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Thule AB receives COVID test capability
(courtesy photo)
Thule Air Base, Greenland received COVID tests from Denmark on April 22. Thule’s medical clinic will have the ability to test up to 60 personnel with the samples being sent to Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, for lab analysis. The Danish Medical Director at Thule has offered to test 100 percent of the base population with a COVID-19 antibody test to determine if any personnel have possibility had the virus and/or immunity.
By SSgt Alexandra Longfellow | 21ST SPACE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — Thule Air Base, Greenland received COVID testing capabilities from Denmark on April 22. Thule’s medical clinic will then have the ability to test up to 60 personnel with the samples being sent to Denmark’s capitol, Copenhagen, for lab analysis and the results to come back within two days. Swab refills will be available. “Up to this point during the COVID-19 pandemic, our
small medical staff at Thule AB has only been able to monitor for the coronavirus symptoms in our personnel due to a lack of official testing capability,” said Col. Timothy Bos, 821st Air Base Group commander. Priority testing will be made for personnel showing COVID symptoms and new arrivals. With any luck, this may ultimately reduce the duration of the mandatory quarantine time. “After lots of hard work and coordinating with Greenlandic,
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Danish and U.S medical officials and our base maintenance contract supply chain, and having a lot of patience due to the global demand, we are very excited to finally have a COVID-19 test capability at Thule,” Bos said. The Danish Medical Director at Thule has offered to test up to 100 percent of the base population with a COVID-19 antibody test to determine if any personnel have possibly had the virus and/or a possible immunity.
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GPS celebrates 25th year of operation
By 1st Lt Tyler Whiting
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — The Global Positioning System, better known as GPS, marks its 25th year of operation Apr. 27, 2020. On this date in 1995, the system reached full operational capability, meaning the system met all performance requirements. U.S. Air Force Space Command formally announced the milestone three months later. “This is a major milestone,” Gen. Thomas S. Moorman Jr., former Air Force Vice Chief of Staff, said in 1995. “GPS has become integral to our warfighters and is rapidly becoming a true utility in the civilian community.” Initially developed for the military to meet a critical need for determining precise location on the battlefield, GPS has also become an integral part of technology affecting the lives of billions of people worldwide. “The United States Space Force’s continuing objective for the constellation is to ensure GPS remains the Gold Standard for global space-based positioning, navigation and timing,” said Gen. Jay Raymond, USSF Chief of Space Operations, and U.S. Space Command Commander. Today, the U.S. Space Force operates the GPS satellite constellation as a global utility – always available to everyone, everywhere on Earth. “GPS is a free for use service provided by the Space Force that enhances everyday lives around the world,” said Brig. Gen. DeAnna Burt, USSF Director of Operations and Communications. “GPS provides the highest accuracy positioning and timing data. In addition to the essential capabilities it provides for the military, GPS underpins critical financial, transportation and agricultural infrastructure. It’s always available, whether for an ATM transaction or securing a rideshare.” Its military capabilities first enhanced combat operations in 1990 and 1991 during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Allied troops relied heavily on the new GPS signal to navigate the featureless deserts in Kuwait and Iraq. In the early 2000’s, during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, GPS contribution to warfighting increased significantly. For example, the GPS constellation enabled accurate munitions, allowing the delivery of GPS-
Lockheed Martin GPS III (SV 01-10) Satellite aided Joint Direct Attack Munitions with pinpoint precision and minimal collateral damage. Today, in addition to these and other GPS-enabled warfighting capabilities, Airmen conduct resupply missions with battlefield precision airdrops to combat forces with GPS-guided, parachute-delivered equipment pallets known as “Smart Pallets.” The GPS operational constellation currently has 31 satellites, and the system is continually updated and modernized, making it a resilient system to maintain the signals required for accurate positioning, navigation and timing around the world. The first satellite of the new GPS III version, called Vespucci, was launched into space Dec. 23, 2018. The 2nd Space Operations Squadron at Schriever Air Force Base, Colo., operates GPS. The squadron recently
accepted control of the second GPS III satellite, called Magellan, on March 27. GPS III is meeting users’ emerging needs and responding to tomorrow’s threats with improved safety, signal integrity and accuracy. GPS III satellites are more accurate, have improved anti-jamming capabilities, and have doubled the design life; when compared to previous iterations of GPS. They are also designed to incorporate new technology and changing mission needs, “The 25th Anniversary is a huge, momentous occasion for us. We take great pride in providing this global utility to the approximately six billion users worldwide,” said Lt. Col. Stephen Toth, 2nd SOPS commander. “Celebrating this anniversary gives us a moment to recognize how far we’ve come, but also to get pumped about what lies ahead for our program and our role in executing that.”
