and a collegebuddycrash athishousewhentheyskipped three days ofclass and drove cross country to see aWorld Series game in St. Louis (ah, the real collegelife),Tammy Rank (because we had Chemistry 101 together, on M-l, way backwhen), and two Davids, Timm and Uzzell (because they are biggerthan me and mightpound me while telling me to getmy 0-5 chin in, and because theydo not get their names in myarticles too often). Greatjob, all ofyou promotees!

From the depths ofmymemory the general consensus from airline pilot classmates is that theyall still havejobs, but for most at a lower standard of living. Mostofus thathavekids are intowatching a plethoraofsportingevents and severelyafflictedwith that dreaded ailmentwhich strikes parents ofathletes, "Stadium Butt.” (Credit for naming the ailment goes to Jeffand Ellen (Nelson, ’84) Fiebig, who spentmanyhourswatching a buddingfootball star

son and championgymnast daughter,provingthat the apple does not fallfar from the tree.)

Before I close, I’ll recognize Eli Powellwith the triple honor ofthe longest, latest (arrived inJanuary!), and most entertainingholidayletter. When/ifI get “writerburnout” andneed to delegatefor a fewyears myslotin the scribe class news rotation, Elihas thejob. He is still the greatestAF doctor, stationedin San Antonio and doing too much paperwork and too little surgery, much to his chagrin.

And that, myfriends is a wrap. Gear down, check six, keepback-up and offsite files, keep that sense ofhumor, andwatch a sunrise again forthe first time. Jon Duresky

Mike Jensen

12035 Milam Road

Colorado Springs, CO 80908 (800) G0-AFA-G0

michaeljensen@remax.net

http://www.usafa84.com

Mypleas forhelp were answered. Thanks. I had a terrific response from our class and ifyou sent an update/picture and it is not in this issue, I will get it in the next one.

’84—Where are theynow? CaptainTim Shields (that is all I ever made,with no hope ofadvancement!—his words, we’re still proud!) checks in: after 11 years in inactive Reserve, Tim finallygot involved as an admissions liaison officer. Serves with Bryan Holmes (who is now a LTC); more on Hawaiian Bryan later. Tim is still flying747 copilot for UnitedAirlines, married 18 years, two kids Lindy (16) andTom (14) Lives in Huntington Beach, CAwhich is home forboth Tim and hiswife, Jolene. Surfs withwife and kids everychance he gets. Nextup is Steve Sheprowho was kidnapped out ofan A-10 cockpit to command an “ASOS” (notknowingwhatthat was at first), a squadron of“battlefield airmen”, i.e., ALOs and JTACsworkingwith theArmyand Special Forces. He received a quick education! Theyended up deploying to both Operations IraqiFreedom I and II doinglots ofwork. Steve finallyleft his bachelorways to get married last year; Helen was with him at the reunion. He takes a group command at Pope this July. Jerry Stanton lives in Connecticut with wife, Claudia, and two kids, Alexandraand Noah. He is a patent attorneywith the firm Harringtonand Smith. Heis starting a newbusinesswithin a fewmonths, with his wife.

AndyKlein and I have gone through a lot together. He was greathelp to me when I got the flyingbug now looking back on it what the heck were we thinking? AndyisflyingatVancewherehe sees Pete EdgarandRalphPhillips in the ’38 squadron.Andyand his wife, Jackie, have three lovelygirls.

Todd and BrendaTamura

Todd Tamura checks in, and he wants $20 forhis update.Well, ifI amortize it out that is only 1 /3 ofa cent per daysince graduation for his updates! Not a bad investment, but too much perword!

John andJamieTomick

His roommate at the Zoo, JohnTomick, retiredlast summer. He lives happilywith his lovelywife, Jamie, and their daughtersBrittany and Megan. John remained at the Pentagontaking some plum suitjob in OSD. He’s a PhD in Statistics andthat’s somethingyouwould never tell anyone unless it was true. Todd marriedway over his head and has an awesome wife, Brenda, and two boys with great promise, Trent andTy. Still enjoying the Air Force, theyjust moved to the Oklahoma City area whereTodd leads a small band offreedom fightersdoinginternational flightinspection alongside the FAA.

The photos are ofa recentTomick-Tamuravacationin the BritishIsles, without kids, which he highlyrecommends to anyclassmates that can make that happen.

Barb (Lalli) Brennan ran into CindyOaks in theDelta employeeparkinglot in Boston. Cindycould not attend the reunion because she was inthe process ofmovingherfamilyto NewHampshire. Herhusbandworks for Delta and she was dropping him offwhen she noticed Barb’s NewHampshire veteran license plate “AFA84”. (GEEK ALERT!) Cindytracked Barb down likeJoeArata lookingfor that extra Mitchell Mountain, and theywere able to catch up on ‘ole times!

6

lastyeardoinghome improvements; theydo alltheworkthemselves, includingbuildingthe cabinets. In theAspen area, theygo ice climbing. The picture is ofher hanging on for dearlife.

Sabre Society Donors

Brian “Hooter” Simpson is completing his two-year tour as the412th OperationsGroup Commander at EdwardsAFB this summer andhasbeenselected to be the DeputyDirector for the Rapid Capabilities Office in D.C. Their oldest son, Christopher, receivedhis appointment to USAFAfor the Class of2009, buthe is offto Tulane instead.

Bill Beninati has written in! The onlygrad more elusive than DJ, is still in, with two years to go on paying offhis obligation and fouryears to retirement. Not adequatelytrained at USAFA, he endured an additional 11 years offormal trainingpost-USAFA. He is a pulmonary/criticalcare/sleep disorders physicianwhoseAF career has been verymedical center based -15-17 yearswith one at Air Staffand one as a squadron commander. His current job is 15th Aeromedical-Dental Squadron Commander, and additional-dutydeputy group commander at the Hickam (rough!) clinicwhich is as farfrom a medical center as you can get. He was selectedfor0-6 andiswaitingto pin on nextyear.

Bill’s wife, Debbie, is from C Springs and is a music/piano teacher currently focusedlike a laser on being mom. Theyhave threekids:Anna 11, Mary8, and Gabriel 3. LovingHawaii, theylike to skydive, flygliders, and scuba/snorkel

RobertCarriedo is backin Colorado Springsfor a second tourteachingin the HistoryDepartment. (I hope you get it right this time!) He has been sent on hardship tours to the UniversityofFlorida to get a master’s in LatinAmerican history, and the UniversityofNewMexico to gethis doctorate in LatinAmerican history. Healso spenttwo and a halfyears atthe U.S. embassyin Lima, Peru helpingthe PeruvianAirForce fightthedrugwar(supplyingtrainingandequipment). A lucky man, still married to his beautifulwife,Valerie, whomhe married in 1985, and they and their fourkids, AnaAlicia (16), Maria Cristina (13), Lorenzo (11) and Veronica (10), are once again enjoying being back. Bob reports to all interested partiesthey’re still repairingthe Terrazo.

Now the scoop on “Hawaiian Bryan” (akaBryan Holmes) - he got married this spring to a wonderful lady named Janice. They live in “the OC” (that’s OrangeCountyforyouWingStaffers) and is finishinghis 12thadmissions cycle as an ALO. Still flying 757s and 767s forAA out ofLAX... gruelingtrans-pacific flights to Hawaii are the norm!

Scott Gounaud is also a pilotforAA and is still serving as the Chairman ofthe APA NegotiatingCommittee full-time (athanklessjob, so thanks!). He wishes he were flying more (much easierto dealwith theTSAthanboth the pilots and management), but the good news is he is home everynight and don’thave to dealwith hotel mattresses!

Karen Coxand herhusbandretired last Mayand moved to Carbondale, CO. It’shalfwaybetweenGlenwoodSpringsandAspen. Herhusband,Wayne, works at theAspenairport. Theybought a nicehouse on five acres andhave spentthe

Alec Robinsonjust finished 14 months as MilitaryAssistant to the Under Secretary oftheAir Force and Director, National Reconnaissance Office, the last two ofwhich he was Acting Secretary. He is now working in the Space Radarprogram strivingto get a space-basedradarsurveillancesystemgoingto provide an agile and responsive system to our warfighters. He has run into a fewoutstandingpeople - all ’84 grads! Russ “BabyHuey” Barker is in L.A. as a contractorsupportingthe program. Steve Seroka is at thePentagon also. He ran into him at their kids’ schoolwhere Bob Filer, Dave Webb andhe went to high school. Doug Fuller is in the D.C. area, now a contractor supporting OSD afterretiringfromBarksdaleAFB. Don Halpin is inXO;Amie Bunchis now at Eglin after a stintinAF/XPwhere we workedtogether. Alec sees Mike Babauta once in a while but is not sure what he’s doingthese days. WhenAlecshowed up in his radar office, his voice mail answered “Kevin Lang”...’’seems he had the deskI now occupy, butwe haven’tbeenable to find outwherehe’s gone off to. A1 Guevara is in the area, doingsomething hush-hush. Eric Dale retired and is now gettingthe bigbucks as a contractor in the D.C. area. ChipThompson is at NationalWar College andhiswife, KellyAnn, is pulling Reserve duty in SAF/PA. RoryMaynard retired and is nowworking for Lockheed Martin in the congressionalrelations area. Bill Eichenbergerretired out ofthePentagon lastyear. Gordie Neffretired and is now living in North Carolina. JeffAbbott is still in LosAngeles, now married with a new daughter. That is all I can fit in this issue. I betterhave thatwebsite up, andyouwill be able to see more! Great updateAlec. Thanks again for allyou do-Jens.

Quintel Williams

8980 Peabody Court

Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 282-4333 USAFA1985@aol.com

Hi!

Since the last Checkpoints our 20th reunion plans have been finalized. By now, you all should have received a letterin the mail about the reunion. But in case you’ve lostthe letter, our class webmasterRayHarris has posted all of the reunion details on our class web site: http://www.softwrsolutions.com/ usafa85. As a briefsummary, our reunion will begin with registration on Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 14th at the Wyndham hotel. Our reunion weekend football game is againstWyoming on Saturday. Thanks again to JoyceWashington, “the ringleader,” and to the rest ofour class volunteers and theAOG stafffor all oftheirhardworkto make this an exciting and fun event.

Alsosincethelast Checkpointsdeadline, I received a Christmas letterfromLisa (Drennan) Mazur. lisahad senttheletter to our old address in Virginia and it was forwarded to my mother-in-law’s address in Florida, and then it eventuallymade itswayto our newaddresshere in Colorado. It’s a beautifulletterwithfull-colorMazurfamily pictures scanned around the borderofthe firstpage and more pictures fill up a secondpage. Lisacontinues to work as a Civil ServiceDeputyforIntelligence at HQAFMC andherhusband, Chris,pulledReserve dutyatWright-PattersonAFB duringmostoftheyearin2004. But ChrisstartedworkingforModemTechnologies as a program managerfortheAC-130Ugunshiplastfall. Lisawent on a “12th year” mother-daughtertrip to Spainwith Catherine over Thanksgiving.

I received an Easter newsletter from Kevin andWendy (Link) Routhier. In August,Wendy’s parents hosted a family reunion and they also closed on a “handymanspecial” investmenthome thatKevin’s company (an armyofone)

TheRouthiers:Kevin, Wendy, Caleb (15 V2),Josiah (almost14), Jordan (12 V2), Luke (11), Noah (71!2), Jonathan (5 V2), David (4) andDaniel (1/2).

Sabre Society Donors

is fixingup. The Routhierkids spent a lot oftime watching old reruns of“Eight Is Enough” to see how that familymanaged. Ofcourse, with a new baby to showoff, the Routhiers made a road trip back to New England in September (reportedly, someone held Daniel the entire time). Their Easter newsletter had lots ofgreat digitalpictures in it so I e-mailed Kevin and asked for a nice Routhierfamilypicturethat I could use in Checkpoints. Kevin sent thepicture. In March I attended a retirement ceremony at the PetersonAFB for Lt ColJ.E “Bear” Scott. It was a verynice ceremonywith his largemilitaryfamilywell represented. I saw J.P’s best friendA.J. and hiswife, Teresa (Bladd) Scott, with theirfive handsome little boys at the retirement ceremony. A.J. saidheworks at USAFAin the HonorDepartment.

On a sad note, Karolen Fahrni passed awaysince the last Checkpoints. We will miss her dearly; I know I will. She was reallyspecial. Keep her family in your thoughts and prayers. Take care. Quintel

Gary Burg

3511 Hollyberry Circle Anchorage, AK 99507 (907) 677-6050

lce492FS@yahoo.com

Well I never thought I wouldsaythis butit’s great to bebackin Korea. Ijustgot back to finish myone-yeartourhere afterspendingDec 2004 - Apr2005 in Iraq with theArmy. As it ended up I was the rankingAir Force officerin all of 1 and 2 Marine Division as I served as the 2 ID BrigadeALO supportingOperation Iraqi Freedom. That deployment gave me the greatest appreciation for our Armybrethren and extremelyglad that I am in theAir Force.

GaryBurgin the TOC at CampRamadi, Iraq.

Well let me get right to the updates that our classmates have sent myway. During the time I was in Iraq I kept contact withAngel Gonzalez, and Igor Beaufils. I want to thankboth ofthem for there support ofour cause over in Iraq and their words ofencouragement—itreallyhelped.

Next I received an update from good old dependable EdYong. Ed wrote: “Here are some items forthe next Checkpointsarticle:You can use yourpoetic license to fit them into your next article. There are a host ofUSAFA grads at Offuttwith at least three 1986 grads (LtCol Lou Nolan, Lt ColRickeyRodgers, andEdYong) I’m sure there are more 1986 graduates.Yes, I am the one not on active duty.Anyone in 1986 here can lookup Lou or me to get info on the Heardand-LemayGraduate Chapter. Lt Col Lou Nolan istheVice President forthe Heartland-LemayGraduate Chapterin the Nebraska/Iowa area here at Offutt.Other officers are Maj Thomas Goulter (Presidentand Class of’90), Maj Steve Lindemuth (secretary and Class of’94), MrTAD Draper (treasurer and Class of’68), Mark and Lorrie Novak (liaisons and Class of’84), EdYong (also a liaison and Class of’86). The Heartland-Lemaywebsite can also be accessed via the mainAOGsitejustlike our 1986 class site. Ifanyonein 1986 (anygrad forthatmatter) is comingTDYto Offutt, the 4thTuesdayofthe month is a Heartland-Lemaylunchsocial. Location TBD as thetime gets closer and also posted inthe Heartland-Lemaywebsite as well as the OffuttStratWeb. We’re trying to expand the ‘fun’ andplanning on crashingin on theUSNAgrad lunch social (tomorrow, Tuesday, 12Apr05, at the Offutt Club). Maybe Lou or Rickey can add some more to you next article.

