Checkpoints June 2008

CHECKPOINTS OF

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1959-2008 STILL EXPECTING

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GREAT THINGS

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June 2008

The Air Force Academy continues to build leaders of character for the nation who develop the skills of perseverance and team work with guidance from upper

class cadets and support from their peers. Just as the tradition of excellence in leadership training is essential to achieve this mission of the Academy, the

tradition of giving and the positive impact it has made on USAFA over the years is also crucial to preserving and enhancing the exceptional Academy experience.

Your donation will help supply the Air Force and our nation with the best and most prepared leaders.

Make a gift to the Air Force Academy Fund today.

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contents june 2008

columns LETTERS

4

FROM THE BOARD ROOM

6

Q & A WITH THE DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS

10

12

features 12 50 YEARS LATER

Fifty years after the Class of 1959 received their commissions, the nation still “expects great things” of all USAFA grads.

20 MATCHING MOUNTAINS AND FULFILLING MISSIONS Part one of a grad’s perspective of USAFA’s true value.

30 A PASTEL HORIZON

A surprising glimpse of the bounty of breathtaking art and

historical artifacts housed at USAFA.

60

FOURTH YEAR EXPERIENCE

The Class of 2011 faced a tough road when they showed up at

the Academy last summer, but since then they have proven they

have what it takes to excel at USAFA.

ON THE COVER

The Classes of 1959 and 2008 are different in many ways, but

the ties that bind all graduates are as strong as ever.

(Illustration by Lewis Carlyle and Sarah Wright)

2

Volume 37, number 1

f

Association of Graduates # UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY

l\ ¥

3116 Academy Drive USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475

Customer Service: (719) 472-0300 DSN: 333-2067 Fax: (719) 333-4194

E-mail: aog@aogusafa.org

Web Site: www.usafa.org

62

EXECUTIVE OFFICE

President/CEO: Gary Howe, '69

off the shelf

COMMUNICATIONS Director of Communication & Senior Editor: Bob McAllister

18

BACK TO IRAQ

26

AIR, SPACE AND CYBERSPACE

33

OMAR BRADLEY

38

NEWS OF NOTE

Editor & Photographer: Ken Wright

-

Asst. Editor & Photographer: Lewis Carlyle

Senior Designer: Sarah Wright

Class News Editor: Tom Kroboth

BOOK REVIEW

39

FEMALE U-2 PILOTS

40

CADETS BUILD HOGANS

46

LONG BLUE LINE

50

ONCE UPON A TIME

56

WALDO DUMBSQUAT

58

ASTRO CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

Advertising: Alex Chavarria & Kyle Davidson Web Site: Matt Kleve & Kyle Davidson BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jim Wheeler, '64, Board Chair Pat Rosenow, 76, Vice Chair

Bill Boisture, '67, Treasurer Michael Banks, '92, Secretary Kevin Carmichael, 77

Steve Dotson, '63 Steve Finch, '65

Mike Flynn, '95 Fred Gregory, '64 Allison Hickey, '80 John Stealey, 70

Terry Storm, '61 George Van Wagenen, '67

sports 64

HOCKEY TEAM WINS AHA TITLE AGAIN

65

AF STANDS PAT ON POLICY FOR ATHLETES

66

STINE EARNS TEAM MVP AWARD

70

CHAPTER NEWS

76

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

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: 3332067. 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

81

CLASS NEWS

change of address to Checkpoints, Association ofGraduates, Doolittle Hall, 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy,

back of the book

CO 80840-4475.

Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policy or attitude of the Association of Graduates, its officers or the editorial staff. The appearance of advertisements in this publication does not constitute an

endorsement by the Association of Graduates

of the products or services advertised. Copyright, Association of Graduates of the U.S. Air Force

Academy, June 2008.

that Hussein had nothing to do with 9/11. I remember how

President Bush then had to change his motive for war, once WMD were not found in Iraq. Even Vice President Cheney

previously had expressed strong disagreement with toppling Hussein’s regime, when he served under President George H. Bush, Cheney knew then the difficulty, the profound costs, the profound disruption, and the protracted involvement entailed in such a plan. The war, then, takes on an appearance of, yes, being on shaky grounds in our pursuit of expressed national interests in the Middle East. If you, the reader, are not familiar

with this issue, I suggest that you do a Web search for “Project for a New American Century.”

How to reconcile differences of opinion regarding something

May the Dialogue Continue

weighty as engaging in war? Dialogue is essential. A pretense of unity, when there is none, would only propagate policies as

The April 7, 2008 issue of Air Force Times cited a recent Gallup survey on views of the Iraq war. Fifty-four percent responded that the history would eventually judge the U.S. invasion and

that don’t necessarily reflect the majority will of the people. We

subsequent involvement in Iraq as mostly or totally a failure.

gent views. Only in that way, I believe, can we come closer to

Forty-two percent judged it mostly or totally a success.

the truth of an issue, and to the wisest course to follow.

Those survey results were in mind as I read the article by

can, then, remain united as a nation while

welcoming diver-

May the dialogue continue.

Col. Roger Graham, ’63, on the A-26 Nimrods ( Checkpoints,

John “JC” Miller, Class of 1969

March 2008). He concluded that with respect to the War on

Terror, Americans need to be united and patient, and that

Opposing Perspectives

American politicians need to support our national interest

I noted an interesting contrast in approach between two

and troops.

articles in March’s Checkpoints

In light of the Gallup poll, however, it becomes apparent

that Americans are not (and have not been) united on our present

war

effort.

,

one

that mirrors two different

approaches I’ve observed throughout my career. Col. (Ret.) Roger Graham’s synopsis of his excellent book The Nimrods ended with a list of the author’s “lessons learned” that had little

And, how is our national interest determined? In a democ-

to do with the conduct of

military operations and a lot to do

racy, military and civilian leadership cannot ignore the will of

with domestic politics. A few pages later, Frederick Malm-

the people. We are a diverse nation with diverse views. Dis-

strom’s review of Words for Warriors: a Professional Soldier’s

sent, then, can

keeps

us

from having blinders on. Divergent views

be aired and considered, as they should be.

Col. Graham says that the lessons learned from Vietnam are

political,

not

military. I agree. It was as a cadet that I

Notebook, emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and points out that recent scandals like Abu Ghraib resulted in part from a failure of military leadership.

In every unit I’ve ever been in, there have been those who

learned from a classmate’s senior English essay that it was

were

only after our refusal to support the U.N. Geneva Accord

forces, whether they be the media, the public, or politicians.

vote in nam

1956 to determine the leadership of a unified Viet-

that Ho Chi Minh resorted to war. Vietnam’s struggle,

then, took on a nationalistic tone, much like that of our own nation over 200 years ago, to throw off foreign control. Our

justification for invading Vietnam began to appear questionable to me from the beginning. Remember then how Pres.

Johnson and his staff misled us—lied to us—in drawing our nation further into the Vietnam War. I’m referring to the Gulf of Tonkin incident.

When we send even a single soldier into battle who then dies in a war of such uncertain “rightness,” then we must not forget

that lesson.

So here we are at war in Iraq. I remember how Presisdent

Bush held a virtual obsession regarding attacking Iraq, against

his own intelligence advice, after 9/11. You may read of this

inclined to blame the military’s problems on external

They have generally outnumbered those in the unit who were willing to take a hard look at things when they went wrong. I commend Mr. Malmstrom for having the courage to call attention to the too-frequent lack of accountability and real leadership in our military. The kind of clear-eyed analysis he offers can

make a positive difference, both in the effectiveness of our

military units and in how our military is perceived by the general populace, in the U.S. and around the world. On the other hand, Col. Graham’s exhortations for Americans, well-intended though they may be, will at best only fall on deaf ears. At worst

they could provoke an anti-military backlash. If our country is to remain truly free, we in the military must remember that our obligation is to our mission and our troops—haranging civilians on how they should behave and what they should think is best left to pundits and politicians.

in the book Against All Enemies by Richard A. Clarke, Presi-

dent Bush’s former anti-terrorism czar. Clarke assured him

4

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2 008

Graham Whitehouse, Class of 1993

any readers save old editions of Checkpoints

Toast to 2011

case

As a USAFA graduate, I stand humbly in awe of the Class of

reading an article I wrote,

“

,

they may enjoy

Field ofDreams,” that appeared on pp.

2011. These future officers aspire to and achieve greatness; a

32-33 of the Winter ’94 -’95 edition. It highlighted my real-life

direct consequence of the leadership that set the foundation for

questioning the merits of the current institution. Those discus-

experience of my repetitive dream scenario when I attended our 25th year reunion (’69). Finally, at the reunion, I really was on a first-name basis with senior officers at the Academy; some of

sions now seem ethereal as I reflect as a parent and benefactor on

them were my classmates!

the Academy experience this past year.

It would be interesting to hear of other grads’ experiences with repetitive USAFA dreams.

John “JC”Miller, Class of 1969

their success. For three decades, I have read alumni exchanges

Most notably, my family was blessed after our home was deci-

mated by a fire on Thanksgiving Day. The Class of 2011 rallied the Cadet Wing to help us through this tragedy. Before Christmas, my son’s AOC, a

Maj. Kathrine Winans, presented me with

check for $6,000 raised by the cadets. The gift seriously helped

In reference to “I Woke Up Screaming,” by Frederick Malmstrom,

’64, I’m exactly average in having had dreams of being a cadet

What makes the feat extraordinary is that the fundraising was

again: perhaps two to four times a year, though my subjective impression is that they’ve been decreasing in frequency since I

accomplished during finals week!

left active duty in 1999.

us, as it would be months before we received insurance benefits.

It is rare to see this level of esprit de corps, professionalism and

unity in an organization. Yet I was not surprised. From BCT to

Recognition, I have personally witnessed the supreme mentorship by the upper class cadets, the officer and NCO staff, the commandant and the superintendent. The contemporary Academy structure and leadership deserve the credit. My family is now leveraging this gift by funding medical and construction supplies to rebuild an earthquake-damaged hospital in Peru. True to their calling, the Class of 2011 cadets will provide the labor during summer leave along with civilian students they recruited for this mission.

once

I never woke up screaming, though sometimes I am uneasy.

Sometimes, I somehow know I’m dreaming, and know it’s anachronistic, but cannot wake up right away. I am always my current age and in wheezy, 70 percent disabled condition, but some-

(never identified, not even to the extent of being a vaguely threatening upperclassman, nor AOC) plainly expects me to keep up with the 19-year-olds physically, and refuses to listen to my excuse-mongering—even implying that I’m unprofessionally (or unethically!) shirking, by telling the bald truth about my inability to run, jump, or do pull-ups. Occasionally, there is a sense that one

the time pressure is on, that I’m going to miss a deadline, but I Al Wallace, Class of 1980

haven’t the faintest notion what I ought to be doing to remedy

the situation.

I). Spraggins, Class of 1975

Kudos forthe Board I am writing to express my appreciation to you and the AOG

Board for its decision to run the Blue Alliance advertisement in

Checkpoints. I believe strongly that this is an appropriate decision.

I hope that the awareness of a LGBT Graduate group from the USAF Academy will be helpful in keeping the Academy’s perspective in place... that intolerance and discrimination to any segment

of our society diminishes the overall mission effectiveness of its

product. I also hope, fervently, that this education process may be useful in preventing future bad press which the women integration issues at USAFA generated some years back. The board’s decision is proper and forthright. Thank you!

Tom Brumlik, Class of 1972

Letters Submission Guidelines

Checkpoints welcomes letters from its readers. Please limit your submission to 250 words. For your letter to be consid-

ered, you must include your name and graduating year, if you are an Academy graduate.

Letters should be e-mailed to editor@aogusafa.org.

Checkpoints reserves the right to edit all submissions.

Screaming Praise “I Woke Up Screaming by Frederick Malmstrom, ’64, (March ’08 issue) brought back memories of a repetitive dream that I’ve had of being back at USAFA as a cadet. My dream (I’ve had roughly forty of them that I’ve kept track of) usually includes me as an older cadet (my present age), re-experiencing the system there, with one significant difference. I’m on a very casual, first-name

basis with senior officers. Thus the dream has a compensatory

quality to it and usually generates quite a pleasant mood, in contrast with the mood of most dreamers

that Fred wrote about. In

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

5

AS YOU MAKE YOUR WAY THROUGH this informative and colorful issue of Checkpoints I encourage you to take a few minutes to reflect on ,

significant milestones that will be observed in 2008. Specifically, the Class of 2008 is the 50 th graduating class from our school and this year the AOG officially turns 40. Where does the time go?

After the new lieutenants toss their hats, pack their cars, and take two

their last look at USAFA in the rearview mirror, they

and we

-

—

must

acknowledge that they are entering an Air Force much different from what we found. As they join the Long Blue Line with pride and eager anticipation of the life adventures that await each of them, on behalf of the AOG membership, I welcome them to the graduate community and wish them a safe and productive journey in service to our country.

Our association was officially formed as a Colorado corporation in 1968. From a modest beginning, the AOG has become an important and permanent part of the Academy family. Many people members, staff, directors, donors, parents, and friends have played a role in the growth and successes of the AOG. Through governance disputes, Academy crises, fiscal challenges, war and peace, good times and bad, the AOG has pursued a three part mission that persists: Service to graduates; Promotion of the heritage and traditions of the Academy; Support for the Academy.

-

-

Few alumni organizations offer the full range of services to

administrative infrastructure to conduct a successful campaign.

their membership that our AOG provides. A quick visit to

Further, successful fund raising is not a unique event; rather,

the AOG Web site (www.usafa.org ) will lend insight and may

successful fund raising reflects a process over time that cultivates

surprise you. Do you want to get in touch with a classmate? Reg-

donors, nurtures their commitment, builds credibility with them, and provides reliable stewardship for all gifts. Growing

ister for a class reunion? Join an AOG chapter? Get some career assistance or purchase an Academy souvenir? Do you want to visit the Academy or perhaps endow a gift? Whatever you might

small donors into large donors is an ongoing challenge that typi-

need, you’ll be impressed by the array of services and the knowl-

cally falls to the alumni organization of a university. There must be continuity and stability within the fund raising entity to gain

edgeable people who keep our AOG running smoothly. If you’ve

and retain donor support.

never

visited Doolittle Flail, put it on your list for the next time

you’re in Colorado. I promise you’ll be impressed.

The heritage and traditions of our school are the glue that binds all graduates together no matter our graduating class, gender, or career field. We all reflect a common background from our time at the Academy, and it is appropriate that the AOG is active in the promotion of the heritage and traditions we share. We need to appreciate, however, that the AOG is not in the policy making business when it comes to matters that impact the heritage and traditions of the Academy. The Cadet Wing and the USAFA chain of command determine the rules, while the AOG works to preserve and promote heritage and traditions in meaningful ways: the Heritage Trail, the Graduate War Memorial, the Class Wall, the Memorial Pavilion at the Academy Cemetery, and the new Mall of Heroes are prime examples.

Support for the Academy and the Cadet Wing is addressed in the AOG Bylaws adopted by the membership in 2006. The AOG mission statement calls for the AOG to work “... in partnership with the Academy to produce and foster graduates with an enduring commitment to integrity, excellence, and service to country.”

In Article X of the bylaws, this statement is made: “To help accomplish the mission of the AOG, a core purpose of the AOG is to work in support of the Air Force, the Academy, and the graduates to raise private funds to support and develop Academy, cadet and graduate programs that would otherwise not be funded.”

This whole area of private support and fund raising for the Academy has received a great deal of attention in the AOG boardroom in recent months and is deserving of some comments.

But, first, one additional statement from the bylaws to set the stage: “Vision: The Association of Graduates (AOG) aspires to be the primary organization of United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) graduates andfriends dedicated to supporting the Academy mission ofbuilding leaders ofcharacter for the Air Force and the nation and aspires to provide service and support for graduates and cadets.

It is generally accepted that USAFA needs private support to augment federal funding. Let’s also recognize that most of ,

”

this support will come from a rather narrow audience which is anchored in the extended graduate community. At the same time,

multiple, independent nonprofit corporate players exist to provide private support for the Academy each with its own support objectives; each operating with a unique governance structure; and all attempting to raise money from the same audience. But, only the AOG has the resources, the history and experience, the communications links, the physical presence, and the broad base -

of support within the target audience.

Successful fund raising

-

in any setting

-

depends on having

well defined target audience,

having strong being able to communicate with that audience, and having the a

case

statement,

a

To say that fund raising at the service academies is a challenge is

typical civilian university is funded differently, is structured differently, and enjoys an environment with fewer constraints and more opportunities for raising money to understate the obvious. The

from a much broader target audience. Yet we know that at USMA and USNA it has been possible to raise large sums of private money to support unfunded programs.

As previously mentioned, the USAFA nonprofit community has

several unique players. Some have existed for many years; some are

inactive at present. In fact, the AOG has been, and still is, the

biggest and most visible fund raising entity. The emergence of two more nonprofit corporations this year will expand the USAFA nonprofit community but the jury is out on how they will fit in and the impact they will have on the existing nonprofits and donors. The core issue and key question is “Will the new entities be able to attract new money or will they just cause the private support to be directed through different channels?”

Since most of the private support for the Academy will come from the same audience independent of the soliciting organization, it follows that the nonprofits doing fund raising to support the Academy must try to cooperate and collaborate, not compete.

Major fund raising programs will be most successful when all of the nonprofits are working together. It is also logical that fund raising costs will be minimized when all of the nonprofits are working together in support of Academy endorsed projects and programs. However, each organization has its own needs and interests; therefore, finding ways for the independent nonprofits to work together becomes a major challenge.

As you may know, many civilian universities have found that

separating fund raising and alumni functions has been a practical and successful organizational model for institutional fund raising. Interestingly, USMA and USNA have been very successful in raising large sums of money but they do not use the civilian model and they operate from two distinctly different fund raising structures. Navy is closest to the civilian model; while West Point has integrated both functions into their AOG. While we can learn from both, the circumstances that fostered their structures are unique to each of

them; and, based on information available to me, there

is no convincing argument to suggest that either model is directly

applicable to USAFA. The other academies have evolved over a very long period, during different economic times, and have had time to absorb governance and environmental changes that are still part of our equation as we seek a fund raising model for our school.

Blending the independent players into a coalition to accomplish fund raising is a promising approach, but questions persist about how the USAFA nonprofit community should be organized: If we could design a structure that the nonprofits would •

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

7

•

accept, how would it be administered?

How would a consensus be forged?

better understanding of what is needed going forward; and •

comprehensive review of the Case Statement for private

a

•

How would group decisions be carried out?

•

What are the legal considerations / requirements?

•

How are fiduciary roles reconciled among independent cor-

in trying to find an organizational model for “development” at

porations if they are brought together in a coalition to serve a common purpose?

And, most importantly, what happens when one or more of

USAFA. He hosted a meeting last August for representatives of

•

the independent entities decides it does not want to play?

Some will consider these questions and conclude that the only

rational solution is to consolidate all fund raising activities under the AOG. The simplicity of this approach is appealing on many

fund raising at the Air Force Academy.

The Academy superintendent has taken a personal interest

the nonprofits supporting USAFA and met with the AOG Board of Directors in February and again in May to explore the future of

private fund raising at our school. He will host another nonprofit summit in August. The AOG board looks forward to interacting with General Regni and the other nonprofits to find a formula for success.

levels; but, unfortunately, it ignores that other interested parties

This is not an easy riddle to solve.

There will be more on the role of the AOG in private fund rais-

will be able to evaluate the information available and reach differ-

ing in future issues of Checkpoints but a summary statement is in

ent conclusions.

order. The AOG Board of Directors is committed to working with

One approach that has been suggested to separate impressions from facts and to determine what practical alternatives might exist

the superintendent and all interested parties to create an effective

,

fund raising structure that will serve the long term interests of

is to have the nonprofits, in conjunction with the Academy Staff,

the Academy and the AOG. It is appropriate that the AOG plays

undertake a formal study.

a

Topics to be addressed would logically

include the following: •

a

rigorous review of fund raising at the other federally

funded service academies; •

•

positive and productive role in this quest. However, the first obligation of the board is to insure the economic viability of the AOG. This requirement will be uppermost in our minds as we continue the discussions.

H

investigation of the classic “university” model to better understand its possible application at USAFA; an examination of fund raising at USAFA today to give everyone a more complete picture of what we have and a an

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87543-0408

Cleaves, '85 returns to lead mnri

Admissions Directorate

BY MELINDA VIDAL, ADMISSIONS MARKETING AND MEDIA

PHOTO BY LEWIS CARLYLE

T

he Air Force Academy is excited

truly require that kind of effort.

to welcome back one of its own:

3. Prioritize and be proactive—get out

2. Develop an Admissions Strategic Plan to

guide our organization internally

Oct. 1, 2007, Col. Chevalier

in front of the issues.. .1 neither want

and to communicate effectively with

P. “Chevy” Cleaves, ’85, became

the Superintendent to have to think

our

on

USAFA’s 12 th Director of Admissions.

for me, nor do I want to have to

“I count it a great honor to return to my

think for our experts.

alma mater and to be able to engage so di-

reedy in helping shape our future Air Force leaders,” said Cleaves. The colonel leads a 60person staff, a world-wide force of over 1,600 Admissions Liaison Officers, and manages an annual budget of over $1.1 million. He

capacity for information intake

and application is huge

...

let’s push

the envelope.

5. Spare no effort when supporting USAFA’s mission—always look for

develops policy, strategy, and plans required

a

for admissions programming for the Acad-

what we do.”

Although there is more to planning than just goals, this might be a good place to share our Admissions Directorate Strategic goals: a. Tell the Academy story through innovative use of a comprehensive strategic communication plan. b. Locate students with potential ners.

4. Frontload information and ideas— our

stakeholders and potential part-

to become officers of character.

way to improve who we are and c.

emy, the Academy Preparatory School, and

USAFA cadet wing to better

Falcon/Skelly Foundation Scholarships.