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Want to transfer into the Space Force? Application period opens May 1
By Capt. Christopher Merian | U.S. SPACE FORCE PUBLIC AFFAIRS ARLINGTON, Va. — U.S. Space Force announced today the opportunity for U.S. Air Force active duty members to volunteer to officially transfer into the new service begins May 1. “This is an historic time to be in the space business and I could not be more excited to extend the opportunity to our active duty Air Force members to officially transfer into the Space Force,” said Gen. Jay Raymond, U.S. Space Force Chief of Space Operations and U.S. Space Command Commander. “We have the unique opportunity to create a new service; your energy, passion and expertise will be critical to our success.” The newest branch of the United States military, the Space Force, organizes, trains and equips forces to execute a variety of space missions, and to deter aggression in, from, and to space. Active duty Air Force officers and enlisted personnel in existing space career fields and select other career fields are eligible to apply for transfer. While approximately 16,000 military and civilians from the former U.S. Air Force Space Command are now assigned to the new service, this transfer process will officially commission or enlist military members into the service. “The choice to transfer into the Space Force will be a personal decision for each individual, just as it was for me,” said Chief Master Sgt. Roger A. Towberman, U.S. Space Force Senior Enlisted Advisor. “Each of us volunteered to serve, now we ask for volunteers to help build a new force that is tailor-made and laser-focused on joint warfighting and the space domain.” Those eligible to apply to transfer into the Space Force include officers and enlisted mem-
bers in the organic space career fields of space operations (13S) and space systems operations (1C6). Also eligible are officers and enlisted members in several career fields common to both the Air Force and Space Force, including intelligence (14N), cyberspace operations (17X), developmental engineer (62E), acquisition manager (63A), operations intelligence (1N0), geospatial intelligence (1N1), signals intelligence (1N2), fusion analyst (1N4), targeting analyst (1N8), cyberspace support (3D0), and client systems (3D1). For those in the organic space career fields (13S and 1C6), transfers to the USSF will begin Sept. 1t. Because active-duty space operations missions and functions will completely transfer to the Space Force, Airmen in organic space career fields who decline transfer into the Space Force will receive assistance in examining other options to include applying for retraining into another Air Force specialty, applying to crossflow into the Guard or Reserve, or applying for separation or retirement, if eligible. In the meantime, those service members will remain in the Air Force and may be assigned duties in the Space Force. At the end of the transition period, expected to be sometime in 2022, organic space AFSCs will be removed from Air Force inventory, and assignments in those mission areas will no longer be an option for Air Force members. For the common AFSCs only a limited number of billets will be available, so Air Force and the Space Force leaders are developing a board process to select volunteers for transfer based on mission needs and career sustainment. Since the boarding and selection process will take additional time, transfers for personnel with common
(Courtesy photo)
U.S. Air Force Airmen who transfer into the U.S. Space Force will continue to wear the Operational Camouflage Pattern utility uniform currently worn by USAF and U.S. Army personnel, but with distinct blue thread and a colored U.S. flag on the left arm. The USSF is the sixth branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and is part of the Department of the Air Force. AFSCs are expected to begin Feb. 1, 2021. All eligible personnel in organic and common career fields will receive a direct email from the Air Force Personnel Center on May 1 announcing the opening of the application window and providing directions to submit their applications on line. Individuals who believe they are eligible but do not receive this notification should contact the Total Force Service Center or assignment teams at AFPC. The application period will end May 31. Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard personnel remain critical to space mission execution. Air Guard and Air Force Reserve units executing space missions are currently aligned to the Space Force, and will continue supporting Space Force missions in this status while the future of the Reserve
Component for the Space Force is determined. The status of Department of the Air Force civilians, whether assigned to Air Force or Space Force organizations, is unchanged. For members of the other military services, the time frame for Army and Navy space requirements to move to the Space Force is in fiscal years 2022-23. Although legal provisions exist for members of other services to transfer to the Space Force, the current focus is on Air Force members. The Space Force will release further details for a limited inter-service transfer program for other sister services for fiscal year 2021. To learn more about the United States Space Force or the transfer process, visit: https:// www.spaceforce.mil/ or https://mypers.af.mil/ app/answers/detail/a_id/47018 (CAC enabled).
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Remotely piloted aircraft crews maintain mission readiness during COVID-19
By Laraine Thompson | AIR FORCE SURGEON GENERAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS FALLS CHURCH, Va. — COVID-19 cannot stop the dedicated Airmen who f ly remotely piloted aircraft in support of global operations. RPA crews at the 22nd Attack Squadron, part of the 432nd Wing/432nd Air Expeditionary Wing, Creech Air Force Base, have devised alternative procedures to keep flying MQ-9 Reaper global missions while following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines. “We know we have an important job,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Auger, Commander, 22nd Attack Squadron. “Our mission to support our forces downrange with intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and precision strike cannot slow down during the pandemic. We take our mission seriously, and we are very proud to be here.” COVID-19 has now increased health awareness for everyone, and RPA pilots are no exception. The MQ-9’s two-person crew, consisting of a pilot and sensor operator, sits inside the Ground Control Station, or cockpit, where it is difficult to practice social distancing. The squadron has introduced new procedures that start before the RPA crews leave home, continue throughout their shift and do not end until they return home. Before they report for duty each day, every crewmember makes a personal and environmental self-assessment by reviewing a series of questions, like “How am I feeling? How is the environment that I’ve been around? How have the last 48 hours been? Have I been interacting with people who have been coughing? Have I been practicing social distancing?” “COVID-19 is a threat that can’t be seen, so it’s important to determine if you have been in situations that increase your risk of exposure or have signs and symptoms that suggest COVID-19 infection,” explained Maj. Mary Anne, Flight Commander, Creech Medical Clinic. “Performing the personal and environmental assessment helps to do just that.” Airmen can call the medical hotline if they give a negative response to any of the assessment questions. Based on their symptoms, the medical professional will instruct them to proceed to a testing site or schedule an appointment with their provider Before COVID-19, many crewmembers would vanpool to the squadron facility for mass briefings with other crews and mission teams. Since COVID-19, crewmembers drive in their own cars to the squadron facility where they must wear a facemask and maintain social distancing. The mass briefings have been replaced with multiple smaller ones limited to six or fewer individuals. After the briefings, the pilots and sensor operators certify they are healthy and prepared to fly, then proceed to their cockpit. “The COVID-19 virus is mainly spread between close contacts through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks,” explained Mary Anne. “Social distancing and wearing facemasks help decrease the spread of COVID-19 between people who are crucial to
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(U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. James Thompson)
An MQ-9 Reaper flies a training mission over the Nevada Test and Training Range, July 15, 2019. The Reaper and its aircrew are considered one of the most in-demand aircraft in combat operations due to its ability to provide oversight, gather intelligence and employ munitions on the battlefield for 18-20 hours at a time.
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a mission that is performed around the clock, every day of the year.” Common use surfaces in the squadron building are thoroughly cleaned between each around-theclock, eight-hour shift. “Anything that anybody could have come into contact with has been wiped down by the prior shift before the new team shows up for the day,” explains Auger. Each cockpit is also thoroughly disinfected by the outgoing two-person crew. They wipe down all surfaces from computer screens and monitors to control sticks and throttles. Then the incoming crew repeats the process before they fly. “According to the CDC, it’s also possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a contaminated surface and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes,” said Mary Anne. “It’s challenging to know if you’ve completely disinfected a surface because you can’t see the virus with the naked eye. Disinfecting the commonly used surfaces multiple times a day reduces the likelihood of contamination.” Auger noted that safety precautions continue even when pilots return home. “If they have a garage, they get undressed in the garage, and head into the house to take a shower,”
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said Auger. “If they don’t have a garage, they do the best they can, like leave their boots outside. Then they plug back in for any updates over texts or emails to keep that communication process going. That’s the life cycle of our COVID changes.” COVID-19 health and safety procedures have been modified through the use of available electronic communications and information resources from multiple Department of Defense and Air Force resources. “We make a deliberate effort to make information digestible and actionable for squadron members,” said Auger. “Communication and transparency are critical in preparing for COVID-19. We’re using everything to stay involved and communicate all expectations and issues.” The mission of every 432nd Wing attack squadron is to meet the 24/7 demand for MQ-9 Reaper airpower. The RPA Airmen have adapted to continue fending off the nation’s enemies and the invisible adversary that is COVID-19. “Whether it’s the pilots or the sensors or the maintenance or the mission support, we are engaged in fighting our nation’s enemies,” emphasizes Auger. “That is what gives us meaning and it is why we wake up every day to do the mission.”
