Checkpoints - March 2017

SPACEBOUND Fischer ’96 set to join international team on Space Station

AOG USAFA ALUMNI MAGAZINE l MARCH 2017

USE THE CREDIT CARD THAT SUPPORTS THE AOG.

USAA Bank is proud to offer members ways to support organizations like the AOG. You can also benefit from great rewards, competitive rates, and USAA’s legendary customer service. Plus, now you can extend your support by redeeming your rewards points for a donation to the AOG.

APPLY TODAY. usaa.com/aogvisa or 888-957-4232 USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its affiliates. USAA products are available only in those jurisdictions where USAA is authorized to sell them.

Use of the term “member” or “membership” does not convey any eligibility rights for auto and property insurance products, or legal or ownership rights in USAA. Membership eligibility and product restrictions apply and are subject to change. Purchase of a product other than USAA auto or property insurance, or purchase of an insurance policy offered through the USAA Insurance Agency, does not establish eligibility for, or membership in, USAA property and casualty insurance companies. The AOG receives financial support from USAA for this sponsorship.

This credit card program is issued by USAA Savings Bank, Member FDIC. © 2016 USAA. 232407-0916

March 2017 FEATURES

Find the Falcon See details on p. 12

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Transporting Our Nation’s Top Leaders The 89th Airlift Wing has a storied history of flying Air Force One and providing transport to the nation’s top military and civilian leaders. USAFA graduates continue to play an integral role in that important mission. Checkpoints traveled to Joint Base Andrews to catch up with several grads who are stationed there.

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1971 Graduate Helps Donald Trump Make History After serving as co-chair of the 2016 presidential campaign of Donald Trump, Sam Clovis ‘71 is now assigned to the Department of Agriculture as a White House advisor and policy liaison.

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Grad Part of Next ISS Mission Jack Fischer ‘96 is heading to the International Space Station in April and willl be part of a six-month mission. It’s the fulfillment of a lifelong dream for him.

THE FLIGHT LINE 4 6 8

CEO Update Chairman’s Journal The Hangar AOG updates, your feedback, news and fun.

Letters, Check Ins, and more p. 8 Checkpoints Challenge p. 12 An updated staff directory p. 14 News from USAFA and grads p. 16 Air Gardens restoration approaches p. 20 USAFA Endowment celebrates a decade of giving p. 24 Long Blue Ladle p. 26

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Roll Call Heritage and graduate profiles.

2016 Distinguished Graduates set to be honored April 7 p. 54 Five USAFA grads honored with Young Alumni Excellence Award p. 72 KAFA radio station beginnings p. 76 USAFA Athletics Hall of Fame chooses its sixth inductee class p. 80 Ladies & Gents volunteers represent grad community at USAFA funerals p. 82 Volunteer Cadet Chapel docent program becomes a big help p. 86 Falcon Fitness column p. 90

97 The Terrazzo Cadet life and the latest from the Academy.

Today’s cadets enjoy more options p. 92 Cadet Question p. 96 98 Gone But Not Forgotten 105 Class News 152 Final Approach

_____________________________________________________ On the Cover United States Air Force Academy graduate Jack Fischer ‘96 has been in training for two years in preparation for his six-month stint on the International Space Station.

Pictured on the cover, he trains inside the SSATA Chamber while in his spacesuit.

(Photo by NASA photographer James Blair) Checkpoints Online The 2017 National Character and Leadership Symposium inspires and educates the Cadet Wing; Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Short honored at dedication ceremony; Cadets play chauffeur to Medal of Honor recipients; Grads play important role at USAFCENT; AOG communications team honored for excellence.

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CEO UPDATE 4 · usafa.org

Times Change

BY WILLIAM “T” THOMPSON ‘73, AOG PRESIDENT AND CEO

Fellow members, As I sit uncomfortably to write this update, I am recovering from a total knee replacement I received a few weeks ago from my classmate and best friend Dr. “O” Mitchell ’73. The operation was successful. The recovery has been a bear!

I must admit that I underestimated the gravity of the process. I assumed that, because I was in pretty good shape and worked out regularly, the recovery would be pretty manageable. I was wrong. It has called for discipline, focus and acceptance of a high degree of pain. It has required me to reach deep and call on some of the very qualities that got me through BCT and Doolie year eons ago.

It is truly amazing how the discipline, the focus and the attitude of being able to get through anything that we were taught at the Academy stays with you over your entire life.

Those qualities have helped us weather professional challenges and work through personal tribulations, and, for most of us, have served as the foundation for whatever degree of success we have been fortunate enough to achieve. Even now, as I fight for every degree of range of motion in bending my leg, I am driven by the timeless qualities learned as a cadet some 48 years ago. And the good news is that, despite the personal challenge, I am showing slow but consistent progress.

Let me use this as a segue to note that there is an article going around some segments of the graduate community entitled “The United States Air Force Academy Doesn’t Train Warriors Anymore.” Written by L. Todd Wood ’86, he reflects on coming back for his 30th reunion this past October and focuses on how much the Academy has changed.

While there are some minor factual inaccuracies in the article, and the author reaches some conclusions that are not supported by a development of facts, to be fair, many of his observations are valid. Indeed, the place has changed and I

expect it is human nature to compare and feel nostalgic about how things were at the Academy when we attended. But time passes — which is the very definition of change — so that is to be expected.

I spoke to the Firstie class in early December and one of the things we spoke about was change. Many things have changed over the years, yet because of who we are, many things are the same. I asked, “Are you still taking aero and astro? Have you pulled all-nighters getting your room ready for inspection, studying for a GR or trying to get a project in on time?

Are you still standing SAMI inspections and marching in parades?” Without exception, every hand in F-1 went up in the affirmative.

So the real question becomes whether the changes that have occurred are good or bad; appropriate or inappropriate.

It is a question that I certainly have some personal opinions about but, quite honestly, I am not in a position to reach an informed conclusion.

Yes, I’m at the Academy almost every day and I spend time with permanent party and cadets regularly. Yet I am not immersed in the training curriculums and cannot speak to what cadets are being taught today. I do know that the rules of war and the world have changed since my days as a cadet during the Vietnam War. This was highlighted in the last issue of Checkpoints, which focused on the Academy’s extensive cyber efforts today. We live in a time when a nuclear reactor can be destroyed by a computer virus, when our national infrastructure is attacked daily by hordes of hackers, and when — according to Naval Academy grad and former presidential nominee, Senator John McCain and retired Air Force colonel and Senator Lindsey Graham — our last election process, indeed the very under-

pinnings of our democracy, was attacked and influenced by Russia. Yes, both the times and the rules have changed.

I recall attending the Prep School graduation a couple of years ago with my good friend, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Jay Kelley ’64, president of the Falcon Foundation. As the preppies crossed the stage to receive their certificates, I noted two cadets in succession who were barely 5 feet tall, if that. Well, Jay and I are both over 6 feet tall and in our days as cadets, neither of these kids would have met the height requirement. Of course, a major reason for our height requirement was the ability to fit into a cockpit. Jay and I commented on how they would not have met the physical prerequisites to become cadets in our time, yet today they may end up being two of our most fierce cyber warriors. Who knows? For sure, we need much more than F-35 drivers in today’s Air Force.

My final thoughts as I come to a close: Todd mentioned in his article that it had been a long time since he had visited his alma mater and, with some trepidation, had decided to come back for his 30th reunion. It would be reasonable to assume that given his long hiatus, the changes that have occurred over the years would appear to be quite stark and glaring.

Yet the Front Range has become the number one retirement area for our grads and many are very active with the Academy and cadets. Some are adjunct professors, and others facilitators for leadership seminars. Our grads are involved with In-processing, basic cadet honor lessons and my class has been the Flagship Sponsor and very involved with National Character and Leadership Symposium (NCLS). As such, opinions about the changes at the Academy are varied and often directly related to the amount of time spent at the institution and the amount of knowledge of the various programs that cadets are involved in. I would also guess that some members of the classes of ’59, ’60, ’61 and ’62 may have had similar feelings about the changes in place for the Class of ’86 when witnessed during their reunion visits. Who knows, but from my experience that’s generally how some members of the older classes think regarding the current status of USAFA. It’s just human nature.

GO FALCONS!!!

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1602_Checkpoints (2016).indd 1

Leading The Situational Awareness Revolution

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Checkpoints · March 2017 · 5

CHAIRMAN’S JOURNAL 6 · usafa.org

BY BRIG. GEN. (RET.) ROGER CARLETON ‘67

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t the outset, let me thank all the graduates who voted in the recent election for five new directors to fill vacant positions on your AOG Board, as well as on the proposed bylaw changes. I write this not knowing the results due to the timing of the Checkpoints printing deadlines.

However, being an eternal optimist and based on feedback from class and chapter presidents, I am confident that (1) we will surpass the 25 percent threshold for membership voting and (2) that a majority of those voting will approve the proposed bylaw changes.

Approval will permit the AOG and USAFA Endowment to begin the search for a single chief executive officer to run the alumni and development functions while leading an integrated staff.

Some may still ask, “Why is this important?” I believe the answer can be found by examining many universities and our sister service academies. The one common thread in successful organizations is common senior management. Each institution has adopted, with minor variations, the same basic organizational structure. One individual – the president and CEO – oversees the alumni and development functions that support the institution.

The alumni function was the friend raiser while the development function was the fund-raiser. Looked at it in a slightly different way, the development function generates revenue while the alumni function offers programs and services to graduates connecting them back to the institution.

Some alumni organizations can generate enough revenue to cover costs. However, that is not the situation with your AOG. Now, we are a cost center that requires an infusion of funds to close the gap between our costs and revenue. The AOG and Endowment will also encounter this situation under the single CEO. There will be competing demands within the new structure for funds. The Endowment needs to grow staff while the AOG attempts to reduce its dependency on market investment returns.

The Joint Finance Committee, co-chaired by the treasurers of each board, will be critical to balancing these competing demands.

In addition to the membership voting on bylaw changes, you also selected five new graduates to fill board vacancies.

Mike Torreano ’70, Drew Miller ’80 and Larry Fariss ’75 are completing four years of service as directors. Mike chaired the Audit Committee and served on the Governance and Heritage

committees. Mike’s passion for preserving our heritage was always evident. Drew was a key member of both the Audit and Finance and Investment committees. He was instrumental in convincing the Board and AOG staff to develop a mentoring program. Larry served on the Audit committee. Additionally, he was the liaison to USAFA’s Athletic Department and was a member of the task force for CEO compensation. Building rapport with the athletic director will pay dividends in the future.

Two appointed directors’ — Bill Looney ’72 and Cathy McClain ’82 — terms expire. All the directors appreciate Bill’s wise counsel on the difficult issues. He served on the Heritage and Traditions committee. Cathy chaired the AOG/USAFA Distinguished Graduate committee and served on the Governance committee.

Per our bylaws, Vic Andrews ’66 and yours truly are term limited, so our active involvement ends May 5, 2017, when the new directors are installed. Vic’s portfolio is huge. As vice chair, he also chairs the important Governance committee. Vic is a member of the compensation task force for our CEO. Last, but certainly not least, Vic led the AOG team that developed the Single CEO Agreement. I can attest that this last duty consumed many hours of painstaking effort, as he was the individual who served as “document control officer” for the many iterations of the agreement.

These six directors deserve your thanks for a job well done.

As for myself, I’d like to express my gratitude to all the directors with whom I have served — not just those departing the AOG Board — for their perseverance and hard work during my tenure.

Certainly as the Board developed policies, it was the AOG staff’s responsibility to implement actions from broad policy direction.

Kudos to Gary Howe ’69; Alton Parrish; Marty Marcolongo ’88; Bob McAllister; Corrie Grubbs; and, of course, the AOG’s President and CEO, T. Thompson ’73. They have really made a positive difference for the graduate community and the Air Force Academy.

As for me, it has been a pleasure to serve. We’ve accomplished a lot, but there is still much work to be done. I know the next board will continue to serve the membership well as the AOG and Endowment begin closer collaboration.

In closing: GO FALCONS!

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Checkpoints · March 2016 · 7

STATE OF MIND

THE HANGAR

Feedback, insight and fun from Falcon Nation

Racial Bias Exists I was very disappointed by Michael Simonelli’s letter to the editor — “Facing threats,” Checkpoints, December 2016.

He seems to be unaware that there is a long and welldocumented history of police officers exhibiting bias in their treatment of black citizens as compared to white citizens that has often resulted in the mistreatment of blacks by the police.

It is very difficult to attempt to reduce the harmful effects of this bias when people like Michael Simonelli ’93 refuse to admit that the problem even exists.

Perhaps Checkpoints should ask a member of the faculty to write an article on how racial bias exists even in those who think they have none, and how this bias influences behavior in ways that can be extremely harmful.

— Price Bingham, Class of 1966

The Early Days I am now 90 years old and therefore hoped I could find a few other men who were with me at the Academy when it was founded. Some of the graduates of the first classes might remember me. Some of them visited Brussels when I was a one-star general there.

I left West Point as an officer in 1949 wearing my Air Force uniform, although at that time it was still Army Air Corps. I went through flight training and then served as flight instructor for one full year. Then we were pulled out and sent to the Korean War. I flew 32 missions before returning to the States.

In 1953, as a captain, I went to Colorado to help select the name “United States Air Force” for the new service we were starting up, and to help establish the new Air Force Academy. I also set up the ground school for flight training for the Academy at Lowry AFB and then Colorado Springs.

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My own assignment was the first year of the cadet’s life.

I went to Harvard to complete my Ph.D. Then I returned to the Academy as a major, my family living in Pine Valley, and I was appointed assistant professor of political science. Since I was outstanding in fencing, I gathered the fencing team and we won the Western Division of the NCAA. In 1963, I was sent to Washington, D.C., to serve as liaison between the Secretary of Defense and the White House. I was sent to the War College, now called National Defense University, in 1965 for one year, and then on to the Pentagon.

In 1973, I became a brigadier general and was sent to be the military assistant to the Ambassador to NATO and Foreign Affairs, Donald Rumsfeld, in Brussels, Belgium.

I returned to the United States in 1975 as director of Europe and NATO for the Defense Department. I retired in 1981 and went to work on projects to improve national defense weapons standardization at NATO. —Richard C. Bowman Major General, Retired, USAF (marymillikin@hotmail.com)

Race Relations Revisited Thank you for the very timely article, Mr. Holmquist, for our troubling racial climate (“We’re All in this Together,” Checkpoints, September 2016). Thank you for interviewing Dr. Williams ‘91 and writing about it.

Williams’ remarks brought back memories of race relations training classes that my instructors and I taught (U-Tapao Thailand) in the early 1970s. We heard similar stories to those experienced by Dr. Williams from minorities attending class — in brief, of being judged by the color of their skin rather than by content of character (quoting Rev. King).

In classes where students needed more, we played portions of a lecture that civil rights activist Dick Gregory delivered at the Air Force Academy to the Cadet Wing in January 1972. I’ve made those lecture portions — many of which are timely even today — available to the Class of 1970 SEA Project at Doolittle Hall. Some kind staff person there converted my cassette to a CD. For interested readers, plans are to have it available at http://70seapavilion.com, according to Dick Raushkolb ’70. (It “should appear there but we can’t promise when.”)

Probably the entire lecture is available somewhere in the USAFA archives of Arnold Hall events.

— John “JC” Miller, Class of 1969

CHECK IN WITH CHECKPOINTS

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STATE OF MIND

Do you enjoy the enriched experience of Checkpoints Online?

Go green and defer shipment of the print edition by emailing editor@aogusafa.org.

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A. John Kolkebeck ’80 is pictured in front of the Naritasan

Shinshoji Temple near Tokyo, Japan, with the June 2016 Checkpoints issue (featuring classmate Tamara Senz on the cover).

B. Class of 1980 graduates (left to right) Scott Soto, Las Vegas, New Mexico; Jon Tovani, Atlanta, Georgia, Glenn Rosenberger, Fort Worth, Texas, were in Destin, Florida, for their annual adventure and get-together. This time they went deep sea fishing in April 2016. C. (From left) Harry Calcutt, Jim Livingston and Gary Kito, all from the Class of 1972, are pictured in front of the 10th Mountain Division statue in Vail, Colorado, for the annual Vail lacrosse tournament, held in June-July 2016.

They report that Harry still plays.

Checkpoints · March 2016 · 9

CHECK IN WITH CHECKPOINTS

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D. Greg Zencey ’04 is pictured with his December 2015 issue of Checkpoints magazine near Neuschwanstein Castle in Fussen, Germany. The photo was taken during a family trip to Europe in June 2016. E. Chan Dickey ’70 of Covington, Georgia, stopped for a picture at the start of

the Peachtree Road Race, July 4, 2016, in Atlanta, GA. He was about to run (“OK, run and walk at this point in my life,” he adds) in his 40th Peachtree. “It may, or may not be my last one — next year will tell,” he notes. F. Lucy (Garcia) Ueda ’01 from O’Fallon, Illinois, took along her copy of the June 2016 Checkpoints magazine on her trip to Italy. She’s shown visiting the Colosseum in Rome this past summer. G. Fellow USAFA grads attended Lt. Col. (Ret.) Kimberly (Scott) Ford’s wedding (Class of 1990) on April 17, 2016, at the Seattle Museum of Flight.

The bride is pictured with the March 2016 issue of Checkpoints. Some of those in attendance were Col. Mike Bautista (’94), Maj. (Ret.) Kevin Hoppin (’90), Jesse Hayes (’85), Col. Shannon (Gregory) Yenchesky (’90), Maj. (Ret.) Yolandea Wood (’86), Col. Jacqui Marty (’90), Lt. Col. (Ret.) Allison (Trinklein) Sutter (96), Maj. (Ret.) Lee Hoggatt (’89), Lt. Col. (Ret.) Karen (Pastoret) Reiling (’89), Lt. Col. Som Chai Odom (’90), Jennifer (Mayers) Bautista (’96), Col. Eric Jenkins (’89), Lt. Col. Steve Scott (’90), Lt. Col. (Ret.) Cathy (Morgan) Kleifges (’90) and Dawn (Molzen) Ehresman (’90). Ford’s groom, Col. (Ret.) Jerry Ford, also recently retired from the USAF. H. Pictured with a copy of the December 2015 issue of Checkpoints are (left to right) USAFA 29ers Doug Wells ’85, Pat Jameson ’86, Vinnie Savino ’86 and Jan Tavrytzky ’86 at Park City, Utah. The picture was taken in February 2016 as part of the annual “Herd Migration” and ski trip started by Jameson and Tavrytzky more than 10 years ago. I. Dan Bloemer, ’80 took his June edition of Checkpoints magazine to the Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy. His 1980 classmates were pictured on the cover. He was on an overnight trip as an A330 pilot for American Airlines, and is based in Charlotte, N.C. J. Doug “Mush” Brower ’72 is pictured with Checkpoints magazine at Dutch Harbor, Unalaska in the Alaskan Aleutian Islands in July 2016. He’s standing in front of the old control tower. K. John ’76 and Jan Bowen of Granbury, TX, traveled to Qumran, Israel from Sept. 18-27, 2016. They toured the Holy Land with the “Footprints of God” pilgrimage from Banias (Caesarea Philippi) in the north, through the Sea of Galilee, Jerusalem, Qumran and the Dead Sea in the south. L. Ron Love ’69 shares his June 2016 issue of Checkpoints with some friendly seals while swimming off Palomino Island near Lima, Peru.

Learn how to check in with Checkpoints at usafa.org/checkpoints/interact.

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Checkpoints · March 2016 · 11

CHECKPOINTS CHALLENGE C O N T R A I L S C R O S S S W O R D

Find the Falcon

Across 5. _____ Gardens 6. Falcon handler 8. Type of Academy values 10. Integrity, ______, Excellence 12. Cadet Squadron 21 16. _____ Mach One 18. First grad to die in combat 19. Dance name 20. Miracle pilot

Down 1. B2-A 2. Library namesake 3. Cadet Squadron 40 4. First CSAF who was a grad 7. First grad to be superintendent 9. Aurora type 11. 2013 Exemplar 13. USAFA final product 14. USAFA AD 15. A cappella practice locale 17. Top medal

Locate the falcon hidden in the magazine and send its location — along with your name and contact information — directly to Jeff.Holmquist@aogusafa.org to be entered into a drawing for a $25 gift card at the AOG Gift Shop. Deadline for entry is April 30, 2017.

See answer key on page 88

And The Winner Is...

The winner of this quarter’s “Find the Falcon” contest is BJ Bjorklund. Class of ’70. He was one of about a dozen Association of Graduates members who successfully found the Falcon on page 85 of Checkpoints’ December 2016 edition.

The names were placed into a drawing for a $25 gift certificate to the AOG online and Doolittle Hall stores. Who will be this quarter’s winner?

Find the Falcon and you, too, can be entered into the March Checkpoints drawing!

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OFF WE GO INTO THE WILD BLUE YONDER, CLIMBING HIGH INTO THE SUN HERE THEY COME ZOOMING TO MEET OUR THUNDER AT ’EM BOYS, GIVE ’ER THE GUN! DOWN WE DIVE, SPOUTING OUR FLAMES FROM UNDER OFF WITH ONE HELLUVA ROAR! WE LIVE IN FAME OR GO DOWN IN FLAMES. HEY! NOTHING CAN STOP THE U.S. AIR FORCE! MINDS OF MEN FASHIONED A CRATE OF THUNDER SENT IT HIGH INTO THE BLUE HANDS OF MEN BLASTED THE WORLD A-SUNDER HOW THEY LIVED GOD ONLY KNEW! SOULS OF MEN DREAMING OF SKIES TO CONQUER GAVE US WINGS, EVER TO SOAR! WITH SCOUTS BEFORE AND BOMBERS GALORE. NOTHING CAN STOP THE U.S. AIR FORCE! HERE’S A TOAST TO THE HOST OF THOSE WHO LOVE THE VASTNESS OF THE SKY, TO A FRIEND WE SEND A MESSAGE OF HIS BROTHER MEN WHO FLY. WE DRINK TO THOSE WHO GAVE THEIR ALL OF OLD THEN DOWN WE ROAR TO SCORE THE RAINBOW’S POT OF GOLD. A TOAST TO THE HOST OF MEN WE BOAST, THE U.S. AIR FORCE! OFF WE GO INTO THE WILD SKY YONDER, KEEP THE WINGS LEVEL AND TRUE IF YOU’D LIVE TO BE A GREY-HAIRED WONDER KEEP THE NOSE OUT OF THE BLUE! FLYING MEN, GUARDING THE NATION’S BORDER, WE’LL BE THERE FOLLOWED BY MORE! IN ECHELON WE CARRY ON, HEY! NOTHING’LL STOP THE AIR FORCE! NOTHING’LL STOP THE U.S. AIR FORCE! OFF WE GO INTO THE WILD BLUE YONDER, CLIMBING HIGH INTO THE SUN HERE THEY COME ZOOMING TO MEET OUR THUNDER AT ’EM BOYS, GIVE ’ER THE GUN! DOWN WE DIVE, SPOUTING OUR FLAMES FROM UNDER OFF WITH ONE HELLUVA ROAR! WE LIVE IN FAME OR GO DOWN IN FLAMES. HEY! NOTHING CAN STOP THE U.S. AIR FORCE! MINDS OF MEN FASHIONED A CRATE OF THUNDER SENT IT HIGH INTO THE BLUE HANDS OF MEN BLASTED THE WORLD A-SUNDER HOW THEY LIVED GOD ONLY KNEW! SOULS OF MEN DREAMING OF SKIES TO CONQUER GAVE US WINGS, EVER TO SOAR! WITH SCOUTS BEFORE AND BOMBERS GALORE. NOTHING CAN STOP THE U.S. AIR FORCE! HERE’S A TOAST TO THE HOST OF THOSE WHO LOVE THE VASTNESS OF THE SKY, TO A FRIEND WE SEND A MESSAGE OF HIS BROTHER MEN WHO FLY. WE DRINK TO THOSE WHO GAVE THEIR ALL OF OLD THEN DOWN WE ROAR TO SCORE THE RAINBOW’S POT OF GOLD. A TOAST TO THE HOST OF MEN WE BOAST, THE U.S. AIR FORCE! OFF WE GO INTO THE WILD SKY YONDER, KEEP THE WINGS LEVEL AND TRUE IF YOU’D LIVE TO BE A GREY-HAIRED WONDER KEEP THE NOSE OUT OF THE BLUE! FLYING MEN, GUARDING THE NATION’S BORDER, WE’LL BE THERE FOLLOWED BY MORE! IN ECHELON WE CARRY ON, HEY! NOTHING’LL STOP THE AIR FORCE! NOTHING’LL STOP THE U.S. AIR FORCE! OFF WE GO INTO THE WILD BLUE YONDER, CLIMBING HIGH INTO THE SUN HERE THEY COME ZOOMING TO MEET OUR THUNDER AT ’EM BOYS, GIVE ’ER THE GUN! DOWN WE DIVE, SPOUTING OUR FLAMES FROM UNDER OFF WITH ONE HELLUVA ROAR! WE LIVE IN FAME OR GO DOWN IN FLAMES. HEY! NOTHING CAN STOP THE U.S. AIR FORCE! MINDS OF MEN FASHIONED A CRATE OF THUNDER SENT IT HIGH INTO THE BLUE HANDS OF MEN BLASTED THE WORLD A-SUNDER HOW THEY LIVED GOD ONLY KNEW! SOULS OF MEN DREAMING OF SKIES TO CONQUER GAVE US WINGS, EVER TO SOAR! WITH SCOUTS BEFORE AND BOMBERS GALORE. NOTHING CAN STOP THE U.S. AIR FORCE! HERE’S A TOAST TO THE HOST OF THOSE WHO LOVE THE VASTNESS OF THE SKY, TO

LEADERS ARE SHAPED

BY THE VALUES THEY EMBODY

As future academy graduates prepare for their military careers and beyond, support and advocacy is essential for their long-term success. Boeing is proud to partner with the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis with the shared goals of leadership development and engineering excellence. Together, we’re helping shape leaders of character to better serve our nation and the world.

Checkpoints · March 2016 · 13

THE ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES To email a staff member, use the first and last name. Example: Gary Howe | gary.howe@aogusafa.org 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475, (719) 472-0300

AOG Executive Office President & CEO William “T” Thompson ’73, ext. 101 (t.thompson@aogusafa.org) Chief Operating Officer Marty Marcolongo ’88, ext. 146 Executive Vice President Gary Howe ’69, ext. 107 History and Heritage Projects Officer Amanda Hess, ext. 103 Executive Assistant Emma Ross, ext. 106 Finance & Facility Management Sr. VP for Finance & Chief Financial Officer Alton Parrish, ext. 123 Accountant Joyce Love, ext. 110 Senior Accounting Clerk Janice Baca, ext. 111 Sr. Data Integrity Specialist John Rice, ext. 132 Data Integrity Specialist Murlea Vance, ext. 130 Facilities Superintendent Kenny D’Amico, ext. 155 Communications Sr. VP for Communications Bob McAllister, ext. 142 Creative Director Sarah Larrabee, ext. 144 Senior Editor Jeff Holmquist, ext. 143 Graphic Designer Eric Costello, ext. 149 Photography/Video Production Specialist Ryan Hall, ext. 140 Class News & Obituary Editor Tom Kroboth, ext. 133 Director of Web Communications Troy Surratt, ext. 125 Systems Administrator Albert Gilligan, ext. 124 Lead Programmer/Web Developer Toby Lortz, ext. 141 Senior Programmer/Systems Analyst Nick Johannsen, ext. 118 Help Desk Specialist Johnny Bollman, ext. 122 Assistant Editor Paul Henry ’67 Contributing Writer Steven Simon ‘77 Business Operations Sr. Vice President for Business Operations Corrie Grubbs, ext. 105 Director of Business Operations Beth Wade, ext. 134 Director of Business Programs Aphten Goldman, ext. 150

Marketing Coordinator Jeff MacLean, ext. 167 Business Programs Coordinator Nina Johnson, ext. 168 Alumni Affairs Managing Director of Alumni Affairs Michele Bergeman, ext. 136 Director of Membership Megan Bollman, ext. 108 Parent Programs Coordinator Bill Preston Constituent Programs Specialist Kelsey Glenner, ext. 100 Graduate Programs Specialist M.J. Kellenbence ‘80, ext. 139 Constituent Programs Technical Karina Ross, ext. 100 Doolittle Hall Events/Special Functions Director of Event Planning Daisy Hall, ext. 147 Constituent Events Specialist Heidi Paul, ext. 148 Reunion Specialist Sherry Cooper, ext. 138 Event Chaperone Carolyn Simon Customer Service and Merchandise Customer Service Supervisor Michele Cowan, ext. 151 Customer Service Representative Brandi Lortz, ext. 154 Merchandising Supervisor Jan Howard, ext. 153 Merchandising Representative Haley Goos, ext. 158 The Association of Graduates Board of Directors Stephen Mueller ’79 Board Chair Roger Carleton ’67 Drew Miller ’80 Vice Chair Vic Andrews ’66 Treasurer Jack Fry ’67 Will Gunn ’80 Wally Moorhead ’69 Cathy McClain ’82 Mike Torreano ’70 Tamra Rank ’83 William Looney ‘72 Kathleen Rock ’98 Larry Fariss ’75 Mark Rosenow ’03 Larry New ’76 CAS President Garry Dudley ’68

THE USAFA ENDOWMENT To email a staff member, use the first and last name. Example: Gina Simler | gina.simler@usafaendowment.org President & CEO Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Mark Volcheff ’75, ext. 201 Vice President, Development Jennifer Bateman, ext. 202 Executive Assistant Ruth Reichert, ext. 206 Chief Financial Officer Dennis Scruggs, ext. 203 Associate Vice President, Development Greg Knedler, ext. 224 Associate Vice President, Marketing, Communications & Donor Relations Jermaine Johnson, ext. 220 Director, Gift Planning Dale Zschoche, 719.238.7510 Director, Parent & Family Giving Jason Fox, 248-495-5162 Director, Stewardship and Donor Relations Diane McOmie, 713-702-4506

Major Gifts Officer Southeast Chris Brewer, 804.337.5767 Major Gifts Officer Midwest Randy Helms ‘79, 703.975.8782 Major Gifts Officer Northeast Vince Greco, 719-433-0230 Major Gifts Officer Northwest Matthew Hudson, 719-600-7655 Major Gifts Officer Southwest Jessica Kurrle, 949-395-3236 Major Gifts Officer Athletics Marc Nickell, 903-819-2827 Class Giving Officer Razelle Doherty, ext. 222 Gift Processing Coordinator Amanda Rickman, ext. 223 Gift Processing Coordinator Kimberley Wilson, ext. 227 Donor Stewardship Communications & Events Officer Gina Simler, ext. 240 Funds Manager & Special Projects Officer Kate Hutchison, ext. 200

Volume 45, Number 4 Checkpoints (ISSN 0274-7391) USPS 898-080 is published quarterly in March, June, September and December by the Association of Graduates, U.S. Air Force Academy. (Phone: 719-472-0300, DSN: 333-2067.

FAX: 719-333-4194, E-mail: editor@aogusafa.org.) A portion of your dues pays for your magazine subscription. Additional copies may be purchased for $2.50 each, plus $4.60 for shipping. Periodicals postage paid at the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo., and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Checkpoints, Association of Graduates, Doolittle Hall, 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475. The Editorial Board serves the Checkpoints mission by providing a top quality magazine to the Air Force Academy’s broader community. Together, the editor, VP of Communications, Executive VP and the AOG CEO collaborate to ensure that all articles meet the standards of excellence readers have come to expect of Checkpoints. The AOG reserves the right to publish or omit submissions at its discretion. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policy or attitude of the AOG, its officers or the editorial staff. The appearance of advertisements in this publication does not constitute an endorsement by the AOG of the products or services advertised. Copyright, Association of Graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy, March, 2017.

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IN JUST THE LAST THREE YEARS,

parents have contributed more than $2.5 million to the Air Force Academy Fund. This private support plays a critical role in the lives of cadets and funds many important Academy programs including: • • • • • • • • •

Academic Awards Academy Assembly Intramural and Intercollegiate Athletics Cadet Summer Research Character and Leadership Programs Distinguished Guest Speakers Undergraduate Research International Immersion Squadron Improvements … and many others

Additionally, the Air Force Academy Fund enables the Endowment to leverage support for major Academy projects like the Holaday Athletic Center and the Center for Character and Leadership Development.

Each fall, parents receive a call from the Endowment and are asked to become Sabre Society level donors to the Air Force Academy Fund. We look forward to speaking with you about how you can continue to support the Air Force Academy in this way.

Your support makes a difference.

THE TRANSMISSON USAFA news from around the globe ... and beyond Pott selects Mitchell ’83 Zane Mitchell ’83 has accepted the position of dean for the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education at the University of Southern Indiana. Mitchell had served as interim dean of the college since June 2016. Mitchell, professor of engineering and chair of USI’s Engineering Department, joined the USI faculty in 2009. Prior to his arrival at USI, he completed a career in the United States Air Force.

Johnson ’87 returns to Springs Harper Johnson ’87 is the new chief information officer and associate vice chancellor for information technology at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. Johnson was previously director of enterprise solutions at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff. He served in the U.S. Air Force, where he attained the rank of captain and was a KC-135R Stratotanker pilot.

Dedication honors Short ’65

Welsh ’76 joins boards

The 505th Command and Control Wing at Hurlburt Field dedicated a building to recognize the career of Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Michael Short ’65, which included more than 50 years of service to the Air Force. He retired in 2000. Following his active-duty service, Short served 16 years as an expert-senior mentor with the 505th CCW, preparing a generation of airmen for leadership at the operational level of war.

Mark Welsh III ’76, dean of the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University, has been selected to serve as a member of the U.S. Air Force Academy Endowment Board of Directors. The Air Force Academy Endowment provides stewardship of major gifts to the military institution in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Welsh also has joined the Board of Directors for Northrop Grumman Corporation.

In addition, Welsh and his wife, Betty, received the Distinguished American Award from the Nation’s Capital Chapter of the Air Force Association. The Distinguished American Award recognizes individuals whose leadership in national affairs has been instrumental in protecting the values and traditions of the United States.

Welsh received the Ike Skelton Legacy Award on Nov. 12, 2016. The honor was presented by Wentworth Military Academy and College in Lexington, Missouri. The award recognizes those who emulate Skelton’s life in service to nation, state and community. Welsh retired from the Air Force in 2016 after four years as the chief of staff of the Air Force.

Holtz ’97 gains promotion Heath Holtz ’97 has been promoted to vice president of manufacturing at the Smyrna Vehicle Assembly Plant with Nissan North America, Inc. In this role, Holtz is responsible for the operation of Nissan’s Smyrna Vehicle Assembly Plant, including safety, quality, operations, productivity and environmental compliance. Holtz joined Nissan North America in March 2006.

Howard ’91 joins playoff committee Chris Howard ’91, Robert Morris president, has been added to the NCAA’s college football playoff selection committee. The 46-year-old Howard is one of the youngest university presidents in the country. He is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy and former starting running back for the Falcons football team. Howard was a Rhodes scholar, attending Oxford University from 1991-94.

HSN hires Little ’92

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Rod Little ’92 has joined HSN, Inc. as its new chief financial officer. Little will oversee all financial management of the company. Little previously was CFO with Elizabeth Arden, Inc. and held leadership positions with Procter & Gamble prior to that.

Hickey ’80, Regni ’73 join MOAA Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Allison A. Hickey ’80, president and CEO of All Solutions LLC, and Lt. Gen. (Ret.) John F. Regni ’73, former superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy, have been elected to the board of directors of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), the nation’s largest officer’s association. The MOAA has more than 355,000 members representing each branch of service, including active duty, retired, National Guard, Reserve, and former officers and their families and survivors.

Barry ’73 gains appointment

Francis ’89 promoted

Maj. Gen. (Ret.) John Barry ’73 was appointed as the new CEO of the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum in Denver. Barry earlier served as chairman of the board for Wings Over the Rockies, during which time he oversaw major growth in the museum’s infrastructure. Barry previously served as superintendent of Aurora Public Schools for seven years.

Barry took over for Greg Anderson ’72 who stepped down after 12 years of service as CEO. Founded in 1994, Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum is housed at the former Lowry Air Force Base.

Col. Michael Francis ’89 is the new assistant adjutant generalAir for the Missouri National Guard at Ike Skelton Training Site. Francis was previously commander of the 131st Bomb Wing. Prior to that, Francis served as an F-15 instructor pilot during two active-duty operational tours. He transitioned to the Missouri Air National Guard as an F-15 instructor pilot in 1998.

Warren ’99 joins Volunteers Charlton Warren ’99 has been hired as the new defensive backs coach at the University of Tennessee. Charlton came over from the University of North Carolina, where he coached the defensive backs in Chapel Hill the previous two seasons.

He also worked previously as an assistant coach with USAFA Falcons football.

Moore ’79 set to assume role Lt. Col. (Ret.) Jeff “Jammer” Moore ’79 has been appointed executive director of the Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association (the River Rats). The appointment will become effective in May 2017 during the 50th Anniversary River Rats Reunion. The core mission of the River Rats is to honor the service and sacrifice of all U.S. military aircrew members. The River Rats are 3,700 members strong and growing, and they have provided over $2 million in scholarships and over $1.2 million in IRS 529 College Savings Plans for more than 1,200 children of fallen military aviators.

Salvador ’79 named COO of CAP John Salvador ’79 has been named the chief operating officer of the Civil Air Patrol, headquartered in Montgomery. Salvador, who was previously serving as the interim chief operating officer, helped organize CAP’s grand 75th anniversary gala celebration in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 1, 2016. He will serve directly under CAP’s national commander. Salvador has held other leadership positions within CAP over the last 20 years. From July 2010 to August 2016, he served as senior director. His background at national headquarters also includes service as director of missions, director of operations and chief of aerospace education. In addition, he served as CAP-U.S. Air Force director of operations.

Otto ’82 heads to Black Hills Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Robert P. Otto ’82 has joined the Board of Directors for Black Hills Corp. His appointment will temporarily increase the size of the board from 10 to 11 directors, to allow a smooth transition for director retirements that are anticipated over the next few years. Otto has more than 20 years of experience in military leadership roles, most recently as the deputy chief of staff for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance for the Air Force.

McClintock ’87 starts business Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Bruce McClintock ’87 retired from the Air Force in October 2016 and started his own business. Zenith Advisors Group LLC is a consulting group that works with startup entrepreneurs and defense national security organizations. McClintock is also an adjunct analyst for Ram Corp.

Boyd ’85 joins Neovia Kit Q. Boyd ’85 has joined Neovia Logistics, a global supplier of logistics services, as chief operations officer. Boyd brings a solid background in omni-channel distribution, logistics, manufacturing and e-commerce to Neovia, where he oversees the daily operations of the company. Boyd recently served as senior vice president of global logistics with Ingram Micro.

Baroni ’92 leads flight service Mark Baroni ’92 has been hired as charter manager for New Flight Charters, a nationwide leader in private jet charter. New Flight Charters continues to gain popularity with private fliers — including corporations, political organizations and private families.

Baroni heads up the company’s new Jet Charter Colorado service and assists with company operations.

Harrison ’88 joins MTS Steven Harrison ’88 has joined MTS Systems Corporation, a leading global supplier of high-performance test systems and sensors, as lead for its vehicles and structures test systems business unit. Harrison is a Rhodes Scholar with advanced degrees in engineering and economics from Oxford University in England.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 17

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Restoring

Faded Splendor Academy grads join forces to restore the historic Air Garden

By Gary Martyn

I

n 2004, Congress designated the Cadet Area of the Air Force Academy as a National Historic Landmark.

The landmark’s most ionic feature, the Cadet Chapel, with its 17 stained glass and aluminum spires that resemble a squadron of Air Force fighter jets, had become a symbol of the Modernist design that defines the campus architecture and grounds.

Construction of the campus began in 1955. As the buildings began to reach skyward, landscape architect Daniel Kiley went to work on the ground level of the Cadet Area, giving special attention to the Terrazzo, the expansive central square between the campus structures. The jewel in the design was the Air Garden.

A WALK IN THE WOODS When designing a landscape, Kiley said, “A garden should feel like a walk in the woods.”

Drawing inspiration from the Academy’s location on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains, Kiley created the Air Garden as a broad impression of a mountain stream, flowing for 700 feet through a series of reflective pools, flanked by sunken planters, and intertwined with a labyrinth of aggregate granite walkways, winding through a collection of woodland trees and plants.

Kiley also tapped into his visionary spirit to design the garden to provide a unique experience when viewed from the air as well as from the ground. The aerial view was an appropriate consideration for the Air Force Academy, and an inspiration for the Air Garden name.

Reflecting on his design of the Academy grounds, Kiley said, “I was at that point establishing a reputation as a landscape architect who rejected traditional compositional methods, instead seeking organic order and balance in concert with architectural elements. We pushed to reveal a sense of movement on the land, as well as to connect outwards to the essence and spirit of the site.”

FADED GLORY Unfortunately, the Air Garden today bears little resemblance to Kiley’s original masterpiece. More than 50 years of exposure to the extremes of harsh Colorado winters and blistering summer sun hastened the deterioration of the garden’s stonework paths and structures. The original vegetation and landscaping also lost their former splendor.

In response to various grounds maintenance and repair

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issues, most of the reflective pools and sunken planting areas were filled with dirt and covered with sod over the years. Trees and shrubs that died were rarely replaced and the garden faded.

ON A RESCUE MISSION Academy graduates from the classes of 1975 and 1976 have joined forces to champion a $5 million project to

Modernist landscape architect Dan Kiley poses in the Air Garden in 1968.

Digital artist Joel Gray’s rendering of what the Air Garden will look like after renovation. restore the Air Garden to its original grandeur. The project was selected from a short list of current priorities provided by the Academy.

“In the end, the overwhelming sense was supportive of this effort to preserve the heritage of the Academy and make the Air Garden an attractive element of the cadet grounds,” says Col. (Ret.) Joseph Wysocki, chairman of the Class of ’76 Class Gift Committee.

When Fariss and his classmates were freshmen, the Air Garden was off limits until they completed their rigorous first year of training and were officially “recognized” as upperclassmen, allowing them to wear the Prop and Wings insignia on their flight caps.

“Because of that, the Air Garden was a venerated place that had a special feel to it,” Fariss explains. “The first time you got to walk in the Air Garden, that was pretty cool. So it’s in our

“The restoration of the Air Garden is another example of how private funds add significantly to the margin of excellence of Academy-initiated projects” As part of the restoration, the 9/11 World Trade Center Memorial, the 35th reunion gift to the Academy from the Class of ’76, will be relocated from the northwest edge of the Terrazzo to the Air Garden.

“The movement of various statues and monuments that currently exist in places around the Air Garden will further add to the heritage symbology of the garden,” Wysocki explains.

Graduates from the Class of ’75 share the same vision for the project. Col. (Ret.) Larry Fariss, a member of the 45th Reunion Class Gift Committee, remembers the Air Garden as a unique place that came to symbolize a right of passage for freshmen cadets.

mystique and in our minds as being hallowed ground, if you will, an iconic place out there on the Terrazzo, the most important part of the Terrazzo.”

Fariss is also pleased to join forces with the Class of ’76 to support the restoration project.

“We’re excited to be in it with a sister class,” he says. “We were there together for three of the four years at the Academy.

I know tons of people in the Class of ’76 and vice versa, so it’s exciting to be in it with them.”

RESURRECTING THE PAST The landscape architects who are coordinating the restoration may feel like archeologists as they begin to unearth and

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 21

restore the buried fountains, pools and planters that were part of the original design. They want to honor the legacy that Dan Kiley entrusted to Air Force Academy, making the Air Garden worthy of inclusion as part of a National Historic Landmark.

“This project has been a lot of fun,” says Jim Houk, president of Thomas and Thomas Planning, Urban Design & Landscape Architecture, Inc., the team tasked by Merrick & Company to drive the restoration project.

“We’re really trying to stay as true to Kiley’s design as possible, while incorporating the latest environmental objectives, especially water conservation,” Houk explains. “There were a lot of problems with the early pumping system, and maintenance really got expensive, which contributed to the eventual filling in of the majority of the pools. In the renovation, we’re reducing the amount of water needed to maintain the pools and fountain areas. We also took steps to improve the soil conditions and drainage. The proposed plan removes the remaining existing locust trees (30 percent of the original planting) and brings in 400 new trees to recreate the original design.”

Houk and his team are awaiting final approval from the Academy, but hope to begin working on the garden before summer.

PULLING IT ALL TOGETHER Approximately $2.5 million in government funds have been allocated for the project, with the USAFA Endowment, the Associate of Graduates, and friends of the Academy providing the remaining $2.5 needed to fully fund a complete restoration.

“The restoration of the Air Garden is another example of how private funds add significantly to the margin of excellence of Academy-initiated projects,” says Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Mark Volcheff, president and CEO of the USAFA Endowment.

“Without private support, the Air Garden could have only been minimally restored. But now, it will reflect the unique heritage of the Air Force Academy and the original splendor of the Cadet Area.”

The USAFA Endowment maintains a list of priority projects and programs that help the Air Force Academy increase the margin of excellence that sets it apart from other military academies. Explore current funding opportunities on the Endowment website www.usafa.org/endowment or call 719 472-0300.

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AIR FORCE ACADEMY FUND Reaching New Heights Your gifts to the Air Force Academy Fund help our cadets reach new heights by providing opportunities to participate in cadet “margin of excellence� programs.

Your gifts also support vital graduate programs and services, and help advance Academy strategic needs and capital projects.

Your gifts help make possible: Cadet Clubs and Intramurals Distinguished Speaker Series International Programs Undergraduate Research n

n

n

n

n

n

n

n

Class Legacy Program Class Reunions Parent Handbook and WebGuy Center for Character and Leadership Development

For more information, visit: www.usafaendowment.org Questions, email: afaf@usafaendowment.org Give online: giveafaf.org Give by phone: 719.472.0300

Give by mail: Checks payable to the USAFA Endowment

3116 Academy Dr., USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475

MILESTONES This year, the USAFA Endowment celebrates 10 years of raising private funds to increase the margin of excellence that is the hallmark of the United States Air Force Academy.

In partnership with a wide array of Academy graduates, family and friends, the Endowment has raised more than $120 million to support the Academy’s mission to educate and train officers of character to serve the Air Force and the nation.

Building Upon a Foundation of Success The Endowment was formally established in 2007, but it was built upon a legacy of more than 50 years of successful, private philanthropy. Three months after the Air Force Academy was established on April 1, 1954, The Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs Foundation, Inc. was created to “assist and contribute to the establishment, maintenance, growth and development of the United States Air Force Academy… .”

The Air Force Academy Foundation set the standard for principled fundraising practices and faithful stewardship of funds contributed to the Academy.

Many of the iconic features that define the Academy today were created through a combination of private and public funds, including the Eisenhower Golf Course, the Farish Memorial Recreational Area, Falcon Stadium, the Barry Goldwater Air Force Academy Visitor Center, and the Academy Cemetery’s Memorial Pavilion. As the Academy grew, so did its private support base.

Private businesses and organizations like the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics quickly recognized the significance of the Academy’s stellar academic programs and military mission and provided support for Academy projects and programs. Corporations like Martin-Marietta, IBM, ITT, American Airlines, Pratt & Whitney, and The Boeing Company added to a growing list of private contributors to the Academy.

In 2007, the USAFA Endowment was tasked with carrying

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the vision of private philanthropy into the future. Its mission: To provide efficient and perpetual stewardship of donated gifts to the United States Air Force Academy so as to ensure their permanency and efficacy in accordance with the donors’ intent.

In its first decade, the Endowment has raised more than $120 million in private funds to support projects prioritized by the Academy superintendent. Private funding needs on the horizon could easily top $300 million — and the Endowment is gearing up to meet the challenge.

“The Long Blue Line of 48,713 Academy graduates has grown considerably over the years,” said Jennifer Bateman, vice president of Development of the USAFA Endowment. “From the beginning, private philanthropy has added support for the transformative cadet experience, increasing the margin of excellence of the Academy’s military, academic, athletic, and character-building training. The Endowment has been privileged to work side-by-side with Academy graduates, friends and family over the last 10 years, and we look forward to being a conduit of support for the Academy for many years to come.”

Explore current funding opportunities on the USAFA Endowment website www.usafa.org/endowment or call 719-472-0300.

LONG BLUE LADLE Wendy Ojala (mother of Basic Cadet Jessica Ojala, Class of 2020) sent in a family-favorite recipe sure to help basketball fans start out the long days of March Madness right.

“We came up with this combination of breakfast foods to create hot chili,” Ojala reports. “We double or triple it depending on our party size for the day.”

Game Day Breakfast Chili Preparation time: 30 minutes Serves: 6-8 adults 1 lb. Italian sausage (hot or mild), browned and crumbled 1 lb. Bacon, fully cooked and crumbled 9 Hard-boiled eggs, diced 1 (10.75 oz.) can of cream of chicken soup 1 (10.75 oz.) can of cream of mushroom soup 1 Soup can of milk 1 (16 oz.) can of navy beans 4 Green onions, minced 1 (4 oz.) can green chiles or jalapeños 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Salt and pepper to taste

The night before serving, combine the sausage, bacon, soups, milk, beans, onions, peppers and cheese in crockpot. Mix well and season to taste. Cook on low overnight.

In the morning, add eggs. Serve with toasted English muffins or over hash browns.

26 · usafa.org

Ryan Hall

Checkpoints · September 2015 · 27

AIR FORCE ONE PILOTS ALWAYS BRING THEIR ‘A’ GAME

By Jeff Holmquist

W

What’s it like to pilot the most recognizable aircraft in the world? More than a few USAFA graduates could tell you.

When the U.S. president takes a trip on Air Force One, quite often the pilot at the controls was once a cadet.

In fact, when then-President Barack Obama was the commencement speaker at the Academy graduation in June, three graduates piloted Air Force One to bring him to Colorado. Lt. Col. Dan Thorn ’92 (now retired), Lt. Col. Rob Tobler ’92 and Maj. Brett Ellis ’03 were singled out as part of the president’s address.

“Now, I have to tell, some days I spend more time with the Air Force than my own family,” President Obama told the crowd. “Especially on Air Force One. You take good care of me. You are always on time. You never lose my luggage. I don’t have to take off my shoes before I get on.

So I’m really going to miss Air Force One … as well as the incredible airmen that I’ve come to know.”

Even today, the current leadership and pilot corps within the Presidential Airlift Group at Joint Base Andrews continues to have a distinct U.S. Air Force Academy flavor.

The Presidential Airlift Group Commander is Col. Bruce Ybarra ’93, the 15th presidential pilot in the history of the 89th Airlift Wing.

The Presidential Airlift Squadron Commander is Lt. Col. Sean “Knute” Adcock ’98, who also flies Air Force One. “Col. Ybarra is probably the most active flying group commander in the Air Force, and I think I’m one of the most active flying squadron commander in the Air Force,” he claims. “We value operational expertise over everything.”

Adcock has been at Andrews since 2012 and has been flying Air Force One since 2014. He became the squadron commander almost two years ago.

“I really can’t think of a better group of people to work with,” he says. “I love it. Every day I pinch myself.”

USAF photo by Senior Airman Mariah Haddenham

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‘ PRESIDENT’ WE WILL NEVER FAIL THE

Col. Christopher Thompson ‘93 (right), vice commander of the 89th Airlift Wing, walks and talks with President Donald Trump at Joint Base Andrews prior to the president’s first flight on Air Force One.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 29

Staff Sgt. Armando A. Schwier-Morales

30 · usafa.org

AIR FORCE ONE

JOB ONE

Officially, Air Force One is any aircraft that the sitting president flies on. But the plane most closely associated with the title is a 747-200 (VC-25).

“We’re a fleet of one,” Adcock reports. “Actually, there are two identical Air Force Ones.”

Carrying tail numbers 28000 and 29000, both Air Force One aircraft came off the production line and were pressed into service in 1990.

“It’s like a hybrid,” Adcock says. “It has 400 engines and 300 wings. But it all comes together to make a classic 747-200 at the end of the day.”

Adcock calls Air Force One “a pilot’s aircraft” because it flies so well and is in pristine condition.

“Sort of like your Cadillac mini-van,” he laughs. “You don’t want to admit that it’s fun to drive, but it is.”

The maintenance crew does a marvelous job of keeping the 30-year-old aircraft performing perfectly, Adcock says.

“It looks like a brand new plane every time we fly it,” he adds. “So they make my job easy.”

The PAG pilots also fly the 757 (C-32) on occasion.

That aircraft has plenty of bells and whistles to hold one’s interest, he suggests.

“That’s like your Ferrari that you keep on the side,” he says. “So every itch is scratched as an aviator.”

The Presidential Airlift Group strives to keep its corps of pilots “incredibly proficient in both aircraft” that serve the president, Adcock says. That high level of proficiency helps guarantee the safety of the president when he flies on Air Force One. “I feel like a fantasy football coach sometimes,” he admits.

“I’m constantly trying to draft the best team and moving bodies around. But what’s nice is I don’t have a waiver wire. I don’t have to worry about people leaving. It seems like everyone here either separates or retires from this job.”

For as long as Adcock can remember, Air Force One has maintained a “100 percent departure reliability rate.”

That’s important, he says, because important meetings and negotiations can be compromised if the president shows up late or has to cancel.

“No kidding, we will never fail the president,” he admits. “It’s our mission, it’s our vision. That’s what guides us every day.”

As a result, Adcock says, everyone on the 89th Airlift Wing team is required to bring their “A game” when they’re on duty.

“In the quest for perfection, you’ll hit excellence,” he explains.

“I demand from myself and everyone else that we’re flawless in our individual roles in this mission.”

Adcock admits the stress level is elevated for PAG team members because they have to be perfect while both on and off duty. He says 89th leaders never want to see one of their people in the news.

“IN THE QUEST FOR PERFECTION, YOU’LL HIT EXCELLENCE. ...

I DEMAND FROM MYSELF AND EVERYONE ELSE THAT WE’RE FLAWLESS IN OUR INDIVIDUAL ROLES IN THIS MISSION.” — LT. COL. SEAN “KNUTE” ADCOCK ‘98

“You are under the gun,” he says. “You are always under the watchful eye.”

POSITIVE PERKS Adcock says he was fortunate to fly former President Barack Obama to California on his last presidential aircraft trip following Donald Trump’s inauguration. The former president thanked the crew for their professionalism and support through the years.

“He was very grateful. It’s incredibly rewarding when the president tells you that you did a good job,” Adcock says. “I don’t know if anything will ever top that.”

Adcock is quick to admit, however, that close encounters with the president and well-known people is not the ultimate reward of the job.

“We try to stay out of the show,” he says. “We don’t like to be in the limelight at all. At the end of the day, that’s not why we do it. Every day, you feel that energy of everyone working hard to get this mission done. That’s the most rewarding thing, not the star-struck stuff.”

A NEW ADMINISTRATION With the election of Donald Trump in November 2016, the PAG has been working with the transition team and the new White House staff to make sure everybody is on the same page in terms of expectations for transport services.

PAG pilots reached out to Trump’s previous aviation department to ask questions and prepare for a new customer.

In the early days of the Trump administration, Adcock says things are going pretty well.

“We’re figuring it out,” he says. “So far, so good.”

Adcock points to media reports following President Trump’s first flight on Air Force One in January. The president had nothing but good things to say about the airplane and the flight.

“The snippets on the news have been rewarding, saying how it’s been magnificent,” Adcock says.

BACKGROUND After graduating from USAFA, Adcock stayed at the Academy for six months as a research physicist. He then went on to pilot training and two tours in the KC-135s — MacDill in Tampa and Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan. Later, he was assigned to VIP airlift in Germany.

“I did that for four years, flying the supreme allied commander of Europe,” he says.

He would eventually fly the Global Express (E-11) in Afghanistan for seven months. Adcock would become the chief of safety at Ramstein Air Base, a job that would help later in his career.

After finishing Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell, Adcock had a job at the 89th waiting for him.

“I definitely wanted to be at Andrews,” he says.

At the outset, he flew the 757 (C-32) for the vice president, secretary of state and others. Because of his previous stint as chief of safety, Adcock would be promoted to that same role for the wing.

After biding his time in that role, Adcock was called to the office of the 14th presidential pilot, Col. Dave Banholzer, under the impression that they were going to talk about a recent safety inspection.

He was offered both the Air Force One and squadron commander jobs on the spot.

“It was like a dream come true,” he says.

So far during his career, Adcock has amassed 6,100 flying hours, 1,000 of which were in combat.

He attributes his progression from cadet to Air Force One pilot to always doing the right thing and having a passion for whatever mission he was assigned.

“It’s not necessarily a reward for just checking all the boxes,” he says of his current job. “But I feel like I’ve been rewarded for doing what the Air Force wanted me to do, and that’s to fly planes and do it to the best of my ability.”

He also credits his supportive family for making his entire career possible. His wife, Courtney, and three children — Weston, 12; Milo, 10; and Poppy, 2 — are “what keep me motivated, keep me grounded and push me to do more,” he says.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 31

MOVING

a

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MISSION

89

th

AIRLIFT WING DELIVERS MORE THAN JUST THE PRESIDENT

W

hen the nation’s top military and civilian leaders travel to conduct important diplomatic and humanitarian missions, a United States Air Force Academy graduate with the 89th Airlift Wing is usually somewhere in the background.

The 89th was first activated as a troop carrier wing in 1949, but it wasn’t until 1966 that the organization was charged with “Special Air Mission” (SAM) responsibilities for high-ranking dignitaries.

According to Col. Christopher Thompson ’93, vice commander of the 89th, approximately 1,400 people are currently assigned to carry out the mission of the wing. Of that total, about 1,000 are Blue Suiters.

The wing currently flies, serves and maintains 17 airplanes out of Joint Base Andrews near Washington, D.C. The 89th provides transportation services to the president through the Presidential Airlift Group (PAG) and to the vice president, secretary of defense, secretary of state, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the First Lady through the 99th Airlift Squadron and the 1st Airlift Squadron.

“It’s really a fantastic wing to be a part of,” Thompson says.

“When people hear about the 89th Airlift Wing, they think about the Presidential Airlift Group, and that is a big part of what we do.

But it’s not the only thing that we do.”

Overall, the wing includes four groups and seven squadrons: PAG, 89th Operations Group, 89th Maintenance Group, 89th Airlift Support Group, Presidential Airlift Squadron, Presidential Logistics Squadron, 1st Airlift Squadron, 99th Airlift Squadron, 89th Operations Support Squadron, 89th Communications Squadron and 89th Aerial Port Squadron.

“Last year we probably touched 100-plus nations,” Thompson says. “For the size of the unit we are — really just three flying squadrons — we have an amazing footprint around the world as we help to carry out our nation’s interests.”

Apart from pilots (approximately 50 of whom are Academy graduates), the wing employs a myriad of support staff — flight attendants, communications technicians, maintainers, logistics experts, flight engineers, airfield managers and more.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 33

89

Colonel Thompson ‘93

th Lieutenant Colonel Kirkland ‘99

Unlike most of the Air Force, the 89th is allowed to handpick its pilots and support staff. That ensures that the Air Force’s best mobility airmen are assigned to the high-profile mission.

Thompson notes that the Air Force has just two “no-fail” missions. One is the nuclear enterprise, and the second is transport for our nation’s leaders.

“One well-executed diplomatic mission that we’re supporting will hopefully prevent 1,000 combat sorties,” Thompson explains. “If one well-executed mission can do that, then we’ve done our job.”

Because of the importance of the wing’s mission, Thompson says, everyone hired at the 89th adheres to the wing’s SAM Fox (Special Air Mission-Foreign) standards.

“Perfection is our standard,” he explains. “We know we’re never going to be perfect, but our goal is to strive for perfection.

And you expect the person sitting next to you or working next to you to be doing the same thing.”

The wing has been front and center for a number of high-profile missions of late, including the first presidential visit to Cuba in 88 years, the Iran nuclear negotiations and the extraction of American detainees from Iran.

“All the things that are happening in the world, somewhere in the background is an 89th airplane supporting those folks who are making it happen,” Thompson says.

***

Lt. Col. Jason Kirkland ’99 has been with the 89th for the past four years. He currently serves as the commander of the 99th Airlift Squadron.

He became interested in joining the 89th back in the early 2000s, flying into Andrews with his previous DV (distinguished visitor) Airlift responsibilities.

“I’d always see the blue and white planes — kind of the iconic symbol of America,” he recalls. “They were carrying our nation’s colors … carrying the most important, most influential communicators and holders of American power.”

Kirkland had to wait, however, until he amassed enough varied experience and professional expertise before he could apply. Pilots who hope to fly for the wing are required to have a 34 · usafa.org

Lieutenant Colonel Christensen ’01

Lieutenant Colonel Riddle ’97

minimum of 2,500 flight hours and an exemplary flight record.

Most new hires, however, have between 3,000 and 4,000 hours of experience. The prospective pilots also must be able to attain the stringent security clearances required for the job.

Kirkland is thrilled, to say the least, to be part of the team today.

“It can be cliché, but excellence in all we do is obviously a core value of the Air Force,” he says. “To find men and women who day-in and day-out preach that and put it into practice … it’s contagious and something you want to be around.”

Kirkland adds the mission of the 89th is unlike most assignments in the Air Force. Through most of his career, Kirkland would transport people to “break things and blow things up.”

Today, he’s part of the team that tries to keep the peace.

“We are taking statesmen overseas to further our interests,” he explains. “We’re the ones going in there before things happen — laying the groundwork, and setting the framework for diplomacy.”

***

The current director of staff at the 89th is Lt. Col. Lisa Christensen ’01. She is responsible for identifying the creamof-the-crop candidates who would fit in well with the wing and its mission. She also continues to fly regularly for the 89th.

Her husband also is part of the wing, flying for the 1st Airlift Squadron.

“We were lucky enough to get picked up and come here,” she says. “It’s awesome to get to fly all around the country and support our users. I’ve gotten to put a lot of different pins on the map.”

Christensen says there is no “typical day” at the 89th, which makes everyone’s job more exciting and rewarding.

As a hiring professional, Christensen offers some advice for cadets who would aspire to an assignment such as the 89th.

“Always be open to new adventures,” she explains. “Be willing to take jobs that might not be exactly what you think is the career path to get where you want to go. All the jobs — whether it be flying or staff — will broaden you and your job knowledge.”

And, she adds, stay in touch with your fellow graduates as you advance through the Air Force. You never know when that network might help you.

Lieutenant Colonel Doty ‘01

Lieutenant Colonel Queen ‘97

Lieutenant Colonel Caparella ’96

“IT’S BEEN AN INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK INTERAGENCY AND I N T E R - G O V E R N M E N T A L ...

IT’S AN EXCITING TIME TO BE IN D.C. IT’S BEEN SO REMARKABLE TO BE A PART OF HISTORY.” — Cap t. Marg o Sh i eld s ’1 1 ***

The commander for the 1st Airlift Squadron for the past two years has been Lt. Col. Justin Riddle ’97. The squadron operates the C-40s, C-32s and C-17s in the wing’s fleet.

Riddle came to the wing in atypical fashion. After flying C-17s for 11 years, Riddle left the Air Force for an airline career. A short time later, he was furloughed from his civilian position as the nation’s economic tanked.

As a result, he returned to active duty. Three years after returning to the Air Force, Riddle talked with a few friends assigned to the 89th who encouraged him to apply. Riddle was eventually hired to fly C-40s.

“The 89th Airlift Wing is probably different than any other assignments that I’ve had,” he admits. “In this world, it’s not uncommon to have the secretary of state or the vice president of United States come up to the flight deck and tell you they need to go to Point B instead of Point C, and it’s up to you to make that happen. I definitely enjoy the opportunities to get involved in solving those types of problems.”

Riddle also appreciates the “family feel” of the 89th.

Pilots, leadership and support personnel typically stick around for longer periods of time when compared to other Air Force missions.

Lieutenant Colonel Diesselhorst ’01

Major Cannone ’05

Captain Shields ’11

“We’re on average a little bit older and more mature and more experienced,” he explains.

***

Lt. Col. Joshua Doty ’01, pilot with the 1st Airlift Squadron, admits there’s more than a little bit of extra stress felt by 89th members because of the importance of their collective mission.

The wing’s SAM Fox standard requires that everyone involved in the mission strives to keep the key customers “safe, connected and protected” throughout their travels.

“We hold ourselves to the highest standards to help them do their jobs,” he says. “If we fail to launch, or if we fail to make a destination on time, then United States leaders fail to make their meetings and fail to … advance our foreign and domestic policy.

It’s a heavy burden, but it’s one we gladly take on and cherish.”

***

Lt. Col. Jeff Queen ’97, deputy group commander for the 89th Operations Group, has been with the wing for more than five years. He plans to retire in June, completing 20 years in the Air Force.

“This is a fantastic way to end a career,” Queen says. “I’ve loved my time here.”

The biggest challenge facing the wing over the coming months is the change in administrations at the White House.

Because former President Barack Obama was in office for eight years, few members of the 89th have experienced a transition in power.

Queen says wing officials have updated the “contact guide” for the White House and the other senior military and civilian leaders who will use the transport services provided by the 89th.

The document outlines the capabilities of the wing and its rules regarding safety and trip planning.

“Changes in administration are challenging for us, but it also gives us a great opportunity to set expectations,” Queen notes.

“Users continuously push the boundaries. Holding them to the things we can and can’t do … that erodes over time. This is a great opportunity for us to re-level the playing field.”

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 35

89 ***

According to Lt. Col. Tony Caparella ’96, deputy group commander for the 89th Operations Group, being involved with the 89th expands the worldview of everyone assigned to Andrews.

“There is 99 percent more happening outside ... than what we see on local news,” he explains. “The 89th does provide a broader view of what’s going on and the importance of it.”

Caparella says he is proud to play a small role in making history happen.

“I’ve always been proud to serve my country,” he says, “whether I was carrying bullets or bombs in the back of a C-5, or carrying our soldiers back from overseas … everything that we do supports our country. The patriotism never leaves, even on the worst days.”

Caparella says the 89th is re-evaluating its mission and determining who the wing will serve now and in the future. Some years ago, the 89th provided transport to group commanders and wing commanders as well as the top military and civilian leaders. Today, the mission is only for combatant commanders and higher.

“What are DV operations going to look like? Where do we stop with the support for DV operations?” he says in explaining the current conversation.

***

Lt. Col. Hollie Nicole Diesselhorst ’01, a Gulfstream pilot in the 99th Airlift Squadron, had been away from flying for three years before she landed a spot with the 89th just six months ago.

“That was probably what was most exciting for me — getting back in the cockpit,” she says. “Plus the mission is awesome.

It’s fast paced and you can be called at a moment’s notice to fly anywhere in the world.”

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th

Two of her favorite recent trips were to Hawaii and Turkey.

Just like any other Air Force assignment, Diesselhorst admits flying isn’t the only aspect of her job. She still has to deal with the mundane as well.

“OPRs (officer performance reports) still need to get done. Paperwork still has to be processed,” she smiles. “It’s not all piloting and it’s not all just flying the airplanes. Most of us wish that it could be, but it’s not.”

Avoiding discussions about hot-button topics also is part of the job, Diesselhorst adds.

“I make it standard not to talk about politics,” she says.

***

Maj. Anthony Cannone ’05 flies the C-20, C-37A and C-37B for the 99th Airlift Squadron. He was a pilot with Air Mobility Command prior to his current assignment.

There’s a much different vibe at the 89th than at other Air Force locales, Cannone suggests, because pretty much everyone wants to be at Andrews and they stay for longer periods of time.