Q: What were your immediate priorities?

educate and train future officers

Q: What was your initial direction to the

A: “I had to learn as much as I could from

expected to serve and lead in a diverse and expeditionary force.

Admissions Directorate?

all of our Harmon Hall admissions profes-

d. Select the best candidates who

sionals. They developed a fairly in depth A: “I commended them for the obviously

series of immersions that proved invalu-

great work they were already doing. Col

able. I did have a bit of a running start,

(Ret.) Trapper Carpenter, ’73, clearly led

because I started building background

a

professional organization which enabled

them to so ably serve USAFA in order to

bring in America’s best and brightest every year. I also shared my focus: 1. Work hard—continually push to be

the best.

2. Keep the easy things easy—devote

time and energy to those areas that

10

Expand the diversity of the

knowledge and thinking about admissions ideas/initiatives when I began considering the job at the end of July. I also saw the need to do several other things quickly: 1. Restructure the Admissions Directorate to facilitate communication,

inte-

grate operations, and improve overall efficiency and effectiveness.

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE

2008

will serve and lead the Air Force. e.

Integrate state-of-the-art tech-

nology into our business and program development processes. f. Maintain a highly trained, mission oriented and motivated

workforce. g. Sustain the resources required for mission accomplishment

and growth.

3. Initiate an Expanded Engagement

Strategy. We are already very successful

in many ways, but I think we can really turn the corner

by focusing all Admis-

sions resources and using the foil spec-

Q: What did you find most surprising about coming back to the Academy from the Pentagon and the Joint Staff?

trum of team members from our strate-

gic partners to our Parents’ Clubs.”

A: “I was surprised at how busy the environment is here.

I enjoy working hard so

Q: What are some of the major projects

it was great to find that while it is not the

you and your team have created to sup-

same as

port those priorities?

J3, it is still a very dynamic assignment. What wasn’t surprising was the

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ FIVE-STAR CATERING

number of committed professionals I have A: “We have done many things that I

the pleasure of working with every day.

believe are noteworthy, both in their im-

From the superintendent, to the comman-

mediate application and what I think will

dant, dean, athletic director, command chief, to the Air Base Wing, Prep School

prove to be their long term impact. Three that I’d like to highlight here are: 1. A redesigned Admissions website.

USAFA has a great story to tell and

and Flying Training Group commanders, the DRU directorate chiefs, and all of

their associated staffs

...

there is a vision

need to visually showcase what

and steadfast dedication to recruit, retain,

makes USAFA and its graduates spe-

grow, encourage, and graduate officers of character for the nation who will lead this

we

cial. We face a challenge of name rec-

ognition. As the youngest of the three

largest service academies, we are not as

well known as West Point and An-

napolis, especially in the east. When our new

website is finished, we will

country both in and out of uniform.”

Colonel Cleaves sees his mission as

creating a vision for the entire Admissions team.

“I will spare no expense (in terms

of dedication, effort, and focus) in order

have taken a major step towards tell-

to ensure that we

ing the stories that will draw the best

execute USAFA’s mission.”

candidates our nation has to offer.

2. A reenergized ALO Advisory Panel.

help the superintendent

Colonel Cleaves is a command pilot, with operational experience as a KC-

Originally designed to advise the Di-

135 instructor pilot, assistant operations

rector of Admissions on ALO force

officer, and squadron commander; an

issues, the new model provides a board of directors oversight to the ALO force which today numbers 1,644 strong.

Undergraduate Pilot Training T-38 flight commander; and a B-l Companion Trainer Program Chief. He served as a

This group has eagerly accepted the

T-38 evaluator for the selection of the

challenge of standardizing operations, adopting best practices and increasing

B-2 initial cadre and helped organize the

communications with the field.

3. A new Diversity Advisory Panel (in

B-2/T-38 Companion Trainer Program.

He deployed and flew multiple missions as

part of Operation Allied Force, the air He deployed and com-

order to effectively and compre-

war over Kosovo.

hensively address many challenges regarding how we command, control, and comprehensively execute our diversity missions). This newly

manded a total force squadron as part of

Operation Iraqi Freedom and supported air operations in that theater as well. Ad-

Coordinators and are specifically fo-

ditionally, Cleaves has held a variety of staff positions at the wing, numbered Air Force, Headquarters U.S. Air Force and Headquarters Joint Staff. These include positions as an Air Staff air and space strategist in Checkmate and as an Information Operations Division Chief on the Joint Staff. He completed IDE at Maxwell

cused on ensuring that young people

AFB’s Air Command and Staff College,

from diverse backgrounds across the

and SDE in Norfolk, Va., as part of Na-

formed group will address numerous

issues affecting diversity and

will also act as a board of directors,

ensuring that we stay focused on this important mission area. Eighty six ALOs also serve as Diversity Affairs

nation understand the opportunities

tional Defense University’s first class of the

available at the Academy.”

Joint Advanced Warfighting School. B

719 635-0200 -

BESTCATERER.NET CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

50 years later

...

Still expecting great things

BY KYLE DAVIDSON FIFTY YEARS AGO, I HAD TO RAKE OUR ACRE YARD WITH A FORK, EVERY WEEKEND. I HAD

TO WALK 10 MILES TO SCHOOL ONE WAY AND 20 THE OTHER, ALL UPHILL; I HAD TO STUDY

FOR 8 HOURS AFTER SCHOOL, HELP WITH THE

DISHES, WASH THE CAR, WALK THE DOG AND TAKE THE TRASH OUT; AND I HAD TO DO IT ALL WITH A SMILE ON MY FACE.

FORGET THE FACT THAT I WASN’T EVEN BORN YET, THINGS WERE TOUGHER BACK

Perhaps the above is a bit cliche, but there is a sense the older generation feels the world-our country in particular-has gone to hell in a hand-basket and that our youth have no respect or and are weak. But as a discipline, group of’59ers recently learned after spending an evening with members of the current graduating class, perhaps many of these attributions are unjustified.

To capture the significance of the 50th graduating class, the AOG hosted a roundtable dialogue between five local ’59 grads and five firstclass cadets due to graduate this May. The objective was to reminisce, compare and contrast experiences, and to pass on career advice.

Much has changed in our world and society in the past 50 years. Governments have changed, fashions have changed, economics have changed and some human values have changed.

As such, it’s no surprise the Air Force Academy has changed.

THEN. WE RESPECTED OUR ELDERS, KEPT OUR-

There are additional academic majors offered, the cadet popula-

SELVES PRESENTABLE AND DID WHAT WE WERE

tion is more diverse and many more non-military extra-curricular

TOLD. WE KNEW WHAT WAS EXPECTED OF US AND WE DELIVERED!

opportunities are available. Next year marks the golden anniversary of the Academy’s first graduating class, and while a Saturday afternoon ice cream cone is no longer the pinnacle of a week of daunting physical and mental anguish, the Academy hasn’t altered as

12

much as some might think.

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

“We were told on our opening day that our country expects a lot of us,” remarked retired major general Pete Todd, ’59, addressour Acading the ’08 cadets. “We were all lucky to have had emy experience, which in many ways is quite different from yours, ...

but I expect the fundamentals are pretty much the same.”

The discussion began with the salty veterans telling how it was in their day. Even for the rigid standards of the ’50s, the Academy

atmosphere was an abrupt adjustment.

“I was a kid from the wrong side of the tracks in Northeast Wash-

ington, D.C., being raised by my mother who was a single parent,” began Todd. “I was really more aimless than most 16, 17 year-old kids were. I had no clue what I wanted to do.” He added that a high school briefing he really had no interest in other than it got him out of a history class set the foundation for changing his life.

“I had no prospects,” Todd continued, “no money, there was

opportunity that I was going to go to college, and here was an opportunity to go to a place where they pay you to go, the educano

“There was shock value and then tie it to a schedule that gave you

It was made to order.”

21 hours off base your first year ...” recalled Dr. Brock Strom, ’59, who was captain of the 1958 undefeated Air Force football team,

tion is free

and a 1985 inductee into the College Football Hall of Fame.

tion was to get his degree and serve his minimum tour, then get

“Total,” over-lappingly interjected retired colonels and fellow ’59ers Charles Meier and Don Brooks, laughingly.

“We all think the reason they didn’t let us go home is because

they thought we wouldn’t come back,” joked Todd. “And they probably right.”

Yet through the course of conversation, the group found that their reasons for coming to the Air Force academy were not that different.

Both generations were influenced by a desire to serve, a chance at a quality education and the possibility of a better life.

were

...

Much like many of the ’59ers admitted, Todd’s original intenout and

fly for the airline industries. But something happened

here that changed him.

“I may not have been a career motivationalist but I began to

look at the people that I was going to school with, people who were

my mentors, who were guiding me and shaping me, and I

said, ‘I could do this for life.”

Others were encouraged by family members to attend.

“I have four brothers in the Army, and they all told me to go into the Air Force

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

...

I had a brother who went to West Point and

13

he was like, ‘definitely do not go here,’ joked ClC Jake Devlin, a

added Meier. “Back in our era, the standards in society were pretty

Social Sciences major from Cadet Squadron-38. He added he also

rigid

...

So when you came here and it was [more] rigid here, you

experienced “My mindset drastically changed,” recalled Devlin. “I mean, I hated every day of my freshman and sophomore year. I wanted to

had that delta factor between us. And so today, I’m sure you guys

leave. Then my junior year it just kind of hit me, like, these are awe-

I am impressed with the academics here probably constant now. I do not think that I could make it definitely through this in the now. At the time I was here I 90th percenplace graduated the upper 90 percent of the class but I am impressed tile with the quality of the education of the cadets coming through here now. Militarily, I’m not so sure.”

Another area of concern the coronating class expressed was with how their legacy of the Honor Code has been reinterpreted over

a

similar change in thinking as the retired general.

like-minded, we get stuff done, I mean I was so

people, impressed with some of my friends were

some

community service, 3.8 GPAs

...

...

All-American athletes doing

Then you go back home and your

friends are still smoking dope and like, doing nothing with their lives and you’re just like, wow, I want to go back there where people are

getting after life, getting out there and being successful.”

Of course, every graduate versed in their Academy history knows that the first graduating class was not trained by upperclassmen but Air Training Officers brought in from the Air Force.

are

in the same boat where it’s tough here compared to our society

outside, and I would not be surprised if that delta factor remains ...

...

...

the years.

“You know, our class has done a lot of things,” said Todd. “We are

noted for having selected the falcon as the mascot

demerits or tours, from misaligned shoes to improper shaves. Yet

we

really did do was institute the Honor Code and we’re identified

it was through these rigid experiences that they bonded with one

probably more than any other class, not just because we were the

another, began

to

embody

a

mentality of leadership and took

ownership of training the underclassmen to the same standards to which they were held; a point which the current cadets countered is still the case even if the focus has shifted from strict rigidity to a more

...

first ones to sign on and make that our very own [...] but we’ve got a few classmates who are really, let me say, incensed at how the administration of the code has drifted away from the very

tough, rigid standards that we had.” The general admitted he was somewhere more in the middle. He pressed the cadets for their

personal responsibility approach.

people acting more like adults and more like mature and they’re the other are seeing way people acting.”

perspective on how the code is being handled.

ClC Connor Caples, a Physics and Mathematics major of CS35, and Boogar are honor officers for their squadron and urged that the system is fickle. There are numerous instances were the right decisions are made based on the cadet’s tenure and stature along with severity of the infraction, but then there are instances where grievous mistakes are made but the cadet is still allowed to stay.

“It’s a system that doesn’t involve only cadets anymore,” explained Caples. “I don’t know if it did when you guys were

“When you relate the standards here with the standards in our

cadets, but now it involves cadets and a permanent party kind of

“I think you see with the advent of social networking sites and

just the more free-flow of technology information, you’re seeing cadets not being tucked away; we’re not tucked against the Rock-

ies; we’re not separated from the rest of the world,” said ClC Steve Boogar, a Management major of Cadet Squadron-36, in contrast to the seclusion

going

the ’59 grads felt. “Going forward, you’re

to see

individuals because they’re part of the world still

...

outside society, the delta factor is probably just about the same,”

umbrella over it.”

To capture the significance of 2008

being the Academy’s 50th graduating class, the AOG hosted a roundtable discussion between five graduating cadets and five local members of the

first graduating class of 1959. Left to right are retired Col. Charles Meier,

retired Maj. Gen. Pete Todd, ClC Connor Caples, retired Col. Don Brooks,

ClC Jake Devlin, ClC Andrea Bush, Dr. Curtis Cook, ClC Aaron Baney, ClC Steve Boogar and Dr. Brock Strom.

14

but what

The older grads recalled how every little thing used to get them

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

“It’s a far more legalistic system right now,” added Boogar.

“Where a lot of things seemed black and white, open and shut in our

day, I think some of the issues these days don’t lend themselves to

such a sharp contrast between what is honest and what is not honest,”

added ’59 grad Dr. Curtis Cook in support of a possible reason for the change. Cook also spent part of his career in higher education as a professor at Colorado College and added that he is still so impressed with the quality of people the Academy produces.

“I think the cadets are great,” said Cook. “They’re going on and doing great things after they graduate. I think, time after time, they’re validating the whole idea of the Academy.”

But just because the handling of honor violations is no longer a black and white, cadet-controlled system, the soon-to-be grads assured the veterans that Honor is just as important to the cadet

wing as it ever was.

ClC Aaron Baney, a Civil Engineering major of CS-38 explained, “I think overall, the Honor Code is on our minds all the time

...

not

that we’re questioning whether or not I should steal something, but it’s

Need help

finding a job?

always there. We know it’s there and it’s definitely shaped everyone in our

class, but I think the difference is, like you guys said, we don’t feel

like we own it as much as you guys probably did.”

But the older grads have noticed a different sort of ownership

Looking to

among the graduating class.

You guys have seemed to have taken ownership of your leader-

advance your career?

ship responsibilities,” commented Todd. “That’s your reputation by the way; that’s the way John Regni thinks of you. So you’ve done well. You’ve earned everybody’s respect,” But after four vigorous years here, each cadet said they were definitely ready for life in the Air Force.

“We’re counting down days, just like you guys did, I’m sure,” lamented Baney.

“You guys are coming up on your greatest demotion that you’ll face in your whole life,” joked Brooks but with an air of seriousness about the transition from being the top of the Academy rung to a lowly second lieutenant.

The career veterans also advised the young cadets to be ready for facing a different environment and mentality in the Air Force.

“We all faced it at one time, or many times, throughout our careers, this lack of integrity that you will run into in some of the people that you’ll be dealing with and working for in the Air Force,” coached Meier. “And the pressures will be there. You just got to make your mind up, ‘what am I going to do?”

General Todd added he was excited to see what the future held

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“There isn’t one of us in this room who wouldn’t trade places

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with you, no matter what our experiences, our wealth, our

prestige, our rank, whatever,” encouraged Todd. “In a heartbeat, we’d trade you, sight unseen, because you guys have got an

opportunity to shape history. Unfortunately, you’re going to be You’ve been lives, that’s my prediction You found out you can do never challenged. things you thought at war for all of your

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yourself and find out that you had something left, and that my friends is a bracing experience ...Your country is depending on you. Go forth and make us proud.”

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BACK TO IRAQ AFA grad takes 911 calls to new level

Captain handles emergency transmissions from troops or radio checks, all while flying over Iraq in a C-130

F

lying in slow circles four miles above Baghdad in the back of a four-engine C-130, the Air Force Academy’s Capt. Linda Thorstenson waits for a call.

It could be from a convoy under attack, or just someone checking a radio. She’s their security blanket, ensuring that when they pick up their radios, someone will hear them on the other end.

“We’re 911 operators at 20,000 feet,” said Thorstenson, who teaches cadets the basics of flying in Colorado Springs and helps coach the

academy’s gymnastics team.

“We’re there if they need us.”

By Tom Roeder, The Gazette

Photo by Justin Pyle

■

“I told them, ‘It’s going to be you some-

Thorstenson’s job at Balad Air Base, north

radio signals, which the Army and other mili-

day, and with what you’ll learn in four years at the academy, you’ll be ready when it

tary units use to communicate on the ground in Iraq. The signals usually work well, but

comes,”’ she said.

At Balad, Thorstenson and other airmen

distance, terrain and even the buildings of a

live in trailers converted to barracks rooms

city can block communications, leaving units

like the accommodations given their Army

isolated and out of touch with the people who

comrades. It’s safer here than it once was, but

help in an emergency. That’s where the Air

alarms sounded several times Tuesday to warn

of Baghdad, grew from the physics of FM

can

Force comes in on one of dozens of new roles

of mortar attack.

for the service created to help in Iraq. and can listen in on the convoys. If someone

She volunteered to take the job as assistant operations director of Joint Air Battle Staff, a unit at Balad that includes Army and Navy

can’t reach headquarters, crews in the back of

service members.

Thorstenson’s C-130s fly well above the city

the plane can relay the message.

Much of her work centers on keeping the

For Army units, the Air Force assistance can

radio crews trained and making sure the unit’s

bring extra firepower from fighters or send medical evacuation choppers to soldiers who

paperwork is straight.

would otherwise be alone in battle.

cargo hold of a C-130 for a long day of listen-

It’s more than just theory for Thorstenson, whose husband, stenson

Capt. Craig Thor-

of Peterson Air Force Base, is an

electronics expert assigned to help the Army here and at any time could be rolling in one

of those convoys.

“I obviously have a very personal interest in making sure we catch all the calls,” she said Wednesday. “Not just for my husband, but for all the people on the ground.”

But about twice a week she climbs into the

ing to radios.

Most days are quiet for the crews as they listen to the chatter from the units on the

ground during flights that last hours.

“There are days when you wonder if you’re really helping out,” she said.

The radio crews in the sky jump into action when frantic calls for help come in.

If a unit in trouble doesn’t get a response from their Army headquarters, Thorstenson

The Thorstensons are among thousands of airmen in Iraq. Some fill familiar jobs, such as

steps in, walking soldiers through the basics of what they need and relaying the 911 -like call

dropping bombs in close air support missions,

to

those on the ground who can give aid.

and running passengers and cargo around the

“When things go wrong, we make sure we

country, while others have relatively new roles such as manning machine guns, escorting

stay calm,” she said.

She’s sometimes approached by the soldiers

convoys and helping the Army counter radio-

who have been helped out through the

controlled bombs.

airborne radio connection. Their gratitude is

“It’s behind the scenes, and that is com-

pletely OK as long as we are there when we are needed,” the captain, a 2000 Air Force Academy graduate, said of her work.

Thorstenson, a Dillon, S.C., native, has flown over Iraq at the controls of a KC-135

deep, but Thorstenson tells them she was just doing her job.

She’s scheduled to return next month to the

academy, where she plans to pass her war experience on to the next generation of officers.

“I’m going to be able to take this experi-

right back to them,” Thorstenson said.

tanker that fueled fighters and bombers early

ence

in the war. At the academy, she flies T-41

“I’ll be able to give them a fresh look at what

Cessna trainers used to give cadets their intro-

it’s like.”

H

duction to powered flight. She said the cadets were

surprised that their teacher was going

back into combat.

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

19

BY

MARK

CLODFELTER,

’77

PHOTOS

BY

KEN

WRIGHT

I

HHHBW

Matching mountains and fulfilling missions: One grad’s assessment of USAFA’s true value Part I of II Mark Clodfelter, ’77, a professor ofmilitary strategy at the

National War College, recently spoke to more than 500 members

of the Class of2010 about a survey he conducted on the value of the Class of1977’s Academy experience. The results are insightful and entertaining. The following is a transcript ofhis speech. begin by saying that there are a multitude of thoughts swirling around in my head right now—and I’ll elaborate on them in just a minute. Yet I’m guessing that for most of you sitting in Arnold Hall, you’ve probably got only one thought on your mind, and it goes something like this: “Is this guy on stage going to say anything worthwhile, because I’ve got a lot of other stuff that I could be doing right now?” Yes, I still remember what it was like to sit in this building, some 30 years ago, listening to a guest speaker drone on while knowing that if I didn’t get my butt back to the dorm to study for a Mech GRI had the next day, I was a dead man.

But those thoughts, indeed, were 30-odd years ago—and the fact that they were, is one of the notions now swirling around in my must

I

head. This year marks my thirtieth class reunion, and I can assure

L

you that 30 years ago I never thought that 1 would be giving the Harmon Memorial Lecture at the Air Force Academy. Thirty years

ago I rarely thought farther ahead than the next weekend, much

less what I’d be doing several years down the road. And rarely—if ever—did I think about what the value of the Academy experience

might be to my subsequent “career development”—I wasn’t even going to have a career, especially a career as an Air Force

sure I was

officer. The passage of time, however, tends to make you reflective.

And 30 years is a significant chunk of time in most peoples lives.

It’s also a nice “round” figure. As my father-in-law pointed out, we Americans tend to focus on those anniversaries ending in “zero,” such as a

tenth reunion or a fortieth birthday. My father-in-law is David

Maclsaac—who was one of my instructors here when I was a cadet, and who also presented the Harmon Memorial Lecture, in 1987—20 years ago this year—and that’s another thought that’s swirling around in my head. In his lecture, he noted that in August 1907—now 100 years ago—the Army’s Signal Corps created its Aeronautical Division, and that division ultimately evolved into the United States Air Force in

September 1947—which for us today is an even 60 years ago. He also

said that what transpired during those first 40 “formative” years laid the groundwork for the “modern” Air Force, and that the people who

played a significant role in the creation of the new service—men such as Hap Arnold, Carl Spaatz, and Ira Eaker—were profoundly affected by what they did as junior officers. Thus, in his lecture, he chose to examine the early careers of Arnold, Spaatz, and Eaker, and he offered this quote from historian Russell Weigley as justification for that focus: What we believe and what we do today is governed at least as much by the habits of mind we formed in the relatively remote past as by what we did and thought [only] yesterday. The relatively remote past is apt to constrain our thought and actions more, because we understand it less well than we do our recent past, or at least recall it less clearly, and it has cut deeper grooves of custom in our minds.