Staff Writer GRIFFIN SWARTZELL Published by Colorado Springs Military Newspapers Group, 235 S. Nevada Avenue, Colorado Springs, 80903, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with the 21st Space Wing. This commercial enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military services. Contents of the Space Observer are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the Department of the Air Force. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by DoD, the Department of the Air Force, or CSMNG, of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the 21st Space Wing Public Affairs Office, 775 Loring Ave., Suite 219, Peterson AFB, Colo., 80914-1294, (719) 5565185 or DSN 834-5185, fax (719) 556-7848 or DSN 834-7848. All photographs are Air Force photographs unless otherwise indicated. The Space Observer is published every Thursday. For advertising inquiries, call Colorado Springs Military Newspapers, (719) 634-5905. Employees of Peterson Air Force Base who want to place a free classified advertisement should call (719) 329-5210. Articles, announcements, news briefs or feedback for the Space Observer should be submitted to the 21st SW/PA via space.observer@ us.af.mil. For further information, call 21st SW/PA at (719) 556-5185 or DSN 834-5185 or e-mail space. observer@us.af.mil. Deadline for article submission is noon the Friday one week before publication. All articles, copy and announcements submitted will be edited to conform to AFI Series 35 and the Associated Press Stylebook and Libel Manual. For information in the event of a Peterson Air Force Base emergency, contact the Straight Talk line at (719) 556-9154.
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Airmen urged to maintain healthy dental habits during COVID-19 pandemic By Shireen Bedi | AIR FORCE SURGEON GENERAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS FALLS CHURCH, Va. — March, the U.S. Air Force began deferring routine and non-urgent dental care to slow the spread of COVID-19. In alignment with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Dental Association and Department of Defense policies, most dental care has been deferred, with the exception of emergencies, cases considered medically necessary, and care for deploying and deployed personnel. “Deferring non-urgent dental care is one way we can decrease the chances of spreading COVID-19, while ensuring the health and readiness of our Airmen,” said Col. Donald Sheets, Air Force Dental Policy and Operations chief. “We are still recommending continuing dental exams for active duty Airmen preparing to deploy to ensure they are ready to go out the door. Commanders at all levels are empowered to make the necessary assessments and determine if dental care is critical to the unit mission.” Because the Air Force maintains robust annual medical readiness requirements for its members, the active duty population entered deferred dental operations in good dental health. Sheets stresses the importance of dental health upkeep during this pause on routine care. “Our Airmen get seen every year and usually require very little dental care,” said Sheets. “It is vital that Airmen and their families continue practicing good dental habits and eating a healthy, low sugar diet to maintain their oral health.” While Airmen are aware of proper brushing and flossing techniques, Sheets says Airmen may not be aware of how stress can affect dental health. This is especially important as state governments and the DoD continue implementing social distancing and stay-at-home measures. “In times of stress, people often clench and grind their teeth, or what is also known as parafunction,” said Sheets. “Patients should be aware if they are experiencing increased stress and take steps ensure that they are not negatively impacting their oral health.” Sheets suggests that those who are overcome with stress reach out to their health care provider and take advantage of telehealth services. Additionally, the dental clinic is also available via phone if a patient needs additional guidance. “Our clinics are staffed and Airmen can call their clinics to speak to someone if they have a dental issue without having to physically come into the clinic,” said Sheets. “We can speak to Airmen about preventive measures, discuss home care, and give them guidance on safely coming into the clinic if it is absolutely necessary.” For Airmen who require emergency or deployment-related dental care, Sheets explains that significant precautions are
(U.S. Air Force graphic)
There are tips for maintaining healthy dental habits during COVID-19 pandemic. taken to ensure the safety of medical personnel and patients. “Any time a patient enters a military treatment facility, there is a screening process to assess risk for exposure to COVID-19,” said Sheets. “The dental team checks if a patient knows they have COVID-19 or associated symptoms. We also know that a patient can be asymptomatic, so we employ personal protective equipment, and follow CDC and the ADA safety guidelines on providing care during this pandemic.” Air Force Dental Service medics are vital to preparing Airmen readiness so they can perform their mission at home and abroad, said Sheets. “Our primary goal is to keep everyone safe while maintaining mission-essential readiness requirements,” said Sheets. “Moving forward, we are looking at how to reinstate routine care as the response to COVID-19 allows. It is our job to ensure the oral health of our service members and ensure they are ready to support the mission.” T:9.5” Teeth Grinding & Clenching the day, be mindful if you are grinding or •During •
clenching your teeth. If you notice your teeth are touching during the day, it could be an indication of clenching and grinding. •If • you wake up in the morning with a sore jaw or joint, it could be an indication of teeth grinding or clenching at night. reduction and relaxation strategies can be effec•Stress • tive in preventing teeth grinding or clenching. •If • the problem persists, patients should call their dental clinic as continued grinding and clenching can cause negative oral health concerns – temporomandibular joint pain (TMJ), tooth pain or tooth fracture. •Contact • your dental clinic about teeth grinding and clenching concerns. Patients experiencing severe pain as the result of teeth grinding or clenching qualifies as an emergent need at our dental clinics. •Mouth • guards should come from your dentist. Overthe-counter or store-bought mouth guards can make joint pain worse if they are not adjusted by a dentist.
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Japanese astronaut prepares for flight aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon By 2nd Lt. Idalí Beltré Acevedo | 50TH SPACE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — Four 50th Wing Staff Agency Airmen attended a SpaceX briefing on its latest developments and future travel plans to the International Space Station, by Soichi Noguchi, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut, at Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, April 17. Col. Jack Fischer, 50th Space Wing vice commander and former NASA astronaut, shared the conference, “Preparing for flight aboard SpaceX/Crew Dragon: Post Certification Mission 1,” to keep Airmen engaged and informed on the cooperative efforts to further the space mission alongside SpaceX, Space Force and NASA. “Soichi’s purpose was to share with astronauts and cosmonauts the current status of the Crew Dragon flights and answer questions about training,” Fischer said. “My purpose [in broadcasting the conference] was to share a neat experience with the Airmen and hopefully, inspire them a bit. Despite COVID, space exploration is continuing … and is awesome.” Noguchi, who has been an astronaut since 1996, will travel aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft (also known as Dragon) to the International Space Station alongside three NASA astronauts. The mission, US Crew Vehicle-1, also known as Crew-1, is tentatively set for August 2020. USCV-1 will be the first crewed operational flight of SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft. During the presentation, Noguchi talked about his training for the upcoming Crew-1 mission, elaborated on the design of the Crew Dragon spacecraft and addressed questions from the astronaut and space focused online conference attendees. Noguchi also introduced the mission that precedes Crew-1, Demo-2. “We are now preparing for the first flight of SpaceX and that mission is called Demo-2,” Noguchi said. “NASA astronauts Robert Behnken [Colonel, U.S. Air Force] and Douglas Hurley [Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, Ret.] are training for [what will be] a certification mission. The launch is slated for May 27.” According to NASA, the purpose of the Crew-1 mission is to certify the Dragon spacecraft for operational, long-duration missions to the ISS; laying the foundation for the NASA Commercial Crew Program and the NASA Artemis program, with the goal of landing the first woman and next man on the Moon’s surface by 2024. Moreover, the unprecedented Demo-2 certification miscontinued on p. 7 ➔
(Johnson Space Center courtesy photo)
Soichi Noguchi, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut, is currently undergoing training and is set to travel to space alongside NASA astronauts Col. Michael Hopkins, U.S. Air Force, Cmdr. Victor Glover, U.S. Navy, and Shannon Walker, for the Crew-1 mission, tentatively scheduled for August 2020. Noguchi shared details on his training in preparation for Crew-1 during a briefing broadcasted to 50th Wing Staff Agencies Schriever Airmen, April 17.