“We only get people who are interested in coming here,” he explains. “I think, across the Air Force, there’s always people who didn’t want to be here or there. We see a lot of people where this is their top choice.”

Cannone’s favorite mission to date, among many memorable experiences he’s had with the 89th, was the Iran hostage prisoner exchange in early 2016. He reports that an incredible amount of coordination and negotiation was required to make it happen.

“We probably heard between 20 or 30 different plans about how it was going to go down,” he says. “Ultimately, we weren’t

h

President Barack Obama and Airmen from the Presidential Logistics Squadron, stand in formation in front of Air Force One, an 89th Airlift Wing VC-25, at Joint Base Andrews, Md., prior to Obama’s trip to New York City, May 4, 2015. The PLS is responsible for maintaining the VC-25s. This particular VC-25 returned to service after an 18-month heavy, depot-level maintenance cycle.

Senior Master Sgt. Kevin Wallace

on the news, but we were the ones who transferred the prisoners to American custody.”

***

Capt. Margo Shields ’11, executive officer for the 89th Airlift Support Group, works to ensure that communication channels are open at all times for military and civilian leaders who are on the airplanes. She also helps direct operations of the aerial port, coordinating ground services for the many flights that come in and out of Andrews on a daily basis.

A Russian immigrant who vowed to serve her adopted country following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Shields is pleased to be part of a team that supports the nation’s top leaders.

“It’s truly a dream come true to be here in the nation’s capital helping to further national security,” she says.

Shields reports that one of her most memorable experiences with the 89th was coordinating all of the incoming flights of two dozen international leaders attending the 2016 Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, D.C. Ground services that Shields helped coordinate included everything from cargo shipments to baggage screening to aircraft lavatory cleaning.

Other missions she’s helped support were President Obama’s historic trip to Cuba and the transport of dignitaries to tribunals at Guantanamo Bay. “It’s been an incredible opportunity to work interagency and inter-governmental,” the political science major says.

“It’s an exciting time to be in D.C. It’s been so remarkable to be a part of history.”

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 37

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‘I CANNOT BELIEVE WE PULLED THIS OFF ’

Sam Clovis ’71 currently finds himself at the Department of Agriculture, serving as a liaison between the USDA and the White House and as an advisor on ag policy to President Donald Trump.

40 · usafa.org

USAFA grad and Trump-team member helps 45th president accomplish political stunner

By Jeff Holmquist

I

t’s the fourth full day of Donald Trump’s tenure as president and Sam Clovis ’71 has barely started his to-do list.

Sitting in his office at the United States Department of Agriculture, Clovis thumbs through the newly completed action plan for guiding the department in the months and years ahead.

Three cellphones are neatly arranged near the edge of Clovis’ desk. He pauses to check each one on a periodic basis, shaking his head at the thought that he has a trio of phones and other electronic devices that chime incessantly for his attention.

Currently serving as the White House senior advisor to the USDA, Clovis admits he’s thrilled yet blown away to be part of the Trump team that is attempting to transform Washington, D.C., and take the nation in a more conservative direction.

A college professor and radio talk show host just a few months prior, Clovis says the chain of events that catapulted him into the 2016 presidential campaign and into the national spotlight is a bit dizzying as he looks back.

“I still pinch myself every morning when I get up,” he chuckles. “I cannot believe we pulled this off. It’s just amazing.”

Kansas Boy Clovis grew up in Medora, Kansas, and was on a first-name basis with its approximately 100 residents. His father worked for the power company and also served as the local postmaster. One room in the Clovis home had to be converted into a Post Office to serve the community.

“I had an opportunity to see my neighbors twice a day — in the morning and at night when the mail came,” he recalls. “It was quite a gathering place.”

In that small community, Clovis’ parents were politically active and they passed their passion for Republican values to their son.

“The very first thing I ever remember political was the 1956 Republican convention,” he remembers. “I was 7 years old at the time, and I think I asked my father 8 million questions about what was going on.”

Clovis’ father was a World War II and Korean War veteran and, apart from Republican sensibilities, the elder Clovis instilled a strong sense of patriotism and service in his son.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 41

... this was one of the most cherished moments of my life. I just couldn’t believe it — 67 years old, plucked off a college campus in Iowa, and asked to do this for a candidate.”

An accomplished student who could have attended any college or university he chose, Clovis would very early zero in on the Air Force Academy as an ideal place to get a solid education and serve his country at the same time.

As a freshman in high school, Clovis sent away for the Academy’s academic catalog so he could plan his educational path to line up with USAFA’s entrance requirements.

“All the things I did in school kind of leaned that way,” he says. “At the end of my junior year, my mom and I took a trip out to Colorado Springs to see the place. I was convinced then that I would try to get there.”

Dole Appointment Thanks to the newly elected senator from Kansas, Bob Dole, Clovis landed appointments to both USAFA and West Point. Because he wanted to fly jets, Clovis knew which appointment he would accept.

When he entered the Academy in 1967, the nation was deeply involved in the Vietnam conflict and Clovis expected to eventually be part of the fight.

After graduation, Clovis headed to pilot training and went on to fly the F-106 and the F-4 Wild Weasel.

Clovis then would head to the Pentagon to serve with Project Checkmate, a think tank for the chief of staff of the Air Force responsible for envisioning conflicts of the future.

“Through that, I had a chance to be exposed to so many things in the military,” he says.

After he was promoted to lieutenant colonel, Clovis would head to Moody Air Force Base to check out on the F-16. Then he became an F-16 squadron commander.

Following a stint at the Army War College, Clovis would be assigned to Bahrain immediately following the first Gulf War. “I was head of the office of military cooperation, which is essentially there for foreign military sales,” he says. “It was great to live in a Muslim country and to be exposed to all the cultural things that we had a chance to do over there.”

Returning to the States, Clovis would head to U.S. Space Command and NORAD. He served in Cheyenne Mountain during that time. He later went on to become inspector general at Peterson Air Force Base.

“I had just a very rich and great military career,” Clovis says.

42 · usafa.org

Civilian Life After retiring as a colonel in 1996, Clovis went to work for several defense contractors. He successfully grew the civilian business, but eventually decided he wasn’t completely satisfied with the corporate life.

He finished his doctorate degree and later took a job as a college professor.

“I wanted a different life and a different pace,” he admits.

Clovis would go on to become the dean of the College of Business and Management Science at William Penn University.

He would return to private industry for a short time before becoming the department chair of the Department of Business and Economics at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa.

“That was my day job,” he says with smile.

On The Radio In 2006, while professor Clovis worked as a Homeland Security consultant on the side, he was asked to appear on a local conservative radio program.

“We hit it off with the talk show host,” he recalls “Over the next several years, I became more and more of a regular on the program.”

As his popularity grew, Clovis was asked if he would host a daily radio program for the station and its sister stations. After getting the OK from Morningside College, Clovis’ foray into conservative radio was formalized.

“For one hour a day, for the next three and a half years, I did a conservative radio talk show,” he reports.

In addition, Clovis continued to teach and serve as a consultant.

“I had a very full plate,” he admits.

TEA Party Politics Clovis’ radio platform attracted significant attention from members of the Tea Party movement within Iowa’s Republican Party. Clovis and his wife had been involved in grassroots politics in Iowa, but they became even more active as the radio host’s political stock rose.

“I’m a Russell Kirk, Bill Buckley, Barry Goldwater, Ronald Reagan conservative,” he proclaims, “and I wear that proudly.”

In 2014, Clovis was asked to run for the open U.S. Senate seat in Iowa, placing second in the Republican primary to eventual winner Joni Ernst.

After his brief Senate run, Clovis was recruited to run for Iowa state treasurer, but he lost to the long-time incumbent in that race. Clovis assumed his political prospects were on hold for the time being.

“I just kind of thought I would just retire back to the college,” he says. “Well, that wasn’t to be, because in 2015 … Iowa is the epicenter for all things presidential. So my phone started ringing quite a bit.”

Presidential Politics After exploring his options, Clovis signed on to support former Texas Gov. Rick Perry for the Republican presidential nomination.

A short time later, Clovis received a call from Donald Trump, asking the Iowa radio host if he’d join the reality television star’s campaign.

“I had met Mr. Trump back in the summer of 2014 at a fundraiser,” Clovis says. “We had hit it off. I thought he was an amazing individual.”

But Clovis declined the invitation, explaining that he was already committed to candidate Perry. Trump suggested that, if Perry ever ended his campaign, Clovis should think about joining the Trump team.

Perry’s campaign lasted through the summer of 2015, but

by August the former Texas governor’s campaign was struggling financially and he eventually had to drop out.

“Then my phone exploded. I got calls from everybody you could imagine,” he chuckles. “Of course, one of the calls was from Donald J. Trump. The conversation was very much to the point. He says, ‘You’re not going to tell me no again, are you?” I said there was no possible way.”

Clovis was named Trump’s national co-chair and became the chief policy advisor to the campaign.

“I did a little bit of everything. Whatever they needed to get done, we got done,” Clovis explains.

Clovis often found himself on the national television and radio circuit serving as a Trump campaign spokesperson. He also was a key player in debate preparations for Mr. Trump.

“It was just an extraordinary experience,” he says. “There were a lot of tough days, and nobody gave us a chance.

Nobody thought we could pull it off.”

Election Night Many experts predicted that Trump would lose the presidential election in a landslide. But Clovis, who is a selfproclaimed “closet statistician,” wasn’t so sure. By the time election day was within 10 days, Clovis says he was convinced his candidate had a shot at victory.

“We felt that we had finally solidified our position and felt that we really, really had a chance to win,” he says. “You never really know. But we started to get this sense that we were about to pull something off.”

On election night, Clovis told his wife that the election results in North Carolina and Florida would help determine

Sam Clovis ’71 (left) talks over a document with a fellow member of the beachhead team at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. the final outcome. When early returns showed Trump well ahead in Florida, Clovis’ mood boosted.

“I knew at that time that we were going to win,” he notes.

“We had closed the door on all the pathways for Mrs. (Hillary) Clinton to win.”

A wave of relief crashed over Clovis as he sat in bed watching the returns. The results proved that Clovis had backed the right agent of change.

“We had worked so hard, for so long,” he says, choking back tears. “It was just one of the most amazing moments.

I’ve done a lot of things in my life. Got to fly the greatest airplanes ever built, served in the greatest nation’s military, had my children brought into the world, married to a wonderful woman, and she has a great son. All of those things were great.

“But this was one of the most cherished moments of my life.

I just couldn’t believe it — 67 years old, plucked off of a college campus in Iowa, and asked to do this for a candidate.”

Warrior Ethos Clovis is convinced that his experience as a fighter pilot helped him navigate his role as Trump advisor and spokesperson.

“You are able to maintain a calm in a very chaotic set of circumstances,” he says of the fighter-pilot fortitude he brought to the campaign. “Because you know things never, ever go the way you plan. So you have to have the ability to Checkpoints · March 2017 · 43

maintain your cool when everybody else is losing theirs. My job was to stay calm … because I could stay calm.”

One of the bigger battles he had to fight throughout the campaign was with the mainstream media. Because of his experience, Clovis says he lost respect for many journalists. Clovis confirms that some media outlets printed stories that were complete fabrications and filled with lies.

“How do you write something that is hurtful, damaging and critical, and meant to demean an individual without any corroboration or verification or even the slightest hint of fact? That always bothered me,” he says. “It’s water off a duck’s back for me … but we all have families.”

The lessons he’d learned as a cadet also paid dividends during the long campaign, Clovis admits.

“I really go back to the fundamentals of what makes a person and builds in them that character, that integrity, that strength that they have as an individual,” he says. “The ability to perform at a very high level for a very long time, under stress. In my case, that came from being a high school athlete and then being a cadet at the Air Force Academy. There’s nothing that prepares you more for life than that experience.”

Clovis says the support he received from classmates during the campaign helped buoy his spirits during the many difficult times he faced.

“My classmates came out of the woodwork in support,” he notes. “Not that everyone agreed with my candidate, trust me ... and I get that. But they all were very supportive of me, and I’ll never forget that.”

The bond among classmates, Clovis explains, can transcend the political divide that has developed in this country in recent months.

“There are no pretenses with a classmate,” he smiles. “They know who you are. They’ve seen you at your very best, they’ve seen you at your very worst and they love you anyway. Not much different than a good dog.”

The Aftermath The day after the election, Clovis stayed home to rest and bask in the “incredulity of the media,” he recalls.

“That was one of the most amazing things,” he laughs. “Some of those people were in actual mourning. I couldn’t believe it.”

The next day, he went into town to run a few errands. At the local gas station, a man exited the building and came running toward Clovis.

“I didn’t know what to think and I had no idea who he was,” Clovis says. “He grabs me in a big bear hug and he says, ‘You saved the country, you saved the country.’”

Clovis reports similar displays of emotion from other voters that day, but he’s not so sure that “saving the country” is an apt description of the outcome.

“We have drifted a long ways over my lifetime from the Founding Fathers,” he explains. “That’s neither a Republican or Democrat issue, that is where the country has gone. I felt like Mr. Trump represented … perhaps our one, last, best hope of yanking our country back toward the intentions of the Founding Fathers.”

But Clovis says he realizes the political path to “draining the swamp” and charting a new course for the country is filled with significant challenges.

“We have a long way to go,” he admits. “It’s going to be a heavy lift. We have a very small window to be successful, but I think … this 44 · usafa.org

is why we came to Washington. We have an opportunity. I’m not sure we’re going to get it all right, but anything we do is going to be better than what was being done.”

Transition Role Clovis says the new administration will focus on the four pillars of conservatism to help turn the country around — limited government, fiscal responsibility, a strong national defense and preservation of cultural values.

For the two months following the election, Clovis was in Washington, D.C., helping the Trump transition team prepare for the transfer of power on Jan. 20, 2017.

“As you can imagine, it’s a massive undertaking to prepare the policy action plans for every department and every agency in the government,” he says. “It was very intense work.”

Clovis’ current role in the D.C. transformation is working with the Department of Agriculture.

“Because I’m a Kansas boy and live in Iowa, it seems a natural fit for me,” he says. “I’m excited to be here.”

Clovis was among the members of the USDA “beachhead” team that was sworn into office the day of President Trump’s inauguration. Beachhead teams are made up of individuals who head into agencies immediately after the new president assumes power and take over the operation of the federal government.

“If nothing changes, this will be my job,” he says. “I’ll be here to advise the secretary and the department and to be the liaison with the White House. It’s a great gig.

“As far as the future goes, I serve at the pleasure of the president. Wherever he asks me to go, I’ll go.”

Unity As he wraps up his interview, Clovis is asked about the prospects of President Trump unifying the country. Just outside Clovis’ office window, workers are cleaning up from recent protests in opposition to the nation’s new leader.

“I think it depends on how you’re going to define unity,” he says.

“If you want everybody to stand in a circle and sing ‘Kum Ba Yah’ around the mall, that’s probably not going to happen — because that’s not very American. Americans are tough people. We have opinions. We have feelings about stuff.

“Our view of unity is the fact that we’re going to go out and do what’s best for the American people. We’re going to build communities again, because we don’t want people depending on government.

We want people depending on each other. The government is not the answer to everything.”

Epilogue “My wife has asked me a dozen times, ‘Did you have fun?’” Clovis says, referring to the campaign that led to President Trump’s election.

“I tell her we had fun times, but it was not necessarily fun. It was so serious, and the stakes were so high, and we had so much to get accomplished. But we knew we had the right guy at the right time at the right place with the right message.”

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 45

[TOGETHER[ EXPLORING Fischer ’96 prepares to join International Space Station crew By: Jeff Holmquist

James Blair

Expedition 51/52 crew member Jack Fischer during a certification test and chamber training.

D

uring his freshman year at the United States Air Force Academy, Jack Fischer ’96 had to rush home to visit his ailing father.

The owner of a successful construction firm near Boulder, Fischer’s father was no longer able to run the family business and Fischer wanted to help.

“I was going to quit the Academy and come home to the family construction company,” Col. Fischer says.

His father refused to entertain the suggestion.

“He reminded me that I had always had my head in the stars,” Fischer recalls, “and he dared me to dream.”

Even though his father died the following year, Fischer took that previous parental challenge to heart and continued to pursue his dream of becoming an Air Force pilot. He also kept his eye on his ultimate dream — becoming a NASA astronaut.

“I haven’t looked back since,” he admits.

His lifelong goal is finally set to come to fruition in April as he expects to escape Earth’s gravity and spend six months as part of the International Space Station (ISS) crew.

“I sure like driving bobcats,” Col. Fischer says of his love for the Fischer family’s construction business, “but I like driving rockets better.”

As he awaits his trip to space, Fischer admits that he thinks often of his dad and suspects the elder Fischer would be proud of his son’s latest accomplishment.

“I think he’d have thought it was OK,” he says, choking back tears.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 47

James Blair

Col. Jack Fischer (right) has been involved with the CAPCOM (capsule communicator) team for previous International Space Station missions.

PLANTING THE SEED Fischer’s passion for space comes naturally to him. His grandfather worked at the Johnson Space Center during the early years of the U.S. space program.

“I came down here [JSC] when I was 6 and just kind of fell in love with big, old rockets,” he recalls.

As he finished high school in Louisville, Colorado, Fischer knew two things — he wanted to fly and he wanted to serve his country. “It was a no-brainer, heading down to the Academy,” he admits.

Fischer says his four years at the Academy shaped who he is as a person.

“I became a man. It formed me,” he explains. “I was growing into and finding out what was truly important to me. It was the most influential four years of my entire life, and I credit it with a lot of what I’ve been able to accomplish.”

His Academy experience also helped cement his desire to become an astronaut, he adds.

Of course none of his career opportunities would have amounted to much, Fischer continues, had it not been for his astro lab partner — Linell Letendre, who now heads the Academy’s law department.

“You can throw a shout-out to Linell that I probably wouldn’t have made it through without my supremely talented lab partner,” he says with a laugh.

ASTRONAUT MATERIAL Following Academy graduation, Fischer went on to get his master’s degree in aeronautics and astronautics from 48 · usafa.org

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Then it was off to pilot training.

“I grew up in Strike Eagles at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base (North Carolina) and Mountain Home in Idaho,” Fischer notes. He served two combat tours in Southwest Asia during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Southern Watch.

He eventually became a test pilot, flying more than 50 different aircraft. He later was chosen an Air Force intern in Washington, D.C., and served rotations under the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the undersecretary of Defense for Acquisitions, Technology and Logistics.

“From there, I was supposed to deploy to Iraq for a year,” Fischer recalls. But instead, in 2009, he received a phone call that would change the trajectory of his career and fulfill his dream of going to space.

A few weeks before deploying, Fischer was at home unwinding with his family and getting ready to head overseas.

He had recently completed a yearlong astronaut program screening process with NASA and was waiting to see if he’d gain a coveted spot.

“I picked up the phone, and my wife kind of looked at me — does it look like his dreams are shattered or is this a good look?” Fischer laughs. “She determined this was a good look. I’m actually talking to the chief of the office, and we’re jumping up and down and I’m trying to cover the phone.

We’re all hugging — my wife and two daughters — and my little beagle is just jumping on his hind legs around us. It was a pogo stick of excitement.”

THE LONG WAIT As a member of the 20th NASA astronaut class, Fischer would spend approximately two years in initial training. He went on to work at Mission Control as a capsule communicator.

He also helped support Soyuz and space station operations in a variety of roles. But Fischer would have to wait more than seven years to realize his own space-launch opportunity.

Eventually, Fischer was assigned to the Expedition 52/53 crew scheduled to launch in June 2017. His assignment shifted ahead to Expedition 51/52 with a April 2017 launch after Russia decided to scale back its commitment to the International Space Station crew.

Since 2009, the space station has been home to six astronauts at a time, with three members rotating off with each new launch.

Because of the expense involved with each additional crewmember, Russia decided to send just one cosmonaut this March.

Because of his extensive training as a flight engineer in the Soyuz spacecraft, Fischer was selected to head to the space station early. Fischer admits that it’s slightly more complicated to pilot the Soyuz with two crewmembers rather than three, but he doesn’t expect any hiccups.

“We’ll get along just fine,” he says. “Most of the systems on the Soyuz are designed to be run by two people.”

Fischer and cosmonaut Fyodor Yurchikin, mission commander and veteran of four previous trips to space, will join three crewmembers who have been at the space station for several months.

NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, Russia’s Oleg Novitskiy and Europe’s Thomas Pesquet will round out the five-person crew for the first several months of Fischer’s mission. Whitson, Novitskiy and Pesquet will be replaced by Sergey Ryazansky (Russia), Randolph Bresnik (U.S.) and Paolo Nespoli (Italy) later in June.

Fischer and Yurchikin have been training together for their ISS mission for about two years, and Fischer says they are ready to rock and roll.

“We’re an old married couple,” Fischer jokes. “We’ve gotten pretty good at working together. That is one of the hardest things in training — gelling as a team.”

TEAM WORK It’s been slightly more than 40 years since the first ApolloSoyuz mission helped kick off the valuable space partnership among Russia (then the Soviet Union), the United States and other participating countries.

To commemorate their upcoming expedition, Fischer and Yurchikin adopted an “unofficial” patch that recalls the importance of that first Apollo-Soyuz mission.

Under the theme “One Team Exploring Together,” the patch captures the cooperative spirit that has helped make the International Space Station such a huge success.

“The space station is arguably the best example of international cooperation in the history of mankind,” Fischer

“IT’S PROBABLY THE MOST EXCITING TIME IN MY LIFETIME, BECAUSE WE’RE ABOUT TO MAKE SOME BIG STEPS ... WE HAVE MORE GOING ON NOW IN SPACE THAN WE HAVE HAD IN DECADES.”

Soyuz 51S Astronaut Jack Fischer (right) and Stan Love during INC-51/INC-52 ISS EVA MAINT 1.

James Blair

proclaims. “Fyodor and I feel extremely lucky to be a part of that tradition. We’re part of a huge team of thousands of people across the globe that make space flight a reality.”

Fischer says he’s also excited about what the immediate future holds for space exploration and research.

“It’s probably the most exciting time in my lifetime, because we’re about to make some big steps,” he comments. “We have more going on now in space than we have had in decades.”

RESEARCH EFFORTS During their six months in space, Fischer and Yurchikin will be involved in nearly 300 experiments and scientific research projects.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 49

On the to-do list are experiments dealing with propulsion technology and high-tech workout equipment that will allow astronauts to stay fit during lengthy trips.

“We’re trying to figure out how to send astronauts all the way to Mars,” he explains.

Additional experiments will relate to advancements in medicine, the formation of perfect protein crystals, synthetic bone technology and testing of a newly developed Russian space suit.

“We are trying to benefit humanity by studying everything from medicines to new production techniques,” Fischer explains. “I look forward to having the opportunity to be a part of something bigger and to contribute something back to society.”

As the space station orbits the planet, the ISS crewmembers also will continue to record measurements related to changes in the Earth’s atmosphere and climate.

In addition, the crew will be spending time preparing the space station for future commercial flights to the ISS planned

by Boeing and SpaceX.

Jack Fischer (right) is pictured during his U.S. Air Force Academy days next to his grandfather.

LAUNCH DATE Sometime mid to late April, Fischer and Yurchikin will launch from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. It will take about six hours to complete the trip and dock with the space station. (An alternative profile takes as much as two days to reach the ISS.) Fischer says he expects to be pretty busy while orbiting the Earth. But one goal he hopes to achieve while in space is to participate in a spacewalk.

“That would be the ultimate,” he admits.

Otherwise, he just hopes to have enough free time to drink in the experience and use his good fortune to inspire young people who want to pursue careers in space exploration.

“I want to help spread the gospel of flight,” he says. “I think we’re at a very pivotal moment in our history as spacefaring people. I want to do everything I can to help that along.”

In the final weeks leading up to his launch, Fischer says he’s been too busy to think much about his upcoming sixmonth adventure. But he expects to get a little emotional, and think about his dad, when lift-off finally occurs.

“I look forward to the moment when we light the candle and get booking up to space and I get a look out the window for the first time,” he says. “I think that’s when it will really sink in.”

ACADEMY ROOTS Fischer returned to the Academy for his 20th class reunion this past fall. He says the visit gave him a chance to reflect 50 · usafa.org

Submitted Photo

on how his time as a cadet propelled him into a varied and rewarding career, and how his Academy roots have served him well over time.

He says he was fortunate to connect with a few cadets during reunion weekend and that interaction helped motivate him even more.

“Every time I talk to cadets, it just reaffirms my faith in the future of our country,” he says. “That we have young men and women of that caliber still dedicating their lives to service.

It was a good recharge of the batteries before the final home stretch before launch.”

What does he tell cadets who seek to follow in his footsteps?

“It’s important for you to find something that you’re passionate about and follow it with everything you have,” Fischer says.

He enjoyed being a fighter pilot and test pilot and would have been “happy as a clam” if he never had the opportunity to join NASA’s astronaut crew.

But being prepared for new challenges, along with a little bit of luck, can open doors when you least expect it, Fischer adds.

“I was just lucky enough to be at the right place at the right time,” he notes.

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2016

GRADUATES 54 · usafa.org

Previous page, from left: Gen. (Ret.) George Lee Butler, Gen. (Ret.) Charles R. Holland, Mr. Robert David Yost, Col. (Ret.) Gary Payton

The United States Air Force Academy and the Association of Graduates are proud to announce the winners of the 2016 Distinguished Graduate Award. The award recognizes Academy graduates whose distinctive contributions to our society and nation have set them apart from other graduates. Gen. (Ret.) George Lee Butler ’61, Gen. (Ret.) Charles R. Holland ’68, Robert David Yost ’69 and Col. (Ret.) Gary Payton ’71 will receive their individual awards at a formal presentation during the annual Academy Founders Day banquet on Friday, April 7, 2017.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 55

George Lee Butler Class of 1961

DISPLAYED ON THE WALLS of Gen. (Ret.) George Lee Butler’s garage are plaques, honors and memorabilia from a life well lived. His wife, Dorene, calls it the “Butler Museum.”

But it’s not the only room in the Laguna Beach, California, home dedicated to reminders of Butler’s path from USAFA cadet to eventual four-star general responsible for the nation’s nuclear arsenal.

On shelves in the family room are displayed a progression of headgear worn by Butler ’61 throughout his military career — his dress whites cadet hat, his pilot helmet and his Air Force officer’s hat from his years of career advancement.

In the living room, an impressive Oriental display cabinet protects a delicate piece of glassware given the Butlers by former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev.

Elsewhere in the house, family pictures, historic artifacts, military medals and books tracing the history of our nation’s military are on full display.

It’s interesting to note that the collection of memorabilia may never have been assembled — including the medal Gen. Butler is about to receive as a 2016 Distinguished Graduate of USAFA — if it were not for the investment of just two bits 50 years ago.

Opportunity Knocks The son of a career Army soldier, Butler was used to the nomadic lifestyle of a military brat. Whenever his father was deployed overseas, including during World War II and Korea, the Butlers would retreat to the small town of Oakland, Mississippi, to live with relatives.

Educational and athletic opportunities in the rural community were sparse, as Butler grappled with what his future would hold. But one day, a visit to the town’s Post Office would imprint on his brain a thought that would later change his life.

Right next to the FBI’s Most Wanted list was a new poster.

“It was a big, beautiful white poster with someone in a blue uniform, saluting the American flag … beyond which four airplanes were passing. And it said ‘Welcome to the United States Air Force Academy.’” Butler didn’t give the poster much thought at the time.

In a stroke of luck, Butler’s father returned to the States and was assigned to the Pentagon as Butler was readying for his senior year in high school. Suddenly, he found himself at one of the best public high schools in the nation.

“I went from a class of 21 to a class of 721,” he laughs.

Butler enrolled in numerous advanced classes, quickly improving his academic standing. He would end up ranking fourth in his class upon graduation — one spot short of being recognized as a valedictorian.

56 · usafa.org

“

Butler had also been elected treasurer of the school’s student council, and he fared well as the coxswain on the school’s championship rowing team. His extracurricular success and his academic prowess would pay dividends as he began to think about college.

Because his family had limited financial resources to pay for college, Butler would recall the Post Office poster he had seen some months earlier. He informed his father that he wanted to apply to the Air Force Academy, but Butler’s father said there was no such place. “I said I was pretty sure there was an Air Force Academy now,” Butler recalls. “He checked and there was.”

Butler’s father filled out the application for his son’s congressional appointment, and some weeks later the acceptance letter would arrive. Butler was directed to attend a week of testing at a nearby military base.

Milk Money When Butler arrived on a Monday, he was put through a battery of tests to see if he was physically, academically and mentally prepared to become a cadet. He encountered no issues during the first two days of testing — until he stepped on the scale.

“I was at 110, which I had weighed for a very long time,” Butler reports. The minimum weight for a cadet candidate of that height, it turns out, was 115 pounds. The physician deemed Butler “unqualified” and threw his folder in the discard pile.

In a panic, Butler pleaded to have until Friday to get his weight up. “He agreed to this ridiculous request,” Butler says.

He contacted his father, who put him in contact with the base mess sergeant. The sergeant concocted a plan to feed Butler every waking moment over the next few days.

“By Friday morning I weighed 115 pounds,” he recalls. “I did not want to move.”

As he arrived at the test site, Butler realized that he still had one more physical test to complete prior to his weigh-in. Two hours later, he had dropped two pounds.

“You still don’t meet the standard. Disqualified,” the doctor proclaimed.

As Butler sat in the waiting area, distraught over the turn of events, a clerk asked what the problem was. When he heard Butler’s story, the airman gave the cadet prospect a quarter and told him to walk down the hall and buy a quart of chocolate milk.

“I’m thinking, ‘my life is ending and I’m buying chocolate milk for this young fellow,’” he says. “I brought it back and handed it to him. He said the milk wasn’t for him, it was for me.”

The weight of a quart of milk is two pounds exactly. Butler chugged the contents of the carton and the clerk asked for one more weigh-in. Butler registered at exactly 115.

“I was at 110, which I had weighed for a very long time.” The minimum weight for a cadet candidate, it turned out, was 115 pounds.

The physician deemed Butler “unqualified” and threw his folder in the discard pile.

“The doctor pulled my folder out of the discards for the third time and marked qualified,” Butler says with a smile.

One regret Butler has to this day is he failed to catch the name of the helpful airman who gave him the quarter.

“He determined the course of my life,” Butler says. “He is someone whom I owe an enormous amount for taking that kind of merciful act on my behalf.”

Lowry Beginnings In 1957, Butler arrived at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver to begin his Academy training. He and his classmates were met by kindly sergeants who made sure each cadet candidate had the uniforms and gear they needed.

Then Monday morning came, Butler remembers, and upperclassmen took over the training of the cadet candidates.

“About that point, the world as we knew it ended,” Butler notes. “It’s hard to remember exactly what happened after that.

My mind kind of went blank. I do remember the panic that some of my classmates were sent into.”

Because Butler was the smallest person in the Class of 1961, it didn’t take long for him to become a mark for several upperclassmen.

“Three upperclassmen decided I was not fit material for the Air Force and decided they would drive me out,” he recounts. “By the end of the month of September, I was within one demerit of mandatory rejection.”

Thankfully, Butler was recruited for the Falcon gymnastics team and he was proving himself as an accomplished trampolinist. One day, during practice, he injured himself while attempting a difficult move.

“I hit my eye with my knee and I kind of knocked myself out,” he says. “I broke my eye open and I was rushed off to the hospital.”

Despite the injury, Butler promptly returned the next day to successfully master his routine.

“That night at dinner, the hazing stopped. There was nothing,” Butler says. “I ate a meal without interruption for the first time at the Air Force Academy.”

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 57

Apparently, Butler’s squadron commander appreciated the Doolie’s “never quit” attitude and called off the attack dogs.

Learning Leadership Butler’s remaining cadet years were productive and eventful. He would do well academically and athletically, and he would even go on to complete Army jump school for good measure.

During his senior year, Butler was chosen squadron commander for Cadet Squadron 13. When selected for the duty, Butler told his air officer commanding that his goal was to lead the squadronmates to Honor Squadron status.

It was Butler’s first chance to unveil his unconventional leadership approach of treating people “with dignity and respect, and to always do and say the right thing.”

Butler says he was committed to treating his team well, including the fourth-classmen, and inspire all to tackle their collective mission with excellence.

“I watched classmates being forced out of the Academy for preposterous reasons … reasons that were someone else’s twisted vision of what an Academy graduate should be, or in some cases just for fun and games,” he says. “That was just so unacceptable to me.”

Not everyone appreciated Butler’s approach, so he would ask to re-assign cadets who hung onto the culture of hazing that existed throughout the Academy.

“Everybody eventually bought into it,” he recalls. “I was so proud of my classmates who signed up for this, too.”

By the end of the first semester, 13th Squadron had ascended to the top of the rankings. Butler’s leadership style had been so impressive that he stayed on as squadron commander for an additional semester.

“By the age of 20 or 21, I now had an outlook on life,” he says.

“I had an outlook on personal relations that involved responsibility, hierarchy and subordination to higher order. And, most importantly, a responsibility to the mission.”

Early Career Butler would graduate 12th in his class of 221 Academy cadets.

That year, 11 graduates were recognized as distinguished graduates.

“So I was the first of the non-distinguished graduates in my class,” he laughs. “At that point, my opportunities to lead were cut to zero for the next 20 years. I didn’t have the term commander after my name until I took command of my first B-52 wing. That had been my goal my entire AF career … I wanted to be in the lead again.”

After he was commissioned, Butler would head to Williams Air Force Base for pilot training where he finished first in his class. He later became an instructor pilot as the Cuban Missile Crisis put the nation on edge.

Butler survived one major scare while training young pilots.

A mechanical failure forced him and the student pilot to eject moments before the airplane crashed. Despite being well below the minimum altitude for ejection, Butler survived with just a knick on his knee.

In 1964, Butler was chosen for the prestigious Olmstead Scholar program and studied international relations at the Institute of Political Science in Paris for two years.

Butler next spent a year (1968-69) in Vietnam, serving two assignments. He flew 50 combat missions in F-4s and survived a refueling incident that forced his backseater and him to eject over the South China Sea. He then served as aide to the commander 58 · usafa.org

of the 7th Air Force, Gen. George S. Brown, who would later become chief of staff of the Air Force.

“We had a relationship that would turn out to be very advantageous long term,” Butler says.

When he returned to the States, Butler would become an instructor with the Political Science Department at USAFA. During his time at the Academy, he would conduct an honor scandal investigation and would write a report to help restore integrity and excellence to the institution. He also would become involved in helpng grow the new Association of Graduates — at the time a fledgling organization serving the graduates of his alma mater.

After later serving for six months in the executive office of the U.S. president, Butler would head to the next stage of his storied career.

“One unique aspect of the way my career proceeded was how varied my various missions were,” Butler notes.

In Command Butler would leave the Academy to become the chief pilot with a C-141 squadron.

From 1969 to 1977, Butler was promoted below the zone to major, lieutenant colonel and colonel. By the end of that period, he was an action officer on the Air Staff with major responsibilities for strategy, policy, plans, weapons system acquisition and Congressional interaction.

“I became the chief fire-putter-outer,” Butler explains. “It’s a crisis … send Butler. Write the report and let’s get on with the next one. At the end of that tour, I was almost a physical mess. I was so worn out.”

When approached about his next tour, Butler told superiors that he wanted an assignment within Strategic Air Command.

SAC rarely brought in outsiders to lead, but Butler was determined. He had a little help from Gen. George S. Brown to give him an opportunity at a SAC job.

His first assignment was as a B-52 wing deputy commander for operations. It was his first opportunity to lead in two decades, and he brought his “treat them with dignity and respect” philosophy with him. He next directed the Air Force Chief of Staff’s staff group before returning to SAC to command a B-52 and then a B-1 wing.

Following promotion to brigadier general, he became SAC Inspector General. When he was promoted to major general, Butler would return to the Air Staff for a third tour. before moving on to the Joint Staff. As a three-star J5, he worked closely with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Colin Powell, to help plan for significant changes in military strategy as the end of the Cold War approached.

“We worked together extremely well,” Butler says of Powell. “We both had exactly the same vision of where history was taking us.”

Nuclear Deterrence As a key component of his strategy for change, Butler envisioned a re-imagining of Strategic Air Command. When he was promoted to four stars and was assigned as commander of SAC, Butler was in a position to act.

Pictured in 1983, George Lee Butler was then commander of the 320th Bomb Wing at Mather AFB. “It was like giving a kid an ice cream cone on a hot summer’s day,” Butler recalls. “You talk about being prepared for a job.

There was nothing I didn’t know. I knew the nuclear mission.

I had this.”

He and his team worked to stand down the organization and replace it with the new United States Strategic Command. The birth of STRATCOM also spawned other changes within the Air Force, leading to the creation of Air Mobility Command and Air Combat Command.

“The whole Air Force had been affected by this proposal,” Butler says.

As STRATCOM ramped up, Butler started laying the groundwork for discussions about nuclear disarmament in a post-Cold War world. He would invite his Soviet counterparts to Omaha to discuss such matters over dinner.

Once STRATCOM was on stable footing, Butler retired and allowed his Navy deputy to step into the top role.

“I’d done everything that I could do … to give some initial feet to the race ahead,” he admits. “I felt good about what I had contributed. I was going into retirement warmhearted and optimistic about getting on with the reduction of nuclear arsenals.”

Speaking Out Butler had hoped that nuclear arms reduction would quickly occur as the Cold War ended, but he wasn’t satisfied with the speed of the change.

He and his wife, Dorene, formed the Second Chance Foundation to carry forth the message that nuclear arms reduction was necessary for the future of the planet.

As a civilian, Butler went on to become president of Kiewit Energy Group in Omaha, Nebraska. But he also would continue to advocate for global arms control efforts.

Soviet Gen. Igor Sergeyev (left) meets with Gen. George Lee Butler (right) meet at Offutt AFB to discuss nuclear deterrence.

“I was going to try and help that conversation along,” he notes.

“We (the U.S. and Russia) had a responsibility, since we owned over 90 percent of all nuclear warheads ever made.”

Butler would eventually meet and work with Mikhail Gorbachev on their similar goals of disarmament of the super powers.

To this day, Butler enjoys collaborating with other advocates for responsible nuclear disarmament.

“Young people are beginning to see what this is all about,” he says. “But it (nuclear disarmament) is hardly on the radar anymore. It’s all about climate change.”

Gratitude After finishing just outside of the “distinguished” category at his high school and USAFA graduations, Butler says he’s grateful for being named a 2016 Distinguished Graduate by the Association of Graduates and the Academy.

“Someone has finally had a conversation that I did spend my life doing quasi-notable things,” he smiles. “It gives me a great deal of pleasure to have the Academy say back to me, ‘We think you’re great.’”

Butler specifically thanked his wife, whom he met at a gymnastics meet in California while he was a cadet, for her love and support through the years.

And he acknowledges the leadership philosophy that he developed as a cadet squadron commander at USAFA — and the quarter investment by an unknown airman — for blazing the path that would lead to career opportunities that surprised him at every turn.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 59

Gen. (Ret.)

Charles R. Holland Class of 1968

AS A CHILD GROWING UP in the mountains of West Virginia, Gen. (Ret.) Charles R. Holland ’68 witnessed the harsh realities of rural life.

The chores were never ending on the Holland family farm — milking cows, taking care of chickens, planting Christmas trees to sell during the holidays and tending to the crops.

“You never knew what was going to happen with the crops and you couldn’t control the weather,” Holland recalls. “Seeing my uncles — with raccoon eyes — coming out of the mines, and I had uncles who worked with the railroads, which was a tough business. I knew there had to be better options for me.”

Holland headed to West Virginia University to pursue a chemical engineering degree. During his freshman year, Holland signed up for the school’s ROTC (reserve officer’s training corps) program. That’s when he seriously thought about attending the United States Air Force Academy and taking advantage of its world-class education.

The next summer, Holland departed on his first ever airplane flight aboard a DC-3 to enroll at USAFA and pursue a degree in aeronautical engineering.

“I can guarantee you, there was no way I could anticipate the life change that would result,” he smiles.

Holland would go on to enjoy a long Air Force career, including numerous special operations assignments and a stint with the newly emerging Space Shuttle program. His successes along the way led to his selection as a 2016 Distinguished Graduate.

Heeding the Call Born and raised in the Methodist Church, Holland says his parents instilled in him a solid sense of “right and wrong.”

His religious instruction also led to a Bible passage that would help inspire and guide him through each step of his career.

“Isaiah 6:8 says, ‘Here am I, Lord, send me,’” he notes. “Our nation was at war, and when that call came, we answered it.”

That commitment to serve his country, no matter the cost, came easier for Holland because of the example set by those who answered the call before him.

Holland’s table commandant when he was a Doolie was Lance P. Sijan ’65, the Academy’s only Medal of Honor recipient so far.

“I have great respect for what he accomplished,” Holland says.

“Sijan was an inspiration to us all.”

Holland and his classmates also revered Karl Richter ’64, whose F-105 was shot down over North Vietnam in 1967. Holland was privileged to be part of the honor flight to recognize 60 · usafa.org

Richter when the aviator was later buried at the U.S. Air Force Academy Cemetery.

“When you think about Karl, he had already completed 100 missions and he volunteered for another 100. He was shot down on his 198th mission,” Holland recalls. “Truth be told, there were probably a lot of sorties that he didn’t count because he wanted to continue to be in combat.”

A third Air Force officer who helped mold Holland’s warrior ethos was Maj. Jack Espenshied, the Air Officer Commanding for Cadet Squadron 21 when Holland was at USAFA. Espenshied would go on to fly combat missions in Vietnam and was shot down in 1969. He was listed as “missing in action” for many years, until his remains were returned to the U.S. in 1988.

“Maj. E imparted to us our sense of duty, our sense of responsibility and our sense of commitment,” he says. “He was an inspired leader, and very much a motivator.

“When you think about integrity, service before self and excellence in all we do … and then you combine that with the Honor Code … it’s a very powerful message. And I was witnessing all these people who answered the call.”

For Maj. E’s role, the Blackjack Squadron of 1968 established the annual Espenshied Award for the cadet who has done the most to promote the spirit of camaraderie among each year’s graduating Blackjack class.

Key Lessons As a member of the Falcon basketball team, Holland would learn important lessons about being part of a team.

“We don’t go alone on this path,” he explains. “It takes all of us working together to accomplish a mission. When you’re at the Academy, it’s all about the team.”

Holland would go on to serve as the team captain during his senior year.

As a cadet, the importance of time management, focus and commitment also proved to be key lessons.

“Maj. E had always stressed that, no matter what the task is that you take on, do it to the best of your ability,” Holland shares.

“I don’t care if you’re hanging toilet paper. You be the best toilet paper hanger that there is.”

To help inspire and mentor future leaders of the Air Force, Holland would later return to the Academy to pass on the legacy of service — landing aircraft on the Terrazzo and providing the cadets with flight orientations to include official authorized jumps out of Special Operations aircraft, as well as providing aero research projects for the cadets. These opportunities gave the cadets a better sense of the important missions available to them, he says. Holland returned as a guest speaker at USAFA on numerous occasions as well.

Graduation Time Holland and his classmates found themselves in the midst of tumultuous times as they prepared to graduate from the Academy in 1968. Martin Luther King was assassinated in April, and

protests over the U.S.’s involvement in the Vietnam conflict were heating up.

Holland recalls that most of his classmates knew they would be going to Southeast Asia in some capacity, and many were on edge as their Air Force careers kicked off.

Then, on June 5 (graduation day), presidential candidate Bobby Kennedy was shot and killed. Vice President Hubert Humphrey was scheduled to give that day’s USAFA commencement address, but he had to cancel.

“It was very sobering when you think about what was happening with the war in Vietnam and the role that we would be playing,” Holland says. “All of us had our first assignments, and my first assignment was to go to pilot training.”

When he arrived at pilot training, Holland found that half the class came from the Academy. The fellow grads partnered together to form study groups.

“We made sure we did everything we could so that all of us would graduate and have the opportunity to serve our nation,” he says.

Holland would land a C-130 assignment to Dyess Air Force Base in Texas, where he participated in numerous rotations to Europe and was checked out as a special air warfare pilot.

He then was selected to pilot the AC-130, a heavily armed gunship that conducted armed reconnaissance and troops-incontact missions.

Just before heading to Royal Thai AFB, Holland returned to West Virginia for the holidays. He would receive word that an AC-130 had been shot down and the entire 14-man crew perished.

“That was a real wake-up call for me,” he admits. “My mother asked me, ‘You’re just flying C-130’s, right?’ I said, ‘Mom, don’t worry.’ I did not want her to associate me with the AC-130.”

His first mission in combat ended up being one of Holland’s most eventful. He was participating in his “dollar ride” — an opportunity to simply ride along to see how the gunship crew operated — when the gunship came under heavy enemy fire.

Holland was certain the plane would be shot down.

“And I had told my mother that I was coming back,” he laments. Thankfully, the airplane made it back safely.

Holland would go on to complete more than 100 combat missions, of which 79 were flown in the AC-130 during the Southeast Asia War. “In fact, I was the second to the last gunship out of Cambodia on 15 August 1973,” he recalls. “The commander was the last guy out.”

“It was very sobering when you think about what was happening with the war in Vietnam and the role that we would be playing. ... All of us had our first assignments, and my first assignment was to go to pilot training.”

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New Horizons At the end of the war, Holland agreed to remain in Southeast Asia to help lead a highly classified “punishment” raid with three AC-130s. As it turned out, senior officials didn’t have the stomach to carry out the raid.

By the time Holland was ready to return to the States, there were no pilot slots available at Hurlburt Field. “There was no room for me at the inn,” he explains.

Holland volunteered for a consecutive overseas tour instead.

He would become an air operations staff officer at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, which included planning and directing special operations training missions in Europe.

As the Air Force drew down its pilot numbers after the war, fewer flying jobs were available. Some of Holland’s classmates decided to leave the military and become commercial pilots.

But Holland received a letter from the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) asking if he would be interested in pursuing his master’s degree in astronautical engineering.

“I had been out of anything dealing with engineering for almost nine years at this point,” he remembers. “I really took a long time to think through that.”

Despite recommendations from several trusted advisors to reject the offer, Holland agreed to accept the challenge.

“I flashed back to the ‘Eagle & Fledglings’ statue at the Academy and what’s written on there,” Holland says. “‘Man’s flight through life is sustained by the power of his knowledge.’ I decided to do it.”

He found himself in class with recent USAFA graduates and other new Air Force officers who had had much more experience in computers and the latest technology than he had.

In the end, he fared well in the course of study.

“I give credit to disco,” he laughs. “The young guys knew they had these old guys in the class. They were sure we’d get the curve down. They went out … but all of us felt the pressure of the younger guys. My career was on the line.”

Space Race After finishing his masters, Holland would head to the Space Shuttle Flight Operations Branch at Los Angeles Air Force Station. He would head up a survivability study, helping determine the potential vulnerabilities of the fledgling Space Shuttle Program.

“I thought that was a pretty daunting task,” he admits. “But we were able to put this in such a way that made sense.”

He eventually had a chance to go to Johnson Space Center, Vandenberg Air Force Base and Kennedy Space Center as part of the planning process for the Shuttle.

Later, he would be assigned to CX (corporate plans), prioritizing budget expenditures for the nation’s satellite programs. He helped to move global positioning system (GPS) technology to the front of the line for funding.

“GPS was pretty much at risk,” he remembers. “Nobody really believed in it. The relevance of GPS was something that was debated during that time.”

During Desert Storm, however, the proof of what GPS could bring to the fight was realized.

Holland would later be inducted into the AFIT Hall of Fame for his impact on space policies and technology.

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Command Central After proving his worth, Holland was asked about his interest in becoming a executive officer. He balked at the idea.

“I’m not an exec,” he told his superiors. “I’m an engineer; I’m a pilot. I didn’t know anything about administrative duties. However, the commander gets a vote, and Lt. Gen. Henry, said ‘Holland you’ve got the job and you’re also my T-39 instructor pilot.’”

Afterwards, Holland was selected to become the commander of the 21st Tactical Airlift Squadron in the Philippines, which had a SOLL (Special Operations Low-Level) II mission.

Then he would go on to numerous special operations command positions, including commander of Air Force Special Operations Command at Hurlburt Field, Florida, and his final assignment as commander of U.S. Special Operations Command at MacDill Air Force Base.

Under Pressure According to Holland, modern day special operations can trace their beginnings back to Operation Eagle Claw (Desert One) in 1980, when U.S. forces attempted to rescue 53 Americans taken hostage in Iran. The operation did not go well.

“There is a SOF (Special Operations Forces) truth,” Holland explains. “You cannot develop competent SOF after the emergency has occurred.”

The U.S. had drawn down its armed forces in the years following Vietnam, but then the world started changing, Holland recalls. When the hostage crisis occurred, our nation was ill-prepared to respond in an effective way.

“You can’t just turn SOF on and off,” he explains. “You need to have SOF resourced, they need to be trained and they need to be ready at a moment’s notice.”

Preparation for special operations missions suddenly changed.

Special operations forces would go on to be involved in Grenada, Just Cause (leading to the capture of Manuel Noriega), Desert Storm, Mogadishu, Haiti, Kuwait, the Balkans and more.

Some of the key missions that Holland’s teams undertook were the rescues of Lt. Col. Dale Zelko ’81 in Yugoslavia in 1999; and Lt. Col. David “Fingers” Goldfein ’84, the current chief of staff of the Air Force, in Serbia in 1999. Lt. Col. Steve Laushine ’80 was a helicopter mission commander on both rescues.

Following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, SOF teams would be among the first boots on the ground in Afghanistan and Iraq. In the early stages of the Afghan conflict, Holland’s special ops teams conducted 27 missions of the size and complexity of Desert One, and all of them were extremely successful.

“We had really become a mature force,” he says of his fellow SOF warriors.

Civilian Duties After retiring from the Air Force in November 2003, Holland would stay involved in preparing U.S. forces for modern warfare, conducting various war games around the globe.

“Everything we do is joint, combined and interagency,” he notes. “That’s really the equation for success.”

The goal is to help the military to constantly improve and to identify new technologies that will continually keep the U.S. a step ahead in a changing world, he explains.

“We need to be prepared so that our soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines can come back and fight another day,” he says. “I never love a fair fight. I want our teams to have the comparative advantage.”

That’s why Holland is upbeat about the addition of the F-35 to the nation’s weapons platforms. He says the fifth generation fighter will help deter enemies from challenging the U.S. in conflict, while providing an offensive capability in an A2/AD (area access/aerial denial) environment.

“If the adversary doesn’t understand our ability to deter and fight, then we’re going to be facing an enemy in our own homeland,” he explains. “In the business that I’ve been in, I always like away games rather than home games.”

In addition to war game planning, Holland also has been a strong supporter of the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a non-profit that provides scholarships for the children of SOF personnel who die in combat or in training. The foundation also helps families with expenses when special operations personnel are severely injured.

Acknowledgements Holland says he was “very humbled” when he learned that he was chosen as a Distinguished Graduate.

“I’m a behind-the scenes individual,” he says of his discomfort with being singled out. “It’s how I’ve always worked. It’s what we do, as we (SOF warriors) work out of the shadows.”

He says he’s worked for and with many previous Academy Distinguished Graduates in the past — among them Gen. Ron Fogelman, Gen. H.T. Johnson, Gen. Mike Loh, Gen. Ron Yates, Gen. Mike Ryan, Gen. Ed Eberhart, Gen. Speedy Martin, Gen. Bill Looney and Gen. Chilli Chilton.

“These people were in the big leagues,” Holland says. “Even being considered in that league is a real honor for me.”

Holland says there is no measuring the support he received and felt from his wife Nancy during his career. He singles her out for praise as he accepts the DG honor.

“I think back during my time in special ops and the times I couldn’t tell her where I was going, how long I would be gone and that I wouldn’t be able to contact her,” he says. “She kept the home fires burning with our two sons — of which the older son, Chuck, graduated from Blackjack ’99 and after graduation married his wife Sharon, who was from Blackjack ’98. And our younger son, Justin, pursued his engineering degree through MIT. After 43 years of marriage … those are very important aspects of what life is all about.”

Holland also thanked his classmates in Blackjack 21 for their support and encouragement through the years.

“All of those people really made a difference in my life, and I dedicate this honor to them,” he concludes.

Gen. Charles Holland (right) participates in a pass in review of the troops in Seongnam, South Korea. Holland was the first U.S. flag officer to be deputy commander of the Combined Unconventional Task Force.

Gen. Charles Holland (left) met up with his nephew, Command Sgt. Maj. Tim Coop, in Afghanistan. Holland’s immediate and extended family has a long history of military service.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 63

Robert David Yost Class of 1969

THROUGHOUT HIS PROFESSIONAL CAREER, David Yost ’69 built a reputation for being a stickler when it came to limiting expenses. In fact, a 2008 Businessweek feature story about the corporate leader dubbed him “Scrimp-and-Save Dave.”

“A lot of people thought I would be offended by that,” Yost admits with a smile. “I wasn’t offended by it at all.”

As the chief executive officer of a pharmaceutical distribution company, Yost actually wore his fiscal conservatism as a badge of honor. It was a leadership approach, after all, that served him well as an Air Force officer and then as one of the nation’s top corporate executives.

Yost attributes his acute business sense and leadership prowess, in part, to the practical life lessons he learned at the United States Air Force Academy. They are lessons that every cadet carries with them after graduating from this esteemed institution.

As one of this year’s Distinguished Graduates, Yost says he appreciates being recognized for his professional resume as well as the support he’s shown to his alma mater over the years. He hopes his unconventional path to the annual Academy honor inspires fellow graduates and current cadets to support the institution that has given each person a distinct advantage as they pursue their career and life goals.

Modest Beginnings Fortunately for Yost — who grew up in the small town of Lewes, Delaware — he was exposed to the wonders of flight at an early age. His father was an enlisted man and early military aviator who served during World War II. The elder Yost would give young David rides in a small private airplane.

By the ninth grade, Yost decided he’d pursue an appointment to the Air Force Academy with the desire to be a pilot and pursue an Air Force career.

“My parents had limited financial resources, so that would provide an opportunity for me to get a great education,” he notes. “Going to the Air Force Academy was a big deal. I was the first person in my family ever to go to college.”

Cadet Challenge In his first few days at the Academy, Yost remembers gathering in Arnold Hall with his fellow classmates for an assembly. The speaker progressively asked the new students to stand if they were either their high school class president, captain of the football team, class valedictorian, etc.

When the list was complete, Yost was one of the few still in his seat.

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“Then they asked everybody to look to their left and look to their right,” Yost recalls, the leaders suggesting that one of those three adjacent people wouldn’t be around for long.

“I said, ‘Holy smokes, it’s going to be me,’” Yost laughs. “That was pretty sobering.”

Basic Cadet Training was a challenge, Yost recalls, and the academics during his first year were equally difficult.

“I transitioned from this little town and little school with less than 70 people in my class,” he says. “All of a sudden, I’m in a class with people who were going to be Rhodes Scholars. It was quite a transition for me.”

For most of his first year at the Academy, Yost says he battled daily doubts that he would graduate and become an Air Force officer. But things went better during the remainder of his USAFA stay.

Apart from graduation day, Yost says one of his most vivid memories from USAFA was the day of the infamous “F-105 incident.”

The cadets were in formation on the Terrazzo waiting for a flyby with several F-105s, then they eventually heard the aircraft approaching.

“You could see them heading toward us and they were almost falling out of the sky — they were flying so slowly,” he smiles.

When the aircraft were directly above the cadet area, the pilots kicked the F-105s into full afterburner.

“You could hear the glass shattering,” Yost recalls. “It seemed like the shattering of glass went on for minutes, but I’m sure it was just a matter of seconds. People began to cheer, everybody broke ranks and it turned out to be a great day of mayhem.”

Later, Yost says he found the medicine cabinet in his interior room had been sucked open and its contents were strewn across the floor.

“I’m not sure they’ve ever had a day quite as dramatic as that at the Academy since,” he says.

Lessons Learned Yost says he considers the Academy Honor Code the foundation for his personal and professional life since graduation.

“It really sowed the seeds for the way my life turned out,” he suggests.

Yost emphasizes that character, leadership and integrity are key characteristics for anyone who wants to succeed in the military or in the private sector.

Another key life lesson was “the answer to a why question,” he adds.

“I utilized ‘no excuse, sir’ a lot of times,’” he says. “It established the fact that I would be a CEO who would not give excuses.”

Time management was a huge lesson as well, he notes. Cadets have to use their time wisely or they won’t make it through.

“I’m not sure you can learn that anywhere else,” he says. “The only way you can learn that is when you don’t have enough time to sleep, you don’t have enough time to get everything done, but you have to figure it out.”

“

“All efforts are team efforts. ... You clearly learn that at the Academy. Very little of great significance happens individually. There’s a team behind the person out front, no matter how individual it may appear.”

Finally, Yost’s Academy experience taught him the value of being a team player.

“All efforts are team efforts,” he says. “You clearly learn that at the Academy. Very little of great significance happens individually. There’s a team behind the person out front, no matter how individual it may appear.”

No Go Even though Yost had hoped to become a pilot, he eventually didn’t get that opportunity.

“I was not pilot qualified, and may not have been pilot qualified when I got my appointment,” he says. “By graduation, I had bad eyes, bad ears and bad depth perception. I may not have been qualified to drive a car or a boat, but you definitely didn’t want me in an airplane.”

Yost says he was disappointed with the career detour at first, “but I dealt with it and moved on.”

After saluting President Richard Nixon at graduation, Yost went immediately to the University of California Los Angeles to attend graduate school.

“That was quite a shock and quite a culture change,” he admits. “I went from marching to breakfast to having people literally smoking marijuana in the quad.”

He’d go on to finish his masters in business administration.

“It seemed to me a logical path,” he notes.

Job One His first military assignment after finishing grad school was as a contract negotiator for Air Force Systems Command. He ended up working in reconnaissance, strike and electronic warfare. At one point, Yost was assigned to a experimental project.

“The thing that made this program unique was that it was an experiment under which the Air Force was the prime vendor,” Yost explains. “The Air Force took on the responsibility to buy each of the components … then we paid someone to put it all together.”

Leaders hoped to save money through the approach, but the experiment didn’t work because the Air Force “didn’t have one throat to throttle,” he notes.

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“So you had a lot of pointing fingers when things didn’t work out the way they expected,” Yost continues. “At the end of the day, the Air Force went back to having a prime vendor.”

The project ended up being a great training ground for a future corporate leader, however, because he was able to learn the ropes of business at a very young age. “I think that helped my confidence as I went forward,” he says.

Moving On Yost left the Air Force in 1974 after his initial five-year commitment. At the time, the military was going through a reduction in force.

“I was not rated, and I was not going to be Chief of Staff,” Yost recalls. “So I decided to take a different path. I decided to take the road less traveled by.”

Yost joined a small pharmaceutical distribution company owned by his wife’s family. He learned the ropes of the business for three years before his father-in-law died and the company was sold.

Yost landed a job with a New York Stock Exchange conglomerate and found himself on the ground floor of an emerging pharmaceutical distribution giant.

“It was a classic issue of being in the right place at the right time,” he says. “They continued to buy pharmaceutical distribution companies and I continued to have increasing responsibility.”

He would go on to become the co-chief operating officer of Alco Health Services Crop., a predecessor firm to AmeriSource Health. The company then went public in 1995.

Two years after going public, the AmeriSource Health Board of Directors fired its CEO and started discussing names of potential replacements. Yost literally found himself at the right place at the right time again. The doors to the boardroom opened and Yost happened to be walking past on his way to get coffee.

“Somebody says, ‘Hey Yost … how about Yost,’” he recalls.

“This company is so simple, probably Yost can even run the thing. It’s almost like that. And bingo, I become the CEO of a public company.”

At the time, the company had sales of $5 billion. Over the next 14 years under Yost’s leadership, the company would grow to $78 billion in sales. In 2013, Yost would be named as one of “The 100 Best CEOs in the World” by Harvard Business Review.

Merger Efforts In 2001, Yost would lead AmeriSource Health Corporation through a merger with Bergen Brunswig Corporation. At the time, the merger created the largest pharmaceutical distribution company in the world.

To celebrate the first meeting of the newly combined board of AmerisourceBergen, Yost gathered the company’s directors and top executives at the New York Stock Exchange building, just blocks from the World Trade Center, on Sept. 11, 2001.

AmerisourceBergen’s corporate flag was flying outside the Stock Exchange that day to mark the momentous day.

“We decided to have our first board meeting in the boardroom of the New York Stock Exchange, and then we’d go ring the opening bell,” he recounts. “That would be a noteworthy start for the new corporation and our new corporate life.”

Excitement turned to horror as the board’s initial meeting progressed. Word came that a plane had struck the World 66 · usafa.org

Trade Center. A short while later, the boardroom shook from the impact of a second airplane.

“Somebody said, ‘My God, we had an earthquake,’” Yost recalls. “A spokesman from the Stock Exchange came in and told us to grab everything and follow him. We went down to the trading floor of the New York Stock Exchange and were essentially locked down.”

A few hours later, Yost and his fellow AmerisourceBergen leaders left to spend the night in a nearby hotel that had no electricity or services. The next morning, they walked blocks to escape downtown Manhattan and returned via train to Philadelphia.

Some time later, AmerisourceBergen officials were invited back to the Stock Exchange to ring the bell they didn’t have the chance to ring on 9-11.

Managing Personnel While he was CEO, Yost’s first rule of being a leader had its roots in the Academy Honor Code — integrity first.

“There’s never a wrong time to do the right thing,” he explains.

“I would frequently ask the question … ‘what’s right?’ Not, ‘what’s the legal thing to do.’”

Yost’s leadership style also focused on managing the company’s bottom line. He flew coach when traveling for business, and he

David Yost attended the grand opening event for Polaris Hall at USAFA. His class was a key player in the facility’s completion.

expected everyone else on his executive team to do the same. Yost claims that leaders need to be part of the team when it comes to running an efficient and profitable business.

“I watched expenses very, very closely,” he says. “We were in a business where managing expenses was extremely important, and I wanted to do myself what I asked other people to do.”

Moving On II Yost would lead the company until 2011, deciding to retire at the top of his game. His fellow business leaders couldn’t believe his decision.

“I had accomplished what I wanted to accomplish, and I was ready for the next challenge,” Yost reports. “I was ready to step aside and let the people who I had worked with very closely, who I knew could do a good job of running AmerisourceBergen, do that. And my judgment has been validated since the company has continued to prosper with the stock price doubling over five years.”

Yost says it’s rarely a good idea for a top executive to stay in their job for more than 10 years. Usually by the end of a decade, leaders run out of ideas and energy, he notes, and it’s time to get out of the way and give others a chance to be in senior positions.

His retirement has allowed Yost to serve on the Board of Directors of various public companies, including Bank of America, Tyco International, Marsh & McLennan and Johnson Controls.

He’s been able to spend more time with his family and grandchildren as well.

With some of his extra time, Yost also has become more involved with his alma mater. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the USAFA Endowment. He was intimately involved with raising the necessary capital for the completion of Holaday Athletic Center and Polaris Hall, the new home of the Center for Character & Leadership Development.

One aspect of the CCLD that Yost is particularly proud of is his Class of 1969’s involvement with the new Honor Room. Yost says the room is extraordinary, and an appropriate focal point for the essential core values of USAFA. Yost also is a member of the 1954 Society, which honors donors who make consecutive gifts to the Academy; the Sabre Society, which recognizes gifts that benefit “margin of excellence” programs; the Guidon Society, which recognizes those who have given more than $100,000 to the Academy; and the Polaris Society, which recognizes those who establish estate gifts to benefit the Academy and its graduate community.

“I’ve spent a lot of time with the Air Force Academy since I retired, and I will tell you it’s been wonderful,” he says. “The Academy had given me the foundation upon which I was able to have some success, and I feel a great obligation to giveback. I would encourage everybody to do the same.”

In the years ahead, Yost says he plans on helping the USAFA Endowment establish a significant fund to ensure adequate resources for capital projects as well as cadet programs.

David and Jean Yost

Thank Yous Yost admits he was blown away when he was named a 2016 Distinguished Graduate.

“Without question, it was the most extraordinary honor I’ve ever had,” he says. “The big reason I was blown away was because I know many of the other distinguished graduates and I’ve read a lot of their bios. What I’ve accomplished is not even in the same league. I mean that sincerely.”

Still, Yost says he appreciates that the Association of Graduates and the Academy chose to recognize those who take a different path in life.

Yost says he’d also like to thank his wife, Jean, for her love and support through the years.

“She’s my Air Force Academy sweetheart. I met her when I was a Doolie,” he says. “She’s been by my side for the duration.”

Yost adds that he has a long list of people who supported him through the years, including many of his classmates. He thanks them all for the part they played in his career and life.

“A lot of people contributed to where I ended up,” he says.

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G ary Payton Col. (Ret.)

Class of 1971

C ADETS ENROLLED IN THE Human Spaceflight course at the United States Air Force Academy have the advantage of learning about the history of the “space race” from someone who actually lived it.

Col. (Ret.) Gary Payton ’71 is currently serving as a distinguished visiting professor in the Schriever Chair in Astronautics.

Because of his lengthy military and civilian career, Payton is able to share real-world stories and lessons learned with the next generation of Air Force leaders. And he is thoroughly enjoying the opportunity.

“When I was a cadet, we didn’t have as much insight into the real world as we yearned for,” Payton says. “Our AOCs were our main insight into the ‘real Air Force.’ Coming back here, and offering at least some of the real Air Force to the cadets, is rewarding for me.”

His contribution to the education of current cadets has not gone unnoticed. Payton was presented with the USAFA Outstanding Academy Educator Award in 2014.

“It’s voted on by your peers — the other folks that you work with hour by hour, day after day,” Payton says. “Truthfully, I was stunned. I didn’t expect anything like that.”

Payton admits that it feels like his 40-year career has come full circle now that he’s back at his alma mater. His current job gives him a chance to witness the caliber of current cadets who attend USAFA and he knows the nation is in good hands.

“The cadets are a lot better than we were, that’s for sure,” Payton suggests. “We were a lot less mature than the cadets are these days. We were 5-foot, 10-inch bags of testosterone — very competitive, very aggressive, very confident.

“They’re not like that today. They’re competitive, but they’re measured. And they know how to focus better than we did, and that’s critical.”

The level of focus is surprising, Payton says, due to the number of distractions current cadets encounter.

“We had fewer distractions when we were cadets,” Payton explains. “We had TV, cars and girls — that was fundamentally it. We had one payphone in the entire squadron.

Nowadays, of course, you’ve got Twitter, Facebook, email.

I probably wouldn’t have done nearly as well as I did if I’d had all those distractions.”

He adds that current cadets appear a bit more goaloriented than his generation.

“Everything they do day-by-day here is preparation for their eventual goal,” he notes.

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“Fortunately, my brother — who is eight years older than I am — told me about this new thing called the Air Force Academy. He said they didn’t charge tuition and, in fact, they paid you when you go there.”

Payton, too, had a few goals. But he admits he never looked far beyond his potential next assignment. Nonetheless, he would go on to develop an impressive resume that would lead to his selection as a 2016 USAFA Distinguished Graduate.

Developing Interests Payton’s parents told him he was expected to go to college, but they didn’t have money to contribute to the cause. He was going to have to find a way to pay for advanced education on his own.

His father died when Payton was in sixth grade, forcing his mother to work extra hard to support the family.

A few years prior, Russia had launched its first satellite — Sputnik — into space. Payton says he was in the right place at the right time for expanded math and science opportunities.