Sabre Society Donors

RickeyRodgersdropped an email to Bob Colellaandattachedit to Ed’s email. Hewrote, “Hi Cactus, Russ Mathers has probablyalreadytold you that I will be back at KBAD for my third tour there. I wasn’t smart enough to keep my house either ofthe other two times so I thinkthat Iwill tryforbase housingthis time. This assignmentputs me in 8AF where we alreadyhave a few ’86 grads (Dave Ingerson is the first one that comes to mind) as well as the ones there in theWing. Should be a good time. Skull”

The next email that was forwarded to me from Bob came fromWin Idle.Win wrote, “Hi Bob! Nice article in the last Checkpoints'.Katydid an OUTSTANDINGjob!Attached is a shotofthe ’86ers attendingNationalWar College and the Industrial College oftheArmed Forces.

“In the front row from left are Win Idle, JenniferGraham, Rich Clark, Mike Panarisi, and RogerVincent. Back row: MaryMatusiewicz, Mike LoGrande, JayDucharme, and Bill Thomas. Here’swhere we’re headed after our 8 June graduation: Rich (Harpo) Clark, Vice Wing Commander of the 12th FTW, RandolphAFB;JayDucharme, EUCOM J8, Division Chief. JenniferGraham, MilitaryAssistant to the Principle Under SecretaryofDefense for Policy;Win Idle, OSD Networks and Information Integration, MILSATCOM; Mike LoGrande, PentagonDeputyDirector ofReserve Integration office (AF/REI) workingCongressional (AuthorizationandAppropriations) issues fortheAF Reserve.Also added a new addition to the family(Matthew) bom in March 05. MaryMatusiewicz, JointStaff/J5 as a Space andMissile Defense Planner; Mike (Grease) Panarisi, EUCOM J-5, Stuttgart, GEworking strategydevelopment; Bill (Sluggo) Thomas, Pentagon J-3, Deputy Director for Regional Operations, JointOperations Division / PACOM Operations Officer; RogerVincent, J8 SAPCO.” Take care andTHANKS for keeping us all informed!

Duringmyredeploymentto KoreaI stopped on the EastCoastand ran intoJay Humelbaugh.Jayjustgot to LangleyAFB and isworking at myold squadron, TheACCTRSS. Jayjustbought a house in Smithfieldandwillbesettlingin until his retirement. Jaybought a nice housewith river access so ifyou’re ever in the Smithfield,VA area and see a kayak on theJames River, it is probablyJay—that or check the golf course. Speaking ofgolf, Jay and I did get a round in even though our time was limitedandfortherecord, I gotsoundlybeatbySpaulding. Well, thatis all I have this time around. Ihopeyou all have a great summer. I’ll bePCSinginAugust to myFINALassignment at ElmendorfAFB,AK. I’mbeing assigned to the 611 AOS so ifanyofyou are passingthrough Elmendorfafter Augustlook me up in the phone book. Bob will bewritingthe next column so please send him all your inputs or send them to me and I’ll forward.

Sharon (Hullinger) Giletti

500 Lunalilo Home Road, 11J

Honolulu, HI 96825

Phone and Fax: (808) 542-8811

E-mail: sharongiletti@aol.com or sharon.giletti@pacom.mil

Aloha everyone! I have a couple ofgoodupdates foryou from some folks that I haven’t heard from in a while. The guilt-trip method ofdrawing out emails from you all is slowlyworking.

Bruce McClintocksent in an update: “Ijustcompleted an ORIwiththe 25FS at Osan and I stumbled across an old Checkpoints and decided to drop you a note. Here’s thelatest scoop on the McClintockclan: Tammyand I have been at Osan sinceJanuary2003. Our‘remote’ has evolved into our secondlongest assignmentin theAir Force. When we leave in December we will have spent threeyears inKorea! Ithas been a greatassignmentfor our girls: Brittany(14), Tori (10), andAlexa (4). We’ve traveled all aroundAsia. After mystint in D.C. I came andworked forTom “Big” Deale as the 25FS DO. Tom was a greatCC and set me up for success whenheleftforICAF last summer (’04). Command has proven to be all thatyou hearabout—atremendous blessingand challenge all at the same time. In Decemberwe’ll departforNATO DefenseCollegein Rome. I’malwayswillingto makesacrificesforthe team and someone had to take theslot inRome. No tellingwhere we’llbesixmonthsafterthatbutI’lltryto letyouknow—Sheriff. It must be tough to have to go to school in Rome!

I was happilysurprisedbyan emailfromKarinNagel—there’s a firstforeverything. She sentinherfirstupdate ever since graduation! Thanks, Karin. Pleasedon’twait 18 moreyears! BTWIlostthegreatphotoofyouall soyou have to writeagain anywayso I can putitin next quarter’supdate. Karin wrote:

“After almost 18 years (has it reallybeen that long!) I’mwriting myfirst update for Checkpoints. Suppose that’s because it’s the first time in a longtime I saw both Mary (Ponko) Aldrian andJami (VanDeGrift) Rotello in the same12 month period plussympathyforyou, ofcourse, for not havingenough inputfor a column in thelast CheckpointsI received! Myfamilyand I recently visited Mary and Joe Aldrian (both Class of’87) attheirhome in Southern California. We took the kids Maryand Joe have three—AJ (7), Kevin (4), and Emma (1)—and myhusband, Jeff, and I have two - Connor (soon to be 4) and Chloe (2). See photo.

3

9

Sabre Society Donors

“We spent a fun-filled day at SeaWorld in San Diego and tried to catch up as much as we could in the companyoffive childrenjumping,gigglingand sometimes screamingthroughout the house. We hope to return the hospitality to them in the near future ifthey take us up on our invitation to come out for a USAFAfootball game or familyskiweekend. Maryis in the Reserves at March AFB flying KC- 135’s and Joe is still flying for United. Jeffand I live south of Denver and now that the kids are a little older hope tostart makingit to some ofthefootballgamesthisyear - nowthat our son hasrecovered fromthe trauma ofan F-15 flyover at his veryfirstUSAFAgamewhenhe was fourmonths old!) I got out ofthe USAF at the 10-yearpoint—afterassignments at EglinAFB, grad school at GeorgiaTech, teaching at USAFA, and lastly, a couple years at the National Reconnaissance Office. I am now the DoD Sales Manager at Qwest Communications.

“A couple ofmyQwestco-workers are 1987 grads also—EzraVance (who is married to Kristen [Morton]) and Howard Huerta. Ezra and Kristen had their second child last fall and live south of Denver also. I participated in the Academy’s First Graduate Leadership ConferencelastJulywhere I was honored tomeet many ofthe impressive graduates I had read about or whose names I had memorized as a Doolie. It was pretty much ofa ‘Who’sWho’ of Academygraduates, and a currentinside look at cadetlifestyle,including a trip to Jack’sValleyand a lotofQ&Atime with the current USAFAleadership. I also sawJami (VanDeGrift) Rotello last summer when she was in Denvervisiting herhusband’s (Tom Rotello also class of’87) family. Theyhave four children —three daughters and one son rangingin age from 13 to 2. Jami is still in the Reserves in Ohio andTom flies for Delta.”

Thanks again for theemails and I hope to hearfrom more ofyou in the next fewmonths. I promise not to loose anymore photos! A hui hou (untillater)— Sharon.

Mark

Peters

2437 Bedford Circle Bedford, TX 76021-1823

(817) 937-9696

E-mail: pylt@comcast.net

Hi 88! Yes, this is almost becoming a “CS-29-Only” blog, but the Panthers compiled a heckofa list and they’re due some space. These inputswillprobablybe at least a yearold bythe time thisissuehitsyourmailbox. The first entry (and the last Panther input) is fromTom Brogan. It’s prettylong, but since he’s been remarkablybusy I cut him some slack:

“After UPT atWilly I got married to Kim (from the Springs) and we went to RTUs in Little Rock and KirtlandAFBs. PCSed to RAFWoodbridge to flyHC130s. Ran into Brent Caldwell a couple oftimes sincehe was up at Bentwaters, about a mile away. I got deployed for Desert Storm in Jan of’91 andwith that camesome cool flying: blacked-out formations, landings, air-refuelinghelicopters, air-dropping SEALS—all at low-level—real stick and rudder stuff. The war ended, but not the tasking for Combat Rescue, so our unit was there fortheProvide Comfort Operation. I got to rotate home about everytwo-three months for a couple weeks offfor the remainder ofmy tour.

“I made a big decision to get out ofthistrap and found a C-21 job in Stuttgart. I loved flyingthe Lear all over Europe,Africa,Asia, and Eastern Europe. This was a hiddenjewel ofajob. No Command & Control,justtakeVIP’s out for two weeks, bring a suitcase full ofmoney to paybills; don’t callhome unless there was a problem we couldn’t fix on our own. We were the firstAmerican presence in the Rwanda deal, landingmyjet on a runwayfull ofpeople aboutfive feet away—no other choice. Apparently, EUCOM wanted to know ifit was safe to send in SpecialOps MC-130s, so he sent us. We also hadthe dubious honor of flying in a General during the “Blackhawk Down” mission in Mogadishu; took sniper fire but no hits. (Taxied REAL fast!) On a more civil

note, I was assigned toAmbassadorRichardHolbrookewhilehe was brokering peace inYugoslavia—what a neat guy.

“Sometime while I was having all that fun, Kim decided that it would be more fun to live life with some ArmySgt on base so we separated; I PCSed to AndrewsAFB, then filed for divorcewhen I got there. AtAndrews Iworked for AFFSA, the Flight StandardsAgency. It was some AF/XOO job but wewere a forward location because we had two C-21 s assigned to the unit forpilot proficiency. Myjob was ChiefofAeronauticalPublications, or FLIP Fortunately for me, this was merelythe cover assignmentfor a C-21 IP because thejob was REALLY to keep the otherpilots who were not qualified on the Lear up in the airand in the system. I worked in the office one day aweek, and myGS- 15s did the rest so I could fly out and backs forlunch andX-countries on theweekends. This was great for me, beingnewlysingle again!

“The airlines were beginning to hire so I threw myapps out and didn’t even get a nibble. I finallyfound a buddyfrom Stuttgart that got hired byDelta and convinced him that he reallyliked me and wanted to write me a letter ofrecommendation. I putmypapersin to get out. Luckwasagainonmysideaslwas one ofonly two IPs in the unit and theyNEEDED me to flyand didn’t ground me. I flewall theway to myDOS (nojob offers!) and sold backmyleave for 1 / 2 pay. I went backhome to Mom and Dad, to myold room, and at 32years old thought, “What a LOSER! I signed up forCalifornia unemploymentfortwo months. ThenDeltafinallycalled and I got hired in Nov of 1997.

“I headed out to Atlanta for school and was assigned the 727 panel out ofNYC, but senioritywas moving so fast I was able to get transferred to Atlanta before I even left! I worked the panel forthree-four months when I got a bid forthe 767 out ofAtlanta; thought I had died and gone to heaven.

That’s when I met Angie in Atlanta. She was a blind date andwhen we met it was like I knewherforyears. We datedfor several more monthswhen I realized I was justwastingtime... so I proposed. I’ve been in Bliss ever since. Got married inApril of2000 (evenyear to help me remember). The deal came with two wonderful kids ofhers, Clayton and Lauren, so we were Insta-family. I was flyingthe 767 for about fouryears until 9/11 when I was on myway to SFO and gotgrounded in Memphis.

“By the time I could reachAngie she was already an emotional wreck after seeingthe news showing767s crashing. I calmedherdown, butitwas too late. She startedbleeding (did I mention she was pregnant?) and was rushed to the hospital thatnight. I was stuck in Memphis; no planes, no rental cars, and no Greyhound bus tickets left! I gothome two days later to a wild lifestyle. Working, taking care ofthe kids, then spending time withAngie in the hospital.

“Sheendedup being on permanentbed restforthe rest ofthe pregnancy, 9/11 until 10/30. Life changedforeverwhenmyTWIN boyswereborn,William and Thomas. What a trip that is! Since then, I’ve felt absolutelycomplete, and the happiestI’ve ever been in myentirelife. I LOVEbeing a Dad, and myjob allows me to spend so much time at home; I feelveryfortunate. BillyandTommy are almosttwo now, Claytonjustgothis driver’slicense, and Laurenhitthe puberty wall at 13. Ourhouse is a madhouse, but in a verystrange wayI LOVE IT.

“Angieworks full time out ofthe house as the CFO for a group ofENT surgeons. Myjobwith Delta is stillthere, but goingthewrongway on the seniority list. I’vebeenbumped offmy767 to the 737-800 and am nowbeingbumped to the 737-200 (Yikes—Nomagenta line!). But, I DO see the bigpicture; I’m still working and have a greatjob as long as the robber-barons ofmanagement don’t drive our ship into the rocks. Only time will tell.” (You can reach Tom at: ga.brogran@comcast.net)

In other news, BullMikus is certainlydue some spacehere. I’vebeenwaiting for an opening for my fellowTexan and it looks like I finally have one. “More goodies from Abilene and Dyess AFB. Work is going well for me and Carla started training for RespiratoryTherapy. Uriah loves kindergarten! He loves paintingand playing on the computers. He and his class go to computer lab one dayperweek, and they even purchased a couple oftouch monitors for him to use. He is able to do so much with that little piece ofelectronic help! QuintenMiklos pinned on LTC a fewweeks ago, and hisshoulders are drooping from the added responsibility. He works across the hall from me. John Koss is on the line teaching and I saw him sitting behind the Ops desk, too.