(SpaceX courtesy photo)
NASA astronauts Bob Behnken, Col., U.S. Air Force, left, and Doug Hurley, Col., U.S. Marine Corps, Ret., pose in front of SpaceX’s Dragon Crew spacecraft. During a brief shared with 50th Wing Staff Agencies Schriever Airmen on April 17, Soichi Noguchi, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut, highlighted both astronauts will be part of mission Demo-2, the first manned launch of a spacecraft since the termination of the Space Shuttle Program in 2011, scheduled for May 27, 2020. T H U R S D AY, A P R I L 3 0 , 2 0 2 0 | W W W. C S M N G . C O M
(International Space Station courtesy photo)
Space X’s Crew Dragon, shown here with its solar arrays deployed during its first re-flight to the International Space Station for NASA. During a presentation on SpaceX’s latest developments and future launches shared to 50th Wing Staff Agency Airmen on April 17, the Japanese astronaut Soichi Noguchi, elaborated on the design and technologic advancements featured on the spacecraft. ➔ continued from p. 6
sion will feature the first crew of astronauts to launch from American soil since the termination of the Space Shuttle Program in 2011 via the Space Transportation System 135 launch. “Most of the space training will be conducted in Los Angeles, California, [at] SpaceX headquarters,” Noguchi said. “Some of the training will take place in Houston, Texas so I will be moving between those two states.” Fischer shared his time as a NASA astronaut emphasized the importance of training for a mission in space. “The most important training is the emergency training in your transport vehicle and aboard the space station,” he said. “Those procedures have to be second nature so that when [the environment] is smoky, dark and potentially toxic, you can resort to your memorized response and stabilize the situation.” Fischer and Noguchi bonded as they trained together for previous NASA missions. “He was in the astronaut office during my entire time [at the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas],” he said. “We did all sorts of stuff together, including some spacewalk training in our huge pool, the Neutral Buoyancy Lab. He is pure class, and has a big heart. He’s just a great guy.” When recalling his 2017 mission in space – where he logged 136 days in space with two spacewalks, Fischer remembered the negative effects of gravity he felt on his body, but highlighted the rewarding experience of going to space more than made up for the temporary discomfort. “After a long mission, coming back isn’t fun, to put it bluntly, gravity sucks,” he said. “After turning off your vestibular system for a while, the turbulent ride of atmospheric re-entry, parachute opening and landing are definitely not fun. But, you got to go to space, so it’s definitely worth it.” Fischer said both historical missions will have a significant impact on furthering the U.S. space mission and re-establishing the American space program as a world leader. “These astronauts will be flying in a vehicle made by Americans, in America, on an American rocket powered by American engines,” he said. “We’re witnessing the epicenter of space exploration coming back to our country, and it’s exciting to see the re-emergence of U.S. space [flight] power as we define the future.” For more information and official biographies of the aforementioned astronauts, visit https://www.nasa.gov/astronauts and https://iss.jaxa. jp/en/astro/biographies/noguchi/index.html. For a detailed timeline of SpaceX missions to date, visit https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2018/science/ spacex-falcon-launch.html. For more information about SpaceX’s Dragon, visit https://www.spacex.com/crew-dragon. To keep up to date on the latest news regarding the launch of both Demo-2 and Crew-1 missions, visit https:// www.kennedyspacecenter.com/launches-and-events and https://www.nasa.gov/specials/dm2.
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Colorado Air National Guard space warriors fight COVID-19 By Maj. Kinder Blacke | 140TH WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS Since Colorado Gov. Jared Polis activated the Colorado National Guard to join the fight against COVID-19 March 10, 2020, space warriors of the 233rd Space Group have been on the front lines, assisting civil authorities and augmenting critical space missions. More than 10 percent of the Colorado Air National Guard’s space force has stepped in to help in whatever capacity possible to support the community’s efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. Out of the relatively small 233rd Space Group, based in Greeley, Colorado, 21 members are providing direct support to both the citizens and civilian leaders of our community, U.S. Air Force Colonel Michael Bruno, commander, 233 SG, said. “We have filled every request for support so far,” Bruno said. “Our members want to be in the fight. They want to support our community, and they want to assist their neighbors.” One of those space professionals who stepped up to assist on the front lines is U.S. Air Force Maj. Andrew Gold, a missile warning crew commander, currently acting as the liaison officer to the City and County of Denver’s Office of Emergency Management. Gold ensures there is proper communication and coordination between the emergency operations center and the CONG leadership at Joint Forces Headquarters. Gold helps coordinate the efforts of over 130 CONG members who are supporting task forces focused on various missions around the state. “Our Soldiers and Airmen are providing support to emergency operations centers in several counties spread out all over the State of Colorado,” he said. “Additionally, some of our members are supporting the effort to shelter citizens experiencing homelessness who are either high-risk for COVID, have tested positive, or are presumptive positive for COVID-19 in the City and County of Denver.” In support of this mission, known as Task Force Shelter Support, CONG members are helping in ways far from what they are accustomed to, explained Gold. “Instead of fighting wild fires or rescuing people from blizzards, we are distributing meals, conducting health and wellness checks, and supporting the homeless with other things of that nature,” he said. “This unique situation requires a very innovative and unprecedented response,” Gold said, “and the National Guard is helping develop and implement that response in support of our civil partners.” At one of the shelter locations, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Eric Skogen, first sergeant for the newly established 138th Space Control Squadron, 233 SG, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, said he recognized how he and his fellow space professionals could make an impact. “We saw areas where we could improve efficiency, mainly in food delivery,” Skogen said. “We’ve gone down from almost an hour and a half to get 140 people fed, to closer to 30 minutes, so we’re really improving the efficiency and helping to keep this operation running smoothly.” In addition to providing manpower to the task force efforts, space warriors are involved in planning and logistics at all levels. An emergency manager with over 14 years of experience,
(U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer)
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class John Boyle, a 233rd Space Group security forces specialist, Colorado Air National Guard out of Greeley, Colo., gathers meals for lunch for guests at a Denver, April 16, 2020. Members of the Colorado National Guard have been brought on to serve in one of a multitude of task forces, that have been deployed around the state in various capacities to support state and local officials combat the Corona Virus Pandemic. U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Rene Hernandez, a space warrior in the 233 SG, is working in the emergency operations center in Jefferson County. Hernandez is part of the information section where they collect and analyze information to help support current and future planning operations. “We work collectively with other support agencies’ subject matter experts from throughout the community to analyze the current situation and provide planning for the best possible mitigation,” he said. These other support functions include everything from public health and law enforcement to flood specialists, public affairs, and everything in between, he explained. “If a county needs something, we, as representatives from our various fields, can put our heads together to figure out what we need to provide… SMEs (subject matter experts), equipment, resources, information management, for example… to be able to best mitigate the situation,” he said. “We all want to do what we can to help and it truly requires a team effort.” While a significant number of space warriors are serving on that team alongside civilian counterparts in the community, other space professionals have dedicated themselves to ensuring our nation’s critical space missions will continue without fail.