The “Sputnik Generation,” as he calls it, was called upon to ramp up its educational prowess and help the U.S. better compete on a global scale.

Payton would eventually take Saturday math classes and plenty of science courses to get ahead in those critical subjects, all with an eye toward improving his chances of going to college and succeeding.

“Fortunately, my brother — who is eight years older than I am — told me about this new thing called the Air Force Academy,” Payton recalls. “He said they didn’t charge tuition and, in fact, they paid you when you go there.”

As an eighth grader, Payton would research that college opportunity and decide that he would make every effort to gain an appointment. As he pursued his goal, Payton developed a keen interest in all things mechanical and military — ships, airplanes and rockets.

“When John Glenn launched, I was more interested in the Atlas rocket underneath him than the actual flight of an American around the globe,” Payton recounts.

College Boy The first time he applied to the Academy, Payton tested well academically and athletically. But unfortunately he failed his vision test — 20/20 in one eye and 20/40 in the other.

He headed off to a civilian college instead, attending for a year and involving himself in ROTC (reserve officer training corps).

During his civilian college interlude, Payton found out that eye charts used by military and civilian optom-

etrists were all the same, so he devised a plan to memorize the chart and reapply to the Academy.

“I said I was going to get in this place one way or the other,” Payton laughs. “I applied again and used my newfound skills at memorizing letters — line 9, by the way, was the right one.”

Sure enough, Payton received appointments to the Air Force Academy and the Naval Academy. He chose USAFA. In retrospect, Payton says, his single year at a civilian university prepared him well for his time as a cadet. He’d successfully “broken the apron strings” and learned how to take care of himself. Plus, he’d learned better study habits and was one step ahead academically compared to some of his fellow classmates.

With considerable assistance from his ALO (air liaison officer), Lt. Col. Ray Waeyaert, Payton says he was well prepared for the academic and mental challenges he would face in Colorado Springs.

“He was fantastic and very knowledgeable about the Academy,” he recalls. “He was very blunt about it. He said it was going to be the toughest thing you’re going to do in your entire life.”

Day One and Beyond When they first arrived at the Academy, Payton and his classmates enjoyed three days of relative quiet as they were issued combat boots and uniforms, and learned a few important facts about their time at the institution.

But on the first morning of basic cadet training, all hell broke loose.

“I’d never heard such derogatory terms ever in my prior life,” he recalls. “It was just stunning. Fundamentally, it was tear you down from what you were and then rebuild you in the mold that the Air Force needs.”

There were moments on that first day that Payton expected to quit. But after he survived the initial onslaught, he vowed to graduate and prove his worth.

“They had already taken too much away from me,” he comments. “I’m was going to earn it all back.”

In the end, he’s glad he stuck to it. “It was all worthwhile,” Payton smiles.

The key lessons he learned while a cadet were how to focus, how to follow through on a mission, how to be a follower and how to be a leader. Those lessons proved valuable at various stages of his career.

Career Goals Payton didn’t think he had much of a chance at becoming an astronaut, so he zeroed in on a career in rockets and missiles.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 69

Pictured in 1994, Gary Payton (left) during his flying days.

“That was until I got my first ride in a jet,” he recalls. “Wow, that changed my mind. But then I said, ‘why can’t I do both?

Why can’t I be an engineer on the space side of the Air Force and be a pilot, too?’”

Following graduation, Payton would head to Purdue University to pursue a master’s degree in aeronautical and astronautical engineering. Once his education was completed, Payton would marry his sweetheart, Sue, and together they headed off to pilot training in Alabama.

Payton’s most memorable lesson during pilot training came as a result of his final check ride. Despite less-than-ideal weather conditions, he agreed to take his final test. He ended up flunking.

“There was my first lesson in being too aggressive,” he recounts.

“Student pilots make that mistake all the time. I just made it on a very critical flight.”

The Final Frontier Despite the poor showing on his check flight, Payton’s first Air Force assignment was as an instructor pilot. As the post-Vietnam drawdown forced the Air Force to shed pilots, Payton then went to a nonflying job, launching military satellites on expendable launch vehicles at Cape Canaveral.

“So there I was, in rockets … finally,” he laughs.

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Payton’s job was to direct his team as they attached spacecraft on top of the different expendable launch vehicles — Titan, Atlas and Delta rockets — and prepared them for launch.

Payton says the satellite would typically arrive at Cape Canaveral 30 or 33 days before launch and the goal was always to launch on time.

“You don’t want to be the guy who holds up a launch,” Payton explains, noting that any delay would cost millions of dollars.

“So I developed a philosophy. Did we work successfully enough today to get 3 percent closer to launch? How much progress have we made today? That mentality has served me well ever since.”

Payton would then transition to a Spacecraft System Program office, before becoming a payload specialist for the relatively new Space Shuttle program.

“They invited me to join the payload specialist program,” Payton recalls. “NASA needed a larger crew than just two or three, so they designed a vehicle to hold seven. It was no longer totally about flying the vehicle. The job was on-orbit operations.”

Payton would be assigned to STS-51C, the 15th Space Shuttle flight and the first strictly military mission that was highly secretive.

“NASA had grown up in a world where the spotlight is on all the time,” he says. “Here, the military comes in the door and says, ‘you can’t talk about launch date, you can’t talk about landing date, you can’t tell anybody how high we are on orbit, and you can’t tell anybody what we’re doing on orbit.’

“We didn’t have any pre-launch press conferences, because what can you say? There were no post-launch press conferences.

It was truthfully five GIs going off to do a military mission.”

On a more personal level, Payton says the entire space experience was extremely memorable.

He noted that the launch itself “definitely gets your attention.”

“It is so loud that the whole vehicle shakes,” he explains. “If you’ve ever been at a rock concert and stood close to the speakers, and they had the amplifiers up, you can feel the noise on your body. It’s that feeling but multiplied by 100,000.”

Once the Shuttle reached orbit, Payton says he found himself in “a very benign and fun environment.”

Career Highlight Payton would go on to serve in a series of increasingly more responsible jobs at the Pentagon. During that time, Payton had the opportunity to brief President Ronald Reagan concerning progress being made within the Strategic Defense Initiative.

“That was pretty good for a little lieutenant colonel,” he laughs.

After retiring in 1995 with the rank of colonel, Payton took a job with NASA to continue his work in the space race.

The end of the Cold War meant the Air Force was no longer as interested in high-tech spacecraft, Payton notes. NASA, however, continued to pursue such technological advances.

“The high technology spacecraft that I was so committed to … the Air Force started throttling back on all that. They started throttling back on aeronautics also … all the things I was interested in,” he explains.

Payton would help develop new technologies for space, including better propulsion systems, improved turbo pumps and new test vehicles — including the X-37.

After a brief stint with the private sector’s ORBIMAGE (a commercial satellite imaging company), he would head to the Missile Defense Agency and later become the deputy undersecretary for the Air Force’s Space Programs.

“The diversity in my career, looking back on it, surprises me,” Payton admits. “How did this little boy from the Midwest end up doing this suite of diverse things. I got to do so many different, rewarding things. My main concern is … did I contribute enough?”

Full Circle Payton says he appreciates the chance to educate and inspire current cadets in his role as instructor at the Academy.

In his classes, Payton says he tries to expand his students’ knowledge of important historical figures from the Air Force’s past — Doolittle, Arnold, Schriever and the like.

Another goal is to go beyond equations and provide actual examples of how to apply the knowledge imparted at USAFA. “I am a guy who can offer those real-world experiences, both from the flying world and the space world,” he explains. “It’s a one-year job, so every year is a renewal. So I guess some day I won’t do very well and they’ll kick me out.”

In addition to his current teaching role, Payton also is involved in the Challenger Learning Centers program. The centers help encourage the younger generation to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

“When Challenger went down, I lost five friends,” Payton explains. “The families of the Challenger crew wanted something more than just ceremonies and flyovers to remember the crew.

So they started the Challenger Centers nationwide. The entire nation has finally realized that we can no longer turn our back on that kind of education. It’s fun being a part of that.”

Payton and his wife also sponsor undergraduate scholarships at Purdue University and Eastern Illinois University.

“It’s hard for me to believe that I belong in the same category of folks like Paul Kaminski or Kevin Chilton,” he says. “It’s a very humbling honor.”

He says he owes a debt of gratitude to his brother, who suggested applying to the Academy, and to his wife and daughter, who were supportive throughout his career.

“The smartest thing I ever did was marry this petite, blonde, athletic girl from the Midwest. We met on a blind date right at the end of my Doolie year,” he recalls. “Nowadays, when I say ‘we’ or ‘our’, it is really plural. We are a team, shoulder to shoulder. None of this would have been possible without her.”

He also thanks his squadron mates from the Class of 1971.

“The camaraderie that we built during the four years here is unequalled,” he says. “And we’re still dedicated to each other.”

He also credits his Second Squadron Air Officer Commanding, Maj. Gary Tompkins, for setting an early example of what an Air Force officer should be. Later retiring as a colonel, the former MISTY FAC pilot brought real world Air Force experience to his young charges.

“His leadership and his standards of excellence were something that we yearned to live up to,” he notes.

Gary and Sue Payton

A Distinguished Graduate Payton admits that he was shocked at the “totally unexpected” announcement that he would be honored as a distinguished graduate.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 71

Young Alumni

Excellence Awards USAFA grads start off their careers in impressive fashion Five USAFA graduates have been named as this year’s honorees for the Association of Graduates’ Young Alumni Excellence Award. The award recognizes graduates for exceptional professional accomplishment, whether in military or civilian life. Nominees must be within 15 years of their graduation year to be considered. This year — just the second year for the new AOG award — 13 nominations were received, and the nominees’ graduation years ranged from 2003-2011. Seven nominees remain on active duty, while six are now civilians.

The winners will be recognized at regional Founders Day banquets this spring.

By Jeff Holmquist

Maj. Andrew D. Anderson ’04 Currently working with the Global Positioning System Program Element Monitor Space Programs Directorate Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force in Washington, D.C., Anderson recently completed a White House Fellowship where he served as a special assistant to the First Lady and directed the “Joining Forces” initiative — a national program focused on the military and veterans. He previously served as a program director for the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office where he led a small team creating a highly classified system that fuses Air Force capabilities with other Department of Defense and U.S. government agency efforts supporting missions of highest national priority. His varied career as an Air Force acquisition officer has been devoted to transitioning the most advanced technologies into fielded systems that support U.S. military capabilities and in some cases civilian applications. He volunteered to deploy as an electronic warfare officer during Operation Iraqi Freedom and provided critical technical assistance to 185 roadside bomb disposal teams throughout Northern Iraq, earning the Bronze Star Medal. He then served as a flight test engineer for the Air Force Test Center and commanded a team testing combat enhancements to Air Force bomber aircraft. In this role, he was the chief test director for the recent X-51A hypersonic air vehicle program. Additionally, he was selected as an executive officer for the Air Force Scientific Advisory 72 · usafa.org

Board where he organized site visits and provided technical insight for multiple scientific assessments that informed Air Force policy decisions. He was also selected as a participant in the National Defense University’s Program for Emerging Leaders, a three-year fellowship that exposes rising government leaders to challenges of combating weapons of mass destruction. His volunteer passions include mentoring youth and young adults to become active participants in society. He is a dedicated math teacher and leadership seminar facilitator for inner-city middle school students and has volunteered with numerous homeless outreach programs. Recently, he created and led volunteer recruitment campaigns on two DC military bases to help connect service members to local volunteer opportunities. He is an avid CrossFit fitness trainer athlete and competition judge and most recently competed in the 2015 CrossFit Open.

Erin (Hannon) Biggers ’06 After graduating as a cadet squadron commander and the outstanding cadet in Political Science at USAFA, Biggers spent the next two years completing a master’s degree in public policy from University of Maryland. She attended intelligence officer training at Goodfellow AFB and finished as the “Top Graduate” in her class of 18. Stationed with the 347th Rescue Group at Moody AFB, she twice deployed with HH-60 rescue units supporting more than 1,200 combat sorties in Iraq and Afghani-

stan. Her mission reports were lauded as “the best in AFCENT.” She served as battle captain for three real-world Personnel Recovery missions returning seven to safety. After her second deployment, she was tapped to author the syllabus for ACC’s Rescue Intel formal training. She was recognized by the group commander as his #2 of 17’s, the epitome of professionalism; and a year later regarded her the #4 of 89 captains. After earning “Top Graduate” at her A-10 Intel training class, Biggers headed to Germany to support fighters at Spangdahlem AB. Shortly thereafter, and despite only being a captain, she was handpicked to return to Kandahar to be the senior intelligence officer for the wing where she supported 8,600 OEF combat missions, edited more than 6,300 mission reports and overhauled the Intel shop to improve integration with base defenders during the peak of the OEF surge. The expeditionary wing commander recognized her as his #1 of 204 CGOs. Without respite, she returned to serve as the Ops Group Executive Officer managing 450 performance reports, 144 awards packages and 11 DV visits. After years on the warpath. Capt. Biggers was stationed at Maxwell AFB where she leveraged her operational experience to shape young captains. Never settling for routine, she led the CGO Think Tank program, where she ultimately briefed the AETC/CC on mental health solutions which were implemented at Squadron Officer College. As an SOS instructor, she served as a mentor for the program. She twice was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal as a captain. Erin separated from active duty in 2014.

Erin continues to serve her country as a consultant for Matrix International, where she provides direct support to interagency operations against emerging high-priority threats. In addition, she ran marathons, completed an lronman competition and traveled the world with her husband Jarett Biggers ’03.

Maj. Priscilla Giddings ’05 Maj. Priscilla Giddings was elected in November 2016 to the Idaho House of Representatives. She unseated the incumbent in the primary and then won the general election with 70 percent of the vote.

As a first-term elected representative, she serves on the Local Government Resources & Conservation and State Affairs committees. Following her USAFA graduation, Giddings attended pilot training and was awarded an A-10 assignment. She served as one of the few female fighter pilots and deployed to CENTCOM on three combat deployments.

She followed her A-10 assignment with a career-broadening assignment flying intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. She separated from active duty, transferred to the Idaho Air National Guard and served as an air liaison

officer, before assuming her current military duties as the USAFA/ROTC Region 3 admissions liaison officer division chief. She also volunteered to resurrect a stagnant local AOG chapter and assumed the duties of president. She helped lead the chapter’s revival and helped the chapter attain its 2016 Distinguished Chapter distinction. Her civilian occupation is as a commercial/corporate/contract pilot. In addition, Giddings volunteers as a World Powerlifting Congress national referee, and she completed the Boise lronman 70.3 Triathlon in 2013.

Capt. Shaun Lee ’07 Capt. Shaun Lee currently serves as assistant director of operations for the 450th Intelligence Squadron at Ramstein Air Base, leading an 89-airman team planning and analyzing intel collection over three continents.

His team’s innovative fusion analysis techniques spurred target development and battlefield effects as part of what the Combined Forces Air Component Commander called “the most precise air campaign in history.” Testament to his team’s impact, Capt.

Lee represented his squadron at the Air Force Association receiving the Air Forces 2016 General George Kenney Award. Previously, Lee managed Air Force National-Tactical Integration, a $4 million and 178-airman Air Force intel program, and led intel training for NATO Allied Air Command. In 2012, Capt. Lee was selected to deploy to Afghanistan for a year as executive officer to the ISAF Deputy J2. While deployed, he also stood up a NATO SOF ISR team directing intel collection for coalition task forces.

He received the Bronze Star Medal and was named the Air Force ISR Agency’s 2012 ISR CGO of the Year. He completed his master’s degree in Intelligence Studies in 2010 and graduated Squadron Officer School in 2014 as the top graduate of 637 students and was presented the Commandant’s Leadership Award. Among his military awards are the 2013 NATO Allied Air Command Lance P. Sijan Leadership Award: the 2013 NATO Allied Air Command General John P. Jumper Warfighter Integration Officer of the Year honor; the 2012 NATO Allied Air Command Company Grade Officer of the Year Award; and the 2010 Air Force ISR Agency Maj. Gen. John S. Patton Outstanding Active Duty ISR Officer of the Year award. In addition to leading intel airmen, he enjoys serving the community alongside his wife Kaitlin ’07 — an Air Force pediatric dentist. Since graduating, Capt. Lee and his wife have facilitated multiple children’s dental clinics, including a weeklong trip to rural Checkpoints · March 2017 · 73

Guatemala in 2009. He also has mentored youth as part of Big Brothers Big Sisters local school visits and college fairs.

He and Kaitlin are active leaders in their church and host a weekly Bible study for 10 families.

an officer professional development conference, which was attended by CGOs from multiple Air Force bases. For his efforts, Capt. Perez earned the Lance P. Sijan Award for the Air Force District of Washington. Additionally, Capt. Perez has partnered with his brother to establish and self-fund the Perez Brothers’ Capt. Gilberto S. Perez ’07 Scholarship. Over the past decade, this scholarship has provided Capt. Gilberto S. Perez was students of Leto High School — Perez’s alma mater — the opselected by his Falcon football portunity to receive a partial scholarship to attend college. coaches to remain at USAFA post-graduation and commissioning to serve as an assistant Checkpoints coach. Gilberto was charged Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation 1. Publication title: Checkpoints with recruiting, coaching 2. Publication number: 898-080 and mentoring cadets as they 3. Filing date: Sept. 30, 2016 made the transition into 4. Issue frequency: Quarterly 5. Number of issues published annually: 4 adulthood and became leaders 6. Annual subscription price: Included in AOG USAFA membership fee (which varies). in our Air Force. Following his 7. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: Association of Graduates, United assignment at USAFA, Capt.

States Air Force Academy, 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475 8. Complete mailing address of headquarters of general business office of publisher: same as no. 7.

Perez served as a communications officer at MacDill Air Force 9. Names and addresses of publisher, editor, and managing editor—Publisher: Association of Base in Florida. While there, he graduated as the No. 1 gradu Graduates, United States Air Force Academy, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475; Editor: Jeffrey ate in Basic Communications Officer Training. He was charged Holmquist, 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475; Managing Editor: Bob McAllister, 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475 with leading 77 airmen in the operation and maintenance of 10. Owner (if the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and MacDill’s $77 million communication network. During his address): Association of Graduates, United States Air Force Academy, 3116 Academy Drive, tenure at MacDill, Capt. Perez was deployed to Bagram Air USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475 11. Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent Base in Afghanistan where he maintained combat communica or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: none. tion capability for more than 100,000 U.S. and Allied military 12. The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for personnel. Capt. Perez’s efforts were key to battlefield com federal income tax purposes have not changed during the preceding 12 months.

13. Publication name: Checkpoints. mand and control by providing an avenue for our military to 14. Issue date for circulation data below: September 2016 communicate its needs, problems and solutions. Capt. Perez’s 15. Extent and nature of circulation: efforts captured the attention of the MacDill wing commander, Average no. copies Actual no. single issue

each issue during nearest preceding 12 who in 2009 hired Perez as the 6th Air Mobility Wing execu months filing date tive officer. Capt. Perez continued his tradition of mentoring A. Total no. copies printed 31,262 32,390 (1) Mailed outside-county paid young men and women and volunteered to serve as a USAFA subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541 30,869 32,037 admissions liaison officer. Following Capt. Perez’s assignment to (2) Mailed in-county paid MacDill, he moved to Warner-Robins Air Force Base, Georgia. subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541 0 0 (3) Paid distribution outside the He was the acting squadron commander where he continued mails including sales through dealers to provide unrivaled deployable communications support to and carriers, street vendors, counter the warfighter. Additionally, he continued to positively affect sales, and other paid distribution outside USPS 60 60 lives of those around him. While attending a meeting, Perez C. Total paid distribution: 30,889 32,097 noticed an individual at his table was choking and he performed D. Free or nominal rate distribution: the Heimlich Maneuver and saved the individual’s life. These (1) Free or nominal rate outside-county copies included actions earned him the 2012 Air Force Space Command Safety 0 0 on PS Form 3541 Award. Capt. Perez earned a spot at the United States Marine (2) Free or nominal rate in-county Corps Expeditionary Warfare School. He represented our Air 0 copies included on PS Form 3541 0 (3) Free or nominal rate copies Force in such a positive manner that he was chosen to work for mailed through the USPS 0 0 the White House as a member of the White House Communi(4) Free or nominal rate cations Agency. While awaiting clearance for his job serving our 325 291 distribution outside the mail E. Total free or nominal rate distribution: 325 291 Commander-In-Chief, Capt. Perez served as the chief strategy F. Total distribution: 31,214 32,388 officer at the Joint Staff Support Center in the Pentagon. Once G. Copies not distributed: 48 2 brought aboard at the White House, Capt. Perez was charged H. Total: 31,262 32,390 I. Percent paid: 98.8 99.1 with leading a 75-person team delivering uninterrupted comI certify that all the information furnished on this form is true and complete. munications support to the president. His team also provided Jeffrey Holmquist, Senior Editor. support to the vice president, First Lady, National Security Council and numerous other agencies. Capt. Perez organized 74 · usafa.org

INTRODUCING THE

AOG USAFA APP • Get alerts for exclusive membership perks • Instant notifications about events in your area • Shop Air Force gear • Connect with graduates, parents, and supporters all around the world • And so much more!

RECALLING THE DAY

KAFA was born GRADS RECALL THE EARLY DAYS OF CADET RADIO STATION

By Steven A. Simon, ‘77

I

n early 1971, singer-songwriter Don McLean wrote and recorded one of the most iconic songs in history, “American Pie.” The song addressed the Feb. 3, 1959, death of singer Buddy Holly, describing it as “The Day the Music Died.”

While McLean was working on his masterpiece, the Air Force Academy experienced “The Day the Music Was Born.” At 6:57 p.m. on Sunday evening, Jan. 17, 1971, KAFA went on the air for the first time.

As with most great achievements, the work to get the cadet radio station up and running began years before the payoff was realized. By all accounts, the station was the brainchild of John Severski, Class of 1971. He was the driving force and the single person most responsible for KAFA getting on the air.

“I had always wanted to be a DJ and I’m sure I would have gotten into the business had it not been for my nomination to USAFA,” Severski recently recalled.

He recruited a small cadre of cadets to undertake the task. Al Leitch ’72, remembers that “... in the beginning there were four of us: John, Tom Mayberry [’73], Carl Foerster [’73], and myself that formed the ‘club’ and got the ball rolling. John was the leader, Tom had some radio experience, Carl was the electronic genius, and I was just a guy who thought the idea sounded like it would be fun, so they made me the production manager.” Mayberry had worked on Armed Forces Radio in Italy as a teenager.

Like most efforts, the KAFA project began with paperwork. Their first challenge was to get Academy officials interested in and supportive of the concept.

“I wrote up the justification for the station as a viable means for cadets to communicate and entertain,” Severski remembers, “and since West Point and Annapolis just had closed circuit AM stations, I pushed for us to have an on-air presence for at least some exposure to the general public.”

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He said the station did reach parts of Colorado Springs and Black Forest, in addition to most of the Academy grounds.

“We were the only military broadcast station in the lower 48 United States, and maybe even Alaska, that broadcast over the open airways — and stereo FM was a big deal back then,” he explained.

On Jan. 10, 1969, Lt. Col. Howard Hitchens, Jr., the director of Instructional Technology (DFIT, which ran the television studio and other Fairchild Hall facilities), sent a letter to Academy agencies addressing the possibility of the Academy having its own radio station. He asked about their interest in providing educational programming to the station. Coincidentally, responses were due Jan. 17, 1969, two years to the day before that initial broadcast.

The responses Col. Hitchens received were decidedly mixed, with several respondents expressing concerns about the proposal and arguing against the endeavor.

Undaunted, Cadet Severski and his team continued to pursue their goal of a station. Severski says Master Sgt. Bob Woodruff from DFIT was especially supportive. Jim Means, also from DFIT, signed on as the required Federal Communications Commission (FCC) 1st Class engineer.

As momentum grew, a location for the studio became the next battle. As is typical, Academy agencies were fiercely protective of their office space and did not want to relinquish any of their precious territory for the fledgling station.

Eventually, the station was assigned three small adjoining rooms in Vandenberg Hall, near other cadet activity clubs.

(Interestingly, while there have been some short moves in the past 46 years, the current iteration of KAFA is in virtually the same location.)

The next need was broadcasting equipment. “The station cost a bit over $10,000 in equipment with a great deal of the studio construction from raw lumber,” Severski reported. Mayberry noted that some of that equipment came from radio stations that were being closed in Vietnam.

tudio

dcast S a o r B l igina e r O A F KA ed Consol Lower

Foerster was an electrical engineering major with some experience working on sound for the Bluebards, the Cadet theatrical troupe. His talents were very much needed. He related recently that, of all the cadet volunteers for KAFA, “I was the only ‘techie’ and thus became the station engineer.”

“The procured equipment package included a transmitter, antenna, two turntables, a reel-to-reel tape recorder, two tape cartridge machines, and a nice, modern sound board,” Foerster said. “Although the purchase included all the hardware necessary to build a radio station, it became immediately obvious that a great deal of scrounging was going to be necessary to make it all operational.”

Foerster turned out to be an accomplished scrounger and, with the help of a standing purchase order and items from the Electrical Engineering Department and DFIT, he was able to procure all of the necessary materials.

Leitch says, “I designed the original studio and the civil engineers came in during the Christmas break and erected the walls around the equipment that the guys had managed to scrounge up.”

With those modifications to the office space, a few pieces of government furniture, and some do-it-yourself work, the space began to look like a studio.

Of course, office space, equipment, disk jockeys and all the other accoutrements of a radio station are nothing without approval to broadcast. That was addressed in an

Tom Mayb er Ogilvie ‘7 ry ‘73 (left) and Eu 3I ge Mast Prior nstall A New Anten ne na To Going On Air. Oct. 16, 1970, message from the Academy to Washington requesting that a “license and call sign be authorized to initiate activity for the educational FM-MPX radio facility at the Academy ... Request call letters KAFA or alternate KDET be assigned.”

While KDET (“cadet” – get it?) was cute and catchy, the call letters KAFA already had a history at the Academy. As reported in the February 1964 issue of the cadet magazine The Talon, “Conceived and organized in the fall of 1963, KAFA-TV now operates on a monthly basis and broadcasts on the closed-circuit educational channel to which nearly all of the sets on the base are connected.”

Sure enough, on Oct. 30, 1970, the Academy received a message from the Office of the Chief of Staff of the Air Force stating, “Call sign KAFA has been assigned by the FCC for use at USAFA FM broadcast facility.” The message also relayed the approval of 89.7 megahertz as the station’s frequency.

Johnny Whitaker ’73 served as the fledgling station’s record librarian. “Once we got our FCC license, we started receiving free demo record albums [vinyl 33 rpm ‘platters’] from music companies around the country,” he recalled. “A lot was garbage, but a lot was great stuff by current and future big-name musicians and bands.

Somehow, we also got onto the AFRTS [Armed Forces Radio and Television Service] distribution lists for music and special programs.”

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 77

ski r e v e S John of 1971 n Class Radio Statio t e d a C FA

KA

“By the way,” Whitaker goes on to say, “it was my KAFA association with USAFA/OI [Office of Information, later renamed Public Affairs] that led me into a 30-plus-year career [active duty and civil service] in Air Force Public Affairs and Communications. Who-da-thunk-it?!”

Severski and his staff had polled cadets and determined that rock was the most popular music option, so that became the station’s format. Mayberry used his previously noted experience with AFRTS to bring some of that format to KAFA, to include public service announcements and Air Force news, aiding in KAFA’s professional sound.

By Jan. 17, 1971, everything was ready for the 10-watt station to go on the air. The broadcast began with a clever 10-minute preview show hosted by Mayberry. If the broadcast is to be believed (which it shouldn’t be), thousands of cadets, some having traveled all the way from the new dorm, crowded around the studio.

Al Leitch reported from high overhead in the KAFA copter, and Whitaker interviewed cadets. The preprogram also featured tongue-in-cheek interviews with other cadets who had helped get the station on the air.

Finally, it was air time. Severski smashed a Tiny Tim record to christen the station.

KAFA’s official inaugural broadcast began, appropriately, with the National Anthem. The first rock song 78 · usafa.org

“KAFA has undergone a few changes over the decades, but it is still largely as the original staffers dreamed and designed it. It remains true to its original mission of informing and entertaining listeners while providing cadets with communication experience.” to be played on KAFA was “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes,” by Crosby, Stills & Nash. Severski said he didn’t give the opening song a lot of thought, but played that one first because “it was a really big hit and a favorite of mine and my wife-to-be ... and it had a good intro for voice over.”

Severski then introduced Lt. Gen. A.P. Clark, the thensuperintendent, who welcomed KAFA and commended the staff for their work getting the station on the air. He then introduced a song, “Molina,” by Credence Clearwater Revival. The broadcast also included several “thank yous” to individuals at the Academy and Washington, D.C., who were instrumental in KAFA’s founding, including Master Sgt. Woodruff, who by that time was stationed in Saigon.

After Severski’s shift, he was followed in order by cadet DJs Leitch, Mayberry and Whitaker on the initial broadcast.

Because the station could only operate when someone was present in the studio, and cadets had many higher priority activities, the hours of KAFA were limited. Typically, it would be on the air briefly on weekday evenings, for longer periods on Friday evenings, and all day on the weekends.

The KAFA staff also worked diligently to become part of the Academy community. They held charity marathons to raise money for local families. In those days, before broadcast rights were sold to local radio stations, KAFA was

able to broadcast Academy sports, including football from Falcon Stadium. Steve Dalrymple and Gary Dutelle, both from the Class of 1973, were the first announcers.

KAFA has undergone a few changes over the decades, but it is still largely as the original staffers dreamed and designed it. It remains true to its original mission of informing and entertaining listeners while providing cadets with communication experience.

Due to problems with its signal bleeding into commercial stations’ coverage, KAFA has had to move its frequency from 89.7 to 104.3, then 104.5, and now to 97.7. The station went off the air for a time in the 1980s, but has broadcast continuously since restarting on Feb. 13, 1989.

Today, KAFA’s signal is 125 watts, more than 10 times the original strength. That, and a better antenna location, allow the station to reach far more listeners in the local community. The format is stable, with a mix of current alternative rock and a healthy dose of older rock music.

A full-time civilian station manager supervises the operation of the station and works with cadet and permanent party DJs. Since May 1, 2008, the Association of Graduates has funded live streaming of KAFA, making it available to graduates, parents and other interested parties anywhere in the world. The feed can be accessed at the AOG website, www.usafa.org. Listeners also can find KAFA on their mobile devices, and the station is active on various social media platforms.

Another service provided by KAFA is live broadcasts of important Academy events. Every year since 2006, KAFA has broadcast live from Falcon Stadium for graduation.

Beginning in 2008, KAFA also has provided live coverage of in-processing activities at Doolittle Hall. These broadcasts are especially well-received by cadet parents who are unable to attend the events.

From humble beginnings, and that first official broadcast on Jan. 17, 1971, KAFA has grown to be a major part of the Air Force Academy’s outreach operation, providing listeners around the world with the best the Air Force Academy has to offer. With any luck at all, “The Day the Music Died” at KAFA will never come.

(Col. Simon ’77 was a KAFA DJ during his cadet tenure and has had a show on KAFA since June 2007. It currently airs Saturdays from 3 to 6 p.m. Mountain Time.)

“I want to see what @%# sounds like in echo” While the first broadcast was still weeks away, an accidental and very inappropriate transmission was made during a practice session.

“One day I set [the equipment] up to echo and the DJs there were trying every combination they could to make weird and hopefully useful effects,” Foerster recounts. “I left to continue transmitter checks as they were doing their DJ thing and playing with the new toy. When I came back, a new game had begun and the goal was to see what crude, vulgar obscenities sounded like with deep, repeating echo (a reasonable question). … Part of the game seemed to be how many times you could get the obscenity to echo before it faded out. … As I watched the cursing game progress, I looked at the patch board and noticed that my unconnected patch cable was gone. I asked what happened and was told that they needed another patch cable to bring something else into the mix, so they took the one that wasn’t connected at the other end. This of course put the soundboard live on the air. … This was shortly before the station officially began operations in January of 1971, so we had no audience yet. One of the calmer DJs went to the board, opened the microphone, gave some sort of explanation (or apology) and asked anyone listening to call in. One cadet from the new dorm, now Sijan Hall, called in and said he loved the show and looked forward to our January premiere.” *** “Sir, Have The Security Police Called You Yet?” Foerster was again instrumental in the effort to allow KAFA to broadcast from Falcon Stadium. KAFA could not afford phone lines, but he was able to talk the supply folks into giving him several spools of field phone wire.

Late one night, he and some accomplices strung the wire through tunnels and overland from Vandenberg Hall to the stadium. As it would happen, security was especially tight that week because the crew of Apollo 15 was going to attend the game.

“I trailed slightly behind [in a tunnel], probably splicing wire, as the others moved ahead playing out wire from the spools when I heard, ‘YOU MAN – HALT!’ As I moved forward, I found my comrades apprehended by the security police,” Foerster recalled. “To this day, some claim guns were drawn, but I can’t verify that part. … The security police chatted with me and I verified that we were all cadets and not stringing detonator wire but simply stringing almost three miles of wire for the radio station. I gave them the name of KAFA’s officer advisor and they went to the surface to call it in. … I immediately back-tracked to the nearest phone and called Capt.

Diamond and asked, ‘Sir, have the Security Police called you yet?’ My call beat theirs and Capt. Diamond … explained to the Security Police that we were not a threat. We got two football seasons of use out of that wire until we finally got regular broadcast lines from the phone company. However, we never had a clearer, cleaner connection than we got from those three strands of steel, four strands of copper strung in the dead of night.”

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 79

Academy grads, coaches receive Hall call Ceremony slated for April 15 at Marriott

I

t’s been a decade since the United States Air Force Academy launched its Athletics Hall of Fame.

According to Troy Garnhart, associate athletic director of communications, the Hall inducted its first class in 2007, and a new class of inductees has been honored every two years since.

When the Hall was established, Academy officials felt it was about time the institution started honoring its all-time best athletes, coaches and support staff, Garnhart recalls.

“We were at that point in our history where we needed to start recognizing our past and recognizing our standout athletes,” he says.

For its first four induction classes, Air Force Athletics personnel assembled a list of eligible former athletes and coaches who would be considered for the Athletics Hall of Fame. The last two induction classes — 2015 and 2017 — have come from athletes, coaches and teams that were nominated for the honor by USAFA graduates and Air Force Athletics officials.

“Now people can write letters of support, or they can nominate teams,” Garnhart says. “The Hall of Fame has just kind of continued to evolve.”

A committee of 10 Hall of Fame voters then determines the make-up of each induction class, Garnhart reports. The voting members represent a cross section of the graduate community and athletic interests to help insure that the Hall includes athletes from a variety of Academy sports.

“We wanted to have diverse backgrounds among the voters, so that it’s not a bunch of football people, or basketball and hockey players, being elected to the Hall,” Garnhart explains.

This year’s induction class — the sixth since the Hall was established — includes five athletes, two coaches and one team from a wide range of sports.

Former USAFA athletes Jim Murphy ’65 (track and field), Don Henderson ’68 (wrestling), Rick McAlister ’75 (diving), Mike Thiessen ’01 (baseball and football), Seth Kelsey ’03 (fencing); coaches Rich Gugat (men’s tennis) and Paul Arata (men’s and women’s swimming); and the 1995-96 back-toback NCAA champion women’s swimming and diving teams will be inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame at 6 p.m. Saturday, April 15, at the Colorado Springs Marriott.

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The 2015 Athletics Hall of Fame class was the fifth group to be inducted. This year’s inductees will bring the total number of Hall members to 27.

Garnhart notes that the recognition of the 1995-96 swimming teams this year is particularly special because long-time coach, Casey Converse, has announced his retirement after 29 years in the job.

Including this year’s induction class, the Hall has honored a total of 27 athletes, seven coaches, two teams and two athletics administrators over the past 10 years. Through the years, Athletics Hall of Fame classes have ranged in size from five to seven inductees.

As the induction ceremony approaches, Garnhart says classmates, teammates and family members of the inductees, as well as members of the general public, are encouraged to attend the ceremony in Colorado Springs.

“We hope that it’s a very special occasion for our inductees,” he says. “These folks have separated themselves as the best of the best.”

For information or to reserve tickets, visit goairforcefalcons.com. The banquet is limited to the first 600 attendees who register.

To nominate individuals and teams for future Hall recognition, email Garnhart at troy.garnhart@usafa.edu.

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Jeff Holmquist 82 · usafa.org

Sympathies Our deepest

Volunteer organization offers condolences, encouragement to families in mourning

By Jeff Holmquist

A

volunteer organization at the United States Air Force Academy is a huge comfort to grieving families.

Two or more members associated with the Academy Ladies & Gentlemen organization make it a point to attend every Cadet Chapel or Memorial Pavilion funeral and each burial service at the Air Force Academy Cemetery.

The group’s goal is simple — to make sure no one is ever buried without mourners present and to offer words of gratitude and support on behalf of all Air Force families for the loved one’s service and sacrifice. If it’s a graduate’s spouse or family member who is being remembered, the volunteers acknowledge the past support and sacrifices of that service member’s loved one.

Over the group’s five-year history, Academy Mortuary Officer Janet Edwards reports that the organization’s members have attended more than 325 funerals and burials. Only a couple of burial services during that five-year stint went unattended due to the Waldo Canyon fire in 2012.

“That’s a lot of funerals,” Edwards notes. “When we introduce the Academy Ladies and Gentlemen to the family members and friends, they’re all so surprised that someone would take time out of their life to attend someone else’s funeral. It’s a wonderful group.”

The Ladies and Gentlemen organization is patterned after a similar program — called the Arlington Ladies — at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. The Arlington Ladies group was founded in 1948.

In November 2011, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Michael Gould ’76 — then superintendent of the Academy — and his wife, Paula Gould, helped the local group get started.

While he was commander of the 2nd Air Force at Keesler Air Force Base from 2005-08, Gould became aware of a volunteer group of airmen who attended every funeral at that cemetery.

A few years later, during an Air Force inspection of the Academy Cemetery, Gould learned about the Arlington Ladies organization and thought USAFA should launch something similar.

Previous page: Pallbearers prepare to fold the American flag during a Dec. 29, 2016, graveside service at the United States Air Force Academy Cemetery for Maj. David Goodale ’04.

Bill Riley ’66 (kneeling) and Walt Washburn ’76 offer words of encouragement to the family of Maj. David Goodale ’04, who passed away Dec. 12, 2016, and was buried Dec. 29.

Gould talked the idea over with Paula and she took it from there.

“Paula and Janet [Edwards] discussed it and before you knew it they had eight or nine women who were interested in standing something like that up,” Gould recalls.

Initially known as the Academy Ladies, the group changed its name when a few men decided they wanted to help out. The organization has 15 current members. Some are USAFA graduates, while others are spouses of graduates, civilian employees at USAFA or Air Force retirees.

At least two Ladies and Gentlemen members, but oftentimes several more, attend each funeral and burial at the Academy. Whether there are a handful of mourners attending a service or hundreds, the group’s representatives are there.

At the graveside, the volunteers present family members and friends of the deceased with a condolence card filled Checkpoints · March 2017 · 83

Ryan Hall

with personal messages. The Ladies and Gents in attendance also say a few words of thanks to the family as the service wraps up.

“They are there to show the respect for anybody who is going to be buried here,” Gould explains. “They’re there to give a hug and a card with some heart-felt words to the next of kin. I’ve seen it have an impact on the family that’s mourning.”

Edwards adds that “all you have to do is look in the family members’ eyes” to see the impact that the Academy Ladies and Gentlemen have at the services.

“The Ladies and Gents want to be there, not because they have to,” she says. “To me, that shows the level of commitment and compassion that this group has.”

Cheryl Beineke ’90 joined the Academy Ladies and Gentlemen two years ago after retiring from active duty.

Since then, Beineke attends funerals and burial services when she’s available.

“I just think it’s an amazing service that we provide, as far as supporting families,” she says. “I think it’s a beautiful way to recognize that we are a family as a service, as graduates, and as military members. And we support each other through all phases of life. I just think it’s a poignant way to say to someone that we still care about you.”

Beineke says the Ladies and Gentlemen members take great care in writing out the personalized cards that are eventually presented to family members.

“There’s no standard thing to say,” she explains. “We tell them that we hope they find comfort, we hope they find peace and we’re grateful for the life of their loved one.”

The families always appreciate that the group’s representatives take the time to show they care, she notes.

“I’ve been to one service where we’ve outnumbered the family,” she says. “The goal is to be there for the family no matter what. It’s really a privilege to be there to help honor their loved one.”

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The Academy Ladies & Gentlemen organization has been offering sympathy cards and words of encouragement to family and friends for five years. The group gathered in December for its annual photograph. Pictured (front, left to right) are Cheryl Beineke, Martha Beatty, Nicole Inabinet, Paula Gould, Donna Marie Edwards-Armstrong and Barbara Green. (Back) Stephanie Price, Tom Hayden, Bill Riley, Dan Beatty, Randy Helms, Janet Edwards, John Hargreaves and Becky Gaughan

Randy Helms ’79 joined the volunteer group in 2015 when he moved back to Colorado Springs and began working for the USAFA Endowment.

He learned about the Academy Ladies and Gentlemen volunteer opportunity at a meeting of the Rampart Range Chapter of the Association of Graduates. A soaring instructor and Air Officer Commanding (AOC) at the Academy from 1986-89, Helms says he was looking for ways to give back to his alma mater and serve his fellow graduates.

“That’s when I trained and became a member of the Ladies and Gentlemen,” he notes. “The reality is, being in the Air Force, you know people who have sacrificed it all. Being a part of that final moment is important.”

Helms reports that he’s attended six or seven services over his first year with the group.

“It has met and gone beyond my expectations,” he says. “It’s overwhelming. It’s something that I continue to want to do, because I think it’s important to be part of that final recognition.”

The toughest part of being part of the Academy Ladies and Gentlemen is when a friend or classmate dies. Helms was on hand when classmate Rich Hall ’79 passed away and was buried last spring.

Apart from Beineke and Helms, other USAFA graduates who are part of the Academy Ladies and Gentlemen are Walt Washburn ’76, Tom Hayden ’74, Rob Rysavy ’90, Bill Riley ’66, Dan Beatty ’76, Doug Brower ’72, and Stephanie Price ’94.

The volunteer group falls under the auspices of the 10th Air Base Wing’s Chaplain Corps. USAFA’s Mortuary Affairs Officer, Janet Edwards, coordinates the volunteer schedules and ensures that enough Ladies and Gentlemen attend upcoming services and burials.

To become involved with the Academy Ladies and Gentlemen or for more information, contact Nicole Inabinet, the group’s chairwoman, at nsharri@gmail.com or call Edwards at 719-333-3323 or email janet.edwards.1@us.af.mil.

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Chapel Champions

By Jeff Holmquist

Volunteer docents step up to enhance the Academy visitor experience

Tourists who stop by the Cadet Chapel are greeted more and more by USAFA graduates and their spouses.

In October 2016, two of the Chapel’s four civilian guide positions were eliminated due to realignment. That left just two employees to provide tours for the more than 700,000 tourists who visit the chapel in an average year.

“To put that into perspective, the Cadet Chapel is only closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's day,” reports Lt. Col. Michael Newton, wing chaplain. “That left two chapel guides to cover the Chapel seven days a week … for 362 days out of 365.”

According to Newton, the Chapel staff discussed various options for providing help to the remaining full-time civilian Chapel guides. A volunteer program was launched as a result.

“It occurred to me that most any USAFA grad, or family member connected to a USAFA grad, would be ideal for what we needed,” Newton explains. “Think about it … they know USAFA inside and out for the most part, they have been in the Cadet Chapel numerous times while they were a cadet, and they still love the Long Blue Line.”

The Chapel staff and chaplains contacted the Association of Graduates and the USAFA Public Affairs office to help recruit volunteers for the new opportunity. Over a two-month period, 24 individuals — graduates, their spouses, Academy staff and friends of the Academy — agreed to attend one of several information and training sessions.

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(Clockwise from front left) Becky Gaughan, Rich Fazio ‘73, Dick Mosbach ‘68 and Mark Pimental ‘79 pose for a picture outside the entrance to the Protestant Chapel.

By the fall of 2016, 19 volunteer docents were fully trained and each had agreed to join the program. The current volunteer troupe includes more than a dozen USAFA grads and/or their spouses.

“A Chapel docent is a knowledgeable guide who leads visitors through the rich experience of the Cadet Chapel,” Newton explains. “We try to hold the docent role in high esteem.”

Once trained, the volunteers were tasked with memorizing details about the Chapel’s history, its architectural features and the lore associated with the building.

The new docents also were briefed on how to handle various situations that may occur while they are on duty. Whether

The Chapel was a place of solace for me. ... No matter how bad things got in my life — be it academically, militarily or even with my family back in Tampa — I could always come in here and the problems seemed to melt away.” — Rich Fazio ’ 73

someone falls and gets injured, or gets worn out climbing the stairs and can’t get back to their car, the docents are given the necessary tools to address a variety of issues.

“I wanted those who signed up for the program to know that it would not be easy becoming a docent, but it could turn out to be one of the most rewarding volunteer efforts they had ever been a part of,” Newton says.

Volunteer docents are expected to cover at least one fourhour shift each week. While on site, the docents conduct tours, answer questions and tackle “other duties as assigned.”

In addition, the docents provide assistance during funeral and memorial services scheduled at the Cadet Chapel.

Jason Breeden ’93 has stepped up to coordinate the docent schedule for the Chapel. He also sends out regular emails to keep the volunteers informed, while providing interesting facts about the Chapel and the Academy for the docents to use while on duty.

Breeden, along with his wife Col. Jacqueline Breeden ’94 (the USAFA Prep School commander), returned to the Colorado Springs area in June. Breeden was looking for a way to give back to the institution that has meant so much to his family.

“This just sounded like a great opportunity,” he says. “I actually get a lot more out of this than I thought.”

Breeden says each volunteer shift is unique, with both the highs and the lows catching docents by surprise. On one of his first shifts, Breeden was asked to take a photo of a couple near the front of the sanctuary. As he lined up the shot, the former Falcon football player dropped to a knee and asked his girlfriend to marry him.

A couple hours later, Breeden talked with the widow of a graduate who was burying her husband that day.

“A shift like that puts it all in perspective — those are the highs and the lows of what this place means to so many people,” he comments.

Tours of the upstairs Protestant Chapel, along with the lower level Catholic Chapel, Jewish Synagogue and Buddist meditation room, can last anywhere from a few minutes to more than an hour, reports Rich Fazio ’73, who volunteers as a docent along with his wife Teresa. Fazio says he makes sure to linger at the lower-level memorial wall, which lists graduates and cadets who have died while serving their country, during his tours.

Among the other highlights of the tour are the Heaven-toHell glass in the Catholic Chapel; the ornate pipe organ (featuring more than 4,300 pipes) that towers above the Protestant Chapel; the 24,000 pieces of stained glass that are installed

within the Chapel structure; the Holocaust Torah from Poland on display in the Jewish Synagogue; and the Shroud of Turin exhibit in the lower level.

The Chapel was an important part of his cadet experience, Fazio recalls, so he is excited to be able to share his passion for the place with tourists and returning grads.

“The Chapel was a place of solace for me,” he explains. “No matter how bad things got in my life — be it academically, militarily or even with my family back in Tampa — I could always come in here and the problems seemed to melt away.”

Volunteer docent Rich Fazio ’73 (left) leads a tour group imparting interesting facts about the Cadet Chapel.

Fazio says he doesn’t recall ever learning about the history and the architectural facts associated with the iconic building while he was a cadet, but he has enjoyed absorbing all that information now.

“It’s just such a cool place once you find out about everything,” he adds. “People are going to walk in here and they’re going to see a building. But we can enhance that experience.”

Dick Mosbach ’68 says he owes a debt of gratitude to the Cadet Chapel for helping him get through his time as a cadet. That’s why he was thrilled to become a volunteer docent.

“I spent a lot of time down in the Catholic Chapel,” he recalls. “I’d like to think it was for my spiritual wellbeing, but in reality it was because I needed all the help I could get to Checkpoints · March 2017 · 87

make it through this place. A lot of it was, ‘Lord, if you could get me through this place, I’d sure appreciate it.’”

For many tourists at the Chapel, the docents are the only personal contact they have during their visit to the USAFA campus. Mosbach says when he conducts each tour, he focuses on the Chapel, but he also tries to talk about cadet life and the Air Force in general.

“I have never left a shift without saying I had a great afternoon,” he admits. “It seems like every time I come in here, something really happy, enlightening or satisfying occurs.”

He also has had the opportunity to talk with prospective cadet candidates, who often pepper him with questions about what it’s like to attend the Academy.

“I have a chance to tell them what a great opportunity this is,” he says. “I’d be selling shoes in Des Moines, Iowa, had it not been for the Academy. So I try to put in a little plug for the Academy.”

After finding out about the docent program through the AOG’s e-newsletter, Mark Pimentel ’79 says he jumped at the chance to help out. His work schedule is fairly flexible, so he is able to fit in a shift at the Chapel at least once a week.

He and his wife, a 1980 grad, were married in the Chapel in 1980 and have always had a special place in their hearts for the building. So being able to meet visitors and impart a few facts about the Chapel and the Academy has been a truly rewarding experience, he notes.

“I’m surprised at how many people who have been here multiple times don’t realize that this is actually several churches within one building,” he says. “They’ve been in the Protestant Chapel, which is obviously the most impressive of them. But then you tell them there’s a Catholic chapel right below this. And it’s right next to the Jewish Synagogue, which is much larger than the Buddist meditation room. Part of the plan of the building back in the 1950s was to have a center for all the cadets …”

Joan Cunningham ’81 calls her work as a docent “an amazing experience.”

“Not only have I learned so much about the chapel, but I have the opportunity to meet many fellow Americans and visitors from around the world as I perform my duties,” she notes.

“It's a treat to be part of a team made up of the chapel staff and fellow docents.”

Lee Heitman ’76 agrees.

“The people I get to meet each time are amazing, and they often share their thoroughly interesting life stories,” he says. “In the short time I've volunteered, I've had the privilege of meeting the wife of an Israeli ambassador, an MMA [mixed martial arts] heavyweight fighter, a Super Bowl winner, World War II and Korean War veterans, and tourists from around the globe.”

Stephanie Price ’94, who met her husband (a Class of 1993 graduate) while both sang in the Chapel’s Protestant Choir, says being a docent gives her a chance to support the institution and the Chapel that means so much to her.

“There is such amazing history and symbolism in the Chapel and its structure,” she notes. “Everything has a story.”

Becky Gaughan, whose husband John is a 1975 grad, 88 · usafa.org

says she continues to be in awe of the volunteer opportunity she enjoys. Even though she has many great facts to share, Gaughan says she tries to gauge whether a visitor is interested in the full tour or if they want to be left alone.

“I think it’s important to be a good listener,” she notes. “You have to be sensitive to where they are at. Maybe they want to pray, or maybe they have five minutes and they’re in and out.

There are different dimensions of what people want to experience. You realize it’s a place of great sadness, but also a place of great joy. This place moves people.”

All of the docents encourage fellow graduates and Academy friends to join the volunteer program in the coming months.

As the summer season approaches, additional docents will be needed to greet the flood of visitors that are expected during the busy season.

“If you’re in the area, and it’s convenient for you, it’s a great way to give back to the school,” Pimentel says. “And you’ll probably get more out of it than you give.”

For more information or to RSVP for a training session, contact Jason Breeden at usafa.chapel.docent@gmail.com or Chaplain Newton Michael.Newton@usafa.edu or 719-333-2636.

REPAIR PLAN In the spring of 2018, the Cadet Chapel is scheduled for closure for extensive repair work. The project could last more than two years.

“It will change life as we’ve known it since 1963,” says Jason Breeden, a volunteer docent at the Chapel. “The emphasis is on the repair to preserve it. Its biggest enemy has been water over the years.

Everybody will agree on that.”

During the Chapel’s closure, cadets will be able to attend worship services in various alternative locations throughout campus.

Wedding and funerals also will have to be conducted in other spaces.

The Chapel staff and docents will be working on a temporary Chapel display at the Barry Goldwater Visitors Center to help tell the story of the Chapel while it’s under construction. Other informational displays may be installed near the Chapel grounds as well.

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FALCON FITNESS DEFCON 3

Dan Felix ’74

T

he term DEFCON will elicit an immediate response to any current or past member of the U.S. military. The readiness condition DEFCON 3, also called Round House, requires the Air Force to be ready to mobilize in 15 minutes.

The term can change a person’s heart rate.

That change in heart rate is evidence of stress. Every human body is hard-wired to identify, assess and respond to a threatening situation. The reasons we feel stress are numerous and varied. While the reasons for stress can vary among people, the body’s biological responses are quite similar and severe.

The body creates and releases chemicals as a response to stress. We are familiar with the chemical adrenaline. It will increase our heart rate, breathing rate and muscle metabolism.

It prepares our body for a fight-or-flight response.

The body also produces cortisol. During a stress response, this chemical will alter the metabolism of blood sugar, fat, protein and carbohydrates. It can cause weight gain. It also can modify our immune system’s behavior and blood pressure. There are other chemicals released into our system as well, all as a response to a threat or challenging situation.

None of this is new and very familiar to anyone surviving a Fourth Class year. What may be less understood is the duration and severity of constant stress. These chemicals are designed to be used and dissipated rather quickly. You either survived the threat or you did not.

The body can readily handle the chemicals on a temporary basis but not if they are continuously trickled into the system over long periods of time. These chemicals then become a major problem and, in some studies, the major source of disease and illness.

So, how do we handle stress? What can we do to use stress responses when we need them and still prevent their long-term health risks? We have some tools to help.

We can avoid stress. To Academy grads, this can sound like retreat, but it is not. We have to pick the situations where we are willing to expose ourselves to the chemicals of stress and avoid those that are, simply put, not that important. We don’t need to win in every situation and trying to do so will waste resources for truly important threats.

“Every stress leaves an indelible scar, and the organism pays for its survival after a stressful situation by becoming a little older” — Dr. Hans Selye, 1907-1982.

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We can convert the stress. Sometimes we cannot avoid the situation, so we need to change how we perceive it. We can see it as less threatening and, in so doing, our body will most likely refrain from dumping the stress chemicals into our blood.

Public speaking is a good example. It is one of the top sources of stress. If we see it as a talk with friends and not a test of our skills, the body will be more relaxed and even result in an improved speech.

We can prepare for it. Some situations are simply threatening and unavoidable. Changes in long-term relationships, unexpected or unwanted changes in careers, and treatments for severe illnesses are just some of the situations that we can neither avoid nor re-characterize.

We can still diminish the negative effects of the situation.

Control your breathing for the moments that are most stressful with slower, deeper breathing. Don’t let yourself get cold as that can trigger what feels like anxiety. Drink water to stay hydrated.

Eat normally. Take control of your thoughts by talking yourself through the tougher situations. Remind yourself of what you can control and don’t let your thoughts convince you that you are powerless. You are not.

The chemistry and psychology of stress is more complicated than this short article can address, but we can address our responses. Even when we think we are at the mercy of a chaotic situation, we are not. We are hard-wired to survive.

Dan Felix ’74 has been fitness training for more than 25 years and has multiple certifications, including International Sports Sciences Association and American Red Cross Advanced First Aid.

CHOICES, CHOICES The richer environment of today’s Academy provides its students more options

By Paul Henry, ’67

I

t doesn’t take much contact time with current cadets to reach the inevitable conclusion that, in many ways, cadets are still cadets — whatever Academy generation they may come from. At bottom, they are college kids matriculating – not toward a job but more so a calling — and surviving what everyone acknowledges is a program that demands more than other institutions of higher learning require of their students.

“There is a significant delta between Academy students and university students,” asserts Brig. Gen. Stephen Williams ’89, Commandant of Cadets, “and that delta, what cadets give up, and what they sacrifice, is the same today as it has always been.”

Indeed, today’s cadets, as cadets throughout Academy history, are successful in school. They are well-rounded in terms of sports, hobbies and community activities. They look at the Academy as an opportunity to obtain an excellent education in exchange for some period of military service: a proverbial “good deal” that brings them in the door and — if they make it through — sustains them for Air Force service, whether long or short.

But throughout the 63 years of Academy history, each student generation has come from often startlingly different versions of American cultural settings spanning the 1950s to the present day.

The Academy, not surprisingly, has accommodated the varying experiences and expectations of generations of cadets in refining and managing its training, academic demands and athletic environments to better meet the needs of an evolving student population. It would have been irresponsible to do less. As the saying goes, having one option is no longer an option.

One of the more striking facts of modern cadet life is the wider range of choices available to them within the still overcrammed daily schedule that has always been (and remains) a feature of student life at USAFA. “Time management is a skill that you must learn to succeed as a cadet, period” Brig. Gen. Williams says. “The Academy is a training environment … the longest training program in the

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Air Force. It is structured and rigorous, but within that structure we give cadets a degree of flexibility as a way of developing their leadership and decision-making abilities. ‘Wiggle room’ is a development opportunity.”

Dedicated time in the daily schedule is provided to work on assigned squadron duties. Cadets may apply their discretion during evening study time in using the gymnasiums. Differentiated among the upper three classes, cadets in good standing have some opportunities to leave campus after their last class and return by academic call to quarters, and in specified cases by taps, or even the following morning.

They quickly learn, according to Brig. Gen. Williams, that “leadership takes presence. They need to be in front of their people. They learn that putting service before self is about subordinating your personal desires to the mission and your duty.”

He makes the point that deciding individually when and under what circumstances they can be away develops a cadet’s sense of maturity more effectively within a flexible system of time off than simply being told what to do.

“We have gotten away from ‘the animals have left The Zoo’ and people trying to live fours years of college in their first year out of the Academy,” he explains.

Wide-ranging options also empower cadet choice in other training regimes. Current cadet summer programs are im-

The “Falcon Fuel” program gives cadets the nutrition they require throughout the day. It is one of many additional choices that cadets now enjoy at the Academy on a daily basis.

pressively broad. They include conducting summer seminars with prospective cadets, coaching at summer sports camps, serving as counselors at Philmont Scout Ranch, completing or instructing survival and evasion training, serving with a field unit as part of Operation Air Force, or meeting an airmanship requirement in free-fall/jump, glider or powered flight programs. Cadets also can serve as Airman Basic Training instructors at Lackland Air Force Base in preparation for leading Basic Cadet Training for the incoming Academy class.

“Cadets really learn the purpose and intent of basic training,” says Brig. Gen. Williams, “and how our Air Force is analyzing its training methods and results. We are breaking the cycle of ‘this is the way it was for me, so this is what it’s going to be for everybody else.’”

Community service was rare in the Academy’s earlier days.

At one time it was pretty much confined to on-base “cadetfor-a-day” opportunities for kids with special needs, or the annual “Operation Easter,” which was hosted wholly within the confines of the cadet area.

Today, it is a key component of cadet life, and reaches far and wide into the local, state and even global communities.

Every squadron has a community service officer, and opportunities to support specific projects are extensive. Community service is literally available in sufficient quantities to monopolize all available cadet free time. But cadets do nonetheless

find and dedicate time to these efforts. Even some designated “Commandant training days” are given over completely to community service projects, in lieu of normal military training.

Here, according to Brig. Gen. Williams, “cadets get logistical experience, coordinating transportation and meals. These operations are not always perfect … but that’s how you get better.”

Cadets have engaged in “brute force” projects like cleaning trails or repairing flood damage, but they also have sourced and distributed recycled crutches to Africa, built modular housing for Native American reservations, and constructed a bridge in Colorado’s White River National Forest. These impressive achievements stand in relief against more humble but still impactful aid to schools, religious organizations, food banks and shelters within which cadets are routinely engaged.

Cadet life is supplemented by club membership, and most cadets take advantage of it. Here again is a cadet leadership opportunity, an instance when cadets can guide, support or at least join other cadets in pursuing some shared passion. Competitive clubs like rugby or triathlon, for example, count for intramural participation, unlike the binary options of the past in which all cadets were either intercollegiate or intramural participants.

There are also affinity and culture clubs in which cadets of similar ethnic, cultural or philosophical backgrounds can interact. Cadets outside these groups are often known to join in an effort to broaden their understanding of diverse Checkpoints · March 2017 · 93

Cadet have a variety of leadership opportunities to choose from during the summer months, including the annual sports camps at the Academy.

perspectives, which could well be encountered during their future Air Force careers.

“In my day as a cadet” Brig. Gen. Williams recalls, “there were eight cadet clubs.” Today, depending on how one counts them, there are between 80 and 90 cadet clubs.

These range in focus from music to sports, robotics to orienteering, and debate to falconry.

When asked whether today’s cadets have a wider choice of activities to pursue, one first classman said, “I think so. Everybody I know is into something different.”

With good reason, most cadets believe that “grades are job one.” The requisite effort and emphasis follow accordingly.

Cadets spend more time in the classroom (and in classroom preparation) than they do in any single activity while they are at the Academy.

It is indisputable that all 48,713 graduates from the Academy met at least the minimum academic requirements. But as in the Commandant’s arena, Brig. Gen. Andrew Armacost, the dean of faculty, is not interested in the minimum, and is leveraging program enrichment for the benefit of the student body and the institution as a whole.

While the past total number of available majors was recently reduced by Air Staff direction, the dean and faculty successfully argued for and implemented an additional major (within computer science) of Computer and Network Security that meets critical cyber needs for the Air Force. Some 27 majors are available for cadets to choose from — a far cry from the early days of no majors, to required declaration among a limited number of majors in the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s. Minors are also currently offered to students in any of eight foreign languages, in philosophy, nuclear studies and policy, or even religion studies.

Like the training side of the house, the dean and faculty have found ways to exploit summer academic opportunities for cadets. Choices include language immersion programs overseas, or completing required core courses in the summer term, which fulfill upcoming requirements. Such options allow cadets to 94 · usafa.org

make room in their schedules for additional course work, or facilitate downloading a semester in which the cadet may be undertaking a wing staff or other demanding leadership role.

“Cadets can also perform five- to seven-week internship programs,” Brig. Gen. Armacost adds. “These are often with Air Force or DoD organizations, but with increasing frequency, it has been industry partners as well. 220 cadets participated in these programs last year.” These internships provide useful, quantifiable outcomes to each internship participating organization.

Another major addition to the core academic program, and one that offers a wide range of practical choices for cadet participants, is the presence of 19 research centers and two research institutes at the Academy.

“Each is focused on a particular area of study” according to Brig. Gen. Armacost, “and each is closely aligned with an academic department. One of our most recent is the Warfighter Effectiveness Research Center, which is run out of the Department of Behavioral Sciences and looks at issues of human performance and human-systems interaction.”

In these programs, cadets work with faculty on funded research, adding to first-hand cadet experience of advanced scholarship. In a related area of focus across the past couple of years, the academic staff has been engaging in technology transfer efforts, in which cadet-supported and faculty-facilitated work is conducted through local non-profit organizations to transfer government technologies to companies which may subsequently commercialize them.

Some 60 to 65 percent of cadets undertake Capstone Courses, which tend to be group projects for designing technologies or examining policies, for example. Typically, the project outcome itself is the “final exam.”

“The amount and level of work on these Capstone Course projects is pretty amazing,” says Brig. Gen. Armacost, “and their complexity has grown by leaps and bounds.”

Among many impressive project outcomes, cadets have developed patented solutions to technical aerodynamic problems and applied “neuro groove” technology to eye manipulation of wheelchair controls and even driving a NASCAR racecar.

Cadets also are engaged in active space satellite programs, and development and employment of Remotely Piloted Vehicles.

Such work produces real-world products and capabilities, and establishes research bona fides for the approximately 85 cadets who will go on to graduate work after commissioning.

The commandant, dean, and athletic director all share a common mission of developing leaders of character for the Air Force and the nation. It stands to reason, then, that the athletic program also has witnessed its share of changes and enhancements that provide greater choice for today’s students.

All cadets participate in physical fitness and structured athletics programs. “The Academy has 4,000 elite athletes” says Athletic Director Jim Knowlton. “I can’t imagine that there is one cadet here who is not an athlete. They wouldn’t be here

“THE ACADEMY PROVIDES A RICHNESS OF EXPERIENCE. ...WHERE ALL THE CHOICES CADETS HAVE PREPARE THEM TO JOIN AN AIR FORCE WHERE SPECIALTIES ARE BROADER AND MORE TECHNICAL THAN EARLIER DAYS. WE HAVE TO OFFER MORE VARIETY TO MEET [THOSE] NEEDS.” — JIM KNOWLTON, DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

otherwise. Our kids are physically fit and in great shape. All scores [in long-standing Academy requirements] — the five event Physical Fitness Test and the 1.5 mile Aerobic Fitness Test — have continued to improve for both men and women over time.”

Many athletic programs have seen substantial changes over the years, beyond the addition of women’s sports in 1976-77, the rise of the women’s program to Division I status in 199596, and the steady addition of women’s intercollegiate sport offerings along the way.

“With the addition of women’s boxing this academic year,” Knowlton points out, “we now have a single physical education curriculum for all cadets. That’s monumental as the Air Force continues to open up more specialty codes to women, and more will be in combat roles. Our women deserve the same confidence-building opportunities our men have had for years.”

Cadets complete 10 PE courses, which include required core courses like boxing, combatives training, swimming/water survival, and a number of electives from which students can choose.

Club sports have expanded significantly in recent years.

Some 32 cadet clubs are directly related to sporting pursuits.

Selected competitive club team sports also count as meeting the intramural sports requirement that must be fulfilled by all cadets who are not intercollegiate athletes.

The intramural program, like other aspects of Academy athletics, has hardly been dormant. The range of available intramurals has been adapted to incorporate current and popular activities.

“Our offerings change to meet changing cadet needs,” according to Knowlton. “Intramurals is a cadet-run program, and it is a big part of their development. We are doing more to emphasize its importance by hosting wing intramural championships at venues like Falcon Stadium and Clune Arena, to get people there and to celebrate each team’s success. We are developing patches that intramural championship team members can wear as a badge of achievement.”

Selected teams (like basketball, flag football and soccer) also partake in “extramural” competitions outside the Academy, facing off with other schools or club organizations.

Across the athletic department, continued upgrades in service, support and facilities have characterized what is being done, not just for varsity athletes, but for the cadet wing as a whole. Certified strength and conditioning specialists,

physicians and nutritionists are available to help cadets develop specific physical skills, mitigate and recover from injuries, and sustain all-around fitness. Cadets can participate in a wide range of fitness activities, from spinning to CrossFit, all led by qualified instructors.

The Academy’s recently implemented “Falcon Fuel” program provides all cadets with self-serve foods in every weight or workout room for nutritional supplementation. Knowlton indicates that cadets find “Falcon Fuel” beneficial in athletics but also helps when studying while sleep deprived. What really enables all of these efforts, however, is the facilities.

“The facilities we have are phenomenal. We have world-class venues for all our major sports. We can put on unifying events that help bring the entire wing and the community together,” Knowlton says.

Some 1,000 cadets are engaged in intercollegiate athletics. They pursue their sports today at a level of exposure and expectation that was unheard of in past decades. They reside on what the athletic director calls “the front porch of the Academy.” He speaks to the entire community of athletes in a single gathering at the beginning of each year, celebrating their achievements and welcoming newcomers, but also ensuring that everyone hears and understands his expectations. He conducts a “vector check” of this message again at the beginning of spring semester.

A climate and culture specialist provides training on healthy relationships to every athlete. The department also provides a detailed set of media guidelines that helps cadet athletes prepare for dealing with interviews, social media and the high visibility associated with being a college athlete in what can at times be a poisonous “news” atmosphere.