I agree with Weigley s assertion regarding the impact of “the relatively remote past,” and I’d like to use it as a focal point in my remarks to you tonight. Like my father-in-law, I aim to test it by going back in time, but my focus on the past is going to be a bit different than his.

First of all, I’m going to restrict my examination to only a four-year span in the lives of a particular group of young people—the four years spent as an Air Force Academy cadet. Secondly, I’m going to focus on the group of cadets that I know best—the members of the Class of 1977. My goal is to determine if the Air Force Academy succeeded in accomplishing its mission for my class—and, by implication, for other classes that the Academy has produced. My tentative answer is “yes”; however, the “yes” requires a bit of explanation because, as with many aspects of the Academy experience, there are a fair amount of “buts” involved (please pardon the pun).

Determining whether the Academy fulfilled its mission first requires a definition of it. I’ll provide that by citing the greatest source for Academy “knowledge” known to exist: Contrails. Here’s

how ’77’s version defined it: “The mission of the Air Force Academy is to provide instruction and experience to each cadet so that

he graduates with the knowledge and character essential to leader-

ship and the motivation to become a career officer in the United States Air Force.” It seems straightforward, doesn’t it? And yet, I wonder about its validity as the Academy’s driving goal. How do you determine success or failure? The Air Force has often resorted to quantification to evaluate the effectiveness of many activities— to

include the use of air power—and that approach is one way to

evaluate USAFA. The stated mission emphasizes the production

of superb leaders who become career officers, and those elements

provide ready data points. Focusing on the “leadership” aspect of the mission yields a percentage of the Air Force’s general officers who are Academy grads. Focusing on the “career” aspect reveals how long the typical Academy graduate stays on active duty compared to officers produced by ROTC or Officer Training School.

The Air Force does indeed highlight both of those factors.

The service’s personnel center notes that 150 of the Air Force’s 290 general officers currently on active duty—52 percent—are Academy graduates. From the year 1977, 2.1 percent of USAFA’s graduates with Air Force commissions became generals, compared to 0.5 percent of ROTC graduates and 0.3 percent from OTS. Over time, though, an Air Force officer’s commissioning source has not proved a significant determinant of whether the officer will make general. Data from 1980-2002 show that specific career fields and particular job assignments provide greater indicators of

making general, with pilots having the highest probability, and jobs such as a general’s aide producing a large boost to one’s own chances of wearing stars. In terms of retention, USAFA’s Class of ’77 compared favorably to its ROTC and OTS counterparts, with 37 percent of its graduates still on active duty at the 20-year point, compared to 32 percent of 1977 ROTC graduates and 20 percent of those from OTS. For the first seven years of the span 1980-

2002, the retention rate of USAFA graduates easily surpassed that of ROTC and OTS grads; but from 1987-2002 the Academy’s retention advantage slipped considerably, and in several years

during that period both ROTC and OTS graduates had a higher retention percentage than Academy grads.

Officer retention would not, however, have appeared at the top of Billy Mitchell’s list for evaluating Academy success. For Mitchell and those who followed closely in his footsteps, the vision of an “Air Academy” was an institution that produced aeronautical engineers and pilots. Mitchell saw West Point as “largely a waste of time” for airmen who had different concerns from their counterparts on the

ground. Indeed, I still recall hearing as a cadet that the real mission of the Air Force was “to fly and fight,” and the cadets in ’77 received extensive encouragement to become pilots. Undergraduate pilot training—UPT—became the great goal for many, and I well remember the battle cry of “2.0 and Go!” as a warped justification of why we should not take academics too seriously. Until 1992, USAFA had unlimited UPT slots for medically qualified candidates who had the requisite 2.0 cumulative GPA at graduation. Since then, the Academy has received a quota of UPT slots each year—the same number provided to ROTC graduates. Yet to the chagrin of Billy Mitchell—and perhaps to others sitting in Arnold Hall tonight—West Point was the model chosen for the Air Force Academy, and an emphasis on flying did not appear in the Academy’s mission statement. The desire from Hubert Harmon, Dwight Eisenhower, and others instrumental in creating USAFA in the aftermath of World War II was an Academy that produced the key leadership core of Air Force officers, much like West Point did for the Army, through a broad-based educational program that stressed not only academics but also military training and athletics.

Still, an officer’s aeronautical rating trumps the commissioning source in determining the officer’s likelihood of becoming a general. If the Academy experience and its current $312,000/copy price tag does not guarantee more generals—as well as more officers

who make the service a career—what, then, is the true value

of this institution? To answer that question I thought that I’d take the “standard” Air Force approach—and gather more data.

This time, I thought that I’d go right to the source for data collection—to the graduates of USAFA. Furthermore, I thought that I’d rely on the data source that I knew best, given that I am a part of it—the Class of 1977, whose graduates are now 30 years removed from the day that we threw our hats into the air and are

officially old. Hopefully, though, we’re not completely out of

touch with reality, and the thoughts that we have about USAFA and its value to our lives might be useful to you guys who one

day—believe it or not—will be gray-haired jokers like us, coming back for football games and reunions, discussing your medical conditions, and talking about how your children are now flying the latest mach-10 fighters that operate on solar power—or perhaps about how they’re flying the same B-52s that your grandfa-

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

21

USAFA classes are distinctive in some ways, so too were we. We were

the first class not to have mandatory chapel attendance on Sundays; we were

the first to receive only 30 days of graduation leave rather than

the previously granted 60; we were the first to lose the GI Bill benefits

given to previous classes; we were the first to enter the Academy after Americas war in Vietnam had ended; and we were “Firsties” when women

cadets first arrived at the Academy in the summer of 1976. Of

the 121 grads completing the survey, 69 percent were pilots, 9 percent were

navigators, 21 percent were non-rated or members of another

service, and 2 percent were lawyers or doctors. These numbers parallel the overall percentages for the Class of 1977: 63 percent were pilots; 8 percent were navigators; 28 percent were non-rated Air Force officers or members of another service; and 1 percent were flight surgeons.

Thirty-five of the 121 had service in either the Guard or Reserves after leaving active duty.

While the bulk of responses reflected favorably on the Academy experience, many also revealed a contradiction in feelings about the value of the institution. For instance, in response to the question— “What impact do you think that the Academy had on the collective perspective of your classmates at graduation?”—60 percent of those completing the survey answered, “Most of my classmates were inclined to see issues as ‘shades of gray rather than in absolute terms by the time they graduated,” while 34 percent said the opposite—“most of

my classmates were inclined to see issues as ‘black and white’ absolutes by the time they graduated.” When asked, “Flow do you think that

the collective mindset of your classmates evolved during the fouryear Academy experience?” 44 percent answered that “as a group, my classmates became more conservative in their thinking,” 11 percent

said they became more liberal, and 45 percent said they could not be

classified “as either more conservative or more liberal.” The writein response of one classmate perhaps best sums up the conflicting

data: “Perhaps you could describe ‘us’ as rigorous liberal thinkers and enthusiastic conservative actors.” Another expressed surprise at such thers flew

...

Thus, you might think of what we have to say to you,

collectively, as a “preview of coming attractions”!

My data come from an Internet survey that I designed—with lots of help —and that many of my classmates completed this past spring. Through the generous assistance of the Academy’s Association of Graduates, which sent survey links to the 435 of us who are

AOG members, I received 121 responses, a return rate of almost 28

percent, to 40 questions dealing with the perceived importance of the Academy experience. I requested anonymous responses, though some

of my classmates chose to sign their names. Most provided

“write-in” responses in addition to answering multiple-choice ques-

tions, and many of those responses were detailed—and quite revealing. In reading through them, I had to wonder just how “clueful” I

over 21

and still a liberal, you have no brain!”

The disparity of responses continued when my classmates were

asked why they attended the Academy. The top answer would have made Billy Mitchell smile—44 percent of my classmates said, “The desire to pursue a flying career,” almost double the 24 percent who listed the mission-oriented goal of becoming “a career Air Force

had been during my four years here—a trend that my wife would

officer” as their top choice. The “desire to receive a superb, ‘cost-free’

say has continued for 30 years after graduation.

college education garnered the third highest number of votes, with 20 percent of my classmates selecting it. While almost 90 percent of the surveyed grads agreed that the Academy changed the way that they thought and their views of the world, with about 58 percent saying that it significantly expanded their intellectual horizons and 36 percent saying that it gave them more insights about the world at large, disagreement was widespread about what aspects of the Academy experience were responsible for their expanded horizons. Somewhat surprisingly, perhaps, for “Just Passin’ Through,” the top-rated choice

Before sharing the responses, let me give you some brief background on my class and those members of it who completed the survey. We graduated 867 out of 1461 who arrived as basic cadets, with 851 receiving Air Force commissions. Eighteen remain on active duty as Air Force generals—and given that we are now all past the 30-year point, the only ones who can still be on active duty are indeed general officers. Twenty-one died while on active duty, and, though none were killed in combat, a majority of them died in aircraft accidents. As all

22

questions for the class that had as its unofficial motto, “Just Passin’

Through” (we tried to get “JPT” engraved on the outside of our class rings and nearly succeeded), noting that the mindset was “liberal inside the framework of an organization that bombed people for a living, [and] so it had its limitations.” Many contended that the military is naturally more conservative, and one who did added this quote from Churchill: “If you’re 21 and not a liberal, you have no heart. If you’re

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

percent; the “military training program” was third at 18 percent; “the views of faculty and staff” fourth at 14 percent; and “participation in

ship skills. Ninety-two percent said that it had a positive effect, with 57 percent observing that it had a “significant” positive effect, and 35 percent saying that the effect was positive but less dramatic. Of course, learning to be a good leader often means learning what examples

athletics” was filth at 5 percent. The remaining 8 percent of my class-

not to follow. See if any of these write-in comments resonate:

was

the academic curriculum, selected by 35 percent of the survey

group. The “views of classmates and other cadets” was second at 20

mates said that the

Academy failed to expand their world view.

Disparate responses continued for questions about how organized religious activities and the arrival of women cadets affected the Academy experience. Thirty-three percent of my classmates commented that religious activities had a significant impact on their cadet life, while 28 percent said that they had no impact, and 37 percent said that they had some impact. Regarding the admission of women, 59 percent of my classmates believed at the time that it was the right

thing

to

do, while 41 percent did not. Those attitudes have changed

“At the

Academy I did see many examples of behavior I vowed never to allow myself to repeat”; “the experience I had with my Air Officer Commanding taught me exactly how not to be;” “I learned just as much about what not to do as a leader.”

Such responses indicate that the Class of ’77 did not always think about USAFA fondly. When asked to relate their dominant memories of the Academy, and given several possible response

options, 68 percent answered, “Pride tempered by memories of hard times,” while 16 percent said “excitement and enthusiasm.”

bit in 30 years. Only 2 percent of my classmates who originally

One grad remarked: “It was a struggle, but I’m glad I graduated,”

thought that women should have been admitted now think that it

which likely sums up the feelings that many of us had. Questions

a

was a

mistake to do so, while 61 percent of those who thought it was

wrong for women to be here 30 years ago now think that they should

be part of the cadet wing. Still, many ’77 grads remain conflicted on whether women should attend USAFA. When asked if they would be pleased if they had a daughter or niece who attended the Academy, 77 percent said yes, 15 percent said no, and 8 percent said that

they were not sure. At least one graduate revealed that his answer was not gender-specific with this write-in response: “If they could get in I would be proud, but I would not necessarily want them to go there—that goes for sons and nephews, too.”

Despite the disagreement that the survey revealed, it also showed quite a bit of consensus regarding the Academy experience and its subsequent value. When asked how attending USAFA affected career development, 96 percent of my classmates thought that their Academy time improved their career prospects, regardless of whether they made the Air Force a career. Fifty-five percent of my classmates said that USAFA was invaluable to the success that they have had, and 41 percent noted it was, in general, a positive contribution. Almost half of my classmates said that the Academy had a significant posifive effect on the development of their personal standards; 39 percent acknowledged that USAFA had elevated their standards to some extent. Nine percent said that their standards were set prior to arriving at the Academy. “I came in with high standards,’ one of my classmates wrote,” but I left knowing specifically what I believe, and why I believe it. I may have been completely different had I attended a normal” university.”

No argument here... Many of my classmates pointed to the Honor Code as a key factor in shaping their personal standards. Twenty-three percent

regarding our fondest, and most negative, memories of USAFA amplify this view. These questions did not have multiple-choice responses—all of the answers were “write-ins,” and thus matching answers here have perhaps a greater significance than elsewhere in the survey. For 26 percent of my classmates, their fondest memories of the Academy were shared experiences with other

cadets. “Time spent with good friends,” “camaraderie,” and “spirit missions” typified these responses, and many classmates placed an

emphasis on bonding with “adversity” lurking in the background.

The second-highest response reflected that mindset, but did so

directly: 18 percent listed “graduation” as their fondest memory, which one individual phrased as “surviving to graduate.”

Participation in airmanship programs ranked third in terms of fondest memories, written in by 10 percent of the respondents.

One classmate typed simply, “I am not being sarcastic here. I don’t have any fond memories”—but all the rest found something posimore

tive to say about their four years at USAFA.

Not that they were unable to find anything derogatory to

say—comments abounded regarding the most negative Academy memories. Once again, I added together similar write-in responses, and once more found three dominant answers. Basic

Cadet Training and the Fourth Class year topped the list, but by

only a small margin, with 15 percent of my classmates mentioning aspect of the “doolie” experience. “Being written up, chewed

some

remarked that it was “the dominant element that caused cadets to act with

integrity,” while 73 percent said that “it reinforced notions of honor that most cadets

already possessed.” Only

4 percent said that it was “ineffective in establishing a sense of integrity that shaped cadet behavior.” My classmates also believed that the Academy played a substantial role in molding their leader

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

23

marching tours, or serving confinements” was a close second,

with 14 percent of my classmates providing that response, one

(SERE) program administered at the Academy for the Class of ’77 and which was then a graduation requirement for all cadets, and USAFA’s

of whom noted that he had marched more than 200 tours. Next

athletic programs. Yet one of my classmates also said that he would

out,

was

“loneliness and the Dark Ages,” which garnered votes from 8

percent. Three different categories tied for fourth with 5 percent each, including: a perceived misuse of the Honor Code to enforce

regulations, “jerk instructors,” and “jerk AOCs,” with three of the latter zapped for sniffing underwear in laundry bins to guarantee that cadets were not placing clean, unfolded clothes in them.

Two other questions that had “write-in only” responses—no multiple choice questions to select from—provided revealing insights about the perceived value of the institution. When asked what part of the Academy experience for the Class of 1977 should be retained at all costs, the leading response from my classmates (19 percent) was the high degree of emphasis placed on teamwork, bonding, and esprit de corps. Despite the negative memories produced by Basic Cadet Training and the Fourth Class system, 12 percent of my classmates said those programs should endure at USAFA, and indeed, they received the second highest number of votes for retention. One grad highlighted the confidence that came from completing the Fourth Class year: “I learned to work with others under pressure. Even if

retain everything about the Academy experience, or, as he put it, “The whole enchilada—nothing less. If you shrink parts of the Academy,”

he insisted, “you slip back to a civilian institution.”

That perspective resonated when my classmates were asked what part of their Academy experience they would change

instantly if empowered to do so. The answers given here were more disparate than those provided about what to retain, perhaps indicating that the choice of what to discard was more difficult than the choice of what to keep. Nonetheless, a few dominant responses did emerge, and at the top of the list was the desire by 13 percent to eliminate elements of negative motivation such as tours, doolie hazing at meals, etc. Next, though, 11 percent of my classmates said that they would change nothing. One grad summed up his rationale this way: “I believe that AFA was my life

shaping event. Once you change history, you change outcomes and I do not want that. So, I think I learned from the good, the bad and the ugly parts. I would not change a thing; they all have H

gone into who I am.”

the situation seems tough, I know I can work my way through it.”

Third on the list was the Honor Code, mentioned by 11 percent. Two

facets tied for fourth: a broad academic curriculum, and airmanship

Editor’s Note: Because it would be expensive to publish the extensive

programs, with each receiving 7 percent of the vote. Two also tied for sixth with 6 percent: the Survival, Escape, Resistance, and Evasion

notes

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Preparing Officers of Character to Serve in Air, Space, and Cyberspace

BY DEAN OF FACULTY BRIG. GEN. DANA BORN, ’83

S

ecretary of the Air Force, The Honorable Michael W. Wynne and our

Chief of Staff, Gen T. Michael

Moseley, have articulated a new and expanded mission for the United States Air Force. “The Air Force exists to fly, fight and win—to achieve strategic, operational and tactical objectives—unhindered by time, distance or geography. The Air Force’s mission is to ‘deliver sovereign options for the

that their efforts succeeded and USAFA

graduates have served the nation with cour-

in numerous ways. The education we

provide to the leaders of tomorrow’s Air

age and distinction for almost 50 years.

Much has changed since then. Faced by a

Force supports our USAF mission both

21st century world of daunting and increas-

directly and indirectly.

Over the last decade, the Academy has

ing complexity, marked by the threats of terrorism, economic globalization, competition

worked hard to keep the study of air, space,

for scarce resources, climate variation, and

and cyberspace power current to help

rapid technological change, contemporary

fulfill the evolving Air Force mission. The

Air Force officers must become intellectu-

defense of the United States of America and

challenges are apparent. When USAFA was

its global interests—to fly and fight in Air,

founded in the mid-1950s, the Air Force’s

As the Nation’s Space, and Cyberspace.’ premier global, multi-dimensional maneu-

senior leadership insisted that its faculty

ally adept in areas much broader than their predecessors of just a few years ago. Reinforcing warrior skills in subjects which range from history, language, culture, and regional expertise to mathematics, science, engineering, artificial intelligence, and air and space operations is truly challenging.

...

consist of substantial numbers of aviators

force, the Air Force safeguards America

and that its balanced curriculum focus on

by dominating the ultimate vantage of air, space and cyberspace.”

the needs of the national security environ-

ver

26

Your United States Air Force Academy is proud to contribute to that mission

ment as then understood.

It’s fair to say

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

The Chief of Staff recently voiced his concerns

serves as a

regarding the general state of

stance as we continue

knowledge of our Air Force’s heritage, and pointed out how that knowledge empowers all airmen to articulate what the Air Force the joint arena. The

uniquely brings multiple demands on cadets and the complex requirements of modern education too to

great example of USAFA’s forward

often combine to restrict time available for

looking technological to meet the challenges of being the world’s

greatest air and space force. Key to this keen

technological insight into our service’s future and needs is the real-world, funded research

ment Center on the

propulsion front to

investigate how inlet design affects turbofan

performance. Using an actual jet engine test bed, cadets are determining how operability is affected by new, exotic inlets that greatly distort the flow entering the engine. Looking

and design efforts conducted by each cadet in

even

the Aeronautics major.

and physics major cadets are investigating

The cornerstone to DFAN’s leading-edge,

further into the future, aeronautics

various aero-optic concepts in hopes to

serious professional study. But the impera-

cadet-based research efforts is the Aeronau-

improve airborne laser performance as the

tives of commissioning leaders of charac-

tics Research and Modeling and Simulation

beam encounters ill-behaved airflow near the

for the future compel our continued

Centers located in the aeronautics labora-

aircraft surface which may lead to a much

attention. Simply put, there is an absolute

tory. This world-class facility houses seven

more

requirement for all USAFA graduates to

major wind tunnel and propulsion test

become “air-minded” and “advocates of air

facilities which make up the Aeronautics

hands-on experimental research is the

space and cyberspace power” whatever their

Research Center, as well as an extensive array

eventual career fields.

of networked high performance comput-

AIR

ing systems in the laboratory and across the nation which comprise the Modeling

USAFA’s core curriculum serves as the

and Simulation Center. These facilities

computational research conducted in the Modeling and Simulation Research Center.

Working in teams, full-time researchers collaborate with faculty and cadets to leverage state-of-the-art, high-performance compu-

bedrock for this knowledge and essential

and a strong concentration on small teams

tational resources to conduct research. The

example, during the past five years, our core military history course,

working closely with a seasoned researcher

“Modern Warfare and Society,” has featured

of government, industry, and academic

marriage of computational fluid dynamics studies with experimental results has greatly expanded the array of capabilities offered to

three major lectures on the development of

organizations to support current and future weapon system development. By involving cadets in every project, we provide them with real-world engineering problems that simultaneously support broader Air Force

ter

outcome. For

airpower: First Air War, airpower in World War One ; the Combined Bomber Offensive

,

airpower during World War Two; and the Vietnam Air War. These offerings have high-

allows DFAN to partner with a number

efficient airborne laser.

Providing a perfect counterbalance to

DoD and other customers while, at the same

time, significantly enhancing our cadets’ educational experience. These cross-disci-

pline research teams provide unique solutions and conduct world-class research to

lighted the evolution of Americas air arm and

needs. Below are a few current “real-world”

meet

its contributions to fighting three major wars.

examples of experimental, computational, and aircraft design efforts by cadets that are making a “real-world” difference.

Few current AF configurations are older than the venerable KC-135, but rising fuel costs and increasing mission requirements demand we consider modifying these legacy

DFAN’s current number two national

More than 6,000 cadets have been instructed

and inspired over that period.

Recognizing the need for further enhancement, the Department of Ffistory (DFH) has recently broadened the scope of USAFA’s only air power history course, “Airpower and Modern Warfare.” This expansion of the study of airpower history will not only allow a more detailed understanding and analysis of the subject, but also permits course

aircraft to be more efficient. DFAN has

today’s increasingly complex missions and requirements.