“Tom Lane (who was with me in DirtyDozen) is here, laboring on theline. I thinkheroomedwith RogerGrant; it’s spookyto have so manyfrom the same class in the same unit! I ran into ParkerNorthrupwhen he came over to check out the 28thand see howwe do things. Parkeris the boss over at theBUFF FTU (11th Bomb Squadron) at Barksdale. I saw this dude in familiarpatches, and it almostdidn’t register, thenI thought, “Hey, this isn’tBarksdale!” I heard that TomHestermanis out atTestPilotschool. JeffWhartonis out there, too,working on software/hardwareupdates forthe Bone. NormWorthen was out at OKC doingFCF for B-52s. Anyone interested in a quickrecap ofDesert Storm and thelast decade and a halfofcombat in Iraq, check out the Bible, read Isaiah chapters 51 and 52. It is amazing!”

Zero space left and our editor is tough on scribes that go over so I’m done!

Visit the NEWAOGWeb Site

www.usafa.org

From leftare Kevin, Mary, Emma,AJ, Chloe, myself, and Connor.

11

Sabre Society Donors

Paul W. Tibbets, IV

854 Westover Road

Whiteman AFB, MO 65305

Home: (660) 563-3095

E-mail: p2a2@charter.net

Hafaadai fromAndersenAFB, Guam! The 325th ExpeditionaryBomb Squadron is deployed here as part ofPacific Command’s continuous bomber presence in theAsia-Pacific region, enhancingregionalsecurityand the U.S. commitment to the western Pacific. Bomberaircrafthavehad an ongoingpresence on the island sinceFebruary2004. Whileconductingthismission, we willhave the opportunityto trainwithjointand coalitionforces in the Pacific, as well as the F- 15E Strike Eagles ofthe 391 st EFS deployedwith us. On with the news!

Our first update comes fromTed “Oscar” Meyerwriting from RamsteinAB. He is stationed at NATO’s ComponentCommand-Air HQ (formerlyknown as AirNorth) with Matt Molineuxand Kathy(Gagne) Amponin. AndyForstner, now a father ofthree (five-year-old son Peter and two-year-old twin girls) is stationedback atTinkerflyingE-3s againfollowing a goodyear atACSC. Greg Guillot, also at Tinker, is currentlyserving as an E-3 ops sq CC.

Duringtherelease ofthelatest0-5 selection board, Oscartraded e-mailswith severalformerCS-27grads. Heshares: BothBob “Moses”Mozeleski (A-10Driver) and Steve Keller (CEOfficer) are servingtours with 9AF at ShawAFB,SC; Moses isinOVandSteveisassignedtoA7. Stevehasbeenin-theaterinSWAsinceshortly after his summer ’04 arrival at Shaw. Chirs “Carp” Carper, Leemon Baird, and Chris Marcell (notCS-27) are all back at USAFA. Carp is a deputyGroupAOCwhileLeemon, PhD and all, supportsacademia (likes that’s a bigsurprise) inthe Comp Sci Department. Carp reports that things have significandy changed at USAFAand thatAOCs no longerworkthe hours, and at thelocales (readgolfcourse andgym), that we remembered themworkingwhen we were cadets.

Oscarcontinues: GregCochrangot outoftheUSAF a couple ofyears ago. Ted Corallo is the DO ofthe 15 SOS at Hurlburt and Mike Oudawis currendystationed at Ft Bragg; both are in the Snake Eater/ SpecOps world. ChrisAthearn chimed in from the F/A-22 PEM and passed alongthat RayPlumley, now a medical doctorafterhis stint as a helo pilot, is at Spangdahlem AB caringforthe sick and injured. Chris also passedalong that Scott Kirbystill lives in Phoenix, still loves the Dallas Cowboys, and is now aVP at AmericaWest airlines. Jeff“Sully” Sullivan joined the OH ANG and is now flying KC-135s whilewaitingforthe airlines to call back. He moved back to his hometown ofMilford, OH and had a house built afterleaving active duty. Jeff Wegnerstill flies forAA out ofMiami (standby/reserve 1 st officer for 757 and 767) and he andDebbie thoroughlyenjoyraisingtheirsixchildren, theyoungest born Jan 04. Thanks forwriting!

Tim Traubwrites from my current neckofthewoods: Annyonghasaeyo from Korea! I’m doingwell here as the Commanderofthe 303rd Intel Squadron (aka SkivvyNine) at OsanAB, ROK. Ilead a solidgroup ofintelproswho conduct the intelligencemission associatedwith the U-2 and some groundsystems as well. We team closelywith the 5th Recon Sqwhich fliesthejetandthe 607th AirIntel Sq which conducts intel analysisworkwith us. Collectively, we comprise theDistributed Ground Station-3 within the Korean Combat IntelligenceOperations Center (KCOIC) bunker on Hill 180, highoverlookingthe base. On a 24/7 basis, we feed intel directly into the Korean Air Operations Centerwithin the HardenedTacticalAirControl Center (HTACC) across the street.

Tim continues: I also have about 45 folks who workin three locations up in the Seoul metro area so I get off-base regularly to see their great work, too. Command has been both challenging and rewarding. We’reverymission focusedwith a high ops tempo—it has also been great to see all myAirmenwin awards and getpromoted. Rhonda and I take care ofabout 60 families as well. As you can imagine, our NEO program is prettyentailedhere. We have a high percentage ofrepeatassignees due to the specialized skills our people possess.

We’ve been here sinceJuly2004 andwillbe hereforanotheryear. Ifyou’re ever in the area, please look me up and I’ll give you the tour. Thanks Tim!

Our next update comes from Rich Lewis, President and CEO ofRTL Networks, Inc., based in the Denver Metro area. Rich recentlyreceived recognition from the Air Force Outreach Program Office through a news release issued byBrooksAir Force Basetitled, “Recipe for success: Expertiseplus ethics thewinningingredients forAfricanAmerican entrepreneur.” Rich states: “My Air Force background and trainingwere immenselyhelpful in the establishment ofRTL Networks, and continue to serve me wellin the day-to-dayoperations ofthe company. Not only did myAir Force career equip me with the education and experiencerequired to operate a technology company, it also embedded a ‘can do’ attitude, built character, and instilled a strong sense of ethics.” You can checkoutthefullrelease at inthe news section ofhiscompany’s web site at http://www.rtl-networks.com. Congrats Rich... well done!

Myold roommate fromEllsworthAFB, MikeTrefry, writes from sunnyArizona where heworks forRaytheonMissile Systems as a software engineer. His efforts are currently focused on the Standard Missile-3 Program, which providestheNavywiththeaterballisticmissile defense. MikemarriedPattiHiebert on 1 Jan2000. Before leavingtheAirForce Mike was aB-IBWSO, then moved to Pensacola NavalAir Station and taught navigators at Joint Undergraduate NavigatorTraining. He then got out and went to workforRaytheon. Mike and Patti enjoyvacationing to Canada, where Patti is from, as well as Australia, Hawaii, andAlaska. Patti recentlygraduated from the UniversityofArizona with her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. Great to hear fromyou Mike!

Newlyweds Mike and PattiTrefy

Rondall Rice, USAFA Assistant Professor of History, heard from Doug Kennedy, who finished his deployment to Iraq earlier thisyearand returned to ScottAFB. Joe Richardson is at theAcademy as an AOC for CS-30. One ofmy squadron-mates fromtheCampus Rads ofCS-39,TonyPollizzi, sent a photo ofhis lovelyfamily. As I mentioned last issue, they are stationed at McGuire AFB and expecting an assignment soon.

Dominic,Tony, Raquel, and Nicholas Pollizzi

That’sitforthis quarter. Bestwishes toyouandyourfamilies. Take care and God bless.

JamesSanchez

8301 Emerald Circle

North Richland Hills, TX 76180

H: (817) 881-6357

Web: WWW.USAFAT0DAY.COM/1990

E-Mail: editor@usafatoday.com

MikeShea: I’mstationed atD-M as the755AMXS/CC. DanVasquezandRick Mussi are also in the 55 ECG.

Tom Goulter: I’m at OffuttAFB doing thejointthing at USSTRATCOM flying

Sabre Society Donors

Tim Traub and the SkivvyNine warriors.

on the E-6B (LookingGlass mission). When notflying, I gottaggedagain as an exec. Will be heading to Langley this summer to take command ofthe 1st Services Squadron.

OliWashington: I’m at the Space and Missile Systems Center at LosAngeles ALB. I now have a two-week-old son, JamesXavierWashington, to pal around with his five-year-oldbigbrother Zack. I’ve attached a familypicture with babyX. I’mworking in the Satellite ControlNetworkProgram Officewith our classmate Major Dale Winger; he’s our contractingofficer. We’re still loving L.A.! But I’m PCSing to D.C. next month. I’ll beworkingin SAL/XC - -hope to see manyMightyNinetyers in the Pentagon!

Sam “Meat” Skaggs: Mywife, Darlene, oursonLuke (12) and I will be headingoffto Ramstein this summer followingACSC. I will beworkingin theAOC there as an airlift planner. It’s been a greatyear ofgolfbut now it’s time to go back to work.

Lou De Felice: I am still in a northern suburb ofChicago. Wehad our second daughter and fifth and finalchild last May. The company I started fiveyears ago, CredentialSmart, is doingwell now. If anyone is passingthroughChicagogive us a shout; myoffice is downtown in the loop and we live a fewblocks offofthe lake. We’dlove to entertain anyone passingthrough... ifyou can survive the five kids.

Liz (Gmpe) Orie: Steve and Iwillbe PCSingto USAFA! Steve graduates fromACSC in June and will report to USAFA to workinAdmissions. Iwillreportto USAFAin Septemberinto a new office, Culture andClimateProgramManager. We are lookingforward to returning to Colorado Springs. We’ve tried several times with no luck, so this is great! Ifanyone isvisitingin the area, pleaselook us up!

David Croft: I receivedmysecond Master’sofScience a fewdays go. This one isinAppliedCognitionandNeurosciencefromtheUniversityofTexas at Dallas (UTD).

OliWashington andBabyX

Tim MacGregor: I graduated from the College ofNaval Command and Staff in Newport, RI last summer and am now at the Pentagon as theTankerBranch Chief, Global Mobility Division, Directorate ofPrograms, DeputyChiefof StaffforPlans andPrograms (HQ USAL/XPPM). In thejob I program the budgets, force structure, and related issues for all KC- 135s, KC- 10s, andthe future “Tanker Replacement Aircraft.” Other grads in the divisioninclude Skip Vanderbach and Pat Rhatigan (’91). Mywife, Lee, and I and our fourkids live at BollingAFB.

John R. Hall:We movedback toWashington a coupleyears ago afterI gotlaid offffomNorthwestAirlinesandlgotajobwithBoeing. MyC-17 unitatMcChord AFB was activated last month, justprior to myrecall from furlough at Northwest. So for now I am flying to some nice desertlocations on a regular basis.

Lee Newton: I’m the DO ofthe 40 HelicopterFlight. Beth (Charles) Lidal is also here.

Laura (Weber) Comeaux: I’m livinginVirginiaBeach,VA on furlough from AmericanAirlines.

Dan Kaltenbaugh: I’ll be PCSing to the Pentagon inApril (XOOTE).

PellThompson: I’m currentlyassigned to MaxwellAFB. I PCS toVandenberg AFB with RNLTD 31 May05.

KevinYandura: I’m at ScottAFB sinceApr04, trudgingthroughthewonderful world ofthe staff. I’ll spend the upcoming year at the AMC Commander’s Action Group, hopingfor a Summer ’06 PCS, preferablyback to a cockpit! We enjoythe familylife here in O’Fallon, and ofcourse I can’t complainlivingjust a fewminutes from Busch Stadium—Go Cards!

Greg Newman: I’ll be moving (PCSing) from the Safety Center at Kirtland AFB, NM to my new assignmentwith DCMA in FtWorth, TX. I’ll be the F-16 Acceptance Pilot at the Lockheed factory. I ran into Noel Nistler: He’sTDYto the SafetyCenter forthe FlightSafetyOfficer course.

Paul Pepe: I’m now in the A3 Staff at HQ AMC at Scott AFB working as a MAJCOM Evaluator pilot. I’m enjoying the St. Louis area. (Go Cards!).

Kurt Peters: I finally tied the knot this past Nov20th. I’m in Hampton,VA earning my PhD at Old Dominion University in Electrical Engineering. I’m also working as a Reservists as ACC’s DeputyChiefScientist. Mywife, Traci, works as an Optometristin the clinic on Langley.

Zac Belcher: Afterfive years ofliving in Europe (three in Geneva and two in London) we are headed back to Cincinnati, OH. Am comingup on eightyears with Procter & Gamble. Family is doingfine. Kids don’t know quite what to expect living in the States as they are nine, eight, and five and have very few memories ofit.

Bold Gold! When you read this, we will have reached the point - being one yearaway- ofhaving to decide “will we have a 15-yearreunion, or not?” I feel stronglythatdespite our awesome attendance atthe 10-year, despitebeing one month after9-11, thattheoperations nevertheless preventedsuch a large numherfrom attendingthat we “owe it to ourselves” to at least do something. This may mean planning the simplest event possible. Number one challenge: I rarelyhearfrom anyone about having a 15-year, so I wonder ifmany are really even interested. So, please, do this: email carson.tavenner@hotmail.comwith the subjectline “I want a 15-yearreunion”. Don’tbotherputtingin text; I won’t open emailswith that subjectline. I’djustlike an idea ofifthere is anysupport. In the meantime, I will at least laythe groundworkwith theAOG, since they aren’t normallypoised to support them.

Colleen (McCrary) Lester, where are you? I’ve lost touch and havewanted to get back to you about the class merchandise. Please contact me, thanks.

Okay, nowfor news! Families are growing! Steph (Shields) Williams hadher second daughter, Molly (Nicole, herfirst, is now five), at the end ofMarch and she shared a photo on the classwebsite. Congratulations, Steph!

Morefamilybuilding... ChristyLeaderis now ChristyHolliday! She married the love ofherlife,Tim, lastJuly! (Tookawhile to get the news!) They are living in Slidell, LA (just outside ofNew Orleans)... so anyone passingthrough New Orleans for a weekend should lookthem up, she says! She furthershared, “we always enjoypartying in the citywith friends (ofcourse, now that we are getting further away from our ’20s, ‘partying’ seems to be a little tamer with a longer recovery time). I also accomplished one ofmy biggest life goals....I

GregNewman

Mike Van Rietruns theNewYorkMarathon.

completedthe Florida Ironman in Nov2004, finishingin 12 hours and 38 minutes! I figure, now that I am an Iron Girl, itis time to settle downandhavekids... so thatis our next biggoal! I am currently an IMA at MaxwellAFB doingstatisdeal analysis for the Squadron Officer College... so any buddies going thru ACSC should give me a quickemail andwe’ll gettogetherandreminisce about the ‘good ole days! Stillfirrloughedwith Deltathoughthe numbers are getting close... so keeping our fingers crossed... starting to miss those takeoffs and landings!”