“The Academy provides a richness of experience,” Knowlton concludes, “where all the choices cadets have prepare them to join an Air Force where specialties are broader and more technical than earlier days. We have to offer more variety to meet [those] needs.”

It seems abundantly clear that indeed the Academy does offer a wider variety of experience to the current generation of cadets than it did to earlier generations of the Long Blue Line.

While this effort may acknowledge the increased worldliness and life experience of modern young people, such variety seems to have the practical value of encouraging personal development and maturity, while better meeting the needs of a more complex future Air Force.

Checkpoints · March 2017 · 95

CADET QUESTION During your time as a cadet, what has been the funniest thing you have experienced or witnessed?

“Last year, hearing about the freshman ending up on the Superintendent’s balcony by mistake. I don’t know how you end up on the balcony by accident. He somehow wandered into her office. She gave us a bit of a talking to at lunch. It was pretty funny.”

C3C Samuel San Marco

C2C Byron Baker

“My freshman year, me and my buddies were really bored.

We went into the showers, clogged up all the drains, and bleached up all the floors to make sure it was clean. Then we turned all the showers on and literally made a hottub. It was so much fun for the time it lasted. Afterwards we kind of got railed for it.”

““During Basic, we had a bearing competition — who can keep their bearing while at attention. We had to put water in our mouth, and if you start laughing you spit water at your partner. It was nice to see people laughing and putting water all over their buddies. It was a fun time. You have to laugh during Basic; it’s the only way you get through. But you have to make sure it’s the right time to laugh, though.”

“Last year we had cadets read mean ‘Yik Yaks’ [the social media smartphone app]. That was pretty funny. People read stuff about themselves. Our Wing Commander last year, Mac Caldwell, he read one about himself. And the wing training read one about himself, too.”

C3C Marquis Cobb

96 · usafa.org

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GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN Richard L. “RL” Penn, ’59 Richard L. Penn, Decatur, Alabama, 219K, “slipped the surly bonds” one last time on Nov. 10, 2016, in Milford, Conn.

Whether you knew him as Richard, Dick or RL, you were privileged to know a true man of patriotism, courage, integrity and intellect; a man who loved his country, his profession, his family and his many friends.

He was a fighter pilot and a very modern supersonic warrior. He was also a man of wide-ranging intellectual interests and a deep, probing mind. No matter what subject you were interested in you found him eager to enter into a dialogue in which you quickly discovered he knew what he was talking about and he understood what you were talking about.

The term “Renaissance man” is probably overused, but in RL’s case it is accurate. He could discuss philosophy and theology, or the mathematics of F-4 coefficients of lift and drag, or the combat tactics for surviving ground-to-air guns and missiles, or the joy of sailing on Long Island Sound. His musical tastes ran from a Verdi opera to an Elvis Presley hymn.

He was a fun-loving friend, sometimes a joker and a prankster, and that is how some people knew him. For some it was the only way they knew him.

But he was basically very serious. He down-played his seriousness by showing the world his love of life, his fun-loving side, his fighter pilot side. He was not pretending. It was real, but that was not all he was.

It took us 50 years to appreciate his introspective write-up next to his graduation picture in the yearbook for 1959. He was as he described himself in the yearbook: “Serious, sometimes, maybe. Not serious, sometimes, maybe.

Sometimes both.”

RL was born in Decatur, Ala., on March 14, 1936. He was inspired at an early age by the death of his uncle Charlie, who died when his B-17 was shot down over Holland in World War II. RL was proud in the end to have earned a Purple Heart like his uncle Charlie.

RL was prepared for his Air Force career by the Academy and appreciated the education he received there. He lived out his life with a deep faith in, and total commitment to, the Honor Code: “We will not lie, steal or cheat, or tolerate among us anyone who does.”

RL was recognized as one of the best fighter pilots of his generation. All you had to do was ask him.

RL loved his family, especially his very amazing wife, Eugenia, and his son Robert and daughter Valeria. He is also survived by grandchildren Alexander, Elizabeth and Sofia.

RL was a blessing to all with whom he shared his intellect, compassion, joys and love. We are each of us a better person for having known a great man.

(Hansford T. Johnson, Aiken, South Carolina, 139K; and Ronald T. Lanman, Lexington, Kentucky, 156K.)

Philip R. Lane, ’61 The Honorable Philip Robert Lane of San Angelo, Texas, passed away peacefully Dec. 15, 2016 after a prolonged illness of six years.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Ruth Lane; their three children, Brian, David and Erin Lane; two grandchildren, Tristen and Devaney Lane; and his two sisters, Carol West and Nancy White.

His parents, Philip and Margaret Lane, welcomed their son and the youngest of their three children into this world on Feb. 12, 1939, at Shannon Hospital, San Angelo, Texas. Through discipline, intelligence and athleticism Phil graduated valedictorian and all-district quarterback of Central High School’s Class of 1957. He then entered the United States Air Force Academy’s Class of 1961, completing his B.S. degree in the required four years. Phil was also a talented offensive running back and 98 · usafa.org

defensive cornerback with USAFA’s only undefeated football team that played in the Cotton Bowl in 1958.

In 1961, Phil graduated from the Air Force Academy with top honors in chemistry and as the number one cadet in physical training and conditioning.

Phil, a second lieutenant bachelor, then went on to Williams AFB, Ariz., for Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT). After UPT, he was assigned the C-118 transport aircraft in the Military Airlift Command and was stationed at McGuire AFB, N.J. In 1965, he took an “early out” separation from the Air Force and decided to enter the University of Texas School of Law. After receiving his law degree in 1968, he then joined the law firm of Marshall, Hall, McLaughlin and Lane in San Angelo as a full partner. Due to his outstanding performance as a legal counsel, he was selected and sworn in as part-time U.S. Magistrate Judge for the northern district of Texas in 1971. He subsequently became a full-time Magistrate Judge in the Abilene and San Angelo divisions starting in 2003. Judge Phil Lane was the longest serving Magistrate Judge in the federal judiciary.

Phil and Nancy were married in Dec. 14, 1974, allowing them to celebrate their 42nd wedding anniversary together. It was their mutual love, appreciation and respect for each other that allowed a relationship of support and care to exist throughout their marriage. This was especially true of his devoted wife, Nancy, who was the primary caregiver during the last six years of Phil’s illness.

During his cadet days and professional tenure in San Angelo, Phil gained many strong friendships that were maintained and continued throughout his life.

He always had a warm smile on his face and found “goodness” in everyone he met and “optimism” in everything he encountered. When not practicing law, he took enjoyment in handball, hunting, being a good husband and father and being a committed member of his church. While his passing was a truly sad time for family and friends, he will always be remembered as a man who wholeheartedly and consistently strove to be “the best that he could be” in all his endeavors.

The funeral service was held at the First Christian Church on Dec. 19, 2016, with the church filled to capacity with family and friends. The service was followed by a municipal police escort to the Fairmont Cemetery in San Angelo where he was laid to rest. A wonderful family man, a loyal friend, Phil always displayed a humility and gentleness that underscored his many achievements.

He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. (By family and friends)

Michael B. Hughes, ’62 Michael Bryant Hughes (the “Chief”), 75, died from heart failure at his home in Alexandria, Va., on Dec. 29, 2016, after a life of service to the United States. USAFA graduate, warrior, scholar, executive, husband, father and grandfather, Mike’s achievements over a span of 50 years exemplify our class motto, “Invictus Virtute” — Unconquerable Strength.

Chief was a member of “Friendly First” Squadron. Known for his Arizona heritage, intelligence, quick wit and gregarious, “hint of mischief” smile, he was consistently on the Dean’s List for academic achievement.

He excelled in Spanish and took advanced courses that ended with reading the Spanish edition of Don Quixote.

Upon graduation, he was commissioned an ensign in the Navy and began his career with pilot training at Pensacola NAS, where he earned his “Wings of Gold” and was assigned to the Replacement Air Group at Whidbey Island, Wash.

Attached to several patrol squadrons there, he flew the Lockheed P-2 Neptune on diverse anti-submarine and reconnaissance missions in the Pacific, Alaska, Japan and the Philippines. He pulled three tours in Vietnam, first flying Market Time patrols out of Tan Son Nhut with Patrol Squadron VP-1. Later, with Observation Squadron VO-67 (“The Ghost Squadron”), he flew OP-2E’s on dangerous, classified Igloo White missions out of Nakhon Phanom, dropping seismic and acoustic sensors over heavily-defended airspace of the Ho Chi Minh Trail. VO-67 lost three aircraft and 20 crewmen in those missions. In December of 2007, 40 years later due to secrecy, the squadron was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, the highest decoration for combat valor a unit can receive.

Mike returned to shore duty afterwards and attended the Fletcher School, Tufts University, earning two master’s degrees, plus a doctorate in international

diplomacy. He then qualified in the P-3 Orion and was stationed at Brunswick, Maine, tracking Soviet submarines on patrols out of Iceland, the Azores, Bermuda and the Mediterranean. A year-long exchange tour at the Peruvian Naval War College followed, after which he was commanding officer of Patrol Squadron 22 in Hawaii. He was later a faculty member of the National War College in Washington, D.C., then military assistant to the Secretary of Defense. His final assignment was as director of the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Executive Panel and assistant to the CNO. Mike retired in 1986 as a Navy captain, with 6,000-plus flying hours and 24-plus years of commendable service.

In his second career, he joined Martin Marietta. When Martin merged with Lockheed in 1995, he became VP and GM of Lockheed Martin’s Mk-41 Vertical Launching Systems in Middle River, Md., a job he described as “incredibly rewarding.” After 18 years with Lockheed Martin, he retired and began a third career as the owner of MBH Consulting.

Mike’s major awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters and the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat “V.” Funeral services for Mike were held on Jan. 3, 2017, at Christ Church in Alexandria, Va. Graveside services with full military honors will be at Arlington National Cemetery.

He is survived by Shirley Carlson Hughes, his wife of 54 years; two children, Richard Hughes of Alexandria and Heather Hughes Witwer of Denver; and six grandchildren.

The Chief was a rare man. His courage in Vietnam, military and civilian successes, and exemplary character prove that extraordinary men do live among us. As another RTB departs, we feel sorrow and a profound sense of loss, but the richness Mike Hughes brought into our lives is timeless. We were privileged to know him.

Mike, your Red Tag brothers salute you. (Bob Felts, classmate and friend, with help from Commander Rick Hughes, USN, son)

Anthony D. “Tony” Dunn, ’63 Lt. Col. (USAF, Ret) Anthony Douglas “Tony” Dunn, died on Oct. 24, 2015, with his family by his side.

Tony was born in La cCrosse, Wis., on Nov. 27, 1939. Before entering the Air Force Academy, he attended Penn State University.

After graduating from the Academy his first assignment was to Kelly AFB, San Antonio, Texas. There he became a procurement officer, a position he held throughout his career at many different levels.

It is also where he met and married his wife, Dianna Gardner. In Tony’s words, “It was love at first sight.” She was the love of his life, his “Sunshine.”

Following Kelly AFB, they were stationed at Lowry AFB, in Denver, Colo., where Tony was a procurement instructor. While stationed in Denver, they adopted two girls, Nicole and Jennifer.

Shortly afterwards they were transferred to Diyarbakir Station, Turkey. Once again Tony’s work was primarily in procurement. They were there for two years enjoying all of the adventures of living in a foreign country with their two young daughters.

On returning to the U.S., they were assigned to Tinker AFB, Okla., and then to Wright-Patterson AFB in Dayton, Ohio. There he attended and graduated from the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT). After his graduation he was selected to be an instructor at the AFIT Graduate School of Technology. Tony then returned to the procurement world before retiring from the Air Force at Wright-Patterson on Aug. 31, 1983.

Throughout their many assignments, Tony and Dianna were wonderful

about showing their daughters all the adventures and experiences possible. In addition to all of their travels, they had parties, fished, and went to the theater.

The family’s most often repeated experience was to change or remodel every house they ever lived in. While in Dayton they bought a 100-year-old brick house in an Appalachian ghetto that was later named a historic district, St. Anne’s Hill. According to Tony, this was Dianna’s find. She told him, “Come on, it’ll be fun.” After completing some remodeling just so they could move in to their home, they then undertook what turned out to be a six-year remodeling project. All was finished just in time to retire from the Air Force and move back to San Antonio.

Once settled, Tony and Dianna took over her mother’s distressed engraving business. Neither of them knew anything about the engraving world, but they jumped in together to learn and manage silk screening, nametags, signs, and engraving.

Nine years later, they closed Gardner Engraving and bought a bakery in Sattler, Texas. Both Dianna and Tony worked all aspects of running their new business until March 2014 when Dianna died. Tony then ran the bakery until he passed away in October of 2015. Their bakery had been open for 19 years, during which time they also completed a home demolition/rebuild along with two bakery expansions.

Tony was known as a quiet thinker with a bright mind and a keen sense of humor. His 18th Squadron classmates will always remember a phrase made up about him, “what’s done is Dunn”. He was a loving man who taught those who knew him about truth and human dignity. His life was dedicated to his country and his family.

Tony is survived by his daughters, Nicole Holloway and her husband, Steve; Jennifer Jurawitz and her husband, Matt; seven grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. (Tony’s daughter Nicole, with classmate and friend, Bill Ball)

Jack C. Paterno, Jr., ’64 Lt. Col. (USAF, Ret) Jack Casella Paterno, Jr. passed away on Oct. 22, 2016, at age 75. Born to Jack and Ruth Paterno in Port Chester, N.Y., he grew up in Greenwich, Conn., and graduated magna cum laude from Portsmouth Priory School, R.I. Jack was described in the Class of ’64 yearbook as “gentle… infused with a warm, selfless sensibility which moves him to champion the oppressed… and radical, selfconfident and thorough” as well as noting his “love for flying” which led to a lifelong career in aviation.

One USAFA underclassman who he trained remembered Jack as a “character” who “let him store Jack’s aircraft wheel spats in his overhead storage locker.” Another noted that when nose to nose with Jack, he could have a scary, malevolent tone, but “…in the end was a decent and fair guy who had a positive influence and was someone who the underclassmen looked up to.”.

After pilot training, Jack remained at Moody AFB as a T-38 IP. While at Moody, he kept a Piper Tri-Pacer at the Valdosta Airport which testified to the fact that he could never get too much flying. After leaving active duty, Jack was hired by TWA, but was furloughed within months leading him to join the Air National Guard, initially flying F-84Fs out of Otis AFB Mass.

During his time with TWA and Peoples Express, he flew the Boeing 707, 727, 747, the Convair 880 and the Lockheed L-1011. At the time of his passing, he was a pilot for NetJets flying corporate aircraft. During his Air Force and ANG career, he flew the T-37, T-38, F-84, T-33, F-5, F-100, F-105 and F-106. He was FAA certified as a flight engineer, air line transport pilot, and held ratings for rotorcraft (helicopter and gyroplane), glider and balloon.

A lifelong bachelor, Jack claimed all his possesions were mobile – a car

Gone But Not Forgotten Notifications

If you know of a graduate’s death, please notify the Association of Graduates by emailing customerservice@aogusafa. org or by calling (719) 472-0300. The AOG will then contact the next of kin and provide information on how to submit a Gone But Not Forgotten obituary to Checkpoints magazine. Due to editorial and print deadlines, please visit usafa.org for the most up to date information about graduate deaths.

Checkpoints · March 2017

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN and an airplane – although he did own a home that had access to a 4,000’ runway near McGuire AFB and later, a home outside Orlando, Fla. In a letter to his classmates one year, he said “Looking back, I can honestly say that I have thoroughly enjoyed it all and wouldn’t have it any other way. The real worth is in the friends we have made along the way.” He also stated his only permanency was “the good old USAF.” As one classmate stated, “Jack loved to fly and lived to fly.”

Jack was entombed at Woodlawn Cemetary in the Bronx, N.Y., and was predeceased by two siblings and survived by seven brothers and sisters. Jack loved and kept cats, and accoringly, any memorials in his name can be sent to the Burlington Animal Shelter, 35 Academy Drive, West Hampton, N.J. 08060.

(Jack’s 10th Squadron Classmates)

Donald Y. Thompson, ’66 Don (DY) Thompson, 72, passed away in Austin, Texas on May 31, 2016, from heart complications. His Methodist Church memorial service was crowded with family and friends from far and near who mourned his passing. The service included a beautiful Color Guard ceremony.

Don was born and raised in Houston, Texas. After high school graduation, he went to the Air Force Academy and graduated in 1966. His favorite activity while he was there was his job as a yearbook staff worker and photographer. That summer after graduation, Don’s adventurous spirit led him to the Grand Canyon where he walked to the bottom, spent the night, and waked back out.

Pilot training in Del Rio, Texas, was Don’s next school where he made many lifelong friends. From there he went to McChord AFB in Washington where he flew C-124s to about 60 countries around the world.

During the Vietnam War, Don went to Sheppard AFB in Wichita Falls, Texas, and cross-trained into the HH-53 (Jolly Green Giant) helicopter. While there, he met his future wife, Carolyn, who was an Air Force nurse. After the training he was stationed in Thailand. Don flew rescue and recovery missions to pick up shot down pilots. He received medals for each rescue. His highest medal was a Distinguished Flying Cross.

A few months after he returned home, Don married Carolyn. He became an instructor in Texas and later at Hill AFB, Utah, cross-training other pilots into helicopters. His first two sons, Steve and Jeff, were born there in Utah.

Don first attended Squadron Officer School at Maxwell AFB in Alabama. He was then selected as an instructor there for his next assignment. Out of his 13 classes, one was a Chief of Staff class and another was the top athletic class.

Before leaving Maxwell AFB, Don attended Air Command and Staff College.

His third son, Chris, was born there in Alabama.

Don was sent to Kirtland AFB, in New Mexico next. He obtained his Master of Arts degree in night school while he was there. Don’s final Air Force assignment was at Wright-Patterson AFB in Ohio. While there, Don was very involved in both the Night Hawk and the Pave Low helicopter programs.

When Don retired from the Air Force, he immediately went to work at Systems Research Laboratories in Dayton, Ohio, as a program manager where he continued to work with helicopters. He worked for the same company for 20 years although it changed names five times because of mergers with other companies. After living in Ohio for 17 years, Don’s company transferred him to Austin, Texas. After his second retirement, Don continued to stay busy.

Over the years, Don has been a member of the American Helicopter Society, a volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America, and he has served on numerous church committees. For 10 years Don did crisis line counseling and he taught the classes to others who volunteered to help. He ushered at many art venues for more than 20 years. Don has planned road rallies and scavenger hunts for groups. He has worked school carnivals and fairs. Don always enjoyed cooking for large groups, woodworking, collecting and watching classic movies, and solving challenging puzzle books. He also was an avid reader.

Don is survived by his wife of 45 years, Carolyn; sons Steve, Jeff and Chris; daughter-in-law Becky; and grandchildren Taylor, Ryann and C.J. (Don’s wife, Carolyn) 100 · usafa.org

Laney K. Cormney, ’67 Laney Cormney passed away on Sept. 8, 2016 in Melbourne, Fla. of metastic melanoma. He and his wife, Sarah, had recently moved to Melbourne to retire.

Laney was born on Oct. 21, 1945, in Danville, Ky. He was accepted into the United States Air Force Academy and from there began his exceptional military career. From instructor pilot (1975-1978) to commandant of The Defense Language Institute (19901993), his military journey was as varied as it was distinguished.

He was a pilot, staff officer, exchange student, embassy officer and commandant with service in Vietnam, Germany, France, Tunisia and Korea.

Laney is survived by his wife, Sarah; son, Tyler (Amy); brother Ben (Rhonda); niece Regan; and two nephews, Kyle and Gabriel. He was preceded in death by one son, Ryan, and his parents, Huston and Alline. Laney will be greatly missed by his family and the many friends he made while serving his country and in his retirement.

Laney was interred with military honors on Nov. 1, 2016, in Richmond, Ky. On Eagles Wings: “And He will raise you up on eagle’s wings, bear you the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of His hand.” (Sara Cormney, Laney’s wife)

Richard Michael Willett, ’67 Michael Willett, a proud member of the Class of 1967 and Tiger Ten, went to be with his Lord Dec. 24, 2016. In November, Michael suffered a massive heart attack. Fighting to the very end, he succumbed while in the University of North Carolina’s ICU. His burial and Celebration of Life services were conducted Dec. 30, 2016, in Raleigh, N.C. surrounded by family, friends and classmates.

At the Academy, Michael was constantly on the Dean’s List and earned a B.S. in mathematics. Due to a medical condition, upon graduation Michael was not tendered an Air Force commission. Known for not letting anything stand in his way, he joined eight ’67 Academy classmates at North Carolina State University (NCSU) where he earned his master’s degree in applied mathematics. In three short years, 1971, he earned his PhD in mathematics from NCSU. Michael’s dissertation focus was to use math to enhance cryptography and security protocol designs. He remained at NCSU teaching for a year before taking a position at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where he became the associate professor of mathematics and computer science and chair of the Computer Science Program.

In 1984, he left academia for a very successful career with high-tech companies. Michael’s expertise in such technical areas as security standards, storage, networking, privacy, cryptography and protocols was instrumental in each company’s success to grow revenue and expand their business.

His Tiger Ten classmates remember him as the ultimate team player, not worried about individual recognition, but focused on the success of his team or group. Michael’s low key and humble demeanor was a perfect mask for his considerable intellect, not to mention his wry, and sometimes wicked, sense of humor that endeared him to us.

Michael met the love of his life, Shirley Saleeby, in 1967 shortly after his Academy graduation. They married at Wilson, N.C., in 1971. Their marriage produced two sons, Nathan and Evan. Eventually their lives would also be graced by four grandchildren: Smith, June, Connor and Eleanor.

Despite Michael’s many academia and business responsibilities, family was always his number one priority. He transferred his own love for the outdoors to his two sons in multiple activities such as hiking, camping, kayaking in many swamps and rivers, and backpacking on the Appalachian Trail in the

Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Michael led a full and joyous life. He was a humble man always willing to assist those less fortunate or to lend a helping hand to those in need or struggling.

He led by example and it shows in his offspring and their positive outlook on life. He certainly turned out to be a “superhero” to his four grandchildren who adored their “papaw.”

Nathan and Evan recounted many stories about how, with his background in math, their Dad passed on his love of learning and curiosity to them. Michael loved to ask questions on topics of which he knew little in order to broaden his own horizons. One imbued with curiosity is also a good teacher. He led by example as evidenced by his wonderful family and the important values he passed on to his two sons. Michael always reflected positively on his years at the Air Force Academy. Those formative years shaped his character and his attention to the important aspects in his life. No matter the situation, he was always cheerful and always positive. Michael lifted you up with his cheerful grace and “let’s do this” attitude. Clearly, by any measure, Michael lived a rich, full life and we are all blessed to have known him. (Shirley, Nathan and Evan Willett with CS-10 ’67 classmates)

Charles K. Bergman, ’75 Col. Charles “Charlie” Kevin Bergman (USAF, Ret), 64, received his final orders to Heaven on Dec. 25, 2016.

Charlie was born in Minneapolis, Minn. on April 27, 1952, to Luther “Spud” Emmanuel and Margaret Louella Bergman.

Charlie spent a majority of his time during childhood fishing and hunting. He pursued his other interest of flying, and on his 16th birthday completed his first solo flight. This drove his passion for flying, leading to a 26-plus-year career in the Air Force.

Charlie entered the Air Force Academy in 1971 and graduated on June 4, 1975, with a Bachelors of Arts degree in behavioral science. That same day, he was married to the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Sherry Lee Holine. Together they would embark on a whirlwind of travel around the world.

After schooling, his first airplane to fly would be the KC-135. On the fast track, he would progress from copilot to senior Standardization/Evaluation (Stan/Eval) instructor copilot to aircraft commander within four and a half years. By 1983, Charlie would complete training in the B-52H aircraft. Two years later, Charlie headed north to K.I. Sawyer AFB. There he was assigned to the 644th Bomb Squadron as the B-52H instructor pilot and the 410th Bomb Wing Stan/Eval Branch as instructor/flight evaluator eventually becoming the chief of the Stan/Eval Branch.

Charlie would eventually move his family half way across the world to Yokota AFB. There his primary duty would be the chief of the Combat Plans Branch, which was responsible for developing joint/combined military plans supporting U.S. national security objectives in the Pacific. If you asked Charlie what the highlight of his entire military career was, he would tell you that it was being the commander of the largest bomb squadron in the Air Force, the 644th Bomb Squadron. There he pioneered the wing concept, commanding the first heavy bomber squadron to combine operations and maintenance into a one-war fighting team. Charlie would be chief in the Fighter/Bomber Assignments Branch at Randolph AFB. There he was responsible for the professional development and assignment actions impacting more than 18,000 fighter and bomber pilots, navigators, and weapon system officers from wing to DOD levels. In addition, he would also serve as chief of the Assignment Issues Division managing policies for both the officer and enlisted force. By 2000, Charlie would retire out of the Pentagon as a colonel. Charlie would continue working

in aviation safety for various organizations until 2012, when he and Sher retired to their native state of Minnesota.

Besides his love for flying in the Air Force, Charlie and Sher adopted two children from Korea, Holly and Nicholas. This act led to a commitment of fostering 60-plus newborns in their home. Whenever asked how many newborns he and his family did foster, Charlie would tell you that he lost count at about 60 (the count last heard was at 64).

The last few years of his life, Charlie could be found splitting his time as president of the local Sportsman’s Club and taking his sweetheart fishing. He was proud to serve God, family, and country. (The Bergman Family)

William A. “Andy” Raines III, ’82 Our dear William Andrew “Andy” Raines III died unexpectedly on Nov. 28, 2016. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, cousin, uncle, friend, and pilot who sacrificially loved and served his family well.

Andy was born on May 14, 1960 in Columbia, S.C., but had an exciting childhood in Germany, the Philippines, and Georgia due to his father’s military service in U.S. Air Force. He graduated from Warner Robins High School in Warner Robins, Ga. with dozens of sports accolades, and points shy of valedictorian. He fulfilled his childhood dream when he attended the Air Force Academy (Class of ’82), graduating with honors in mechanical engineering. He was a brilliant pilot, beginning his career with the U.S. Air Force and later retiring from the Kentucky Air National Guard as a highly-decorated lieutenant colonel. Post-military retirement, he flew and instructed as one of the most highly esteemed captains at UPS. His reputation for hard work and perfection were evident as he never missed a day of work in more than 30 years. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family -- flying all over the world -- while still being present at the delivery of every child’s birth, their proms, soccer games, recitals, and all the “little things” that really were the “big things.” Andy became a member of Southeast Christian Church (Louisville) in 1992, where he taught his children about Jesus and encouraged them to place their faith in Christ through his sacrificial love.

He also belonged to the Independent Pilots Association, where he was known for being a faithful friend and a having good laugh.

He was an incredible athlete from childhood, excelling at any sport. In adulthood, he loved playing in golf tournaments with his sons, dad, and brother and several good friends -- they usually always won. He loved Starbucks mochas, watching football (he followed the Oakland Raiders since he was a boy), fixing everything broken, and doing Sudoku in record time. He could always be counted on to be a valet, provide a free meal, or be Mr. Fix-It. He answered every midnight phone call from his kids (ages 12-29), and never hesitated to rescue a stranded driver or fix a failing washing machine. He took pleasure in attending every event or sports game of his seven children that adored him.

Anyone who met him will remember his quick wit, keen sense of humor, selfless generosity, and how he made friends with any stranger. Most importantly, Andy was a devoted husband who fiercely loved his children. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

Andy was preceded in death by his daughter, Caroline Grace Raines.

He is survived by his former wife of 31 years and the mother of his children, Sheila Raines; his children Kellie Elizabeth Denton (Adam), William Andrew Raines IV, Christopher Allen Raines, Brian Matthew Raines, Zachary Mitchell Raines, Jeremy Nathaniel Raines and Jolie Michelle Raines; his grandson Avery Law Denton; his parents, William Andrew Raines, Jr. and Marilyn Smith Raines; and his brother, Michael Anthony Raines.

Gone But Not Forgotten Notifications

If you know of a graduate’s death, please notify the Association of Graduates by emailing customerservice@aogusafa. org or by calling (719) 472-0300. The AOG will then contact the next of kin and provide information on how to submit a Gone But Not Forgotten obituary to Checkpoints magazine. Due to editorial and print deadlines, please visit usafa.org for the most up-to-date information about graduate deaths.

Checkpoints · March 2017

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN After a beautiful and widely-attended funeral and visitation at Southeast Christian Church (Louisville, Ky.), Andy was given a full military burial at historic Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, Ky. (Kellie Elizabeth Denton, Andy’s daughter)

Richard L. Fullerton, ’83 Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Richard Lee Fullerton passed away at home on Dec. 12, 2016. He was born Aug. 10, 1961, to Allan and Ruby Fullerton in Moab, Utah.

After graduating as valedictorian from Norman High School in Oklahoma, Rich attended the United States Air Force Academy where he graduated first in the Class of ’83.

While in Colorado Springs, he met the love of his life, Brenda Lee. They married after graduation in June.

He went on to ENJJPT (Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training) at Sheppard AFB and, after completing both pilot training and becoming a First Assignment Instructor Pilot in the T-38, Rich began flying the F-15C Eagle at Bitburg AB, Germany.

Following multiple assignments across the world, he finally arrived in his dream job as a permanent professor and department head of economics and geosciences at USAFA, where he finished the last 13 years of his 31-year distinguished career.

Richard’s priorities in life were God and family. He was active in his church, First Baptist Church of Black Forest. He had three children, Matthew, Sarah, and Daniel, and loved them all dearly.

Rich is survived by his wife, Brenda; children Matthew and Sarah; daughterin-law Karleigh; grandchild Rachel; his mother, Ruby; and his two brothers, Ron and Randy.

He left us to be with his Lord and Savior, as well as his father, Allan, and son, Daniel.

A memorial service was held on Dec. 16, 2016, at the Air Force Academy Cadet Chapel. He was interred at the Academy Cemetery with military honors.

(Capt. Matt Fullerton, USAFA ’10, Rich’s son)

Gregory D. Faltin, ’87 Greg Faltin died suddenly of a massive heart attack on Dec. 28, 2016. He was 50 years old. An athlete and a cyclist, it was a shock to all who knew him. Greg was the consummate gentleman. His integrity and purpose-driven life were beyond reproach.

Everything he did, he did for his family. He loved to laugh and never tired of telling his Academy stories. Being a cadet, a grad, and a fighter pilot were at the core of who Greg was and how he lived. He will be lovingly remembered.

Born on Long Island on Feb. 25, 1966, and raised in Miami, Greg attended an air show as a small boy. From that time forward, he was on a quest to become a fighter pilot. Graduating from Miami Sunset High School in 1983, he received an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy and majored in electrical engineering.

As an ’87 grad, Greg attended Undergraduate Pilot Training at Enid AFB, Okla. Finishing at the top of his class, he received an F-16 Falcon and realized his life-long dream. Fighter Lead-in School at Holloman AFB, N.M., was followed by RTU at MacDill AFB, Fla. It was at MacDill’s chapel on April 15, 1989, that Greg served as a saber-bearer in a squadron buddy’s wedding and met Capt. Krista Hagan, an Air Force JAG (Judge Advocate General) from Louisville, Ky. The two were married on March 3, 1990, and began a life of adventure together -- building their family, traveling, and enjoying the outdoors.

Greg flew for the 308th Emerald Knights at Homestead AFB, Fla., eventually earning Wing Top Gun. His call sign, “Toasty,” was the result of his skill and aplomb in landing his F-16 while it was engulfed in flames. He wore the moniker proudly. Greg never sought recognition for his accomplishments. It 102 · usafa.org

was enough for him to live by the mantra, “When it’s too tough for you, it’s just right for me.” He was a quiet but fierce competitor whose goal was to always remain under the radar.

After finishing his assignment at the F-16 SPO at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, in 1995, Greg joined the private sector. Accepting an engineering position at York International in Richmond, Va., he met the challenge with his usual enthusiasm. In 1998, he moved his family to Krista’s hometown of Louisville, Ky., and was hired by Harshaw Trane, Inc. as a design and sales engineer. Greg loved his work and was highly respected by his colleagues and customers.

Living in Louisville longer than anywhere else, he relished putting down roots in a place he came to call “home.”

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Krista Hagan Faltin; 23-year-old daughter Sophia Marie, and 20-year-old son Sehr Joseph. While Greg demurred about his own successes, that characteristic did not apply where his children were concerned. Incredibly proud of Sophia and Sehr’s accomplishments, he was most proud of who they are. “Good citizen” was a finite concept for Greg. Integrity, honor, and doing the right thing were all that mattered to him. We are incredibly lucky that he was ours. “…here is the deepest secret nobody knows (here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud and the sky of the sky of a tree called life, which grows higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide) and this is the wonder that’s keeping the stars apart I carry your heart (I carry it in my heart)”e e cummings (Krista Hagan Faltin, wife of Greg)

Scott M. Maser, ’87 Lt. Col. (Ret) Scott M. Maser, age 51, passed away on Oct. 23, 2016, following a four-month battle with leukemia. He is survived by his wife, Kelly; his children Ashleigh, Austin, Abigayle, Cody, Jenny Beth, and Josh; and his granddaughter Aubrey.

Scott was born on June 15, 1965, in Glen Cove, N. Y. He grew up in upstate New York graduating from Millbrook High School in 1983. He then entered USAFA where he played lacrosse and earned his bachelor of science degree in computer science.

He proudly served for more than 20 years in the Air Force, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. He was a career pilot with assignments instructing the T-37 at Vance AFB and gliders at the Air Force Academy. Following those assignments, he was a C-5 instructor at Dover AFB. He then served as the chief of Presidential Airlift Support before returning to Dover to the 3rd Airlift Squadron as the operations officer during Operations ENDURING and IRAQI FREEDOM. Later he returned to the Academy to command the 34th Training Squadron. His military career culminated as the 1st Group AOC where his legacy lives on even today as his former cadets still stop to tell stories of their harrowing times in 1st Group. Following retirement, he continued his life of service at NORAD/USNORTHCOM supporting the mission as a leader, valued problem solver, and trusted friend.

Scott was known first and foremost as a devoted husband and father. He lovingly served his wife and six children every moment of every day. Through his example, he raised some of the most loving, caring, and successful children a father could possibly imagine. Those qualities translated to his Air Force family as well. As a leader, he was noted for his dedication to his team and his passion for ensuring his airmen were always fully prepared for success in countless long missions supporting military operations overseas.

In all aspects of his life, he was ultimately known as a servant leader who always put the needs of others before his own. He leaves a tremendous legacy of lives that will forever be positively impacted by his leadership. As memorialized on his grave marker at USAFA, Scott was and always will be known for “Putting Others First.” (Col. Todd Maser, Scott’s brother and USAFA Class of ‘95, with the help of Scott’s wife, Kelly)

David J. Goodale, ’04 On Dec. 12, 2016, Maj. David Jude Goodale completed this earthly mission called life and went to his eternal home after a year-long battle with illness. David is survived by his devoted wife, Jacque Desilyn Goodale, and his four beloved children: Desilyn, Jude, Avery and Nina (ages 7, 5, 3 and 1); his adoring parents, Tracy and Maxine Goodale; grandmother Mary Goodale; aunt and uncle Becky and Walt Williams; aunt Gwynn Hall; and cousins Tina McMillin, Candace Bailey and Melody Antles. David was preceded in death by his grandfathers, James Hall and Jude Goodale; his grandmother Irene Hall; and his uncle Lloyd Hall.

David has been described by many who knew him as a man after God’s own heart. He faithfully served God, his family, his friends and the U.S. Air Force.

David was born on Nov. 3, 1981, in Colorado Springs, Colo. His parents raised him with love and laughter, surrounded by local family. They shared him with the U.S. Air Force family when he graduated from Palmer High School in 2000 and entered the Academy. David thrived as a cadet, student and wingman, first in Tiger Ten (Huzzah!), then in Mighty Mach One. He was an English major, a Falcon football team manager and a kind, generous friend to all.

Upon graduation and commissioning, David was stationed at Minot AFB, N.D., awaiting pilot training, which he then began at Moody AFB, Ga., and completed at Laughlin AFB, Texas. While pursuing his love of flying, David also found another love, his cherished Jacque. With wings proudly pinned on his chest and his bride by his side, David joined the C-17 community after specialized training at Altus AFB, Okla. With that, David and Jacque began their trek through active-duty family life. From his first assignment at McChord AFB, Wash., and from deployed locations, David flew routine and combat airlift missions around the globe, to include Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, Turkey, South America and the Pacific Rim. Meanwhile, on the home front, the Goodale family grew, as David and Jacque brought Desilyn into the world.

Next, David was assigned as an instructor pilot at Altus AFB, Okla., where they had Jude, Avery and Nina and filled the house with even more love and laughter in true Goodale fashion. From there, David deployed to the U.S. Embassy in Ethiopia and served with distinction in his official capacity while also volunteering his free time to enrich the lives of local school children. Upon returning to Altus AFB, David worked with the KC-46 integration team. For his hard work and dedication throughout his career, David was selected to attend Intermediate Development Education (IDE) in Spain.

Before they moved overseas, David began suffering from headaches and vision problems, ultimately explained by a mass deep in his brain. Through a craniotomy and countless other procedures and tests, David poured all his physical, mental, emotional and spiritual strength into battling the illness while still occasionally quoting scripture, dancing, singing and praying with family, friends and hospital staff alike. When the battle was over, with his hand in his wife’s, the Lord gave them both peace and called David home.

Maj. David Goodale was buried with military honors at the U.S. Air Force Academy on Dec. 29, 2016. On that day, family and friends at the funeral and in spirit celebrated David’s life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the Goodale family identified the KMI Scholarship as a way to honor his memory. The scholarship allows airmen and college student to attend the Navigator’s annual Key Men Discipleship Conference. Martharoad.infellowhsip.com. (David’s loving family)

Jonathan L. Myers, ’05 Jonathan L. Myers, age 33, formerly of Davenport, Iowa, passed away on August 4th, 2016 in Miramar, Fla. after suffering a 109-degree heat stroke. Burial with honors was held at the National Cemetery, Rock Island Arsenal.

Jonathan was born Oct. 13, 1982, in Frankfurt, Germany to Sona and Leroy Myers.He attended school in Davenport, graduating from Davenport Central High School in 2001. After graduation, he attended USAFA, graduating in 2005 with a B.S. in mechanical engineering. He graduated from flight school in 2007. He attained the rank of captain and served as a refueling pilot on a KC-135 with the 91st Air Refueling Squadron, 6th Air Mobility Wing, (AMC), MacDill Air Force Base, Fla. Jonathan flew 173 combat missions with the 379th Expeditionary Wing over the skies of Afghanistan and Iraq in support of operations ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM. Captain Myers was awarded the Air Medal with two oak leaf clusters for his outstanding airmanship and aerial accomplishments. He was honorably discharged in 2012 and took a position as trading manager for AeroTurbine Inc. in Miami. He oversaw trading, leasing, and sales of aircraft engines, parts, and airplanes in a demanding environment. Jon was on the fast track for success; he loved and cared for everybody he worked with.

Jonathan was always a friendly, happy, funny, witty kid and a gentleman.

He made friendships all over the country. Jon was a Boy Scout and member of the Moline Boys Choir. He loved football. He was a star receiver at Davenport Central High School and also played a year at the Academy. He loved the camaraderie. His wrestling and baseball teams won city championships. As for his track career, he ran hurdles for four years at Davenport Central. Jon qualified for state three years and was a Drake Relays finalist. He continued his career at the Academy, where he ran the 110m hurdles. In the shuttle hurdle relay at the Drake Relays, he recorded the third fastest time in the world. He was the captain of the Academy track team his senior year.

You couldn’t think about Jon without thinking about dancing and music. He took pride in being a member of the Central Singers Showchoir. Jon was known for his dance moves. He was also a part of the band at Central High School and was the Gospel Choir director at the Academy.

Jonathan loved life; he packed a lifetime of experience into 33 years. He traveled all over the world, including a stint as the refueling pilot for a Blue Angels world tour. He was able to live out of both sides of his brain from engineering, to flying, to dancing, to sports. He made good friends wherever he went. I’m sure the thought of Jonathan Myers would bring a smile to all who knew him.

He was truly reflecting the light of the LORD to the world around him. He loved God and trusted Him deep in his heart. We were all blessed to have Jon in our life. He was truly a good son, big brother and friend. He was goodness.

Jon is survived by his parents, Greg and Sona Guy; sisters Hannah and Shannon Guy and Dana Jones of Champaign, Ill.; grandparents John and Beverly Guy of Deerfield, Ill.; aunts and uncles Cheryl and John Moody of Littleton, Colo., Susie and David Emery of Deerfield, Ill., John and Robin Guy of Lake Forest, Ill., Grace Yi of Dallas, Texas, and Ho-Young Yi and Ho-Chul Yi of Busan, South Korea. (Jon’s loving family)

Gone But Not Forgotten Notifications

If you know of a graduate’s death, please notify the Association of Graduates by emailing customerservice@aogusafa. org or by calling (719) 472-0300. The AOG will then contact the next of kin and provide information on how to submit a Gone But Not Forgotten obituary to Checkpoints magazine. Due to editorial and print deadlines, please visit usafa.org for the most up-to-date information about graduate deaths.

Checkpoints · March 2017

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN Carson G. Bird, ’08 Retired Air Force Capt. Carson Grady Bird, age 31, of Newnan, Ga., passed away Nov. 26, 2016, surrounded by his loving family. After being diagnosed with chondrosarcoma in September 2015, Carson inspired many by his faith, strength, and determination through countless surgeries, treatments, and rehabilitation at the Center for the Intrepid (CFI).

Carson has donated his body to advance medical research and understanding of this rare form of bone cartilage cancer.

Carson is survived by his wife, Brittany Jean Bird; grandfather James William Bird, Hilton Head Island, S.C.; father, Michael Gorham Bird, Forsyth, Ga.; brothers William Taylor Bird, Virginia Beach, Va., and Gorham Williams (Jamie) Bird, Palmetto, Ga.; nieces and nephews, Kylee Ann Bird, Brenden Knight Bird, James Bennett Bird, Owen Lane Bird, and Emersyn June Bird; “The Great 8”; loving aunts and uncles; and numerous cousins, who are more like siblings. Carson was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Marguerite Grady Bird (2006); maternal grandfather, William Ronald Biggs (2011); mother, Belinda Sue Biggs, for whom he helped provide care following a very rare sarcoma (2014); and maternal grandmother, Ruth Ann Biggs (2015).

Carson was born May 14, 1985, in Beaufort, S.C. After his first three years of life enjoying the beaches of Hilton Head Island, the Bird family spent the next three in Muskegon, Mich., followed by five years skiing the slopes of Boise, Idaho, and three years on the water in Spirit Lake, Iowa. The family then moved to Sharpsburg, Ga., where Carson graduated from Northgate High School in 2003. Following high school, Carson attended the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School. Carson earned a degree in social sciences and graduated a second lieutenant from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 2008, a feat celebrated by sharing a fist bump with President Bush at graduation. Carson would later go on to earn his master’s degree in sports management in 2015.

Since he was old enough to run and catch, a football was always in Carson’s hands. Starting early with flag football to breaking records in high school, Carson was born to play the game. The sport would help develop Carson’s self-confidence, determination, and ability to persevere through any adversity.

While attending the U.S. Air Force Academy, Carson played football all four years as a defensive back and became a forever member of the Bolt Brotherhood, for whom he’d draw on for support through the remainder of his life.

Carson was known for his innate understanding of the game and was honored as a 2007 All-Mountain West Conference defensive back. In September 2016, Carson was the honorary football captain of the Air Force Falcons at Falcon Stadium with the Bolt Brotherhood by his side.

Carson served in the U.S. Air Force as a communications officer for eight years before his medical retirement in July 2016. During his U.S. Air Force career, Carson served overseas while deploying to Qatar in 2010. Following his first deployment, he was promoted to captain in 2012. Carson’s final deployment was to Afghanistan in 2012. Following his last deployment, Carson would return to the Air Force Preparatory School to coach the defensive backs.

During the off season, Carson enjoyed playing guitar, fishing, snowboarding and other adrenaline-inducing activities. After receiving the cancer diagnosis, Carson and Brittany, then his fiancé, moved back to Georgia in 2016 to be close to family and undergo treatment. Carson would stand at the alter as the two would exchange wedding vows before family and friends on Aug. 13, 2016.

Carson and Brittany both recommitted their lives to God and were baptized in October of 2016. (Carson’s loving family)

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Jeffrey T. Braden, ’11 Capt. Jeffrey “Bull” Braden was born June 16, 1988, in San Antonio, Texas, and passed away in Guam on Sept. 23 2016. His memorial service was in the 199/19th Squadron hangar at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) in Hawaii. Bull graduated in 2007 from Reicher Catholic High School in Waco, Texas. Following graduation, he attended the United States Air Force Academy and was commissioned in 2011. While at USAFA, Bull played football his first year and later joined the rodeo team and became captain of the team. He also belonged to a bowling league and enjoyed intramural sports at both USAFA and at each following assignment.

After commissioning, he attended pilot training at Laughlin AFB, Texas, followed by Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals at Randolph AFB, Texas. He was a distinguished graduate of both courses. Bull then attended the F-22A Basic Course at Tyndall AFB, Fla., where he was once again a distinguished graduate.

Bull’s first operational assignment following his F-22A training was to the 199/19th Fighter Squadron, JBPHH, where he served as the squadron’s electronic combat pilot, chief of scheduling and mission commander. Recognizing Bull’s extraordinary talent, he was handpicked for early upgrade to F-22A two-ship flight lead. He flew combat missions in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE and led his first combat mission within one month of his flight lead certification. Following deployment, he quickly upgraded to fourship flight lead, achieved his mission commander upgrade and was selected to begin instructor pilot upgrade. Bull was two years ahead of his scheduled timeline for upgrades.

As the squadron’s Electronic Combat Officer, Bull flawlessly completed 60 hours of academics and five tests, culminating in his graduation from the F-22A mission planning course. Using his expertise, he created and instructed four squadron academic courses, administering PhD-level lessons in aerial combat to 30 squadron pilots over the next year. Additionally, he personally provided more than 800 hours of 24/7 alert operations to the Hawaii Air Defense Region, where he perfectly executed two no-fail airborne alert evaluations.

Bull’s major awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Aerial Achievement Medal, the Combat Readiness Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Medal. His other achievements include the AETC Commander’s Trophy, the SUPT Flying Training Award and Top Stick Award, the IFF Air to Air Top Gun, the F-22A Basic Course River Rat Award, the 199/19th Flight Squadron Wingman of the Year and the 15th Wing Operations Group Pilot of the Year. He was also inducted as a member of the Order of Daedalians.

Bull is survived by his wife, the former Layne Smith of Waco, Texas; his daughter Mackenzie and unborn son Jeffrey, Jr., who was due in January; his parents, Tom and Laura Braden; his three sisters and their families; his parents-in-law, Jeff and Leah Smith; and a brother-in-law and his family.

Together, he and Layne explored and discovered everything they could about the places they served, and he proudly passed on his adventurous spirit to his children. He loved being outdoors, surfing, stand-up paddling, snorkeling, backpacking, hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, golfing, and anything related to sports. Above all he loved spending time with his wife, daughter, and their faithful dog Daisy. His mission each day was to become a better pilot, husband, and father. He was dedicated to being the best each and every day and never settled for less. He loved every new adventure God provided, and he positively impacted lives every single day. The new motto for family and friends is “Be A Bull!” (Layne Braden, spouse)

Johnathon M. Haase, ’13 On Nov. 23, 2016, in Warrensburg, Mo., 1st Lt. Johnathon M. Haase passed away at the young age of 25. Johnathon graduated in 2013 from the USAFA and went on to attend training at Goodfellow AFB, to become an intelligence officer. Upon completion of training, Johnathon was assigned to the 509th Operations Support Squadron at Whiteman AFB, home of the B-2 bombers.

Johnathon was selfless and had an overwhelming calmness and peacefulness about him. Although he was quiet and soft-spoken in nature, he was a natural born leader. His peers, subordinates, and in some instances, his bosses, would seek his guidance and direction. He stood up for those who didn’t have a voice and always saw the good in those around him.

Johnathon viewed the world differently than most people. He always took the time, regardless of his work load, to have an open mind and listen without prejudgment; whether it was a dissenting opinion, a fellow comrade seeking advice, or just someone who needed to talk. Johnathon was grounded in his faith and his own convictions. He was very perceptive and complex while analyzing any situation and had wisdom beyond his years.

Johnathon strived to live a life of simplicity. He loved to travel and sought out adventure; whether it was flying solo in a glider, jumping out of perfectly good airplane, scuba diving (while “working” when he was TDY), and completing extreme challenges like “GORUCK” or “Spartan Races”, he lived life to the fullest each and every day. One of his favorite books “VAGABONDING – An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel” speaks to his mindset.

As we mourn the passing of a son, brother, and comrade, let us strive to continue his legacy of simplicity; seeing the beauty in life and in others, but most of all look beyond the fault of others, and letting go of any wrongs without harboring ill feelings. Instead, love and appreciate each day, focus on an individual’s strengths in lieu of their weaknesses, lift one another up, and engage with everyone daily regardless of their status or rank.

Engraved within his class ring is a scripture from the Bible: Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 1st Lt. Johnathon Haase was interred with full military funeral honors on Dec. 5, 2016, at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Milledgeville, Ga. He is survived by his father and mother (David and Maria), his sister (Samantha), and his brother (Emilio). Friends and family members donated to Warriors Heart Foundation (non-profit 501c3) www.operationwarriorsheart. org to exemplify Johnathon’s selfless service.

A memorial page has been established at www.born2climb.net.

HAWKS… READY TO FIGHT! (Mr. and Mrs. David Haase, Johnathon’s parents)

At press time we learned of the deaths of the following graduates, cadet and Air Training Officer: • Maj. Gen. (Ret) Frank E. Willis, Class of 1961, who died on Feb. 23, 2017.

• Col. (Ret) Richard L. Hodgkinson, Class of 1962, who died on Jan. 26, 2017, in Bedford, N.H. • Dr. Gary M. Johnson, Class of 1966, who died on Dec. 31, 2016, in Ft. Collins, Colo.

• Lt. Col. (Ret) Matthew Szczepanek, Class of 1967, who died on Jan. 21, 2017, in Placerville, Calif.

• Col. (Ret) Rodney O. Weeks, Class of 1967, who died on Jan. 27, 2017.

• Lt. Col. (Ret) Thomas J. Meyer, Class of 1968, who died on Nov. 25, 2016, in Martinsville, Va. • Mr. Theodore E. Keefer, III, Class of 1970, who died on Aug. 4, 2016.

• Col. (Ret) Harry F. Davis, Class of 1971, who died on Jan. 26, 2017, in Macedonia, Ohio.

• Col. (Ret) Karl J. “John” Hurdle, Class of 1977, who died on Feb. 10, 2017.

• Ms. Mary J. Snyder, Class of 1980, who died on April 16, 2016, in Woodinville, Wash.

• Mr. Donald N. Blue, Class of 1985, who died on Feb. 9, 2017, at Denison, Texas.

• Capt. Andrew C. Finley, Class of 2012, who died on Nov. 17, 2016, in Springville, Tenn.

• Capt. Kyle S. Hansen, Class of 2012, who died on Feb. 8, 2017, at Gig Harbor, Wash.

• C4C Timothy R. Barber, Class of 2020, who died on Dec. 31, 2016, in McKinney, Texas.

• Mr. Richard O. Day, Air Training Officer, who died on Dec. 22, 2016, in Aiken, S.C. Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of these graduates, cadet and Air Training Officer.

AOG Written Obituary/Tribute Procedures Outlined The Association of Graduates receives numerous questions concerning written obituaries/tributes in Checkpoints, specifically why some graduates do not have obituaries appear in the magazine.

The AOG procedure is once the details of a graduate or cadet death are verified, that notice is placed on the AOG website and listed in the next magazine’s “At Presstime” section. Shortly thereafter, the president and CEO sends a condolence letter to the next of kin informing them that the obituary editor will be contacting them shortly for an obituary submission.

Next, the obituary editor sends a letter to the next of kin asking that they provide a writer for the obituary and a photograph of the deceased. The obituary is limited to 600 words maximum and a deadline for the next magazine is included.

If the obituary and photograph appear by the deadline and are within the parameters necessary for magazine publication, the obituary appears in the next magazine. If not, a second letter is sent to the next of kin after that magazine is published asking for the obituary and photograph again with a deadline for the next magazine. The next of kin is also notified in the second letter that this will be the last request for an obituary.

If the requested materials do not appear by the second deadline, no further action is taken and the obituary does not appear.

Gone But Not Forgotten Notifications

If you know of a graduate’s death, please notify the Association of Graduates by emailing customerservice@aogusafa. org or by calling (719) 472-0300. The AOG will then contact the next of kin and provide information on how to submit a Gone But Not Forgotten obituary to Checkpoints magazine. Due to editorial and print deadlines, please visit usafa.org for the most up-to-date information about graduate deaths.

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS “How do you know there’s a fighter pilot in the room? He will tell you.” One of RL Penn’s most famous witticisms! Many of our classmates stopped by and watched the Army game with RL. To them, Eugenia wrote: “I am writing this note of appreciation to all of you who watched the Army-Air Force game with our dear classmate RL. During the game, I watched RL looking around the room and taking in his classmates. I thought to myself how very proud I am of all of you, just how much your being there meant to RL, and how fortunate I am to count you as my dearest friends.”

He will be missed by all of us.

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RL Penn with classmates and wives.

Jack Howell reports on a visit with former Illinois All-American gymnast and our first USAFA Gymnastics Team coach, Bob Sullivan, at Lighthouse Point near Ft. Lauderdale. He is full of stories about the team, especially how he would hold his breath when someone would attempt a new routine given cadet predilections for Members risky behavior. Bob asked Jack 85% to invite former 1955-1959 gymnasts to get in touch if you are in the area.

Bobby Blake and three generations of his family attended a ceremony at Hickam AFB to name the new tower in honor Sabre Society of his father, Lt. Gen. Gordon Donors Blake. During the attack on Pearl 21 Harbor, Dec. 7, 1941, General Blake, then a major, rushed to the Hickam tower and successfully landed 21 unarmed B-17s at five different airfields. For his actions, he received the Silver Star. This ceremony was part of the 75th remembrance of the attack on Hickam Field.

As an aside, when Bobby graduated from USAFA, he became a member of the very first family to have graduates from the three military academies.

Wally LeLand is the officer who set up our first glider program. Dusty Trail was the first cadet to solo in gliders; remember the Buckley Bombing Range? Dusty reports that he visited the Academy and attended a lecture by Wally to the Aero Department on the origins of the soaring program that will become part of the archive. Of interest, I coached the Cadet Soaring Team from ’69-’71. ATO Herm Gillster’s granddaughter is training to be an instructor in the program. Dusty also commented on his 106 · usafa.org

pleasure with the high quality of the current cadets.

Veterans Airlift Command is a country-wide organization of pilots formed to fly combatwounded veterans for medical or other compassionate purposes at no charge. It was founded by Walter Fricke, a helicopter pilot severely injured in Vietnam, who lives here in Punta Gorda, FL. Dick Goetze has just flown his 26th Hero Flight! Congratulations, Dick. He relates that flying a double, triple or quadruple amputee with his family, or someone who just got a service dog to assist with his PTSD, is a great way to assist them, but also an opportunity to recognize how fortunate we are.

Those patriots have fantastic attitudes. Dick is also active in mentoring the Belize National Security Council Staff on revising their National Security Strategy. We look for them to become a first-rate security power soon. Dick also reports a great ’59er turnout for Molly Connally’s Celebration of Life.

Our condolences to Jim. N1553A has departed the house on 29 Dec 2016!

Paul Lasen has sold his faithful “Lady.” His log book has 57 years and 12,000 hours of accidentfree flying and his instructor license is good for two more years in case you have an airplane that needs flying. Paul reports: “What a wonderful way to live and see the earth from above. I love it. Life is good”. Congratulations to you, Paul.

Paul Lasen with his “Lady” N1553A. Bill and Anna Telford sent a bit about the East Coast (Upper) group’s annual Christmas Party at the Boars Head Inn in Charlottesville, VA. The annual East Coast ’59er Christmas Party, held at the Boars Head Inn and Resort in Charlottesville, VA was a smashing success this year – 27 in attendance! Surprise guests were Brock and Claire Strom, who now live in the Annapolis area, ATO Beau Puryear, and Eula Huff (General Harmon’s daughter). The “miracle man”, Steve Hamer, looks good enough to step into the cockpit. Wayne and Bonnie Jefferson hosted the party! Following a

short reading of remembrance by Wayne of the comrades we lost this year and a moment of silence, they all sat down to a delicious buffet lunch. Attendees, in addition to the above mentioned surprise guests, were Wayne and Bonnie Jefferson, Dick and Vera Goetze, Kozy and Bev Kozelka, Mike Bender, H.T. and Anne Johnson, Fred and Brenda Wynn, Judy Jay, Brenda Welch, Jim Connally, Steve Hamer, Joe and Janet Morgan, Kent and Fredda Montavon, Ron and Judy Lanman and Bill and Anna Telford. (See photo at the bottom of the page.)

Max and Trix Miller met with ATO Bob Hess and his wife Kaye. Bob is still active in the Academy history and developed, produced and delivered an ATO Biography Book. A tip of the hat to Bob! Max says that we ’59ers might get the same thing going?

Nostalgia for many of us. The last Air Force F-4 Phantom Fighters were retired on December 20th.

In attendance was Greg Boyington and the setting was the North Field of Holloman AFB, NM where Greg flew his last F-4 flight. The Phantom Phlyers among us will relate to Greg’s experience: “As I walked among the F-4’s undergoing preflight for the last time, I was reminded of the many beautiful early mornings I had spent on that ramp. We were treated to a four-ship formation, with several formation looks from different directions, four sonic booms, and many single-ship low-level highspeed subsonic passes, with that distinct scream of the twin J-79s. The fire department set up two fire trucks for the aircraft to taxi under for a final hose down. The final ceremony took place in the maintenance hangar with about 500 in attendance. The wing commander, Colonel Spain, conducted the ceremony with a description of the 53-year service and multiple roles the F-4 played during her long service. The oldest F-4 pilot in attendance was M/G Bill Acker who was in the original cadre of the F-4 in 1964”. Thanks, Greg, for your first-hand report!

If you are a Facebook curmudgeon, as I am, I would still encourage each of you to join the ’59er website. Jim Reed has built a private website for us so that our information is not open on FB. Just email Jim and he will give you the details. We have had some great discussions on the site – well, in truth, they were more tests of our aging memories of the “olden times”, like most recently how the Falcon became our mascot.

Here at home I successfully dedicated the Vietnam Wall of Southwest Florida with Joe and Janet Morgan in attendance. Jean couldn’t be there as

Christmas gathering of East Coast ’59ers at Boar’s Head Inn.

she was in El Salvador helping to build houses for the poor with Unbound.

Thought for the Quarter: “The hardest thing in the world to understand is the income tax.” Albert Einstein.

lower than their former home in COS. The have family roots in the area and enjoy their proximity to Flathead Lake, the largest natural lake west of Mississippi. Jock claims to be the only one among us that has a golf cart with snow chains.

–Dick Carr, 3612 San Sebastian Court, Punta Gorda, FL 33950; H: (941) 637-8272; Cell: (941) 268-4245; dickc@embarqmail.com; FB: USAFA Class of 1959.

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In October, Bob Fischer and Lutzi joined Viking River Cruise’s “Grand European Tour,” which starts in Amsterdam and ends in Budapest. They traversed cities with truly historic significance, such as Amsterdam, Cologne, Wurzburg, Nuremberg, Passau and Vienna. The highlight of their trip was the four days on their own in Budapest, exploring it thoroughly on foot. Bob tells us that “Lutzi was our personal tour guide. There were many memories, Lutzi having escaped the 1956 Hungarian Revolution there at the age of 17. She came to the USA as a refugee and gained a scholarship to the University of Colorado. She graduated in three years and the rest is history – our history.”

George Collier George Collier is “still serving” while in retirement in Chesterfield, MO. He has been the ROTC liaison officer for his MOAA chapter, a USO volunteer, and is active in his church. Some of George’s time is spent on his hobby of Members building miniature military 89% models. George has an impressive collection of more than 100 models, which are unique in that they focus on particular episodes in aviation history, such as the war in Europe, flying the Hump, and the Berlin Sabre Society Donors Airlift -- including the associated ground-based military 11 equipment.

Jock Schwank and Hope are now happily ensconced in Polson, MT, 3800’

Mary Lou and Fred Porter Between them, Fred Porter and Ron Deep have approximately 70 years combined experience as research scientists and instructors in collegelevel STEM disciplines. Fred is currently teaching programming at Colorado Technical University in Colorado Springs and has also taught at Colorado College and served on USAFA’s faculty both in and out of uniform. Courses taught included EE, math differentials, and flight mechanics, which he also taught at Edwards. When asked about his observations of the Academy’s men and women during his tenure, Fred says that “they both had about the same percentage of dumb and smart cadets, but the women in my classes tended to do better because they were more organized and focused... and had the self-confidence to excel.”

Ron Deep claims to be leading a sedentary life as a professor emeritus at the University of Dayton in the School of Engineering in the Department of Engineering Management and Management Science. He wrote a text titled Probability and Statistics with Integrated Software Routines and coded the routines. Artificial intelligence is another of his study areas and he still dabbles in it. For the last 10 years, he has enjoyed creating a monthly puzzle column for his local Mensa organization. At our request, Ron has shared one of his columns with us. The 10 puzzles and their solutions are posted on the class webite.

Here is one of the math challenges: “$10,275 was collected from between 120 and 200 attendees who paid exactly the same price. How much did each pay and how many attended?” Good luck and let us know how you fared.

Left: John at Jurassic Lake. Right: John, Ron Yates and George Pupich in North Dakota (2013).

John McCullough, our world-renowned fisherman, has recently returned from a fishing expedition to Argentina’s Jurassic Lake, home of the world’s largest rainbow trout. John is the quintessential outdoorsman and guide, having operated his own hunting and fishing outfit in Kodiak, Alaska, for more than 20 years. John has hunted

and fished around the globe and he and his wife, Deanne, also maintain a farm in North Dakota where several of our classmates have visited to test their hunting skills. John’s next big expedition will be to South Africa’s Lake Jozini to fish for the piranha-like Tiger Fish, which has teeth like a shark and can weigh up to 150 lbs.

Since retirement, Gordon Savage has produced two books Peacemaker and Teleportal which he calls “science fiction with a twist.” He is currently working on a sequel to Teleportal, and putting the material together to generate a blog on a regular basis.

JT Smith reports that Jerry Farquhar has been weathering some rough times of late starting with the loss of his beloved Dotty. What you may not know is that we came very close to losing him as well. He had an almost-fatal heart problem that landed him on the operating table for multiple bypasses, a valve replacement, and the installation of a pacemaker. By all rights he should have died, but an exceptionally talented surgeon pulled him out of a death spiral and back to wings level. Jerry says that he is feeling better and stronger each day and that he hopes to get his FAA Medical Class III reinstated so that he can get back to flying his Piper Aztec.

Jack Brush is now the NAA USA record holder for Piston Class C1d, 2000 km closed course, with a speed of 251 knots (289 mph). Previous record was 237 knots set in 1975.

Dick Schehr recently got back in the grant writing business for the Monument area non-profit senior center, Silver Alliance. There are more than 700 seniors to service in the area. The center operates on less than $100,000 per year, so grant needs are small.

Do they have a special room for aging Zoomies?

Evelyn and George Elsea sold their house in Dingwall, Scotland, in summer 2016, after owning it for 19 years. Check our website for “the rest of the story” and other tidbits, including “NOTAMS” which contains supplementary class news items.

As the chair of the Colorado Springs Airport Advisory Commission, Andi Biancur has taken the lead in a proactive attempt to avoid life-taking mid-air Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) incidents within the local air space. Since regulation is totally within the purview of the FAA, Andi’s task has been to bring a UAS-knowledgeable group to consensus as to the most effective method of educating the largest number of UAS hobbyists in safe operations, without interfering with state and federal regulating authority... and then, getting the city and county governments on board to bring that plan into action.

Les Hobgood and daughter Rani participated in the Big Bend Open Road Race. Les learned again that their Corvette’s driver’s window starts to separate from the car at speeds in excess of 150 mph.

After a “blue tape” repair, Les went on to flub a speed requirement and the team was disqualified.

They will try again next year.

Ed Hearter reminds us that this past December, 50 years ago, Sam Waters and Mike Hyde gave their lives in combat in Vietnam. Sam was flying an F-105 and was hit by an SA-2 missile. No beeper or voice, but his undamaged ID card was photographed by an East German at some point Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS -- perhaps indicating he’d gotten out of the aircraft.

Mike Hyde was flying an F-100 out of Bien Hoa and crashed during a CAS napalm attack.

Since January 2016, our tally remains: 227 graduated, 68 deceased, 159 ready to answer roll call.

–Ken Alnwick, 2403 Arrow Park Drive, Alexandria, VA 22306; (703) 768-8280; kjalnwick@cox.net; Class Website : www.usafaclasses.org/1960/afa60.html Our group was diminished by the loss of two members in December: Phil Lane on the 15th and Donna Dean, Paul’s wife, on the16th.

They are missed.

Phil graduated in the very top tier of our class and played football all four years, which included contributing to our undefeated 1958 season, capped by playing in the Cotton Bowl.

He was both mentally and physically talented, and respected by all. Phil attended pilot training, flew for several years, left active duty, and attended law school in 1965. He was appointed the full-time federal magistrate judge in the Abilene and San Angelo divisions in 2003 and served for many years. Randy Cubero represented our class at his funeral on 19 December in San Angelo. Football teammate (and competitor Members for playing time with Phil at 89% halfback) George Pupich (’60) also attended. Phil’s wife, Nancy, their three children (Brian, David and Erin Lane), two grandchildren, and his two sisters survive. Phil’s biography appears in the “Gone But Not Sabre Society Forgotten” section.

Donors Donna attended Colorado 11 State College and met Paul at the Air Force Academy, where they married in 1961. Paul and their four sons (Bill, David, Michael and Jeff) and their families survive.

She loved spending time with her eight grandchildren and friends, playing tennis, and going to the movies. Donna was incredibly empathetic and understanding; a friend to all. She survived breast cancer for 18 years. Donna’s memorial service was at Plymouth Park United Methodist Church— where she had been a member for 49 years—in Irving, Texas, on January 7. Richard (Dick) Fairlamb represented our class at her memorial service and emailed many of Paul’s friends afterwards. Paul thanks him and the class for the donations to their church, made in Donna’s name.

We were all quite pleased to see the AOG select another member of our class, Lee Butler, as a Distinguished Graduate. Lee said that he has spent a lot of time thinking about his classmates, especially those who sent words of congratulations following the announcement that he has been selected as a Distinguished Graduate. He and Dorene are humbled and very appreciative of this honor.

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Ginger and Mark Anderson are taking their daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter on a National Geographic cruise in Alaska this summer, which should be fun, and gets them out of the Texas summer heat for a while.