Given the superb education and research experience our cadet’s receive,

ranking is no surprise and further underscores

the major impact our cadets have

insuring the USAF remains the world’s greatest Air and Space force. on

answered the challenge by investigating util-

ity and aerodynamic performance of winglets

SPACE

for the KC-135R. This integrated computa-

In addition to our support in the “air” arena,

enhancements like simulation and war-

tional and experimental research effort seeks

more

gaming, primary research, and oral history interviews, among other things. These new offerings represent a fundamental and major improvement in the teaching of airpower history at USAFA. Furthermore, DFH is contemplating the introduction of an air and space power history track designed to bring additional understanding and appreciation

to design winglet options and then determine

education and research at the Academy have

the net effect of the various options on mis-

coalesced into a truly unique set of space

sion duration, range, and handling qualities.

programs supporting USAFA outcomes, and Air Force and Department of Defense needs.

Beyond

our

efforts with legacy air-

craft, support for future concepts involves

Our graduating cadets are now more space

experimental investigation of aerodynamic

savvy upon entering their Air Force careers

performance of the next-generation Space

than ever before.

Shuttle for the Air Force Research Lab and

Through a diverse combination of classroom, research, and laboratory facilities, along with a broad spectrum of faculty space expertise across multiple academic departments and disciplines, each cadet today has the opportunity to learn fundamental knowledge about space systems, the space envi-

for air and space power to those cadets inter-

NASA. USAFA’s wind tunnel efforts have

ested in majoring in history.

provided key data for use in modeling and simulation. The resulting analysis showed NASA the best locations for payloads relative to the booster body. Additionally, DFAN is teamed with Arnold Engineering Develop

Just as the Department of History provides our

cadets a well-needed perspective on

where we’ve been as a nation and a service, our

Department of Aeronautics (DFAN) also

than 50 years of innovations in space

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

27

ronment, and space policy. Cadets directly participate in satellite design, development, and operations. They explore relationships among politics, policy-making processes, law and technology as they relate to the civil, military, commercial, and intelligence space sectors. They also study national space

space experiences preparing USAFA cadets to become tomorrow’s space leaders. In each

Scientific Research Multi-University Research

program, cadet teams, mentored by a multi-

ize the upper atmosphere and its impact on

disciplinary group of faculty members, apply systems engineering processes to design, build, test, and fly small satellites performing real DoD missions. They provide a “hands-

satellite operations. Cadets and faculty are

power to include roles, missions, doctrine,

on” educational experience for cadets, while

high-performance computers.

military operations, and battlespace effects.

Additionally, summer programs for both cadets and faculty at world-class facilities across the United States, and operational

applying a high level of practical engineering to solve real-world problems. Currently, the FalconSAT emphasizes developing a basic capability to fly small Air Force and DoD scientific and engineering payloads on threeyear cycles.

and acquisition experiences with Air Force

Space Command units, the Air Force Research Laboratory, the National Reconnaissance Office, National Aeronautics and

Space Administration, and industry partners complement and enhance the Academy’s integrated space capabilities while sharing USAFA expertise in key areas to support these agencies’ objectives.

The Eisenhower Center for Space and

designed to operate on orbit for 12 months. It is still providing valuable data the USAFA Department of Physics,

involved in developing new algorithms and software tools for space object characterization that run in a parallel environment on

DFP’s newest initiative is the acquisition of a two-meter telescope capable of tracking

satellites. The Academy’s new Fast-Track-

ing Telescope will form a cornerstone of Space Situational Awareness (SSA) education and research. It will provide world-class capabilities and facilities to help cadets learn about SSA, enhance the Academy’s existing efforts in SSA education and research, and

agencies, and is expected to do so for at

strengthen or establish partnerships with the SSA operational and research communities.

“First light” for the new telescope will be

least two more years.

sometime in the next 2 to 3 years.

to

Air Force Research Labs, and other DoD

Our next satellite, FalconSAT-5, will carry

Defense Studies, formed three years ago

a

and renamed from the Center for Defense

tized suite of payloads, and has already been

The Air Force’s mission statement is nota-

accepted for launch aboard another Space

ble for the inclusion of the term “cyber-

Test Program mission in December 2009

space.” The US Department of Defense defines cyberspace as a “domain characterized by the use of electronics and the electromagnetic spectrum to store, modify, and exchange data via networked systems and associated physical infrastructures.”

This definition and context emphasize that cyberspace is a warfighting domain, on

Policy last year in honor of former President Dwight D. Eisenhower, seeks to better integrate thinking about space into teaching defense policy issues to cadets and other young professionals—expanding cadet education about the importance of space to the nation into other Helds of study. The Center’s

first initiative was the development of a text-

book, Space Defense Policy, designed for the

beginning graduate or senior undergraduate level, and also for use by space professionals

throughout the DoD. The Eisenhower Center also produces its own scholarly journal, Space and

cadet-briefed, DoD-endorsed and -priori-

from Kodiak, Alaska. Our cadets are hard at work today completing design, fabrication, and testing of this system.

The FalconLAUNCH sounding rocket program—which began in 2002 in large part due to the popularity of FalconSAT—is a two-semester capstone design course that provides another realistic design experience for senior cadets.

Currently, FalconLAUNCH emphasizes developing a basic capability to fly small Air Force and DoD scientific and engineering payloads on a yearly

Defense, and sponsors one-day workshops on specific topics such as China’s space

basis. With the experiences of the previous

strategy and space situational awareness.

This summer, the center will again bring

program is the most ambitious and challenging rocket design and launch in USAFA’s

cadets from the service academies together

history. This year’s rocket was designed to carry a real-time video imaging system and a Micro-Electro-Mechanical System Inertial Measurement Unit, developed by the Air Force’s Space and Missile Systems Center, hopefully, to altitudes of over 140,000 feet and speeds in excess of Mach 4.

The Department of Physics (DFP) is

with students from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and George Wash-

ington University in the second Summer Space Seminar, a two-week program held in Colorado Springs and Washington, DC, introducing some of the nation’s best students to the challenges and opportunities presented in space studies.

The Department of Astronautics administers the FalconSAT and FalconLAUNCH

five years, this year’s FalconLAUNCH VI

involved in many diverse space education

and research programs from miniature

which you have no doubt read in previous

plasma sensors that fly on the FalconSATs to novel, light-weight optics and fast wavefront sensors for adaptive optics. The department

issues of Checkpoints) that provide innovative

is an active member of an Air Force Office of

senior capstone design programs (about

28

FalconSAT-3, launched in March 2007, was

Initiative to better understand and character-

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

CYBERSPACE

par with air, space, land, and sea. It is not a mission or a mission area, but a domain in which conflicts take place and adversar-

ies vie for dominance. Competition and

conflict in cyberspace are ongoing. The

Academy is intensely involved in preparing cadets to fly, fight, and win in this domain.

Preparing our graduates to operate in such a domain requires a broad-based core curriculum. The core courses directly supporting cyberwarrior development are from a variety of academic departments, such as computer science, law, electrical engineering, philosophy, physics, chemistry, behavioral sciences, engineering, and military strategic studies.

Our aim is to produce officers who can not only effectively operate and fight in cyberspace, but do so in a legal and ethical manner with full understanding of the complexities of the human and military strategy as applied to the domain of

cyberspace.

Another way in which we develop

cyberwarriors is through organized military

training events. BCT integrates skills training and efforts are underway to ensure adequate consideration is given to the domain of cyberspace. Several other summer programs are candidates for cyberspace training events

ated 37 cyberwarfare computer scientists.

The Academy’s emphasis on information

system, provide required services, and react to attacks. This experience is very realistic

both within the Computer Sci-

and represents a scenario they may well be

assurance, ence

major and across the curriculum and

involved in within a few years of graduation and commissioning.

that serve to reinforce the academic content

institution, has received national recognition as a Center of Academic Excellence in

provided by cadet education programs.

Information Assurance Education, a joint

Examples of such programs include Global

program of the National Security Agency

cyber warfare, students and faculty at the Academy have the opportunity to participate

Engagement, an air expeditionary forcedeployment exercise, the summer space program, and the emerging summer unmanned

and Department of Homeland Security.

in state-of-the-art research projects across a

To provide students with a workable

wide range of cyberspace topics. In recent

In addition to classroom instruction in

aerial vehicle program. USAFA has begun

knowledge of the practical aspects of cyber warfare, a project-oriented approach is taken

years, Computer Science students have participated in projects at the NSA, the National

examining and expanding all its programs

in the classroom. This allows students to

Reconnaissance Office, and the Air Force

that touch every cadet to ensure that every

“get their hands dirty” with the offensive and

Information Operations Center.

graduate is provided the foundations required

defensive tools associated with cyber security.

As you can see, your Academy is dedicated

“fly and fight in cyberspace.”

Projects such as password cracking, intrusion

to

For the cadets that choose to be Com-

detection, and vulnerability assessment give

puter Science majors, one area of special-

students a real-world understanding of the

corps it needs to carry out its critical missions. In addition, we are directly contribut-

ization open to them is cyberwarfare. This

concepts they learn from textbooks.

One significant project of note is the

to

includes a focus on information assurance and the concepts associated with both offensive and defensive applications in

annual Cyber Defense Exercise, a network

cyberspace. Students selecting this option

academies. Students must design, operate,

take courses in cryptography, informa-

and defend a network of services against an

tion warfare, and network security in

attacking opponent, in this case, a National Security Agency red team. Each team is evaluated on how well they design a secure

addition

to traditional

courses.

Since 2004, USAFA has gradu

computer science

defense competition held between the service

providing the Air Force the future officer

ing to these missions in our cadet-involved research efforts. The Air Force Academy is committed to do its part in developing officers of character equipped with the intellectual curiosity to operate in the chaos and uncertainty of combat, whether or not it takes place in the atmosphere, in space, or in the cyber-world. B

What has MOAA done for me lately?

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A PASTEL IIORJZ0N

CATCHING A C.UMPSF. OF THE

ACADEMY ART COLLECTION

BY LEWIS CAKLYLE

or

F

covers

those who have never witnessed a Norman Rockwell

painting in person, the experience is quite extraordinary.

One of the most celebrated illustrators in American

history, the artist is best known for his countless magazine for the Saturday Evening Post, telling the stories of

everyday America through its humble citizens. Though most

Ironically, the vast size of the Academy’s collection is also its biggest challenge.

Americans have grown up with Rockwell’s iconic images by way

of calendars, posters and books, few have actually seen an

original painting in person. Thanks to the Air Force Academy collection of art, one such painting hangs in the Admissions office of our very

own

Harmon Hall.

Originally created as a recruiting poster for the Air Force in the 1950’s, the Rockwell depicts a jovial pilot backed by a trio of fighters. Renowned for his attention to detail, the artist

leaves nothing to be desired, from the glint of the parachute rip cord all the way down to the stitches on the pilot’s flight jacket,

booking closely, one can see that the artist is light on the brush, feathering his paint strokes in a delicate blend of colors which leave finite textures on the canvas. A true piece of Air Force

history, the painting is one of more than 1,200 pieces which comprise the art collection here at the Academy.

Paul Martin is Historical Properties Custodian of the Academy collection, which is divided into three categories. “First you have Academy art,” explains Martin, “which is produced by local artists, graduates, and cadets. Then there is the Air Force Art

Touched by Lightning Artist: Robert Bailey

Program, which includes pieces on loan from the Pentagon Art Program. And finally there is the art which is registered with the National Museum of the US Air Force at

Wright Patterson.”

The collection covers a wide scope of artistic and historical artifacts,

ranging from an international plethora of ornately forged metals awarded to General Hoyt Vandenberg, to an original Audubon Society print of Icelandic falcons. The collection even includes a hand made Samurai sword reputed to have been given to General Carl Spaatz during the Japanese surrender of WWII on board the USS Missouri.

Naturally, a vast majority of the pieces in the collection depict the story of aviation, a time honored subject with which the Air Force is most intimate. Throughout the corridors of Harmon,

Arnold, and Fairchild Halls, these artifacts unite to form a history of flight, from the rickety wood and canvas mockup of the

Wright Flyer, to the unforgettable dog fights of World War II, to the brink of the stars with the space program.

Ironically, the vast size of the Academy’s collection is also its biggest challenge. Despite the multitude of artifacts on display

all over campus, the archive is filled with pieces never before seen

by the public. “Ideally,” describes Martin, “the biggest issue, and what would solve it, is a centralized viewing exhibit. A museum.

What we need is a permanent gallery that tells the Academy story, not

just of the school, but of the entire base, from its inception.”

Plans for a permanent collection are still a long way off, but as art from to

all over the world continues to arrive, developing a means

display it will be critical to the success of the program. As it

stands, there is no formal strategy for a museum, but the need is

increasingly evident with every new canvas which arrives.

“The chapel should always be the main draw,” says Martin, “because it’s so well known. We don’t want to build a facility that

Medals awarded to Gen. Idoyt Vandenberg. From left to

right: Military Order of Italy, Egyptian Order of the Nile, Grecian Order of the Phoenix

detracts from that, but rather one that works in conjunction with the

forces, its role has proven critical in virtually every military

visitor center and the chapel. We’re looking at the existing planetarium

campaign since its inception, making a strong case for a museum here in Colorado Springs.

as a visitor

experience. This helps to centralize the experience of the

visitor without sacrificing security within the cadet area.”

Martin is also quick to point out that the Air Force Academy is the only service academy without a museum. Both West Point

and the Annapolis have permanent collections on display to the

public. Though the Air Force is the youngest branch of the armed

“It would be good to distill the collection down,” says Martin. “There is a lot of stuff that is extraneous to the

Academy. The collection should really tell the Academy story. It’s time to start thinking about that.”

The proof is on the walls: in its 50 years, the Academy has definitely written a memorable story. One way or another, we can be certain that people will continue to chronicle the Air Force’s pursuit of flight. Whether they are depicting ancient relics of the past, or modern machines of the future, the artists who have contributed to the collection would certainly agree

that one need only look to the canvas, to see the skies ahead. O

Samurai sword reputed to have been

given to Gen. Carl Spaatz during the Japanese surrender of WWII on board the USS Missouri

True, Bradley was a member of West Point’s legendary Class of 1915, “The class the stars fell on,” and interestingly he was also the first of his class to be promoted to general officer rank. But Bradley’s first 25 or so years of active duty were, to say the least, unremarkable.

He had spent 13 of these years as an instructor, including two tours at West Point, one tour of ROTC

BRADLEY

duty, and two tours at the Army Infantry School. In 1941 he was also promoted directly from lieutenant colonel to brigadier general. Therefore, this promotion was all the more remarkable because Bradley had never commanded a field unit until he found himself a division commander later in 1941,

and he had never been shot at until the North African Campaign in

1943. Nevertheless, from the beginning—in my opinion—Bradley proved himself to be probably the most capable and reliable of all the

major field commanders of World War II. In a few words, probably no general officer ever displayed

such an across-the-board talent as a planner, an administrator, and a field commander. There is an old urban legend among academic scholars that the Comanche American Indian tribe

had wartime chiefs and peacetime chiefs, but no chief could handle both tasks. Bradley was the exception to this widely held belief. He excelled in both peace and war.

Bradley

About half of the book is devoted to Bradley’s notable WWII achievements. It follows carefully Bradley’s role as

combat commander from North Africa to Normandy through to the final VE day. Also included in the narrative is this patient commander’s sometime thorny, sometimes close relationships with the flamboyant likes of Patton, Truscott, and Montgomery. Although personally disapproving of their behaviors, Bradley got along with all of them.

However, one of Bradley’s greatest and unrecognized active duty accomplishments was as the head of the Veterans Administration. President Truman had taken note of Bradley’s extraordinary patience along with his unusual ability to get along with politicians, and so by personal presidential invitation, Bradley swallowed his disappointment and took over and revitalized an inefficient and faltering VA into an effective civilian organization. By 1948, Bradley was named Army Chief of Staff, and by 1950 he was appointed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. It was only in 1950 that Bradley’s accomplishments were fully recognized by Congress, and he was at last promoted to 5-star rank, the last of American generals to be promoted. Coincidentally, he was also the last of the 5-star generals a

A REVIEW BY

Frederick V. Malmstrom, ’64

THERE ARE SURPRISINGLY FEW FULL-LENGTH BIOGRAPHIES OF GENERAL OF THE ARMY OMAR N. BRADLEY. ALAN AXELROD’S SLIM VOLUME BRADLEY FILLS THIS GAP NICELY. MUCH HAS BEEN WRITTEN AND REWRITTEN ABOUT PATTON, HALSEY, MONT-

GOMERY, AND SCORES OF OTHER MILITARY FIGURES WHO EAGERLY BATHED IN THE SPOTLIGHT

OF THEIR OWN SELF-CREATED PUBLIC RELATIONS.

CONTRARILY, HORN-TOOTING WAS NOT THE PERSONALITY OF OMAR BRADLEY. IN FACT, BRADLEY PERSONALLY DISAPPROVED OF PATTON’S GRAND-

STANDING, DESCRIBING HIM AS A “STRANGE DUCK.” AXELROD PRESENTS A STRAIGHTFOR-

WARD, CHRONOLOGICAL, AND EASILY READABLE BIOGRAPHY OF THE LAST OF OUR FIVE-STAR OFFICERS. HIS BOOK SENT ME SEARCHING FOR MORE

to die at the venerable

age of 88 in 1981.

A significant portion of Bradley relies on Bradley’s own

autobiography, Omar N. Bradley A Soldier’s Story. However, this book is also well footnoted and referenced from numerous other

respectable sources. There seems to be nearly universal agreeBradley was the most belatedly appreciated and all-around capable officer the U.S. Army has ever seen.

Not every general needs a press agent, a brass band, and a super egoistic personality to achieve greatness. B ment that Omar N.

INFORMATION ON THIS QUIET, PERSONABLE, AND DUTY-BOUND MILITARY LEADER ABOUT WHOM SO LITTLE IS WRITTEN.

Axelrod, Alan (2008). Bradley, (with a foreword by General Wesley C. Clark). New York: Palgrave Macmillan. 204 pages. $21.95

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE

2008

33

Jaitfi wm,

to

Spare Story and photos by Ken Wright

After a visit to the hospital to check out an unusual pain a marathon running cadet discovers the biggest race ofhis life could be just living long enough to graduate. By looking to his faith for strength, he found a peacefulpath to guide him along the way.

-

,

ust about any day at the Air Force Academy can be challenging. From the weight of academics, to military training and athletics, it all adds up. Cadet 2 nd Class Greg Rettier knows this as well as anyone in the Cadet Wing. The humble and quick-to-smile 20-year-old is entering his senior year at the Academy and, like his classmates, he’s more than ready for the final phase of his USAFA experience.

When the Green Bay, Wise., native arrived at the Academy

J

in summer of 2005, he was certain the next four years would be some

of the toughest and most rewarding of his life. His predic-

tion could not have been more true.

One of the things that helped him handle the stress that all

doolies feel that first year was finding a niche on the Academy’s

Marathon Club.

“I loved running since middle school because it took lots of

hard work and didn’t take as much talent as some other sports,” Rettler recalled. “So I was a little bit better at it. I got more payoff for the work I did. Running is a bit more about pain, than some

other sports like golf.”

Though he tried out for the track team his freshman year, his initial trial was a bit of a false start.

allow, but he knew he had found his sport when he finished his first race with a respectable time of 3:07 at Ft. Collins, Colo., in the spring of 2006.

A few months later he felt even prouder when he and his

“I tried out for track as a decathlete because I wasn’t really

classmates completed their doolie year; a feat all cadets relish. For

talented enough in any of my high school events to get on a collegiate division one team. I did the 800 and 400 [meter] in high school, but couldn’t post good enough times to be competitive,”

the next year-and-a-half, Rettler solidified his position in the club by working as hard and long as he could to improve his speed. By the start of his junior year, he was in the best shape of his life and looking forward to another year of chasing the finish line. But everything dramatically changed one weekend in October 2007.

During a morning shower, he noticed soreness in his groin; something that quickly gets any man’s attention. When the pain persisted through the weekend, Rettler decided to not take any chances and went to the Cadet Clinic to get a doctor’s opinion.

“The doctor said I couldn’t rule out something serious, so I had an ultrasound the next day.” A few hours after the procedure he received an ominous call from a urologist from Ft. Carson Army Hospital. The specialist told him to come in the next day and to not eat anything after midnight in preparation for possible surgery.

he recalled.

The team accepted one cadet that day, but it wasn’t Rettler.

Fortunately, he soon received a serendipitous e-mail saying the Marathon Club was looking for new members. Though he hadn’t pursued marathon running in the past, Rettler thought the longdistance races might be a good fit. Training for the endurance sport was a tough adjustment, but the biggest hurdle was learning good time management.

“Pretty much all your time is taken up your first year here. For my first marathon I ran only two or three times per week. My biggest run was on Saturdays. I ran as long as fast as I could, and then spent the rest of the week recovering,” he recalled.

He worked up to running 20 miles on those Saturdays. Recovery days included one or two runs for as long as time would

“I kind of knew then that it was cancer, but he didn’t tell me

until we were in person. He said he wanted me on the operating

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

35

“Thousands of people from all over the world were praying for

table by 9 a.m.,” Rettler recalled in a matter-of-fact manner.

The cadet’s parents were notified immediately of their son’s

me.

“My mother was more distraught than I was. My family and friends were all worried about me.”

family flew to the University of Indiana where 20 lymph nodes were

Though he knew his life was threatened, Rettler focused on recovering and comforting his mother and girlfriend, who were understandably shaken.

“It’s scary to know you have no control over your life, but the less afraid of dying.”

The timing of the ordeal also made him more confident that

everything was going to be alright. About a week before he found out he had cancer, Rettler prayed that God would do “great in his no matter the cost. “And then this life, things” happened,” he recalled. “So I thought it was related. And I knew He was going to do some amazing things with it. And I think He is.”