Didyouhearthat, youACSC folks? Find Christy over there and giveher a big smileand a hugforme! That’s great news, Christy. All the best to you andTim!

Christyand Tim Holliday, marriedJuly2004-livingoutsideNewOrleans.

Lynn Gawell wrote fromWright-Pattersonwhere’s she’s now stationed at the NationalAir & SpaceIntelligence Center in theAir Capabilities Division as a Branch chief. She andAndy (Freeborn, '92, currentlydeployed) moved there from Edwards. She says, “It’s an interestingjob and I’m expandingmyknowledge oftheAF... Andyis currentlydeployed andwilljoin me in the summer... his tour in Florida has been much more relaxingthan lastyear’s in Baghdad. I was able to visit him down inTyndall and we even took a tour oftheAOC and SCIE Myfolks arevisitingthisweekhelpingmewiththehouse and we are already making up the ‘honey-do’ list for him (giggle). Wewill also reunitewith our ferretchildafter a fouryear separation. California’s anti-ferret lawprevented our ‘children’ to join us while we lived in Edwards.”

6 Sabre Society Donors

I asked Lynn abouther call sign, “Jinx”, and got a good story to share: “I got [it] due to the sheer numbers ofIFE/ missionchanges/weather/ground events thathave occurred during myflying career. I’ve had over 20 IFEs/hot brakes/ groundemergencies and egresses in three different countries. Duringthefirstyearalone, I had seven IFEs including one class C mishap in the KC- 135A/Q. While at Kadena, ifyou called me Jinxprior to a mission we would eitherhave an IFE or massive mission changes due toweather/receiver) duringthe flight. On one notable occasion, the SQ/CC was on board giving a checkride. He said ‘HiJinx’ first thing in the morning... we ended up having smoke and fumes in the cockpit on seven-mile final during the firstapproach. While I was an instructor atAltus, I was having an IFE about everysixmonths. There reallyis nothing more enjoyable than having fumes in the cockpit on student sortie one with a young crew. They are not quite spring loaded for egressingthe airplane. Last summer I had a ground emergencyduringthe KC135Wheels and Brakes test (thebrake assemblywas on fire) one weekfollowed by an IFE the next. When I had my F- 16 ride with Capt Hans “Lucky” Miller (’93), I fullyexpected to have an IFE. Luckily, it was a great flight!

"... [but] I’mverylucky in my career. Not onlyhave I had a chance to flyand instruct, but I’ve also been able to broaden myhorizons and see outside the operational field. I’vehad a chance to learn about the acquisition process and even participate in a fewtests andnowl’mlearningabout intelsupport. I really didn’t realize how narrow myfield ofvision was until mylast two tours. I will say I’m luckywith my division. I have sharp folksand while we are undermanned (30/36 billets filled and two deployed) we are still better offthan my lastunit. Thepaceisslowerherethan atEdwardsbutthen again, Edwards was sprintingforthelastfewyears to gettheRaptor out ofEMD and a fewproducts out to the units.”

Thanks, Lynn! In closing, here are some words from our good friend Bill Casebeer:

“We welcomed a fourth child into the family on Jan 20. Mason Benjamin Casebeeris doinggreatand is healthyandhappy. Adrianne is doingfine, and theotherthreechildren are allenjoyinghomeschoolingandlivinginMonterey. We PCSed to Monterey, CA to attend the Naval Postgraduate School for IDE about halfa year ago. I’m earning an MA in Middle EastArea Studies, which is greatfun. I haven’t seen anyother’9lers here, though. Ourbook on terrorism will be out inAugust. It’s titled “Warlords

Rising: ConffontingViolent Non-StateActors,” and is byTroyThomas, Steve Kiser (’90) and myself. It’s beingpublishedbyLexington Press. Hopefully it will be well-received.”

“Let’sjustsaylhadnoproblem seeingbeyond thecrowds at this event. For myself (Tav), I am remaining atYokota for another two years but I’m closing down my squadron (it is becoming an A2 staff) and moving over to work in U.S. Forces, Japan (joint staff). Here I am at a cherry blossom event hosted bythe Prime Minister, with some lovely, elderlyladies whowanted a picture with what I’m sure theythought was a freak ofnature (!) N’joy!

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

James S. Mehta (1992)

Hello again Class of 1992... good to see you tuned in again for your class news. I don’t have too much in the old mailbag, but did see some ofyou out there andread aboutthe greatthingsyou are doing. One note, bythe timeyou read this I will be in Iraq for a six-month deployment at the Baghdad InternationalAirport, so ifanyofyou are there or passingthrough, ensure you stop by OSI for a visit and I’ll do what I can to help you out.

Maildelivery. I got an e-mail from Rob Toblerwho took a short-notice PCS withthefamilyfromAltusAFB toAFPC atRandolphAFB. Rob isworkingassignments fortheairliftworld andispartoftheforcedevelopment team. I guessheshouldgethischoiceofassignmentswhen he leaves there or else he’llhave no one to blame buthimself...

What’s up doc? Last summerTommyBendergotbackinto theAF aftercompletinghisresidencyin dermatologyatTulane University. His first assignment was to Eglin AFB where he and his family are enjoying the Emerald Coast and hoping theAF lets them stayfor a while. Todd Kobayashi is also a doctor at Eglin. Todd and his wife, Jill, had a little girl, Julia Day, in Feb 05. Finally,Tommy ran into Chris Ferris whojust separated and is movingto Raleigh, NCwithhiswifeandthree-year-olddaughter. Hejust finished an assignment as an instructor pilot at Whiting Field in Holley, FL. Thanks forthe info,Tommy. It’s been awhile since we went to that Capitolsplay-offgame in D.C....

6 Sabre Society Donors

Myfinal e-mail is from Jim Dittuswho I last saw at the Falconsvictoryat the SiliconValleyBowl. Jim is stationed at USSTRATCOMandworked as aweapon system programmer in the J8 alongwith Steve Gast (’73), ScottJacobs(’91), and Julius Stephens (’96) for the past two years. According to Jim, “That’s fancy for saying I workmarketing to ensure mycommand and strategic systerns ofinterest get as much moneyadded as possiblewhile simultaneously

Jim, Christa, Erin, Josh, andJake

ensuring no money is taken away from them.” He just moved to the Commander’s StaffGroup andhas been nominated to theAMC crossflowprogram, thanks to some help fromTedWeibel atAMC/A1. Sam Chesnut is also at USSTRATCOMworkingin theAir Room.

Jim and his wife, Christa, have nearlycompleted their firstyearwith their third child, Jake, who was born last July. He joins Erin (5) and Josh (4) to round out Jim’s Falcon cheeringsection. Last September, Jim ran the Omaha marathon, his first, in 3:53. He discovered Dennis Garrett (’91) about four miles from the start having no ideaDennis was living in Nebraska.

At the end ofApril, Jimgotto catch up a bitwith a numberof’92erswho were visiting USSTRATCOM with theAdvanced StudyofAir Mobility (IDE). More on that next. Thanks for the e-mail, Jim.

TDY. I just finished a six-week OSI pre-deployment course at Ft. Dix, NJ where OSI uses some classroom space at theAirMobilityWarfare Center. I ran into Chuck Henderson and Steve Hasstedt at the gym there in the building. They, alongwith several other ’92 guys are in theAdvanced StudyofAirMobility course (thevery same thatvisited USSTRATCOM—anothersmallAF coincidence), which is both an IDE and master’s degree program and lasts almost ayear. WhenIwent over to theirclassroom to tryto coordinatelunch, I ran into several other classmates: Rob Fletcher, Will Lockhart, Dave Mott, and JR Twiford. We never did gettime to go to lunch, butitwas good to see those guys for a littlewhile. I did see Chuck at Mass on Sundayandhad a chance to meet his wife, Tina, and their two sons.

The FedExGang. Myold roommate, Don Unwin, has been flyingforFedEx for awhile. In a recent hiringspell, he noted a number ofclassmateswho came aboard to includeJohn Gurriere, MarkSteger, RickMurphy, Dan Neff, Shawn Donahey, and Michelle Carson. He also told me thatArtie Bagomolnyandhis wifejust had their third child, a girl.

HeadlineNews. Finally, some ’92ershave madetheAFNewsheadlines once again. Mike Bruzzini is stationedhere at Nellis flyingPredators. I ran into him at the gym several months back. In a 10 Feb 05, AFNews article, Mike was interviewed about the awesome work that the Predators are doing in Iraq. Mike is a squadron commander thereand stated, “Our biggest mission is to support [Soldiers on the ground].” He continued, “Obviouslyifwe catch the bad guys that are shootingmortars at our base, the mortars stop.We saw mortars launched and took out theperpetratorswithHellfire missiles. Ifyou have a chance, check out the whole article on the www.af.mil/news/ website.

Maj. MichaelBruzziniinspects an RQ/MQ-1 Predator unmannedaerial vehicleas the46thExpeditionaryReconnaissanceSquadron commander. (U.S. Armyphoto bySpc. Leah R. Burton)

I also came across anothergreatpictureof’92 inaction. As Ireportedin mylast column, JeremySloanjoinedtheThunderbirds as theirOperations Officerand flies the No. 7jet. Obviously, as a member oftheThunderbirds he is constantly appearingin the media and ffequendyprovides incentive rides formediaand celebrities. In March, the Thunderbirds presented their new performance to GenJumperand the followingphoto appeared on theAF Newswebsite:

Final notes. While at Ft. Dix, I recognized Dave Durbin in the hallway. He has been at Ft. Dix for over a year and is married and has a babygirl. Here at Nellis, I ran into Chris Caputo at the O-Club barbershop. Chris isfinishing up an assignmentwiththeAirWeapons School as anA-10 instructor and is doing great. Mike Rokaw sent me a letter that he andAngela have brought home a playmate for Sophia—SamuelHenry, born 22 April 05. Congratulations!

Once again I have managed to fill up my allotted space. It’s alwaysexciting to see all ofyou out there in theAF. Time has reallyflownbywhen we can start almost start countingtheyears until we are eligible forretirement onjust one hand. Well, we’re a fewyears from that, but it’s not too far off. Don’tlet itpass you by. So, until next time, stayTrue Blue ’92! James.

Michael D. Sundsted

1805 Macadams Place

Alexandria, VA 22308 (703) 768-5664/ DSN: 858:6723

E-mail: Bravecwboy@aol.com

Class Website: www.highflight.com

Greetings to all! I hopeyou are having a fantastic summer so far and fall is around the corner. Our summer has been busy, but definitely fun. We are about to go to Aruba for a couple ofweeks for our vacation! Woohoo! Okay, okay, I won’t gloat. Afterthat our son Collinwill start kindergarten!

Enough about us... Well, I am sure everyonehad a greattimedecipheringthe electionproceedingsoftheAssociation ofGraduatesthisspring. Thereis (probably) much to talkaboutin this arena, but Iwon’t use this forum to do so. Ifyou have anyquestions or comments on the results, andwhat it means pleasegive theAOG or myselfa call. On to the news...

Received a great U.S. Mail letterfrom Rob LundyfromNorth Carolina. He, Jennifer, son (Chris), and new beautiful babygirl (Angelina) are doingwell at PopeAFB. Rob is doingmuchjustice in theGlobalWar on Terror! He loves his squadron andfullyenjoys the slow-moving,low-flyingC-130. He sees several ofour classmates to include:Waylon Richards, AndyMaas,AmyYoung, Rob Powelland Phil “Slim” Thompson (’92). Thanks for the update and picture Rob andJennifer!

Rob andhislittleangel atfourmonths.

Sidebar on our Checkpointsmagazine... Ifyou are like me whenyou receive ourAOG magazine, you go right to our column to checkup on our classmates and then maybe wanderaround the “Long Blue Line” to find other friends and, maybe, family. Ifyou ever get an opportunity to explore our greatpublication you might see numerous otherclassmates imbedded in different stories, honors, etc. Ourlastpublication ofCheckpointsproves this. There was a greatpicture ofthe CombinedAir Operations Center atA1 UdiedAB, Qatar with allthe graduatesthathappened to be deployedthere are thetime. Among them were some of our classmates Scott Weber, Mike Borys, and Sean McCarthy. Also, in the “Making a Difference” article, Joe Houkpicked up the AirForceAcademyLiaison Officer2004 NationalAwardWinnerforAdditional DutyAdmissions Liaison Officer ofthe Nation. Congrats Joe!

I have received/heard/foundotherstories andpictures ofsome ofour classmates. One ofwhichisveryinteresting comes fromStephenMcllnay. Stephen has had a unique opportunityduringthe GlobalWar on Terror to be the trainingofficer, mentor, instructor, etc for the IraqiAirForce C-130 unit. I can’t tell youhowmanytimes I havehowled athisfunnyand sometimes seriousstories. Belowis an excerpt ofone ofthem.

“The ‘firingrange’ was about 10 miles from our base out in the middle ofthe desert, butthe roads were in suchbad shape that ittook a little over an hour to getthere. Weloadedup alloftheIraqiaviators andmaintainers (and us luckyfive Americans) into the backoffour2.5-tontrucks, met upwith our securityescort andheaded out into the sand. It’s two dayslaterandmybuttstillhurts fromthe

Maj.JeremySloan maintains contactwith the team duringthe demonstration. AftertheshowGeneralJumpergavehisapproval to begin the2005show season. (U.S. Air Force photo byTech. Sgt. Sean MateoWhite)

PHOTO 92-3: Maj.JeremySloan maintains contactwiththe team duringthe demonstration. Afterthe showGeneralJumper gavehis approval to begin the 2005 show season. (U.S. Air Force photo byTech. Sgt. Sean MateoWhite)

ride. We spent almost the entire daywearingbody armor andhelmets getting tossed around the backofa truckand eatingdirt... It’sjust a lotofsand and dirt, OUTSIDEsandanddirt, notairbasesandanddirt We sawcamels,Bedouin, and... lotsofsand! Afterwe spentseveralhourswatchingtheIraqiAFshootatasandberm (ahem, I mean FiringRange), we headedbackhome.TheMREandwaterwe had left overwe leftfortheBedouinwho were busygatheringall our brass casings. I rememberjokinginhighschoolaboutgettingsplintersfrom (notplaying) “riding pine” so much, butwe actuallyhadbruisesandsplintersfrom our trekthroughthe desert. It was definitely anArmyappreciationdayfor me.