Pat and Marilyn Buckley joined other not-sowell-behaved members of the 61 TFS (mythical) at West Point on 4, 5 and 6 November to cheer the Air Force on to victory and consume a bit of Brice Jones’-supplied Pinot Noir. Pat brought his 12-year-old grandson, Lyle, who adjudged the weekend to be “AWESOME.” Lyle fit in well and

by Saturday night was trading witty remarks with mature members of the 61TFS and was being variously recruited to join the Air Force, the Army, and the Navy. For Christmas and New Year, Pat and Marilyn visited Venice, FL, to enjoy the holidays with Pat’s brother Mike (USMA ’64). Various parties and visits to the beach. A good time had by all.

Bill and Linda Griffis moved last year to a townhouse just a few miles from their previous residence in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. They spent Christmas in California visiting children (2) and grandchildren (7). They just about froze to death in 40-degree temperatures. Their oldest son (Lt. Col.) John is attending Army War College (electronically) and is enjoying his 3-year-old daughter, Ruby Marguerite. That may be their last long-distance travel since they are getting a tad old and creaky for such endeavors.

Lowell Jones said that Sandy is now in their nursing facility at Falcons Landing retirement center in Northern Virginia. She may be there permanently, because her dementia has progressed aggressively in the last several weeks. They are in the right place for great care, but they need a miracle now.

Jerry Mason, Paul O’Connor and Jim Wilhelm braved the 65-degree weather and cheered USAFA’s triumph at the Arizona Bowl game in Tucson. Along with about 100 other revelers, Jerry also attended the pregame tailgate, where he was able to chat one-on-one with the Superintendent, the Commandant, and the Athletic Director—all of whom benefited mightily from his imparted wisdom (or so he claims). For what it’s worth, he was recognized as the oldest grad present. Graytag Geezers Paul and Jim also sang at the traditional Christmas musicale hosted by Jerry and wife Jo (Sucherman). Other featured artists were the jazz trio of Jo’s sons Paul, Joel and Todd, together again for the first time in 13 years. Todd’s wife, Taylor Mills, for many years a member of Brian Wilson’s band, also sang.

Hector and Joan Negroni will be in their Florida residence until May. Once again, some members of the Class of 1961 DC Bunch met at the Springfield Country Club, Springfield, VA, for another memorable lunch on 15 November. Special thanks to Charley Dixon for arranging to use the facilities. Bill and Theda Foster briefed on the activities of the 55th reunion while Jack and Diane McDonough briefed on their “new retirement community life” where they are known as “the kids.” The group cov-

ered the recent national election, discussed world events, exchanged stories of their diverse activities and had one heck of a good time enjoying each other’s company. Others attending were Joan and John Kohout, Liz Power, Charley Dixon, Rhoda and Bill Stackhouse, Joan and Hector Negroni, John Sullivan, and Twy Williams.

Ad Thompson said that in May he, Wayne Jones, and Bob Kellock had a “serial mini-reunion” as they all attended the memorial for Bob Hoover held at Clay Lacy’s hangar at Van Nuys Airport. More than 1,500 people attended from around the world.

Soon after Ad arrived, he ran into Wayne so they had a mini-reunion before and after the ceremony.

After the fly-by honoring Bob Hoover, which included jets from the Thunderbirds and the Snowbirds (Bob was an honorary member of both) along with many others, Wayne and Ad said their goodbyes, and Ad stopped at one of the 20 port-a-pottys before the drive home. As he was exiting the facility, there stood Bob Kellock trying to enter the one Ad was leaving!

What are the chances of that? Neither Wayne nor Ad had seen Bob in the crowd before then. So Bob and Ad had a mini-reunion. Ad also included two pictures from our history. In early 1958, 6th Squadron decided to “enhance” their portion of the Cadet Area. So they borrowed the X-4 from Arnold Hall one night. The Security Police patrol spotted them and called for reinforcements. But as Ad recalls, they were able to catch only John MacArtney (’60) because he had a cast on his foot. They had to put the X-4 back the next morning, as the picture shows.

It was a busy holiday season for Nancy and Twy Williams. They joined their youngest son, Robert, his wife, Holly, and their four children for Christmas and enjoyed all the excitement of the oldest’s 8th birthday on Dec 24th and the gift exchanges on Christmas Day. Telephone calls had to suffice for celebrations with other children, grand and great grandchildren. They returned home and prepared to babysit the four grandchildren while the fifth was brought into this world. That meant that they remained packed for a quick five-hour trip to Blue Ridge, VA, when Holly determined the time was near—or at hand. They traveled on January 10th and Allison Suzanne Williams was born on the 11th.

Holly and Robert brought her home on the 13th to the delight of her four siblings and grandparents. Twy and Nancy returned home on the 15th to a house that seemed oh, so quiet and reflected on their amazing experience. Life is good.

Tom and Judy Wilson are enjoying their winter in Stillwater, MN. They just experienced their fifth, no sixth, no seventh snow, so far. But then Tom looks out the kitchen window, and it’s simply beautiful. Tom recently finished reading Lee Butler’s

memoirs. He found himself living Lee’s adventures with him. Tom loved Lee’s straight-forward approach to each assignment and challenge. He loved his humor, especially when it involved our classmates or others that Tom has met or known.

If you have not read the two volumes, please reconsider. You will not be disappointed.

Teri and Nelson O’Rear continue to enjoy northern Indiana. Their daughter’s family joined them from Grosse Pointe Farms, MI, for Christmas, and their local son’s family hosted everyone for Christmas dinner. Tom and Liz Hill live in their local area. During one of their recent periodic talks, Tom was quite pleased with Clemson’s football victory over Alabama to sit atop the final team ratings.

Thanks to all who shared with the rest of us this quarter.

–Earl N. “Nelson” O’Rear, 50582 Stonington Drive, Granger, IN 46530-8243; (574) 273-2597; Email: enoandtjo@gmail.com

“I’m still working on second book, Cold Warriors: Pillar of Fire, hopefully due this fall. Very sorry to hear about your back situation and hope you are making a fast recovery. Our best to Caroline. We remember fondly our visit to you in 2010. Blessings, Bo.” Thanks for the update, Bo. See you at the 55th.

And this from Harry Paddon: “Pat and I went to Hill AFB for a reunion of my Vietnam F-105 squadron, 34th Tac Fighter Squadron, which was stationed at Korat RTAB. The 34th is now at Hill AFB and was the first unit to get the F-35. The new 34th gave the old 34th a close-up look and inspection of the aircraft. Great airplane. Then Pat and I spent a week going through Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks and a couple of days in Las Vegas after the reunion.” Thanks for the email Harry, and for the picture of you pointing to your name on a list of pilots on a blackboard in the squadron. It had a month in 1968. That was the 100-mission date; the magic date for the pilots to rotate back to the States or elsewhere.

1962

Hi Redtags. Well I’m home recuperating from back surgery.

The doctor pinned the L-4 and L-5 vertebrae together so that I will be able to stand erect again.

Been home four days now. Had a good surgeon; no complications and no pain so far.

Got this from Lew Svitenko in October: “Hope it was a beautiful birthday Jack.

Hope you enjoyed it to the fullest. They are more precious each year as we get longer in the tooth!” I can attest to that, Lew. Thanks for the email.

Info on our elected Class officers: “On Nov. 17, 2016, at 12:37 PM, MJ Kellenbence, Class of ’80, wrote: Class President: Col. (Ret) Richard L Klass Class Vice President: Maj. Gen. (Ret) Donald W Shepperd Class Secretary: VACANT Class Treasurer: Mr. Jerry L. Smith Class Historian: VACANT Class Scribe: Lt. Col. (Ret) John W Jamba Class Advisory Senate: Maj. Gen. (Ret) George W. Larson Thanks everyone for the updates. If changes occur or if you add a secretary and historian let me know.”

Thanks for the updates. Any RTB interested in filling a vacancy should submit their name to Dick Klass.

Received an email from “B0” Ohman: “Greetings from South Texas. We are now down here in San Antonio at Blue Skies of Texas West (formerly Air Force Village II) with Nan Smith (Kinney, ’62) and Don and Ginny Hallager. Great place with very friendly folks. Much history of the Air Force (and other services, too) here. Invitation to all RedTags to come for a visit. Update on family: Nannette (‘01), with husband, LtCol Ryan Menath, son-in-law, ’01, is in Grand Forks, ND. Ryan is getting a doctorate in history at University of North Dakota heading back to USAFA History Department in the summer of 2018. First granddaughter, Felicity, USAFA, 2028, joined her brothers Ryker and Brecken, last February. Son Nick is a sheepherder, and multi-business owner in San Angelo, TX.

Harry told me he had just talked to Russ Goodenough about a book that Russ was currently writing. I hadn’t heard from Russ in years so I called him and got an update. Russ is happily retired and is writing a book about the Vietnam War. It is over 300 pages right now so Russ had Bob Davey edit the book. I told him that I heard that he had ejected from an F-4 over Ocala, FL in 1964. In 1965, the Air Force found a malfunction in the F-4 design that affected the plane during dogfights/ Members scissors maneuvers. The plane 79% would nosedive to the right and enter a spiral/spin. That’s what happened with Russ’ plane; so he ejected near Ocala over a forested area.

He finished his upgrade and subsequently rotated with Sabre Society Donors his squadron to Vietnam. On one of his missions, his plane 12 was hit and he was forced to bail out over Laos. He was rescued and returned to his unit. I’d say that he received some intense, unwanted experience in ejections from a jet fighter.

He’s doing fine right now, though.

Now for the 55th reunion update. I just talked to Jim Mack about the Colorado Contingent’s plans for the 55th reunion. They plan to have the reunion

on the weekend of the Navy game in October.

They plan for minimum walking/travel. First, on Thursday they will plan a golf outing for the brave and hearty golfers in our class. Then on Friday they will arrange a visit to the new CCLD building or whatever you want to visit. Then on Saturday, we go to the stadium and watch the game in the press box on big TVs. It will be a game versus the Naval Academy at Navy, No shivering in the Academy’s cold wind. We’ll be inside. Then we have dinner at the hotel. This is a preliminary program. If you have a suggestion, let them know when you get their contact letter/email.

Got an email from Jerry Singleton with more information about his trip to Joe Guilmartin’s “Festschrift” which took place at Ohio State University in September. “A Festschrift is a German term indicating a collection of writings to honor an eminent scholar. There were three non-academic presentations on the second day. Gen. Ron Fogelman (USAF Chief of Staff, retired, Class of ’63, who was a cadet taking military history at the Academy when Joe was teaching there) and Gen. Al Gray, (USMC commandant, retired, who was in charge of the evacuation of Saigon in which Joe participated in April 1975) were both unable to attend in person but each sent 15-minute videos of remembrances about Joe. Joe made some powerful friends in his career. I was the third non-academic presentation and was allowed 10 minutes to speak about the military side of our friend and brotherin-arms. Guilmartin and I were classmates at the US Air Force Academy, in helicopter training and overlapped briefly in late 1965. I recounted some memories of those times, related a story from Joe about firing the last shots of the Vietnam War on his last mission out of Saigon, and a couple of classic Guilmartin witticisms.”

Lastly, I want to thank the Redtags for your kind emails and messages about my stay in the hospital and rehab center. I was in the hospital for two days for surgery on my lumbar vertebrae. It went extremely well. No post-op pain. Can you believe that? Then two weeks in a rehab center for therapy.

I’ve been home for five days and am still progressing very well. Looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible during this coming year. Sincerely, Jack Jamba. Go Redtags!

–John W. “Jack” Jamba, 4 Judy Court, Satellite Beach, FL 32937; Home: (321) 777-5520; Office: (321) 861-6279; Cell: (321) 432-1370; Email: jwjamba@aol.com

1963

2017! Can you believe it? To start, Gil Merkle sent the following from Linda, Cy Rickards wife: “In November, Cy and I traveled to Georgia, where Cy was able to get together with Gary Saban, Doug Hardgrave and Jeff Heal.” The happy group is pictured on the next page.. “In August, Bud Gilligan and his wife, Joyce, and Doug Hardgrave and his wife, Jan, came out to California, where we all met up at Les and Judy Denend’s home in St. Helena.

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS

Pictured below are Bud, Doug and Les, who was giving them a tour of the yard.”

Art Johnson wrote he had just returned from a strenuous but fantastic 13-day REI hiking trip to the southern Patagonian region of South America! “I felt I needed to do something outdoors to celebrate my 75th year and this hiking trip was my choice. Having been in the area last year, I eagerly looked forward to hiking in Argentina’s Los Glaciers National Park and Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park. The weather was generally very good and helped make the trip a huge success; we didn’t experience the very high winds and snow that are an ever-present danger to hiking in southern Patagonia. During nine-day hikes, we trekked about 100 miles with vertical gains of over 20,000 feet. Although the 69-year-old MIT professor and I couldn’t always keep up with the three younger members of our group, we were slow but steady and didn’t meaningfully hold up the rest of our great group. I am now in the process of obtaining visas for my upcoming trip to Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and parts of old South Vietnam in January and February. Once the trip is over, I will have visited 83 countries (well on my way to my goal of visiting at least 100 countries).”

Fabulous Picture! Art in Patagonia.

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Received an email from John Borling about standing up the new SOS America (Service over Self) website. This is what he said. “With pleasure and anticipation, the leadership at SOS America announces the official launch of the new SOS America website.”

JB added that Service Over Self is a patriotic, not-forprofit organization advocating a one-year national service program aimed at American renewal. For more information, you can go to their Facebook page or website www.sosamerica.org.

Recently the AOG updated its list of our class officers.

Class President: Col. (Ret) James H. Diffendorfer. jimdiff@comcast.net Class Vice President: Mr. F. Denis King. denny63@sbcglobal.net Class Secretary: Col. (Ret) Preston H. Davis, Sr. chdphd@earthlink.net Class Treasurer: Col. (Ret) Marvin L. Odefey. modefey@msn.com Class Historian: CPT (USN Ret) L.S. ‘Lou’ Matjasko. lsmatjasko@msn.com Class Scribe: Col. (Ret) Norman I. ‘Skip’ Lee III. 54wrs63@gmail.com Class Advisory Senate: Maj. Gen. (Ret) John L. Borling. jibviking@yahoo.com Class Web Master: Lt. Col. (Ret) G.R. ‘Gil’ Merkle. merkleg@texas.net And now a change in course. Classmates (Hank Hoffman, Bill Mitchell, Tom Fryer) and other curious Daedalian friends alerted me to an article in an online site called “OpsLens” titled “The United States Air Force Academy Doesn’t Train Warriors Anymore.”

The author is a USAFA 1986 graduate who spent eight years in the Air Force as a Special Operations/Combat Rescue helicopter pilot flying HH-3 and HH-53 helicopters. In my judgement, a group of true warriors. You can find the article

by Googling “OpsLens Jan 2017 Warrior Training at the Air Force Members Academy.” The article grabs your 83% attention but more importantly I would like your comments.

Maybe begin a dialogue.

I was initially surprised and a little troubled with the author’s observations and Sabre Society conclusions about the current Donors condition of cadet training. At 22 one point he referred to the Academy as UCLA in uniforms.

It is important to note the author was making his first trip back to the Academy after 30 years to attend his class reunion. He gets to the heart of the matter when he writes about his experiences as a cadet: “In fact, the discipline that was drilled into me has served me well my entire life, giving me a leg up on my competition: once I start something, I just don’t quit, no matter the odds or barriers put in front of me. I credit USAFA for helping me to develop this ability.” He goes on though by saying when approaching the Bottom of the Ramp he commented on what he saw in place of the “Bring Me Men” quote: “Imagine my shock,” he writes, “when I saw the quote had been changed to some

PC gibberish about ‘Integrity First. Service Before Self. Excellence in All We Do.” And, he concludes the article with the following observation: “It is obvious the Air Force Academy is no longer training warriors to lead men, or women, into battle. They are no longer into the type of training that created the greatest Air Force ever known to man.” In contrast, my personal interaction with cadets beginning in 1969 when I joined the History Department (DFH) and quite regularly up to this day including graduates serving with me or under my command has not led me to any such conclusions.

The Academy Mission Statement found and memorized in our Contrails issued to us in June 1959 is essentially the same today. Undoubtedly many of us would like to think we left the Academy after four years with a warrior’s mindset but fundamentally, the Academy’s mission is to create leaders for the Air Force. We were given a baseline from which we were able to further develop leadership skills through experience. In a way, we first learned to be wingmen, then we became leaders. Many, not all, became warriors.

The world has changed dramatically over the past 50 years and will continue to change at a rapid rate–some say at an accelerated pace. Just look back to 1986 and reflect on what has happened to our daily lives since then. Cadets today are, literally and figuratively, our generation’s grandchildren.

They have grown up with a life experience and a world view vastly different than that of ours and even different than that of their parents. Without going into details, it is both obvious and important to note that the Air Force Academy is not the same as it was in 1963 or for that matter 1986 but its mission remains essentially the same: to create leaders.

Not only has the physical plant changed, there has been dramatic growth and/or adjustments to the military, academic, athletic and airmanship programs and now the introduction of the Center for Character and Leadership Development, which will be indispensable for this ever-changing environment. Who knows but it may someday be known as Star Fleet Academy. Imagine what a member of the Class of 2017 will experience during a 20- to 30-year career. Is it possible that if we fail to anticipate the future we will not be able to benefit from it?

That’s it for this time around. I hope you found the discussion interesting. Let me know and please, take care and stay warm.

– Norman I. “Skip” Lee, 63119 E Cat Claw Lane, Tucson, AZ 85739-2058; Home: (520) 825-7980; Cell: (520) 241-3498; 54wrs63@gmail.com; Class Web Site: www.usafa63.org

1964

Stories of Long Ago and Far Away: The inauguration and the parade for it brought back memories of one snowy day back when we were but lowly Doolies. Several classmates joined in a short email round-table – all remembering very cold weather, frozen hands and the Navy guys’ overshoes all over the place during the parade. But, all of that

can wait for the next reunion.

Mini-Reunion vs. Hurricane: Denny Montgomery reported that 11th Squadron had a minireunion planned in Hilton Head courtesy of Don and Ree Heide. Unfortunately, Hurricane Matthew came along and ended the plans. They’ll try again next year, hopefully without the hurricane.

Denny also noted that he and Mary Jo went to Tucson for the reunion of the 38th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron. They toured the Pima County Air Museum, where four ’64 classmates who were assigned to the 38th at some point in their careers posed with an F-4E that had Al McCartor’s name on the canopy rail!

Denny Montgomery, Dick Slye, Bob Dempsey and Hal Watson with Al McArtor’s F-4E. Speaking of Al: In November, Al [McArtor] was awarded the Williams Trophy at the annual meeting of the Washington Airports Task Force. The award is “to recognize those whose leadership, vision and dedication in the application of aviation or space has enriched the quality Members of life on earth.” The citation 80% read, “Allan McArtor’s career has been defined by the ideal of service and the belief that aviation has the power to transform lives. Through many roles – combat aviator, FedEx Sabre Society executive, FAA administrator, Donors airline founder, leader at Airbus 40 – his dedication to his industry and the people it serves has never wavered.” And, of course, as a member of ’64, he’s an all-round good guy!

Gracie and Al McArtor (middle) at the Williams Trophy Award Ceremony.

Football Time: With the Falcons invading

Tucson for the bowl game against South Alabama, John and Sally Hoffman came down from their mountain home to participate. They ran into our daughter’s family at the game and sent in this picture. It looks a lot warmer than it was in Colorado Springs the week before when Sandy and I visited the Academy for a Christmas family get-together.

Brig. Gen. Andy Armacost, Ava (21), Kathy, Audrey (18) and Sally/John Hoffman watch the Falcons beat South Alabama.

Old Trolls: The Old Trolls continue to meet almost every month for lunch somewhere in the area between Colorado Springs and Denver. Doug Jenkins coordinates the lunches as well as being our class secretary and Class Advisory Senate representative. If you’re planning to be in the area, contact him for particulars on that month’s lunch.

–Bob Hovde, 206 Walker Ave., Huntsville, AL 35801; Home: (256) 532-3923; Mobile: (256) 3489794; bob@hovde.us

Barry Blackman, Tony Mras, Glenn Nordin, Steve Icardi, Jack Ferguson, and Davy Bass.

Joe Kolek recently met with Al Sweeny at the Greene County Airport near Xenia, Ohio. Al and his wife, Beverly, flew up from Louisville, KY in a sleek Cozy MK IV that they had built over a period of seven years. They enjoy flying at every opportunity and have been as far west as Seattle and as far east as Bermuda. I was thoroughly impressed by Al’s outstanding workmanship and attention to detail and didn’t hesitate to accept his offer of a ride.

Having flown in nothing smaller than an airliner for the past 35 years, I found the experience to be exhilarating. The Cozy MK IV is very maneuverable and unexpectedly fast. After the flight, we had lunch at a local restaurant and reminisced about pilot training days at Craig AFB. Returning to the airport, I watched as they taxied out and took off for their flight back home.

1965

Five hardy souls from “Tranquil Twelve” met for a mini-reunion in San Antonio Oct. 6-9. There were supposed to be six, but Ed Soistman decided to ride out Hurricane Matthew in Orlando rather than join Barry Blackman, Tony Mras, Steve Icardi, Jack Ferguson, Davy Bass and our wives plus Bill Powers’ partner, Carmel Connolly, for a get-together to discuss a 2017 cruise and generally have as much fun as possible.

While there we joined our first class-year AOC Glenn Nordin and his wife, Mary, for a tour of the Army Residence Community (very impressive) and an Members afternoon and evening of war 76% stories, reminiscences, and good food. Glenn was Lance Sijan’s flight commander at Da Nang and participated in the attempt to rescue Lance. Glenn had some fascinating stories and is mentioned in Malcolm Sabre Society McConnell’s acknowledgement Donors to his book “Into the Mouth of 29 the Cat”. We spent most of one day riding the river taxi and seeing the sights of the Riverwalk and surrounding area. At great time was had by all, we ate too much, and we’re going on a cruise in October 2017.

Joe and Al “slipping the surly bonds”. Al in the left seat.

Of the 20 “Tiger Ten” classmates that attended last year’s Class of ’65 50-year reunion in Colorado Springs, 10 squadron mates (plus Bill Cole, CS-21, who likes to party with CS-10) and their spouses got together Oct. 21-23, 2016, in Fort Worth, TX. Out-of-towners stayed at the Hilton Hotel, a historic building where President John Kennedy spent the night before heading to Dallas on Nov. 22, 1963.

Many thanks to Dave Cooper who put together a top-notch mini-reunion agenda that included a gourmet dinner at the Petroleum Club in a private room on the 40th floor with a spectacular view of downtown Fort Worth (table center pieces courtesy of President George W. and Laura Bush); a private tour of the mile-long Lockheed Martin production facility pumping out F-35A/B/Cs; time on our own to see local sights like the George W. Bush Presidential Library in Dallas; a wonderful Sunday brunch with Bloody Marys and Mimosas at Mike and Beth Aarni’s beautiful home in Aledo, TX; and a farewell dinner at Los Vaqueros Mexican restaurant at the Fort Worth Stockyards. We, of course, traded Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS

Bill Cole, Vince Bristow, Chuck Coleman, Randy Martin, Mike Aarni, Dave Cooper, Tom Plank, Garey Matsuyama, Pat Moore, and Phil Parker at the Fort Worth Petroleum Club. (Bill Nielsen not available for photo.) stories from the past and agreed to get together at least once more before the 55th.

Charlie (CS1) and Rita Marks send their greetings from the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, NC. “After nearly 50 years in the sky (F4, BAC 1-11, L-1011, BAE-146, B-737, then Falcons and Gulfstreams), I’m done! Our Asheville Unitarian Congregation keeps us focused on what’s important and the wonderful Asheville Symphony keeps us warm and happy all winter. Rita’s embarked on an MFA in fiction at nearby Warren Wilson College and I play golf. Call us if you’re passing through.”

Jack Murphy, like most of us, is living a happy retired life, doing a little of this and a little of that when so inclined. “My wife, Terry, and I spent Thanksgiving with our daughter and her family in Parker, CO, which is a few miles south of Denver. One day we drove down to the Academy on CO Hwy 83, a two-lane road east of I-25 (the old 85/87?) that runs through rural countryside looking like the Colorado we remember from 50 years ago.

Civilization starts again at North Gate Boulevard which, of course, leads to USAFA. It was a beautiful day and we had a clear view of Pike’s Peak for about 20 minutes on the way down. Awesome, we just don’t have views like that here in Virginia.”

Denny Murphy wants us all to know that the site preparation at the Milwaukee International Airport for the Lance Sijan Memorial is complete.

We are targeting spring 2017 for the re-dedication of Lance’s F-4C Phantom. We’re planning quite the Team Sijan celebration and expect a growing list of dignitaries to attend. Of course, all of our contributors are invited. And don’t worry, we’ll provide plenty of advance notice of the dedication date.

Chuck Cole says this past weekend the local paper, Tampa Bay Times, had an article about a rivalry taking place in South Tampa between two store owners who, over the years, have placed “Go Army - Sink Navy” and “Go Navy - Beat Army” large banners on their store fronts across the street (Dale Mabry Highway, a main north/south thoroughfare) from one another. In the article, it was explained how the Army/Navy game, played the second Saturday in December each year and deeply rooted in tradition, is “America’s Game” and how the rivalry 112 · usafa.org

has existed for so many years, how many games each academy has won, etc., etc. Nowhere in the article was the “other” major service academy mentioned. MacDill AFB is located a mere three miles south of the two stores at the end of the same street. So, I couldn’t resist and sent in a letter which, to my great surprise, was published in the Monday morning issue of the paper.

As some of you may know, Bob Penry confirmed some years ago that he was adopted as an infant.

Recently he was able to identify his biological parents, who are both deceased. Bob now has three new siblings and a first cousin. What’s so surprising is that our CS-7 AOC in 1965, Col. Charles Koeninger, turns out to have been Bob’s paternal uncle. Small world, indeed!

I have a lot more to report but we’re out of space for this issue. Who knew you guys had so much to say?

–Bill Roberts, 9870 E. Golden Currant Drive, Tucson, AZ 85748-7897; (520) 342-8002; scribe@ usafa1965.org; https://usafa-1965.org; https:// www.facebook.com/groups/usafa1965 Greetings Redtags! There was so much to report on from our 50th Reunion in our last newsletter that I still have some class news to catch up on. First, there were a couple of folks who were misidentified in two pictures in the last article. In the photo of our cheerleaders, Rick Cree was identified as Rick “Lee”. I’ll blame that on auto-correct, but the next one was completely my fault. The picture of the young couple with shirts that said “Together Since 1966” was incorrectly identified as Terry and Denise Schmidt, when it was really Walt and Mary Schrecker. The picture was taken at the tailgate party, but when I tried to take a picture, drink a beer, and take notes at the same time, I was short one hand—it’s pretty obvious where my priorities were. Next time, I’ll have someone else take the picture.

An inspiring event that happened just before our reunion was the installation of a C-130 plaque in the SEA Memorial near Doolittle Hall. The plaque

1966

commemorates the C-130 tactical airlift mission in SEA and the 134 crewmembers, including five USAFA grads, who gave their lives flying those missions. It lists the names of those five USAFA grads, which includes our classmate, Gary Brunner, who was shot down during an approach to Katum in Vietnam on 23 June 1969. Dave Fales was one of the leaders who got the plaque designed, built, and funded by donations from our classmates (and many others). The installation ceremony was the week before our reunion, so most of us old ’66 Herk drivers couldn’t make two trips to USAFA in one month. However, several classmates did gather at the plaque, between events during our reunion. In addition to marveling at how everyone still looked the same, they posed for the picture below that proved it (sort of).

Old Herk drivers at the new C-130 plaque.

Kneeling, from left are Bill Wacker, Phil Dibb, Mo Tanner, Jim Roberts, and Dave Fales. Standing: Bill Hudspeth, Barbara Brunner Velotas, Jim Boney, Mike Powell, Steve Swartz, and Rick Strong.

Speaking of old airplanes, the last flying F-4 was retired on Dec 21 at Holloman. Ed DiBello went to the ceremony and thought that, since so many of our classmates flew and supported the F-4, he should let us know about the ceremony.

Ed said that about 500 people attended and one of the guest speakers even commented Members that it was amazing that this 82% many people “came to a relatively hard-to-get-to place (Holloman AFB), three days before Christmas to honor this aircraft.” Because of the F-4’s popularity, the aircraft flew at Sabre Society several airshows during its last Donors operational year and the fans 25 crowded around the aircraft and treated its crew like “rock stars”. When the F-4 squadron commander asked an Army Vietnam vet in the audience why he liked the F-4 so much, he said “that airplane saved my life in ’Nam.” There is another old F-4 on display in the Cadet Area that attracted a few of our classmates during the reunion. This aircraft is an F-4D, #66-7463, and is the only aircraft credited with six MiG kills since the Korean War. Capt. Steve Ritchie (’64), made his first and fifth kills in this aircraft. It was presented to the Academy in 1986 and is now on display on the southeast corner of the Terrazzo. Several of our classmates flew this specific F-4 in SEA or

elsewhere, and they gathered on the Terrazzo for a photo op and war stories during the reunion.

–Ryan Denny, 1635 Mary Todd Lane, O’Fallon, IL 62269; Home: (618) 624-4255; ryanden@aol.com

1967

Six famous aviators in front of a famous aircraft: Ron Blake, Paul Sheridan, Neil Crist, Wayne Skora, Vic Andrews, and Mike Kennedy.

Dennis Maier’s family has been well represented at USAFA over the last 50 years. His son, his brother, and his brother’s son—all grads—gathered at his home on Lake LBJ in Granite Shoals, TX for a “Maier USAFA Reunion.” You know that part of the discussion had to be how much tougher it was in ’66 than in ’77, or tougher in ’77 than in ’96, or tougher in ’96 than in ’10, etc.

The Maier USAFA Reunion: Brent Maier (’96), Dennis Maier (’66), Martin Maier (’77), and Kyle Maier (’10).

For those of you who can’t find that big red USAFA Polaris Yearbook from 1966, or don’t want to go downstairs to dig through it whenever you have a question about something that happened back then—or just want to see what a classmate looked like 50 years ago, there is now an electronic solution! A PDF version of our yearbook is now available on the AOG website. It’s a little complicated to find, so here’s some breadcrumbs to follow: Start with www.usafa.org, then look in the upper left corner for “Connect.” That will give you a drop-down menu and the top choice is “Connect with Grads.” When you click on that, it opens up a section called “AOG Resources for Finding USAFA Grads.” In that section, there is another drop-down menu called “View Class Sites.” When you select 1966 and go to that page, near the top it says “Yearbooks.” There are yearbooks for all four years that we were at USAFA (for most of us). They are pretty big PDF files, but they will take up a lot less space on your computer than they would on your desk. I put mine on my IPAD, along with a digital copy of the Register of Graduates, so they are both handy no matter where I am (and my electronic memory works much better than my fading actual memory).

That’s all we’ve got for now, so keep those emails, pictures, and stories coming. Until next time…

Happy landings!

Hola, amigos — I am composing and compiling this on Inauguration Day. As of a couple hours ago, it is the beginning of the Trump presidency. Wow. A bit more on than later.

Inputs first of all from Larry Thal: “In the late 1980s, Motorola launched a wild idea developed in one of its research labs by Dr. Ray Leopold – a satellite phone capable of reaching every inch of the planet. Iridium promised to be Motorola’s crowning achievement: with 66 satellites moving at 17,000 miles an hour in evenly-spaced orbital paths over the poles; a call could go from Tibet to the Amazon rainforest with no noticeable delay and without it ever touching a ground line. But Iridium proved to be a commercial disaster for Motorola. $11 billion in debt and burning through $100 million a month, Iridium declared bankruptcy and Motorola tried to destroy the satellite constellation to avoid future liability. One man, retired Pan Am Airways CEO Dan Colussy, decided to save Iridium.

Colussy’s tireless efforts had him piecing together funding from a motley group of international investors, conspiring with Iridium devotee Dorothy Robyn in the Clinton White House, making his case to the Pentagon and the FCC, and in the end saving the only phone that works at the ends of the earth.

Iridium phones have saved tens of thousands of lives and proved indispensable in war zones, disaster areas and other settings including scientific research in parts of the globe that are otherwise inaccessible.”

Ray Leopold as part of a panel discussing a new book by John Bloom, “Eccentric Orbits: The Iridium Story”. The photo was taken at the University of California, Berkeley, on Nov. 9, 2016, where Ray was honored. Also shown is his USAFA roommate, Larry Thal, also Class of ‘67, who recently retired as assistant dean of the Optometry School at Berkeley.

In the previous Checkpoints, I had some brief comments about a CS-07 trip. Pete Milne provided a bit more info: “This year’s 7th squadron’s minireunion was held on a Viking River Cruise going from Paris to the heart of Normandy. Our group enjoyed the company of George and Pat Frushour, Bill and Jeanni Gerber, Ven and Dianne Hammonds, Joe and Eldene Holbrook, John and Parke Hollstein, Bruce and Stormy McDonald, Pete and Debbie Milne, Rick and Carmen Rodriguez,

Jerry and Julie Wenner, Helen Rounce, and “an honorary 7th squadron” ’67 grad Paul and Beverly Schlichter. Paul and Beverly did a great job reserving our tables in the dining room. We toured the delightful sites of Paris before sailing down the Seine stopping to see Monet’s Members garden’s at Giverny, and tracing 73% the last footsteps of Jeanne D’Arc in Rouen. A highlight of the itinerary that emotionally touched us all, was visiting the beaches of Normandy and the American Military Cemetery.

After a last night in Paris, Sabre Society Donors toasting classmates that have departed, the group relived our 21 lasting memories built on true friendships and camaraderie and made plans for seeing each other again at the 50th reunion at the Academy in 2017.”

Most of the CS-07 tour group: In the back row are Bruce McDonald, Diane Hammonds, Ven Hammonds, Eldene Holbrook, Pat Frushour, Jerry Wenner, Pete Milne, and Debbie Milne, Front row: Stormy McDonald, George Frushour, Joe Holbrook, Helen Rounce, Julie Wenner, Rick Rodriguez, and Carmen Rodriguez. Missing from this picture were Bill and Jeanni Gerber. John and Parke Hollstein, and Beverly and Paul Schlichter who were at the Louvre.

Pat Dowling wrote that “…Fred Milanovich and John Fuller coordinated a get together for 14 former 13th guys, wives and several special guests. The weekend started Saturday night in Phoenix, with a BBQ hosted by Fred and Linda. Sunday it was to Sedona where we enjoyed hikes and scenery. The fourth day John arranged a luxury train trip to the Grand Canyon. Fred and John did a great job. Good prep for the 50th.” (See photo at the top of the next column.)

Some of you may have had contact with your squadron reps about our 50th reunion. In case there have been gaps, here is some info, mostly from Bob Muldrow and Roger Carleton: Reunion dates are 4 - 8 Oct 2017. It is the weekend of the Navy game, on Sat. 7 Oct; however, the football game is away and it is NOT part of our reunion activity. The decision to not include a football game Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS Get with your squadron reps about our 50th and the 50th Reunion Class Project.

God bless the troops, this administration, and the United States of America.

R POW Memorial Fund R Carillon Bells R Center for Character

& Development (CCLD)

R Legacy Fund Seated are Beau Crosby, Ron Morishige, Buz Carpenter, and Frank Blaha. Standing: Pat Dowling, Ross Leonard, Mark Stugart, Clint Price, John Fuller, Rick Schmitt, Fred Milanovich, Les Gabriel, Roger Wells, and Gary Mueller. was based on input to our ’67 Reunion Committee from a variety of sources including members of our class, a survey, and experience of classes of about our vintage who had recently had reunions. The determination was that while the football games are fun for most/some, the choreography of tickets, tailgating, parking, transport, weather, etc. plus the fact that some of our guys and/or spouses have mobility issues; rather than being the 12th men at the stadium, we will likely have opportunity for some to-be-determined big-screen venue; and/ or can use the time for continued camaraderie in more comfortable and hassle-free surroundings.

“Party central” will likely be the Antlers Plaza BUT, as I compose this, the contract has not yet been signed so until you hear from your squadron rep or some official channel — please do not contact the Antlers for rooms as you likely will not get the best rate. Our 50th Reunion Class Project is a series of upgrades to the USAFA Cemetery — the Carillon sound system, memorial building, others. The goal is about $142 K. Of note, our previous four class projects —CCLD room, Carillon purchase (45th reunion), Legacy Gift (2nd Lt bars for 2017) and POW Memorial Fund — are complete. Regarding cemetery upgrades: We currently have 39 classmates buried or memorialized at the USAFA Cemetery, and it is likely that more of us will go to rest there in years to come. From Roger C: “… my own view and that of the committee is if we can do the cemetery upgrades to go along with our 45th gift of the Carillon, then ’67 will have done a lot for ALL graduating classes.” While there were about as many USAFA experiences among members of our class as there were members, we share a bond, and our lives were shaped by those cadet years. Time to consider giving an amount you think is appropriate for this, our 50th reunion project. Check with your squadron rep and/or the AOG about how to give.

About the election: not so long ago, very few believed that Trump’s winning was in the realm of possibly. Then came the vote, and the states’ results, and the concessions speech, and the shock.

And now — this. By the time you read this, I hope that the President has already delivered on some of his promises. Obviously, not all are thrilled with this administration. It is likely to be “interesting” — as in the Chinese curse.

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c Cemetery Upgrades

The Class of ’67 adopted five projects and have reached four out of their five project goals! Accept the challenge to help ’67 reach their last goal in upgrading the USAFA cemetery. The class is encouraging full class participation to reach their $143K goal by April 2017. Please consider giving a gift to support ’67’s class giving efforts to provide improvements and upgrades to our USAFA cemetery for all graduates and their loved ones. Please give at usafa.org/Give/67cu.

–Larry Wilson, 13100 Pinehurst Ave. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111; Home: (505) 291-8949; Lwilsn628@aol.com

1968

HELLO ’68! Thanks for all the cards, family newsletters, emails, and photos that you sent during the holiday season. Best wishes to you and yours for a bright, prosperous, and healthy 2017!

SECOND ’68ER NAMED AS USAFA DG: A very special ’68 congratulations goes to Charlie Holland, who was selected as a USAFA Distinguished Graduate for 2016. Charlie joins Ed Eberhart as the second classmate to be so recognized and honored. A formal banquet to honor Charlie and the other selectees for 2016 will be held at the USAFA Officers Club on 7 April at 6 p.m. If you wish to purchase a ticket to attend the banquet, please contact Daisy Hall, director of Event Planning at the AOG at 719-472-0300 ext. 147. Way to go, Charlie!

Kodak moment in China on the Goddess Stream in the Three Gorges. From left are Sharon and Tim Ayres, Nancie and Michael Freeborn, and Steve and Susie Marlier.

CLASSMATES FULFILL BUCKET-LIST VACATION TO CHINA: The Ayres, Marliers and Freeborns enjoyed a September 2016 China adventure together. This was quite an amazing trip that dispelled a lot of their perceived notions about China.

In addition to the visit to the Goddess Stream, shown in the photo, they discovered a beer vending machine in the Shanghai Airport where Michael Freeborn took the opportunity to “liberate” one of the cans for a personal taste test. Steve Marlier opined, “Susie and I thought this was our all-time favorite trip. Looking back, I think Hong Kong was our favorite stop followed closely by Shanghai and Beijing. It was a blast to travel with Tim, Sharon, Mike and Nancie.”

Tim Ayres retired from Southwest Airlines in 2005 and enjoys taking advantage of his travel benefits. Sharon and he have also been blessed with four beautiful grandchildren. Tim writes, “Retirement has not been boring! Once I retired from the Reserves and Southwest, we have had the time to enjoy our families and travel with many of our classmates. Our oldest daughter was just hired

by Southwest, so now she is experiencing some of the wonderful times I had in my 18 years with the airline. Probably doesn’t sound too different than what we all have experienced in our almost 50 years since graduation.

Speaking of which, we are looking forward to the reunion in 2018 and catching up with our classmates and all their new happenings, again.”

Michael and Nancie FreeMembers born live in Chicago, IL, Lake 72% Geneva, WI, and Naples, FL. Michael has been practicing law in Chicago for 45 years and serves on the board of ORPHANetwork. Nancie and he volunteer for many philanthropic organizations, are Sabre Society Donors blessed with nine grandchil40 dren, and enjoy traveling with USAFA classmates.

Steve Marlier retired from industry at 50 years old and had executive positions with IBM and the Santa Fe Railroad. Susie recently retired after more than 40 years of nursing in labor and delivery. They live in Charlotte, NC and have four sons and 11 grandchildren. Steve spends his time focused on volunteer work in Charlotte by volunteering with hospice, an adult memory day care facility, and with the Knights of Columbus at his local parish. ’68ER REFEREE HEAVILY INTO WINE, BEER AND EXOTIC TRAVEL: Our classmate, Charlie Seifert, continued officiating track and field in 2016. After the 2016 Olympic Games, he began working on his recertification for the 2020 Olympiad. This spring, he will be at the NCAA Division III outdoor nationals in Ohio and the New Balance Nationals in North Carolina. When not wearing a striped-shirt and carrying a whistle on the “fields of friendly strife,” he is part owner of the Barrel Oak Winery in Virginia, which, in addition to awardwinning wines, premiered its farm-brewed craft

beer in December 2016. Other pursuits include serving as a volunteer with the National Park Service at the Fredericksburg (two days a month) and Chancellorsville (once a month) battlefields.

During the warmer months, he gets outside with the public and gives walking tours of “The Sunken Road” and “The Jackson Wounding.” To celebrate his 70th birthday, Polly and he had an incredible voyage around the Galapagos Islands in July with a follow-on land cruise in Peru and Machu Picchu.

his battle with cancer. Our prayers go out to his wife, Cynthia, and his family and friends. On 25 Nov 2016, Thomas J. Meyer, formerly from Cadet Squadron 23, passed away in Martinsville, VA. Condolences may be sent to his family in care of his wife, Mrs. Carol Meyer at 415 Devonshire Drive; Ridgeway, VA 24148-3449.

We also pray for the loss of family members with the unexpected passing of my step-brother, Richard Judge, on 19 Dec 2016 and Vern McGraw’s mother, who died on 8 Jan 2017 at the age of 98.

We offer continued prayers for healing, peace and comfort to classmates Geoff Gorsuch, Jeff Feinstein, Bill Markham, Pete Davis, Dave Helgevold, and others who are fighting the good fight.

Please give them a call from time to time to let them know you care.

THAT’S A WRAP: Mind the flak; keep ’me flying, and keep those cards, letters, e-mails and photos coming in to Pat Russell and me. Ciao for now. Tim

Pat Hurley catches really big fish.

A CATCH AND RELEASE GEM: Pat Hurley writes, “I was showing this to a physical therapist working on my aging shoulder and thought some fishermen among our classmates might get a hoot out of it. I caught the fish on Bulkley River, north of Smithers in British Columbia, on a 5wt 13-foot Spey rod on a Skeena Poacher streamer. I figure it was about 23 pounds by looking at the formula for fish that are 40.5 inches by 24.5 inches. It was harmlessly released to fight again.”

–Tim Davidson, 9712 Hidden Valley Road, Vienna, VA 22181-6094; Home: (703) 255-5313; Mobile: (703) 772-6052; timdav1968@verizon.net; Class Website: www.usafa68.org

’ 68er AOC Bob Pauli with former cadet, now CSAF, General Dave Goldfein. ’68’S DIRECT CONNECTION TO CURRENT CSAF: This photo was taken on 22 Sept 2016 at CSAF General Dave Goldfein’s Tattoo ceremony. Bob Pauli writes, “Dave was a cadet in my squadron when I was CS-19 AOC from 1982-83. As you can see, Cadet Goldfein took my leadership tips to heart, then either followed them or maybe did the opposite. Either way, I feel like a ‘Proud Papa’ and was very grateful to Dave for being so thoughtful as to invite me to his 4-Star pin-on in 2015 and to his CSAF Tattoo Ceremony at Joint Base Andrews-Bolling in September. Gen Terry O’Shaughnessy, Lt Gen Chris Bogdan, and Brig. Gen. Dana Born were also cadets in my squadron. Quite a talented bunch! Made a tough job easier.”

THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS: Since my last column, we are mourning the passing of two more classmates. In October 2016, Mark Wise lost

1969

Happy 2017. One more Checkpoints closer to the 50th! Hope all are ready for a big spring (the last one some of us will enjoy at the magic age of 69) and eager to memorialize our time together all these years roughly 30 short months from now.

In the “About Time” category, ’69’s Dave Yost has been selected as a USAFA Distinguished Graduate. As CEO of the one-time Fortune #7 company and selected as one of the world’s top CEOs by Harvard Business Review, Dave’s business accomplishments are matched by few; in addition, he and Jean sponsored the CCLD’s Honor Library, right across from the Cadet Wing Honor Board Room (our class gift). Dave also is a charter member of the USAFA Endowment Board. Dave and three other inductees will be honored at the Founders Day Members Dinner on April 7. Dave, huge 70% congratulations to you from us all. ’69 is honored to call you “classmate.”

Also retiring in January, after 45 years of uniformed and civilian service, was Bob Bell, ‘69’s only U.S. Ambassador, from his Sabre Society position as DOD’s Senior CivilDonors ian Representative in Europe 44 and USNATO Defense Advisor for the past seven years.

SecDef Ashton Carter surprised Bob in October, awarding him the Distinguished Public Service Medal, DoD’s highest civilian award. Bob’s retirement fete in D.C. was dramatically different from that in Brussels, fittingly held at Comet Ping Pong, the Connecticut Avenue pizzeria that gained such

undeserved notoriety during November’s election.

We saluted his career with Bell’s Two-Hearted Ale (what else!), the beverage of the evening. Delish.

[Ping Pong supplanting pool as a favored bistro/ bar diversion?—times a’changing] The nation will miss Bob’s steadfast brilliance on the international political-military diplomacy front, as he and Vibeke move to splitting time between Amelia Island and Provence, France. Meanwhile, he plans to tackle unfinished business and complete his PhD at Fletcher/Tufts. Golf is also high on their priority list.

Ambassador Bob receives the Distinguished Public Service Medal.

In the fall, Dick Doyle stepped down from his decades-long position at the Naval Postgraduate School, and he and Kathy relocated to Tucson, AZ (where he celebrated his 70th on Veteran Day).

Jerry Ball slipped out to Tucson to help celebrate the occasion and their many years of camaraderie. Jerry used the occasion to continue his own personal celebration of the National Park Service’s 100th Anniversary, where he added to his list of visits to national parks, monuments and historical sites—now totaling around 33. Meanwhile, Dick was delighted to learn of other ’69ers in the Tucson area, among them Rick Olafson, Tom Keck, Mike Wetterer and Scott Ingram, with Tom “T-Mack” McGrain, Tom Bonelli, Elton Humphries, Bud Speace, Tom Nielson and Mike Chipman in Phoenix. [And, surprise, I tracked down former Phoenix denizen Roger Bailey in his new residence in San Miguel De Allende, Mexico]. Meanwhile, a Tucson gathering that cheered the Falcons to victory is rumored to have taken place.

Dick turns 70 with Jerry Ball as witness.

Finally, as the curtain went down on 2016, Brian Nelson and Glenn Schlabs celebrated retiring after years of concerted professionalism in the medical profession for Bri, legal for Glenn. The number of Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS pain-free backs and relieved clients these two have amassed, respectively, over the years is testament to virtuoso skills and professionalism as we know that word from USAFA days. Helping one’s fellow man ranks high on the list of virtues. Class congrats to both Seagram’s Seveners. Meanwhile, prices of equities have soared, especially gin and hangovercure stocks, and with Brian and Lizzie ensconced in Castle Pines, there is a solid linchpin between the ’69 dwellers of the Springs and the northern outpost of Fort Collins. Things will never be the same again.

Over Christmas, a small impromptu gathering at our place in San Antonio found Bob and Patricia Rue, Jerry Ball, Bill and Fran Haney, Wade and Jane Morrison, and Tom and Karen Keck rooting our Falcons on. Bob is still working miracles for SRA/ CSRA, and the rest are working non-eight-to-six jobs or trying to be retired in fact. Team Rue has purchased a lake home near Dallas. We believe USAFA’s victory (after the rugged start), resulted from Tom’s direct verbal order to Bob not to move from his lucky seat. The Kecks and we lingered for a while to delight in FSU’s squeaker win.

Mike Rose continues to lead one of the most active AOG associations in the country, which has been named a “Distinguished Chapter” of the AOG three years in a row, with regular get-togethers featuring Academy officials and the occasional golf outing. ’69ers Chuck Jackson, Charlie Baldwin, Jeb Hallet, and Mike participate in these gatherings regularly.

Also working in Charleston, though still with residence in North Carolina, is Jimmy Abbott. Seems he and Charlie (w/Ann) synched up at church in McClellanville, as Charlie’s grandfather and the father of the man who salvaged Jimmy’s first “pirate boat” were brothers. The salvage operator, nicknamed “Zero”, engineered Jimmy’s election as church warden in Jimmy’s absence (a lesson to us all!), and even had him deliver a sermon one Sunday when the real preacher could not. Zero is alleged to have installed a lightning rod atop the steeple – just in case! Charlie is sufficiently intrigued with Jimmy’s work that he has ridden shotgun to job sites and contract prebids. Stranger than fiction—Jimmy the preacher and Charlie the steel and concrete dock trainee. Doesn’t get better than that. New insights, even if late in coming, are always welcome!

Mike and Jeannie Martin just finished Mike’s septuagenarian celebration, for which he laid the groundwork for his new knee by rocking 1,900 miles on his Harley last fall (where was Chip Ambrose during this ritual of passage?), during which he visited family in Fort Collins and Tommy and Rebecca Love in Park City. Mike was able to see AF beat Navy with grandchildren sporting AF shirts.

They are contemplating relocating the Sonoma Valley to the Fort Collins area to join family (See photo at the top of the next column.)

Ken Stevenson is excited about his new book on the Shroud of Turin, soon to be released, which culminates 40 years of work and research focused on unpacking the mysteries, legends and truths regarding this witness to God’s “unspeakable gift.”

A TBN live broadcast on 3 November featured Ken and his work. Big congrats to Ken for his diligent efforts over so many years.

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Mike Martin and granddaughter watch the Falcons beat Navy.

Meanwhile, those partying Spencers, Dave and Debbie, are still holding regular celebratory functions in honor of those marvelous Cubs. Drop by if you’re down Atlanta way.

That’s it for this issue. More news but no space!

Be well, all. Salute, Lindsey.

–Lindsey Parris, 616 King’s Cloister Circle, Alexandria, VA 22302; Home: (703) 836-3604; 102177.1033@compuserve.com

1970

Greetings classmates! It is the end of January and Marilyn and I hope you all had a great holiday season. How about them Falcons!

Troy Calhoun and his staff deserve mega kudos for guiding the team to a great 10-3 season and bringing the Commanderin-Chief’s Trophy back to its rightful home. Arion Worthman, the sophomore QB who stepped in near the end of the season for an injured Nate Romine, gave the Falcons a new running dimension at QB. He can throw the ball, too. The future is bright as we return some good offensive players. CS-13 men and spouses enjoyed a mini-reunion at the Army game. Dana and Brigid Demand hosted the gang.

Bringing home the CIC Trophy. In front are Cathy Spinner, Sally Russ, Martha Moore, and Phil Moore.

Back: Craig Northrup, Chris Calvert, Carol Calvert, Brigid Demand, Karen Northrup, Rich Spinner, and Dana Demand.

Heard from a lot of classmates the last few months—will try to capture everyone’s input. Saw

Glen and Sharleen Leimbach having some Mexican food. Glenn just had shoulder surgery and was planning to go to Hawaii to recuperate. Rex and Lynn Levoy are enjoying retirement and Rex likes playing the senior tees—don’t we all? Skip Penny wanted to know who our oldest classmate was. Rex will hit 73 in August. Many of us hit our class year number this year. Yikes!

Mike Kelly hit the big seven— oh and did some skydiving Members to celebrate. Are you kidding 73% me! Skip’s daughter is getting her Masters and will become the vice commandant at the Academy Prep School.

Henry Mitchell continues to teach skiing. He and Liz spend a lot of time on the slopes. Got Sabre Society Donors a nice email from Jim Hoffman who lives in Arizona. Wild Bill 44 and Denise Stealey are in Florida for the winter. Jim Rogers just retired and is looking to tune up his golf game.

George Keys, Greg Woodhead and spouses spent Thanksgiving together—a long-standing tradition.

Mike Brown and Tommy Thompson did a 12day trek in Patagonia. They flew into Punta Arenas, which is right on the Strait of Magellan. Believe it or not, the ’70 men found a great little brewpub there where they sampled various brews.

Mike Brown and Tommy Thompson sampling some brewskies in Patagonia.

Although semi-retired, Joe Burke still does quite a bit of consulting work, and has been on the road a lot -- Accra, Ghana; Quito, Ecuador; and Vancouver, BC. Bruce and Susan Harmon are now living in Wiesbaden, where Susan has a one-year contract with the Army as a counselor. Joe and Diane went to Zagreb and visited with the Harmons.

John Pomeroy, as he has for four of the past five years, volunteered with the Military Bowl in Annapolis to recruit local area cadets and midshipmen from the service academies to serve as escorts/ hosts for the Medal of Honor recipients attending the bowl. Five AFA cadets participated. Phill Kolbe is doing prison ministry at a maximum security prison in Florida with great success. He is working on his second book—The Other Terrorist. Phill said Bill and Anne Lundberg spent Christmas taking care of dogs at the SPCA in the Texas Hill Country.

Charlie Bobbish got $8,100 for his Veterans— Let’s Play Hockey program. The money will keep

this great program alive for another year. Jerry and Pam Bruni again made generous donations to the Colorado Springs Empty Stocking Fund. Dave Sterling continues to do great work with the CAP. He is the Pentagon liaison for the CAP and is working hard to develop an interest in flying with young people.

Speedy and Wendy Martin were on the road seeing family and fulfilling a bucket list goal of seeing all the presidential libraries—they are at five of 13 so far. They are finally getting into their home here in Colorado Springs. Speedy is bemoaning the unpacking of all they have accumulated over the years. I think “downsizing” is a word many of us are thinking about as we get older.

Mike and Anne Torreano continue to commute between cold Colorado Springs and golf-friendly Arizona. Mike is hard at work on his second book.

I just finished The Reckoning. It is great Western novel complete with plenty of action, very believable characters, and solid story line. A superb read men—I encourage all of you to get it! Mike is finishing up his term on the AOG Board of Directors.

His presence will be sorely missed. We all owe him a deep debt of gratitude for doing a superb job in many areas. There was a nice article on Mike in the last Checkpoints. Well deserved classmate! I hope all of you vote in the AOG election and support the bylaw changes. The AOG is finally starting to recover from the disaster the AOG Reunification Committee (ARC) caused about 10 years ago.

I saw a great picture on Facebook of Jim Andrews’ sailboat in Florida. It is named Falcon and has 1970 on the sail. Mike Lambert posted a picture of an old Corvette with the license plate— USAFA 1970. Pretty neat, Jim and Mike! I saw a very complimentary article about George Sparks who is doing superb work as president and CEO of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Larry and Marleen Bush and Jack and Margie Mueller continue to spend a lot of time in Vegas. Gregg Popovich seems to have the Spurs rolling again.

Let’s hope he makes the finals this year. Charlie and Kathy Ward are retired in Norfolk, after he served in the AF Reserves as a doctor at Langley. John Disosway had his second knee replaced in December. I will need more strokes next summer John.

Gary Dahlen, Tooey Emery and I recently visited the company that did the interactive screens in the SEA Pavilion. We will be working with them to put more stories on the screens and to update our website 70SEAPavilion.com. The website will have everything that is on the Pavilion screens and many more stories, which were too long to put on the screens. It will also provide links to books and other websites about the war in SEA. It should be a great resource for cadets and others interested in the conflict. If you have a story about your experience during the war, contact me for details on what we need.

Tom and Sheila Waskow are doing great things with the USO in North Carolina. They continue to serve the active duty military and their family members. Tom was honored by the Carolina Panthers to represent the Vietnam Veterans of North and South Carolina during their Salute to Service game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Carolina Panthers Honor Tom Waskow I regret to inform you of the death of our classmate Ted Keefer last August. No details were provided.

Finally, I encourage all of you to join USAFA ’70 Classmates on Facebook. We have nearly 200 members and it is a great way to stay in touch.

Stay healthy and start working on your golf games for the summer men!

–Dick Rauschkolb, Cell: (719) 310-6928; AOG70@comcast.net

1971

The Falcon football team brought the Commander-inChief’s trophy back to Colorado, spotted South Alabama three touchdowns, and then shut them down for the second half of the Arizona Bowl in Tucson.

One of Ernie Jennings’ records finally fell, but there are still a few that our class holds. Just

sayin’…

This may be the final photo from the reunion – unless you guys send more, of course. Larry Hammond sent me this shot of the guys from Fifth Squadron our first two years: Budge Wilson, Tan Pinney, Mike Leahy, Larry Hammond, Jim Nance, Dan Ledford, Rich Shannon, Mark Sievers, John Greuser, and Paul Maffey. Bill Zedaker must have been on the Alpha roster, because he had already left when this photo was taken.

From left are Wilson, Pinney, Leahy, Hammond, Nance, Ledford, Shannon, Sievers, Greuser and Maffey.

Cass Casada and Lady Laura tied the knot in Hawaii in early January. Rick Barton and Fred Strauss and their ladies represented the class.

Fred’s big thrill was meeting Wayne Newton during

the luau. When Cass gets back to Colorado, he’ll be planning this year’s golf tournament in Larkspur on Thursday, June 8 (to avoid weekend rates), As usual, proceeds will go to the Air Warrior Combat Memorial fund.

Speaking of AWCM, here is Frank Morgan’s latest update: “We have been able to collect an additional $125K since the reunion, bringing our total to $980K, or 70% of the $1.4M we need.

Of that $980K, $780K goes to the AWCM. The other $200K pays for the two breakout rooms in the CCLD. Of the $780K for the AWCM, $440K is in cash, leavMembers ing us $110K short of the cash 59% necessary to start construction of the site and the statue of Gen. Robin Olds. We just received the latest set of concept drawings from the commercial design team, and they are awesome.

The final design should be comSabre Society plete by the end of February, and Donors we are hoping to go on contract 39 in March or April at the latest. So we need your help in collecting the necessary funds to complete the project. The above numbers represent a 33% participation rate by our class, so there are still many of you who have not donated. I encourage you to go to our website at airwarrior.org to see the latest design, as it looks nothing like our original concept (we hope to have it updated by the time this edition of Checkpoints is out). The website also contains all the information on how to contribute.”

During Founders Day, one of the Distinguished Graduate honorees will be our own Gary Payton.

The banquet will be Friday, April 7. In the same email from the AOG, Jim Brown has been named as the new CEO of the Ayn Rand Institute.

Chip on top of the world!

Chip Hamby has checked in with the column for the first time. “Attached is a photo of me on top of Mt. Kilimanjaro! Retired now on my bucket list.

As Cadet in Charge of the Cadet Mountaineering Club way back in ’70 and ’71, I did a lot of climbing in the best state for such stuff – Colorado. But, I’ve never been above 14,355 feet (Long’s Peak). Last summer, while in Colorado training for Kili (as they say in Tanzania), I bought a pin that said ‘Don’t trust anyone under 14,000 feet’. I took it with me to Tanzania, but made a T-shirt, in anticipation of the climb, that said ‘Don’t trust anyone under Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS 19,000’. That is what I am wearing in the picture.

On the way down, I gave my guide Bernard (they all use English names) the Colorado pin. LOL! He was actually very proud of it and loves showing it off to his fellow guides. Next on my bucket list is the World War II Airborne Demonstration Team School in Oklahoma in July to make five jumps from a C-47. Dad, who dropped the 82nd Airborne at Normandy in 1944 with the 315th Troop Carrier Group, would say I’m crazy!” Chip, all I can say about the Oklahoma plan is; “We aren’t jumping out of perfectly good airplanes. We’re leaving C-119s!” (Fort Benning, summer of 1969)

Happy New Year 2017!! Warm greetings go forth to you all as we embark on what will be a future full of challenges. The last Checkpoints came out close to a momentous day for our nation.

To folks on either side of the political spectrum, I say “Namaste.”

Since we did not have the final 2017 football schedule at press time, our 45th Class reunion dates will be listed on the USAFA/AOG website by sometime in March.

We start out this issue with a photo of Terry Schiessler and his ’99 grad daughter Lt. Col. Jennifer Fuller standing at the top of Mt. Democrat in central Colorado this past summer. Jennifer was back home from a year in Kuwait and spent some quality time with the folks on her way to her next tour at the Pentagon. Also, when she comes back next year, they’ll do another climb -- if Terry is recovered by then.

1972

AWCM Plaza Concept Some of you know that Sam Clovis was on then-candidate Trump’s campaign. He won’t be returning to northwest Iowa anytime soon. He has accepted a position as senior White House advisor to the Department of Agriculture. When so many of us are cutting back on our outside duties, Sam is adding to his portfolio. Congratulations, Sam! GBA

The Class of ’71

continues to encourage classmates to support their 40th Reunion Class Gift Project, the Air Warrior Combat Memorial (AWCM) which honors General Olds, our commandant, the spirit of the Air Warrior and those Academy Graduates who have served as air combat warriors. Class of ’71 celebrated a site visit at their 45th Reunion, and strives for full class participation to help reach their goal. With only 33% participation, the class has already collected 71% of the $1.4M needed.

Please support your ’71 class giving efforts at usafa.org/give/71awcm.

–Paul D. Knott, 5565 Lantana Drive, Colorado springs, CO 80915; Home: (719) 570-9162; pk71knott@gmail.com

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Jennifer Fuller and Terry Schiessler Doug Brower was one of a group of ’72ers to enjoy the chance to finish the Falcon football season in style. The last home game of the regular season was the day after Thanksgiving versus #19 Boise State University. Since the Cadet Wing was away on Thanksgiving leave, the Athletic Department put out the word to the permanent party and their families that they could “march” on the field before the game and sit in the cadet section. The grad group piggybacked on that and AH said, “hey, the more the merrier.” A tunnel photo had folks reminiscing about the last time they Members were in the tunnel… 44 ½ years 55% ago. Dave Peterson, although not present himself, holds an honored position in the photo caption since if it wasn’t for Dave giving us all our ’72 flags at the 35th Reunion, no one could have found the guys in Sabre Society Donors that gaggle at this game. They even made the Jumbotron due 29 to the flag. It was all topped off by AF upsetting BSU for the third year in a row. The crew celebrating at the local Mexican restaurant after the game included the Schiesslers, Scaces, Browers and CMSGT (Ret) “Uncle” Bob Diehl. A good time was had by all, with everyone saying they can’t wait for our 45th reunion coming up next fall.

From left are Terry Schiessler, Dan Scace, Skip Morgan, Greg Smith, Doug Brower, Sandy Lewis, Ski Wagasky, Andy Caltagirone (and Flag by Dave Peterson).

We have fresh news from John Cignatta on his 20-year cycle of updates (grin) on things going on in his life. On a recent Saturday in his backyard, he got a beautiful 8-point buck with his muzzleloader.

John and Marie built a homestead on several acres of forest in the Patapsco River Valley 10 years ago.

Around his Baltimore County area, they typically only get does. Rules in place to control the burgeoning deer population stipulate that he must get 10 does before he can go after another buck. It is such a rare thing to even see a buck around there that he could not believe his eye looking through the telescopic sight that this doe had horns atop her head. Further, he could not believe how heavy this big boy was as he dragged him to the barn to gut and clean.

In the photo, from right are: 1) John’s trophy bride, Marie (married her 46 years ago at the Moody AFB chapel five months after meeting her), 2) his first buck ever, 3) the Go-Kart he built for his grandkids, 4) his white Silverado, 5) the red bottom of his Old Town canoe, 6) the green tarp cover over his white Yamaha twin-engine jet boat (max speed that he has ever been up to is 55 knots) and 7) in the corner there is a red “primered” fender of his ’49 Chevy truck (it is a long-term project).

John Cignatta’s worldview!

This grouping tells a lot about his interests and hobbies. In the process of taking the buck to the deer butcher, the crowd piled around the (truck) bed since this was the biggest buck turned in so far this season. An old guy asked John if he used the Go-Kart to haul the buck out of the woods. John said he was using the kart to chase down the deer.

He had raced after that buck for more than two

miles and it was clearly heading toward the line with Howard County (a sanctuary county). When John sped up to catch up, he hit a culvert causing him to fly into the air. As he looked down, seeing the buck beneath him in a thicket, he spun his muzzleloader around and got him before touching down. The old guy said he believed everything up to the point that John said the word “muzzleloader”.

His specialty petroleum systems engineering and construction company, now in its 33rd year of operation, always keeps John busy. Part of his business is training courses on fuel systems, primarily as part of a big project with DOD. Last year had him teaching one-week tank manager classes in Tokyo, Seattle, San Diego, Jacksonville, Norfolk, and of course, Baltimore. John hopes to hear from anyone who has been to Diego Garcia, since he has a oneweek class there coming up in 2017. With the contract airline flights to Diego Garcia being cut way back, he will probably be there several days before and after the class. Having heard it is the Bone Fish capital of planet Earth, he is looking for advice from anyone who has been there in the past decade or so on what fishing gear to bring and how to use it.

Finally, John attended the Baltimore Area AOG get-together at a sports bar to watch Air Force beat Army. No ’72ers were there, nor even anyone from that era. Never having been to any reunions at USAFA, he plans to be at the 50th. Hey John!! Maybe you can think about attending the 45th as well.

David Tumino is going for it again this spring with the BP MS 150, on the weekend of 29-30 April 2017. In previous years, you have heard of his continuing presence in the National MS Society Lone Star Chapter cycling tour from Houston to Austin.

David once again rides the 180-mile distance with Team Audrey’s Heroes. From 1985 through the 2016 race, the Houston BP MS 150 has raised $204 million, making it the largest event of its kind in North America. His fund-raising efforts in the past have made him a member of Club 300, comprised of the top 300 fundraisers, his place being #149 on that list. Last year alone, they raised $4.3 million.

To reach the site for a donation, search “Tumino 2017 BP MS 150” and you reach the event website where you can then enter David’s name or his team name to donate direct. David plans to once again successfully complete his part, and our continuing financial support will make it all the better.

That is all I have for you in this edition. Thanks again for your support. FPA

years, he’s been involved in pretty much every level of automated people mover and light rail connections to airports. In a previous “assignment” with LAWA, Bob ran the LAX Improvement Program, and oversaw the development of the LAX Master Plan and its associated Environmental Impact Statement and Report, a job nobody would envy. Congratulations Bob! At a time when so many of us are kicking back, you’re continuing Members to demonstrate excellence in 53% your profession that few can match.

Continuing on the aviation theme, but on a much smaller scale, Alan Kinback and Stalker Reed (both of CS-07) flew Alan’s new Carbon Cub from the facSabre Society tory in Yakima, WA to West Palm Donors Beach, FL. (Well, Stalker jumped 29 ship at his home in the Atlanta, GA area.) It took them two weeks in November and December. They had just two weather delays, and fortunately were able to wait out the first one due to the hospitality of squadron mate Bill Paterson at his Livermore, CA home. Alan bought the airplane to better serve environmental studies for the Light Hawk non-profit organization in his home state of Florida. All three recently retired from the airlines: USAir (American), American, and Delta, respectively. Stalker sent an annotated map of the route they took. I’ll include that online.