(U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer)
U.S. Senior Airman Jessejames Schulz, a security forces squadron airman, stands guard at the entry at the 233rd Space Warning Squadron, Greeley Air National Guard Base, Colo., April 7, 2020. While many members of the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, are currently under a stay-at-home order due to the COVID19 virus, there are still a number of essential employees like Schulz who are keeping the mission going during this unprecedented time in our nation's history.
8 | SPACE OBSERVER
One of those missions is located at the Greeley Air National Guard Station, the 233rd Space Group’s mobile ground system. “We are maintaining our alert posture, working closely with the 460th Space Wing at Buckley Air Force Base, to ensure uninterrupted missile warning for theater and homeland defense,” Bruno said. There are a few dozen mission-essential members at Greely ANGS who play various roles in ensuring the success of their unique 24/7 space mission including defenders, operators, cyber professionals and logisticians. “Everyone is doing their part as safely as possible,” U.S. Staff Sgt. Dakota Long, a mission essential defender of the 233rd Security Forces Squadron, said. “A lot of individuals are nervous to see how this pandemic will continue to develop over the next few weeks or even months, but the mission is still our main priority. Our service is vital to the capabilities of the U.S. Air Force.” As the situation has evolved, Long said: “We have adjusted our safety procedures as well, wearing proper personal protective equipment and maintaining six feet between each other at all times.” Healthy space professionals are critical to being able to continue the mission at GANGS, as well as across the USAF and U.S. Space Force. “With the depth of talent in the 233rd Space Group, and the unique fact that our space units are spread across the Front Range, the active duty Air Force has called on our space warriors for augmentation,” Bruno said. “Members of our 137th Space Warning Squadron are serving on North American Aerospace Defense Command’s Mission Capability Preservation Team to help ensure continuity of operations for NORAD’s no-fail mission,” Bruno said. There are also space professionals currently providing mission-essential training to both active duty and Air National Guard Airmen in the Space Electronic Warfare community at PAFB. Furthermore, in order to preserve the health and minimize exposure of critical members of the 460th Space Wing mission, 233 SG and 140th Force Support Squadron (services) members have been cooking four hot meals a day for 30 active duty personnel at Buckley AFB, Bruno said. “I could not be more proud of the men and women of the 233rd Space Group,” he said. “Everyone has stepped up and done their part. They are some of the most ingenious Airmen in the military, developing plans to maintain our critical mission readiness, while at the same time maintaining the health and safety of themselves and their teammates.” Positivity, connectivity and resilience continue to permeate through the COANG space community, Long said. “We will continue to adapt to the ongoing trials and tribulations that may be ahead of us.” Despite the challenges already surpassed and those yet to come, these space warriors echoed the same sentiments. Skogen said, “This is what we signed up to do. We’re supporting our families, our communities, our state, and our nation. This is what makes being a Colorado Guardsman important – being able to assist whenever and however needed.”
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Space Force Acquisition Council looks to safeguard space industrial base from COVID-19 impacts SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE PUBLIC AFFAIRS
ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) — In response to COVID-19, the Department of the Air Force is posturing to identify and provide support to the space industrial base, assessing sectors most impacted by the pandemic while creating an environment where companies in need can compete fairly in the event of supplemental federal relief funds. “Our space industrial base is critical to our military and economy,” said Dr. Will Roper, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics and U.S. Space Force Service Acquisition Executive. “The Space Force Acquisition Council held an emergency session to synchronize our response to fragile supply chains, at-risk workforces, and receding commercial markets and we’ll continue to work with the Department of Defense and Congress to get additional help.” Roper said the council directed a comprehensive survey go out to space industrial base sectors, including members and non-members of the Space Enterprise Consortium, several federally funded research and development centers (FFRDCs), and pertinent think tanks. The survey focuses on three distinct priorities: 1. Emerging supply chain, cleared workforce, and markets under
immediate distress; 2. Real bills caused by COVID-19 with the goal of minimizing existing program schedule risks; and 3. Stimulus: Small space vehicles, micro-electronics and other key areas for long-term sustainment. “Assured access to space coupled with a strong space industrial base are fundamental to our national security. The National Reconnaissance Office is committed to working with the Space Acquisition Council and with the U.S. Space Force to ensure the stability of the space sector,” Dr. Christopher Scolese, NRO director. While Air Force officials recognize major suppliers and “prime” companies have been affected by COVID-19, an immediate concern is with tier three and tier four suppliers and vendors, as well as small companies, especially in the small launch, commercial satellite communications, and micro-electronic sectors. "The COVID crisis must not undermine critical space industries,” said Gen. Jay Raymond, U.S. Space Force Chief of Space Operations. “Given the threat to space capabilities posed by potential adversaries, we need to ensure the U.S. space industrial base remains strong — the best in the world at developing national security space systems.”