We have a new arrival forJason and Julainne Mills. He has been busywith flyingthe mightyKC-135 at Spokane buthas found the time to be a veryproud dad. Jason currentlyworks with the 92 OSS and says it’s a ’93 reunion! Carol Gering, Dan Ely, andTommyThomsen allworkin the same building. David Jason Mills was brought into theworld on 27Apr05 at 0300. Congrats to you!

And now for somethingcompletelydifferent... For all ofthosekaraoke afi-

C.C. M. Masotti

CMR 480 Box 1168

APO AE 09128-1168

W: 011-49-711-680-4131

C: 011-49-162-296-5346

DSN: 314-430-4131

E-mail: masottic@eucom.mil

Greetings, ’94! I trustyour2005 has been good so far. It’smovingmuch faster than I’dlike but otherthan thatlife is goodhere. And, speaking oflife, this has been a great year to celebrate it in our class. Not only have we had several classmates return unharmedfrom deployments (onlyto deployagain in many cases!), butwe’ve also had several little ones joining RedTag families! One is babyJoshuaArvin Leisman, born 3 Feb to Kathy (Cleveland) and Gregg, who are currently at Edwards, but PCSing soon to Kirtland (where Kathywill get out to be a mom/Reservist).

Jason Mills, proudpapa ofnew son, DavidJason. cionados who enjoylistening to Brian “Rug” Burns singBobbyDarin’s “Mack the Knife, and ifyou like NASCAR, you might have seen him dressed in his prettyBlue’s forthe USAFThunderbirds singing our belovedNationalAnthem at a race at the Vegas Motor Speedway. He did an exceptionaljob andthe applause was deafening. Afterhis current tour in theprestigiouspositionof#3, hewillbeopeningup an act inVegas, hotelTBD. Okay, atleastI thinkheshould... At anyrate, my next article should contain pictures ofmyself, Rug, and Steve Hortonfor a classpicture, andmaybe some oftheother ’93ershere atAndrews. TheThunderbirds performedfor us in late May.

Gregg,KathyandJoshuaLeisman

Sarah (Kerwin) andherhusband,Neil, celebratedthearrivalofJamesMichael Strachan on 17April. They’recurrentlylivinghere in Stuttgart (although Neil still “commutes” to the UK occasionally forwork!), but will be departing for England soon when Sarahwraps up herjob inEUCOM PAto pursue her PhD.

4 Sabre Society Donors

Doug Pritchard checks in fromTACC and ScottAFB as an IMA. (Tell Sonny I said hello!) He has been there for about threeyears now. He flies for SouthwestAirlines as do a growingnumber ofour classmates - make room for me fellas. He enjoys flying out of Chicago. Doug, his wife, Christal, and four children (one girl and three boys) enjoy the area. He reports that Rob Rickswandered through town and stopped by on his KC-135 to have dinner with the Pritchards. Rob flies out ofKadena. ChrisWilson is also there at Scott, but as theBranch ChiefforDVtravel. He came there from Hickam asa C-20 guy. Chris, his wife, and three children are doinggreat as well. Doug ran into Kim Williams (Klein) while she was TDYto Scott for a Command and Control class. She is here at Andrews (and better come say hello...), as an IMA married with two kids. Brian Gienapp is PCSingfrom his F-15 assignment at Langleyand going to Iceland fortwo years (burrrrrrrr!)go to the Blue Lagoon! Doug had lunch inVegas with O.J. Sanchez while on a layover. OJ is one of our F-22 finest at Nellis. O.J. - tell Janan that Lori says hello. Finally, Douggives us a Southwest airlines update: Dave Pope (flies out ofPhoenixand isin theArizonaGuard) and Scott Knaub is out ofChicago. Jeff McMillenjustfinishedtrainingwithAirTran and isalso stillenjoyingthemighty C-5 at Kelly-alongwith Jo Sucich.

Speakingofthe Suciches - Kristen andthe kidsjoined Lori for a littlevacation inD.C. My son absolutelyloved the company. Theytoured numerous places. Unfortunately, Jo and I weren’tthere because we were flying - he forthe great airline Jet Blue and I was in Cyprus (darn the luck).

Onelastupdate is fromDaveLeazer. Davewillfinishup DLI languageschool. Heislearning as muchFrench as possibleforhis two-yearassignment to North Africa. Send pictures Dave!

Thanksforthegreatupdates. Iwant some newwriters in addition to the great ones we’vehad. Ifyouhaven’tgiven an update in awhile or EVER, drop me aline. Trust meeveryonewants to knowwhat’sgoing on inyourworld. Lookforward to the USAFAfootball events thisfall - especiallyifyou are in the D.C. area, Jeff Kubikhas a greatplanfortheNavygame. Until we meet again,yourstruly, Mike.

Notin our class, butalso expecting are Susan (Healy) Feland (’93) andNatalie (Holzherr, ’96) Fischer. Those updates are courtesy ofmy“neighbor to the north”, Kelly (Healy) Wallace and her new hubby, Drew. Drew is out ofthe cockpit for a stafftour and Kellyis adjusting to life as a dependant. Unable to get the military or law out ofhersystem, she volunteers at the Ramstein legal office three days a week. TheWallaces have kindlyhosted me when I’ve had appointments atLandstuhl—andinvited me tojoin them on an EasterSunday Rhein RivercruisewhenDr. Adelle Belisle was visiting. Adelle is inherlastyear ofresidencyat UCONN and was able to sneak a quickbreakbetweenrotations to come visit Germany and Paris.

We didn’t get to cruise the Rhein or hit Paris but I was fortunate to spend an afternoon in Frankfurtwith Deb (Nawrocki) Luker (JAG, Eglin) when she was rotatingthrough on herreturn fromAfghanistan. She was thrilled to be getting home to Joel, but disappointedthat shewould be leaving him soon again for a remote to Kunsan. NotlongafterseeingDeb, I also had a no-noticevisitwith the othermember of our trio, Jane (Decker) Gibson and her familyduring recent leave in the States. After a week in D.C. I’d departed Dover on an overnightSpace-Aflight to Ramstein; unfortunately, maintenanceissues forced us to turn around not to Dover, but to Wright-Pat. Although concerned I’d need to extendmyleave or buy a commercialticket, I was thrilled atthe chance to see the Gibsons. Jane is Section Commander for the NationalAir & Space Intelligence Center (NASIC) andloves playing“mom”forthenearly700 troops, while herhusbandJeff(’95) is climbingthe ranks ofthe Contractingworld as

Chief, AirVehicles Contracting Directorate. Their kids Regan (12), Sarah (6) andJason (5) staybusyin drama, soccer, and hockey, respectively,whileJustin (2) tries to prove he’s at least as grown up as Jason! I had a fabulous time catchingup with them all and, in the end, made it home in plentyoftime forwork, so it was just a bonus mini reunion.

5 Sabre Society Donors

Speakingofreunions, I’verecentlyreconnectedwith classwebmasterChuck Baird after our work/travel schedules kept us out oftouch. In April, Chuck took over as Director ofWorldwide Maintenance, Noble Drilling Services in Sugar Land, Texas. He’s still kind enough to run our class webpage and sent several updates (some ofwhich are from justafterthe reunion—sorryforthe delay). As usual, we had several folks checkin from the East Coast, including David Reyes-Imbott (Asst ProjectManager/Superintendent for D.C.-area development firm); John Gifft (Lobbyist for Rockwell Collins in RosslynVA); and Brian and Joy Lewis (AO, USAFAActivitiesOffice, Pentagon) intheD.C. area. Greg McCleary (C-130J Pilot, MD ANG) wrote from Maryland, while Mike, Heidi, andRyanGrunwald (DO, 30th IntelSquadron, Langley); Mike Raynoya (Chief, C2ISR SchedulingBranch, Langley); CJ and Jennifer (Patrick) SOVADA (both in staffjobs at Langleyafter their Korea assignment); andJeffandTina (Westfall) Blackman (stay-at-home mom for Caitlin and Nathan andprofessionalorganizer) all checked in from neighboringVirginia. The Carolina crowd included GeoffHickman (F-16 Demo Pilot, Shaw); Dave Kirby (pilot and new homeowner, Charleston) and Chuck McGregor (back at Perot Systems in Charlotte after a long stintin Iraqwiththe Marines—see his reunion picwith Kari andthe kids on the web!).

Also checkingin were Darin Lerew (SeniorScientist, Guidant Corp, Minneapolis); PatWoods (WisconsinANG & Product Mgr, Snap-onTools, Kenosha, WI); Eric and Kim Seiberling (Cincinnati—he’s a BrandManagerforP&G and on-line professor, while she’s finishing her Master of Divinity); Tony Mercandante (StLouis); andJackie LeFevre (Attorney, Mt Prospect IL). More to write from the Midwest/Great Plains crowd were Jay (’93) andBrenda (Boeckman) Clark (mom toWill and Marin,Altus); Dr. Chad Hivnor (Dermatologist, Offutt); andMike, Christine, Brittany andJordan Reed (ProgramMgr, Global C2 Integration, Offutt—see their familyphoto on the website too!).

Chris and Regina (Reinhart, ’95) Kommesser recentlyleft Omahafor Chris to flyC-130s forthe Reserves in C-Springs,joiningothers in the area like Christopher Dalton (Senior CostAnalyst, MCR);Jonathan, lisa, Harrison, andAustin Wright (ContractingIG, HQAFSPC); Mike Suermann (MBAStudent, UCCS); andChuck, Kit, Shelby,Audrey andZachThompson (Southwest Pilot/USAFA Liaison Officer).

Shiloh Fischer (ADO,Tyndall) checked in, as didHeatherAldrich (Engineer, Raytheon, Little Rock) and Lee Mitchell (owns own business in Laurel, MS, spends free timewith hiswife and two kids). Gil Ness (Student, UT) and John and Libby Smith (Pharmaceutical Sales Rep) sent updates fromAustin TX. Desert dwellersJerry (Michael),Jenny, Noah, Joshua, and David Cline (Flight Surgeon, Nellis); GregWood (F-16Test Pilot, Edwards); andTrey, Marcie and babyCodyJackChastain (MXOps Officer, Edwards—seeCodyJack’spicture on the website) also wrote in, while Mike Perz (Engineer, GPSJoint Program Office) wrote from his bachelorpad in L.A.

Writing from the Pacific were JeffBabinski (Elmendorf); Craig “Kegger” Allen (F-16s, Kunsan); Felix, KristyneandEvelyn Montero (7AFAide-de-Camp, Osan); Jason Forest (F-15s, Kadena); andJoe, Bridget (Barton, ’95 Family Practice doc), Holly, Autumn and new babyThill (USFJ BMD Staff,Yokota). Crossingthe globe to the UK, we heard from Chris andJuliGiorgianni (Product Mgr, JCB, Ltd, Rocester, UK) and Rebecca (Medenwalt) Erwin (MXOps Officer, Mildenhall—but moving to the Pentagon soon).

While herupdate didn’t come from thewebsite, Rev. Deonna Neal wrote recently to say she too was U.S.-bound; after a rewarding time at Oxford, she’s decided to accept an offerfor a PhDprogramin MoralTheologyat Notre Dame.

The final mover (and shaker!) I’ll highlight is Joe Michalek, whose bride,

Angela, alwayskeeps me informed... Joe, Angela, Brock (15), Brant (8), and Spencer (6) are leavingHurlburt en route toACSC at Maxwell, but not without leaving a markin Florida—and Iraq. I’m thrilled to announce that our Joe was the worthy recipient ofthe 2004 Lance P. Sijan Award for his efforts in Iraq where, according to theAirForceNewsarticle, “he usedhis vast tacticalexpertise to prepare six crews under his command for sustained combat deployments in one ofthe most complexintegrated air defense systems in theworld. He spearheaded the move from an undisclosedlocation to Baghdad to enable his forces to become more operationally relevant during the initial counterinsurgencyoperations in Iraq. Upon arrival at BaghdadInternational Airport,Major Michalek formulated a plan supporting special operations throughoutIraq.” I’m sure you all remember what a big deal the SijanAward is, so pleasejoin me in congratulatingJoe on hisachievement!

That’s allthe room I havefor now, but I didwantto brieflyaddthatmycousin’s son James was recentlyaccepted into the USAFAClass of2010, thanks in partto the efforts ofhis Liaison Officer (and former CS-23 SMACK) Matt Wadd (’95). I knowit’s a frighteningthought that another Masottiwill soon roam the halls ofthe Zoo; feel free to give him a little flakifyou’repart ofthe current administration! On that note, I hopeyou’re all doingwell and having a terrific year; please continue to keep in touch. 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

ReunionTime: Bythe time this is out, we will be close to our reunion (14-18 Septemberifyouhaven’theard). I mighthavemisseditbeingjustawarded a 120daytrip to a sandyspotstartingSept 1 st I can’tcomplain; MacDillAFB is significantlybetterthanBaghdadInternational, sorryV Yes, BrianMacDonaldwillbe in Iraqforatleast ayearwhichstartedthisJune. Curtis Greenwillalsobe absent atthereunion, flyingtheHH-60 overAfghanistan. Hewanted me to passhisCAS code 99 formissingthe gig (beyondthe cadet’s control—yours and myfavorite). We’reallprayingforyouguys. Comebacksafely. Pleaselet me knowifthere are othersthatwon’tbeable to attend our trip back to COS. Check on the details of our reunion at www.usafa.org/reunion.htm, or at our fantasticclasswebsite (managedbyJennaMasiello) atwww.usafaclasses.org/1995. IfI do make the reunion, keep an eye out, I’ll be in myparka with accessories, hoods worn down.