Stalker Reed (left) and Alan Kinback with Alan’s new Carbon Cub. Same squadron (Seagram’s Seven), different story. Thanks to the ties established long ago in the Aluminum Womb it has a happy ending, but it was

touch and go. Glen Johnston was in a minor car accident here in the Springs on Tuesday evening, 30 Dec. The next evening, he had intense sinus pain but refused to go to the doctor, so squadron mate Joe Kahoe hung out with him for several hours. They didn’t connect on Thursday; but, on Friday morning, Joe couldn’t reach him by phone, so he drove to Glen’s house in Douglas Valley. When Glen didn’t respond to the door bell or phone calls, Joe called the security forces, who helped him get in. Glen was in bed, incoherent and in obvious trouble, so they called an ambulance. Over the next nine hours, the Penrose Hospital ER ran lots of tests, including two CT scans of his head, where they detected bleeding on one side of his brain.

After the first scan, they were prepping for surgery; however, the second scan showed the location and nature of the bleed made it inoperable. They finally cleared a bed in the ICU and moved him up there Friday night. Joe was able to contact Glen’s sisters Friday afternoon, and they flew out to Colorado Saturday morning. On Saturday, the docs discovered he had suffered a stroke on the opposite side of his brain from the bleed.

Fortunately, after about a week at Penrose, he was able to be transferred to a rehab center. Visits from several classmates seemed to cheer him up, as they brought things like squadron pins, Academy sports paraphernalia and news of the outside world.

Amazingly, on 21 Jan he was released to the care of his sister, who has moved to Colorado temporarily to care for him in his home. Whether or not he recovers completely is TBD; one day at a time, and every day is a gift. In the meantime, we need to establish a class “Humanitarian Service Medal,” with its first recipient being Joe Kahoe. As classmate and MD Bob Munson (CS-34) succinctly put it, “No Joe, no Glen.” While we all may hope we would have responded as Joe did, Joe actually did it. “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”(Big breath before continuing with the more mundane.)

The Band of Brothers from Dirty 30 got together to celebrate harvest time in Napa Valley. Shown just before exploring the best Castello de Amorosa had to offer are Gary and Sheryl Gee, Rich and Elaine Shurtleff, Rick and Stephanie Comer, Don and Kathy Gaylor, John and Kathy Blecher, Pat and Sandy Dulin, Mickey and Sharon Tramontana, Tim and Margaret Sisson, Don and Renee Ottinger, Jerry and Winnie O’Connor, and Paul Pitcovich.

–Bob Bell, 13 Pacific Ave., Sinking Spring, PA 19608; Cell: (302) 399-3240; reservist777@ yahoo.com Greetings, Illustrious Class of 1973!

Up front is Bob Gilbert, CS-20.

In November, Bob was appointed chief development officer for Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA).

Job description includes big words like capital improvement, landside access modernization and environmental programs. Over the last 15

1973

Dirty 30 in Napa Valley!

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS Geoff Michael (CS-37) reported the CS-37 Smilers held a mini-reunion in Dallas for the Cotton Bowl game in October. Nine attended; a record turnout for their annual events. They took side trips to the Texas School Book Depository and the Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Check out the picture in the online version at usafa73.org.

Don Wetekam (CS-19) participated as a panelist in an Arizona business fair named Verdexchange in December. He was in good company, it turns out: Kees Rietsema (CS-14/Wing Staff) was one of the organizers; former CSAF Norty Schwartz (CS-34) gave a keynote address; and John Regni (CS-28), who lives in the area, also attended. See the picture online.

I received individual updates from a number of guys: Mark Stuckley (CS-09/17) reports he and Linda celebrated their 40th in May and watched Air Force beat both Army and Navy. Fred Beckman (CS-03): “I live a quiet retired life in Maryland.” Dick and Karen Schanberger (CS-09) have given up 30 years of heat and humidity in Houston for condo life and rain slickers on the beach in Ocean Shores, WA. By the time you read this, Ed and Pam Hageman (CS-09 DNG) will have moved down the street from Denny and Deb Clark (CS-09) in Poinciana, FL (near Orlando). Mike Hay (CS-18) reported driving from Alaska to SoCal: “Memorable and fantastic!!” Their three sons are doing well. The youngest is trying to figure out how to get an optometry slot in the Air Force. If anybody has any contacts, please let Mike or me know. And Mike still denies knowing anything about a low-level supersonic pass over a railroad station somewhere in West Texas in 1974.

Speaking of Laughlin, our first neighbor in Del Rio, Gary Blokland (CS-33), “graduated” from Delta Airlines on 13 Dec. Wife, Judy, flew up to Portland to join him on his last flight into SLC. Pix on class website. They’ll be staying in the Park City, UT area, but making lots of flights to San Jose to visit grandkids. Ed Whitt (CS-07) made his last flight for Southwest on 18 Dec, but claims he’s not the youngest in our class. Who else is left, still flying for the airlines? Devin Stilson (CS-01): “Happy new year. As we used to say ‘That’s all I got.’” After 10 years at Briar Cliff College in Sioux City, IA, Steve Gast (CS-30) is moving on to other things. Will be staying in the Sioux City area, about a day’s drive from wife, Sharon’s, family in North Dakota. Steve notes that one of his daughters lost her mind and married an Army warrant officer.

Well, that wraps it up for this edition. Mike Arnett. “Here’s a toast… to the host… of the men we boast… the U.S. Air Force!”

–Mike Arnett, 5285 Copper Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918; (719) 310-8100; jmikearnett@gmail.com; Class.Scribe@R-NetServices. com

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Hello classmates! I like starting with good news. Here’s a picture of our class mates at the USAFA vs West Point 31/12 last Nov. The Command-in-Chief’s Trophy came to USAFA! Behind the scenes story is that Paul and his USAFA roommate (Randy) have been going to the AF-Army games every year since our 20th reunion. This year, they organized a mini-reunion of the CS Seagram’s Seven. Thanks Paul and Randy, and classmates for sending this in!

1974

USAFA ’74 at the Army/Air Force game. In the top row are Paul Spendley, Randy Nierstheimer, Wayne and Sally Higgins. Sitting: Ginger Spendley, Nan Nierstheimer, Pat and Frank McIntire (’78), Gloria Lewis, Dawn and Dean Harimoto, and Howie Lewis.

Note original issue USAFA red blanket/bench warmers! And beating the “banner police”. Nothing says you can’t have a message on your seat cushions! Also, note Paul is holding the Checkpoints magazine. The classmates also sent in a picture, same suspects, holding letters to spell “Go AF Beat Army”. Scribe shows this one – if you want the other, send the scribe an email request! This year will be new for Paul and Ginger because she is retired now... six years to get to the 7th grade… 11 years to get to 8th …and then five years to graduate from that. Is there anyone out there thinking that now is the hard part… living together full time?

Thank you classmates for writing in. There are more info-bites I can pass on for your enjoyment. For those who are grandparents, you will be able to relate to Dale and Ginny Burchby. They have their first, a grandson.

Members Even better for visiting, their 54% grandson, their daughter and her husband have moved into the Oakland area. Frequent flyer miles are adding up. Dale and Ginny have an open invitation to stop by when you come Sabre Society through San Diego!

Donors JJ (Cynthia) Romano sent 34 in a note from San Antonio. JJ still has the love for flying the engineless planes. Their son is launching and recovering the Reaper MQ-9 in Nevada. JJ is working for a company called Alion Science and Technology -- with some interesting work. Surprisingly he works on contracts for the Army Environmental

Command -- doing things like working storm water heavy metal reduction issues on Army firing ranges along with the standard ISR and cyber stuff for the Air Force. No plans to retire at present, the company could change that of course.

Urban cowboys Dave and Jim. Dave Hoglund updated with a note from Prescott, AZ. Dave works black-world projects in North Carolina and the California desert. The other cowboy is Jim Kostner. Jim is doing well as a part-time track coach, part-time financial planner, and part-time movie producer. He said they only spent hours talking about our old USAFA cross country and track days! …and the Olympic distant running events.

Mike and Maggie Carter are in Lakeland, FL, about nine years now. Mike is with Oracle, still, and is a vice-president overseeing front-line managers. They have eight grandchildren, but they are not close by. One set in Huntsville, AL. Mike and Maggie’s youngest live in a place at the corner of Central Park!

Roy and Ann sans anything.

From the other corner of the continent, Roy and Ann Lower are still working on their castle.

We’ve seen them with all sorts of coverings and weather. I thought you may remember them better with a plain picture! For those familiar with their reconstruction process, perhaps you can feel the growth of their Camelot! But, they feel like it’s time to spend more time with the grandkids before they get into high school and college and… off they go into the wild blue yonder!

Down to middle America. From Oklahoma is a short note from Vic and Katie LaSaxon. They sent in pictures of their three grandkids. I have no idea what they (older LaSaxons) look like now!

Another family with only grandchildren pictures are John and Cheryl Ephland still keeping the

peace down in the central part of the U.S. Anyone going through the Kansas City area is welcome to visit. They should be home. Their grandkids are close by. My wife thinks that one granddaughter looks like Cheryl. John thinks of retiring in a few years from his airport security… Grammas never retire… writes Cheryl. They did get their first travel trailer. It’s 28 feet. My only guess is that the travels of Rich and Peggy Bowman inspired them?! By the way, last email from Peggy/Rich was from Hawaii.

Tales of lava flowing and descendants of Canadian geese who got “off course?” Thousands of years ago! Travelling also affected other folks working on their bucket list. Denny and Lin Hughes wrote in their highlight of 2016 was an Alaskan land and sea cruise… with a zip-line adventure at another place!

Now that they are back at their home rested, they can meet up with nine grandchildren.

Overseas travel also accomplished by Bill and Terry Casement. Cycling seven days in Amsterdam in April for tulips and hyacinths. I reckon they were in shape for that; they write they still do 3-mile runs. This came out when Bill explained that the rescue dog they got carries their water for them.

He cleared the suspicion of cruelty to animals by explaining it’s a high energy dog that needs it.

Their stateside travels include the balloon festival in Albuquerque… skiing in Copper Mountain and Breckenridge.

Other overseas travel completed by Jim and Helen Shamess who lived through 14 days in Ireland. And to listen to Jim’s side… barely lived through it. But all is well thanks to Helen and the emergency brake. All must be well; they sent in a family picture of 14 of them. Perhaps another time.

Joe and Joy Kelly write after a year recuperating!

It was in 2015 that Joe was coming home from a racquetball game when he had to pull over and call 911 for himself… heart attack. He made it through stents, breathing machines, heart pumps, and surgery to stop uncontrolled bleeding. All is somewhat back to normal (I didn’t ask about the racquetball). Joe and Joy are enjoying time with their four grandchildren and their own children’s accomplishments. They write that they cherish these times with family.

As for family, it is important to get names correct. The scribe apologizes to Kathryn, wife of Michael Balale, for the last issue [wrong name].

As for other contacts with classmate, I encourage contacting each. So far I know of two classmates who have passed on, and a ’74 class member was nowhere to be found, according to my humble recordkeeping. The AOG learned in October, 2016 that a classmate died on January 2015. May you take a moment and remember a fond time we had for our classmate Harold Hamm. And may each cherish a moment with another, as I hope you may live long and prosper.

–Joe Brezovic, 228 Senior Circle, Lompoc, CA 93436; (832) 285-4179; launchops74@gmail.com

GBNF: Classmate Charlie Bergman (CS-25) passed away on Dec. 25, 2016, in Deer River, MN. His Air Force career spanned 26 years and included command of the largest bomber squadron in the Air Force. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Sher; son Nicholas; daughter Holly (Lieberman); and granddaughters Chloe and Adeline.

Plunging Into Greatness: Alas, Rick McAlister never made it onto the front of a box of Wheaties… but he was recently selected for induction into USAFA’s Athletic Hall of Fame. Not too shabby for a guy who habitually wore speedos to events and let gravity do most of the work for him. In case some of you have forgotten Rick’s accomplishments in the diving program, or you were too busy sweating over papers and problem sets Members that instructors produced like 48% rabbits at a magic show, Rick won the NCAA championship in 3-meter diving in 1974, becoming the only national champion in the history of the men’s swimming and diving program. He was undefeated Sabre Society in both 1- and 3-meter diving Donors competitions during his career 32 while helping the 1974-75 team to an undefeated dual-meet record. A four-time All American, Rick earned the honor in 1973 for the 3-meter, in 1974 in both 1and 3-meter and in 1975 in 1-meter. He was also a three-time team most valuable athlete. Kudos, Rick. Well done. The induction ceremony will be held at the Colorado Springs Marriott on April 15th.

Songbird Flies Again: Mark Wells recently fulfilled his boyhood dream of aircraft ownership by acquiring the title to a 1978 Cessna Skylane. He christened it “Songbird.” Sound familiar? Like every other red-blooded American boy growing up in the late ’50s and early ’60s with a television that pulled in three channels through a set of rabbit ears sitting on top of the box, Mark spent a fair amount of time on Saturday mornings watching Schuyler “Sky” King” chase ne’er-do-wells in his Cessna 310B. It had a bright yellow paint scheme, but we didn’t know that because we watched the series in living black and white. Many a lad developed aspirations of flying while watching “Sky King and virtually all of us also developed a serious, lifelong crush on Penny. In addition to being a dedicated historian, Mark is also a shameless autograph hound. In 2006 he wrote Gloria Winters (Penny) a fan letter and got an autographed 8x10 photograph in reply. Mark’s wife, Donna, reportedly wasn’t threatened by his correspondence with an 80-year-old girlfriend, but will she be so understanding about the time he’ll be spending in “Songbird” searching for bandits and cattle rustlers to chase? Your humble class scribe personally recommended that he forego the old west notion of bad guys and more profitably spend his flight time patrolling the local golf courses and

1975

dropping bags of flour on slow players. Even if he were caught, what jury would ever convict him for ridding the land of such vermin?

Mark Wells with his new love, “Songbird”.

Here’s a copy of the 8x10 Gloria Winters sent to Mark. Feel free to Photoshop your name in place of Mark’s then hang it in a prominent place to act as a catalyst for you to tell your grandchildren about life before cellphones, reality TV, and Facebook.

Penny, Sky King’s niece and the first crush of an entire generation.

Another One Finds it to the Exit of the Maze: After 20 years active duty in the Air Force and 21 years flying for FedEx, Steve Vreeland hung up his goggles and flying boots on December 31. He and his wife, Sheila, plan to spend the summers in the Sierra Nevada or Rocky Mountains, and the rest of the year they’ll be playing with their two granddaughters in Collierville, TN. Be the first on your block… Dennis Brooks sent in a reminder that Wolfgang, an Austrian artist with whom Dennis has kept in touch, has designed a cardboard model of the Cadet Chapel, and he plans to give free access to download the model.

Dennis translated and enhanced the instructions so they’ll be available in German and English. The planned release for the model is February 2017 (one month after this version of Checkpoints was compiled and a month before it was published) so any classmates who are wondering what to do with their newfound free retirement time can just download the PDF files, print the files on cardstock from any big box store, cut out the parts, color the edges, assemble, and then sit back and fantasize about doing a noon meal formation flyby at the speed of stink to the cheers of approximately 4,000 academically oppressed, but newly inspired, cadets.

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS The Tale of the Justifiably Purloined Ball: The well-traveled Larry Farris and Wayne Willis were on hand at the Arizona Bowl in Tucson when the Falcons defeated the University of South Alabama Jaguars on December 30. During a break in the action they had time for a photo opportunity with Jeff Hackett. The ball Wayne is holding is the game ball from the last time AF played on that field in Tucson, the 1973 AF vs Arizona game. Arizona was ranked #12 that year and was favored to win, but Bill Murray stopped a two-point extra point attempt with 30 seconds left to preserve the upset, 27 to 26.

Larry recovered the onside kick, and Wayne shortly thereafter got his hands on the ball on the sidelines and refused to give it back to what he described as “the puny Arizona manager.” The ball has been in his possession for the last 42 years, and there are no signs that he’ll be giving it up in this lifetime.

tires from Delta 12 Feb, will be moving to Phoenix and hopes to continue his soaring hobby. Fly safe!

Congrats gents!

General Class Stuff: I had quite a bit of email traffic over stemless wine glasses post reunion.

Sent most of the first order home with classmates from the reunion and the second order was primarily mailed out with a few exceptions for folks close to my home drome. Very few damaged in transit and everyone seems to be pleased with the glasses. I have a very small number left (less than 20); if you are interested let me know. Drew Boyd sent a photo of himself on the live action stage at LinkedIn Learning Center.

The Class of ’76 is celebrating their 40th anniversary of their USAFA graduation by supporting two projects: Air Gardens Renovation and the ’76 Wings of Blue Endowment. Please join them in their efforts to support these worthy projects and help give back to USAFA in honor of the Spirit of ’76!

Visit usafa.org/give/76agr and usafa.org/give/76wob

while spending 57 work days on the road in 10 trips.

Good on ya TS! Monty Lee flew Terry down to Tucson for the Arizona Bowl (AF 42 – S. Alabama 21).

Wayne Willis, Jeff Hackett and Larry Farris with “The Ball”.

–Foster Bitton, 75scribealive@gmail.com Fellow ’76ers, Martha AND I hope your holidays were joyous and blessed with good times for your family, and that your New Year has started off well. The Class of 2017 creeps closer and closer to graduation. I think the longest time I spent at USAFA was after spring break until graduation. Seemed like it took eons for that stretch to pass.

Moving up/moving on: Walt Heidmous tells me he is headed for a semi-retirement mode probably as of January.

Says he and Carrie haven’t determined yet where they Members plan to cement some roots but 55% he figures he will have more discretionary time available now. Might be filling time with a hobby or volunteer work, possibly doing some substitute teaching. Good luck to y’all. I Sabre Society can tell you there is life on the Donors retired side. Jim Dolan says he 50 is “moving to the Texas coast, buying a 5th wheel, retiring for the 3rd time! Keep pressing on! Scott Anderson re-

1976

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Terry Petrie sent a note about an article in the last Checkpoints concerning what alums are doing around the world. One item was from an ’80 grad who hiked to a Utah mountain top 1983 crash site of a B-52 and submitted a photo of a small memorial at the site. Our classmate Don Hiebert’s name is on that memorial. Don and Terry were firstie roomies. Sad to remember a fallen classmate but good that we do. Thanks for the note Terry.

Ed Morley pinged me in early December saying he was scheduled for some heart valve surgery in late December. He reported in a couple of times after the surgery and is recovering nicely. Glad to hear that Ed. Also reports he had lunch with J.W. Whitehead in early November. Rich Brozovic welcomed their first great-grandchild, Harmony Leann, on 11 December. Congrats Rich! I cannot recall any classmates reporting a GREAT grandkid before. Another sign of our chronological advancement classmates!

Steve Stout “stumbled across” our graduation program while cleaning out some old boxes. He scanned it and sent it to me. Can’t attach it to my article, so if you are interested, let me know and I will send it to you. Thanks Steve. He and Beth had a great time on a cruise from Quebec through the St. Lawrence and on down to Ft Lauderdale. Jose Santiago says son Stephen got his first choice service selection, Marines ground. OOH-RAH and congrats.

Gary Turnipseed and Dan Price both sent very touching Veterans Day notes. Great notes classmates, thank you. Rich Hanley sent a contact update, thanks Rich. Martha and I had lunch with Tom and Beth Bowie recently; they are both well.

And Martha and I will have spent a few weeks on Maui by the time you get this. Plan to link up with TS Kelso while out there. Will give a report in my next article. TS accomplished some cycling challenges last year to include climbing over half a million feet and riding more than 5,100 miles, all

Jim Boma took a shot at me, something about me being part of a ballet team (see the recent 7258 edition). Told him he may need to watch out for the flap of a shaving-cream-filled large envelope sliding under his door when he pulls an all-nighter!

Charlie Vono had NSTR (Nothing Significant To Report!). Doug Fry will be honored as a veteran by Huerfano County, CO on 28 Feb and 04 March will be Lt. Col. Doug Fry day. Congrats Doug.

Class Gift Update: You should have received notes from the AOG and from Enrique Saa about our class gift campaign. To date we are doing well, but are still short of our dollar goal. We have had somewhat limited participation and one of the campaign goals is to get our participation rate higher. You will see additional notes about our campaign and I encourage you to contribute.

Local artist Rick Broome asked me to tell you he still has framed pictures of Mark Welsh’s Desert Strom F-16. If you are interested, contact me and I can link you with Rick.

Well classmates, again time to stick a fork in it. I had limited photos submitted this time, so you get to see a pic of me and my five granddaughters on my birthday in December.

If you haven’t received an email from me in the past 3-6 months, I do not have your current email address. Please update and send me and the AOG with your current data. Send me your notes, inputs, address updates, suggestions, junk mail, etc. and I will do my best to keep all of you in the loop.

As always, if you are headed to the Springs, let me and the other locals know. Keep flying your flags and let our deployed troops know you have them in your thoughts and prayers. The Spirit of ’76 is STILL alive and well!

Until next time... Beatty.

–Dan Beatty, 12196 Stanley Canyon Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80921; Home: (719) 488-1962; Cell: (719) 338-0276; whrlybrd76@aol.com

1977

Happy New Year and welcome to 40 years after graduation. I will be honest with you and say that on that warm June afternoon when I threw my hat into the air along with the rest of you, I never, ever contemplated what it would be like 40 years later. Nevertheless, as the great Buckaroo Banzai said, “No matter where you go, there you are.” And here we are.

Reunion Notes: there’s been a fair amount of discussion on the Class Facebook page concerning the upcoming reunion. We may have a date by the time you read this, but as of right now we are finagling for some time in the early fall. Tom Toole is leading the charge here Members and has started his assembly 47% of a committee to do some planning. He is ably assisted

by John Buckley (Melinda) and John Herd (Mindy). Please note other members of the reunion committee are Dan Sabre Society Jarka (Pam), Mike Ruggiero Donors (Lisa), Rick Newton (Kathy), 31 Bruce Pennington (Monica) and Bill Brandt (Susan). Thank you gentlemen (and ladies) for stepping up to make the weekend special for us all. Right now the discussions are focusing on whether to schedule the reunion around a home football game, with the

attendant weather and ESPN TV scheduling issues, or do it on an away-game weekend, with no football gathering, but probably cheaper hotel rooms.

Weather is a factor as well; many of us spent a very cold evening watching the game at the 35th reunion, and given that kickoffs last season were delayed until 8 p.m. on occasion, I’m thinking the earlier dates are preferable. Anyway, many thanks Tom, for all your efforts.

I want to remind those of you with an inclination for inclination to start thinking about training for the Incline walk (okay, climb), which I plan to undertake early on the Saturday morning of reunion weekend. I’ve posted a link to the site so you can get a look at what’s involved. Duff Muir (Mary) and I talked about the climb over dinner in late January; Duff has climbed it several times, I have done it once, so you all know it’s possible.

But you should definitely think about training for at least two months on some hills or stair climbers and plan on an hour of uphill slogging. And start thinking about hydration and water tolerance.

Other than that, it will be fun. I promise.

I also need to put a hat tip in to Judy Welde, who has been collecting a master roster for the reunion to ensure we get contact information on, and updates out, to everyone. Thanks Judy, and that’s a great picture of you and Bill on your the Facebook page.

Most of you are aware that Scott Harrod (Nita) passed away last year. Scott left a big imprint on every organization and person he touched and his legacy was memorialized in the dedication of the room at Randolph over the winter. You can catch the details on Facebook, but it’s another testament to a life well-lived.

Mailbag: I’m catching up on some messages that trickled into the mailbox over the last few months. Roger Smith (Patricia) dropped me a line from East Tennessee where he pushes metal for Southwest. He sent the picture below with the following notes:

’77 grad with a ’76 Vette!

The man is standing next to a 1976 Corvette L-82 that he found on eBay. It’s got 37,000 miles, a rare four-speed transmission and is in great shape.

Much like Roger. He is in his uniform on the way to a Chattanooga hospice pinning ceremony where

he participates in a service medal presentation to a patient and his or her family. I cannot imagine a more moving or more appreciated gesture. Well done, sir. I think I should also comment that Roger is fitting into his uniform from 40 years ago without having had it tailored. That’s an accomplishment, however you look at it.

Tom Slattery made a presentation to potential cadets at the Aviation Career Education Academy at NAS Wildwood last summer. Here’s a picture of him doing his thing:

Slats doing his “I fly jets (or used to)” schtick.

Another public service effort by one of our classmates, and another guy who looks like he’s in really good shape. Way to go Slats. This is how you show people what it looks like 40 years later.

I got a really nice series of messages from Joe Alfano (Betty) concerning some of his travels.

Joe and Betty attended Vince Guida (Louise)’s daughter’s wedding at Fort Myer in Arlington and got some good pictures of the crew. Joe and Vince connected up with Joe Muus (Nancy) for this shot:

Louise, Nancy, Betty, Vince, Joe M. and Joe A. at Arlington.

Joe is pushing metal for Delta, Vince levitates for Fed Ex, and Joe is a crew resource for United (and this exhausts my euphemisms for being a pilot).

And for what it’s worth, Vince’s daughter Katie is at GWU med school and her new husband just pulled down a PhD at UVA. More underachieving offspring. And this crew looks to be in pretty good condition, too.

Based on my somewhat spotty memories from the 35th reunion, as well as the pictures you all are sending in, you people are in very fit condition for people as old as we are. I think this Incline walk is Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS not going to be quite the challenge that I thought it was going to be. But we shall see.

Finally, Mouse Neumeister (Lorrie) sent me a message to tell me that he got selected to be the deputy executive director of the Department of Homeland Security Office of Program Accountability, and is now an SES. That is terrific news Mouse, and well-deserved. Mouse also let me know that he is planning on showing up at the 40th reunion driving the last vehicle he drove to Colorado Springs from the East Coast -- a 1976 Dodge van which was his original cadet car. Now, there’s a challenge. Anybody who can make it out there in their original cadet car -- I certainly can’t -- please bring it on and you can enjoy comparing 40-yearold technology with Mouse and others.

News We Can Use: Appearances here from two regulars, Mark Gunzinger (Beth) and Grady Booch (Jan). Mark gets a nice quote in the Los Angeles Times concerning the development costs on the F-35; Mark’s services are frequently in demand as DOD tries to do more with less. There is a great interview with Grady as part of an article in The New Stack, in which he talks about the challenges of coding in an era of rapidly developing machine cognition. Well done, gents.

Close out: That’s it from the ice-free banks of Lake Michigan. Start getting those legs in shape, drink plenty of fluids, and if you’re out at night, wear white.

My very best wishes for longer and warmer days and a great spring break. Be seeing you.

–John “Lou” Michels, Jr., 4107 Harvey Ave., Western Springs, IL 60558; (312) 463-3412; jmichels@lbbslaw.com; loumichels55@gmail. com Greetings ’78ers…

Hope this finds everyone well and recovered from the holidays. Life here in “soggy” So Cal is never boring but especially during the most rain the state has had in at least a decade! When you’ve been in a mega drought for more than five years, you sure don’t complain about that stuff that falls out of the sky… something to be most thankful for.

On to the important stuff! After the December article went to press, one of our classmates went far more than merely “above and beyond.” Jack and Vianne Kucera gave $5,000,000 to the Falcon Stadium renovation project back in November. We all remember what an exceptional football player Jack was during our cadet days. He’s taken that same attitude and quest for making it happen into his life these many years. Pictured from left are Lt. Gen. Johnson, Supt; Vianne, Jack, AD Jim Knowlton and Endowment President/CEO Mark Volcheff.

(See photo at the top of the next column.)

Jack has given generously of his resources and time in the past. He was the primary architect of the “’78 Challenge” back in ’09 for the Holaday Center, was one of the founding directors for the USAFA Endowment (Paul Madera was also one)

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and has been at the forefront of several other USAFA initiatives. Jack and Vianne still live in the Phoenix area running his new venture of Varitec Solutions. He was the CEO and president of Climatec for many years and grew it into one of the premier HVAC companies in the country installing climate systems in large (some very large) buildings. I may not be totally accurate on this but believe he sold the largest division of Climatec (Building Technology Group) and kept the Engineered HVAC Solutions piece starting his Members new company. Not one to just 46% sit around, Jack flies about 300 hours a year in his Pilatus PC-12 (says he believes he’s reached “senior pilot” status!).

Vianne also stays busy volunteering often at a local hospice with Whitney, their NewfoundSabre Society Donors land service and therapy dog.

Son Neil, now 29 and living in 35 San Francisco, owns a recruiting business he started last year and is doing very well. Thanks so much Jack and Vianne for your incredible generosity!

Steve Lofgren sent some great shots of CS-31 ’78ers on an Alaskan cruise last May. The title of the cruise was “I’m too sexa(genarian) for my shirt.” The group has done a Caribbean cruise in the past and this seemed like the logical follow-on.

First shot is on the main deck during formal night.

From left are Karl (Ole) and Terry Olsen, Jeff and Kris Koury, Mack and Barb McCollum, Eric and Cindy Brown, Wayne and Theresa Scheller, Ernie and Marie St Gelais, Bob and Sally Barton, Rande and Karen Read, and Steve and Jackie Lofgren.

Next shot is the gang outside in their unique sweatshirts (red of course) with the squadron decal on the left and their unique design on the back. I don’t have room unfortunately this quarter for a close-up of the design but will include it in the June article.

Steve noted that there were “four new hips and four new knees in the group”… season of life. Steve was one of the new knees (second one) and is about to retire as the assistant director in the Housing and Research Education Department at UNC Chapel Hill. He was a career civil engineer and ROTC commander while in the AF. Mack McCollum has been flying for American (777 to Europe, Asia, S. America and Hawaii) for several years and does some legal work (was an attorney before American) once in a while.

Don Alston is living in Cheyenne, WY, and started his own strategic consulting business in 2012. He retired as a two-star in 2012 staying in Cheyenne after commanding 20th AF and was the A10 on the Air Staff prior to that.

That finishes up another quarter gents—wish I had more info to share (warning: standard whining for information next sentence). As always, my sincere thanks to everyone who sent in pics and info and for those of you who haven’t yet, please send an update on what you’ve been up to lately (or since graduation!). Also, for those who have not joined our “’78 is Great” LinkedIn group, please consider doing so. Drop me a line and let me know you’ve requested membership so I can approve you.

Hope everyone has a blessed Spring. ’78 is Great!

–Bob Kay, 40411 Tesoro Lane, Palmdale, CA 93551; Home: (661) 274-2201; Cell: (661) 9741417; robert.kay78@gmail.com Wow – 2017 has started off with a blast -- both weather and politics -- the snow is fantastic in Colorado (I hear) so come on out!

I’m sorry to have to start by passing on some sad news, but Keith Brandin (CS-06) passed away last November of heart failure brought on by a combination of cancer and diabetes. Please let us all take a minute to give our prayers to his wife, Linda, and his family and all of the 43 classmates that are Gone but not Forgotten.

Jeff Moore did such a great job last article that no one had any huge news, so this installment is full of short updates from across our class.

Random Updates (in Alpha Order): Rick Bennet wrote to say he had the privilege of “patching” his son as his graduation at Test Pilot School a short 30 years (to the class) after he graduated from TPS. Bill Boyd wrote that his son is a Firstie at the

1979

Zoo. Dave Culp is living in Las Vegas flying for United Airlines out of LAX. Dave Denton wrote to say that he is joining the leisure life after 21 years at Northrop Grumman. Bill Doyle has started a new program manager job with Sierra Nevada Corporation building software for the Navy. Tom Fernandez accepted a job flying Pilatus PC-12s out of Denver (just for the fun of it). Mark Giglio wrote from Sheppard where he is a T-6 simulator and academics instructor. He saw both Clyde Spencer’s and Jim White’s sons Members going through the program – If 46% anyone has interest in an instructor job, reach out to Mark – they are looking.

Jeff Gowen is living in Fayetteville, NC, and working as the director of Business Development for Osprey Sabre Society Global Solutions. He is also Donors on the faculty of Campbell 30 University, at its Fort Bragg Center. Jim Grady said that he and Joey Hackbarth are both upgrading to the A350 at Delta and were simulator partners. Chris Jacobson wrote that he’s an architect for AF DCGS at Langley, but more importantly he plays the fiddle for the Mason Brown and the Shiners band, if anyone needs a honky-tonk country band for a party. Brian Koechel continues to “host” coffee in Northern Virginia on Saturday mornings at 7:30 a.m. If you are going to be near D.C., plan to stop by and share some stories. Mark Leuthold is working as a church administrator. Bruce Lujan wrote that he’s living in Albuquerque with his wife, Becky.

On to the second half of the alphabet: Jeff McChesney wrote that he and Gary Harris completed and competed in the Ron Fellows Performance Driving School in Pahrump, NV. (Jeff claims he won.) Jeff Moore has been appointed as the executive director of the 3,700-member Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association that works to honor all U.S. military aircrew members. Jeff is also still flying for UPS. Mark Owen and his wife, Sharon, traded the mountains of Colorado for the mountains of California (we all know Rocky Mountain High is the best). They are running a science-based youth learning program in the Sierras. Gary Roeder is shortly retiring from FedEx. Jim Rogers wrote to say the he and his wife are snowbirding between Idaho and Las Vegas. Roger Shell and Ken Impellizzeri are flying for Delta. Mike

VanLaan continues to fly for UPS. Bud Vasquez is hosting Robin Rand in Massachusetts in May for AFCEA. Mike Weiland has moved to Hong Kong and continues to fly for FedEx. Guy Willis said that he and Dennis Hilley are both living in Niceville, FL. Jim Winters wrote from Senegal West Africa to let us know that he is continuing to work with groups such as Wycliffe Bible Translators to help make scripture available to all.

Group Gatherings: Bill Gregory wrote inviting everyone down to Arizona for high-g thrill rides in the Extra-300L. He’d be happy to see how you do pulling +9.8G and -4.6G! He also let me know that Bob Edmonds has a new role at Elbit Systems building high performance aeronautic systems.

Here is a picture Bill sent from the Arizona Bowl party at Paul Miller’s place.

Arizona Bowl gathering in Colorado Springs.

From left are Jim Shumate, Rod McNeil, Ed Browne, Greg Roman and Neil Schoon.

We also try to get together a few times a year for a dinner and include our better halves. For our December/Christmas dinner we had 17 classmates all in one place. (See photo at lower left of page.)

Lastly, Checkpoints will be taken next by Mike Watson - michaelwatson@cox.net and remember to update your email addresses and contact information at http://www.proto6.com/79mail.

–Geoff Mulligan, 2175 Cloverdale Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80920; (719) 593-2992; geoff@mulligan.com

From left are Steve Merriam, Clyde Spencer, John Hammer, Paul Miller and Bill Gregory.

Ratz Reunionz: From left are Mark Leuthold, Roger Shell, Mike VanLaan and Ken Impellizzeri.

Here in Colorado Springs, we continue to have a great group that gets together Saturday mornings (starting at 8 a.m.) with regulars including: Randy Helms, Rich Peters (who is the CIO for the Pike Peak Library District), “Omar” Bradley, and Mark Pimentel (who knows all things Apple). So if you’re going to be in town Saturday morning, plan to stop by for coffee. Next is a picture of the group that gathered at Greg Roman’s place – Rhinos – for the Arizona Bowl.

A mini Christmas reunion!

1980

First, thanks to those of you who sent me your Christmas/ holiday letter—or just a short update of any kind. It makes my job much easier. I even had some leftovers to share in future, leaner times. I really enjoy filling-in our class on some of the relevant happenings in your lives, so let’s

get to it!

Triple Play. Phil Collins proudly shares, “My daughter, Sarah, just graduated UPT at Columbus AFB and will be flying EC-130s. She becomes the third generation of Collins pilots to serve in the USAF: My dad (who also flew C-130s), myself, and my daughter. My dad gave me his first set of pilot wings when I graduated UPT. They were sterling silver back in those days. I passed them on to my daughter on this day.”

Three generations of Collins pilots.

Victory Tour. “Tim Morrisroe, Kent Johnson and I [Mark Reidinger] met up at West Point the weekend of Nov 4-6 to attend the USAFA/USMA football game, visit the area, including the campus, Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS and just hang out together. We had a great time, made all the more so by our victory over Army and securing of the CIC Trophy. We were squadron mates in CS-31 and have been able to stay in touch and get together periodically over the many years since graduation.”

Tres Amigos: Kent, Mark and Tim. Mark included some events from 2016. During the academic year, his life “is taken up by musical pursuits: voice lessons (with recitals), children’s choir, church choir (and brass ensemble), trombone lessons, concert band, and jazz band. This year, our children’s choir put on its third biblical musical, The Old Testament Fast Forward.” He put 8,000 miles on his SUV over the summer, to include a kind of pilgrimage hike up a Utah mountain, where Matt Cervenak died in a B-52 crash in 1983 (see December issue, pg. 10). Less sobering trips included Las Vegas, to see Chicago play; his 40th high school reunion; and Mackinac Island, for his niece’s wedding, where he “was in charge of the reception cigar bar, which was a big hit—everybody has to be good at something!”

“Uniform is: parkas, accessories . . .” Marianne (Owens) LaRivee shared, “At the 12 Nov 2016 CSU football game, USAFA recognized 40 years of women at the Academy, and asked several of us to go on the field to represent our class. Attached is a photo of eight’80’s Ladies, some sporting cadet parkas, carrying signs—in case people didn’t know who we were. Yet again, the sacrifice of the men was overlooked—they had to stay in the warm press box, drinking beer.”

Classy ladies: Gail (Benjamin) Colvin, Bonnie (Schafer) Schwartz, Allene (Dowden) Saleck, Kathy (Utley) Kornahrens, Marianne (Owens) LaRivee, Lorrie (Morse) Kresge, Tanya (Senz) Regan, and Janet (Libby) Wolfenbarger.

Where are they now? In December, the president announced appointments to some key administrative posts, one of which was a slot on the USAFA Board of Visitors. It was our own Linda (Garcia) Cubero. Linda has recently been a War126 · usafa.org

riors to Work specialist at the Wounded Warrior Project. Before that, she was president and owner of Falcon Cash Investors.

Alvin Sears observes, “in the ‘What are the Odds?’ department, 36 years after graduation, a couple of military careers behind us, Brian Marshall and I wind up working in the same building for GSA (General Services Administration) at 18th and F in DC. We had a nice mini reunion lunch, both trying to calculate the odds,” too busy catching up to send pictorial evidence.

“I [Rod Wilkinson] try to send an update every 10-15 years, so it’s time again! After working in the Washington, D.C. area for 26 years, I finally realized I could have more fun elsewhere. Yvonne and I retired in January 2016 and moved to Niceville, FL—next to Eglin AFB. The coastline here is beautiful, everyone is exceptionally friendly, and traffic away from the beaches is never a problem. It’s good to be back in an Air Force community, too!

We spent the entire year making repairs and improvements to the home we bought, setting up my workshop, and ‘tweaking’ my first riding lawnmower Members (which easily won a race against 52% the neighbor). I hope some of our classmates will be able to visit. I finally have time to enjoy life and catch up on neglected relationships! Oh, Andy Stanaski (Cary, NC) bought an airplane and is having a blast Sabre Society doing formation fly-bys at all Donors sorts of events.”

31 Seems like buying airplanes is a trend: George (Rox Ann) Ryan informs us, “My wife and I became the proud owners of a 1979 Piper Archer II. Only 250 hours on the engine, so a great selling point. We’ve had some nice day trips so far; planning some excursions for summer.” George is adding FAA Ground School as an honors course at his AFJROTC unit and hopes to add Civil Air Patrol orientation flights as well.

Tom (Ann) Williams is back in Auburn, AL: “My wife and I and 13-year-old daughter returned from seven years living in China last June. My last job was teaching high school humanities, philosophy, and Bible classes at an international school. Trying to learn the Chinese language at age 50 was a clear reminder of why I studied engineering! My eldest daughter (of four) was married in June— two down, two to go. Hard to believe that I am the father of a teenager again! I am still on staff with The Navigators (since 1988) and considering various options for the future.”

Smiles. This is the time of year when I present some of Dean (Carla) Eisberg’s, Things Heard Around the House this Year. Carla’s Quilt Cache store is thriving and Dean is “still the nation’s frontline defense; fighting the wars on drugs, terrorism, poverty, and bilingualism while fostering trade and presenting a welcoming smile to the public.

Kim was accepted by the Public Health Service to receive an appointment as a commissioned officer working in civil engineering. She’s working on the

same waste water treatment systems, in the same remote Alaskan villages, with the same people, but now she gets saluted when she goes on the military base to use the gym.” Alaska ANG Lieutenant Kelly graduated from UPT and is at Kirkland AFB learning the HC-130J; Jeff is still learning the SERE Specialist trade; Jesse is in his first year of college and “somehow managed to ‘trip on his underwear’ while standing up after using the toilet. He fell backwards, ripping off the toilet paper dispenser, and tearing two holes in the wall. Upon seeing the damage and hearing the tale, Dean and Carla couldn’t stop laughing. Jesse’s only response was: ‘You can’t mention this in the Christmas letter.’”

Dean: “Why do you want to work overtime on a Saturday when the weather is so nice?” Coworker: “I do it for the children . . . so I don’t have to listen to them fighting all day.” Dean: “When I was 17, ‘Hell’s Half Acre’ was an obstacle course at the Academy.

Today, it’s the lawn I have to mow every week.”

That’s a wrap. Stay optimistic and be safe out there! Don –Don Myers, P.O. Box 153, Tyrone, GA 302900153; (770) 631-1429; DMyers80@hotmail. com; FB group: “USAFA Class of 1980”; Class Website: www.usafa80.org I still can’t believe our reunion came and went! It always renews friendships and distorts (embellishes) memories, too. AF rebounded nicely from the tough loss our reunion weekend to win six straight and a bowl game. My address below is effective 1 April!

Class News: Heard from Kelvin Manning (my old friend from our 2Lt days at Eglin) and he is still plugging along at the Kennedy Space Center as the associate director. Kelvin served on the astronaut selection board for his second time leading up to our reunion. He said with a daughter in sixth grade and a son in ninth, he will have to work forever. Amy Markert is doing well in Sacramento, but moving to Arizona soon. She, Silvi and Sandra have been (unsuccessfully) trying to get together post-reunion.

All have been traveling quite a bit to complicate matters. Dave Huff is changing from domestic S-80 Members check airman to international 51% B787 check airman with American. He is flying to China and South America now with flights to Europe coming soon. He said he has about four more years until retirement. Dave’s wife, Paulette, teaches piano and volunteers.

Sabre Society Donors Both of their sons are out and on 16 their own. I got an email from long lost Greg Tovrea! Greg is a contract F-16 instructor pilot at Misawa, Japan. Jean and Laura Floyd were fortunate enough to sit in the owner’s box in Seattle for the Atlanta-Seattle game this Fall. They had to dress appropriately, of course. Jean is working for the owner, Paul Allen.

1981

’81–Second to None!

We enjoyed celebrating with many of you at our recent Reunion! Cadets who we sent to Nepal and the Cambodia trip shared what the experience meant to them personally and professionally. Leadership, teamwork, understanding diversity and service were the common themes.

We continue to encourage everyone in our class to support the Class of 1981 International Cultural Immersion Program Fund endowment. These programs give cadets an opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge and experience with varied and diverse cultures, helping them build the skills they will need as future uniformed officers and civilian leaders to succeed in today’s global environment.

Our ’81 Class has raised over $311K toward our $1M goal to support this effort to date. We are asking all classmates to consider committing to a small monthly gift over the next five years.

in the Arizona Bowl. Gregg sees Scott Alexander at the A-10 Training Squadron. Gregg travels quite a bit and sees Chet Nowak (still with Raytheon) at the airport. He used to see Lionel Trujillo (FedEx), but Lionel has moved to Las Cruses, NM. Gregg along with many other AF fans was at the bowl game in December. Allen Schmid’s wife was kind enough to take pictures. The Wing Commander (a grad) at Davis-Monthan AFB told the base to be at the game (alternate work location)! Steve Thalmann emailed Gregg about the game not realizing he and Gregg were classmates – awkward! Actually, they had a good laugh about it. Gregg recently had dinner with his Doolie roommate, Bill Napolitano, while in Hampton. I was chatting with Frank Cheeseman at a recent AF basketball game and his son has an appointment to the Coast Guard Academy and is leaning heavily toward attending. Also, I recently heard from the kindest man in our class, Eric Garvin, expressing excitement for my wife and I as we build our “final” home near Monument, CO! (Only eight minutes from the North Gate!) Eric and Anna live in Palm Coast, FL in their “final” home.

Match Challenge Update!

Our ’81 class voted to allocate $30,000 out of our class discretionary fund to the ’81 Endowment, on a dollar for dollar match.

THANK YOU to all those who helped rise to the challenge!

Please continue to spread the word to give! http://usafa81endowment.com

Laura and Jean Floyd in the Seattle owner’s box.

Gregg Montijo sent me a huge update from the great state of Arizona and site of a big AF victory

Gregg Montijo, Michelle and Allen Schmid at the Arizona Bowl.

In the truest of Falcon brotherhood, 4th squadron ’81ers held a mini-reunion for our classmate, Rigo Santiago, in Katy, TX. Rigo was unable to attend our October 35th reunion as he is battling pancreatic/liver cancer. This past January, 10 ’81ers and spouses traveled to Texas to enjoy a weekend that included go-karts, laser tag, putt-putt golf, a formal dinner and church with Rigo and his family. See photo below. (Dean Carlson, Marvin Fisher, Eric Garvin, Tim Hawes, Rick Duchene, Dean Latas, Tom Masiello, Darren McKnight, Michael McNerney, and Sean Murphy attended.) Their AOC firstie year, Ken Roth, and three-degree year, Russ Plank, also attended!

Darren said the event was a blessing for all. They decided every five years is just not good enough.

(Way to go Fightin’ Fourth!)

Always great hearing from all of you! Get and stay connected! Our USAFA Class of 1981 Facebook page now has 190 members. Keep the emails and pictures coming. It is funny for a lot of us that our memories of the Falcon football team are so tied to the years we were here and it was rough with only nine wins over four years, but you realize AF has been quite good for many, many years. Nine bowls in the last 10 years and many before that. Ask Boise State which has lost three years in a row to AF. Go Falcons! ’81 Second to none!

–Rich Trentman, 17223 Carriage Horse Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921; Work: (719) 4527708; Cell: (719) 640-9586; Facebook: USAFA Class of 1981; rtrentman@falconbroadband. net; Class Website: www.usafa81.com

1982

Hi Folks, Sadly, I’m leading off with bad news, which many of you may have already heard. Andy Raines passed away suddenly in late November. Ralinda Gregor was kind enough to let me know right away. Andy had a long, distinguished flying career while on active duty, with the Kentucky Air National Guard, and finally as a captain at UPS. He and Sheila had been married 31 years and had eight children and one grandchild. I know you’ll keep Sheila and the rest of Andy’s family in your thoughts and prayers.

On a decidedly happier note, and literally as I was getting ready to hit “send” on this article, I learned that the president intends to nominate our classmate and former Congresswoman Heather Wilson as the next SECAF! That’s great news for Members both Heather and our Air Force.

46% Congratulations, Heather!

Andy’s passing reminded of our other GBNF brethren, and that makes me think of happier times like class reunions.

Can you believe we’re rapidly approaching our 35th? I’ve Sabre Society Donors reviewed the math over and over, and although I struggled 25 with triple integrals and matrices, I’m pretty good at addition and subtraction.

There’s no denying that 2017 – 1982 = 35, despite the “new math”. So here we are!

Although we don’t have reunion dates yet, I’m sure we will by the time you read this. So if you don’t know what they are, wander over to www. usafa82.org and it’ll be obvious. That’s because we have a new webmaster (Alex Abuyuan) who

CS-04 mini-reunion for Rigo.

Checkpoints · December 2016

CLASS NEWS was kind enough to take over for me earlier this year. Alex did a great job completely revamping the site both in style and content. In addition to using the website to help our class connect, it’s our reunion committee’s primary vehicle to disseminate reunion-related news and plans. Check it out – you’ll be glad you did.

Speaking of the reunion committee, we’ve been very active for several months now under the able leadership of Deb and Miles Kirkhuff. They volunteered to lead the charge back in mid-2016, recruiting volunteers and setting up various subcommittees and chairs. If you’d like to know who’s doing what, go to https://www.usafa82.org/reunioncommittee and see. You’ll also find a section there with periodic reunion news and planning updates.

Another great way to stay informed is to subscribe to the ’82 Contact List, a mailing list that we’re using to distribute reunion info and other news of interest to our class and friends. My goal is to get good physical and email addresses for everyone in the class, including those who started with us but did not graduate with us. As of tonight, I’ve got just over 600 email addresses on the list. Some are duplicates (those who signed up with more than one email address), but I’d estimate there are at least 570 unique individuals represented. Considering we graduated 842, that’s a pretty good start. But there are around 280 more grads that I know we’re missing, and many, many more who started but did not graduate. So please help me get the word out, get everyone on the list and keep everyone informed. Go to http://eepurl.com/celkl1 to sign up if you’ve not already done so. Alex and I will put an extract of the list (names and email addresses only) on a password-protected section of the website so that you can download it for reference.

Okay, on to your news! In October, Ellen and I traveled to D.C. to help Lt. Gen. Bob Otto celebrate his retirement after 34 years of active duty. Boy, was it a great time! Bob, Chris and staff put on a fabulous and fun retirement dinner at the Bolling club that was fantastically well-attended. I’ve never before seen so many stars in one room.

Current CSAF and “honorary member of the Class of ’82” (he hates it when I say that…) Gen. Dave “Fingers” Goldfein (’83) was there. Fingers also officiated at the retirement ceremony the next day.

Another ’83 grad, Maj. Gen. Gary Harencak was the emcee for the dinner and had everyone in stitches from the opening remarks until the very end. The guest list was a veritable who’s-who of former and

current USAF leadership, including about 12-15 of our classmates.

Although it was like herding cats, we managed to gather most of the Redtags present for a group hug.

From left are Marc Arrendale, Mike Sinisi, Gordy Dexter, Art Crain, Greg Tate, Bob Otto, Doc Kimminau, Dan Hargrove, Brian Canino, Al Jarrell, Bob Nissen, Jim Ratti, and Greg Masters. Gerry Sohan was there but missed the picture. I’m sure there were others who I missed mentioning, so I beg forgiveness. Collect your beer at the reunion!

I got a nice Christmas letter from Steve Vogt.

Steve’s oldest son, Mark, was married in January, and eldest daughter, Steph, will soon make Steve and Gina grandparents. Steve and Gina celebrated their 30th anniversary with a trip to Melbourne to watch the Australian Open. The highlight for Gina was spending some quality time visiting with tennis megastar Rod Laver.

Eddie McAllister dropped a line from Eglin where he’s a support contractor in the AF Research Lab’s Munitions Directorate. Eddie has three daughters. One’s a senior at Northeastern in Boston (international affairs), one is at George Washington University in DC (also international affairs), and one is a 6th grader (keeping Eddie and Jeanette young). Middle daughter Regan is the networking chair for her sorority, Delta Phi Epsilon.

DPE is a professional sorority dedicated to promoting leadership of women in international affairs. In November, they hosted a military women’s forum and two of our classmates graciously agreed to participate. Cathy McClain and Sharon Dunbar were both big hits with the young ladies.

The C-Springs Alumni Association quasi-annual board meeting.

Lastly, I got this cool yet slightly disturbing picture from Gary Weber just minutes before deadline. This august group of C-Springs-area residents gathered at Tom LaValley’s place to watch the playoffs prior to the Super Bowl. In the back from left are Dean Mills, Tom LaValley, Rob Peterson, Ted Brewer, Steve Topper, Paul Franz and Steve Tolle. Front: Lynn Ellen Vergis, Gary Weber and Mike Eayrs.

Well, I’m out of space, so that’s all for now. Be sure to sign up for the mailing list, and keep checking the website for reunion dates and plans! Until next time, Ratman.

–Jim Ratti, 2860 Arbor Pointe Drive, Middletown, OH 45042; (937)760-2333; rattijm@mindspring. com

Cathy McClain and Sharon Dunbar mentoring the next generation.

Here we see, from left, Sharon, Regan and Cathy. Sharon retired as commander, AF District

Gate crashers at Bob Otto’s retirement ceremony.

128 · usafa.org

of Washington and is now VP of Human Resources, Internal Communications and Community Engagement at General Dynamics Mission Systems in Fairfax, VA. Husband Doug is a 737 captain with American and they have a son who’s an Army captain. Their daughter is a media/entertainment attorney at Warner Brothers in Burbank, CA. Cathy says she’s “semi-retired” but don’t be fooled. She’s a certified EMT near Wichita, takes interior design classes, and teaches online classes and leadership classes. Her daughters are both sorority girls at U. of Kansas. One graduates in December with finance and organizational management degrees and the other will graduate in May with her doctor of pharmacy. Her son is a junior studying poli sci. Eddie related how proud he is to have such awesome classmates (I agree!), and how he got “max cool points” from Regan, who was amazed Dad has such cool friends!

Happy New Year! I think most of you will agree that we should be happy that 2016 is gone and 2017 has arrived. 2016 started okay but then in March we lost two great friends in Kevin Carreno and Lou Caporicci. And then we all had to deal with the presidential campaign as another downer. But it ended, in my opinion only, great for West Virginia (guns, coal, and fracking gas), good for the country and great for our military. But then we lost another classmate, as Rich Fullerton, our top grad, passed away from an enlarged heart. Rich and wife, Brenda, remained in the Springs following Rich’s military retirement as head of the Economics Department. I would like to personally thank Court

1983

Collier (AA-777 FO-DFW) for keeping us updated on the events of Rich’s funeral at the AFA Chapel.

The Chapel was packed and well attended by our class. Dave Asselin, Phil Austin, Rick Goddard, Dana Born, Tamara Rank, Rick Ragaller, Geoff Ball and others represented our class. I’d also like to thank Court for representing our class on the AOG Senate. Representing our class is goal #1. Great job, Court! Now that we’re into 2017, I can say it started pretty well. Julie and I were watching the inauguration and couldn’t help noticing that sitting right behind VP Cheney was our very own Gen. Dave “Fingers” Goldfein, USAF Members Chief of Staff. Dave you looked 47% good and we’re all very proud to call you “our classmate”!

I’ll publish Dave’s email and cell number in the next article since he’s got nothing going on!! Congrats to Darryl Roberson as he is currently the Sabre Society AETC/CC! Donors Now for the Christmas card 25 mail bag. Pete and Gerry Mccaffrey wrote from just about everywhere. It seems they were all over the world as they cruised the Baltic States for 28 days, the Caribbean for seven and drove their RV around Florida. But the highlight had to have been when Pete pinned a Bronze Star w/Valor Medal on his son Michael. Michael earned this award for his actions on the battlefield in the Do Ab Valley, Afghanistan in 2011. Michael wasn’t just there, he was putting his rear on the line to call in support.

Basically he had a direct role in saving the lives of more than 64 coalition forces who were surrounded by more than 400 Taliban insurgents.

A proud McCaffrey family.

Pictured for the presentation are daughter Carmen, granddaughter Christina, Michael, Pete and Gerry. Good job Michael and congrats from our class. Mike and Edith Padilla wrote from Tennessee where Mike is retired from FedEx. Their son Michael and fiancé Summer both graduated from the Academy this past summer and are heading to pilot training. Congrats guys and good luck.

Leslee (Forsberg) and Chris Washer (’82) wrote from Whitefish, MT, where in October their son Jacob married a beautiful young lady, Emma. Great photo, I’ll pass it on to the next scribe.

Fellow Preppie and UPT classmate George Ces-

Football team mini-reunion at the AF-Navy game. pedes writes from the Miami area where he is finally back in the left seat of the B-767 after being displaced to the Airbus. George was my grateful host while I went through B-787 ground school in Miami. The photo shows a proud dad with his son Brandon and girlfriend Laura who are both USNA-2014 and both are MH-60S pilots. On George’s left arm is a girl who is way too good for him, Sandy Manzari.

George, Sandy, Laura and Brandon Cespedes – looking good.

George met up with another Preppie/UPT mate Frank Marrero while on a SFO layover. Frank is currently a single dad and doing a great job in raising his son Ethan. Frank flies the 747 for United.

My Christmas was finally complete a couple of weeks ago when we received the much anticipated Jon “Iron Man” and Brenda Duresky family letter.

Good news though, it was only two pages, singlespaced and he used the smallest print allowed by law. Jon and Brenda now call Buford, GA, home.

It’s a nice town to the northeast of Atlanta. Jon was very sympathetic to my depression this past Sunday as his Falcons manhandled the Packers and my Steelers tried the same zone defense that hasn’t worked forever against the Patriots. It was very painful. So I’m happy for you Jon. The reason for Jon’s tardy letter was that he was awaiting the arrival of his first granddaughter, Sansa. Their son Jeffrey and wife, Jaya, welcomed their first child on 1 Nov. and were able to include her in the family Christmas photo card. Jon, by the way, is doing great and back to his 21 straight-arm pull-up status. Their doors are always open and if you’re in the need of a CrossFit workout with an Appalachian Trail hike, Jon’s your man. Thanks for the update Jon!!

Finally, I got a plethora of photos from Ricard and Lisa Smith from the ’83 football reunion during the AF-Navy game. Pictured are Mark Jacksonlawyer in the Seattle area, Mike Vaughn-works for Boeing in Charleston, SC, Ted Sandquist (’84), Denny Moore-captain at Delta, Hugh-Bob Funkcaptain at FedEx, Greg Egan-VP at NCR Corp., Kevin Ewing-math teacher in the Springs area, Konda Sullivan-GS civilian working for the Army around the Norfolk area, Ricard Smith-working for CAE (building simulators) in Tampa, Dave Uzellworks for Boeing around DC, DAVE Timm-working in small business disaster response and Donald Smith-captain at FedEx. Dave Schreck was in all the other photos except this one, sorry. I just used the one with the most classmates in it. Dave is a VP at Rockwell Collins.

I gotta say guys that I’m impressed at what everyone is doing. We do have a pretty awesome class. Thanks for all the great memories!

Just a quick shout out to Brian Bishop who was running for the AOG Board of Directors. Brian, I hope you won and I apologize that we did not get this into the last article. Thank you for volunteering to serve.

I think it’s time for me to find another scribe from somewhere out in the airline world. I seem to be in a rut. I would like to find a United or Delta pilot to help out. I’ve been talking about the same folks for a while and they are either Christmas carders or AA pilots. If someone is interested please contact me. Your article would not be due until January 2018.

Speaking of scribes, our next one will be Sue Ross. Please contact her at sueross@sierraconsulting.org. You can also send your info and photos to any of the other scribes. Thank you to Stu Pope and Wade Wheeler. You three make this an easy task and you all do a great job! Take care and God bless, Ray. -Ray Blust, 7 Highland Park, Wheeling, VW 26003; Home: (304) 242-7183; Cell: (304) 281-1621; rjmablust@comcast.net; rayblust422@gmail.com

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS What a class! Really, been running into ’84 all over the place.

I’ve seen Marty Louthan more in the past quarter than I ever did at noon meals! Marty and I were stuck up in Denver and rented a car together back to the Springs.

We were both able to get home a little sooner than if we waited for the next flight. That same day, I was riding on Captain Jay Charamella’s 737 from Miami to Denver. It is truly amazing riding seven miles in the air, texting and checking in with classmates, passing on and receiving info. Lately, I was also able to have lunch with Ray Miller and a couple of drinks with the Facebook king Bob Perry.

Generally Speaking: L. Gen. Jeff Lofgren, the deputy chief of staff, Capability Development, HQ Supreme Allied Command Transformation at Norfolk, VA, checked in from the only NATO HQ in the USA. If anyone is in the Members Norfolk area, feel free to drop 42% him a line to have coffee the NATO way! Brig. Gen. Jimmy Mackey is planning his retirement, on July 23rd, which will mark exactly 38 years from the start of Prep School at USAFA. He reports Bobby Sullivan (our Sabre Society Donors Sully) is a captain at UPS, living in Louisville, Bruce “Ummy” 24 Umland is a captain with Delta, the long lost JT Yelle is a captain with Southwest, and we think he is done trying to emulate the “eight is enough” sitcom, with seven (?) kids. Gary Annis is also with Delta and, after beating cancer, he rides bikes raising money to kick the big C to the curb. Thanks for the update, Jimmy. I am sure Trina, Jossellyn and Dylan are proud of the old man.

Great recognition, humble lady: Tiina Mundy (Landschultz) received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine in November. It’s the highest award given by the Governor of North Carolina. It was a total surprise and shock to her. She still can’t believe it. So, I looked up this award and saw that previous winners of the award were people like Oprah, Richard Petty, Andy Griffith, Danny Glover, and a guy who really wanted to come to the Air Force Academy at one point, Michael Jordan. We’re proud of you Tiina!

Karl Alvarez had a great USAFA experience this fall. The photo was taken at the fall commencement dinner for the Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government Senior Executive Fellows (SEF) program. The Fellows came from across the United States and various international governments. Among this august group were three USAFA grads.

The photo shows him and BG (USAF retired) Dana Born ‘83. DJ Junio ‘86 and Chris Blasy ‘89 were the other two. Dana is the faculty chair for the Senior Executive Fellows program which is a month-long, intensive course in authentic leader-

1984

130 · usafa.org

ship, persuasion, decision making, negotiation, and team-building. The class included two West Pointers and a USNA grad. The West Point dean, BG (USAF, retired) Allison Hickey ‘80, and David Gergen all addressed the class to share their experiences. It’s great to see our alma mater so well represented!

Karl Alvarez with Dana Born ’83.

Bob McDonnell is starting his 25th winter at Vail working for Vail Mountain in lift maintenance.

Look him up if you’re ever in Vail. He’d love to take a few runs with other ’84 classmates. They’ve got great snow right now!

A few things have happened to the Delise Rohret (McFarlane) clan since her last update. In an effort to get away from it all and relive some of her husband Dave’s childhood memories of hunting and trapping in the wilds of Iowa, Dave and she commissioned the building of a small 1860s-era cabin (with a few modern upgrades) on 20-plus acres of ranchland in the Texas Hill Country. They call their little piece of heaven Rohret Ranch, aka PSL (Peace, Serenity and Love) Ranch. They love being surrounded by nature… occasionally disturbing a flock of wild turkeys, watching the quail scurry across a clearing one at a time, seeing a snake slowly slither across the rocky road, glimpsing a jackrabbit or grey fox dart into the brush, or a deer attempting suicide in front of their car.

Daughter Sasha spent a month last summer working at a museum in France for a leading expert in zooarchaeology and returned to Egypt in the fall, where she got a chance to do more sightseeing and ran the zooarchaeological portion of the dig as a paid staff member! Daughter Shari earned her Cavern Diving Certification in Florida over spring break, and did sightseeing and cenote diving in Mexico last summer. Shari spent the remainder of the summer working as a paid staff member at the San Antonio Aquarium.

Mike Cornejo sent in this picture of him and Rob Polumbo fishing in Florida. The only “rough” part could have been the waves. (See photo at the top of the next column.)

Ok, sports fans, and all of ’84, I hope you voted for our own Mike “Moses” Malone for AOG Board.

As you all should have noticed, the class has not been asked for any class gifts, or any real involvement from the Academy, AOG, or athletics for the past 13 years. Our last project was the highlysuccessful entry project to the cemetery. I am

Mike Cornejo and Rob Polumbo working with the athletic director, Jim Knowlton, USMA ’82, on a couple of projects that, I feel, will showcase our class not only financially, but also lead the way for future classes. Please pass on any thoughts, goals or projects you feel important to me at any time.

By the way, as I write this, there are two years 270 days until our 35th reunion. But there are only 215 days until 2017 Homecoming. Please consider coming out, and always feel free to call me whenever you are in town. Bob is growing tired of my jokes. Have a great year. Jens –Mike Jensen, 6547 N. Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80918; (719) 338-3570; Web Page: www.usafa84.com; Email: USAFA1984@gmail. com; Facebook: USAF Academy 1984; Twitter: @ USAFA84 Greetings ’85ers!!

Welcome back from what has proven to be an exciting couple of months. Our Falcons reclaimed the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, won the Arizona Bowl game against South Alabama, and have a brand new helmet design reminiscent of aircraft nose art. And, as I am writing this article, we have a new boss being sworn in as Commander-inChief. We wish President Trump the best of luck as he leads our military and guides our country for at least the next four years. Go #45!

Last issue, Digger Wells provided updates on the current locations and occupations of many of our classmates he stays in touch with. Here is the remainder of the list he provided: Dave “Humbie” Humblet is retired, and lives in Madison, WI. Terrance “T” Linehan resides in West Chester, NY and works for Pfizer and is a diehard Mets fan. Mike Maloney lives in Flower Mound, TX and flies for American. Digger pointed out that all the pilots listed as flying for American in Texas all reside within approximately 15 minutes of DFW airport. Jerry Parish resides in Salt Lake City, UT, and is believed to be retired. Dewey Parker runs a consulting firm, and resides in Colorado. Bob “Pic”

1985

and doing plenty of video tele-conferences. They are another great example as to the quality of our USAFA Class

Pickrell flies for Delta and resides in Coppell, TX. Tim “T-Ray” Ray is a 3-Star and is vice commander, US European Command.

Reid “Waylon” Reasor is a retired politician from San Antonio, TX. Art Ross is a DoD teacher in Brussels. Mike “Shuly” Schulenberg flies for United out of Keller, TX. Jay “Tonto” Silveria is a 2-Star Al Udeid AB, vice commander, Air Force Central Command. Lynn Steer flies for United out of Colorado Springs. Giff Stein is an American pilot out of Dallas, TX. Pat Stoneham runs a consulting firm out of Colorado Springs.

Jack Stuart is a United Airlines pilot out of Denver, CO. Dave “Scanner” Tan is a United pilot out of South Bend, IN. Carey Thompson is a corporate pilot Members residing in California.

44% Dave “DT” Thompson is a 2-Star for Space Command. Matt Valle is a PhD and Management Dept. director for Elon University out of Whitsett, NC. Scott “Viper” Vipond is president/owner of Girard Sabre Society Wood Products out of Tacoma, Donors WA. Jim “Jimbo” Vogt is an 12 FAA inspector out of Seattle, WA. Chris “Weitz” Weitzer flies for American out of Colloyville, TX. Mike “Digger” Wells is an American pilot out of Highland Village, TX. Lastly, RK Williams is a Grumman project manager, Colorado Springs.

Digger Wells just received the following picture from his 2-degree roomie, Maj. Gen. Jay Silveria.

They are four ’85ers running the war from the Al Udeid CAOC -- or at least sending a lot of emails

Lt. Gen. Jeff Harrigian, Maj. Gen. Jay Silveria, Brig. Gen. John Williams, and Col. Jeff Van Dooting Tia Jolie (TJ) Phillips, (f.k.a) Timothy J. Phillips, dropped me a note to share her latest with the class. She currently resides in gorgeous Jupiter, FL, where she just wrapped up her PhD in holistic natural health & nutrition. She performed most of the work for her Masters and PhD “in the cracks of life” while flying the line as now a nine-year captain at Jet Blue Airlines. Congratulations, Dr. Phillips. I don’t know how you managed to squeeze the time in to fly, attend class and study.

Jim and Holly extend an open invitation to anyone passing through the St. Louis area.

Joe Michell and his wife, Lori, attended the All American Hero Inaugural Ball in Washington, D.C. From all accounts they had a fabulous time. Even with two left feet I know I would have enjoyed attending. Way to go on scoring those tickets Joey!

Joe and Lori Any of you with kids graduating or starting school this summer, or with any other news you’d like to share with the class, please be sure to send it my way. I always look forward to passing along class news. ’.85... Best Alive! Scott -W. Scott Carney, P.O. Box 5, Pembroke, ME 04666; (207) 214-4836; USAFA.Class.of.1985@gmail.com Greetings classmates!