With his mother by his side as he recovered at the home of a friend in Colorado Springs, the aspiring fighter pilot was faced with a tough decision.

“The way cancer works is that they use a CAT scan to look at your lymph nodes and they can tell if there is lots of cancer there, but not if there are only one or two cells; and that’s all you need for it to spread,” he said. “The test and blood work showed no sign of cancer, but statistically there was still about a 30 percent chance of cancer being there.”

The only way to be certain he was clear of the deadly disease was to have an invasive surgery that would include a painful recovery period. The procedure is called Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection, commonly referred to as RPLND, which helps determine the stage and type of testicular cancer.

Because the lymph nodes behind the abdominal cavity are the most common place for the cancer to spread, examining them is highly encouraged.

“The cancer can go from your lymph nodes to your lungs and brain and all over the place. So if they found nothing in your lymph nodes, then you are usually good,” he said.

The idea of another surgery was anything but attractive, but

removed. To the relief and many others, the results con-

firmed that he was again healthy.

Remarkably, the young racer was again testing his endurance by running up Academy mountainsides a month later, but that first jaunt was a little premature.

peace I had from trusting that Christ had control of my life made me

It was an amazing experience,” he said gratefully.

The Academy excused him from all his classes while he and his

condition.

“They told me I could resume ‘full physical activity’ in four weeks, but I don’t think they understood what full physical activity for me was. Going up the mountain was fine, but coming down was kind of painful.”

Rettler says that getting through the entire experience was

understandably tough, but one thing in particular helped him sleep at night when his future was in question.

“My faith in God was definitely crucial to getting me through the ordeal. It helped me be stronger for my family and friends who were afraid I could die. I was able to accept that things were out of my control and I more

had to learn to trust God and doctors

than I had before.”

As he enters his “firstie” year at the Academy, Rettler is working

hard to return to his former fitness level, but his outlook has shifted a

little. Instead of focusing as much on grades and race times, he

wants to invest more in

people; and eventually a family. 9

To learn more about surviving testicular and other types ofcancer,

please go to www.cancer.org.

Rettler knew he was not alone.

AOG offers e-mail forwarding With e-mail forwarding, your address can stay

(^usafa-grads.com no matter what e-mail provider you um

Messages that are sent to the @usafa-grads.com

adaress are directed to your normal e-mail inbox.

(A service provided to graduates only) Visit the AOG Web site at www.usafa.org to sign up!

Forever preserve a moment in stone

Honor cm achievement

Celebrate a Graduation

*1

In recognition of your $250 tax-deductible gift

•

*

f.

*

Vit If" :

V

i t

'

it x

m

|| K V

to the Association of Graduates, a 4" x 6" granite

commemorative paver will be permanently

placed near the entrance way at Doolittle Hall.

For more information, contact The Office of

C Al- >■ rdr

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Annual Giving at (719) 472-0300, or visit the AOG online at www.usafa.org.

Double your gift for free-make the match!

The Association of Graduates Matching Gift Program Did you know you might be able to double or triple your gift for FREE? Thousands of companies match their employees’ charitable contributions^/orfree. Matching gifts play a key role in helping your Association of Graduates fund graduate, cadet and heritage programs at the Academy, and every dollar truly affects the day-to-day lives of more than 4,000 cadets.

Please ask if your employer has a matching gift program today!

For more information, visit us online at www.usafa.org or call (719) 472-0300.

Association of Graduates UNITED STATES AIR EORCE ACADEMY

Schwalier, ’69, still in the fight

Also recognized were the Academy’s 2006 Distinguished

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, top Pentagon lawyer Daniel Dell’Orto, and unnamed Justice Department personel have

Graduate Award recipients, retired Lt. Gen. Robert D.

forced USAF to halt and reverse its efforts to restore retired

due to their original ceremony being cancelled last year following a snowstorm.

The Distinguished Graduate Award began in 2001 and is presented by the Academy superintendent and the Chairman of the AOG to a USAFA graduate whose lifetime of achievement is of such significance as to set them apart from their contemporaries.

Brig. Gen. Terry Schwalier’s second star after a 10-year struggle.

The new decision was elaborated in a March 28 letter from

Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne to the Air Force Review Boards Agency, ordering it to hah implementation of its recent decision to correct “an injustice” and retroactively promote the Class of’69 graduate to major general. That corrective step has drawn strong praise from the Air Force Association and many other Air Force groups. They believed Schwalier had been made the fall guy by the Clinton Administration and some members of Congress for alleged command failures in the 1996 terrorist bombing of Khobar Towers in Saudi Arabia. Nineteen airmen died.

Beckel, ’59, and retired Maj. Gen. Edward J. Mechenbier, ’64,

Air Force launches mentoring program Officials from the Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center at Kirtland AFB, N.M., and the U.S. Air Force Academy

launched a new mentoring program when they signed a memorandum of agreement March 17.

The agreement enables AFOTEC members to mentor Acad-

Though the Senate had confirmed Schwalier’s promotion to major general before the attack, and though critics produced no

emy cadets enrolled in or considering engineering, scientific and

credible evidence of fault on the part of Schwalier, Secretary of

The AFOTEC mentoring program also supports the secretary of the Air Force’s desire to increase opportunities for officers

Defense William Cohen blocked his second star. In his March 28 letter, Wynne appeared to be acting under duress. He said

Gates “has informed me” that Dell’Orto thinks the Air Force

acted beyond its authority, that “the Department of Justice supports [Dell’Orto’s] conclusion of law,” and that “the Secretary of Defense agrees.” The service had already changed the general’s

official biography to reflect the new situation, giving his new

grade, promotion date, and retirement date. All that is now to be rescinded. Schwalier could not immediately be reached to discuss options, which clearly could include further legal action in federal court. (Courtesy AFA Daily Report) -

Academy announces distinguished graduates

mathematics disciplines.

serving in these disciplines to interact with cadets in order to demonstrate and explain post-graduation opportunities for cadets when they are commissioned.

The mentoring program will leverage AFOTEC officials’ experience in operations, test and evaluation to create a comprehensive approach assisting Academy cadets from all classes, including senior cadets during their capstone course. The AFOTEC Mentoring Program will promote engineering and scientific disciplines through guest speaker engagements, summer research opportunities and mentoring senior cadets in test principles as applied to their capstone design projects during the academic year. (Courtesy AFPN) IS

The U.S. Air Force Academy and the Association of Graduates honored retired Lt. Gen. Ervin J. Rokke, ’62, and Mr. Gregg

Popovich, ’70, as the winners of Academy’s 2007 Distinguished Graduate Award during the cadet noon meal in Mitchell Dining Hall on April 4. The recipients also received special recognition at the Academy’s Founders Day Dinner.

38

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

Female U-2 pilots bringing ISR to commanders below

BY SENIOR AMN. ROSS M. TWETEN

n

I

its 50 years of flight, the U-2 Dragon Lady’s controls have

been occupied by only six women pilots.

Left to right: Capt. Heather Fox, 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron U-2 Dragon Lady pilot, stands while Senior Amn. RoricOngaco (right) and

Three of those six are currently in the Air Force, and two of those three are currently fighting in Operations Enduring

Staff Sgt. Lisa Tetrick, 99th ERS physiological support division technicians,

help attach the torso harness to her suit. (Levi Riendeau)

and Iraqi Freedom with the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing’s 99th

Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron; the only U-2 squadron in the area of responsibility.

Maj. Merryl Tengesdal and Capt. FFeather Fox, ’00, both U-2 pilots with the 99th ERS, home-stationed out of Beale Air

The U-2 Dragon Lady. (Rose Reynolds)

Capt. Heather Fox receives 100 percent oxygen in preparation for a mission while SrA Roric Ongaco, 99th ERS physiological support division technician,

Force Base, Calif., continue to add to women’s and the U-2’s

monitors Captain Fox’s suit pressure at a base in Southwest Asia, March 25,

history, while fighting the Global War On Terror 70,000 feet

2008.

(Levi Riendeau)

in the air.

From these altitudes, Maj. Tengesdal and Capt. Fox, along with

their wingmen of the 99th ERS, provide other warfighters with

intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance of the battle space.

Since its introduction in 1957, the U-2 and the men and women

who support it have provided the United States, and all

its branches of military, with an unmatched upper hand on the enemy by providing high-altitude intelligence to commanders.

“After we’ve completed a mission, and landed the aircraft, it’s

rewarding to know that we’ve helped the forces on the ground, and kept them safe,” said Captain Fox. “Even after 50 years, the U-2 has a significant impact on the mission.”

According to Lt. Col. Thomas Engle, ’90, 99th ERS commander, the U-2 is an unforgiving aircraft which requires exceptional airmanship to fly, and is arguably the most difficult aircraft in the world to land. Pilots are carefully screened before being accepted for training, to include a three sortie interview profile to determine the applicant’s aptitude for flying the “Deuce.” Fewer than half of the candidates invited to interview eventually get qualified to fly combat reconnaissance missions in the aircraft.

Missions in excess of nine hours wearing a full pressure suit while

flying at extreme altitudes are very fatiguing and require a high degree of professional commitment.

“Major Tengesdal and Captain Fox are both experienced U-2 instructor pilots bringing a high level of maturity and skill to the 99th ERS,” said Colonel Engle. “I place a high degree of trust in these officers, as they face tough decisions every day to keep our pilots and aircraft safe while executing the mission; and they do it admirably.”

Fewer than 850 airmen have piloted the U-2 since its introduction.

According to Captain Fox, the small number of women whose names are on

that list is just another number.

“To be perfectly honest I really don’t think it’s that big of a deal,”

she said. “The aircraft flies the same for women as it does for men.

I’m just glad I’m a part of an aircraft with such a great mission.”

According to Major Tengesdal, every contribution in the military is important to winning the GWOT. “As a pilot, all that matters is the mission, no matter if you’re

male or female,” she said. “We get it done out here, and I’m happy to be a

contributing member of this team. It’s an honor to be a

part of the U-2 heritage.” H

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

39

cademy volunteers help Navajo Korean War veteran

“The first thing we had to do was demolish the first deck.

We had to clear that out so we could actually work here,” said

Cadet 2nd Class Nicole Ramstein. “Once we got that cleared out

enough, we put up the poles for the support and roof of the deck, then we started trying to frame it up.”

While one group of volunteers worked on the new porch and wheelchair ramp, another group worked on installing a new door.

“We replaced the existing door with a wider door and frame, so she can actually get into the house with her wheelchair,” said Maj. Dan Derby, one of the volunteers and an Academy civil engineer-

By John Van Winkle, USAFA PA

AIR FORCE ACADEMY CADETS, CIVIL ENGINEERING

PROFESSORS AND FAMILY MEMBERS PERFORMED VOLUNTEER WORK DURING THE ACADEMY’S SPRING BREAK MARCH 24 TO 28 ON A NAVAJO RESERVATION IN

NAVAJO, N.M.

Organized by the Academy’s Department of Civil and Environ-

its final location this week.

mental Engineering and the Southwest Indian Foundation, one

“This site actually comes from the Navajo hogans that the cadets

of this year’s spring break projects took the Academy volunteers to

built in the summer of2007,” said Maj. John Christ, ’96, the officer-

the home of Korean War veteran Hoskie Bitsilly, Sr.

in charge of the group and an Academy civil engineering instructor.

Mr. Bitsilly’s wife, Grace, suffered a stroke recently and is now

The home’s foundation is elevated four feet off the ground,

wheelchair-bound, but their home was not wheelchair-accessible.

“The cadets are trying to renovate the deck, to extend out the deck so mama can move back in here,” said Mr. Bitsilly. “She’s

requiring cadets to do some excavation work.

“Now what we’re doing is coming around and filling in the

staying

at a friend’s house

right now.”

sides underneath the building from the foundation to the base

of the floor, and we’re just putting in a cinderblock wall,” said

Cadets used tools and materials provided by the Southwest Indian Foundation, as well as salvageable lumber from the old deck.

40

ing instructor.

Academy volunteers also installed handrails inside the house, and a railing around the heater so the residents would have something to hold on to when near the heater and can maneuver safely around it.

Two miles up the road, the other half of the Academy volunteers were learning an unscripted lesson on site conditions, puttheir ting engineering experience and coursework to use.

For the past decade, Academy cadets working toward environmental and civil engineering majors have built hogans as part of a summer core engineering course. Cadets have built almost 20 over the past decade, and got a chance to see their work on hogans

Major Christ. “But before we can do that, we had to go down to the foundation, which required us to basically chisel out frozen

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

Previous page: Air Force Academy Cadet 3rd Class Ted Ornelas and Cadet 2nd Class Holly Bigelow excavate frozen soil from underneath an Academy-built

Navajo hogan March 26 in Navajo, N.M. The soil must be excavated before concrete and block can be set to finish the traditional eight-sided Navajo

home’s foundation. (Photo by John Van Winkle/USAF)

ground so they could place their block.”

That task resembled stonemasonry more than excavation, but

brought home some long-term lessons, said cadets.

“There’s a lot of grunt work, and sometimes you’ve got to

get dirty and do stuff like that,” explained Cadet 3rd Class Ted Ornelas. “But when you’re leading your airmen, they’re going to be doing stuff like this and now I have a better understanding of what they’re going through. So when I ask them ‘can you go dig up some frozen dirt,’ I’m not sitting in my office in my warm chair. I actually understand what they’re going through. And I can

actually get down and help them with it.”

The hogan built at the second job site will be dedicated March 29, after which the family can then move into their new, Air Force Academy-built home.

“Now that I know this is a lot of fun, I’m going to do this again next year,” said Cadet Ornelas. S

Elections and Nomination Procedures The AOG is governed by a Board of Directors consist-

ing of not more than eleven elected directors and up to four appointed directors. Elections are conducted and

appointments made in odd-numbered years. Approxi-

mately half of the elected and appointed positions are open at each election cycle. Any AOG member willing to fulfill the a

requirements of directors may submit

nomination

package. There are two nomination

tracks. With the support of five members, a candidate

may be considered by the Nominating Committee for

placement on the ballot. By petition of 25 members, a candidate may be placed on the ballot without review

by the Nominating Committee.

Complete nomina-

tion information can be found on the AOG Web Site at

www.usafa.org. Nominations for the 2009 elections will be accepted in 2008.

Northwestern Preparatory School Located in Southern California 4~

Post High School Service Academy Preparation Exclusively

4”

Appointments to the U.S. Air Force Academy and other Service Academies have been received by over 90 percent of our students.

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SAT/ACT Enhancement

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Candidate Fitness Assessment Improvement

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“Northwestern Prep provided me with an academic foundation that raised my SAT scores by 200 points, as well as an ability to

focus on the essential preparation to succeed at the Academy.

As a result of the self-confidence I gained there, I became Outstanding Student in CST, Outstanding 2nd Class Cadet in 3rd Group, Team Captain of Women s Fencing, and Outstanding Squadron Commander of the #7 ranked squadron of the wing! ”

2002 USAFA Graduate Suzanne Durbeck, Executive Director 1-800-367-8839 / www.northwesternprep.com / E-mail:

prepnwp@aol.com

T

he U.S. Air Force Academy and the Association of Graduates honored the winners of 2007 and 2008

Distinguished

Graduate Award during the cadet noon meal in Mitchell

Dining Hall on April 3. They also received special recognition that night at the Academy’s Founders Day Dinner.

Earning this prestigious honor for their distinctive contributions to society and the nation for 2007 were Lt. Gen. Ervin J. Rokke, ’62, and Mr. Gregg Popovich, ’70. Lt. Gen. Robert D. Beckel, ’39, and Maj. Gen. Edward J. Mechenbier, ’64, are recipients for 2006, but had their ceremony cancelled last year due to a snowstorm.

The Distinguished Graduate Award began in 2001 and is presented by the Superintendent of the Academy and the Chairman of the AOG to a USAFA graduate whose lifetime of achievement is of such significance as to set them apart from their contemporaries.

The purpose of the award is to:

-Recognize outstanding performance by graduates who have demonstrated a lifetime of service to the nation

-Favorably promote the Air Force Academy and its graduates -Promote and increase awareness of graduate heritage among alumni and cadets General Rokke graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in

1962. His professional career involved multiple assignments in the

intelligence community, both in the U.S. and overseas, and included a tour of duty as the Dean of the Faculty at USAFA. His last active duty position was president, National Defense University in Washington, D.C., before retiring July 1, 1997. Dr. Rokke currently serves as the Chair for Character and Leadership at the Air Force Academy. A full biography is located at www.af.mil/bios/bio.asp?bioID=696l.

Mr. Gregg Popovich is a 1970 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy. He played basketball all four years at the Academy and served nine years on active duty using his degree in Soviet Studies while serv-

42

Distinguished Graduates, Maj. Gen. Edward J. Mechenbier, ’64, Lt. Gen. Robert D. Beckel, ’59, and Lt. Gen. Ervin J. Rokke, ’62, were honored at an April 3 Founders Day dinner at the Academy. Also honored as a DG was Mr. Gregg Popovich, 70, who was unable to attend the celebration. (Photo by Lewis Carlyle)

ing tours in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union. He returned to the Academy to serve as assistant coach of the basketball team for six years before moving on to be a successful coach in the NBA. He is currently the Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations and Head Coach of the NBA champion San Antonio Spurs. A full biography is located at www.nba.com/media/spurs/frontoffice_0708.pdf.

General Beckel was in the first graduating Class of 1959. He was a three-time Cadet Wing Commander, All-American basketball player, and flew the solo slot for the Thunderbirds. He also flew 313 combat missions in the F-100 during the Vietnam War and served with distinction during Deserts Shield and Storm. He was the first Academy graduate to become the Commandant of Cadets. After retirement, General Beckel served for eight years as superintendent of the New Mexico Military institute. A full biography is located at www.af.mil/bios/bio.asp?bioID=4637.

General Mechenbier graduated from the Academy in 1964. He was shot down in June 1967 while flying an F-4C on his 80th mission over North Vietnam and was held as a prisoner of war for nearly six years. He was a leader in the Ohio National Guard and later

transferred to the Air Force Reserve where he served with the Joint

Logistics Center and Headquarters Air Force Materiel Command at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. He also served on the Reserve Forces Policy Board. In naming General Mechenbier a Distinguished Graduate, the Academy and Association of Graduates are honoring the concept of the “citizen-airman” for the first time. A full biography is located at: http://www.af.mil/bios/bio.asp?bioID= 10969. H

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

■

:

mk

FAC Memorial to be dedicated in Memorial Park, Colorado Springs n

O

Oct. 3, 2008, a major event of the 2008 Forward Air Controller Reunion will be the dedication of a memorial hon-

oring more than 250 FACs, crewmen, and support personnel who died in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. Each list of names on the two wings of the memorial will be headed up by the name of a recipient of the Medal of Honor. The names of 29 USAFA graduates will be on the memorial. Other engravings in bronze and granite will tell more of the little-known story of Forward Air Controllers who had a major combat role in the war and who saved the lives of many American soldiers and Marines in battles on the ground. Medal of Honor recipient Col. (Ret.) “Bud” Day has been invited to be the dedication speaker. The Misty “Fast FACs” will dedicate a Misty memorial as part of the overall FAC Memorial. Flybys by vintage FAC aircraft and F-I6s of the Colorado Air National Guard are expected .

*fl»

to be a part of a ceremony

worthy of the American heroes honored.

The Forward Air Controller Association invites everyone who wants to pay tribute to these men to join in the dedication ceremony. Information about the 2008 FAC Memorial and the Reunion is available online at www.fac-assoc.

org/ColoradoSprings.htm.

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During the Outstanding

Academy Educator dinner THIS SPRING, C1C HlLA

Levy, this year’s Rhodes

Scholar, gave a powerful SPEECH ABOUf HER REMARKABLE LEARNING EXPERIENCE AT the Academy and how THE FACULTY MADE ALL THE

DIFFERENCE.

HER WORDS ^TERE

SO MOVING THAT WE

OUGHT

THEY WERE WORTH SHARING

g

with Checkpoints readers.

BY C1C HlLA LEVY PHOTO BY KEN WRIGHT A FEW YEARS AGO, I never would have thought myself capable or

our

micro-planets, the DF departments. He would marvel at the

worthy of delivering this speech. I most certainly still do not. I

cadets wishing, but unable, to go to the restroom in the Astro

honored and humbled to be here today to share in this event

department. He would wonder why the Philosophy department is

am

in which we commemorate those who have made outstanding

the Pluto of the Dean’s solar system, or should I say Plato, isolated

contributions to the learning and development of cadets like me.

on

There is a lot to be said about education, and I think everyone in this room knows that. What I would like to convey to you, however,

the first floor from everyone else. He would stare puzzled at

the Chemistry department drawing seemingly primitive fig-

is the impact of a good education; the impact of being an outstanding

ures—organic compounds. Or maybe he would try and figure out what Maj. Brothers does in the human performance lab with all of

educator, a dedicated faculty member, an attentive mentor, or even a

those trampolines and dunk tanks. The little prince might laugh

caring parent. Education is a collective effort. It comes not from one

at all the bizarre

person, but from a whole community and a life of experiences.