Veteran-Owned Small Business Serving the Community by Shuttling Essentials Infinity Shuttle is resourceful and committed to serving the community. Following are ways Infinity Shuttle is staying engaged: • Partnering with local nonprofit COSILoveYou to transport donations from city-wide churches to support underserved communities. • Supporting Shield616, a first responder nonprofit, by shuttling hand sanitizer produced at a Ft. Collins distillery to our communities first responders. • Collaborating with Children’s Hospital and Drury Inn by transporting out-of-town families to and from the hospital due to the closure of nearby Ronald McDonald House. • Coordinating with Pikes Peak United Way to provide pickup and delivery of food from local restaurants to Mitchell High School to distribute to families in need.
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SPACE OBSERVER | 9
Space Surveillance Telescope sees first light: through US & Australian partnership
By SMC Public Affairs
LOS ANGELES AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — In partnership with the Australian Ministry of Defense, the U.S. Space Force’s (USSF) Space and Missile Systems Center’s (SMC) Space Surveillance Telescope (SST) Program recently achieved “first light” on March 5, 2020, reaching a key milestone after it was moved from White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico to Harold E. Holt Naval Communications Station in Western Australia. “This key Space Domain Awareness, or SDA, partnership builds on the long history of close defense space cooperation between the United States and Australia and has been a cornerstone of our continued alliance,” said Gordon Kordyak, SMC Special Programs Directorate Space Domain Awareness Division chief. Moving the SST to Australia satisfied a critical objective to improve the broader USSF Space Surveillance Network’s ground-based electro-optical coverage of the geosynchronous space regime. First light is a significant milestone in meeting this objective. It means that course alignment of the telescope optics with the wide field of view camera has been completed to allow the first images of objects in orbit to be seen by the telescope. “Whether it is space traffic management or the
protection and defense of critical space-based capabilities, delivering sensors that continuously improve our ability to maintain real-time awareness of the space domain is essential to facilitate the broader needs of both the U.S. and Australia,” said Lani Smith, SMC Special Programs Directorate deputy director. “The SST program, which is a jointly operated program, represents delivery of our next iteration of sensing capability to meet this need.” The collaboration and installation of the SST in Australia included the successful completion of an Australian purpose-built facility with mission-enabling site infrastructure and a 2-Megawatt Central Power Station for powering the telescope and the site. Moving forward, SST will undergo a comprehensive integration and testing regime before officially entering service in 2022. Once operational, the SST will become part of the global Space Surveillance Network, providing Space Domain Awareness for the United States, Australia and their key allies. The Royal Australian Air Force will operate SST with oversight and management by the USSF 21st Space Wing once the telescope is operational.
Celebrating
(Courtesy Photo by MIT Lincoln Laboratory)
The Space Surveillance Telescope has achieved “first light,” reaching a key milestone after it was moved from New Mexico to Western Australia through a partnership between the U.S.A and Australia. PRESENTED BY:
SENIORS Join the papers of Colorado Publishing House as we help the graduating class of 2020 feel the love! With no prom and uncertain graduation ceremonies, we’re teaming up on a commemorative book created by students, for students to mark this special occasion in an unprecedented time.
2020 Leadership Lessons 4:30-6 p.m. • Virtual Event • Donations Accepted DEBBIE CHANDLER
May 13
Health care administrator Debbie Chandler has a track record of building large medical practices, including Colorado Springs Health Partners and the Colorado Health Medical Group, a physician-led group that serves UCHealth hospitals and clinics. Now the Florida native is focused on a smaller practice as CEO of Matthews-Vu Medical Group.
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Academy unveils memorials at Falcon Stadium honoring Air Force campaigns
(U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Jose Rodriquez)
Memorials honoring Air Force campaigns were unveiled at the U.S. Air Force Academy's Falcon Stadium this month.
By Ray Bowden | U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY PUBLIC AFFAIRS U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. — When Falcon Stadium opens after the global COVID-19 pandemic abates, sports fans will see a series of memorials honoring Airmen who fought in campaigns across the world. Today, the memorial highlights five campaigns: The Berlin Airlift, Operations Allied Force, Desert Storm, Inherent Resolve and Linebacker II. The goal is to eventually include as many as 20 campaigns placed on the walls between the tiers of seats at the stadium. The project is the result of collaboration from several organizations across the base,
including the Academy’s Association of Graduates, the Athletic Department, the Academy Athletic Corporation, the History Office and the Dean of Faculty. “We always want to honor our heritage and educate the public on the history of Airmen,” said Charles Dusch, the Academy’s historian. Gen. David Goldfein, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, and the State of Colorado’s Historical Preservation Office approved the project. “Colorado’s historic preservation office needed to be involved because the Academy
is a national landmark,” Dusch said. “General Goldfein has been involved with the project from the start and his intent is that this memorial celebrates all Airmen." Dusch said Goldfein, a 1983 Academy graduate, recognized the stadium as a focal point for all sports at the school. “It’s not just for football,” Dusch said. “The memorial gives us all a good opportunity to remember whose shoulders we're standing on.” Nate Pine, the Academy’s athletic director said he’s excited for those who visit the
stadium after the coronavirus crisis ends. Pine approved space for the memorial at the stadium. “We've worked with mission elements across the Academy, including the Historian's Office, the Air Force Academy Athletic Corporation, the Military and Strategic Studies Department and the Department of History on this important project and their guidance and input has been instrumental in making this possible," he said. The Air Force Academy Athletic Corporation funded the project.
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SPACE OBSERVER | 11
Spouses can recoup licensure fees after PCS, PCA By Marcus Hill | 50TH SPACE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — Service members and their spouses have the opportunity to save money following permanent changes of station or address through the Department of Defense’s Licensure Reimbursement Program. The LRP, which went into effect May 17, 2019, allows Airmen spouses to recoup up to $1,000 in reimbursement for re-licensure or recertification when they move to a different state. “As military spouses, we do so much in assistance of our service members,” said Colleen Rastellini, 50th Security Forces Squadron budget analyst. “We follow them, we support them when they’re home or away. We literally pick up our lives and our families’ lives and move from location to location. This expense is something we have no control over. We have to pay for this if we want to continue working in the field we’re working in.” Prior to the LRP, a pilot program reimbursed spouses up to $500 for recertification and re-licensing. Depending on a spouse’s career field or how often an Airman PCSes, however, the re-licensing and recertification process can be costly. “From the different articles that I’ve seen with the different spouses and their stories, it can cost anywhere from $150 to more than $1,500,” she said. “Before this became a reality, [re-licensing and recertification costs were] out of pocket every time you PCSed. Some states are better than others and would let you work on your previous license for a period before changing over. Other states were not.” To qualify, the program requires the following from service members: Airman is issued PCS/PCA orders Movement of Airman’s dependent is authorized at government’s expense Airman PCS/PCA to another state (includes Alaska, Hawaii, Washington D.C. and the U.S. territories) Cost must be incurred and paid after the date of the Airman’s PCS/PCA orders are authenticated. (Airman must file a claim within 24 months of the date the orders are authenticated) “Anytime you can save a dollar, then absolutely do so, especially during COVID-19,” Rastellini said. “I think for younger Airmen, it’s even more important to have this.” The act permits multiple uses as long as Airmen and their spouses meet guidelines. Licenses and certifications that qualify for the program vary by state, but the program covers a variety of qualifying costs including exam and registration fees, background checks and more. “It’s an outstanding program and there are a lot of military members who pay a lot of money when they move,” said Melvin Castile, 50th Force Support Squadron community readiness specialist and answers any questions Airmen have regarding the program. “There are a lot of out-of-pocket expenses.” Having the benefits of the DoD paying for those expenses is an opportunity where Airmen should take advantage. Rastellini hopes to see an influx of Airmen using the program. “If we don’t utilize this, it will go away and I’d hate for that to be the case,” Rastellini said. “So many spouses fought for this to become a reality. This is so beneficial, not just to Airmen, but DoD-wide.” Airmen can get information on how to apply by contacting Castile at melvin.castile@ us.af.mil or Rastellini at colleen.rastellini@us.af.mil. For more details about the program, visit veterans.gov/milspouses.