The deadline for the previous edition of Checkpoints came out right after our 30-year reunion so there wasn’t much time to report on the event. Hopefully we can do some of that here this quarter and share some of the memories from that event.

For those who were there and not there – it was very well attended; in the end I believe more than half our class was there. Impressively many classmates live right in the area and many others have children who are either graduates or cadets.

Here is photographic evidence of how big the crowd was – I was unable to get a National Park Service estimate of the Members crowd, but I personally believe 50% that this was the biggest crowd ever to attend a reunion, ever, in the history of reunions. (See photo at the top of the next page.)

Reports from the field indicate that everything looks Sabre Society pretty much the same, but that Donors nothing is the same as when we 11 attended. Some reported that was good; some reported that was bad.

Lots of observations, and in fact, one of our own,

1986

Tia Jolie [she uses Tia Jolie as her entire first name as would Mary Ann] Phillips Jim Lovell retired as a colonel out of the Pentagon in 2013 after 28 years of service. He and his wife, Holly, settled in O’Fallon, IL, where they had a previous assignment with USTRANSCOM. Jim took off eight months and did nothing but help Holly open the store she always wanted. Check out www.tiahouse.com to see what he has been up to.

Basically they represent about 70 local artists and craftsmen and mix in the best local antiques, mission oak furniture, art pottery, hammered copper and more. The store is in Lebanon, IL, about five miles from Scott AFB in a nice historic district with a brick street and other similar streets. He finally went to work back at TRANSCOM as a GS-15 and absolutely loves it. He works with John Hilbing, Ron Marselles, and a few other great ’85ers. Their girls are headed off to Ole Miss next fall and CJ is a young football phenom so games are always fun.

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS and BCT/1st semester roommate Jim Good who I had not seen since graduation – also got to sit with C. Ben Quintana, Rob Schrink and Chris Knehans.

Chris was wearing his A-Jacket with “some” success. I wore my GLGs, the only item from my red trunk that still fits besides by bathrobe, and they literally fit like a glove.

From left in the front row. . .

L. Todd Wood who has a few items on the shelf at into was former Preppy Bill Ibinson at the Cadet Barnes and Noble took pen to paper to report on Chapel with his significant other Lisa, which was his observations and that link can be found here: odd because I don’t remember ever running into http://opslens.com/2017/01/17/usafa-traininghim at the chapel before… Bill is doing great, lives pc-culture-obama-administration/ -- perhaps in the DC area and has not, literally, aged a day – the link gives away his sentiments, but if you want see for yourself: to see the debate that unfolded on Facebook then please create an account and ask to join the Facebook: USAFA Class of 1986 page. It is for our classmates and spouses only, so you won’t see too much there that isn’t germane to your time at The Zoo. (Mostly pictures of 50-year-old out-of-shape men trying to squeeze into their A-Jackets…)

On our page you will find numerous photos taken of squadron gatherings and events – too many to try to share here, so will encourage you to go down that route!

For myself, I was reunited with several of my squadron mates and renewed old friendships Caption: Bill Ibinson in his old cadet room / throughout the weekend. The first person I ran confinement cage!

During the visit of the Cadet Area I took my son Sam to go see my old cadet room, and was surprised to find out that CS-32 had been relocated and the 29 Panthers had encroached into my old ‘86 Pride That Sticks stomping grounds. What came as a real shock was when I went by my classmate Rob Shrink’s CS-02 53.85% The Class of ’86 is raising old room and his nametag was still on the door…

CS-33 47.83% funds to support the what? Turns out his daughter Jordan is a freshCS-22 45.45% Center for Character and man in the Class of 2020 (Class Motto: We can see CS-29 44.00% Leadership Development. clearly!) and is in the very same room that her dad CS-03 34.62% The class has raised occupied 30 years prior. Karma? Coincidence?

CS-17 29.17% over 200K toward their Hard to say, but a pleasant surprise.

CS-25 26.09% goal with only 16% class I must duly report that the trash chutes no lonCS-27 23.81% participation! Thank you ger exist… don’t know how the trash gets put out; CS-15 23.08% to the top 10 squadrons don’t know if the freshmen have a role to play…

CS-20 18.18% for paving the way! just so many questions.

CS-21 18.18% The event was wonderfully planned and executed by Mike Meader and his “team” which, if I Please help ’86 reach their $250K Goal. try to mention all I will surely leave many out, but Give at www.usafa.org/give/1986CCLD will note that the Mansfields – Julie and Bob – were instrumental in much of the logistics. It has been fun to follow their adventures as their son and all of his classmates invade their home nearby on most weekends – lots of fun, I’m sure to relive those days without having to meticulously clean your own room prior to the football game.

At the game, the spirit cheese was flying! Despite threats (rumored) made that we would be tossed out on our ear if we continued with these lactose-laced hijinks! But once again, like most of the threats we received from the Class of 1985, there was no follow through. Ran into classmate 132 · usafa.org

Back Row: C. Ben Quintana, Rob Schrink, and Bob Colella. Seated: Chris Knehans and Jim Good.

Random Hookups: (can I say that?) Glen Moore (CS-20) and David Updegraff (CS-15) met up and were having a pint at the Devil’s Advocate in Edinburgh, Scotland. They flew (kind of) together in the back of F-16s on a two-ship during Operation Air Force in 1985. 31-plus years later they were flying together for real in a 757 to Edinburgh.

Lastly – Classmates Kelly Barlean and Marty “McFly” MacNabb both are on the AOG Board of Directors ballot (The voting for which, by the time this goes to print, will be wrapped up) and would offer that we are at that point in our lives where we do have something to share and give back given our experiences and our leadership qualities – hopefully both are now on the board and we can use the two of them to help us voice our views on the direction that the Academy is going. Apparently Mitchell Hall these days is “all about nutrition” which is good news to some of us, and bad news to others – but regardless of how you feel, if we don’t voice our views, they remain just “our” views.

Signing off until the fall – Lawrence Cooper gets the next shot.

Fast, Neat, Average! (Apparently that is something that also fell off the table…)

–Bob Colella, 9247 Northedge Drive, Springfield, VA 22153; (571) 422-0367; Robert.Colella.86@ gmail.com

1987

Greetings once again ’87; first issue in the year which will culminate in our 30th reunion, very hard to believe that it has been that long! Many different things to update everyone on, so let’s get started! Speaking of the upcoming reunion, we still have not gotten a confirmed date from the AOG—we are hoping for Army weekend (game on 4 Nov) so stay tuned! For the best way to keep up with the details, join our USAFA Class of 1987 Facebook page. We are waiting on the classes

of ’72 and ’77 -- it’s a seniority system. Dates are announced at http://www.usafa.org/Connect/ Reunions. Some folks have asked about our class ring warranty, resizing, etc. so here is the info that will help—I got mine resized a couple of years ago and they did a real nice job: you can repair, replace or resize your ring before the reunion.

Herff Jones (HJ) Ring (Repair/Replace/Warranty): Ryan Tanner, 1-800-4513304 Ext 401238, email: rptanner@herffjones.com; or Gail Giliard, Phone: 1-800-451-3304 Ext 401201, email: gegiliard@ herffjones.com.

Members HJ warranty information: 48% For the lifetime of your ring, HJ fully warrants both the ring and simulated gemstone to be free from defects in workmanship and/or material. If your college ring cannot be repaired or replaced under these terms, a Sabre Society refund will be allowed. In addiDonors tion, the following services will 17 be performed at NO CHARGE: resize ring, replace broken or defective simulated stones, restore original finish of ring, and/or change curriculum degree or date of graduation. To make a claim under this warranty, contact your local HJ sales professional or submit a completed HJ Ring Warranty Form along with your ring to: Herff Jones, Inc. Warranty Services Dept., Herff Jones Center, 150 Herff Jones Way, Warwick, RI 02888. Email: collegeringwarranty@herffjones. com.Toll-free: 1-800-451-3304.

Dave Hollenbach provided several updates in the last several months: “I attended this quarter’s CAS meeting last week. Here are some general notes: -- Brig Gen Armacost (Dean) briefed lots of changes in the academic dept. M&T days possibly being eliminated in favor of a standard weekly schedule, core course load shedding 2-3 courses, longer contact times for some courses (e.g., discussion and lab courses), instructors will have more input into MPA, stronger ties to industry in research and patents, Cyberworx center being designed and organized as a cyber center of excellence -- There is an important election coming up. AOG encourages everyone to take note and participate -- Our bylaws require a quorum of 25% of the membership (approximately 7,049 members) for bylaw changes to be enacted.

-- The AOG Board of Directors proposes three bylaw changes: 1) Simplifying our vision statement, 2) Allowing the Class Advisory Senate president to vote, and 3) Allowing a single president and CEO to lead the separate boards of the AOG and the USAFA Endowment (A Bright New Future).

-- The AOG Board of Directors strongly encourages each member to vote IN FAVOR of the proposed bylaw changes. Find more info at these links:

Election Rules/Policies/Procedures Single CEO Agreement Single CEO Agreement (with rationale) Frequently Asked Questions Proposed Changes to Bylaws The Current Bylaws -- Our website has an Election page providing links to the bylaw and candidate information. We encourage all voters to view this site to learn about the candidates and their positions.

Rick Broome is the USAFA class painter and some folks might like to get a class print commemorating our 30-year reunion. They can be ordered here: http://rickbroomeonlinestore.com/ unstairfoaco1.html.

-- I also attended the Class Aadvisory Senate meeting. Check out the link at http://www.usafa. org/AOG/ClassAdvisorySenate for updates on the big Falcon Stadium modernization planned or in work, preliminary discussions on the AOG and Endowment merger, a plan for the planetarium, and other fundraising activities.

-- I ran into Rhett Butler last week. Rhett is the regional manager for Exoanalytic Solutions and runs the company’s operations in Colorado Springs. His wife teaches at a local Christian school. Sadly Murray “Murf” Clark left his job in Pueblo, CO at the Intermediate Flight Training facility to return to Kansas to one of his previous homes -- Murf took a too-good-to-pass-up position at an airline. Our families were hoping to get to spend more time together. David Bachler has reason to celebrate after his first year at United Airlines -- the big shindig is this weekend. Other invitees include John Abbatiello, who just started a new job at USAFA in the Center for Leadership and Character Development, and Mark Wilbanks, the party MC. Happy to report Terence Andre is doing great after a multi-year battle with cancer. He’s lookin’ good and back on the road consulting and supporting Tier1 Performance, a learning management system and consulting company. Jeff Rhodes is back at USAFA working in the Communications Squadron as a government program manager and looking to improve USAFA computer systems.

Another sad loss to report is classmate Scott Maser who lost his four-month battle with leukemia. A great outpouring of support at the chapel for Scott’s family. Spotted at the chapel was a good looking Cadet Sharpy, a spitting image of his dad (Maj. Gen. Tom Sharpy) and showed up to fly the ‘87 colors and so honored the Maser family. Ran into Miles Dahlby at church where he volunteers. Miles is looking well and healthy and no longer in need of his walking cane, having kicked what ailed him! Spoke briefly with Doug “Woody” Woodbury. Woody is flying for Frontier Airlines. Roe Jones is still flying for FedEx and raising his great family in the Seattle area. Mike “Clem” Patterson and his family run a thriving country vet practice in the Laurens, SC area. Fortunately Hurricane Matthew missed Laurens on its path up the coastline. Spotted at the 2016 AOG Scotch Tasting event, Chris Forseth is a VP at Harris Corporation, running space operations business units in Los Angeles and Colorado Springs. All for now, Dave.”

Thanks Dave, great update!

Steve Miller provided the following: “John and Carolyn, I wanted to share with you a photo from last week in Washington, DC with three USAFA ’87 grads. Mark “Schtick” Delong, Bruce LaCharite, and I attended the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) Security Cooperation Industry Group (SCIG) in mid-December 2016. This is a quarterly meeting between State Department, Commerce, DOD, and U.S. Defense Industry reps to address overall U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) issues.

Steve Miller, Mark DeLong and Bruce LaCharite “Here is an update on all three ’87 grads: Mark ‘Schtick’ DeLong is now a DOD civilian at the Pentagon and serves as the chief of Weapons, Technology Transfer Division, Secretary of the Air Force/ International Affairs (SAF/IA). Schtick also served in SAF/IA when he was active duty as well. Bruce LaCharite is director, International Business Development & Government Affairs, at FlightSafety International, and lives in Orlando, FL. While he was active duty, Bruce had worked U.S. FMS for DSCA. I am currently living in Atlanta, GA. I am the Strategic Program Development lead, Electronics, Optics, and Systems Directorate (EOSD), at Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI). We are all looking forward to the 30th reunion in fall 2017.”

–John & Carolyn Sammartino, 3107 Woods Cove Lane, Woodbridge, VA 22192; Home (703) 4925492; Cell: (703) 220-1372; jsammar@verizon.net

1988

Happy New Year ’88! As some rejoice and some fret about the inauguration, let’s focus on a definite positive… our class!

Tom Corcoran wrote… “We had a Tiger 10 get-together to watch UNLV vs USAFA basketball in Las Vegas. It was a great game even with our Falcons losing in double overtime.” Here’s our status: Carl (SWA/USAFR Ret) and Tia Butts live in Napa and their daughter Alexa is a sophomore at Purdue. Cleve (United Airlines) and Amy Turk are in Las Vegas with their soccerplaying high school boys. Bill (intellectual property attorney) and Laura Revelos are in Moraga, CA, with their 13- and 10-year-old boys. Paul (United Airlines/USAFR, Ret) and Kim Young live south of Denver with their three teenage daughters. Tom Corcoran (United Airlines/USAFR, Ret) lives in Davis, CA, with his wife, Amanda, and two sons in and finishing college.

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS Will has lots of “fun” schools ahead of him, to include Freefall School, Survival School, and the PJ Apprentice course which includes mountains, helicopters, lots of rappelling, and other scary things associated with search and rescue missions.

Thanks guys!

From left are Carl Butts, Cleve Turk, Bill Revelos, Paul Young, and Tom Corcoran.

Dave Briar checked in that he is now living in Tok, AK, working for Bowhead Systems Management writing technical documents, business development and program management. He lives about a mile from the Alaskan highway and “…for anyone who decides to drive to Alaska, feel free to look us up or just send a note if Members you need travel tips to P.O. Box 47% 233, Tok, AK 00780 or David.

Briar@Outlook.com.”

David Smith let me know his daughter, C4C Cameron Smith, took a soaring flight with Joe Llewellyn’s daughter, C2C Lauren Llewellyn as her Sabre Society IP… small world! Georgia Donors Ruckle McCurdy posted on 23 our Facebook page, “What are the chances of three ’88ers being in the same distant land all at the same time (on vacation)? Jo Anne Pinney and I almost, almost managed to meet up with Derrick Doyle as he was also in the very beautiful and very Christmassy city of Prague! But alas, schedules didn’t quite work out, so we only got two of the three in one place! But we were in contact on our cell phones.”

No other news to report. Please keep in touch and send me inputs for the next issue. Wishing you all a joy-filled New Year.

–Tom Sadlo, thomas.sadlo@gmail; (240) 427-8453

1989

Greetings ’89ers, hope everyone had a relaxing Christmas and Happy New Year!! I recently returned from our 2017 CSAF Wing Commander’s Conference in DC. The updates provided by the senior leaders of our service were outstanding, and in the typical class of our boss, Gen. Goldfein spent the entire two days with us! It was also a rare pleasure to catch up with our fellow wing commanders, who travelled from all over the planet – over 200 CCs in all. We took the opportunity to grab a photo of as many ’89ers as possible… all told, six of us with the honor of leading airmen.

Great seeing everyone!

134 · usafa.org

Mighty Fine ’89 gathered together at the Wing CC Conference. From left are Doug Cox, 36 WG/ CC, Andersen AFB, Guam; Jeremy Horn, 194 WG/ CC, Camp Murray, WA; Mike Smith, 174 ATKW/CC, Syracuse, NY; me; Gen. Dave Goldfein (’83), CSAF 21; Bryan Teff, 110 ATKW/CC, Kellogg ANGB, MI; and Shaun Perkowski, 167 AW/CC, Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport - Shepherd Field, Martinsburg, WV. Our first update comes from my old roommate both at USAFA and pilot training, Scott Madison, who continues to fly for American Airlines and spend summers in Minnesota Lake Country at their cabin with beautiful bride, Melinda. During some particularly frigid temps at Members their home in the Chicago area 51% this winter, Scott was spending a layover sunning himself in Mexico… tough duty! Melinda is still teaching 4th graders, and for fun she is coaching the girls’ C team at their school. Thanks Sabre Society for the update guys!

Donors One of my squadron-mates 10 from CS-39, Jedi Knights/Campus Rads, Doug Malone, writes to say he has finally completed the academic requirements for his next career, and has just begun his student teaching as a high school math teacher.

He will be teaching at the high school that gave the world many NFL players, including Buffalo Bill’s quarterback Tyrod Taylor. Last year Doug ran the Charleston Marathon in the amazing time of 3:43!

Wife, Jacqui, is still teaching high school English and loves it. They have decided to move in summer of 2019 to the beautiful town of Leavenworth in Washington State where they have purchased an acre of land.

Son Tom graduated from George Mason University in May with a B.S. in economics, which has proven to be a useful foundation for his current academic challenge of law school. He loves Charlottesville, the University of Virginia School of Law, and is strangely excited about this semester’s classes which include the electives federal income tax and environmental law! Son Will has defied the odds and continues in the USAF pararescue pipeline having survived the brutal indoctrination course. His class started with 120 and graduated 16. He now has a combat diver qualification, his emergency medical technician license, and is working through his paramedic qualification. He heads to Philadelphia for his clinicals in March.

Doug, Tom, Jacqui and Will in a rare gathering over the holidays!

Last update is from another of my UPT classmates, Christy Kayser-Cook, who remains in Colorado Springs after retirement teaching physics as a civilian at USAFA and leading the fundraising efforts for our 30-year reunion. She is also very involved in her church as a member of the board of trustees, and took over as the finance secretary in January. Christy also volunteered on the Academy’s Admissions Office Selection Panel last year, scoring applicant’s packages for the Class of 2020.

Daughter Haley is now 15 and a freshman in high school. She recently obtained her driving permit and started attending a mixed martial arts school twice a week. Haley also attended a surf camp and continues to follow her teams in the European soccer leagues with a vengeance! Daughter Emily is 18 and a senior in high school. She plans to attend Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA, this fall. Emily continues to be consumed by distance running, cross country and track, and would like to walk-on to a cross country and distance track team in college. The family took a few ski trips last year, checked off 12 more National Park sites, and visited with family in Washington State and South Carolina. Appreciate the update!

Christy administering the oath of office to her sponsor cadet, and now second lieutenant, Becky Murphy!

That’s a wrap for this quarter. Keep those cards and letters coming. Take care and God bless!

–Paul W. Tibbets IV, 509 Earhart Circle, Whiteman AFB, MO 65303; (660) 233-8333; Email p2a2@ me.com or p2a2tibbets@gmail.com; Class Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/ groups/43101356987 Greetings MGC! So it’s truly the dark ages as I write this—the sun has been blocked by the “atmospheric river” here in SoCal—the news media needed something to describe three big storms in a row! At any rate, I’m enjoying a relaxing weekend inside watching football and checking in on our class.

I finally opened a few Christmas cards (by the way, I’m happy to get on your regular Christmas mailing list and am always willing to reciprocate!).

John Shaw is still busy with STRATCOM at Offutt AFB, NE where he is with Tonia, daughter Rachel and son Tim. The Kriss family as settled back in our old stomping grounds of Colorado Springs. Dan and Esme Daetz are also in the Springs where they are devoted leaders in Members The Navigators, and Chris48% topher Padbury is back at the Zoo serving at the Center for Character Leadership and Development. Marcus Schulthess retired after 26 years of service and is working at Ball Aerospace and living in Sabre Society (you guessed it) Colorado just Donors outside of Denver where they 9 are closer to family and the ski slopes. Mike Contratto surprised me with the announcement he is engaged to Tanja in Florida outside of Eglin. His daughters continue to impress—Liza was a singer in the allstate chorus and Sophia marched in the Rose Bowl parade to ring in the New Year!

There were a few other notes to report on. Lee Armstrong dropped me a line: “Caught up with Tom Engle in Phoenix in January. He’s working on his Masters in Education and student teaching in high school! He is with the National Geospatial-

Intelligence Agency in St Louis. Tom’s sons are protecting our country in the Marines and the Army, and his wife, Courtney, takes care of vets as a VA dietician! My wife, Danna, is a vet tech. All good!”

Derek Sodon has been jet setting around the country with Southwest. He was recently paired with Garth Tarlizzi.

1990

Lee Armstrong (left) and Tom Engle are now bearded hipsters.

Derek Sodon (left) and Garth Terlizzi flying with Southwest He also had a chance to visit with fellow Southwest pilot and classmate Curtis Stauffer and his bride, Jenny. When Curtis isn’t flying with Southwest he is splitting his time with the Charleston ANG. Finally, Derek and his wife, Michele, and Vince Schons were able to attend Derek’s former roommate Brian Smith’s wedding to Carrie Lane. Brian is also an airline pilot but with American Airlines.

Tom McCarthy sent in a quick update: “Mike, I turned over command of the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies (SAASS) on Maxwell AFB in June and PCSed to Connecticut and have now taken command of the USAF ROTC Detachment at Yale University. The detachment has only been open for 4 1/2 years and already has more than 60 cadets. We receive amazing support from the university; they’re very welcoming and extremely proud of the fact that ROTC is back on campus. If anyone is interested in visiting the detachment and meeting with the cadet wing, the door is open; they love the interaction.”

By the time you read this we’ll have elected a new AOG board. One of the candidates is our very own Sam Svitenko: “As you may have seen, I’m on the ballot for the AOG Board of Directors election in Feb. I threw my hat in the ring because I want to steer the AOG to drive more local activities and grassroots involvement with our grads. We need more good old-fashioned awareness out there of the Air Force Academy and how it is different from West Point and Annapolis! Outside of the election, I had a great time flying over to Arizona to meet up with Mark Weatherington, my roommate from CS-13 to watch AF beat South Alabama. Mark is stationed in the Springs and now leading cyber efforts for NorthCom, so our infrastructure is in good hands! I am working at Nimble Storage in Channel Sales and Strategy, running our partner programs, strategy and execution worldwide, which keeps me busy. I’m still married to Laurie (Maher) Svitenko from the Class of 1991 and we have two amazing daughters, who, at 12 and 7, keep us jumping! We live in San Clemente, CA, so if anyone is in the area, give us a shout!”

I saved the best update for last! Kim (Scott) Ford had the following: “Hey Mike, here is my update.

Just landed, so sorry it took so long! -- I had my fini

flight in the C-17 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, in June 2015, and I retired from the USAFR in Jan 2016. I love retirement! I returned back to Alaska Airlines and am flying the 737 based out of Seattle, WA. Over the holidays I had the honor of flying our classmate Ted Grady from Portland, OR to Seattle. I was recently married to the love of my life, Col. (Ret) Edward Ford, in April 2016 at the Seattle Museum of Flight. It was an amazing day, with seven members of Mighty ’90 in attendance!” In the photo from right to left are Kevin Hoppin, Dawn (Molzen) Ehresman, Cathy (Morgan) Kleifges, Kim (Scott) Ford, Shannon (Gregory) Yenchesky, Jacqui Marty, Som Chai Odom, and Steve Scott—nice to see Checkpoints in lieu of a bouquet at the wedding!

Kim Scott Edwards wedding party with seven other Mighty ’90ers at Seattle’s Museum of Flight.

Thanks again for all the updates and congratulations to our Falcons on a bowl victory to go with the CinC trophy! Mighty ’90—Flash.

–Mike Shepherd, 3801 Derby Circle, Quartz Hill, CA 93536; michael.j.shepherd@hotmail.com At the time of this writing, I am about to depart for a several-day journey back to D.C. in association with the timing of the National Prayer Breakfast. I have had to keep an open schedule, therefore have not planned anything in the way of gatherings with many of you there; I hope that we will nevertheless have connected in some way.

One exception: by getting reminded by the Facebook algorithms, I wrote to Troy Thomas and discovered that he has been at (and is now leaving) the White House. Troy, you’ve been at the White House and never wrote me a postcard!

Members Hopefully we will be able to 53% meet next week.

Just before our reunion Lynn “Jinx” (Gawell) Freeborn shared the following news and photos, including quite a few rendezvous opportunities with classmates. “I ran into David Sabre Society Donors Wright (’93) and Todd Erickson at the most recent Society 7 of Experimental Test Pilots (SETP) annual banquet in September. Dave is still

1991

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS in Florida at the F-15 CTF as a contractor. I ran into Col. Mike Lawrence at the Pentagon (at the start of October). I ran into him in the halls as he was returning from briefing Congress. I was there to support my husband’s retirement (Col. Andy Freeborn, ’92). Last spring I worked on a joint test & eval project that supported a bigger project for Brig. Gen. Paul Bauman. It was nice knowing that some of our ’91 folks were general officers. I’m still working as a government civilian at AF Joint Test Program Office—Nellis AFB. Currently, I’m the acting Joint Test Development division chief. Andy is joining me in Las Vegas post AF retirement and is looking for a job. We are looking forward to living together full time for the first time in three years.”

Todd just took over as president of SetPoint but is keeping his day job at Virgin Galactic.

Thank you for sharing, Lynn! Congrats on getting to start a nice, long, period with Andy by your side.

Last week I was in southern California, driving all over the place, during which I had a special catch-up session in Irvine with Lori (Maher) Svitenko over coffee. She is doing well and her husband, Sam (’90), is running for the AOG Board.

If the election’s not over, go vote for him! Lori and I came to an agreement that our kids are awesome!

While in Los Angeles I also had the great privilege of meeting with Eric Buhr (’93) who might very well travel to China with me. Eric is now the technology director of a new energy company; wow! Which reminds me, if any of you ever wish to do anything remotely professional in China, I would LOVE to talk to you in advance during your planning stages.

In a form of response to attending our 25th reunion, Brian Wish, (possibly also in response as well to L. Todd Wood’s article “The United States Air Force Academy Doesn’t Train Warriors Anymore”) wrote an excellent, thoughtful article on the changes fundamentally shaping the development of future USAFA graduates. Titled “It’s Not Your Parent’s Air Force Academy,” I recommend you search for Brian’s article and read it. You’ll find easy links to both on our FB page.

My favorite quotation from Brian’s article is: “Was I just too dumb to quit?” Brian, you were NOT too dumb!

Back in August (my brain was somewhere else) Brian had also attended the pin-on ceremony for Brig. Gen. Heather Pringle and her assumption of command of Joint Base San Antonio (502nd Air Base Wing) which I neglected to report in the 136 · usafa.org

run-up to our reunion. Congrats, Heather! Brian, good on you for being so engaged and reporting on these things.

Also in San Antonio are Brig. Gen. Linda (Washburn) Hurry, Col. Andy Foltz and Col. Jim Cluff.

They got together for a Christmas thing. The heavens continue to populate with Bold Gold stars…

Brig. Gen. Matt Isler thinks deeply of Bold Gold as he is carried over the desert sands.

Soon after our reunion, Dr. Brian Williams took a much-needed trip to Hawaii and popped in to see Jerome Osurman; they had a great visit!

Chris Howard was brought onto the College Football Playoff Selection Committee! He will do a great job.

Here’s a cool “two-part” series: Kip Wilkowski posted just as his 29 November flight to Denver was taking off that the first officer was John Shirtz!

Kip reported “Yes, I will be critiquing his landing,” followed by John’s admission of feeling the pressure!

Ha ha. Great landing; met the family; Wilkowskis barely made the next connection, it seems.

Then, two weeks later, John Vaughn and John Shirtz ran into each other at World Arena. (Was it because Vaughn was wearing a blue Air Force sweatshirt?) After 25 years of not seeing Shirtz’ name come up much for Checkpoints, twice in one month was notable! I think maybe we all had better “keep our eyes peeled” for Shirtz!

Okay, dear friends, that is all I have the time to compile for you at this time.

Enjoy the return of spring!

–Carson Tavenner, 7912 Carlisle Place, Arlington, WA 98223; (301) 367-8969; Tavenner@hotmail. com Welcome to another 1992 update! I hope this finds all of you happy and healthy this quarter.

I’m short on space today, so I’ll just get to it.

DEA Agent and Doctor. Sean Lawler has reliably kept me up to date about his time as a DEA agent. He recently completed his PhD (yes, that kind of “doctor”) in management at Colorado Technical University with a concentration in homeland security and a focus on school security from active shooters and terrorists. Sean separated in 2004 and has been with DEA ever since initially as a special agent in

1992

New Jersey/New York and the last six years with the Aviation Division HQ in Fort Worth, TX flying Learjet 60s, Citation Bravos, and Cessna 206s. He’s also a stan/eval pilot and serves as a DEA tactical instructor, a DEA firearms instructor, and an active shooter instructor. If all that doesn’t sound like it keeps him busy enough, he recently started a consulting group that improves security for schools, hospitals, churches and businesses. Specifically, Sean provides tactical instruction to teachers who carry concealed weapons on campus, putting together realistic scenario-based training exercises to discover the existing gaps in security, inoculate school staff members against the stress of an attack, and provide basic immediate tactical medicine for shooting/bombing victims. And, he also volunteers as a USAFA ALO for the north Fort Worth area.

Finally, Sean mentioned he’s convinced DEA to start recruiting at the AOG-sponsored SACCs and attends some of them personally. So look for him there if you plan to attend and are interested!

Update from Oklahoma. Ross Sauter emailed me with the news that he retired from the Air Force Reserve at Vance AFB last May on the 24th anniversary of our graduation. He’s been flying for Delta Air Lines for the last two years and enjoying life in his airport community home on Lake Keystone outside of Tulsa, OK. TB92 in Hawaii. The local ’92 contingent here has been active linking up with other classmates lucky enough to visit the Islands. First, Ken Moss and Frank Flores were in town for the PACAF Commanders Conference in Members November. As I’ve mentioned 49% previously, Ken has been the 374 AW/CC at Yokota AB since this summer and Frank is the commander of the PACAF Regional Support Center responsible for 40 remote Alaska sites and five geographicallySabre Society separated locations across the Donors Pacific Theater at Joint Base 14 Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska. Locals, James Shigekane, Art Primas, Tom Dobbs, Mike Cardoza, and I met them for dinner. Good food, good beer, and great company!

Speaking of Ken, when I was in Japan in October, I played golf with Ken at Tama Hills Golf Course (the Yokota AB golf course). It was a beautiful morning and we had a great view of Mt. Fuji from the 6th tee box. If you make it out to Tokyo, I recommend playing golf with Ken as his foursome gets treated better than he deserves since he is the Wing CC. And, Ken’s a good golfer and as entertaining as ever! I also ran into Pete Knox when I had lunch in the clubhouse. He recognized me and came over to say hello. I didn’t recognize Pete at first because

he had retired about a month previously and had grown a nice beard. He was there visiting Japan with his family and playing golf with his dad. He was enjoying terminal leave and had not decided on future plans at the time. He suggested a photo for Checkpoints… so here it is.

Pete and James at Tama Hills Golf Course, Japan.

Air Force One inbound… I would have to say that the highlight visit to Hawaii was by Rob Tobler.

As the POTUS spent his last Christmas vacation in Hawaii, Rob took what will probably his last Christmas TDY out here, as well. As the deputy presidential pilot for the 89 PAG, Rob pilots Air Force One and spent about two weeks out here in Hawaii.

Unfortunately, he missed being with family during the holidays, but we tried to take good care of him. And, he also took good care of us. He got the True Blue ’92 gang in Hawaii personal tours of the president’s aircraft! It was pretty awesome and we got to bring our families. I know it was just another day at the “office” for him, but I could also see he was pretty proud to show us around “his” aircraft.

Plus it is cool to say that the Class of 1992 flies the POTUS. Being active duty, he’ll stay on despite the change in administration.

school graduating in 2018. As the 7th Base Wing Commander, Dave led several ’93ers in support of that wing’s mission. It’s great to know our class still has a strong impact… even in Dyess, TX! The Bensons are happily not going to move for a while… seven moves in 10 years makes one want to plant roots.

Retirees Don Unwin, Kip Wilkowski, and Jim Meeger at the post-Arizona Bowl celebration.

Digging into the mail bag. Every year I’m on Janet (Hagadorn) Bohlmann’s and Nicole (Foster) Greenwood’s Christmas card list. I get to see their children grow up and an update on how they’re doing. Janet is working as a Navy civilian in Dahlgren, VA, and enjoying time with her husband (Thomas) and two kids (Isaac 6 and Riley 3). In September, she completed her first half marathon—it was the AF-Navy marathon in DC! Nicole is continuing to keep busy with her kids as a stay-at-home mom. Her son, Garrett, is a sophomore and an aspiring cadet looking to attend USAFA. He just found out he was selected for the Hugh O’Brien Leadership seminar in Virginia this spring, so he is working hard to be competitive. Her daughter, Griffin, is in 7th grade and also hopes to go to USAFA—Nicole’s got them both starting early!

Nicole’s husband, Jeff, is at National War College and pinned on O-6 in August 2016. A former vice wing/CC from Laughlin AFB, Maj. Gen. Pete Sutton (’72), presided. Nicole and Jeff got to know him and his wife, Diane, when they were stationed at Laughlin in 1996. They will soon find out their next assignment and are ready to depart DC after four years.

The 25th reunion is approaching. Please check the AOG website for dates. Start making your plans today and don’t miss out. It will undoubtedly be a great time. I look forward to seeing you all there.

As it always seems to happen, I finished up this column on the airplane enroute to a TDY. Tonight, I just arrived at the Wing Commanders’ Conference in DC with CSAF, so I’ve already seen several classmates in the hotel lobby (bar). I’ll report on that next time and maybe have a photo as well. Stand by… Until next time, True Blue. Aloha, James.

–James S. Mehta, 117 Julian Ave., Honolulu, HI 96818; (571) 830-7095; jamesmehta@earthlink. net; james.mehta@us.af.mil

Left to right and top to bottom are Mike Dozier, Rob Tobler, James Mehta, Art Primas, James Shigekane, Tom Dobbs, and John Wilson on Air Force One. My former roommate, Don Unwin, took his family to Arizona over the holidays to cheer the Falcons to victory over South Alabama at the Arizona Bowl. Following the game in Tucson, Jim Meger hosted a New Year’s party where he retired and Don, Jim, and Kip Wilkowsky took a moment to capture the three retired CS-22 Tarantulas.

1993

My, my, my ’93! How are you?

I hope this finds everyone doing great! All is well in DC… much to the dismay of the news. Hope everyone had a fantastic holiday and you were all able to spend it with friends and/or family.

Got a great update from the Benson family (thanks Anne!).

Dave Benson is going to retire and stay in the Dyess area so their son, Andrew, can finish high

Colonels Benson, Hodge, Joseph and Russell From left are Col. David Benson, 7BW CC; Col. Steve Hodge is the 317 AG commander; Col. Wisteria Joseph is the 7 Mission Support Group Commander; and Col. Jeff Russell is the 7th Maintenance Group Commander.

Members What a great picture and 88% thanks for the update… our best to all the Bensons!

As a representative of the Class of 1993 25th Year Reunion USAFA Gift Committee, I would like to communicate some important information Sabre Society about our class gift that we will Donors be presenting to the Academy 13 for our 25th reunion.

Our class fund is not about building a physical memorial or merely giving back to Academy operations, but rather intentionally

Class of 1993 NCLS Outstanding Airmen 0 Panel Fund For our Class of 1993 25th Reunion Class Gift Project, we are supporting the National Character and Leadership Symposium (NCLS). The intent of the Class of ’93 NCLS Outstanding Airmen Panel Fund is to support an annual National Character and Leadership Symposium (NCLS) panel to strategically connect cadets and USAFA to the exceptional airmen across the Air Force, like those chosen to receive the Air Force Association’s (AFA) Outstanding Airmen Award. We have already raised over $63,000 from our classmates for this important project. To learn more about this project and to sign up for a monthly recurring contribution, please visit usafa.org/Give/93ncls.

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS Spring Break ’17! Wow, it has been an eventful time over the past few months. We had a big election and we now have a new president and SECDEF. I also just read that President Trump nominated an ’82 grad to be the new Secretary of the Air Force -- the first USAFA grad to take that position. There have been a lot of changes recently, but one thing that hasn’t changed... the New England Patriots are going to the Super Bowl again. Boo yeah! I just watched the Pats crush the Steelers in the AFC Championship and now we’ll see how they do in the big game against the Falcons.

Members Brady-Belichick, Make America 80% Great Again!

Speaking of elections, ’94 now has a county commissioner in our ranks. Rich Cimino sent me an update and told me that he was just elected to that position in Grand County, Sabre Society CO. Grand County is home to Donors the Winter Park/Mary Jane ski 10 area, where Rich now lives. His wife of 22 years is from Winter Park and when Rich retired from the AF in 2015, they moved back there. Rich said the election was a long, 10-month process with five people running for the job, but he pulled out the win. He said if any ’94 grads want to revisit the best ski town in Colorado, feel free to contact him. Congrats Rich!

1994

The Class of ’93 gathers at Port City Brewery, Thanks JD! investing in the future of AF leaders. We all served longer have your squadron contact info, please (and some of you are still serving), but frankly we contact one of us on the gift committee and we can want future classes to serve as well or better than send it again. our class.

Believe it or not, we have only 20 months left Funding our class gift -- https://www.usafa.org/ before to our 25th reunion in September 2018 -Give/93ncls -- will do just that by introducing the NOW is the critical time to communicate our mescadets to some of the most outstanding airmen sage to our class. The Academy helped develop they will be leading upon graduation, and by introthe foundation for how we all lead our personal ducing these top performing (and highly influenand professional lives; let’s invest in enhancing that tial) airmen to their Air Force’s Academy and cadets foundation for future classes!

-- their future leaders. By the way, the Endowment Again, if you have any questions or suggestions, does not take any administrative fees, so 100% of feel free to contact me or any one on the commitour contributions go to our fund. tee directly to avoid creating long email threads for The goal is to initially provide finances to fund the entire group. Thank you for helping us make expenses for 20-plus years of the NCLS Outstandan impact on our future AF leaders! ing Airman of the Year (OAY) program and other A group of about 20 classmates got together cadet interactions. Each year NCLS hosts an thanks to the expert planning of Jeff Kubik. We annual panel with several of the OAY. Due to OAY were able to gather at JD Holt’s Port City Brewery schedules, we expect that three, maybe four, of in Alexandria, VA, for a night of fun and fellowthe 12 OAY will be able to attend the panel and ship and to discuss our class gift to USAFA. (See possibly a couple more will be able to attend photo above.) Kevin Basik did an exceptional job at other Academy activities throughout the year. We explaining the above and many great ideas flowed want to fund the expenses for those top enlisted to create what we are presenting to you. personnel that travel to the Academy and expand the cadets’ knowledge as well as experience the Profession of Arms.

We have already received more than 60K in contributions and pledges, approximately 25% of our $250,000 goal. We are not telling people what to give -- we understand each one of us is in a different place in our lives, but we are asking people to step up and give something. $30 a month will move the needle -- if we all do at least that. If you can do more, do more -- and Rod Owens, Craig Yantiss and Adam Olshefsky know that many of our classmates are shooting enjoying a tasty beverage! well beyond that target with their recurring and Those in attendance were Antoine Banks, Kevin one-time gifts.

Basik, Darin Booth, Brian Burns, Maren Calvert, The gift committee needs your assistance in Sean Choquette, Kristin Goodwin, Jason Couisine, reaching out to your squadron mates (via phone Brendan Harris, JD Holt, Jennifer Krischer, Jeff Kucall/emails), as our goal is to contact 93% of the bik, Adam Olshefsky, Rod Owens, Shelley Strong, grads in our class and achieve more than 40% Mike Sundsted, Curtis Velasquez and Craig Yanparticipation in funding our class gift. tiss. I definitely forgot a few. We had a great time For the new squadron reps, if you haven’t and all agreed to pledge support for the National received your squadron lists, please reply back to Character and Leadership Symposium. me directly when you get a chance so I can provide Plan on having a member of your squadron your squadron contact info and answer any adcontact you about our gift plan. Remember to visit ditional questions on how we have been commuour class website above on the AOG website to nicating to our squadron mates. pledge today! Mike For existing squadron representatives, if you –Michael D. Sundsted, 1805 Macadams Place, Alhave not already done so, please reach out to your exandria, VA 22308; (703) 307-0903; mdsunsted@ former squadron mates and ask them to congmail.com tribute to this very important class gift. If you no 138 · usafa.org

Commissioner Cimino I got updates from ’94 war-fighters in two AORs recently. First, I heard from Zach Zeiner who is deployed to Kuwait as the 387 AEG commander.

He said he is there with Charlie Bolton, who is the wing commander. Zach also said he has seen Dave Berg, Trey Chastain, Sean McLay and John Vincent, who are all deployed in the AOR. Pictured are Zach, Charlie and Chuck Stevens (’93) at their deployed location. Stay safe over there! (See photo at the top of the next column.)

My other AOR update was from the abovementioned Sean McLay, who checked in from Kabul, Afghanistan. He said he is there at Resolute Support HQ, “winning the peace” with several other ’94 grads, including colonels John Beattie,

A couple red hot commanders and some cool aircraft!

Adrian Crowley, Nick Gismondi, Scott Heyler, Troy Henderson and Nick Kozdras. Sean said most of them will find out their follow-on assignments this spring. Best wishes to you all. He also included this pic with their commanding general, Gen. John Nicholson, who Sean said graciously overlooked the fact that AFA beat his beloved Army in football to win the Commander-in-Chief’s trophy this year.

Thanks for the update Sean.

From left are warriors Sean McLay, Nick Kozdras, Scott Heyler, Gen. Nicholson, Adrian Crowley and John Beattie.

Next up, I heard from Sean “Yeti” Long, who just retired. He said he made the decision to retire after, “deciding flying UAVs wasn’t much fun anymore (ever).” He is now flying for Spirit Airlines out of Las Vegas. Sean is a fellow Airbus 320 pilot. It is an awesome jet man, with a sidestick... just like the Viper. Congrats, and welcome to the glamorous world of airline life.

A few other quick updates included a note from Jeff Dalrymple, who had just run into Bill Kossick.

Turns out Bill was a passenger in the Friendly Skies on a flight from Denver to Baltimore. He discovered that it was JD who piloted the flight as he was exiting the aircraft. Bill is getting ready to deploy to Afghanistan, then plans to retire immediately after.

Keep us posted, Bill.

Tim Sumja checked in from Moody, where he is the 23rd Fighter Group commander. He is flying the A-10 there and told me he was about to lead a flyby at an Alabama football game. In planning, Tim had a quick question for me about my famous flyby there a few years back... it looks like it worked out well, and I saw Tim on TV on the sidelines at the game. Nice work!

Speaking of football, I saw a FB post from Wade Rawlins about his son who apparently is a great soccer player and football placekicker. To make it even more awesome, I noticed that Wade’s son

is the kicker for the Lake Braddock High School football team, in Burke, VA, which is where my wife and I went to high school. Go Bruins!

Also from FB, our 1990 basic training video has been posted on the ’94 page. It’s about 45 minutes long and will probably give you nightmares about the Obstacle Course. It is fun to watch though and you’ll see a bunch of classmates in it. I caught a glimpse of C4C Kegger in an orange Barbarians jersey doing the tug-of-war. Good times... good times. The best part of this video, however, is the sound track. I haven’t been able to stop singing “Hanging Tough” by New Kids on the Block for days. Check it out!

That’s it for this time. Thanks for all the input... keep sending me stuff! Have a great Spring Break.

Rich Cimino says the snow is best at Winter Park in March. Maybe we’ll visit Grand County – Kegger

ship assignment), Jason Sutton went off to Langley to be ACC/A6, and Tommy Colvin is now the chief of Strategic Requirements at Air Force Space Command A5/8/9X. The 50th Network Operations Group provides space connectivity for the DoD and other government agencies to 175 satellites as well as providing cyber network defense, and has been selected as the lead pilot unit for the Air Force Cyber Squadron of the future.

–Craig Allen, (660) 864-5374; kegsdoolittle@ yahoo.com Greetings Classmates! I am handing off Checkpoints duties to Becky (Mason) Fox. She will take over for me next issue, so please send your updates and pictures her way at beckyfox73@hotmail. com!

I got a chance to catch up with Matt and Bethany Kozma at their lovely Christmas party in December, where I got to see their beautiful house and adorable (and well-behaved, unlike mine!) kids, and I also caught up with Steve and Pam Reny. They recently attended their son Ryan’s Basic Military Training graduation on December 30.

Ryan is carrying on the Long Blue Line tradition in the Reny family as 4th generation to serve in the Air Force (and the first out of their nest!). He is off to tech school where he will learn the trade of being an air transport specialist. Congrats, Steve and Pam!

1995

Ryan, Pam, and Steve Reny at Ryan’s BMT graduation.

I also heard from Tommy Colvin—this input was from fall 2016 so I apologize for the latency!

He sent a picture of grads leading space and cyberspace operations. On 23 June 16, Col. Scott “Danger” Angerman took command of the 50th Network Operations Group from Col. Jason Sutton (’93). Col. Tommy Colvin was the deputy group commander and commander of troops for the ceremony. Danger came to Schriever from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (I hear this was a hard-

USAFA grads leading the way in space and cyberspace ops: Jason Sutton (’93), Tommy Colvin and Scott Angerman.

Lastly, congratulations to all of our classmates who just came out on the command list in December and will be commanding wings, groups and senior materiel leader positions all over the world this summer! (My apologies in advance if I missed names—and if I did miss you, send Becky your updates and a change-of-command photo for the next edition!) ’95 grads taking command this summer include Kenyon Bell (72 ABW/CC, Tinker); Dane Crawford (18 ASOG/CC, Pope); Phil Acquaro (55 ECG/CC, Davis-Monthan); Jon Rhone (505 T&E/CC, Nellis); Mike Rimsky (39 ABW/CV, Incirlik); Chris Austin (56 FW/ CV, Luke); Chad Balettie (355 FW/CV); Jason Cockrum (35 OG/CC, Misawa); Michael Curly (23 OG/CC Moody); Members Bill Denham (14 FTW/CV, 76% Columbus); Dan Gable (419 FW/CV, Hill); Brian Jackson (20 OG/CC, Shaw); Christian Kane (325 OG/CC, Tyndall); Travis Koch (3 OG/CC, Elmendorf); Ray Millero (57 OG/CC, Nellis); Doug Musselman (611 ASOC/ Sabre Society Donors CC, Elmendorf); Brian Pat7 terson (49 WG/CV, Holloman); Brian Schafer (53 T&E/CC, Nellis); Shane Steinke (332 AEW/CV, Jordan); Dave Abba (53 WG/CC, Eglin); Jason Bailey (52 FW/ CC, Spangdahlem); Bill Betts (51 FW/CC, Osan); Andrea (Rolfe) Themely (80 FTW/CC, Sheppard); Paul Brezinski (49 MDG/CC, Holloman); Jeff Kronewitter (NASIC GP/CC, Wright-Patterson); Bill Barrington (91 MXG/CC, Minot); John Frazier (314 MXG/CC, Little Rock); Chad Bondurant (354 MSG/CC, Eielson); Tommy Colvin (821 ABG/CC, Thule); Kevin Johnson (7 MSG/CC, Dyess); Dee J Katzer (380 EMSG/CC, UAE); John Norton (55 MSG/CC Offutt); Jim Hackbarth (317 AG/CC, Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS Dyess); Otis Jones (19 OG/CC, Little Rock); Chris Lambert (19 AW/CV, Little Rock); Dave LeRoy (305 AMW/CV, McGuire); Harmon Lewis (3 WG/CV, Elmendorf); Robert Nance (436 OG/CC, Dover); Lisa (Varacins) Nemeth (6 OG/CC, MacDill); Renae (Bartalone) Hilton (4 Field Investigations Gp/CC, Randolph); Chad Davis (SIGINT SPO SML, Chantilly); Kevin Sellers (Galaxy Division SML, Robins); Rich Carrell (58 OG/CC, Kirtland); Shawn Cochran (449 Air Exp Gp/CC, Dijibouti); Scott Grundahl (811 OG/CC, Andrews); Mike Jackson (27 SOG/ CC, Cannon); Scott Trinrud (OG/CC, Buckley); Jen Grant (50 SW/CC, Schriever); and Scott Cain (AEDC/CC, Arnold TN). If I inadvertently missed your name my apologies—it was a long list!

Thanks for allowing me the privilege of being your scribe these last two years. I have enjoyed hearing updates on all of you, and I am sure in the future I will be back to write again next time it is my turn. Hopefully by then I’ll be living in Tahiti on a beach with a margarita in my hand. Until then, remember to send Becky your updates and Keep the Pride! Andrea –Andrea Themely, andrea.themely@gmail. com New scribe: –Becky Fox, 646 SE 37th Ave., Homestead, FL 33033; beckyfox73@hotmail.com; rebecca.fox@us.af.mil; cell: (928) 302-8989 So much has gone on in our country since our last update; we’ll take a few minutes to focus purely on our classmates. Lots of good news for our class this past quarter—I’ll start with a few Reserve promotions to colonel: Tracy (Dupree) Coyne, Eve Douglas, Kristin (Peterson) Ader and Rosadel (Dominguez) Hoffman.

Quick update from Rose: she has been in the NCR as a reservist since she separated from active duty in 2003. Most of her time has been in the Reserve GO Management Office overseeing senior leader career management, but she escaped the Pentagon in 2015 and is currently working on JB Anacostia-Bolling as the program manager for all AF IMAs in the NCR assigned to SAF/HAF, OSD, JCS, and Defense Agencies. She has two kids, Krysten (15) and Daniel (13) and her husband, Louis Hoffman, just retired from the AF in December 2016. With her upcoming promotion, the entire family is anxiously awaiting news on her next assignment and looking forward to new adventures away from D.C. traffic.

1996

The Hoffman family 140 · usafa.org

And we had a few of our Medical Corps members promoted to colonel as well: Ed Anderson, Rob Eller (San Antonio, TX), Jeff Skinner, Shea Brannan (still in Florida), J. Beard (Dover AFB, DE), and Colleen McBratney (recently married and stationed at Davis Monthan AFB, Tuscon, AZ).

We’ve had a few new additions to the TAB family this past quarter. Kara (Parks) Fontenot and her partner, James Vander Salm, welcomed daughter, Majorie Parks Vander Salm, on 12 September.

Natalie and Nicole, Kara’s daughters with Morris “Moose” Fontenot, now a senior and junior in high school are welcoming their baby sister and deciding which colleges to attend. In December I got a chance to catch up with our newest legacy, Timothy Cunningham, son of Fred (’94) and Melissa (Davidson) Cunningham. Timmy was born on 6 December shortly after Fred landed in DC. Mom is doing great, managing three kiddos and getting ready to PCS to Tinker AFB as the 38 Cyberspace Group commander.

Also headed to Tinker is Gavin Marks, who is headed there to be the 552d Air Control Wing vice commander. Brandon Parker was selected as commander of 7th Bomb Wing at Dyess AFB, TX. Mark Robinson is headed to the sandbox as the vice commander of the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing at Al Dhafra. Hall Sebren will be commanding the 8th Maintenance Group at Kunsan AB, ROK. Randy Oakland will be joining a large San Antonio contingent as he becomes the vice commander of the 12th Flying Training Wing at JBSA-Randolph. We will have a couple of vice wing commanders in USAFE: Ron Cheatham at the 501st Combat Support Wing (Alconbury, UK) and Tad “TC” Clark at Spangdahlem. Tony Babcock is headed out to Joint Base Lewis-McChord as the 62nd Maintenance Group commander. Dave Owens will be the commander, 317 Mobility Wing at Little Rock AFB, AR; Cameron Pringle will be the vice commander at Beale AFB, CA; Chad Schrecengost will command the 82nd Mission Support Group at Sheppard AFB, TX; and Dan Walls will be run the 51st Operations Group on Osan AB. I apologize if I missed someone—just let me know and I’ll push it out to the group.

Pat Ryan checked in from Minnesota where he has been living with his wife, Elise, and two daughters since separating in 2004. He works for Depuy Synthes Joint Reconstruction on the sales side the last 13 years.

Pat Ryan and family at the reunion.

Matt Tieman is one of the growing number of retirees from our class. He is enjoying life as a contractor at Holloman AFB, NM, teaching F-16 academics and running the simulators at the new Viper school house. He is enjoying his new mountain paradise located at 7,000 feet and, while it’s not quite COS, he loves his job and the quality of life. Devin Traynor is a test pilot flying a desk at the Pentagon in the AF F-35 Integration Office.

Matt Van is a regional manager for FedEx Supply Chain in the Nashville, TN, area. Brandon Stadel is flying for Delta from Iowa and is in the Battle Creek, Michigan Guard “flying” the mighty MQ-9 Reaper (I know, I know, don’t send me hate mail, those were his quotation marks).

Matt Linnell and his family (wife and three kids) are living in Mesa, AZ and he flies for SWA. Jeff Hansen works as the VP of investor relations for Marriott Vacations Worldwide in Orlando. He maintains and grows the shareholder base since the company spun off from Marriott about five years ago.

While he lives in Orlando, much of his work is in New York. Sounds like a good guy to stay in touch with if you do Members much traveling. Noel Lipana 69% retired from California ANG in October 2016 and he’s currently a doctoral candidate at USC’s Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and doing work-study for USC’s Center for Innovation for Veterans and Sabre Society Military Families. He and his Donors wife are expecting a baby in 7 May. At a recent retirement he ran into Joey Gower (“Huzzah!”) and is hoping to link up with Jason Hoskins when he PCSes to Travis AFB this summer. Ike Williams retired from the AF last August and currently instructs at the B-1 schoolhouse at Dyess AFB (classroom and simulator instruction). He and his family (wife and four kids) have a house on Lake Fort Phantom near Abilene, so there has been lots of swimming and fishing. They are also working through the adoption process to adopt a sibling group from Columbia in thr fall of 2017.

Just as I was sending this off to the AOG an active duty colonel promotion list was dropped on my desk. Congrats to the following TAB colonel selects: Jeff Allison, Kevin Allred, Juan Alvarez, Shawn Anger, Michael Artelli, Jason Avram, Lisle Babcock, Christopher Barber, Clayton Bartels, Kevin Beeker, Derek Blough, Elizabeth Boehm, John Boehm, Kenneth Boillot, Donald Brunk, Michael Cabral, Maurizio Calabrese, Christopher Clark, Will Clark, Dominic Clementz, Carolyn Coleman, Ted Conklin, Jasin Cooley, Shawn Covault, Martin Daack, Sara Deaver, Doug Distaso, Jonathan Downing, Brad Downs, Harry Dyson, Mike Fellona, David Ferris, Steve Fino, Jesse Friedel, William Fry, Jay Gibson, James Hall, Tiaa Henderson, David Henshaw, Darin Hoenle, Jeff Hogan, Merna Hsu, Jared Hutchinson, Ann Igl, Chad Igl, Jonathan King, Christopher Lanier,

Ryan Link, Scott Logan, Geoff Lohmiller, Patrick Long, Kristi Lowenthal, John Ludington III, Eric Mack, Stephen Matthews, Chris McCarthy, Scott Morrison, Chris Nemeth, Daniel Nielsen, Patrick Obruba, Edward Phillips, Gary Rafnson, Kirk Reagan, Glenn Rineheart, Bryce Silver, Greg Soderstrom, MackJan Spencer, Corban Spraker, Michael Starr, Tom Ste. Marie, Julian Stephens, Kelley “KC” Stevens, Chris Stoppel, Joyce (Gange) Storm, Jason Terry, Devin Traynor, Jobie Turner, Chris Van Hoof, Jeremy Vickers, Scott Walker, Brandon Wilkerson, Adrienne (Fleming) Williamsand David Winebrener.

Hope your 2017 is off to a good start—I look forward to hearing from more of you soon.

rently the deputy maintenance group commander out at Travis AFB, CA. Kristi is a California native and staff trainer at the University of California, Davis. Following the wedding, the couple honeymooned in Rome, Venice, Paris and London.

–Andi Vinyard, andivinyard@yahoo.com; andrea. vinyard@us.af.mil

1997

Greetings ’97!

As always, hope this update finds you well. Last quarter I reported on Alfred Martinez wedding rumors. No “fake news” here -- here are the facts. Alf married Allison Majni this past October in Houston, TX. The wedding ceremony was at the South Texas College of Law Houston, where Allison and Alf met and both graduated. Alf’s best men were classmates Mathew Contreras and Rob Odom.

Several USAFA grads attended, and Alf provided class-colored baseball caps for each of them.

Pictured in caps from left are Members Tim Sehnem, Steve Strah 74% (’94), Jerry Reyes, Matthew Contreras, Darren Ellisor, Greg Krino, John Christ (’96), Alfred Martinez, Jim Binns, Wallis Laughrey (’98), Brian Groat (’97), Rob Odom, and Jim Huscroft (’95). (See photo Sabre Society Donors at bottom of the page.)

Speaking of October wed11 dings... Phil Dorsch and his bride, Kristi, had a small family wedding at the Travis Air Force Base Chapel this past fall. Phil is cur-

Kristi and Phil Dorsch Many people are wondering about dates for the 20-year reunion. As of the time of this writing, the date is still pending the finalization of the Mountain West Conference football schedule, but I imagine it will be well known by the time this is published. Eric Springer sent in a photo of a minireunion that took place at the Maxwell AFB, AL, Officer’s Club this December. Pictured from left are Matt Vann, Jim Govin, Eric, Kevin Fenno, Greg Nita, and Mike Kowal.

’97 Reunion Primer!

Here are a few more quick updates. Got a photo of Jeff Payne, Matthew Berg and Pat Suermann out at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas for the Air Force vs New Mexico game. Unfortunately, I had too many photos to include it for this update. Jeff is working

USAFA class spirit at Alf’s wedding!

as air liaison officer and civilian civil engineer in the Dallas-Ft Worth area. Matt is a global quality manager for a large company out of Houston and Pat is down at the AF Installation and Mission Support Center in San Antonio where construction is nearly complete on the house he and his family are building.

Was TDY out at Nellis at the ACC Weapons and Tactics Conference outbrief and ran into classmates Sean Monteiro, Roger Maldanado and Samantha Weeks (Glinksi). Samantha leads the 57th Adversary Tactics Group at Nellis. I also got to have a quick dinner with Chris Kay who leads the Nellis contracting squadron and was bemoaning the physical toll of getting old.

Got to catch up one afternoon with Brad Holtmeier in Los Angeles. Brad continues work as a partner at CriticalPoint Capital, a Los Angelesbased private equity firm. Brad remarked about Chris Gizzi, the coaching job he’s doing with the Green Bay Packers and this year’s great playoff run.

Congrats to Chris for a great season.

Had dinner the other night with Jiffy Seto and his family who just made O-6 and is pending a move this summer. Jiffy mentioned getting to fly with Craig Moe on his fini-flight just prior to his retirement ceremony this past January. That’s all I have for this round. Until next time… Mel –Melvin E. Maxwell, Jr., 4660 4th St. South, Arlington, VA 22204; mel_maxwell97@hotmail. com; melvin.e.maxwell2.mil@mail.mil ’98. This will just be a quick update, mostly because I was slow getting material.

Have you ever been caught gazing at the mountains on the Terrazzo then forced to say “I like this place. I think I’ll buy it?”

Well, Charley Parent and Melissa (Cabot) Parent did exactly that with a place nearby. Charley was teaching at the Academy, and they were raising their four kids in the shadow of the Front Range.

Then, the assignment cycle caught up to him. Now he is down at Maxwell, living in a van down by the river (10% rule). Melissa is holding down the fort while still serving in the Reserves, and jet-setting around the world with her Members other job.

69% Other job? Yes. Melissa started as a Rodan + Fields consultant as a part-time job, but in true Dominator style, she’s taken that job and climbed to the top 1% in production. R+F has given Melissa a Lexus and Sabre Society Donors sent her to sandy, exotic places, and I am not talking about 9 Southwest Asia.

The amazing thing to me, though, is that she is not alone at the top. Cilla (Peterek) Parkison, Lauren (Eckert) Myers, and Jen (Engh) Griswold ’00

1998

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS are also doing incredibly well with the company.

They also came together in an R+F group called Team GiVe (Genuine.Inspired.Vibrant.Entrepreneurs) sharing their success and supporting causes like autism research and empowering military spouses. Last year, Team GiVe worked with R+F to donate $40,000 to the Knights of Heroes. It’s an organization in Colorado that puts on a summer camp for kids who have lost a parent in military service. There must be some common thread that makes Academy training conducive to selling skincare products, but I have no idea what it could be.

Melissa (Cabot) Parent and Lauren (Eckert) Myers with their Lexuses (or is it Lexii?) courtesy of Rodan & Fields.

That’s it for this edition. I feel shame that it is over so quick. I hope to have many more stories for you in the summer. You could be in the next Checkpoints by sending an update to usafa98@ gmail.com.

still looks exactly the same as he did when he was a cadet, and has not gained an ounce of fat; -- Mark Ellis just wanted everyone to know that Kari shares his last name; -- Shawna Bowshot (Wartner) just wants everyone to know that she actually can have fun in Hap’s Place; and -- Chris Papa wanted me Members to reiterate that he techni72% cally is not an LOD, but he is important enough that USAFA asked him to be at the conference. This motley crew also sent in two photos, with context: The first pic was taken in the new building housing the Sabre Society Donors Center for Character and Lead12 ership Development (CCLD), called Polaris Hall, or as the cadets say, P-Hall, which is right next to A-Hall.

Inside P-Hall is where they now hold honor boards, among other things. The pic was taken inside that exact room. We wanted to look professional for you and our fellow Shiners.

–Christopher Ulish, (405) 476-6807; usafa98@ gmail.com Shiners… how’s life? Here is what is going on with those of us who have recently been Rocky Mountain High: Doug Vetrano checked in from the Admissions Liaison Officer (ALO) Liaison Officer Director (LOD) Conference held last October. Basically, as ALOs, these ’99ers recruit, mentor and evaluate those candidates wishing to enter USAFA. As LODs, these folks are the leadership of geographic areas. Doug graciously provided “just the facts” to allow me creative license, but I thought these facts stood on their own: -- Bobby Wolfe begged me to submit another photo of him so he could be included in backto-back Checkpoint publications, a class first, I believe. He thinks he looks cooler in uniform than in his racing suit anyway; -- Kari Ellis (Hamilton) wanted me to share this photo with you and let everyone know that while she and I are technically the same rank, and both pin-on Lt Col come 2 Jun 17 (along with the rest of the O-4 Shiners in the pics), that she actually has more sway over me when it comes to our USAFA ALO chain of command, as I have to directly report through her, and she approves all my points; -- Connie Holen (Cann) just wanted everyone to know she still exists after 17 years in hiding; -- Ron Killens wanted to show everyone that he

1999

142 · usafa.org

The second picture is from inside A-Hall, at Hap’s Place, which they have relocated to the other side of A-Hall and substantially upgraded. Now, we would have all had a shot of Goldschlager in our hands, had Hap’s not run out of Goldschlager.

I guess the classes who came after us thought that we had such a great class drink, they wanted to emulate us. Apparently, Hap’s cannot even keep Goldschlager stocked it is so popular.

out my 20 as an ALO. While in the Springs last fall, Connie also met up with Michelle Harris (Edberg) who’s an MD at the cadet clinic, Katie Smits (Burke) who teaches CE at Colorado School of Mines, and of course, Amy Shertzer (Fitch) who keeps everyone connected and has her own photography business now.

And Bobby provided updates on several fellow Floridians and some other friends: Ben Moe, Justin Loosvelt and Robyn Hinchey are all alive and well down here in Tampa, FL. Matty Laurentz just moved to the Panhandle (Shane Decker lives up there also as a retiree), and rumor has it that Dan McBroom is moving to Colorado Springs. I’m sure we all saw the latest on Otis Hooper and Naviere Walkewicz (Hall) who are competing in fitness competitions at the Olympia level... pretty incredible. Nathan Atherley is now the COO at Rackware in Utah and doing great things out West. Joel Neeb was recently named president at Afterburner, Inc. and is sharing his powerful story about beating cancer then returning to the cockpit. Scott Hebbeler was recently named managing director at Lincoln Financial after putting in 10-plus years of hard work in the investment banking sector. John Campbell lives in Jacksonville, FL. He survived Hurricane Matthew and recently joined the ALO team.

Michelle Nunez also sent in a quick update from Colorado: Our own Todd Benson just finished a two-year squadron commander gig this summer and is now back out on the East Coast at Harvard for the next year or so working on getting smarter.

And Shiners continue to do good things out here in the 310 Space Wing -- Shanna Corbett and I have had the fun of working together as ADOs for the last year – Shanna just got picked up as DO for the 310 OSS – good for her! Our own Jim Taggart has also moved up from squadron command – he recently became the deputy group commander of the 310 OG – way to go Jim! As for me, I continue to work for another Academy grad as the ADO, which is always an adventure.

Thanks for all the intel, classmates!

-Mary Stewart, Arlington, VA; marybeth 1999@ hotmail.com; mary.stewart@pentagon.af.mil

2000

Connie also let me know about a few more of our classmates and what’s up with her and Wade.

She’s married to Wade Holen, and they have four boys and are living just outside of Lincoln, NE. Wade flies for Delta and is in the Nebraska ANG. We decided three pilot jobs was one too many for our family, so I recently left the Guard to finish

Hey Gang!

Wow, haven’t heard that in a long while… any Go-Lo sightings lately? Last time I saw him was when I did a Vector session with the Class of 2018 during their Doolie year. By the way, I asked one of them if they’re called SMACKs anymore, and they did not even understand what I was asking, but noted that it sounded “derogatory” -- I accidently laughed. Speaking of current cadet classes, get out there and cheer on our USAFA teams.

Here is Hans Anker with his kids, watching the AF Falcons strike down West Point -- way to represent, Anker family!

The Anker family Bryan Trinkle retired recently and is in Colorado enjoying all that it has to offer while travelling already for his new job as manager of Business Development at Black Diamond Advanced Technology. Other than medical retirements and early ones, I think he’s one of the first that I know of to get to the full retirement zone – kudos for setting a good example Trink, and already back at working on new ideas that are making an impact. Tracy (Tinianow) Bozung finished her residency in Aerospace Medicine this summer and was picked up for command of the 23rd AMDS at Moody so she and her family are moving south when she completes training in Ohio.

Casey (Tinianow) Parini is separating from the AF this spring and moving to a private practice in Grand Rapids, MI. Members Katrine Waterman was asked 67%

by AFRC A4 to fill an active duty deputy group commander position at the 305th MXG, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ. So, she is on orders until June 2018 as the deputy MXG on the McGuire side. Katrine Sabre Society PCSed from Dallas, TX up to Donors New Jersey just in time for a 12 good snow storm at the end of December, but she reports that she loves the job. The 305th AMW has both KC-10 and C-17 aircraft and are looking to get the KC-46 in just a few years down the road, so she’s keeping them flying.

Dr. Bessie (Fontenot) Granier, PhD, is an assistant professor with the Biology Department at St. Louis CC Meramec now and recently caught up with Brooke (Page) Matson at the St. Louis Alumni Chapter’s Army vs AF Football Game Watch Party Nov. 5, 2016. Brooke just moved to Scott AFB and had a baby! They were hoping to also catch up with Nadine (Lynn) Landrum who is also stationed at Scott, but with kids and other weekend activities it didn’t happen. Bessie notes that she’ll plan a more kid-friendly outing at the St. Louis Zoo once the weather warms, and invites all Scott-area classmates and family to come out. Here is a picture of Brook and Bessie at the game viewing party.