Throughout my life, The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exu-

the English department. He might stare curiously, while holding

his nose, at Lt. Col. Bishop fiddling with cadavers in the anatomy

pery has had a special place in my heart. The title character is an

lab. But most of all, he would be awed by the sheer amount of

innocent traveler from outer space who arrives in the Sahara desert

after visiting many other planets. On each planet, the prince meets

time the Academy’s teachers are willing to stay in the nearly windowless Fairchild Hall, teaching people in blue.

different adult and reveals their weaknesses. Sometimes I wonder

The Academy is an interesting place. Luckily, you faculty have an

a

what the Little Prince would think if he came through each of

easy population to teach. Your students are extremely well rested. They

THE IMPACT 44

things humans do on Blue Tube productions in

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

Towards the end of The Little Prince a fox appears and talks to

arrive to class fashionably dressed. They have no additional responsi-

bilities,

so

class is always their priority. They even use standardized cups

,

the prince, who is feeling down. (I suspect he was studying for a

for drinking their beverages in class. Certainly, their attention is easy to

physics GR). The fox teaches the prince the story’s moral. “On ne

get and keep. Yes, certainly...

voit bien qu’avec le coeur. L’essentiel est invisible pour les yeux,” the

I think we all know what a unique challenge it is to teach at the

little fox says. “It is only with the heart that you can see fully. What

Academy. Your dedication to teaching and to being a presence in

is essential is invisible to the eyes.” The fox’s truth is one that many

the classroom is special. It makes our institution stand out among

have forgotten, but it has pushed members of our profession to seek

others. This priority makes me proud to be a student at the Air Force

a

Academy, where I know I will never have to fight for a professors attention; where, for the most part, they will know everyone in the classrooms name; and where I am confident I will be given a fair to succeed. The

relationships cadets build with their

life of selfless service, often with little material compensation. The fox calls his lesson “his secret,” because this bit of knowledge is not available to all. FFaving it is a privilege.

I firmly believe that the Academy educational experience is an enormous, yet invisible,

privilege. We have a unified mission and

opportunity faculty is like none other. I certainly do not know of full professors at

vision, and yet we produce officers who are able to calculate lift coef-

other institutions providing their cell phone numbers to students if

ficients, modulate frequencies, interpret DNA, build an airbase, write

they need help, related to the class or not. Or how about the tremendous faculty who fight to acquire money and resources to provide cadets with enriching out-of-the-classroom experiences and opportunities, or even give us a bit of morale?

I believe that I am speaking to you today because of these collective experiences that have given me so much more than just the bachelor in science degree I hope I am still receiving next month. I am here because of the statistics teacher who made stats come alive, letting us predict the odds that he would have another girl—which he did. I am talking about the genetics instructor who would come in on Sunday nights to provide us with 2 or 3 hour long study sessions prior to our GRs. About the humanities teachers who let me experience the joys of Mozart, Beethoven, and the romantic poets. My economics teacher who will never let me forget Adam Smith and bonobos—a monkey species closely related to humans.

Yes, that was economics I am talking about. I am here because teachers cared enough to be innovative and original. They enriched cadet learning by bridging disciplines together, music with military history, biology with economics, French literature with Islamic culture, law with medicine, and the largest bridge: astro with life. I am also here thanks those who pushed me where I had never been before: the organic chemistry teacher who taught me what it was to fail—or at least end up with a C+ —the research advisor who taught me what research is all about: “stuff happens,” and the behavioral science professor

who challenged my class, which now remains very close, to

say what we think. To those whom I’ve had the good grace of having as teachers, and for all whom I have not, I thank you.

an

essay, speak another language, interpret the UCMJ, plan a joint

or

coalition attack on a virtual enemy, solve a differential equation,

calculate the speed of an electron, know what an electron even is, set SMART goals, understand American politics, locate any country on a

map, use geospatial information systems to make their own map,

psychoanalyze you (while designing a satellite), plot a supply and demand curve for cadet time—(that is easy, demand: high, supply: zero), recite Napoleon’s life history, figure out how much force it takes to pull a bolt apart, and try to make sense of some imperative that is apparently categorical, all in the course of building a program using a dinosaur. [I think I got all of you ...]

It is hard to appreciate this breadth of knowledge in the day-to-

day grind, but no matter how lethargic your students may seem in your class, be assured they are getting something out of it; they just may not see it until much later. Teaching at a military institution with a core curriculum like ours is an enormous challenge, but I encourage you to enjoy every minute of it, because you do make a difference in our lives. You all may teach in different

subject areas, however, what you share is a great responsibility to show dozens of young adults the path into officership, leadership by example, an understanding of morality in practice, and the standards at which our nation expects us to perform. Although you may not give your students anything more material than a GR on their desks, when you make them feel like an integral part of the classroom, when you treat them as an individual worthy of respect, when you get involved, you give them that most essential gift—the one invisible to the eyes.

Thank you for giving me, those before me, and those who will come

after me, an incredible array of invisible gifts. B

OF A GOOD EDUCATOR CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

45

STS-33, only the third shuttle mission to launch at night.

Biaha launched on his fifth and final mission on STS-79, which docked to

the Russian Mir Space Station. The third American to live on the outpost, he set the

gram.

He has served in various commands

then-U.S. men’s record for time in space

throughout his career, including com-

during his four months in orbit.

mander of Alaskan Command, 11th Air

Loren Shriver was selected as an

Force, and the Alaskan North American

inducted into Astronaut Hall of Fame

astronaut with the first class of shuttle

Aerospace Defense Command Region.

More than 40 Hall of Fame astronauts

astronauts in

gathered at the Kennedy Space Center May

of STS-51C, a classified mission for the

2-3, to induct the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame Class of 2008. Of the four astro-

Academy graduates. Retired colonels John

Department of Defense. On his second flight, he led the deployment of the Hubble Space Telescope as commander of STS-31, beginning the telescope’s nearly

Biaha, ’65, and Loren Shriver, ’67, were each

20 years of imaging the universe.

Alaska Anchorage as dean of business and

inducted into the elite group of honorees.

public policy. (Courtesy of The Mirror)

voting committee and induction process.

Shriver’s last spaceflight was on STS-46, deploying the European Retrievable Carrier satellite, a European Space Agencysponsored free-flying science platform.

Shriver also performed the first test of the

The committee chose the 2008 inductees

Tethered Satellite System, a joint project

based on their achievements during their spaceflights and on their contributions to

NASA. (Courtesy of NASA)

Shriver, ’67, and Biaha, ’65,

nauts inducted this year, two are Air Force

The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, which hosted a gala on May 2 celebrating

the 2008 class, oversaw the selection of the

1978. He first flew as pilot

between the Italian Space Agency and

the U.S. space program in other activities.

The 2008 class is the seventh group of

Case, '69, named CEO of AADC

shuttle astronauts to be named to the hall

Alaska Aerospace Development Corp.

since 2001.

announced recently that it hired retired U.

Biaha became an astronaut in 1980, and over

the span of 17 years, he flew on five

space shuttle missions and one long-duration space station flight.

An Air Force aviator and test pilot,

Biaha first piloted Discovery on STS-29, the third flight following the loss of Chal-

lenger. His second flight was as pilot of 46

graduated from the National War College and served on the institution’s faculty for two years. In 1991, he completed Emory University’s advanced management pro-

S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Thomas Case as its new

president and chief operating officer.

“Case brings over 33 years of military

experience to Alaska Aerospace,” AADC said in a press release.

Case graduated from the Air Force Academy in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science degree in geography. In 1987 he

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

He is a command pilot with more than

4,000 flying hours, including more than 900 combat hours in the F-100, 0-2A, F-4, F-16 and F-15E. After retiring from the Air Force in 2002, Case went to work for the University of

Johnson, ’84, pilots Shuttle Endeavour Col. Gregory H. Johnson, ’84, was riding

high recently in Space Shuttle Endeavour’s pilot seat. This was Johnson’s first time piloting a space shuttle mission, which was a record-breaking 16-day mission to the International Space Station.

Johnson, 43, goes by the call sign “Box” and remembers watching Apollo astronaut Neil Armstrong walk on the moon from his grandparents’ home in Cairo, Mich.

He joined NASA’s astronaut ranks in 1998 and participated in the agency’s investigation into the 2003 Columbia tragedy.

“I don’t think we forget risk anymore, or at least it’s certainly in the forefront of our minds,” said Johnson, adding that

Nancy Love, Geraldine Mock, Margaret

Ringenberg and the Women’s Section of the Air Transport Auxilary were inducted as

well. (Courtesy AFPN)

Hoffman, ’74, to lead AFMC Department of Defense officials announced April 18 Lt. Gen. Donald J. Hoffman, ’74, currently the military deputy in the Office of the Assistant Air Force Secretary for Acquisition at the Pentagon, was selected to become the sixth commander of Air Force Materiel Command.

Malachowski, ’96, inducted into women’s aviation hali of fame

President George W. Bush nominated General Hoffman for promotion to

In the months since her last flight as the

the grade of general with assignment as

Thunderbirds No. 3 right wing pilot, Maj.

commander of AFMC, headquartered at

Nicole Malachowski has had a hard time

Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio.

putting her accomplishment of being the first woman to

fly

on a U.S.

military flight dem-

onstration team into a proper perspective.

General Hoffman will succeed Gen. Bruce

Carlson, the current AFMC commander who has served in the position since August

there will always be risks to shuttle flights.

At the San Diego Air & Space Museum

“Everything that has value has some risk,

March 14, she was blindsided by an emo-

when the change-of-command ceremony will

but I think that we’re really confident that

tional moment that placed her achieve-

occur, or when General Carlson will retire to

we’ve uncovered most of the hazards and

ments into focus.

end a 37-year Air Force career.

have controls for them.”

The visit to the museum was part of

2005. No dates have been announced for

One of nine Air Force major commands,

Johnson is a veteran F-15E Eagle fighter

the 19th Annual International Women in

AFMC’s mission is to conduct research,

pilot and flew 61 combat missions during two deployments to Saudi Arabia in the early 1990s. He and his wife, Cari, have one daughter, 10, and two sons, ages 13 and 14.

Aviation Conference held here March 12

development, test and evaluation, and provide acquisition management services and logistics support necessary to keep Air Force weapon systems ready for war.

through 15. The conference was attended by more

than 3,200 people.

The conference included an exhibit

hall, speeches by numerous aviation

Aretz, ’80, named new president

In his current position, General Hoffman

legends, professional development classes

is responsible for research and development,

by Mount St. Joe

and ended with the induction of Major

test,

Retired Lt. Col. Tony Aretz, ’80, was

Malachowski into the Women in Avia-

Force programs worth more than $23 billion

recently named president of the College of

tion International’s Pioneer Hall of Fame.

annually, (courtesy AFPN) S

production, and modernization of Air

Mount St. Joseph in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Aretz said building endowment funds

and connecting the private Delhi Town-

A0G E-mail Receipts

ship college with local businesses would be some of his top priorities.

“We need to really be entrepreneurial in

Your Association of Graduates is always looking for ways to improve

how we pursue students and other revenue

service while saving time and money. The AOG is sending electronic

opportunities,” said Aretz, whose doctoral

receipts for all credit card donations. Sending these receipts electronically will save the AOG a great deal of time and money!

degree is in engineering psychology. “We need to be a player in the local economy.”

The Lafayette, Ind., native is currently vice

president

at Christian Brothers

University,

If you made a donation to the AOG by credit card you should find your receipt in your e-mail account. If your e-mail account is blocking

which has about 1,800 students. While there,

e-mail from the AOG or the AOG does not have an e-mail address

he shepherded development of a strategic

you will be sent a receipt by mail. Please take a few moments to ensure the AOG has your most current e-mail address by going to

plan and added graduate programs including engineering management and undergraduate programs including biomedical sciences.

Aretz earned a bachelor’s degree in 1980

from the U.S. Air Force Academy, a master’s

degree from Wright State University and the doctoral degree in engineering psychology

www.usafa.org, logging in and then selecting “Update My Profile” on the left side of the screen. It is also important to ensure “aogusafa. org” is not included in your spam filters. If you need assistance with your donation or electronic receipt please contact Sandy Luckhurst at sandy.lockhurst@aogusafa.org or call 719-472-0300.

from the University of Illinois in 1990.

C H E C K P O 1N T S,

JUNE

2008

47

USAFA Endowment, Inc.

The USAFA Endowment, Inc. is a charitable foundation focused on providing financial support to the Air Force Academy. The organization was formed in July 2007 and was granted tax-exempt status as

A

CHARITABLE

THE

UNITED

FOUNDATION

STATES

AIR

SUPPORTING

FORCE

ACADEMY

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

A. Bart Holaday '65 Chairman

Terrance M. Drabant ’65 Vice Chairman

an

IRS-designated 501 (c)(3) public charity in March 2008.

The founders of the USAFA Endowment chose to establish a new type of foundation to enhance the

graduate community’s ability to raise, distribute and steward funds in support of the mission of the Air Force Academy In doing so, the founders chose to memorialize several unique “founding

principles” into the organizational bylaws to further encourage financial participation for the benefit of the Academy They are: I. NO FEES: Gifts are directed simply and efficiently All donations will be used exclusively for their

William E. Wecker ’63

Treasurer

William W. Maywhort ’68 Secretary

intended charitable purpose. No fees or deductions of any kind will be assessed on restricted gifts, and all investment gains will accrue entirely to the benefit of the intended charitable purpose.

2. STEWARDSFtIP IN PERPETUITY:The investment, safeguarding and disbursement of restricted gift

funds are made by and controlled by the USAFA Endowment consistent with the donor’s directive.

The

John M. Fox '63 Timothy J. Fyda’79

Max F. James '64

Jack N. Kucera ’78 Paul S. Madera 78

independent

Gilbert D. Mook ’67

PfARRYj. Pearce '64

Gen (ret.) Michael E. Ryan '65 Richard T. Schlosberg III '65

William H. Simpson '63

and direct these activities,

assuring

proper

3. FULLTRANSPARENCY:The above principles will have complete audit and donor visibility annually.

Annual reports will be provided to each donor—both for the USAFA Endowment as a whole, and for each donor's individual gift.

4. POSITIVE AND SUPPORTIVE APPROACFH: Our bylaws state that we want to be a positive and

supportive partner of the USAFA and its leadership. We will not make any public pronouncements policy decisions of the Academy or the Air Force.

principles create an organization in which our donors can feel completely confident that their investments will support the purposes for which they were given. Equally important, our donors are assured that their gifts will be carefully and consistently stewarded, as our

We believe that these

bylaws require, without fear of future financial or organizational changes. Ultimately, we believe this is a

Terrence L. Petrzelka ’70

oversee

stewardship of the gifts in perpetuity.

on the

Richard D. McConn ’66

Board of Directors will

foundation structure that will offer donors the confidence they require to give generously to their

Academy and its needs.

Moving forward, we hope to be able to use the energies of the USAFA Endowment and the AOG to work together in a supportive manner to assist one another with the shared mission of supporting the Air Force Academy. We all look forward to working with all of you.

If you have any questions, please contact our office in Colorado Springs and talk with Mark Hille ’97, Vice President of Major Gifts, at (719) 268-6037 or visit our website at www.usafaendowment.org

.

F. Keith Withycombe '66

Gen (ret.) Ronald W Yates '60

1975 Research Parkway, Suite 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 ,

-

Tel: ( 719 ) 268-6037

USAFA ENDOWMENT, INC.

-

Fax; ( 719 ) 886-4807

-

vAvw.usafaendowment.org

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Once Upon a Time

•

•

•

Pardo's Push Uncommon courage, ingenuity, and skill were combined in one of the most fabled Vietnam air war stories

By Steve Smith, Airman Magazine, December 1996 heir 1967 rescue from Laos was

missile sites and more than 1,000 anti-

not much different from any

aircraft guns.

other, but the “push” that saved

“This is the day,” they thought as

their lives made aviation history.

March 10 brought clear skies. A strike

Captains Bob Pardo and Earl Aman, ’61, and their back-seaters were assigned to

the 433rd Tactical Fighter Squadron at

force of F-105s and F-4s would again attempt to take out the site targeted by the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thai-

Joining Pardo was his back-seater, 1st Lt.

land. Their elusive target, the only steel

Steve Wayne. Aman was teamed up with 1st

production complex in North Vietnam— just north of Hanoi at Thai Nguyen-had been protected by low clouds during the nine days they’d tried to reduce it to rubble. They’d flown mission after mis-

Lt. Robert Houghton. Their job: protect the

F-105s and other F-4s in the strike force,

using their missiles against any threatening North Vietnamese MiGs. They also carried bombs for the steel mill’s destruction if they

sion in their F-4 Phantoms but with no

didn’t see any enemy aircraft.

luck. Intelligence sources reported it was

As the strike force neared the target, the skies remained clear of clouds and MiGs,

protected by a half-dozen surface-to-air

making the missiles unneeded. But their

anti-aircraft fire had found his fuel tanks,

bombs would soon join the tons of ordnance

draining 5,000 pounds of precious fuel in

“We first tried to put the nose of our aircraft in his drag chute compartment,”

to be

less than a minute.

he said. “But there was too much jet wash

dropped on Thai Nguyen.

Aman was in trouble even before he

“We were hit hard and losing fuel,”

began his bomb run. Heavy fire from anti-

Houghton recalled. “As we set a course

aircraft batteries found their mark. “He

that would take us straight to the refuel-

would have been justified to jettison his

ing aircraft, we understood we weren’t going to make it to the Laotian border. It

bombs and head for home,” Pardo said.

“Going ahead with the run showed a hell

was a sure

of a lot of fortitude and determination.”

hostile territory.”

More fire poured into the Phantoms,

finding Pardo’s aircraft. As both pilots pulled away from the steel mill, Pardo saw several warning lights flashing brightly in his cockpit, but the Phantom was still responding and flying normally.

Aman wasn’t as lucky. The barrage of

bet we’d have to bail out over

They were running out of options faster than they were running out of fuel.

In normal air operations, a crippled air-

craft would be escorted by its “sister bird,” and the bail-out point radioed to rescue

forces. That wasn’t good enough for Pardo.

He was about to make history.

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

coming off Aman’s plane.” Pardo then tried putting the top of his fuselage against the belly of the crippled F-4. Again, too much jet wash.

“Aman, drop your tailhook!” Pardo shouted desperately.

“What?” Aman replied.

“Your tailhook. Drop it! I’m going to try to push you along.”

The tailhook-used for carrier landings

by the Navy’s version of the now-venerable fighter, is used by Air Force crews only for emergency landings. The hook snags a barrier cable stretched across the runway to keep the

51

aircraft from veering or sliding. What Pardo

ruptured, and there’s an uncontrolled

fered a compression fracture of a vertebra

suggesting had never been done; the

fire, which can explode the engine and

during ejection, was floating directly toward a Laotian village. “They were yelling and pointing up at me as I dropped,”

was

aircraft wasn’t designed for such a maneuver.

Controlled by hydraulics, the tail-

Wayne couldn’t see the engine temperagauge from the back seat, so he didn’t

hook lowered and locked into place,

ture

swaying in the slipstream of the F-4’s

inform Pardo to shut it down. “I just to see the needle move out of

twin J-75 engines.

happened

Pardo pulled in behind and below Aman’s

the corner of my eye,” Pardo said. “I didn’t

crippled F-4 and slowly came forward,

need any more incentive to shut it down.”

hoping to lodge the elusive tailhook against the leading edge of his windshield.

Flying at 250 knots (about 300 miles an hour) the tailhook kissed the front of the

With only one engine to push two air-

craft, the sink rate increased to 2,000 feet per minute. Obviously, they weren’t going to make it on one engine.

Pardo hit the left engine start switch. It

windshield.

“Kissed is the right word,” Houghton

restarted and he resumed his push, hoping

said. “If he so much as bumped the wind-

hook hit the side panels. They were too

everything would be okay. Less than a minute later, however, the fire warning light returned. Wayne told Pardo the engine was on fire so he shut down the engine again-this time for good.

They flew another 10 minutes on the remaining engine. Wayne called for a couple of tankers, hoping they could link up and get a pull from the large

weak to take it.”

aerial gas stations.

shield, he would have had that tailhook in his face. We’re talking about glass here. It was

phenomenal flying, nothing less.”

Pardo, however, believed the windshield

glass

was

contact.

to withstand mild

strong enough “It was more than an inch thick,”

he said. “I had to be careful not to let the

With Aman’s engines running, it was

impossible

to make contact because of

But time was running out. The tankers

weren’t going to make it in time.

the jet blast. With barely a minute of fuel

Luck was still with the two aircrews.

remaining, Pardo radioed Aman to shut

for a few seconds at a time, but that

They had reached Laos, having crossed the Black River. Pardo and Wayne realized it was time to get Aman and Houghton out of their crippled aircraft. They couldn’t sustain the push much longer. Their F-4 was running low on fuel, and they were only 6,000 feet above ground, giving them about two minutes of flying time, two

tripled their glide range, decreasing their

minutes to bail out. When the last radio

sink rate to 1,000 feet per minute. Once

call for tanker support was received, rescue

he saw it could work, Pardo kept fighting

helicopters and several A-l Skyraider ground support aircraft were dispatched to where the crew was expected to bail out.

Pardo pulled back and advised Aman and Houghton to eject. As he watched their parachute canopies open beneath

down his engines.

Pardo inched into position and made contact.

They were now flying as one-two

aircraft flying on one pair of engines.

Slowly pushing his throttles forward, Pardo was able to keep the tailhook lodged

the wind, the sink rate and the swaying tailhook. “I can’t remember how many times the tailhook slipped off the wind-

shield, and I had to fight to get it back in

place,” Pardo said.

he said. “I knew if I landed on my back, I was finished. But I floated right into a tree.

My chute snagged on a limb and I

stopped, barely inches from the ground.

“As I unsnapped my harness and laid down, I couldn’t remember ever hurting so much,” he said. The sound of gunshots from approaching villagers changed that.

“It’s amazing how fast you can move when someone’s shooting at you,” Houghton said. “I headed out of there as fast as possible. I’ve never been so scared in my life!”

While Houghton was running from the

villagers, Aman was having problems of his own.

“I was wearing slick-soled boots, trying to scramble up a hill.

Every step forward

sent me back two.”

Houghton remembers laying in deep grass holding his radio and .38 pistol when he heard the unmistakable roar of

Skyraiders swooping low over the mountains. “Rescue choppers were close behind.