Goingto theBig“D”: ...and I do mean Dallas. I got to have dinner with John Decker (Susie, Ty (2), and Olivia (l-ish) andthe entire Michael Mills family (Sheri and the girls) in Dallas lastJanuary. Pure comedy. I also got to go skiing at LakeTahoe with Dallas’ favorite son Jake Maloy. Jocko is living in what he calls the calls the “Fruits and Nuts” section ofthe citywhich has some ofthe nicest restaurants and gyms in Dallas. It fits him so well he’s thinkingabout moving to Tahoe for the snow boarding season nextyear. JeremyJohnson isworkingforJohnson & Johnson (S.O.F.) in Dallas, and has a two-year-old son Jadenwith his wife, Kim. Kid ran into JohnnyHarrison a fewmonths ago. Johnny, hiswife, Mina, andhis daughterKia are on theirwayto RamsteinwhereJohnnywillbeflying C-21s. TobyLoftin is doinggreat in Dallas “shout out” to all the 4-smokes from Playboy 19 - HA-LAAH!

Millsy, Deckandmyselfwith three ofourfivekids.

Sabre Society Donors

HitchYourWagon:Justin BrizuelaislivinginTacoma,WAdoingthe CCT act. He says he runs into Jay Pelka from time to time... but didn’t tell me where. Breeze has found a gal that wants to marryhim. They’re tying the knot this summer in NewYork. Curt “Chim-Chim” Green has been makingthe rounds as well. He ran into Pete “Froggy” Sheridan andJake “SweetPants” Maloyin Aspen, CO during a “Fruits and Nuts” weekend. Cutis was also at Nellis during Red Flag 03-1 doingthe J-O-B where I saw his fiancee Unawin “one large” at

Gradsin Iraq: MattHorin (’97), John “Bean” Graham (’99), JoeMichalek (’94), Mike Conley (’96), Travis Clovis (’98), Sean Brammer-Hogan (’98), Sheffield (’03), andSparky(’03).

the Hard Rock’s roulette wheel. Those crazykids are sharingnuptials atWest Point this fall. ColbyHoefar is engaged to Matt Poma’s sisterTori. Those two should wed this June. Colby, Poma, and JeremyJohnson spent aweek bow huntingElkin the Colorado Mountains. T.U.F.F.-tuff. That makes my nature hike with mybearwhistle seem a littleweak

FamilyTimes: Dan McAlister is working in L.A., going to lawschool, supportinghiswife, Mirlo, at Nursingschool, and spending all his free timewith his son Donovan. A1 Barkeris in the FAAwitness protectionprogram in Indianapolis. He’s married (Donna) and has two boys (Evan-3, Drew-1). Good lookin’ kids. One ofmyfavorite familiesfromWest Phoenixhas moved to East MemphisandgiventheirdaughterMaya a sisterBella. PaulandChristySongy welcomed Brooklyn Olivia last December. She’s a doll. Garret Lowe lives in Phoenix and has fourkids now. Seesly. Hannah Mariejusthad herfirstbirthday a fewmonths ago. Kyle andSarah Carpenter are proudparents ofCaroline Rose (21 Feb). (Do me a favor gang, send me pics ofyour kids with you in them... or theAOGwon’t let me print them. Goodjob Kilo.)

Kilo, Sarah and the newest Carpenter, Caroline.

Now for the John Hambysection ofthe update. Stephanie Hamby is with child. That’s right, Bone is going to be a father. Good luck and God bless you andyour new family. Bone mighthave a toughtime makingthe reunion based on the due date. Butler might be in the same boat.

Random Updates: Brian Watkins (April) is in Little Rockwith a fewyoung ’uns. I missed Steve and CynthiaWalker mylast trip to Alaska. Walk is flying withthe mighty517th ArcticAirlift.MikeThode is flyingintheReserve atHomesteadAFB. Steve Sanders is atTinkerandstilllivingthelife ofa cadet,trying to pullwool. Glen Harris got married and no one was invited. He’s atVandenberg now... we think. Jim and Jane Tuomi stopped in for a beer and a fewnights stay. I bumped into Marc Blakely at the MemphisAirport. Marc is selling new fightertrainers out ofDenver andislookingfor some test pilots (303-799-4197). Benji Glazerand his fiancee Claudiatook a roadbiketrip from Dallas toAustin to raise money for Multiple Sclerosis. They did not take theirbikes offofany sweetjumps but raised some good coin for a good cause. Shawn Bemardini is getting out ofthe AF and bedding down in Phoenix. I saw Matt Baade in Scottsdale. He’s on his way back to L.A. chasin’the dream. Robjaymewas awarded the “B-1 Power” gift forspeaking at the EllsworthAFB Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

Jones golfcourse, whenhe’s not askingfor a beer in his broken “hangul”. Have fun at the reunion ifwe don’t make it.

Till then. Keep the Faith, T. Koch.

Melissa S. Cunningham

15668 Candle CreekDrive Monument, CO 80132 (478) 747-6971

E-mail: fmcunningham@aol.com or melissa.cunningham@robins.af.mil

This is mylast article from the Peach State. Fred has alreadymade the trek to the Springs and I’m hoping tojoin him shortly. As far as I know, I’m still in the barrel to go to the USAFA ManagementDeptbarring any Iraqi356-day deploymentwhich mayfall out ofthe sky. So knock on wood, I’mC-Springs bound. Hopefully,bythe time this article goes to print the Major’s board and school results will finally bereleased. Congrats early on getting to wait anotheryear for promotion.

Jamimigettinga "Bone”from ColJoeBrown.

Find the Monkies: Yes ladies and gentlemen, folks are coming out ofthe woodworkthecloserwe get to the reunion. Thanksfortheupdates on the “lost and found” section. This iswhat I got: MattWadd is living in Stuttgart, Germany, and offershishouseand a seatathistableforBeerFest. JasonWroblewski lives in Austin and stays in touchwith MattyWhitney.Whitneyis on hisway back to Osan to flytheA-10 for a fewyears. Mike Brockis at DyessflyingHercs. Jessica (Olson) Sage has been busygettingherlawdegree, gettingthroughthe North Carolinabar, and gettingpregnant. She is expecting thisJune with her husband, Chris (’94). Sang Park ran into JeffPulley (’96) a fewweeks ago in Korea. Sang is living there full-time again. Pulleyis building a Robert Trent

HappyHolidaysfrom theMcClures:Annabel, Josh, Karen, and Connor.

I got a greatupdate fromJoshua and Karen McClure. Just a quickrundown on what they’ve been up too since graduation. Two days after we tossed our hats, Josh and Karen tied the knot. Then it was offtoHanscomAFBfor three years and then to KellyAFB, TX. After our USAFA commitment ended, Josh separated from theAF and settled in Georgetown,TXjust north ofAustin. He and Karen are keepingthemselvesverybusybetween sellinghighperformance gaming computers on-line, raising two beautiful children, Annabel and Connor, teachingSundaySchool, Toastmasters, and sitting on various committees and boards in Georgetown.

RecentlyJosh received news thathis corporation,WidowPC (widowpc.com) had one the Editor’s ChoiceAward from ComputerGamingMagazinefor its top-of-the-linegaminglaptop,TheSting9096. Thisis tremendousconsideringwhatJoshhas overcome inthelasttwoyears. Josh was enjoying success asa financial planner when in November2002 hewas bittenby a mosquitoand came down with aWestNile-like meningialencephalitis. Thislife-threateninginfection attacksthebrainandspinalcord andknocked Josh on his backfor a month. Afterfourweeks ofemergency room visits, spinaltaps, numerous IVs, and neck/jointpain, dizziness, and nausea, he emerged fromhis illness. He had a longroad to recoveryaheadofhimandhis one-man financial planningbusiness was faltering. Out ofthewake ofthis setback, Joshbegan to focus his attention on buildingWidow PC specializing in multiplayeronline roleplayergames. The businesshastakenoffandhas a strongInternetpresence in the niche market ofhighperformancedesktops andlaptops.

I

Dan LuceandKen Cushingat the World Trade CenterGroundZero site.

also got a quick update from Kenneth Cushing and Dan “Luche” Luce. They are currendyAF interns after assignments in Osan and Davis-Monthan,

1 Sabre Society Donors

respectively. Right now they are full-time students atThe GeorgeWashington Universityknocking out a master’s degree. This summer the AF will get its payback for the degreewhen theybegin their rotations as “extrahelp” to offlees in theAir Staff, Joint Staff, or OSD. Their intern class also had an opportunityto visittheWorldTrade CenterGroundZero site andsaiditwas amazing andhumbling. It helpsputinto perspective the ops tempo and sacrifice ofour military over the last threeyears.

Andrea VinyardandChuckPodolak tie theknot.

AndreaVinyardandChuckPodolak (’95) were married on 19 Feb on Flagstaff Mountain in Boulder, CO. On an awesome Colorado day—bigblue skyand a snow storm blowingin from thewest, Scott Cain (’95) led them through their vows as theirweddingofficial. Both theVinyard and Podolakclans alongwith Jennifer (Spindle) andTom Caballero were in attendance at thesmall mountain-top ceremony. Aftertheweddingthe happycouple leftforBanffNational Park,Alberta, Canadato enjoyfive days ofsnowboarding andrelaxingduring theirhoneymoon. NowthatAndiandChuck are backinBoise, ID, theyare busy planning a bigreception this summer forfriends and family to celebrate.

OtherToughAs Bricks (TAB) News: I received an emailfromAmber (Mason) andMartyO’Gradyannouncingthebirth oftheir third child, CaitlinAnne. She was bom two weeks early on 18 Feb, but is healthyandveryactive. Congrats!

Marco Parzych andfamilyand ErikHoffman met upwith ChuckandAndi as part ofa squadron ski trip to GrandTarghee,WY over MLKweekend. All had a great time. Kurk Kremser andAmyPetrina (’98) are gettingmarried 21 May inAmy’shometownofHershey, PA. BlairKaiserwill alsobe offthemarket after his upcomingwedding this springin New Orleans.

Did anyone recognize a familiar ’96 face on the commercials during the Super Bowl? Colleen (Lehne) Johnson was picked to be part ofthe commercial thanking U.S. troops for their service. She was briefly shown walking throughthe airportwith the othersoldiers andairmen and received a standing ovation from the folks in the airport. It was an awesome commercial—the kind that givesyou chills and makes you proud. And no, just in case you are wondering, she andthe other service members were not paidforbeingpart of the commercial.

StacyGeorgilas is currentlyworkingwith a specialprojectwith Kodakin upstate NewYorkuntil Oct 2005. Luckily, her company sends her home once a month to sunny California so she can get a break from the snow. She did make the astronaut candidate list lastyear and is crossingher fingers to get picked next year for astronaut training. Good luck, Stacy.

Paul Graddon leftKunsan and is now stationed at USAFE Plans & Programs staff. In September he’ll deploy to Bosnia forthree months as part ofthe StabilityForces HQ in Sarajevoworkingwith forces from about 30 different nations. Also in USAFE is Carrie (Loudermilk) and Jim Pederson. They are endingtheirEuropean vacation and heading to Little Rockshortly. Rita Perez is also in USAFE working in the Commander’s Action Group. Sarah Whittingham, a flight doc, is also deployed there.

AndiVinyardpassedalong some news from some oftheTABs she’sbumped into over the course ofher travels: Todd andYumi (Ramirez) Lafortune recentlyhad a babyboy, Raiden. Andi ran intoTonyPrincipi at LangleyAFB and found had that he had been recently married. Finally, she bumped into Jill (Vaness) Watts and herhusband at a local cafe and all is goingwell.

I got an e-mail from Derek Thomas who is flying C- 17s at McChord. He passedalong some news about a fellowWarhawk, Shawn Fitzgerald. Shawn cross-commissionedinto theArmyaftergraduation. He is currentlystationed inVicenzia, Italybutwill embark on a year-longdeployment to Afghanistan. During the war, he spent a year in Iraq. Makes a 120-day rotation looklike a cake walk. Will Skeeters was just hired bySouthwest so he’ll be making the transition to civil aviation soon.

Thanks forall the inputs forthis article. I always need yourinput andhelp to keep this column running, so please take the time to write, e-mail, or send a picturewhenyou can. Keep collectingpictures for the class reunion. Itsjust one yearaway!

Until next time! 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

Hi all. Mel asked me (SamanthaWeeks) to write this quarter’supdate since he is deployed to Iraq for a fewmonths. It’s been a while since I lastwrote and I’vemoved twice. I spent a year remote at Osan AB, ROK as an Air Liaison Officerwhile myhusband was at KunsanAB (not a bad remote, huh?). We are now stationed at ElmendorfAFB,AKwhere I am againflyingthe F-15C. Laura Goodman, MattVincent (F-15C), Derek Sellnow (C-130), Steve (F-15E) and Laura Taylor (C-12) are ’97ers that I’ve recently run into stationedhere. Derek Sellnowis a father ofthree girls (goodluckwhen they’re all in highschool) and will be PCSing soon to Tinker. While in Korea, I ran into quite a few people from our class including:Todd andYumi (’96) Lafortune, JaredJolmson, Chuck Huber, and Ryan Haden. Ryan and Gwenn recendyhad a daughter (Kendall) and are now back at Pope, after Ryan spent six months atWeapons School. Ryan was atWICwithDaveRayman,TomBladen, MorrisFontenot (’96),Rogelio Maldonado, Ryan Keeney, JeffPercy, Kevin Sutterfield, and Dave Lyons. I mayhave missed a fewpeople in thatWIC class, so I apologize.

Mel Maxwell in Iraq

Mel did pass some words and a picture from theAOR. He is assigned to the Project and Contracting Office, Logistics Directorate in Baghdad, Iraq. He spent his first three weeks in country as a shooterwith a contracted security team supporting tractor-trailer convoys. He says he “rolled around in an armored F-350 ‘gun truck’ with M-4 in hand, pulled security in downtown Baghdad, andhandedouttonsofeandytokids.” He is grateful to the ex-militaryand ex-lawenforcement contractors that taughthim duringhis shorttime with them. Mel is now in charge ofthe main distribution center andthe only military person permanentlyassigned there."We get mortared and rocketed regularlybuthavebeen fortunate not to haveexperiencedanysignificantlosses from the attacks.” Mel wanted to “give a shout out to Louella Lovelyand Joy Boston (’98) for their care packages. Louella is coachingvolleyball at Notre Dame andhad the team send some love from South Bend. And Joy sent so much candythat the kids in theAl-Waleed neighborhood may erect a monument in her honor. Joyis leaving Ramstein thisfall for DM inArizona.