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PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR COMMUNITY RESPONSE REGARDING ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION ACTIVITIES PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule #3 (UCMR 3) sampling results in public wells prompted additional sampling of private and municipal off-base drinking water wells near Peterson Air Force Base (AFB). Treatment systems have been installed at private and municipal wells used as drinking water sources. In addition, Peterson AFB conducted a Preliminary Assessment to identify any potential on base sources. Based on the results the Preliminary Assessment and follow on Site Investigations, it was confirmed that Peterson AFB had PFOS/PFOA impacts to groundwater. These recent Air Force Environmental Restoration Program (ERP) investigations have identified four sites that warrant further evaluation. The Air Force’s ERP provides for the environmental cleanup of contamination whose release is attributable to the Air Force, including immediate actions taken to remove imminent threats to human health and the environment. Public involvement is a key aspect of the ERP and is the reason for this notice.
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Peterson AFB is seeking public input on its ERP to enable meaningful community involvement and to address community needs, concerns, and expectations through face-to-face interviews, telephone interviews, and an online survey. Anyone interested in participating in an interview may call (865) 399-7120 or email PCIPSurvey@aerostar.net. Peterson AFB is encouraging all members of the community to go to https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/5534732/Environmental-InterestSurvey-General-Public-Near-Peterson-AFB by Friday, May 15, 2020 to participate in an anonymous survey.
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Find your new DREAM HOME in our WELCOME HOME section If you have affordable real estate listings, then your home needs to be featured in Welcome Home! For more information call 634-5905.
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CSMNG CSMNG TEASE COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP
ANSWERS CAN BE FOUND IN THE CLASSIFIEDS
COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP
UNIVERSAL CROSSWORD
By Marck McClain Edited by David Steinberg
38 Animal with a snowshoe ACROSS 2 Canyon sound effect variety 3 Shopping basket filler 1 Swiss girl played by 39 Pop the question 4 Not imported, like beer Shirley Temple 40 Pairs savings plan COLORADO SPRINGS5 MILITARYTax-sheltered NEWSPAPER GROUP 6 Country legend McEntire 42 With 44-Down, rooftop 6 Suitable for all viewers 10 “Waterloo” group array 7 Arabian ruler 14 Stage personality 43 Cause of many bogeys? 8 Big ___ (London sight) 15 Cry from the flock 46 Amazon, notably 9 “Life of Pi” director Lee 16 Animated figure 49 Hinge and Tinder 10 TakingCSMNG a breather CSMNG 17 Picture-framing hobbyists? CSMNG CSMNG 50 Exodus food 11 Expo stall 20 More than none 51 ___, dos, tres 12 Kind of knife 21 That filly 52 A4 automaker 13 South American range 22 Fix, as loose laces 56 Highly intelligent billy 18 Pizza crust choice 23 Go sideways? goats? 19 Longtime friend 25 Tromps through puddles 60 Olympics sword 24 Reunion folks 61 “Cinderella” event 27 Company that makes 25 Side with cabbage playing cards and poker 62 Cranium cover 26 ___ Cruces chips? 63 Foxx of “Sanford and Son” 27 Ali who said “Open, 31 One more time 64 “Buyer beware” phrase sesame!” 32 With 30-Down, really simple 65 Substantial 28 Fragile ones are easily 33 Lobster dinner garment bruised DOWN 36 Pear variety 29 Chore list entry 37 Judge’s concern 1 Stetsons, e.g. 30 See 32-Across
CSMNG
COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP
COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP
33 Mostly Hindu island in Indonesia 34 Persian Gulf nation 35 Floating hazard 37 Tolkien trilogy, briefly 38 Spicy condiment 40 ___ Lama 41 Find a purpose for 42 Fuel additive brand 43 Said “This answer starts with an H,” e.g. 44 See 42-Across 45 Stratford-___-Avon 46 Glowing coal, say 47 Brownish gray 48 Paid for a hand 51 Wrinkly fruit 53 “Wild Blue Yonder” org. 54 Shoulder muscle, for short 55 Kids’ guessing game 57 Org. for Lakers and Sixers 58 Helium, for one 59 Suffix of uncertainty
CSMNG COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP
COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP
COLORADO SPRINGS MILITARY NEWSPAPER GROUP
Welcome Home
©2020 Andrews McMeel Syndication • www.upuzzles.com • 05/02
Your source for affordable military housing in the Colorado Springs area. For advertising information call 719-634-5905
VA
STREAMLINE REFINANCE
Home Starts Here At Peterson and Schriever Air Force Base, experience our comfortable homes, no monthly pet-rent, community amenities, *utilities included, 24/7 emergency maintenance and more. Your home starts here! We proudly serve active duty military, federal civil service, National Guard/Reservist, **DoD contractors and retired military.
Apply today
866.694.2018
www.tierra-vista.com TVC_PAFB_SAFB_Advert_6.6x5.indd 4
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* Utility allowance based on community average. ** DoD contractor housing available at Schriever only.
BENEFITS: • Low Rates • No Appraisal • No income or asset documentation required (in most cases) • Simple and fast closing
Call me today to learn more about a Mortgage Loan with Rocky Mountain Bank & Trust!