When the villagers headed for cover, the choppers found me and lowered a line,” Houghton said.

Meanwhile, Wayne and Pardo were

facing the same dangers from villagers, but rescue helicopters reached them first.

Within hours, all four had returned to

their home base at Ubon, not knowing

they wouldn’t see each other again for nearly 30 years.

“When we got back to Ubon, they didn’t know whether to court-martial me

pin a medal on my chest,” Pardo said.

“Some people felt I should have let Earl

or

and Bob eject and take their chances, so I

could land my aircraft safely.”

Although “Pardo’s Push”—as the feat

As if things weren’t bad enough, Pardo’s

him, Pardo hit the throttle on his remain-

F-4 started to show signs of the damage it

ing engine and headed for a U.S. Special

is now called-became another eye-pop-

sustained during the bombing run. A fire

Forces camp he knew was ahead.

ping chapter in aviation history, it took former U.S. Senator John Tower of Texas to get Pardo and Wayne the recognition they deserved. More than two decades after their heroic feat of airmanship, both

warning light indicated a probable exter-

Two minutes later, as Aman and

nal fire near the left engine, so Pardo shut

Houghton drifted toward the ground,

it down. When he restarted the engine,

Pardo and Wayne realized their fuel was

the warning light was off, but the internal

gone, and they’d have to bail out. “Steve ejected, and since I’d never flown a glider

temperature increased to more than 1,000 degrees Celsius.

“It should’ve read only 600,” Pardo said. “That meant the flame holders or

52

possibly the airplane.”

burner cans inside the engine have

before, I stayed with the F-4 a little longer, then bailed out,” Pardo said.

By now, Aman had landed on the back side of a cliff and Houghton, who’d suf CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

received the Silver Star.

*■*1

Advertising with the Association of Graduates is your opportunity to align your business with the name recognition of the Air Force Academy and its graduate community. The Air Force Academy is one of the nation's most precious and honored national treasures, attracting countless tourists, parents and locals each year. Capitalize on this affinity and advertise today!

For more information, contact: Alex Chavarria, Advertising

Phone: 719.472.0300, E-mail: alex.chavarria@aogusafa.org

www.usafa.org Association of Graduates UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY

f

5

GRAHAM, '99 NAMED 2008 JABARA AWARD RECIPIENT MH-53 crew commander proves to be combat-proven leader

C

apt. Jonathan W. Graham, ’99, has been selected to receive the 2008 Colonel James Jabara Award for Airmanship. He

distinguished himself through sustained superior perfor-

mance while

serving as an MH-53 Crew Commander, Instructor Pilot, and Weapons Officer assigned to the 20 th Special Operations Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Florida. Captain Graham, a member of the Air Education and Training Command, is currently a CV-22 Student Pilot assigned to the 71 Special Operations Squadron, 58 th Special Operations Wing, at Kirtland AFB, New Mexico.

Drawing upon experiences gained during multiple deployments to Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as the lessons learned from other MH-53 crews in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, the captain developed new, detailed and realistic training scenarios and threat briefs for crews to use during training missions.

The existing scenarios were outdated and did not reflect current st

Baghdad, a short-notice mission that was carried out successfully and without incident.

On April 26, 2006, Captain Graham commanded a seven-ship

assault in Baqubah, tasked with inserting 83 U.S. and Iraqi SOF troops to two separate objectives. En route to the objective area, his helicopter was engaged by insurgents armed with an SA-16 anti-aircraft missile. Capt. Graham immediately began defensive maneuvering and deployed flares, defeating the missile. He continued to lead the formation to the objective area and completed the mission.

Before departing Iraq, Graham developed a briefing for replacement MH-53 crews, focusing on aircraft changes, current threat

data and trends, as well as the tactics that MH-53 crews had proven during the most recent deployment. The level of detail in the brief provided the new crews with the information they

required to start flying combat missions within 24 hours of their

situations and advancements. The threat briefs associated with those

arrival, as compared to the usual 72-hour period required to pre-

scenarios focused on threat systems and counter-tactics that crews

pare new arrivals for combat duty.

likely to encounter in the current theater of operations.

In March 2006, Capt. Graham deployed for the fifth time to OIF. Due to his high level of experience and superior instructional abilities, he was given four non-combat experienced crewmembers as part of his six-man crew. Under his mentorship and leadership, Captain Graham’s crew quickly established themselves as the commander’s first choice to lead high-risk missions.

During his deployment, Captain Graham flew 66 combat sorties encompassing 96 combat hours. He led 23 joint and combined Special Operations Forces air-assault missions, mostly inserting American, British and Iraqi troops into hostile areas and providing air cover. He was also handpicked to lead a mission to transport the Combined Forces Special Operations Component

During the award period, Captain Graham also graduated from Squadron Officer School and was a Distinguished Graduate of the USAF Weapons School Weapon System Instructor Course, where he won the Flying Award for exceptional instruction during 22 training sorties. Upon completion of his current CV-22 training, Captain

were not

Commander on a daylight tour of SOF outposts in Ramadi and

54

By STEVE SIMON, 77

Graham will remain with the 71

st

at Kirtland AFB as an Instructor

Pilot for the CV-22 Mission Pilot Initial Qualification course.

Capt. Graham’s superior airmanship, dynamic leadership, outstanding initiative, and unparalleled achievements reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force. The Academy, the AOG, and the Jabara family are proud to name Capt. Graham the recipient of the 2008 James Jabara Airmanship Award.

Capt. Graham was presented with the award in front of the Cadet Wing on May 9, at Mitchell Hall. 9

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

From Frontline to lifetime Earn a Master’s or Bachelor’s Degree from TUI

“I received my masters and PhD from TUI while being deployed to

Bosnia, Kosovo, Africa, and Iraq.

I am so grateful to TUI!”

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The Secret Life of

Waldo F. Dumbsquat

by Don Hall, ’76

we

last saw our hero, he was investigating a

heinous crime at the Blue Zoo

...

Waldo, senses tingling, hurried from the room without explanation. He skillfully avoided a disgruntled

“Are we searching for the lost ark or a crystal skull?” Regs queried his friend.

“Will we go to the temple of doom?” Wags chimed in.

“No to all your lame movie references. The Academy has lost

CQ by ducking into the latrine. Once hidden from view, the

the Big Picture and we need to find it. Otherwise, we will descend

puny freshman uttered the magic words “subprime mortgage rate.” Like an adjustable rate, the doolie instantly ballooned into

into chaos and darkness, becoming just another West Point.”

the huge figure of Colonel Waldo F. Dumbsquat, a man who

tours!” they chorused fearfully.

always rented. With confident strides, the officer made his way to the Supe’s office. Armed security forces roamed the area, stopping only to salute the colonel as he passed.

Pushing past grim-faced technicians fingerprinting the furniture, Colonel Dumbsquat found the Superintendent standing dejectedly behind his desk. The general looked up as the field officer entered the room.

Waldo and his friends unmarked their cards and sped out with a sense

of mission. Desperate times required desperate measures.

Three candy bars and a low calorie soft drink later, the band of brothers double-timed down the Bring Me Men Ramp and toward the Aero Lab. Unlocking the door, Waldo Dumbsquat led the others inside.

“Waldo, why are we here?” asked Regs as he looked around.

“Thank goodness you’re here, Dumbsquat. Someone has stolen it!

Only professionals could have pulled this off-this was no spirit stunt!”

“What was stolen, sir?” asked the colonel.

...

“I found a clue in the Sup’s office. Someone-probably the

thief-dropped the key to this building.”

Waldo heard some moaning in the wind tunnel. A blast of

“Good grief, man! They’ve taken a national treasure. The Academy has lost the Big Picture get it back!”

The doolies recoiled in horror. “A fate worse than death by

and you’re the only one who can

cold air chilled the cadets. Undaunted, the doolies cautiously

peered inside. Deep inside the tunnel appeared an apparition, dressed in tattered and grease smeared coveralls. The features of his face were hidden by shadows.

PART 2 It was a dark and stormy night.

“Who goes there?” challenged the mysterious man.

Somewhere a dog barked.

“It is I, Dumbsquat Waldo F 762693K.”

C/4C Waldo F. Dumbsquat burst into his dormitory room.

“What squadron are you with?

His startled roommates, Warren Heels and Regs Buch, jumped

“CS-37.”

up from their desk chairs. Waldo was startled by the freshmen jumping up from their chairs. It took a moment for everyone to

“Ah, you smacks are Smilers then,” acknowledged the

calm down.

“Are we going on a quest?” asked Warren.

“A what?”

“A quest?”

“Why do you ask?”

“You’re wearing a fedora and there’s a bull whip hooked to your quasi-official belt.”

Waldo tipped his hat to classmates. They had a genius for the obvious.

“We’re going on an adventure. Get your USAFA tee shirts and

ghostly figure.

Warren grinned- ah, smiled.

Regs ventured forward. “Who are you, sir?”

“I’m The Regular Crew Chief. And don’t call me ‘sir’—I worked for a living.”

Waldo stood in shock. “No one has ever seen the regular crew chief. We didn’t think you existed, kind of like Nino Baldachi or

early Recognition.”

The shadowy sergeant chuckled. “I’m as real as you are, Dumbsquat. If you want to locate the ‘large photograph’, you need to journey to Jack’s Valley. Ask for Jack.”

berets on and let’s ride!”

To be continued

56

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

...

58

Service Academy

Career Conference V.

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AUGUST 21-22, 2008

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SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

What is SACC? The SACC is the Service Academy Career Conference supported by the Associations of Graduates from the U.S. Air Force

Academy and the U.S. Military Academy, and Alumni Associations from the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Previous conferences have been attended by hundreds of companies and thousands of alumni. Go to www.sacc-jobfair.com for a list of companies attending, the complete schedule and the online registration form.

Where will the SACC be held?

The next SACC will be held at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel, 1400 Sixth Ave., Seattle Washington. Call (206) 621-9000 for reservations and ask for the SACC rate.

SACC Schedule of Events

Thursday, August 21 Interview Prep Seminar

6:30 p.m.

Friday, August 22 Registration

9:30 a.m.

SACC

9:30 a.m.

Lunch

12:30 p.m.

SACC

1:45 p.m.

-

-

-

-

-

8:30 p.m.

4:00 pm 12:30 p.m.

1:45 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

Saturday, August 23 Interviews only if directly scheduled between company recruiters and candidates; Companies will contact you directly regarding any on-site interviews during the SACC. Registration The SACC Candidate registration fee is $35. To register, submit a one-page resume (for recruiter's book) and pay online at

www.sacc-jobfair.com. This limited resume is designed to give the recruiters an indication of your capabilities. It is NOT the resume you should bring to hand out to the recruiters at the conference. Registration deadline for inclusion in the recruiter's book is August 8, 2008.

Next Scheduled SACC

San Antonio TX, November 20-21, 2008 For more information, contact Wayne Taylor at (719) 472-0300 or go online at www.sacc-jobfair.com.

•.

~SE:'

*

•

•

*

ItW“ arch 8th marked the 50th anniversary of the world's first I Vy A undergraduate astronautical engineering program. The ■

^ M Academy's Department of Astronautics celebrated the event

with a full day of activities with past and present faculty and staff,

cadets, graduates, and friends of the department.

Formed by order of Brigadier General Robert McDermott, the second Dean of Faculty of the Air Force Academy and USAFA’s first permanent

professor, the program was the world’s first undergraduate academic depart-

Astronautics I turns 50

By Col. Martin France, '81

Engineering Program ment

specifically devoted to astronautics instruction. McDermotts order

also established a year-long core course taken by all cadets, and ultimately

led to the first accredited undergraduate degree in astronautical engineering

offered in the United States.

Since 1958, hundreds of cadets have earned degrees in astronautical

engineering, engineering science, space operations, and systems engineering at the Academy. Moreover, every graduate of USAFA has completed at least one course in introductory astronautics. Astro majors have gone on to become astronauts, general officers, corporate CEOs, and senior government executives. Hundreds of

officers, NCOs, and civilians have also served

in the Astro Department as faculty and staff, responsible for the instruction,

research, and administration of many USAFA space-related programs.

The anniversary celebration began with breakfast and a short

reception in the dean’s Heritage Room in Fairchild Hall. Visitors were then invited to attend astronautics classes, tour lab facilities and see the FalconOPS satellite control facility, where cadets ‘fly’ FalconSAT-3,

launched a year ago from Cape Canaveral, Fla. Almost 50 guests were escorted by cadets to lunch in Mitchell Hall with the Cadet Wing, who gave the group a standing ovation when the

department’s anniversary was announced from the staff tower.

After lunch, the group met with the current permanent professor and head of the department, Col. Marty France, ’81, for a presentation and discussions on current department activities and plans for the future.

Included in the group were former department heads Brig. Gen. Bob Giffen, '65, and Col. Francis “Joe” Hale.

The day culminated in a gala dinner and celebration at Doolittle Hall,

supported by the Association of Graduates and the USAFA Endowment.

More than 200 enjoyed a social hour that included displays of cadetbuilt hardware like FalconSAT-2, sounding rockets, guidance systems, avionics, sensors, and antennas.

Dr. Tom Eller, '61, the first USAFA graduate to serve as an instructor and department head in Astro, recounted the Vietnam-era development

of a fire control system for AC-130 Spectre gunships. General Bob Giffen and Colonel (Ret.) Jack Anthony discussed the people who made the department a special place to work over the last five decades and the steps that led to the current FalconSAT, FalconLAUNCH, and FalconOPS capstone design courses. General White closed with

inspiring words for all in attendance.

By all accounts, the evening was a tremendous success. General Shelton fondly recalled, “It was fun being there for such an important milestone and you guys did a tremendous job putting it together.” Col. Anthony called it a

“Grand slam!” and Col Eller said, “I am confident that the next 50 years

will be even more spectacular, with a continuing stream of outstanding new

graduates and enhanced faculty flowing into the Air Force.” 9

y

...

.

x

CEO of the next Google?

Today, they just want to make it over the water. Tomorrow, the ethics,

leadership and determination they’ve learned here will guide every decision.

Leave a Legacy, include the Association of Graduates in your will or estate planning.

Association of Graduates UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY

h

For more information visit our Web site at www.usafa.org, click on “Giving” and then “Planned Giving, or contact Jeff Mielke,

’80, CSPG, at jeff.mielke@aogusafa.org or (719) 472-0300.

FYE

By ANN PATTON Academy Spirit

cademy cadets are no different from other college students. The first year can be a real shocker.

A new course, the First Year Experience begun this academic year on the Academy, is easing the transition from high school for four-degree cadets.

“Whether it’s planned or ad hoc from the moment they arrive on campus ALL college students have a first year experience,” said Dr. C. Taylor Barnes, Distinguished Visiting Professor and this year’s FYE director.

Fie added, “There is a serious gap between academic expectations and academic reality of our ,

entering cadets.”

Academy cadets face, among those issues, transitioning from the relative ease of high school to the rigors of a highly vigorous academic, military and athletic university environment. Doctor Barnes added many are unaware of their academic strengths and weaknesses, resulting in no real plan for personal improvement. First-year cadets may have weak time management and information literacy skills and lack strategies for success know-how. They may be overwhelmed by too much to do in too little time and have poor decision making skills.

The Air Force Academy is the only service academy thus far to have a formal core course address-

ing issues of incoming freshmen. Eighty faculty members, all volunteers, served as instructors for LYE 101, with 14 lessons, which ran from appointee orientation to Recognition.

Topics include academic fitness, computer literacy, one-on-one planning for academic success and individual needs, a learning styles inventory, time management and leveraging strengths and compensating for weaknesses.

60

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

The course also included an academic pep rally

He especially appreciated exploring what learn-

and final address from Dean of the Faculty Brig.

ing style fit him best, which is a visual or kines-

Gen. Dana Born, ’83.

thetic strategy.

“Freshman performance was the highest in

Cadet 4th Class Ben Brown, with CS-9 and a

several years,” Doctor Barnes said in comparing the performance of the Class of 2011 to Classes

Preparatory School graduate, said his Prep School background prepared him well, but he, too, appreci-

2008-10.

ated the course.

“It was the smaller things they reminded you of,”

He added other factors played into the success as

he said and pointed to time management as one

well. A total of 71 percent of cadets agreed or

strongly agreed FYE was relevant and useful. At the same time, 73 percent agreed or strongly agreed the course was a positive learning experience.

helpful area.

The take-away for faculty from cadets was positive.

“We learned that the more purposeful and inten-

Cadets rated lessons for time management,

tional we were in meeting freshmen needs, the greater

learning styles, information literacy and one on-

potential for student success,” Doctor Barnes said.

“Their enthusiasm for learning was invigorating. We faculty got that little extra spring in our step knowing that we might have had a small part in the Class of 201 Is successful performance.” IS

one

sessions with instructors.

Cadet 4th Class Ryan Wilkinson, Cadet Squadron

39, had an inkling of the challenges of cadet

life before entering, but not their intensity.

“I didn’t know how things will keep coming at

you,” he said. “It was constantly going.”

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2 0 0 8

61

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Job searches designed exclusively for service academy alumni SACC A Service Academy Career Conference hosted four times annually and designed to match our alumni

with employers interested in hiring service academy alumni.

JSAJE JSAJE for Alumni

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Joint Service Academy Jobs Electronically is an Web site designed to al-

low you to browse through job listings and contact employers. It contains a resume repository

for graduates who are in an active transition mode, and a job retriever for those who prefer to remain in a passive mode. JSAJE For the Employers

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JSAJE is also an exclusive job Web

site designed for companies in corporate America to advertise their career opportunities

directly to service academy alumni. Companies may also purchase access to a repository of resumes of graduates in an active transition mode.

iSABRD An online Service Academy Business Resource Directory with over 34,750 active profiles

from USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, and USNA. An excellent resource for advertising, career

networking, and building business connections.

Visit www.usafa.org for more information

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F

inal Tallies Air Force finished the 2007-08 season

with a 21-12-6 overall record. The Falcons won the Atlantic Hockey Association championship

and advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the second

straight season. Air Force finished third in the AHA with a

14-9-5 record. The Falcons were the third seed in the

AHA Tournament. AFA swept Bentley in the quarterfinals,

then defeated RIT in the semifinals before edging fifthseeded Mercyhurst, 5-4, in double overtime.

BACK-TO-BACK CHAMPIONS Air Force became the first team in Atlantic Hockey Association history to win back-to-back conference championships. The Falcons defeated RIT, 5-0, in the semifinals to record the first shutout and largest margin of victory ever in an AHA semifinal game. The Falcons then defeated

Mercyhurst, 5-4 in double overtime, in the second Iongest tournament game in league history. Including the AHA quarterfinal round, AFA outscored its opponents, 22-7, in the four games. Air Force and Boston College (Hockey East) are the only teams in the tournament this season to win consecutive league championships.

THE BIG DANCE Air Force made its second consecutive trip to the

NCAA Tournament and for the second consecutive time,

lost a one-goal game to one of the top teams in the nation.

In 2007, Air Force led Minnesota, the overall No. 1 seed in the tournament, 3-1, with just over eight minutes left.

The Gophers came back for a 4-3 win. This season saw the Falcons take Miami, the overall No. 2 seed in the tournament, into overtime, before seven

Photo by Dave Armer

falling, 3-2. AFA led 2-1 with

minutes left in the third period. Miami tied the

game on the power play and then won the game just under five minutes into the extra period.

UNBEATEN STREAK WAS LONGEST IN NATION

Hockey team finishes season

with 21-12-6 record AFA WON THE AHA TITLE AND ADVANCED TO THE

NCAA TOURNAMENT FOR THE

Prior to the loss in the NCAA Regional, Air Forces nine-game

unbeaten streak was the longest in the nation. The Falcons

and outscored its opponents by a combined score of 43-12. AFA won four of the games by shutout (7-0 at Mer-

were 8-0-1

cyhurst, 3-0 at Canisius, 5-0 vs. AIC and 5-0 vs. RIT). The streak was the longest in school history vs. Division I teams and the longest since the school-record 11 -game unbeaten streak in 1974-75. The five-game winning streak was the longest since last seasons six-gamer.

SLAP SHOTS *

Air Force’s nine-game unbeaten streak was the longest in

*

AFA outscored its opponents, 43-12, in during the streak

the nation (8-0-1)

SECOND STRAIGHT SEASON *

Since getting swept at Army, AFA was 9-2-2

*

AFA has won back-to-back AHA titles and earned con-

*

AFA is 0-2 all-time in the NCAA Tournament, losing to

secutive trips to the NCAA Tournament

BY USAFA ATHLETICS

Minnesota, 4-3, last season in Denver and Miami, 3-2 in 64

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

fei iJJ 1It fc'BBI *

overtime, this season in Worcester, Mass.

coach Frank Serratore has led the Falcons to consecutive winning

Frank Serratore has led Air Force to back-to-back winning

seasons

seasons

for the first time in 18 years

for the first time in his 11 years. It also marks the first time in 18 years (1988-89 and 1989-90) that Air Force has had

*

AFA’s 21 wins are the most Division I victories in school history

*

AFA has won a school record 40 games the last two years

(20 at home and 20 on the road)

THE AIR FORCE -NOT THE BUS FORCE

*

AFA has four players with 10 or more goals and seven play-

Over the last two years, Air Force has been the best road team in Atlantic Hockey. Air Force’s 10 Division I victories away

ers *

*

*

with 25 or more points

Greg Flynn was fifth in the nation in points by a defenseman with 31 points Brent Olson led the team with 18 goals and tied with Jeff Hajner for the team lead with 39 points.