I also received an update from Beth Sumner (Benson) who separated from theAirForce in the middle ofFebruary. She left active dutyand reported to the IdahoAirNational Guard the next day; she currentlyworkswithA-10s and C130s andpasses on that“Guardlife is awesome!” Beth married to RichSumner, an F- 15C pilotwho recentlyreturned from a remote assignment in Korea.

The picture is from their wedding. Beth also passed on that Kim Reed

Beth andRich Sumnerat theirwedding.

(Campbell) is returningfrom a deployment inAfghanistan andisPCSingto the 422Test Squadron at NellisAFB, and is looking forward to beingbackwith her husband, Scott“Soup” Campbell (’95). Shannon Faber moved to EglinAFB, FL and isworking as an ER doctor. TaraShamhart isworking as theArea Defense Council inTurkeyuntil the fall, andwill then PCS to Travis AFB, CA. Scott andWendy (Palatinus) Devenish are back at USAFAwhere theyboth teachflyingto the next generation. Beth ran into Dr. Jackie Percy (Family Practice Clinic) at Osan during a vacation to Korea.

1

Sabre Society Donors

RyanMcCreightalso sent an update. He started terminal leave at the end ofApril and is separating a yearearlythanks to Palace Chase. He is transitioningto the Colorado Springs Reserves where hewill continue to flythe C-130. Ryan says he’s not sad to leavePopeAFB, NC but is goingto miss some ofthe dudes. Andy Jett, SammyHouston, GeorgeBuch, Chris Mitchell (’96), and Chris Dougherty (’96) are all stationed at Pope. Ryan’s bigger news is his recent marriage to Beckywho is a controllerwith the North CarolinaANG. They sent a picture from their recent deployment to A1 Udeid from this pastwinter (see there are some benefits for mil-mil couples...).

Gretchen Rhoads and fianc^Tom

RyanJohnson (probablybetterknown as RJ) andhiswife, Silinda, are both in strategicpurchasing as well. I guess ajoint master’s degreewasn’t challengingenoughforthis couple—these two had to addstarting a familyto theirlist. Silindaand RJ added babygirlRylee to theirfamilyin January. After graduation in March theymoved toWarner Robins in Georgia.

Ryan andBeckyMcCreight atA1 Udeid.

AndyJett, Dan Rohlinger (T-1s at Laughlin and headedback to Charleston AFB, SC), Chris Barrett (KC-lOs atTravis also going to the Reserves) and Dan Begin (’96; flying C-130s at Little Rock) attended Ryan and Becky’swedding. Melshouldbebackforthe nextupdate, butfeelfree to sendany news myway too and I’ll forward it to him. Take care, Samantha (Samantha.weeks @elmendorf.af.mil).

Karin McWhorter

c/o Dave and Sandy Klein

1180 Garlock Lane

Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Andrew.mcwhorter@osan.af.mil

Happy Summer ’98, I hopeeverythingis goingwell. Bythe time this isprintedmyfamilywillhave settled into our new home in Korea. We have taken an accompanied tour to Osan and are looking forward to the adventure. So, ifyou are ever in the area look me up!

I onlyreceived one update this quarterand itwillmake up the bulk ofthe article. Ifyou are sitting out there thinking “I really shouldwrite Karin, stop thinking about it and do it!

Krista Marchand (Steenbergen) wrote from Dayton, OH where she is fighting hard to finish off a master’s degree in physics atAFIT. Tom Jost is there with his wife, Trisha, getting his degree in physics as well. He graduated in March and they are stationed at thelabs in Hawaii as his follow-on.

Sabre Society Donors

Despite the astoundinglyexpensivehousing situation there, theywere both veryexcited about the move. They are expecting theirfirstchild inAugust.

Derek Tharaldson and his wife, Katie, just showed up to complete their master’s degrees in Ops Research. He’s sponsoredbytheAcademy so his follow-on will be to return to USAFA to teach (March ’06).

Gretchen Rhoads also finished herdegree in strategicpurchasing in March and also gotengaged to Tom Clohessy—a guyshe met atAFIT. She bought a condo—but is planning to rent it outwhile she’sworkingherfollow-on in D.C.

RJandhislittlegirlRylee.

Outside ofAFIT, Lou Ruscetta (probablybetterknown as ‘DirtyLou’) is also atWright-Patworkingat one ofthe SPOs. He recentlygotengaged to super-AFtriathlete,AbbyWhite (’97) who has gotten him involvedwith triathlons as well. He ran a 1/2 marathonwith herlast summer in NewOrleans ifyou can believe that one!

AwayfromWright-Pat,Andy and Beth (Zeman) Stohlmann had their first child inJulyof’03—Mr. Chase Elliott Stohlmann. Theyreturned to the States from Ramstein just last summer. Andyis now flying C-17s out ofFairchild. Their second child, a little girlwho was actuallyborn at home and not on purpose, was born in February. When Beth andAndywent to MadiganArmy Medical Center, theysent herhome because hercontractions were “too mild and not close enoughtogether.” Theywent home... and the baby decided it was time. She delivered Maiya Ester Stohlmann in her living room.

June Cruse is now aT-37 IP at Columbus. She took the first step towards settling down bybuying a house down there. She loves putteringaroundher yard and chattingwith herneighbors.

Michelle Tibbitts is working for the Air Force in South American foreign affairs. She travels a lotand in herlatestmessage to Krista she mentioned two different cities in both Chile andArgentina in one paragraph.

Matt Darling is a doctor at McConnellAFB. He andhis gorgeouswife,Alexandria,just had theirTHIRD little boy in June '04.

ErikEichin is enjoyinglife over in Englanddoingsomethingphysics-comm

TheStohlmann familybefore thebirth ofMaiya.

related. Rachel (Tukey) Metzgar and herhusband, Chuck (’95), are teaching at theschoolhousethereinAltus, OK. She’s teachingthe KC-135 andhe’steaching the C-17. They aren’t huge fans ofAltus but are veryglad to finallybe stationed together. Her sisterJenna (Tukey) Flynt had a babylastwinterand she and her husband, Jack, moved to Altus lastJanuary. Ben Menges is flyingthe KC-10 out ofTravis.

The onlyupdate I have to add to Krista’s is thatJoy Boston came to see me here in Arizona before we left. She is still at Ramstein and recentlyreturned from Iraq. She will be stationed here at Davis-Monthan in the fall.

Ok, that is it forthis update. Agreatbigthanks to Krista formakingithappen. I am not sure what our e-mail situation will be in Korea, so I am putting my husband’s military account for updates. By the next article I should have a betteridea. Have a great summer-

Karin

James W. Busch

4050A Cambridge Loop Hill AFB, UT 84056 (801) 776-3586

busch99@earthlink.net or James.busch@hill.af.mil

Shiners-hello from HillAFB. Greatnews! SheppardAFB has finallyreleased its grip inTravisWalters. HeisofftoAbilenetoflytheC-130atDyess. Heand hiswife, Dorothy, bought a house there and are expectingtheir second. Look himup ifyou’re ever out thatwayalthoughwiththe opspace he’ll likelybe out oftown. CongratulationsTravis on your second career PCS.

The onlyother news came from Mary (Long) Sletten. Maryis out oftheAir Force now and found the time to take a nice trip to Europewith Stef(Nocum) and MattWilliams. While in Englandshespent some timewithTheresa (Siegel) Thompson and Kasia (Singer) Gilbert. Theresa and Kasia are enjoyingcivilian life as F-15C spouses at Lakenheath. Stefand Matt are now stationed at Luke and expecting their first baby. Tim Stevens and his wife are expecting twins and are on their way to Kadena afterTyndall to fly the mightyEagle. Hopefully,they’llget to meet KevinJanasiewicz andhiswife, Laura (Harding), in Kadena. Kadenawill be Kevin’s second operational F-15C tour.

Jason “JW" Simmons

PSC 2, Box 7077

APO AE 09012

Email: Simmons@HotPop.com

Jason.Simmons@Ramstein.af.mil

UnitedWe Stand: Class of2000 is stillsupporting one another as ShawnThomas and wife,Valarie, welcomed Paul Gabriel, wife, Lenetta (Banks ’01), and son Isaiah to Montgomery, AL. Paulis assumingduties as ChiefoftheAirForce NetworkOperations SecurityCenter, Operations Support Branch.Shawn relinquished those duties to re-establish dominance on the gridiron at our beloved USAFA as a football coach at the AFA Prep School. I’m sure Shawn is goingto do greatthingswith the Huskies. AndIthinkheopenedup betterthan I could have. Yes, class spirit and “supporting our classmates” is still strong. Here at Ramstein I’m alwaysrunninginto classmateslike Matt Graham and Bridget (Blanco) Graham, but more so Matt Scott, as we both hit some ofthe same pubs. And recently, Summer Koons, as she isTDYfor comm support to the FALCONERweapon system.

Speakingoffolks we haven’theard from in awhile, Dave Paolillo didn’t give up on getting his commission. He wound up commissioninglate in June of 2003, and isworking as an F/A-22 Maintenance Officer atTyndall. Dave relays that he still feels like a part ofour class. I thinkthat speaksvolumes about our class; we were alwaysaccepting and very relaxed, but certainlyhave hidden heroes. I’d like to highlight some ofthe folks I heard back from downrange, doingjustthat. Onemonthaftercompletingfourmonths inKabul, Sam Deaton hasmovedfromHanscomandbecamethecommunicationsflightcommander at litde-known MoronAB near Sevilla (a.k.a. Seville) in sunnysouthern Spain. He delayedseparatingforthis new tour and is lovinglife there as a single man again. Sam says it’s warm, sunny, an hour from the beach or mountains, the locals are friendly (especially the “mujeres”), and he’s relearning all ofthe Spanishforgotten afterVicecomadoro Felici’s (ArgentineAF) class at USAFA. He recently ran into BusterAscol and MaliaDolfinger at the end ofAprilwhile theystoppedbyforgas. Sam’s offeringvisits to his paradise and is behappyto host any summer travelers or those passingthrough here to/from the desert, look him up on the GAL or call DSN 314-722-8201.

Sabre Society Donors

While atAltus, Marycaughtglimpses ofand/orbrief conversations with Paul Adams, Casey Guerrero, Mark Jones, Sarah Lynch,Tobin McKearin and Dylan Newman. All were atAltusfor some typeoftraining. Tobin flies C-17s at Charleston and Dylan got accepted into CCT. While skiing in Breckenridge, she ran into Jen (Schiessler) Fuller, who recentlygot married and PCSed to Little Rock. Jen flies C-130s. Speaking ofFullers, Scott Fuller andhiswifeTrish (Mahon) are nowstationedinD.C. Scott isworkingcommunicationsissuesfor one of the intelligenceagencies andTrish is a new mom. Jaime (Ciesielski) andMike McGuire are still enjoyinglife in Hawaii. Mike separated and is now an associate pastor at the New Hope Christian Fellowship Church. Jaime will soon separate from theAF and is expecting a second child very soon.

Brett Paradis has separated from theAF and is nowworkingwith his dad in Arizona. Both Cory (Gadus) and Ed Frazier are now weapons instructors in the new intelweapons sensor course at Nellis. Cory also did a stint onWheel ofFortune. Jon (’98) andAmanda (Blair) Powell have both separated from theAF and are nowreal estate agents up inAlaska. Amandarecentlyhad a baby boy. TracyStrickland is an engineer in the U.S. Army and is hoping to crosstraininto becoming a helicopterpilot. She is gettingready to deploy to Iraq this summer-fall. Thankyou Mary for all the news—without it this would have been a prettyshort article!

As for me personally, I ran into Shawn Hatch down at Nellis. He is in the ArmyflyingKiowaWarriors, andjustgotbackfrom hisyear in Iraq. Also at Nellis I bumped into formerThe Price is Right showcase showdown winner Ronnie Hawkins. He was at jeep school, his penance for three greatyears flying theworld’s premierfighter atAviano. A correction to my previous artide, Sean Neitzke did not get intoWeaponsSchool buthe didnail down a nice job at Nellis doing OT&E. I thinkhe’s the Snacko, but he still gets to wear the fancypatches and act coolin theNellis O Club. GregBarasch, JeremyWiehrich and Scott Nichols (as predicted) did get accepted to the schoolhouse for F16s/ 15s/HH-60s, respectively. Congratulations gents.

Finally, you should have all receivedAOG ballots in the mail. Please take a minute to read it and cast yourvotes. Up forboard nominations: ’99ers Rob Mishev and Paul Ferguson. Are you kiddingme? The class of’99 could have two seats on the board? I’d like to see an amendment for a spiritjerseybuyback.... God bless and until next time-James.

Please send us your new address today.

www.usafa.org

Joy (Harwood) Shuck andJeffShuck (’99) are PCSingfrom McGuire to Travis AFB at the end ofAugust to fly KC-10s. Right now they’redeployedtogether at A1 DhafraAB for eightweeks. David Wittis stillwith the 39thAS at DyessAFB, TX, alongwith BuckHogdkinson, Laura Schmutzer (Powell) Scott Davis, Matt Puckett andJake Lukens. They are currentlyhome from the desert buttrainingintenselybefore headingbackthere forthe summer.

BradSalmiandAbbyAlbert’s Here crewin the desert

Brad Salmisends sunnyandsandygreetingsfromthe desert. HeandAbby Albert deployed together as C-130 pilot and copilot. Abby’s been working diligendy on her master’s.Brad’s desertmustache was decidedly“creepy” and had to go. Looking at the picture I completelydisagree. Brad andAbbyflew Senator Lieberman (theironlyreal “significant” event so far) out ofBaghdad. Everytime theyeat at the chowhall there’s another ’00 reunion—runninginto the likes ofBryan Raridon, Jason Goldberg, Bud Fuji-Takamoto, and Miguel Rivera and more! All flyingthere.Also seen in DCUs is Lauren Maher-Dycus working as an exec. Bradjustgot orders to Laughlin to flytheT-6 and has been in contact with Paul Wursterwho has already arrived to flythe T-38. Jason emailed and said his wife, Brooke, and he are expectingthe birthoftheir first child in July.

And on the note ofnewfamilymembers, Rob Brooks’ wife, Jenny, gavebirth to theirfirstbaby on 18April:BenjaminEdwardBrooks. They’re all doingwell as theylearn to adjust to much less sleep.