Bonnie Beckman Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1409071
Office: 719-579-7628 Cell: 719-440-5106 bbeckman@rmbt.net www.rmbt.com
125 years of community banking NMLSR #628210 Member FDIC
755 Cheyenne Meadows Rd. Colorado Springs, CO 80906
12/5/17 12:54 PM
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Welcome Home ABR GRI MREP
“Location... Location... Location...”
Looking to buy or sell your home? Call me! dianejmontoya1@icloud.com | Find me on Realtor.com
719-231-9425
Serving Pueblo and Colorado Springs with integrity, trust, and experience since 1998
For advertising information call 719-634-5905 OVER $21,300,000 SOLD IN 2019
Bobbi Price Team
Diane J. Montoya
Your source for affordable military housing in the Colorado Springs area.
• Past Recipient Realtor Sales Person of the Year • Member OF Elite 25 & Peak Producers • Top 1% Nationally
BOBBI PRICE: 719-499-9451 JADE BAKER: 719-201-6749 WEBSITE: www.bobbiprice.com EMAIL: bobbipriceteam@gmail.com
2011 Best of the Springs Realtor – The Independent
WHEN YOU’RE SERIOUS ABOUT REAL ESTATE 1503 Lakemoor Drive – Florissant - $299,900 Cozy chalet on 10 view acres. Cute little 1152 sq. ft. 1 ½-story on 10 beautiful acres overlooking Lakemoor Valley with stream. 3 beds, 1 ½ baths. 1 carport. Wood-burning stove. All appliances. 16x16 lattice covered deck plus over 50’ of wrap around decking that is freshly painted. 4 sheds. Manual gated entrance. Security cameras. Gorgeous sloping 10 acre lot with dramatic rock formations, Aspen, & towering pines. MLS# 4729983
Serving Active Duty and Veterans
★ BUYING ★ SELLING ★ RENTING
We have helped hundreds of Active Duty and Vets!
397 S. Tejon Lane – Pueblo West - $384,900 Pueblo West new construction on 2.47 acres. 1-level 2338 sq. ft. 3 bed rancher on 2.47 acres zoned for horses. Open concept floor plan. Stucco with metal roof. 3-car garage. Granite throughout. Vaulted 9’ ceilings. Central air. Gourmet kitchen. 77’ covered rear patio & 44’ covered front porch. Office. Formal dining. Arches. Horses welcome. Views everywhere. Can pick all interior finishes. MLS# 1938545
13964 Paradise Villas Grove – Northgate - $465,000 Beautiful 3744 sq. ft. 4 bed, 3 ½ bath rancher patio home in an upscale gated community. Main level living. Granite & stainless steel kitchen. Gaslog fireplace. 9’ & 12’ ceilings. A/C. Wet bar. 2 remodeled baths. $110K in updates & upgrades. 2-car garage. 2 covered patios. USAFA & mountain views. $240/mo HOA to ensure carefree lifestyle. Minutes from the Air Force Academy, I-25, shopping, & dining. D-20 schools. MLS# 9927851
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989 S Rudioso Drive – Pueblo West - $479,900 Custom 2-story on 2.22 acres. 4580 sq. ft. 5 bed, 3 ½ bath 2-story with garage spaces for 7 cars. Over 2 acres backing to the trail system going to the Pueblo Reservoir. Zoned for horses. Covered deck, patio, & front porch. 2 fireplaces. A/C. Wet bar. Security system. Sweeping mountain & Pikes Peak views. Originally built by a builder for his family. MLS# 9762797
Call The Dan Russell Team at Columbo Real Estate Group
719-COLUMBO (265-8626) columboreg.com
MORE GREAT LISTINGS
Air Force Academy Military Communities now open to all American Heroes Email: afacontact@huntcompanies.com to schedule a tour! Veterans gold star families widows First Responders EMT Firefighters police all welcome to join our community
Enjoy the beauty and peace of living mountainside in Colorado Springs! District 20 schools 24/7 Emergency Maintenance On-site property management team focused on serving your family Resident focused events New community center opening! 6556 W Columbine Drive USAF, Academy, CO 80840 (719) 867-9688 airforceacademyhousing.com
If you have affordable real estate listings, then your home needs to be featured in Welcome Home! W W W. C S M N G . C O M | T H U R S D AY, A P R I L 3 0 , 2 0 2 0
124 Neeper Valley Road Crystal Park • $48,000 Land 0 Upper Sun Valley Road Crystal Park • $49,900 Land 1655 Aldrin Place Park Ridge • $65,000 Land 1715 Aldrin Place Park Ridge • $65,000 Land 213 Coffee Pot Road Crystal Park • $75,000 Land 319 Forest Road Crystal Park • $75,000 Land 316 Summit Ridge Road Crystal Park • $75,000 Land 1210 Woodland Valley Ranch Drive Fairway Pines • $94,900 Land 282 Eagle Mountain Road Crystal Park • $120,000 Land
3850 Strawberry Fields Grove #C Strawberry Fields • $209,900 Condo/Under Contract
739 S Watermelon Drive Pueblo West • $253,500 New Construction/Under Contract
1225 N Devils Claw Place Pueblo West • $218,500 New Construction/Under Contract
1503 Lakemoor Drive Florissant • $299,900
2316 Willamette Avenue Old Colorado City • $225,000 1804 Hallam Avenue Security • $239,900 Under Contract 840 S Waterleaf Place Pueblo West • $240,900 New Construction 1136 N Calico Rock Land Pueblo West • $240,900 New Construction/Under Contract 411 E Goldenrod Drive Pueblo West • $248,900 New Construction 869 E Cholla Drive Pueblo West • $248,900 New Construction/Under Contract
804 S Rancocas Drive Pueblo West • $345,000 New Construction/Under Contract 777 S Watermelon Drive Pueblo West • $348,000 New Construction/Under Contract 397 S Tejon Lane Pueblo West • $384,900 13964 Paradise Villas Grove Northgate • $465,000 Patio Home 989 S Rudioso Drive Pueblo West 4479,900 6925 Forestgate Drive Highland Park • $799,900 Under Contract
NEW CONCEPT HOMES PUEBLO WEST $234,500 to $253,500 Brand new homes with 12 floor plans to choose from. All homes are 1620 sq. ft. with 2 to 4 bedrooms, 1 to 2 bathrooms & a 2-car garage. Mother-in-law suite or duplex floorplan available. Central air & appliances included. Stucco exterior, metal roof & 2x6 construction. Built with pride by New Concept Homes. Several 0.28 to 1 acre lots available. VA & FHA financing available. Call for more details.
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It’s time to trek to the summit!
Go to CSBJ.com/vote to vote for the peak local businesses!
VOTING OPEN APRIL 3 – MAY 17
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