Elizabeth says to all the Scott and St. Louis area grads, “Come join us at the alumni events; the St. Louis crew is lots of fun!”

As for me, I am currently TDY to Colorado Springs, representing 11 AF, Alaskan NORAD Region, and the Alaskan Air Defense Sector for the NORAD & USNORTHCOM J6 Summit followed by the AF Cyberspace Symposium, while running into several of our classmates. My wife, Melissa, and I welcomed our third Simmons princess into the world in December, so I’ll close with this latest family picture of us.

for the long haul and is raising a beautiful family.

Brian and Katie (Vreuls) Mills stopped by this December on their way from Orlando to Michigan for the holidays. Brian is at Stryker Medical, while Katie is rounding the corner on her third year of medical school at the University of Central Florida.

Jordan Collins is at Air Force Safety Center for the Board Members President Course with four 69% other ’01ers. Nancy (Rosenow) Taylor is at Little Rock AFB and is the DO for the 61st AS. Joey Sullivan is at Kirtland AFB and the DO of the 58th TRS. Mike Pasquino is currently at Sabre Society NORTHCOM in the J4 directorDonors ate, and heading to McChord 10 to be the chief of Safety this summer. Jay Agnew is the chief of Safety at the 89th AW. Jordan is currently the chief of Safety at Fairchild AFB. He also refueled against Steph (Boff) Severe, Heather Huot, and Mike Masuda two days before Christmas. Heather flashed the ’01 up to my boom operator.

The Simmons family from left are Lillian, Melissa, Santa, Jocelyn, Jason and Allison.

–Jason Simmons, 1218B Tomahawk Drive, JB Elmendorf-Richardson, AK 99505; Jason.Simmons@Outlook.com Hello ’01ers, Not much to report this time around but thank you to those who sent me some updates!

Tim Spaulding and Matt Obenchain are at Wright-Pat, moving acquisitions along on the KC-46 and the T-X, respectively.

Matt’s getting ready to head back to the Academy to teach this summer. They both live just a few miles away from Amy (Abraham) Honaker, who’s settled in Dayton

2001

From left are Brian Mills, Katie (Vreuls) Mills, Tim Spaulding, and Matt Obenchain.

From left are Nancy (Rosenow) Taylor, Joey Sullivan, Mike Pasquino, Jay Agnew and Jordan Collins.

Dan Daehler sent a great update: We, the 944th OG/Det 2, Luke AFB (AFRC), just trained the first Israeli F-35 pilots and delivered the first F-35s to Israel in December. On 12 Dec 16, Dan “Chip’n” Daehler ’01 and Elijah “Animal” Supper ’06 landed at Nevatim AFB, Israel, delivering the first F-35s to Israel and the first in the Middle East. The ceremony was attended by PM Netanyahu, President Rivulin, the US SECDEF, Israeli chiefs of staff, and approximately 4,000 Israeli citizens. The 944th OG/ Det 2 simultaneously conducted mobile training

Dan Daehler and other USAFA grads delivering the first F-35s to Israel.

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS team (MTT) ops to help the Israeli Air Force stand up F-35 operations. Additional Det 2 USAFA grads on the MTT included: Sean “Hooligan” Holahan ’98, Eric “Bodhi” Puels ’99, Justin “Tang” Robinson ’00, Dave “Fuge” Francis ’00, Wyckliffe “Slammer” Furcron ’02, and Michael “Frog” Hobson ’05. Very cool!

Thanks again for the updates and keep them coming! Faith –Faith (Hitchcock) Dunn, 6423 NW 94th Court, Johnston, IA 50131; Faithd03@hotmail.com Class of 2002! I hope everyone is getting ready for some warm spring weather. This is just a quick update for the class and a request to please send me a quick email or Facebook message with a pic so that I can throw it into the summer Checkpoints update.

The AOG just created a mobile app that you can download to your phone if you want to keep in touch with USAFA happenings.

2002

Joe Epperson, Michael Granberry and Wes Bennett met up at the Marine Memorial outside of Washington, DC. Class Sightings: Air Force Football made it easy on John Korinko to watch the 10-3 Falcons play in his hometown of Tucson for the Arizona Bowl. John is working as a financial analyst at Chamberlain. Matt Horner just graduated from Florida State with a PhD in sports manageMembers ment. Katherine (Powell) 67% Harding and Brooke (Bauer) Bozarth caught up in Tampa around Thanksgiving. Even though it had been a while since they had seen each other it was like no time had passed at all once they got a chance to Sabre Society Donors hang out again.

3 Tim Metz and Jerad Hand met up for some air refueling on Veterans Day when Tim provided some fuel from his KC-135 out of McConnell AFB for Jerad 144 · usafa.org

in his A-10. It looked like a beautiful day to fly! Joe Epperson, Michael Granberry and Wes Bennett rallied in D.C. for a long awaited mini-reunion.

Joe Epperson is out of the active duty Air Force now and lives in Tuscaloosa, AL, with his wife. Wes Bennett lives in Northern Virginia and works at DARPA. He is married with two children. Michael Granberry is stationed at Whiteman AFB as the T-38 CTP ADO. He is married and has three kids: Atlas, Leo and Gretta.

They Just Kept Running: Miranda (Baldwin) Lashinski finished her 16th marathon and Christopher Adams and his wife, Ann, ran both the Star Wars Rebel Challenge 10K and half marathon at Disneyland this past January, which he claims was way more bad ass than the Tinkerbell 5K.

Brock and Kelly Hennigh Wedding at the USAFA Cadet Chapel.

Weddings: Brock and Kelly Hennigh were married at the Cadet Chapel on Sept. 17, 2016, followed by a reception at The Pinery at The Hill. Classmates in attendance included Matt Sakowitz, Rich Adams, Tony Straw, Mickey Voxland, Rob Stelling (’03), Curtis Cunningham and Greg Starling.

Continuing to Serve the Public: Andy Coleman served as an Intel officer while on active duty and after separating from the Air Force he went to the University of Kansas Law School. He briefly entered private legal practice with an international law firm and now he is the first member of our class to announce his candidacy for the US Congress. He is running to represent Oklahoma’s First Congressional District. You can check out his platform on AndyColeman.org.

Viva Las Vegas! When you guys don’t send me enough updates and pictures I am forced to talk about myself. So here is a quick update since I need to fill some space. After back-to-back C-5 assignments at Travis and then Dover flying all over the world, Eric Ballew volunteered for RPAs in Las Vegas. I flew both the MQ-1 and MQ-9 and separated from active duty last December and the very next day I was a member of the Nevada Air National Guard as a part-time test pilot. I am continuing to fly full time as an instructor pilot with General Atomics. While we absolutely love living in Las Vegas, I also miss the opportunity to put on the flight suit every day, but I am honored to still be able to serve in the Guard while being home every night to do kids sports and family stuff with my wife, Renee, and our three kids Tyler (7) Ashley (5) and Natalie (1). It’s awesome to have world-class “date nights” 10 minutes from our house and catch up with tons of friends and classmates who are passing through Nellis AFB for training, flying into McCarran Airport as an airline pilot or just out for a weekend vacation on the Strip. Definitely say “hi” the next time you are in town and wake up on the roof of Caesars Palace… don’t worry I checked and it is still pager friendly!

Check in with Checkpoints: The editors at Checkpoints want you to send a hi-res (300 DPI) digital image of you and your Checkpoints magazine at a unique locale (say on top of Mount Kilimanjaro) or cool event (like at the World Series) and your photo could end up on the State of Mind page in the magazine. Email editor@aogusafa. org Also as always continue to update me with your latest job moves and family updates anytime something cool happens! Keep taking photos and posting them to Facebook or email me anytime so I can keep our classmates updated on what’s new!

We now have a Facebook page and a class page on LinkedIn so come join the party!

–Eric Ballew, World Cell: +.850.543.9936; ericballew86@yahoo.com; eric.ballew@us.af. mil; Class Facebook: USAFA Class of 2002; Class Website: www.usafa02.org Hi Bongers, I hope the New Year finds you all doing well. We had a mini-reunion at my house in Virginia in December just before Christmas.

Laura Stepko came into town during a visit back to the States.

She is a territory manager for Boston Scientific in England and loves living overseas. Marta (Nyberg) Lofthouse, her husband, Nick Lofthouse, who flies the F-22, and their four kids are completing a staff tour to the Pentagon. Charity Winters is a physical therapist and AF civilian working at Andrews AFB in Maryland. Janet (Modell) Tauer, her husband, Tommy Tauer, who is a test pilot, and their two kids live in Arlington where Tommy works at DARPA. Kay (Knapp) Holt, her husband, JD Holt (’93), and their two kids live in Old Town, Alexandria. Heidi (McKinley) Schlagheck Face-

2003

Eric Ballew and wife, Renee, with kids Tyler, Ashley and Natalie loaded up on candy at Mickey’s Halloween Bash.

can download and save a copy for your files. Ok, enough administrivia! We’d love to hear how you’re doing. Please send updates to our class gmail account. Take care, Susan –Susan Lynn (Doyle) Maly, Linked In: USAFA03; USAFA2003@gmail.com; Class Facebook Page: Usafa Zerothree This quarter, I am not sure how to begin our class news.

Perhaps with the brightness of beginnings. Let me wish you and your families a warm and happy 2017! This will surely be a year filled with change, but what remains ever constant is this Long Blue Line we can use to trace our timeless bonds.

The Goodale family is beginning a challenging new chapter in their lives, but the faith and spirit with which they face very day is a testament to the legacy of our beloved classmate. You will find his obituary in the “Gone But Not Forgotten” section, so I won’t repeat that information here. But this section is for us. Honestly, I thought by now I would have found the words I wanted to say to you all, or to say on behalf of those of us Ready for Warriors who knew and loved him…but I haven’t.

So here is what I can say.

For those who didn’t know him, I can tell you he had an Members inner light and joy, a whole73% hearted laugh, a warm kindness, a willingness to give his precious time and attention to strangers and friends alike, an endless capacity for empathy and compassion, a goofy sense Sabre Society of humor, an ability to sleep Donors through the loudest alarms or 5 blaring music (as roommates and neighbors may recall), a boundless faith and a sense of honor and duty to the people and values he held most dear.

Those who knew Dave also know the truth of those words, as I’ve seen the same themes in your Facebook posts and stories shared around dining tables, the hospital, the chapel and everywhere else he brought us together this past year. More than a classmate, pilot/crew member or friend, to many he was also a brother.

For those who were unable to make it to his funeral, I can tell you the Cadet Chapel pews were lined with row upon row of service dress, as well as friends and family from all stages of his life. I can tell you the chaplain (also a family member) reminded us there’s no shame in grief, his parents made us laugh, and his wife gave us hope. I can tell you at the gravesite the wind whipped around fiercely during the folding of the flag, the 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps, reminiscent of every Terrazzo Taps vigil we attended as cadets, as if Dave was bidding us a final farewell. I can tell you the reception overflowed with love and hugs, photos

2004

Laura Stepko, Charity Winters, Marta (Nyberg) Lofthouse, Susan (Doyle) Maly, Heidi (McKinley) Schlagheck via FaceTime, Kay (Knapp) Holt, and Janet (Modell) Tauer.

Timed into the festivities. She, her husband, Chris Schlagheck, and their three kids are 1.5 years into their assignment in LA. Greg, Naomi and I are still in Falls Church and welcomed the newest member of our family, Lydia Grace Maly, in January. It was great to see everyone and catch up.

We also heard from Justin Chandler who sent a picture from a recent trip to Normandy.

Justin Chandler and Gabe Arrington on the beach at Normandy as part of the SAASS Class XXVI Field Practicum.

Two administrative notes. First, if you are part of the IRR and have not resigned your commission you may want to check with AFPC to see if you are still in the Air Force. Several classmates were honorably discharged by presidential order in the summer of 2016; however, they were not notified of the discharge from service. You can create an account at http://www.ebenefits.va.gov to request copies of all of your Members Air Force paperwork. Like 71% the DD214, it’s a good idea to have the discharge paperwork on hand. Second, if you have deployed and were exposed to potential hazards via burn pits, you can sign up for the Airborne Hazards & Open Burn Sabre Society Pit Registry to document your Donors exposure (http://www.pub5 lichealth.va.gov/exposures/ burnpits/index.asp) The survey already has close to 100,000 participants and takes about 15 minutes to complete. It’s not compatible with Microsoft Edge so try IE. After submitting, you

and music, laughter and tears, as strangers bonded over a shared gratitude for having known Dave, and classmates and friends reunited after years spread across globe. And I can tell you when that long day turned into night, and the night drew to a close, none of us was ready to let go. So we won’t.

Dave lives on in each of us who knew him, through the impact he had on our lives. Truly, he is Gone But Not Forgotten.

Maj. Dave Goodale: Here’s a toast…

Another classmate’s family has also been struggling with illness for the past several months. Zach Miller’s wife, Kaley, was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2016. After extensive surgery, the doctors recommended even more follow-up treatment they weren’t sure they could afford. Brittany (Smith) Joseph shared their story with me through https://youcaring.com/kaleymiller-687640. I suspect many of you also read it, as the Millers exceeded their fundraising goal! The latest update I saw on that page, from 7 Dec 2016, reported that Kaley’s latest tumor marker test was clear. May this test also mark the beginning of a strong and healthy year of full recovery!

In more good news, Jason Spindler reached out from deployment-land to share yet another minireunion! Besides crossing paths at the Combined Air Operations Center (CAOC) with more than 50 grads, ranging from classes 1985 to 2014, Jason met with the best of the best (our class, of course!) and captured the moment for posterity. Thanks for sharing the update, Jason, and our best to all of you out there—thank you for all you do. Hope you can begin the trip home to your loved ones soon!

Jason Spindler, Trent Bower and Chris Wallace represent us at the CAOC. Lastly, I’ve seen and heard about recent weddings and other glad tidings over the past few months, but as many of you know, I never share in Checkpoints unless I have permission. So congratCheckpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS ulations and best wishes—you know who you are!

Please send us updates and pics when you can.

To everyone, thanks for the constant reminders that this ’04 family is always close at heart, even (perhaps especially) in the toughest of circumstances. Cheers to new beginnings.

–Breezy Long, windyshort@gmail.com Strivers, I did not receive any updates for this issue of Checkpoints.

However, there have been some of us showing up in the news recently that I wanted to highlight.

First, on Nov. 9, 2016, our very own Matthew Kuta was awarded the 2016 Col. James Jabara Award for Airmanship at the Academy. He was nominated for the award for his heroic actions in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria in 2014. The nomination read, “Major Kuta’s ability to effectively employ weapons in three nations, each with different rules of engagement, while leading young officers into combat, is exactly the type of officer the U.S. Air Force Academy seeks to develop.” Matt is Members the 55th Academy graduate to 76% be selected for the award. The award is given on behalf of the Academy, the Association of Graduates, and the Jabara family. Congratulations Matt and thanks for all that you do.

In other great news, Priscilla Sabre Society Donors Giddings was elected to the Idaho House of Representa5 tives as the representative for District 7A this past November. Priscilla defeated an incumbent in her primary with an astonishing 61 percent of the vote and then bested her challenger in the general election by garnering more than 70 percent of the vote. Priscilla, we wish you all the best and know that you are going to make us proud.

If you have any updates that you would like us to share in a future issue of Checkpoints, please feel free to reach out to me at my email listed below or ask to join our Class of 2005 Facebook page. You can find us by searching for “USAFA Class of 2005.”

I hope everyone has a safe and comfortable winter, and I look forward to hearing from you in the future.

All the best. John Tamasitis

2005

Hello 2006. I hope this message finds you well. Just a couple quick notes from those who submitted me an update. By the way, anyone else doing ACSC via correspondence! Ouch…

First to call out an update was the only classmate I know who flies the F-35: Elijah “Animal” Supper. He was gracious enough to let me know that he had just delivered the first F-35 to our sister country of Israel. All I can say is what an honor that must have been, and a great experience no less! For those that hide under a rock, there are plenty of videos out there that captured “Animal” in the moments upon arrival, as well as a little narrative of him in front of the camera. Please have a look if you have not seen it. To those of us who still call you Eli, keep doing great things brutha!

Here is a picture to capture the moment he took aim at two national flags upon arrival! Great shot!

2006

In other expanding family news, our unstoppable Amy Justus (Gilliland) sent a quick note to let us know the following, “Our little one, Jayden is getting promoted to big brother in May then pack up and move to D.C. Lots of changes coming Members our way this summer!” Those 77% who don’t know… there is a little five-sided building in Washington that sucks the life out of people… and Amy is headed there. Amy… thank you! Better you than me girl. But congrats on the new baby to be and Sabre Society Donors thanks for taking one for the team. I know it was a tough but 6 good decision.

–John Tamasitis, 825 Kinlock Court, Columbia, SC 29223; jgtamasitis@gmail.com; Cell: (803) 3602970

The Justus family: Jake, Jayden and Amy. In other news that almost piqued my interest, Phillip “Phil” DeLong promised to send an update, but he tricked me. With that said, it was 146 · usafa.org

still great to see him at the reunion… looking good dude! Speaking of reunion… how many of you are interested in a 15-year reunion? I know it has been brought up... so if we want it… let’s go get it. Over to you Justin Gabbard!

Thanks to those who provided updates this time around, and spread the word to others that I will gladly accept more. As for me (ShawnSchuuuuulz), I will continue to support each of you any way I can! Keep those updates alive and flowing! If you want to change your address so you can receive Checkpoints magazine I can guide you, and if you want to confirm your life membership to the AOG, I can look you up Just ask.

–Shawn “The Schulz” Schulz, 617 E. Wesley Dr., O’Fallon, IL 62269; (915) 309-5612; USAFACAD@ hotmail.com; Facebook page: AFA Class of 2006 Hi Class of 2007.

Reunion Update: A number of people have emailed or messaged me so I wanted to give you the most recent update from Ty Rube. Our reunion will likely be on either Sept. 23, 2017, or Sept.

30, 2017. The exact date will be determined by the home football schedule that is set to be released sometime in March. As soon as it’s finalized, we will let you know.

On January 31, 2017, the Lt. Helton Memorial Foundation along with Joe Helton’s family unveiled a tribute to our fallen classmate at MacDill Air Force Base. A statue of Joe now greets anyone who enters Helton Hall, the 6th Security Forces Squadron headquarters building. Inscribed upon the base of the statue are the names of all the Security Forces airmen who have paid the ultimate sacrifice since 9/11. If you are visiting or stationed at MacDill AFB, stop by and see this wonderful memorial tor Joe.

2007

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Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS 2008 Life Update: Alison Wood wrote in to catch us up on everything that has happened since graduation. Alison was stationed in Kaiserslautern, Germany for all five years of her time on active duty.

She completed one deployment to Iraq then separated in August 2012 and moved back to Houston, TX. She is currently working for General Electric.

She was one of 35 people selected for the GE Oil & Gas XLP program, which is a leadership pipeline to develop executives in GE’s drilling business. She received her Master of Science from UT Austin in 2014 and her Master of Engineering in petroleum engineering from Texas A&M last month. She is married to Brent Johnson, West Point ’07. Brent is currently working for Amazon.

Alison Wood and Brent Johnson Other News: Mark Hancock wrote in with details on the Flat Joe 5K, “On behalf of our classmate Joe Helton’s family and friends, I would like to invite and encourage everyone in our class (and anyone reading this) to come to the 2017 Flat Joe 5K on Saturday, 20 May 2017, in Monroe, GA. This race honors all of our fallen heroes, but speMembers cifically Lieutenant Joe Helton, 78% Class of 2007. Please note, the race will start and end at the government building, (Walton County Building, 303 S Hammond Dr., Monroe, GA, 30655), instead of being held at the Sabre Society Monroe Area High School, like Donors in years past. It will be almost 3 10 years to the day since we graduated, and I cannot think of a better way to have a pseudo-reunion than to gather with Joe’s family and support this cause. To find more information about the race, please visit the signup page at https://runsignup.com/Race/ Events/GA/Monroe/FlatJoe5K1MileRun or the Lt Helton Memorial Foundation page at http://www. ltheltonfoundation.org. I hope to see you there!”

–Casey (Bayne) Whitson, (310) 343-5969; email@caseywhitson.com

148 · usafa.org

–Christin Brodie, (817) 223-9793; Christin.

Brodie@usafa.edu; cbrodie2@icloud.com

Members

2009

65%

Members

Hi Class of 2008!

Here’s a little update from a few of your classmates…

In case you have not already Sabre Society heard, Ryan Gustafson marDonors ried Dr. Jessica Hsieh. The 1 event was held at Ft. MacArthur AFB in Los Angeles, CA. Paul Day, Matt Onxley, Britt Caldwell and Richard Medina were all in attendance to help the couple celebrate in style as you can see in the photo. The couple then moved cross-country to Boston where Ryan is stationed at Hanscom AFB.

Ryan Gustafson’s beautiful outdoor wedding took place in sunny Los Angeles, California.

I also received a message from Daniel Hilligrass who some may have seen on the big screen at the 2016 AFC Championship game. As you may remember, Dan cross-commissioned into the Navy and is now flying VX-9 Vampires. Daniel and company did the flyover for the game then got the chance to go down on the field.

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Happy New Year! Let us know if you are going to SOS, PCSing, transitioning out of the Air Force, or anySabre Society thing else exciting you’ve Donors done! We want to know how 0 you’re doing and where you’re going! Like and post it to our Class of 2009, Air Force Academy Facebook page! Also, if you’re ever passing through Kadena AB, let’s go get sushi and sake!

Here’s the latest…

BABIES: Jared Marvin, Chuck Scholfield and Ben Nail are proud fathers while Ty Clark doubled down and had his second! Maverick Lewis and Aaron Green both have their first on the way now!

MARRIED: Kyle and Julie (Luce) Rainwaters tied the knot and are teaching T-38s at Vance! Believe it or not, Ryan Parrish and Mike Mayra both got engaged!

NEW JOBS: Jeff Rudolph (F-16) and James Hall (C-17) both earned their Weapons School patches!

Alessandra Horban and Josh Frider are both working for GE in their Junior Officer Leadership Program!

OTHER SPOOGE: Mike Knapp is working part time at The Pampered Chef.

SHAMELESS PLUGS: Check out www.crashpadsinaltus.com! Classmate owned! If you ever need a place to stay in Altus, OK, you need to look no further than the Bat Cave!

Yvonne “Evie” Johnston bought Julia Child’s house in Provence! Check out her new venture on Facebook and AirBnB: La Peetch: Center for Food, Culture, and Community – Forrest Underwood, PSC 80, Box 20284, APO AE 96367, forrestunderwood@gmail.com; Facebook: Forrest J. Underwood Greetings class! Bit of a shorter narrative this time around but sometimes brevity is a good thing.

Congratulations are in order this quarter to Austin Baker, who got engaged to his girlfriend Emma while in Switzerland. He proposed to her on the exact spot where they met. May you have many happy years together!

Most of our class knows that Tom Whitney has enjoyed quite a bit of success on the professional golf circuit, but Brandon Johnson has also demonstrated his prowess on the golf course recently and won a major Veterans Golfers Association tournament, taking top honors over more than 1,200

2010

Dan Hilligrass and other Navy pilots receiving recognition on the field at the 2016 AFC Championship game.

I know classmates are doing amazing things all over the world and I want to share your stories! The next time you hear about our classmates meeting up and changing the world, send me a message and help me share it here.

Until ourt paths cross again! Christin Brodie

players and 82 tournament qualifiers. A full writeup of Brandon’s accomplishments can be found at https://www.airforcetimes. com/articles/army-air-forcegolfers-show-their-swings-onmorning-drive.

Continuing in sports news, from Air Force Falcon to Members Atlanta Falcon, a big shout-out 41% goes to Ben Garland! Not only did he get a safety on Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, but also helped the team beat Green Bay to be crowned NFC Champions and earn a chance to beat the New England PatriSabre Society Donors ots and (as of the time of this writing) win a Super Bowl ring!

1 Brian O’Connor finished up a C-17 assignment at McChord AFB in November of 2015 and is now back at Laughlin AFB as a T-6 instructor. He also spent some time in Pucon, Chile with his girlfriend and visiting family. While in Chile, they climbed the Volcan Villarica volcano. During the ascent, he took some great shots from checkpoints along the way. Of course, a copy of Checkpoints went along for the trip!

Deanna Franzen finished law school in December, graduating from Texas A&M University School of Law and is sitting for the Texas Bar Exam in February. She plans to separate from the military in March to pursue a career as a civilian attorney.

Good luck on both the test and your practice! Kari Benson (Thomas) also finished up a degree with Embry-Riddle. Congratulations to both of you! ’Til next time, blue skies and tailwinds!

–Todd Gamiles, 2010checkpoints@gmail.com

2011 Members

31%

Greetings Class of 2011!

David Lam checking in here from sunny San Diego, CA! I’m excited to have this opportunity to carry on the class scribe torch from Elizabeth (Borroni) Gallagher. As we bring in the New Year, please give me a shout and

Sabre Society Donors

2

update me on your life’s journey whether you are still active or on the other side.

To start out, everyone take a minute to congratulate Mark Mosby on his acceptance to Columbia Business School!! It’s always awesome to see our classmates starting new adventures and representing us well. Best wishes to you, Mark!

Craig Porter is the first from the Class of Olds to graduate USAF Test Pilot School. It was a challenging year-long course with 25 different aircraft – 31 if you count sims. Craig is graciously offering advice and experiences to anyone interested in transitioning into the test world. Please reach out!

Capt. Craig Porter in an open canopy 1944 T-6SNJ. George Knudsen married Kelli Quenzer this past summer. Three classmates traveled to Moore, OK to be saber bearers: Travis Collier, Shayne McAfee and Mark Markling.

Landon and Olga Grover riding off into the sunset.

In other news, the date of initial separations (May 2017) is growing closer and rumbles of life-altering opportunities are growing louder. While many will be slipping the surly bonds of earth in USAF standard issue flight suits for a few more mandatory years, others will take Members their chances in the private job 26% market. Though a month late, James Beilby will be selflessly transitioning to the frigid San Francisco Bay Area to begin a monogamous relationship with Apple. If you or any other grads you know are in the tech Sabre Society Donors industry and are looking for a drinking partner, Beilby will 1 be waiting for you. In addition, his new move will also be the beginning of a new family. James and his fiancée Missy will be getting married next August, a couple months after settling into Cupertino.

The Knudsen wedding Finally, Peter Horban also tied the knot this past fall to Mary Adele and celebrated his wedding at the Cadet Chapel.

If you have any updates to keep everyone informed, please do not hesitate to get in touch!

– David Lam, 1281 9th Ave. Unit 2001, San Diego, CA 92101; (862) 222-6674; Dlam11usafa@gmail. com

2012

Class of Hap, it is with great pleasure that I am writing to you this day. As always there have been billions of lives affected by your daily acts of awesome and I am proud to highlight a few of those on a semi-regular basis. First up, a star-spangled power couple recently tied the knot back in August and have been basking in the Alaskan ripples of love. Congratulations!

James and his fiancée, Missy.

Finally, I wanted to congratulate Paul Ochs on his recent marriage to Vanessa. Paul is not a big spotlight kind of guy, but without him the world would not nearly be as awesome. Congrats on your big day! (See photo at the top of the next column.)

To all my comrades near, far, wherever you are… I believe that we are what we eat and that the “food poisoning” induced by years of hamsters, GRs, parades,

Checkpoints · March 2017

CLASS NEWS

Paul and Vanessa Ochs on their wedding day. and all-around uniquely good times make us a cut above. Thank you for all that you do, and if you can, pay it forward with giving back to the cadets that follow in our footsteps.

Air Power! Cheers, LeRoi.

The future Mr. and Mrs. Ference.

Introducing our newest fledgling, Levi Forbes Ferguson, born the 4th day of January, 2017, to Alec (’13) and Courtney Ferguson. Congratulations!

Levi is a blessed addition to their already beautiful family: Jake Allen (’12) and Sam Raine after competing in Arctic Man 2016.

Thanks for contributing! Keep in touch. Molly Travis – Molly (Bush) Travis, USAFA2013news@gmail. com

–LeRoi Edwards, leroi.edwards@gmail.com

2014

2013

Greetings classmates and alums.

Happy 2017 and Year of the Rooster! Our first quarter, we’d like to celebrate engagements, weddings, new arrivals and classmate updates. If you have anything to contribute, please email usafa2013news@gmail. com. We’d love to hear and share about your lives!

On August 8, our classmate Addie Riley married Stephen Caple (’12) in a ceremony in Addie’s hometown of Minerva, OH. The wedding party included classmates Holly Macpherson, Yasmine Sarmiento and Cela Leano as bridesmaids and groomsmen; Paul Weisgarber Members (’12), C1C Jake Riley and C3C 49% Josiah Riley—both Addie’s younger brothers! Addie and Stephen are currently stationed at Columbus AFB where Addie is a T-38 instructor pilot and Stephen serves as a civil Sabre Society engineer.

Donors Congratulations to our 1 classmates Connor Ference and Julianne Haun on their recent engagement! Connor is currently stationed at Tyndall AFB, where he flies the F-22, and Julianne is attending law school at Florida State.

Members

From left are Levi, Courtney, Avett, Alec and Nash Ferguson.

This quarter, we’d like to feature our classmate, Sam Raine. If you’re unfamiliar with the Raine Man, here’s a quick synopsis: Sam began his life in Dunsmuir, CA as an aspiring baby model and actor. When he beat out the Olsen twins for the role of Michelle Tanner, he was forced to re-evaluate his life priorities. Ultimately, he declined the role to hone his skills as a slalom snowboarder and future USAFA cadet. While classmates stressed over chem GRs, Sam travelled to Erzurum, Turkey, to compete in the World University Games and is an Olympic hopeful. In 2013, Sam attempted to revive his acting career with classmate Tim Smith when they were chosen for “The Amazing Race” final selections. However, the escape to Denver on a school night proved too ambitious for the SCA committee, so their request was denied, which killed their dreams of primetime TV. Nonetheless, Sam continues to beat the odds—besting us all in deployments with a 365 to Soto Cano, Honduras, where he serves as the chief of Engineering, responsible for planning, construction and demolitions of all Air Force projects on base. Cheers to you, Sam, and all your future endeavors!

60%

Editor’s note: We did not receive an input from Claire for this issue. She also said she was no longer the scribe for the Class of 2014.

Any volunteers for 2014 scribe should contact the Class News editor at Tom. Kroboth@aogusafa.org.

Sabre Society Donors

0

–Claire Palmer, usafa2014updates@gmail.com

2015 Members

60%

Editor’s note: We did not receive an input from Jonathan or Tim for this issue. Plese send them your information and photographs for the next issue.

Sabre Society Donors

0

–Jonathan Kay and Tim Thornburg, 2015classnews@gmail 150 · usafa.org

2016 Members

62%

Woah!

Have these past few months gone by fast or what? While time is flying by unnoticed, our classmates surely are not.

While some of our classmates are just starting training, others are completing their training and finding out their follow-on assignments!

Blake McCown, Will Maschmeyer and Elizabeth Ramsey are attending intelligence training and pending graduation will be heading to Mildenhall, Hurlburt Field, and Moody respectively! Great job y’all!!

Our 13Ns have also found out their follow-on assignments: some who will be heading to Malmstrom are Taylor Parker, Jasmine Kim, Derek Fitle, and Grant Simmons.

Not only was this holiday season filled with joy of base drops, but also from the excitement of engagements, weddings and news of little ones on the way!!

Riley Vann and Ben Persian, Mandy Fanning and Mitch Boh, and Mike Potts and Anna Britton and the many more, congratulations on your engagements!

Sabre Society Donors

0

Brooke Wheeler and Chris Cecil Congratulations to Brooke (Wheeler) and Chris Cecil on your beautiful wedding! And to save the best news for last... Brooke and Chris will be welcoming a beautiful baby girl in 2017! She is already loved by so many.

Thanks to those who provided updates. To help get more updates, I’m looking for some help to start up a 2016 Facebook page! If you are interested, please contact me. Keep working hard and best of luck y’all! -B Riley Vann and Ben

–Bianca Franz, (706) 825-6821; Bianca.franz@ icloud.com

Checkpoints · March 2017

Written By: Jeff Holmquist

FINAL APPROACH Ryan Hall

Frosty February

(Above) A United States Air Force Academy cadet walks along the frosty landscape of the Terrazzo during a particularly wintery day on campus. Frost coated everything from trees to statues to airplane displays in the Cadet Area that day. (Right) Even the wildlife at the Academy enjoyed the frosty scenery that day, posing for a picture near the roadway.

144 · usafa.org

A special look back at the 2016 season The 2016 season will be remembered as one of the most historic in school history. The Falcons set standards on and off the field which will established a course for the future of the program and department.

A

ir Force finished the season 10-3 overall, completing just the seventh 10-win season in school history. The Falcons closed the season with a six-game winning streak which tied as the fifth-longest in the nation. Air Force defeated South Alabama, 45-21, in the Nova Home Loans Arizona Bowl to post its second bowl win in three years.

Air Force also won the Commander-in-Chief ’s Trophy for a record 20th time overall and second time in three years with victories over Army and Navy. The team is preparing for a trip to the White House this spring for a ceremony with President Donald J. Trump.

Air Force had a .769 winning percentage which ranked 12th nationally and ended up one of just 25 teams in the nation with 10 or more wins. The Falcons finished the season ranked third nationally in rushing with a 317.4 per-game average. The team was fourth nationally in time of possession with a 34:03 mark and seventh in third-down offense at 50.5 percent. Air Force was also effective through Checkpoints Online

the air, leading the nation in yards per completion (25.8) and finishing eighth in passing efficiency (163.58).

Air Force had two record-setting performers that led the team. Weston Steelhammer completed one of the most decorated seasons for any player in school history. He was named the recipient of the East-West Shrine Game Pat Tillman Award winner which goes to the player who best exemplifies character, intelligence, sportsmanship and service. The award is about a student-athlete’s achievements and conduct, both on and off the field.

Pat Tillman was a professional football player who walked away from the game after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 to join the U.S. Army and fight for our country.

A stand-out at Arizona State University, Tillman was named Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year as a senior before being drafted by the Arizona Cardinals. After just three years in the NFL, Tillman turned down a multi-million dollar contract offer from the Cardinals to enlist in the U.S. Army.

Tillman served multiple tours of duty, including Operation Iraqi Freedom, before he was killed during a mission in Afghanistan in 2004.

The Falcons finished the season 10-3 overall, completed just the seventh 10-win season in school history. Air Force closed the season with a six-game winning streak which is the fifth-longest in the nation.

Steelhammer earned third-team All-American honors by the Associated Press and second-team honors by The Sporting News this season. He was also a finalist for the Lott IMPACT Trophy for community service, leadership and on-field performance. Steelhammer is the first Air Force player to earn first-team all-conference honors three straight years, earning the award from 2014-16. He led the team in tackles for the second straight season with 80.

Steelhammer also led the Mountain West and ranked third nationally in interceptions with seven. He is the Air Force record holder for career interceptions with 18 which ranks second in Mountain West history. He recorded the record-setting interception in Air Force’s 45-21 victory over South Alabama in the Arizona Bowl. Steelhammer was named the game’s outstanding defensive player, leading Air Force in tackles with five and also forcing a fumble.

Fellow senior Jalen Robinette concluded his record-breaking career with invitations to the East-West Shrine Game and Senior Bowl. He became the first Falcon in school history to earn a trip to the Senior Bowl. Robinette finished the season with 35 catches for 959 yards, the second-most in a season in school history. He led the nation in yards per catch with a 27.4 mark. Robinette became Air Force’s career leader in receiving yards with 2,697, breaking the record of 2,392 by All-American Ernie Jennings set from 1968-70.

Robinette closed his career with 120 catches and 18 touchdowns which are both the second-most in school history.

Air Force was just as successful off the field, bucking a six-year trend throughout college football in attendance declines. Air Force averaged 29,587 fans per game and was at 63 percent capacity in 2016 which bested the Mountain West’s average of 24,142. Air Force saw a 14 percent increase from last year which ranked third in the conference and 14th in the country.

Other significant improvements were easily recognizable within the program. Fans were treated to a pair of new video boards in Falcon Stadium. The two brand-new video boards, and a new state-of-the-art sound system, were installed for the season opener. The video board in the south end of the stadium is the largest among all of the Mountain West schools and the service academies. The board has 2,500 square feet of HD video display. A second HD video board has been installed in the north end of the stadium along with HD ribbon displays at field level in both the north and south end zones.

"This was a landmark season for our program and the Academy. The product on and off the field is as good as ever and we took some significant steps as an Academy to help secure the future of the program" The changes began with a newly-renovated Blue-Silver area in Falcon Stadium. The Blue-Silver area was completed with 100 percent donor funds and features new club seating, a remodeled dining and social areas.

These changes were just the start. Air Force athletics is aggressively fundraising for the next phases of the Falcon Stadium renovation. Phase 2 includes new locker rooms and the preliminary work for phase 4 which is scheduled to begin following the 2017 season.

Phase 3 includes a new facility on the east side of the stadium, replacing the aluminum bleachers and will include club suites, luxury boxes and a new ticket office. Phase 4 is club seating and recruiting spaces above the locker rooms on the north end of the stadium. Phase 5 will complete the project and bring the stadium to full Americans with Disabilities Act compliance, upgrade restrooms and concessions areas and various odds and ends throughout the stadium.

“This was a landmark season for our program and the Academy. The product on and off the field is as good as ever and we took some significant steps as an Academy to help secure the future of the program,” Air Force Director of Athletics Jim Knowlton said. “You must always be moving forward with facilities and other upgrades in college athletics and the steps we took this season at Falcon Stadium are keeping us on the move. The future of our program is very bright and we look forward to the continued support of our shareholders to facilitate exceptional in all we do!”

Checkpoints · March 2017

Celebrating service above self

Lt. Col. (Ret.) George “Spider” McKinney ‘65 and Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Mike Short ’65 are pictured in front of the Hurlburt Field building named for Lt. Gen. Short.

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he 505th Command and Control Wing recognized the career of Lt. Gen. Michael Short ’65 during a Dec. 16, 2016, ceremony by naming their Hurlburt Field, Florida, conference center after him.

Following his 35 years’ active-duty service, Lt. Gen. Short served 16 years as a highly qualified expert-senior mentor with the 505th CCW, preparing an entire generation of airmen for leadership at the operational level of war. In this capacity, he mentored students in 165 senior-level classes as part of the 505th CCW’s Air Force Senior Staff Courses, Joint Senior Staff Courses and Combined Joint Force Air Component Commander courses. His mentorship extended to more than 800 flag officers and many thousands of senior leaders from the U.S. and allied air forces.

This recognition is noteworthy. It required approval at the highest levels of the Air Force and the ceremony was

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attended by the vice commander of Air Combat Command, Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Harris.

“Lt. Gen. Short is undoubtedly a hero. When it comes to air power history and theory, [Mike] leads the way, and we will stand on his shoulders for decades to come,” Harris said.

Counting time at the Academy (for which he got to wear the ribbon), Lt. Gen. Short served our Air Force and nation for 55 years. This rivals the tenures of generals Eisenhower, MacArthur, George C. Marshall and Maxwell Taylor.

“Mike and I were among the few who walked in as 17-year old boys on 26 June 1961,” said classmate George “Spider” McKinney ’65, who attended the ceremony. “I am grateful to have witnessed acknowledgement of the man who went on to provide a shining, living example of the credo, ‘Service above self.’”

CADETS ASSIST WITH MILITARY BOWL EVENTS F

ive United States Air Force Academy cadets experienced close encounters with real-life heroes during the recent bowl season.

C1C Christopher Wilson, C3C Nicholas Jasper, C4C Gail Muggill, C4C Patrick Walker and C4C Victor Kyle traveled to the 2016 Military Bowl at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis on Dec. 27, 2016, to serve as volunteers at the event.

Cadets Wilson, Jasper and Muggill drove convertibles carrying seven Medal of Honor recipients who were part of the pre-game parade.

According to John Pomeroy ’70, USAFA cadets have been part of the Military Bowl festivities since 2011, when the Air Force Falcons played in the bowl game.

Pomeroy says he was friends with Steve Beck, president and executive director of the Military Bowl, and suggested that cadets from the Washington, D.C., area be recruited to host and escort the Medal of Honor recipients.

Cadets and Midshipmen from Annapolis have served as volunteers ever since.

Prior to the annual game, a parade through downtown Annapolis is conducted, with the Medal of Honor recipients as key dignitaries.

Apart from the parade and game, cadets also were invited to a special pre-game reception. They took part in a panel discussion put on by Congressional Medal of Honor Society with the Medal of Honor recipients. That was followed by an informal group discussion with cadets and midshipmen with medal winners Navy SEAL Senior Chief Special Warfare operator Ed Byers and Army Capt. Florent Groberg.

“It has provided the cadets and midshipmen with a great opportunity for one-on-one interaction with the recipients,” Pomeroy says. “Many Medal of Honor recipients have emphasized to me how much they enjoy interacting with the cadets and midshipmen during the Military Bowl festivities. With very few exceptions, the cadets and midshipmen have impressed me greatly with their maturity and their intellectual and emotional curiosity in getting to know the recipients.”

Top to bottom: C4C Gail Muggill awaits her turn in the parade lineup. She was able to drive a Medal of Honor recipient in the parade.

Cadets and midshipmen particiapte in an informal discussion with Medal of Honor winners Ed Byers (front left) and Florent Groberg.

C1C Christopher Wilson (center) and C3C Nicholas Jasper (right) pose for a picture at the 2016 Military Bowl game at Annapolis.

Checkpoints · March 2017

NCLS Nuggets Academy symposium focuses on aspects of the warrior ethos

By Jeff Holmquist

T

he 24th annual National Character & Leadership Symposium (NCLS) took place over two days — Feb. 23-24 — at the United States Air Force Academy, inspiring and educating the entire Cadet Wing.

However the reach of NCLS goes beyond the boundaries of campus, according to Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Michelle Johnson ’81. This year’s symposium attracted about 550 people from the community, 200 visiting college students, 50 visiting college faculty members, as well as a few high school students and others.

“This extraordinary gathering of people, from all facets of academia and all walks of life, makes for a rich and diverse experience for all,” Lt. Gen. Johnson said.

During the opening session of NCLS, Lt. Gen. Johnson said the year’s theme — “Warrior Ethos and the American Airman” — was carefully selected to highlight the change in the profession of arms in recent years.

She said the Academy has recently “institutionalized” the warrior ethos as a character trait that every graduate must attain before becoming an Air Force officer.

“Developing the warrior ethos permeates the entire cadet experience, from the classrooms to the airfield to the athletic fields,” she explained.

Lt. Gen. Johnson said new second lieutenants have to comfortably operate in a joint environment, and must understand the role that technology, cyber security and diversity of thought play in today’s military. The warrior ethos must be present to succeed in all new areas of engagement, she noted.

And yet, even with the shifting landscape of the profession of arms, Lt. Gen. Johnson said, the Academy’s and Air Force’s core values continue to lead the way.

“Although the profession of arms is changing,” she added, “the high level of integrity, dedication to service and excel-

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lence expected of our cadets, our faculty and our airmen has remained consistent.”

More than 30 speakers — from general officers to civilian business leaders to non-profit founders — imparted wisdom about the warrior ethos during this year’s NCLS. Some of the speakers were USAFA graduates, but others were not.

Following are a few “nuggets” of wisdom gleaned from the two-day event.

***

Army Col. (Ret.) Greg Gadson ’89, the honorary captain for the New York Giants professional football team, kicked off the NCLS’s first day with his own personal story of perseverance and courage.

A 1989 graduate of the United States Military Academy, Gadson was assigned as a platoon leader early in his career. But he found himself unprepared, and failed to fully prepare the troops beneath him, when pressed into combat a short time later.

In 1991, a sergeant in his platoon was seriously injured by a roadside bomb.

“My soldiers were no prepared to do what we needed them to do,” Gadson admitted to the crowd. “I made a promise to myself that I would never, ever be unprepared again.”

To better prepare himself and his troops, Gadson leaned on lessons he’d learned as a football player at West Point, focusing on his former coach’s three keys to being a successful warrior — pride, poise and teamwork.

Some 14 years later, in 2007, Gadson and his fellow troops found themselves on the frontlines again. This time, Gadson’s vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb. Because his soldiers were fully trained and ready to act, Gadson’s life was saved.

“I didn’t know what was wrong with me, but I knew it

Gen. Paul Selva ‘80, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, talked at length about the military challenges facing the nation’s armed forces today.

***

Col. (Ret.) Greg Gadson encouraged cadets to be prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead. wasn’t good,” he recalled. “I remember asking God not to let me die here.”

A recently trained medic sprung to action, applying tourniquets to Gadson’s leg wounds. Even though Gadson would eventually lose both of his legs, the quick thinking saved the colonel’s life.

Gadson urged cadets to commit to being prepared at every turn, because you never know what challenge you will face and “many of us don’t get second chances.”

“What I want to tell you is that you never want to look back and say ‘I wish I had done better,’” he said. “You’re not going to be perfect, but every day you have an opportunity to be the best you can be and live up to your potential. Do you take that opportunity, or do you take the easy road? You’re going to have opportunities every day to take the easy road. I just want you to remember that taking the easy road has consequences. That’s why our profession demands the highest character, because the consequences are huge.”

Gen. Paul Selva ’80, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was among the high-powered speakers at the 2017 NCLS. In his current role, Selva is the second-highest ranking military officer in the U.S. “As the vice chairman, my job is to make the chairman, the secretary of defense and the president successful. And give them the best advice I know how,” Selva explained. “When my best advice is not good enough, then it’s time to find a different solution.”

When it comes to national and global security, the Joint Chiefs of Staff operate under the assumption that there are five current threats that must be addressed: a resurgent Russia that is very unpredictable; an emerging China; Iran; North Korea; and violent extremism (ISIS, Al Qaeda, etc.).

The present challenges are complicated by the fact that those countries and organizations wield influence throughout the world, not just within their borders, Selva said.

Selva told the crowd that the U.S. must engage those threats with resolve and strength in order to deter future aggression.

In addition, to be successful in today’s contested global environment, force innovation and challenging the status quo will be important in the days ahead, Selva told the crowd.

“We want people to think a little bit outside their cubicle, and find out if there is a better way,” he said. “And 90 percent of the time, there is a better way … and we have to find it.”

Through experimentation, and a willingness to fail while pursuing more effective solutions, our military and our nation will benefit in the long run, he suggested.

Checkpoints · March 2017

“You’re not going to win every battle, but what you want to do is win the war.

What that experimentation means is that we will save the lives of countless soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines when we have to put them in harm’s way.” — Gen. Paul Selva ’80 “You’re not going to win every battle, but what you want to do is win the war,” Selva said. “What that experimentation means is that we will save the lives of countless soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines when we have to put them in harm’s way.”

And, Selva said, every airman has a part to play in the transformation that’s to come.

“All of you have a set of skills and talents that make you unique,” he said. “There will be a day — but I can’t tell you when it will come — when we’re going to need that talent and you’re going to have to be ready.”

***

Maj. Gen. Albert “Buck” Elton II ’89, deputy director for Special Operations and Counterterrorism on the Joint Staff, offered an overview about understanding the enemy during several NCLS presentations.

Elton spent much of his time explaining the history behind the rise of Al Qaeda and ISIS. He noted that ISIS has a 20-year plan for victory over the West and “they are remarkably on path” to accomplish the goal.

“They govern, they control populations. … They use very violent means to be able to control anybody who didn’t agree with them,” he explained. “They took large areas of land that had oil, that had money and they taxed the population so they became very well funded.”

Elton said the Islamic State hate secular, liberal societies like the U.S. They want to stop the spread of “debauchery” that is prevalent in many modern societies — drug abuse, alcohol use, gambling, fornication, he explained.

“They hate us because we’re non-believers. We don’t believe in Islam and what the Koran teaches and what Mohammed said,” Elton continued. “They hate us because we have atheists and we don’t believe in the Lord creator. They say they hate us because of our crimes against Islam. They say they will retaliate and fight us with bullets and knives. They hate us for the crimes we commit in their lands.”

Elton said the Islamic State continues to use child soldiers, is Checkpoints Online

involved in slave trade, stones offenders, punishes and kills gay people and uses violence to intimidate and control people.

“We know that they were working on developing chemical and biological weapons. We know that they’re interested in nuclear weapons,” he said. “We know that they are interested in pursuing creative and devastating ways to attack the West and they are working on commercially available technology that is affordable…”

To counteract the rise of the Islamic State, Elton said that remotely piloted aircraft and cyber operations will play an important role in the fight. He said the military also needs to find more precise and more affordable weapons platforms for the continuing battle.

In addition, Elton said, the U.S. and it’s partner nations need to commit more resources to the fight in order to be successful.

“We’ve spent about $10 billion in fighting the Islamic State in total,” he said. “That’s less than what we spend on dry cleaning as a nation. And we spend about $88 billion on casino gambling. We need to invest more.”

***

Brig. Gen. Mark Weatherington, Class of 1990, director of Cyberspace Operations at NORAD and USNORTHCOM, urged cadets and others in attendance to embrace the unexpected detours that can happen during one’s life or career.

When he graduated from pilot training, Weatherington said there weren’t enough cockpits available for everyone who wanted to fly. As a consequence, he was assigned to security.

“At the time … that was a big blow,” he remembered.

“You’re half way through pilot training, and you’re not going to fly airplanes? That’s what I wanted to do my entire life.”

But leading a team of 60 airmen at that stage of his career helped Weatherington learn lessons about leadership and carrying out a mission that proved invaluable.

“I look back now, and I can’t think of a better experience that I could have had,” he admitted.

Weatherington eventually was assigned to fly the B-1 and

also remotely piloted aircraft. Now he finds himself in a completely different role — cyber security.

The focus of Weatherington’s presentation was the warrior ethos in the digital age. He told the crowd that both drones and cyber will play increasingly important roles in military conflicts of the future. He said the United States has enjoyed the competitive advantage of air superiority over many decades, and the military is looking to harness that same advantage when it comes to drones and cyber.

“Over the last 100 years, the impact of airpower on outcomes has steadily grown. Part of the reason for this change was how airmen embraced the warrior ethos, how they integrated on a team, how they honed their skills, how they focused on a mission and on making a difference,” he said. “I would argue that, in the next 100 years, others will make a striking similar argument about remotely piloted aircraft and cyberspace operations. These two disciplines, very much in their infancy, will come to exert an increasing degree of influence on outcomes and engagements.”

It’s important for the Air Force to recognize the importance of these emerging war fighting domains and to show respect for airmen who operate in those realms.

“This isn’t your son or daughter, or brother or sister, or granddaughter playing X-box on the couch,” Weatherington said. “They are professional, disciplined, selfless airmen with technical skills and the wherewithal to integrate them effectively in a bigger fight. These airmen are changing how we fight today.

“The good news is the warrior ethos is alive and well in this digital age. It’s advanced by young airmen at a keyboard or a joystick thousands of miles from the target.”

What hasn’t changed, Weatherington added, are the core values that are instilled in all airmen who serve this nation. He said the factors that remain unchanged include: 1) an unwavering focus on the mission; 2) An appreciation of the profession of arms and a drive to hone one’s skills and judgments as a warrior; 3) The recognition that each airman is an integral part of a team; and 4) The moral and physical courage to carry out responsibilities despite the hardships faced.

***

Speaking about the warrior ethos in everyday life, Lt. Col. Kevin Basik ’93 used an effective illustration of three ropes to drive home his point.

With the help of three volunteers from the audience, Basik illustrated how forces that are often beyond our control can influence our career and other life choices.

He said the “voice in our head” can be a negative or positive influence, and the people who we surround ourselves with also can pull us away from our goals or cause us to stray from the character that we have tried to build.

“This is us trying to be better person, a better parents, a

Lt. Col. Kevin Basik ‘93 inspired the audience to be leaders who encourage and support rather than tear down others.

better warrior, a better airman,” he explained. “This is tough.”

As two volunteers pulled on ropes, constraining Basik from moving forward, a third volunteer was stationed in front of the presenter pulling him ahead.

Basik said when individuals surround themselves with friends and colleagues who are supportive and encouraging, the battle to be better becomes easier.

“You show me your friends, I will show you your future,” he suggested. “The question I ask all of us … are you a better version of yourself because they are in your life?”

Basik said as future leaders in the Air Force, current cadets will have many opportunities to have a positive influence on fellow airmen. He urged all to become leaders who help others become better.

Basik, however, admitted that no one will ever be perfect. True character and effective leadership require that you rebound quickly.

“Sometimes you’re going to get it right, and sometimes you’re going to get it wrong,” he explained. “The beauty of this journey is in those moments when you get it wrong … how you recover from that stumble? That counts too.”

***

Former Vietnam prisoner of war Col. (Ret.) Leon “Lee” Ellis, president of Leadership Freedom LLC, spoke about the leadership lessons he learned while held at the Hanoi Hilton.

During his time as a POW, Ellis said staying optimistic was one key to success. A positive outlook pays dividends all throughout life, he added.

“You’ve got to believe,” he said. “If you don’t believe you can, you probably won’t. We had faith in ourselves and in each other, faith in our families, faith in our country, faith in God, faith that we would return with honor.”

In addition, Ellis said maintaining one’s character is important if you want to effectively lead others.

“We have to fight for it everyday,” he suggested. “If you’re not battling for your character, you’re probably sliding back.”

Other leadership lessons Ellis learned as a POW were the need for courage, the importance of over communicating, Checkpoints · March 2017

the power of fighting to win, and the significance of finding creative solutions.

And finally, he added, a mission’s success is always dependent upon being part of a team working together.

“Never fight alone,” he told the crowd. “If you don’t have people around you, you’re in deep trouble.”

***

Heather “Lucky” Penney found herself at the intersection of history and opportunity on the morning of Sept. 11, 2001.

A fighter pilot with the District of Columbia Air National Guard, Penney was scrambled shortly after two passenger aircraft slammed into the World Trade Center in New York City. Her mission was to stop any aircraft that might be headed to the nation’s capitol.

Because she had no weapons onboard, Penney was prepared to ram her F-16 into any threatening airplane that approached D.C. airspace.

“It was clear that our nation was under attack,” she said. “We live in the capitol of the free world. We had to assume that we were next…”

Penney deflected any praise she received from that 9-11 mission, noting that any dedicated airman would have done the same if place in a similar situation.

“There are things in this world that are more important than my soft, pink body,” Penney explained. “Freedom, the Constitution of the United States of America, our way of life … those things that make us uniquely American. We all belong to something that is greater than ourselves.”

During one NCLS presentation, Penney told audiences that everyone from air traffic controllers to ground support personnel to pilots were part of the team that secured our nation’s skies in the hours following the attack. Like all Air Force missions, Penney said it takes a coordinated effort to be successful.

“We were the tip of the spear that day, and we were the one’s who faced the very real possibility of sacrificing our lives,” she said. “But we could not have done any of what we did were it not for everyone else working together. So what you do may be unsung … but never doubt the essential nature of your duties and how important you are to the overall mission.”

Penney urged cadets to realize that their future roles in the Air Force — from piloting aircraft to cyber operations to nuclear deterrence to remotely piloted aircraft — will have a great impact on the security of our nation and the overall stability of the world.

“You have the capacity to make a difference, to make the world a better place,” she assured the crowd. “That’s why you are here. You have chosen that life of service. You’re here because you felt the calling, to be part of something larger and more purposeful than yourself. To apply your talents and your potential for the betterment of our great nation.”

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Heather Penney recounted the moments following the 9-11 terrorist attacks when she was scrambled to protect the nation’s capitol region.

***

Brian Williams ’91, a trauma surgeon who treated numerous police officers who were shot in Dallas last summer, spoke about race relations and leadership in times of crisis.

He recounted numerous personal experiences of racism and micro-agressions throughout his life, noting that as an AfricanAmerican he often felt like he was viewed as “inferior, suspicious, guilty or a threat.”

Even as an adult and a successful professional, Williams said he’s been unable to shake the feeling that society and law enforcement views him differently because of the color of his skin.

“I had done everything this society has asked me to do,” he told the crowd. “I didn’t just go to college, I busted my butt to get to the Air Force Academy. I served my country, and then I go on to medical school. But none of that matters.”

Since the Dallas shootings, Williams told the audience that he is on a mission to advance the conversation revolving around racism in this country.

“I know it makes people uncomfortable,” he said. “But the warrior ethos asks you all to reflect and act so that your core beliefs and values determine how you live your life.”

***

Kari Granger ’02, an executive coach, reported that everyone has a reason to develop the warrior ethos in his or her life.

Whether someone is serving in the military, working in a civilian job or promoting a cause in society, developing a life goal of making a difference is important.

Chris Gizzi ’97 drew parallels between being part of a football team and being a part of the Air Force during his NCLS presentation.

She learned that lesson while leading maintenance personnel while deployed in the Middle East.

In her initial weeks on the job, Granger admitted that her goal was to accomplish the minimum required and get home safely.

“My entire commitment was keep the airmen happy and out of trouble,” she recalled.

Granger’s unit attained a 58 percent mission capable rate and she had acceptable explanations for the relatively poor performance — mediocre aircraft, mediocre tools, the constant heat, etc.

It wasn’t until she left the confines of her maintenance base that Granger found the motivation she needed to strive for something more.

“I started to meet the face of the people we were supporting,” Granger said. The fellow military personnel told her than when the aircraft they were maintaining break down, the frontline units suffer more casualties.

“When we don’t fly, people die,” Granger said, “and I’d been treating my assignment like … we can tolerate this?”

When she returned to her base, Granger said she found renew motivation to do her job with excellence, and she encouraged those around her to step up their game.

“I was focused. I was responsible. I demanded accountability,” she said. “In that moment I became a warrior, leading warriors, for our warriors. None of the circumstances had been altered. The only thing that altered was that I had a cause greater than myself.”

A short time later, Granger’s airman had attained a 100-percent mission capable rate.

She emphasized that many people depend on others to do their job in order to accomplish a mission. Granger urged cadets to be

“No one comes here so that they can shine shoes. No one comes here to make hospital corners on their bed.But it’s part of the process. It’s a necessary part.”

— Chris Gizzi excellent, because you never know if your actions will save the life of another human being.

***

Chris Gizzi ’97, strength and conditioning coach for the Green Bay Packers, drew parallels between playing sports and accomplishing any type of job.

The former Denver Bronco and Green Bay Packer player said the warrior ethos — battling through the daily grind found in any profession — is vital for those who want to be great at what they do.

Even as a cadet, Gizzi said, the routine can be taxing but it’s part of the proven strategy for developing leaders of character for the Air Force and nation.

“No one comes here so that they can shine shoes. No one comes here to make hospital corners on their bed,” he said.

“But it’s part of the process. It’s a necessary part.”

Gizzi talked about the opportunity he had to lead the Green Bay Packers onto the field prior to the team’s first game back in action following the 9-11 attacks in 2001. He carried an American flag to the cheers of the crowd.

Gizzi said he felt privileged to represent his brothers and sisters in arms that day, and he felt proud to be part of something bigger than himself that day and ever since.

As he closed his presentation, Gizzi encouraged the future leaders of the Air Force to “recognize greatness” in the people around them. By singling out top performances, he said, others will be inspired to excel as well.

Checkpoints · March 2017

USAFA grads (from 1985-2014) performing the mission, at the Combined Air Operations Center, Southwest Asia. (Front, left to right) Left-to-right, Lt. Gen. Harrigian (85) and Maj. Gen. Silveria (85) holding USAFA flag, Brig. Gen. Williams (85). Second row: Rollins (95), Sawyer (99), Silverbush (14), Flick (09), Guillebeau (08), Pal (13), Lammert (08), Goulter (90), Brownheim (05). Third row: Cilla (12), Culhane (02), Hundt (07), Gonyea (98), Krause (09), Puffenbarger (11), Bradley (02), King (13), Winterbottom (98), Hainsfurther (07), Bennett (93), Brower (04). Fourth row: Fountain (12), Spindler (04), Ramirez (06), Carmichael (92), Inscoe (01), Smith (12), Lydiard (12), Williams (12), Hoehn (91), McPeak (14), Wallace (04), McCoy (05). Fifth row: Hendrickson (90), Collett (13), Burch (98), Allen (99), Welch (97), Chan (11), VanDootingh (85), Lohr (07). Sixth row: Tison (09), Burtz (97), Ahmann (93).

(Photo by Capt. Trisha Guillebeau ’08)

Grads play integral role at USAFCENT

By Major Jason Spindler ’04

I

t’s a great time to be in United States Air Forces Central Command (USAFCENT).

USAFCENT has supported near-continuous wartime and contingency operations since 2002, and have lineage dating back to the original 9th Air Force around the outset of World War II, in 1941.

Recently, Lt Gen Jeff “Cobra” Harrigian ’85, USAFCENT/ CC and CFACC, refreshed the Command’s priorities: First and foremost are our people, who are the engines of innovation and determination that enable us to: • Deliver airpower so that enemies know no refuge • Develop relationships across Joint forces and Coalition partner nations • Defend the region through shared, mutual support and cooperation USAFA graduates, who have been engaged in continuous warfare since at least 2001, play an integral role in fulfilling these priorities.

USAFCENT is working to build an enduring posture in the region, support CENTCOM objectives, and respond to dynamic changes in the environment. USAFCENT is a

Checkpoints Online

key player in bringing the fight to destroy Da’esh through Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) and to support our Afghan partners in defeating the Taliban through Operation Resolute Support (ORS).

Since August 2014, the 20-nation OIR coalition has flown more than 132,000 sorties, executing 18,000 strikes which destroyed almost 32,000 enemy targets. In ORS, the U.S. is part of a 13,000-strong NATO force whose mission since January 2015 is to advise-and-assist the Government of Afghanistan to support and defend their nation, with key functions that include planning and budgeting, strategy, governance and recruitment and training of military personnel.

Armed with skills from the Academy’s leadership laboratory experience, our grads are persistent and professional in fighting our nation’s conflicts and contingency operations. It’s also important to recognize that none of this would be possible without the incredible contributions and talents of our fellow Air Force colleagues, our Joint forces and our many coalition partners.

USAFCENT’s people, now and always, remain the standard-bearers for modern airpower and air superiority.

Checkpoints Online

AWARD

CATEGORY

PRODUCT

GRAND GOLD

Alumni Relations Programs: Marketing and Branding

Marketing and Branding: Checkpoints rebranding

GRAND GOLD

External Audience Tabloids and Newsletters: Digital

7258’

GOLD

General Information Videos: Long Video

GOLD

General News Writing

March 2016 Checkpoints Magazine

GOLD

Photography: Individual Photograph

Individual Photography: Inprocessing 2016

GOLD

PSAs and Commercial Spots

SILVER

Special Events: Single-Day

SILVER

Websites: Individual Sub-Websites

SILVER

Magazines: Special Issues

SILVER

Digital Communications: Mobile Applications

BRONZE

College and University General Interest Magazines

Checkpoints magazine

BRONZE

Periodical Staff Writing

Checkpoints magazine

BRONZE

Magazine Publishing Improvement

Checkpoints magazine

BRONZE

Design: Covers

Checkpoints magazine March 2016 Cover

BRONZE

Design: Editorial Design

Editorial Design: “Road to Rio”

BRONZE

Best Articles of the Year

“Walking for the Wounded”

BRONZE

External Audience Tabloids and Newsletters: Digital

Founders Day 2016 – “The Academy Way”

“Find the Falcon” Founders Day 2016 WebGuy “40 Years: Women at the Academy” AOG USAFA App

ZoomiEnews

AOG COMMUNICATIONS TEAM GRABS GOLD CASE ORGANIZATION GATHERS IN CHICAGO TO RECOGNIZE BEST PRACTICES

T

he Communications Department for the USAFA Association of Graduates was recognized as one of the region’s best after winning 17 awards from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) organization at its December convention in Chicago.

The number of awards the AOG received was tied for the most it has ever garnered in a single year, and the six grand gold and gold awards were its most ever for top prizes.

In all, the Communications Department has received 61 awards for quality over the past five years.

“We continue to fare well with our communications efforts when compared with some of the finest universities in the country,” notes AOG President and CEO William “T” Thompson ’73. “It’s always our goal to effectively communicate with our graduates and friends, and our success at the CASE convention indicates that we are always striving to do our best.”

CASE has nearly 200 member organizations in District VI, which encompasses institutions in Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Wyoming, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Among the top honors that the Communications Department received were grand gold awards for the marketing and rebranding of Checkpoints magazine and for its 7258’ digital newsletter.

Several AOG videos also brought home significant honors, including a gold for the 2016 Founders Day video that is posted on the AOG website.

“We continue to be proud of the quality of work produced by our staff,” says Bob McAllister, AOG senior vice president of communications. “Whether it’s through web communications, our award-winning alumni magazine, our expanded video production efforts or our printed marketing pieces, AOG staff members continue to impress with their commitment to and passion for their work.”

Left to Right: Eric Costello (Graphic Designer) Ryan Hall (Photo/Video Specialist) Troy Surrat (Director of Web Communications) Sarah Larrabee (Creative Director) Jeff Holmquist (Senior Editor)

Checkpoints · March 2017

A GUARANTEED RETIREMENT SOLUTION. NOW WITH A GUARANTEED

3%

BONUS.

1

Give your portfolio a lift with our Flexible Retirement Annuity.

For a limited time, earn an extra 3% bonus match on money you contribute for the first year. That’s on top of the guaranteed growth,2 tax-deferred earnings and minimal economic risk that come standard.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR GUARANTEED FIXED SAVINGS ANNUITIES. USAA.COM/AOG OR CALL US AT 888-957-4232 Investments/Insurance: Not FDIC Insured • Not Bank Issued, Guaranteed or Underwritten • May Lose Value 1 Not available in New York. Premium bonus (boost) offer is limited to the purchase of a new USAA Flexible Retirement Annuity only. The advertised rate shown is the rate currently in effect and is subject to change without notice. Premium bonus amount will never be less than 1% of your first-year premiums. Rate/bonus lock time periods and premium bonus are subject to change. Bonus match percentage is fixed and will not change after the contract is issued. 2 Guarantees apply to certain insurance and annuity products and are subject to product terms, exclusions and limitations and the insurer’s claims-paying ability and financial strength.

An annuity is a long-term insurance contract sold by an insurance company and designed to provide an income, usually after retirement, that cannot be outlived. There are fees, expenses and surrender charges that may apply. Money not previously taxed is taxed as income when withdrawn. Withdrawals before age 59½ may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty. Annuities are suitable for long-term investing, particularly retirement savings. You may wish to seek independent legal or financial advice before selling or liquidating any assets and prior to the purchase of any life or annuity products.

Flexible Retirement Annuity: ARA33846ST 03-99 (varies by state); in NY, NRA36171NY 05-00. Call for details on specific costs, benefits, limitations and availability in your state.

Annuities provided by USAA Life Insurance Company, San Antonio, TX. All insurance products are subject to state availability, issue limitations, and contractual terms and conditions. Each company has sole financial responsibility for its own products.

AOG receives financial support from USAA for this sponsorship. © 2017 USAA. 237310-0117

POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Checkpoints, Association of Graduates, Doolittle Hall, 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475.

Vince Rusinak, ’68 vince@rusinak.com

Nancy Rusinak Brother, R. Berthiaume, ’73

nancy@rusinak.com

www.RusinakRealEstate.com Rusinak Real Estate, Inc. 6455 N. Union Boulevard, Suite 202 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 719.590.6110