Anotherhero inher own way, Brooke (Effland) Rillos separatedinMayand is excited tospendsomequalitytimeraisingherandMattRillos two adorable boys, Joshua and Caleb, for a little while. Matt is at the Space and Mission Systems Center at LosAngelesAFB and is separating as well.

Ann (Hatley) Redd just finished up her second year oflaw school at the UniversityofArizona. She is spending the summer in D.C., interning at DoD IG, Investigations of Senior Officials. You might see Hans Anker or Ben Matthews on a satellite broadcast. They’re both atAFIT as instructors in the Civil Engineer school.

DavidAdamson and Susan (Murphy) Adamson are finishing their last respective C-130 and B-1 tours in sandboxbeforePCSing to Pensacola at the end ofthe summer. Susan saw folks out therelike Ryan Romano andJavin Peterson flyingKC- 135s and ran into Dan Hoadley who’s flying B-52s out there now.

JRSmithisfinishingup his tour as aT-37 FAIP at Columbus andwillbe leavingin thewinter to flytheA-10. ChrisTodaro and Brian Knaufare also finishing up theirFAIP tours in the tweet. Brian has alreadyleft to flytheF-15C andChriswillbe leaving later in the year to fly the F-16. CliffFlowers is currently working to secure the computer network at USSTRATCOM HQ at Offutt AFB, NE. His wife, Dara (Kjarum) Flowers is spendingherdays (and some nights) working in the MPF as the ChiefofRelocations and Employments. They are gettingreadyto celebrate their 5th weddinganniversary on 17 Jun; Cliffis still trying to figure out howhe landed someone so far out ofhis league!

None Yet

Sabre Society Donors

Russ Magazinergotmarriedbackin Septof’04 to Lauren (Levine) Magaziner. He separatedfromactive duty on 6 May05, andistrying to finishhis mechPhD dissertation over the summer, andwill start lawschool at Indiana Universityin August to be a patent attorney. Lauren will be attempting a math PhD at IU. William Swan, wife Harmony, and baby Savannah are spending the time in Alberta, Canada. Willisintheprocess ofcompletingthelatterhalfofhismaster’s degree in Space Studies.

That’s it for now. As I said in the email, I’ve re-stood up our websiteand am prepared to make it a site thatyou want to check out at least once a month. If you’dlike to have a USAFA2000.com email address,justlet me know. I’m also updating the email list. Please send me your addresses. Until next time, let’s have a great summer. It’s going to be super busy so be sure to spend some qualitytime with friends or family.

Ohyeah, almost forgot, what are you doingJason? I’m stillkicking around Europewhile being stationed at Ramstein. This year’s ski season was terrific; skiing theAlps has been great. I spent about 20 days on the slopes thiswinter and have switched out skis for botdes ofwine and touring, meanwhileworking60hrs+ a week as Comm forIntel on the SENTINELweapon system. Okay, until next time, I’ll close out as Shawn opened, “Two Grand, UnitedWe Stand!”

Faith Dunn (Flitchcock)

203 Seaton Circle Montgomery, AL 36116

Faith.Dunn@gunter.af.mil

Congratulations '01 ers on yourpromotion to Captain! I knowthatpayraise is burning a hole in everyone’s pockets! Here’s our updates: StacyBoggs is leavingGermany in Mayand after some time at home will be moving to Los Angeleswhere she’llbe theTriCare and PatientAdmin Chief. She’llbe roomies with Tara Copas out there and is looking forward to catching up with Eva Sanchez, Sam Troge, and Rosie Costellowho are also stationed out there. She also told me there are 14 ofus now at Spangdahlem: Mike Cumberworth, Gerry Ferdinand, Tom McCaleb, Matt Reynolds,JoeyGaona, CherylJohnston, Dono Kneuer, Tom Kanewski, Joe Markowski, Chauncy Krol, Tony Metters, Margaret Becker, and BryanJandorf.

None Yet

Sabre Society Donors

Aubrey (Rooney) Ireland gave me a greatupdate on lots of people: Mike Pontius is engaged to a girl named Meredith andthey’regettingmarriedOct8thin Louisiana. MarkLandez is getting married June 4th in SanAntonio. JennyGlomb is getting married to Bert Giovanetti in August back in her hometown ofPittsburgh. Amy(Hultin) GlissonandWes moved out to D.C. in Sept. Wesis deploying 15 Mayforthe 120-daycycle to Afghanistan. Amymet up with Erin Van Oosten who’s at Andrews. Nick DiCapua is TDY to Eielson fromKoreaforthe CopeThunderexercise - also flyingA-10s with him in Korea are RyanHayde andJennyScheckandKelii Chockis there flyingF-16s. Jenny, Hayde and Nick are due to go to Eielson sometime next year - Jenny’supgrading to flight lead soon. Ryan Finnan is headed to Dayton, OH for the next five years to do his orthopedic surgeon residency at MiamiValleyHospital. Also out ofmedschool, Brandon PropergotsurgeryandAndyMahlin gotorthopedie. ChrissyCompton has been accepted to a couple oflawschools andwill be headed to one ofthem sometime in the nextyear. LisaVice graduates from Intel school in May and is headed to Moodywhere she’ll get to do some cool stufflikeAirborne, SERE, andcounter-terrorismtraining. Erica Harris is atlaw school in Iowa. Ana Ortega is headed home to Hurlburt after a deployment to the sandbox. Brian Ross and hiswife, Robyn, willbe celebratingtheirsecond

weddinganniversaryinAugustright about the time theywillwelcome their first child - a babyboy. Kristi (Delcour) Contardo alsojust wrote us to let us knowshe gave birth to a beautiful babygirl - Madison Paige - on April 22nd!

Kristi Delcour Contardo andMadi

Steph Soltis wrote me about a recent outingshe, Colleen (French) Crabtree andNancy (Rosenow) BadgetttooktoTaos, NM inJanuary. NancyandColleen tookaT-1 cross-countryto Santa Fe. Nancy’shusband, Drew, brought aT-6 up (they are all FAIPs atLaughlin). Colleen’s husband, Scott (‘98) drove over from CannonAFBwhereheisflyingF- 16s, andStephdroveup fromAltuswhereshe was attending C-17 aircraft commander school. Steph has finished all ofher certificationsforAircraftCommander. DJPalagiis atACschoolnowand Lauren (Wagner) Palagi is going in a couple months. Bryan Baileyfinished a couple months aheadofme andhas alreadygone out incommand a fewtimes.

JasonMcFeatersjustgotmarriedApril 12th to agirlnamedSarawho’s a DODDS kindergartenteacheratSpangdahlem. TheywillbePCSmginMaytoElmendorfAFB.

From leftare ToddWUliams (’01), Miranda Williams (’02-formerlyMiranda Baldwin), Sara andJason McFeaters.

Melanie (Bates) Presuto is atKirtlandand sees some classmates everynowand then come throughtheFSO course attheSafetyCenterwheresheteachesclasses on BASH. Sheand Dax are gearingup to race some triathlonsandwe’recelebrating their first anniversaryin May in Rome, Florence, and Sienna! She is also applyingforthe DoctoralPhysicalTherapyprogram this fall - goodluckMel!

There are a lotofweddingscoming up fordie oldWolfpackgang: Jim Schiess is engaged - he’s flying F-15s at Elmendorf. Ian Swayze is getting married in June in Pennsylvania. Mark Lennon ishaving a bigweddingreceptionwithhis new wife, Suwon, in St Chuck, MN over the July 4th weekend. Givey “Stein” Kochanowski isgettingmarried inAugust inAlaska, and Brent Greer is getting married the followingweekend in Olympia, WA. Jason Feuring is back to Davis-Monthanafterhis deployment and gettingmarried inPhoenixinJan 06. These girls must be a good group ofwomen to put up with these guys for the rest oftheirlives! Rounding out the singlestable isJeffFeuringandBrent “Stagger Bak. Jeffis sightseeingthe AOR - traveling around Iraq andAfghanistan reviewing and inspecting all the special ops budgetoperations. He’sjustpast the halfwaymark ofhis five months out there. Brentis at Lakenheath flyingF15s and stillwon’t tell us where his call-sign came from.

ColleenFrench Crabtree, StephSoltisandNancyRosenowBadgettin Taos,NM.

Mike Dunn and I are doinggreat. We are still at Gunter inAlabama - Kurt Martinsonjust moved here fromAFIT - he’sworking atAirUniversity at Maxwell and lives in our complex so we’ve been chilling out with him. Mike finishes up his MBAthisAugust and I am still going to nursingschool—planning to get out after our five is up. Well be going to HollyAdamsAnnual Memorial GolfTournament in June. The tourneythis year is on June 24th at the Forrest CrossingGolfCourse in Franklin, TN. Ifanyone wants anymore information, please contact me andIwillhelp out anywayI can. We’re gearingup for a lot of travelingthisyear-we’regoingto manyoftheWolfpackweddings andalsojust returned from New Orleans for the Jazz Fest and are going toVegas over our Capt-promotion weekend - maybewe’ll run into some ’01 ers at the slots!

Hope thisfindsyou allwell and pleasekeep the updatescoming. Faith

Tony Carson

466 Avenue D Dyess AFB, TX 79606 anthony.carson@dyess.af.mil

Class Website: www.usafa02.org

Class of2002,

Springof2005 ishere andtheglobal war on terror continues. Members ofthe Class of2002 have been supportingand engagingin operations worldwide. Congratulations go out to MarkHanson, DeputyChiefofPublicAffairs and ChiefofMedia Relations ofthe 43rd AirliftWing at PopeAFB. He was recently named Wing StaffAgency CGO ofthe quarter. He also participated in the WingmanDay” 5-kilometer run at PopeAFB where he finished 1 st place.

Ifyouhave anyupdates for the class please let me know. I can be reached at the email listed above. Please include in theheadline “ForCheckpoints” or something to that effect. Everyone take it easy.

Richard Giles Whiting, Jr.

45 Raymond St. Allston, MA 02134 gileswhiting@hotmail.com

None Yet

Sabre Society Donors

was re-suppliedweeklyby a C-130, Tim would travel out with four or five others in a fewSUVs usuallyintoparts ofEthiopia, to build andre-buildschools and clinics. Tim was often the group’s“commander,” thoughhe was officially serving in the role of engineer. A contracting officer was additionallyalwayspresent and infantryofficers accompanied for force protection. A translator was also one ofthe group’s members.

None Yet

Sabre Society Donors

Over the four months Tim oversaw five school projects and seven clinic projects. The actualworkers were contractors hired at the site that Tim was responsible for paying. While communication was fairlyeasyfromhome base, the group was onlycontactable via satellite phone while they were involved inprojects. Timmentionedthatoftenhis team would showup in a town to do a project and there had been no communication pertaining to their arrival. “We’dwalk into these places and the entire town would come out and basically surround us; it was prettyinteresting. Overall, Tim said, “the people were prettyfriendlytoAmericans and we were not a target;yetthere were some skirmishes thattookplaceprettyclose to us.

These situationsled to Timreceivingthenickname and tide “Ground Forces Commander.” DanWarner on hiswayto workwithRed Horse inAfghanistan met upwithTim forabout aweekinAfrica. Tim also mentioned thathewasn’t able to work-outmuchwhile in the fieldbutthathe’s makingup forit now that he’s backstateside.

Breezy Heddinger

Home: (325) 473-5007

Cell: (719) 213-3205

windyshort@aol.com

(No Sabre Society Members Yet)

(Editor’s Note: We did not receive an inputfrom Breezyfor this edition.)

Class Scribe Needed.

Any member of the Class of '05 who wishes to be the class scrbe should contact the class president and the class news editor at Tom.Kroboth@usafa.af.mil.

A short update as I haven’t heard from many ofyou concerningyour life’s activities. Ifyou would like for something to be mentioned/published in Checkpointsplease send me an email at the address above.

Before I get into the class news I’d like to encourage all ofyou to educate yourselfand vote in the upcomingAOG election. I know we have all been barragedwith emailsfrom different groups thathave a stakein the electionbut please take some time to read the gist ofthese andvote as you are persuaded. Thanks. On to the class news...

Tom Tauer and JanetTauer (Modell) were married on 27 Nov 2004 in San Diego, CA. In attendance were David Breuer Mike Strasser, JamisonRichart, Eric Carlson, Matt Burniston, Jason Furcron, Mike Solowiow, Susan Doyle, Staci Cotner andAshleyRobinson. Janet is currently a Section Commander at MoodyAFB, GA. Tom graduated as a DGfrom ENJJPT and is going to flythe F-16 at LukeAFB, AZ.

Graduate Member use

ofthe

Golf Course

Th^ following procedures have been arranged by the AOG for graduate member to play golf at the Academy’s Eisenhower Golf Course.

Graduates with military ID: Call (719) 333-3456 no more than 72 hours in advance to follow the same reservation rules applicable to active-duty personnel not stationed at the Academy and retirees.

Green fees are $22. Reciprocal privileges are in effect for active-duty graduates who have annual memberships at other Air Force courses. Golf cart fees are $11 perperson.

Non-retired, non-active duty graduate AOG members: The AOG is allocated eight tee times per month (Tee times will be 10 a.m. or later).

For the “real-world/mission” element ofthis update we have Tim Grady. Timhasjust come backfrom close to five months inAfrica, primarilyEthiopia near the boarder ofSomalia and Djibouti. As Tim describes it this was basicallythe humanitarian arm ofthe DoD in action. Based out ofDjibouti,which

Visit the NEWAOG Web Site

www.usafa.org

Please update your address now.

Graduate AOG members whodo not have a military ID card may reserve these tee times by contading Steve Knight at (719) 472-0300 or steve.knight@usafa.af.mil. He will contad the golf course and notify you of the specific date and tee time reserved. Graduate AOG members may schedule only one tee time per month to ensure all eligible graduate members have an opportunity to play golf. If by the 25th of each month the eight tee times have not been reserved, a graduate member may schedule a second tee time. Green fees are $55 and golf cart fees are $11 per person.

World record altitude, speed, range performance, award-winning reliability and product support, the best warranty in special mission aviation and a long heritage of proven experience have made Gulfstream the special missions aircraft of choice for world leaders since the 1960’s.

To learn more, call Buddy Sams, Senior Vice President, Government Programs at 703-276-95 00 or visit us at www.gulfstream.com.

Rusinak Real Estate