Andrew Volkening played every minute in the nets in the

consecutive winning seasons.

from home (road and neutral) this season tie the school record set last season. AFA’s 20 Division I road wins are the most in

back-to-back years in school history. The 10 road wins are the second most in school history and the most since AFA won 11

road games in 1971-72 (mostly against non-Division I teams).

last 22 games. He was 10th in the nation in GAA at 2.08

*

and had a .911 saves percentage. Both marks set new

SEEING DOUBLE

school records. Volkening was selected as the team’s MVP

The last two seasons mark the two best years in 40 seasons of

AFA was eighth in the nation in scoring offense and 12th in

Air Force hockey. The Falcons have won back-to-back league

the nation in scoring defense

championships, played in consecutive NCAA Tournaments and have won a school record 40 games in two season. Of the 40 wins, 20 have come at home and 20 on the road.

WHO’S BACK

The top six scorers and 11 of the top 13 will return for the 2008-09 season. Also, the team’s top four defensemen and start-

MOST DIVISION I WINS BY CLASS

ing goaltender all return. Sophomore Andrew Volkening played

The Class of 2008 has won more Division I games in four

every minute in the second half of the season and set new school records with a 2.09 goals-against average and a .911 saves per-

years (65) than any other class in school history. The class won 14 in 2005, 11 in 2006, 19 in 2007 and 21 so far this

centage. Greg Flynn, a second-team all-conference defenseman, returns to lead the defensive corps along with returners Michael

season.

The Class of 2007 won 58 games. SS

Mayra, Brett Nylander and Brad Sellers. Those four defensemen did not miss a game during the season. Junior Brent Olson and

sophomore Jeff Hajner tied for the team lead with 38 points.

Flynn, who ranked fifth in the nation in scoring by a defenseman, had 31 points. Sophomore Matt Fairchild had 29, junior

Air Force stands pat on

policy for athletes

Josh Frider had 27 and freshman Derrick Burnett had 26. Air Force returns 84 percent of its goal scoring (109 of 130) and 80 percent of its points (294 of 366) from this past season.

Seniors with pro aspirations still have

BACK-TO-BACK RARE FEAT AT ACADEMY

By Jake Schaller, The Gazette

The Air Force hockey team became the first team in Academy

history

to win back-to-back conference

championships

pionships

years

This article was first published in The Gazette on May 2, 2008.

at the

Division I level in any sport. In fact, the two conference chamare

to serve two

the second most outright titles in AFA history.

The cross country team won the Western Athletic Conference

A

ir Force senior football players have to wait two years

before pursuing NFL careers, and it doesn’t look like that will change despite the publicity generated by

championship in 1992 and 1996 and the Mountain West title

the Detroit Lions’ selection of Army defensive back Caleb

in 2004. The football team tied for the WAC title in 1985 and

Campbell in last weekend’s NFL Draft.

Campbell—along with Army fullback Mike Viti and punter/kicker Owen Tolson, who signed free agent contracts with the Buffalo Bills and New York Giants, respectively— has benefited from Army’s “Alternative Service Option” program. It allows officers to spend their first two years of active duty service playing professionally and working parttime as recruiters for the Army. If they still are playing after two years, they can serve six years in the reserves in place of the final three years of their active-duty commitment.

Air Force and Navy are strictly following a Department of Defense policy issued last August and implemented Jan. 1 that states officers must serve two years of active duty before

1995 and won the championship outright in 1998.

AFA SET SCHOOL RECORD WITH 21 DIVISION I WINS Air Force’s 21 Division I wins this season are the most in school

history. The 21 wins are the third-most overall in school history.

The 1971-72 team won 25 games while the 1974-75 team won

24. The previous record for Division I wins was 19 set last season.

The 21 wins are the most in 11 years under Frank Serratore.

BACK-TO-BACK WINNING SEASONS Air Force clinched a winning season for the second consecufive season. The Falcons were 21-12-6 overall this season. Head

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE

2008

65

applying for excess leave or early release to pursue a professional sports career.

“Our guidance is clear based on the policy of the Department of Defense,” Air Force spokesman Capt.

Tom Wenz said. “The Army’s interpretation of the DoD policy is something that’s between the Army and the DoD and not for us to comment on.”

According to an e-mail from Lt. Col. Jonathan Withington, a press officer for the Department of Defense, “it is up to the Military Departments to interpret and apply that policy.”

Some have a problem with Army’s interpretation. Navy athletic director Chet Gladchuk told the

Annapolis Capital that “Army has redefined active

duty to include playing professional sports.”

Air Force academy officials declined comment through sports information director Troy Garnhart, who referred questions to Wenz. Garnhart said only that the academy wished Navy, Army and Air Force would follow the same rules regarding graduates playing pro sports.

Wenz said there were no plans for the Air Force to tweak its policy.

That means Air Force players with NFL dreams—such as senior linebackers John Rabold and Drew Fowler— will have to attempt to stay in shape and on the teams’ radars for two years. Last year, coach Troy Calhoun said players could use accrued leave time to attend preseason camps during their two years of active duty service. S

Stine earns Gymnastics’ MVP award By usafa Athletics he Air Force men’s gymnastics program

the men’s team, participated on four events in every

handed out its 2008 team awards at the

team

annual end-of-season banquet on April 30.

the NCAA National Qualifier as a vault specialist. He

Senior All-American Greg Stine was the top award-

winner, being named the Most Valuable Player. In addition, three other Falcons received recognition

posted the Falcons’ second-highest vault total and tied for the third-best pommel horse score. Boardman also excels academically, as he picked up his third consecu-

from head coach Kip Simons.

tive MPSF academic all-conference distinction.

T

competition this season. He also competed in

Stine concluded his career as the most decorated

Freshman Kipp Druecke was named the Falcons’

gymnast in Air Force men’s gymnastics history. Backed

Most Improved Gymnast. Druecke, a specialist on the

by top-eight finishes on the still rings and in the allaround at the NCAA Championships, Stine became the program’s first All-American since 1993 and the first-ever recipient of multiple NCAA honors. In addition, he set six of seven Academy records under the new scorwon two USAG national titles and earned ing system, five USAG All-America certificates. The recipient of the USAG Top Senior Award, Stine accounted for 29 first-place finishes and was named Gymnast of the Week numerous times by the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation and College Gymnastics Association.

Classmate Brian Boardman, last year’s most valuable player, received the team’s Hardest Worker Award. Boardman, a solid four-year competitor for

pommel horse, didn’t enter the team’s rotation until the Pacific Coast Classic, but quickly made his mark on that event.

Druecke’s score of 13.350 at the USAG Team

Championships is tied for the squad’s third-highest total of the season. He also advanced to the individual event finals at the USAG meet, where he finished eighth.

Despite missing the second half of the season with injury, Daniel Klimkowski was named the team’s Freshman of the Year. Klimkowski, an all-around

competitor, posted the squad’s second-best combined of the year. He led the team on the pommel horse until his injury. Klimkowski had strong showings on the road, assisting the Falcons in back-to-back victories at Army and Springfield. 19 score

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

Air Force’s DeBerry

among six inducted

By Jake Schaller, The Gazette Marathon Club members after the Boston Marathon. Top, L-R: C2C Brad Chronister, C1C Chris Stover, C1C Jake Hall, C4C

ormer Air

F

Force football coach Fisher DeBerry and

Dow Finsterwald, who served as director of golf at

Jesse Mortensen, C1C Joe Robinson and C2C Al Vasso.

The Broadmoor for almost 30 years, were inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame on April 7.

Cadets excel at

former Colorado coach Bill McCartney, produced 17 win-

Boston Marathon

wald won 12 times on the PGA Tour, including the 1958

Brandon Hough and C3C Vinny Gillmore. Bottom, L-R: C1C

DeBerry, who was inducted by longtime friend and

ning records in 23 seasons as the Falcons’ coach. FinsterPGA Championship.

Courtesy of USAFA Marathon Club

Also inducted at the 44th annual induction banquet were

Colorado Avalanche president Pierre Lacroix, 1972 Olympic

ight cadets from the Academy’s Marathon Team competed in the Boston Marathon on April 21, and placed 9 th place overall as a team. The team th outran West Point, who placed 35 and the Naval Academy, 31 The finish was their best performance to-date.

Despite losing a close race in the intra-Service Academy half marathon last fall, these cadets returned to Boston placing four team members before the first runner from either Service Academy team. Not only did the cadets defeat Army and Navy, but they also recorded

E

marathon gold medalist Frank Shorter, broadcaster Starr Yel-

land and Western State football coach Bill Noxon. 12

,

st

.

The following procedures have been

four of the five fastest marathon times in Air Force

arranged by the AOG for graduates to play golf at the Academy’s Eisenhower

Academy history.

Golf Course.

Each of the cadets trained extensively, spending six to ten hours

per week running, in addition to an already

busy schedule including classes, extracurricular activities,

Graduates with military ID: Call (719) 333-3456 for reservations.

and military training. Other hurdles the cadets overcame

included long runs in snowy and windy conditions and finding time to complete up to two 20-mile runs.

Cadets competing in the race ranged from 115 th to th 2,337 place, out of over 25,000 runners. Seven of the cadets finished the marathon with personal bests eight

Jesse Mortensen, Brad Chronister, Christ Stover, Joe Robinson, Al Vasso, Brandon Hough, Vinny Gillmore,

as

and Jake Hall all turned in a great race.

“It was one of the best opportunities we have had at

Non-retired, non-active duty graduate AOG members: The AOG is allocated

eight tee times per month. AOG graduate members who do not have a military ID card may reserve tee times by contacting the AOG customer service at (719) 472-0300. Graduates may schedule only one tee time per month.

the Academy to gain publicity, and it was great to be able to redeem ourselves against West Point and Annap-

Reunions and Homecoming: A

olis,” said team captain Cadet 1st Class Jesse Mortensen.

tournament will be scheduled by the

The most improved times were up to 15 minute decreases over the notoriously tough course of the race.

Times ranged from 2:36:15 to 3:09, with every time

exceeding the qualifying standard to allow the cadets to run the Boston Marathon again next spring. S CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

Academy and the AOG to accommodate graduates at a set fee for all players. This fee is independent of military status or golf course membership.

67

andise

Cadet T-Shirt 100% Pre-shrunk cotton. White with dark navy ringer collar and

sleeve cuff

$10.50

View all merchandise

offered by the AOG and shop online

Cadet Sweatshirt

Hoodies

24 hours a day at

92% cotton, 8% polyester. Light gray

MV Sport. 80% cotton, 20% polyester. "Air

www.usafa.org

with reflective lettering

$45.00

-

Zippered or Pullover

Force" applique across chest with "Academy"

embroidered beneath

$38.25

Prices shown are member prices.

Prices, styles and colors are

Stadium Blanket

Crewneck Sweatshirt

subject to change.

Pre-shrunk 80% cotton, 20% polyester.

MV Sport. 80% cotton, 20% polyester. "Air

54" x 84" Pro-Weave sweatshirt

Force" applique across chest with "Academy"

blanket. Air Force Academy and AFA

embroidered beneath

crest printed on blanket

$20.50

$34.00

2008 Ornament

Squadron Pins

Laser Engraved Pen Set

2007 Ornament

Coming Soon!

Pins match all current squadron patches and many previously used patches (Please specify $4.25 squadron)

Order Options: Up to 3 lines and 2 crests maximum on case;

Prop & Wings in front of USAFA and US flags in silver-tone.

Watch the AOG's

USAFA, AOG, or Class crest -if crest is available; name on the

Background is 24kt gold plated with Air Force Academy across

pen; and wood choice of Maple

the top and 2007 at the bottom

or

Rosewood. Please allow 4

weeks for delivery

$21.25

amid holly leaves.

Approx. 2.5" in diameter

$17.00

Web site at

www.usafa.org for more information.

AF/ AOG TOTE BAG

Expect Great Things

Return With Honor

Black, blue, and white

A historical documentary of the

Documentary recounting the

'Alumni', 'Falcons', or 'Parent'

tote with AF

insignia and AOG Crest. Large zippered

first fifty years of the U.S. Air

first-hand stories of American

across the

Force Academy. Available in

fighter pilots shot down over

Academy' across the bottom.

compartment with storage pockets. Size: 17.5 x 14x3, 400D polyester $10.25

DVD and VMS

North Vietnam and their time in

Each frame

We want to know

$12.75

captivity

...

-

DVD

License Plate Frames

$5.25

$21.25

Win a USAFA Sweatshirt

The Association of Graduates is considering new items for sale in our online store. This is your on what sort

top and 'Air Force

opportunity to

of merchandise you would like to see. Please fill out the form below with your

give your opinion suggestions and mail it to AOG Merchandise Feedback, 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy CO 80840-4402 us

Ail responses will be eligible for a random drawing on July 1 5, 2008. The winner will receive their choice of either a

zippered or crewneck sweatshirt.

Name:

Class Year Affiliation:

E-mail address or phone number:

Suggestions:

Thank you for your ideas and your help!

Link to Chapter Web sites at

www.usafa.org

Picnic at nearby Canyon Lake on June 14.

Area Chapter) Web site is up and running

See www.alamoaog.org for more details.

at

www.nyaog.com. Visit the site for all of

the latest information on chapter events in-

Arizona Chapter

eluding the 2008 West Point tailgate party,

Barb and Ron Marusiak, ’71, again gra-

host a fireworks/dessert/

ciously agreed beverages party at their house right on the Arizona Country Club golf course on July 4.

The fireworks and patriotic music are usually to

awesome. We

look forward to a nice turnout

Connecticut, chapter meetings,

and all kinds of local social and sporting events.

Golfers pay attention! The NYAOG

chapter is looking for golfers of all abilities to participate in the Inter-Academy Golf

of grads/spouses/friends. In October, our

Tournament this summer in Easton, Conn.

chapter will once again travel to San Diego

Please visit www.nyaog.com for more infermation as it becomes available.

for the USAFA-San Diego State football game on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 6:30 p.m. PT. If you are interested, please contact Tim

Northern California Chapter

Furst at Tim@FamiliesFurst.com.

The Northern California AOG is plan-

Gateway Chapter, St. Louis

e-mail for more details. Also, please con-

Outlook

Our new chapter officers are:

tact Susan at

President: Kirk McDonald, ’90, took over

have ideas for an event.

AcademyWomen Plan to attend the 5 th Annual Academy-

for Shea Long, ’88, at the end of last year, Vice President, Tim Souhrad, ’00, and

Orange County Chapter

Women Symposium on Oct. 17-19, at the

Secretary and Treasurer, Bob Panke, ’65.

The chapter is run by an ad hoc group of

Greater Cincinnati Chapter

Any interested grad is encouraged to join this committee by merely showing up at any scheduled meeting, or by calling anyone currently on the committee and volunteering. The Monthly Gather of Grads typically happens the second Tuesday of each month in the offices of Scott Jackson, ’70. Everyone is welcome.

News

ning a summer speaker event. Watch your

Women’s Memorial in Arlington, Va. On

Friday, Oct. 17, AcademyWomen will also host an all day Professional Development Workshop and Career Expo where you can consult with professional coaches and hear from panels of experts and successful leaders from a variety of industries. The Symwill include a variety of workshops, posium and panels speakers on topics ranging from war to networking and leadership. Check

oisusan@yahoo.com if you

grads we call the “Steering Committee.”

The chapter president in Cincinnati is

looking for creative ways to get the chapter kick-started

again. If anyone in the Cincinnati area wants to help out on this effort, please contact the AOG so we can put you in touch with him directly.

Houston Chapter

www.academywomen.org for more infer-

The chapter continues to meet monthly

Silver Falcons

mation and sign up as a member to receive

at the Marriott Westchase

The USAFA Football schedule has been

details on upcoming events.

Briar Park, in Houston. Area graduates are

released and a tentative date has been selected for the 2008 Silver Falcon Con-

AFA Society of North Carolina

encouraged to attend. If you are interested in attending and finding out about local chapter events, please contact Tom Solomon, ’69 at

vention. The dates are Sept. 17-21. On

tom@tomsolomon. com.

in Falcon Stadium at 2:00 p.m. This will

We meet, informally, on the third

Wednesday of each month at Players Retreat, 105 Oberlin Road in Raleigh.

No RSVP is required.

Hotel, at 2900

give us plenty of time to tailgate before the game. Like last year, lodging at the

The LA chapter is looking for volunteers

Rampart Lodge will be looked into. As usual, I’m asking for inputs to build this year’s agenda. Don’t forget that we will be

to assist in

Brig. Gen. Suzanne Vautrinot, ’82, will depart San Antonio for a new assignment in June and her replacement will be Maj.

Volunteers are welcome to take charge of

Commander. The chapter has had success

the Graduate Summer Picnic.

simple backyard food: hotdogs, hamburgers, chicken, chips, salad, and beverages.

The picnic will be held at the home of Cynthia and Will Cosby, ’69.

in gaining membership among younger/

grads as a result of a working group setup by the chapter. The next event on the chapter schedule is a Summer more recent

Saturday, Sept. 20, the Falcons host Utah

Los Angeles Chapter

Alamo Chapter

Gen. Mark Welsh, ’76, the AETC Vice

70

the Inter-Academy Golf Tournament this summer in

electing the president and vice president to serve for the next four

years. If any-

body is interested in these two positions, please let Kirk know. No updates from the field this time. Please take a moment

New York Metropolitan Area

to

Chapter

so we can

The NYAOG (New York Metropolitan

a

CHECKPOINTS, J UN 1' 2008

jot down what is going on in your lives all share. Until next time, have

great Air Force Day!

South Florida Chapter

members of the local Military Affairs Com-

and Drew’s experiences and insights from

Volunteers are still needed for the AFA

mittee and by Coach Fisher DeBerry and

a recent

4th of July picnic held at the Miami Coast

his wife LuAnn. The first event was the

Guard Station. Ted Kammire, ’73,

morning briefing. Lt. Col. Lance “Gipper” Bunch, ’92, Director of Operations for the 336 th Fighter Squadron of the 4 th Fighter Wing, gave the briefing. Lt. Col. Bunch provided a history of the 4 th FW dating to WWII through Korea, Vietnam,

Francisco Torres, ’78, and Scotty Scott,

’75, have committed to this patriotic event. We still need more. tact Ted Kammire at

Please con-

teddyaa@aol.com.

business trip to Iraq in support of the multi-national force. Drew provided facts and impressions that yielded a new

perspective on the situation and prospects for success there.

the Balkans and the Middle East. He then went into a detailed discussion of the recent

deployment

to

336 th’s

Afghanistan. Later

that day, six foursomes took to the links at a sunny but windy Three Eagles Golf Course for a friendly scramble. Winners were Ron

Patchett, ’60, John Graves, ’64, Clay WIsniewski, ’84, and “Chainsaw” McCullough.

That evening, the final event was a dinner

(complete with USAFA Form 0-96) held at «4 South Florida Chapter Chapter Meeting -

1.

2.

3.

4.

Heartland-Lemay Chapter enjoying a luncheon on at Drew Grant’s, ’81, home.

the SJAFB Officers Club. AOG CEO Gary

Howe, ’69, addressed the group and Coach Fisher DeBerry followed as the guest speaker.

Piedmont Chapter

Coach DeBerry spoke of his time at Air

The chapter hosted graduates of the

Force Academy and stressed its importance

USAFA, USMA, USNA, USCGA, and

in the development of leaders for the nation.

USMMA at the Very Light Jet Expo pre-

The Goldsboro Military Affairs Committee

sented by the Andrew M. Riolo, ’72, Law

donated four Nike AT Autograph footballs

Firm at the General Aviation Hangars at

that were raffled off at the event and signed

the Charlotte Airport on Mar. 7. Presenta-

Keep abreast of Air Force and USAFA topics

by Coach DeBerry. Just over $ 1,000 was raised for the Fisher DeBerry Foundation to support single parents.

very light jets in the aviation industry and

Keep the local community abreast of USAFA topics

Alamo Chapter

flown in for display were piloted by gradu-

The chapter had a very successful Found-

ates of USAFA and the

Celebrate Academy heritage

Provide graduates networking

tions were given concerning the future of

the affordability of very light jets to corporations and individuals. Many of the jets

ers

Day dinner on Apr. 5. Maj. Gen. Irv

graduates spoke on

the performance of their jets.

opportunities

Halter, ’77, 19th AF Commander, was the

5.

Interact with other service

Interact with other service academy

6.

academy graduates Give back to the community

guest speaker and gave a great rundown on the history and status of flying programs at

USAFA, the relationship between AETC

graduates.

and the Academy as it pertains to flying

Arizona Chapter

programs, and recent changes regarding

Our thanks to Diane Langmade, ’80, for

flight screening and introductory flying programs. We also had an excellent update

hosting the Super Bowl party. Everyone

from Jim Wheeler, ’64, Chairman of the

rable event. Also, many thanks to Carol

Board of Directors of the Association of

and Doug Pelton, ’74, for inviting our

Graduates. He covered current AOG activi-

chapter to their 4 annual pig roast held on Saturday, May 3.

7.

8.

Support the needs and objectives of the Academy Assist liaison officers and

recruit qualified candidates 9.

Assist parents clubs/cadets

ties, the Founders Day dinner at the Acad-

Goal 5

contributed to make this a fun and memo-

th

emy on Apr. 4, and the news that he and the AOG CEO are encouraging the forma-

Gateway Chapter

Goal 1

tion of new chapters and their willingness

The chapter participated in three events

Celebrate Academy Heritage

to make

this quarter. On Apr. 15, the USNA Alumni chapter hosted RADM Holloway,

chapter visits.

AFA Society of North Carolina On April 15, the society held a series of

Goal 2

Founders Day events at Seymour John-

Keep abreast ofAir Force and USAFA topics

son AFB in

Goldsboro, N.C. About 40

graduates participated in the events. Classes represented ranged from ’59 to ’07. Graduates were joined by spouses, cadet parents,

Heartland-Lemay Chapter On Feb. 26, several grads gathered at the

home of Drew Grant, ’81, to share lunch

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

Commander of Carrier Strike Group 12

(.Enterprise Strike Group) at the Downtown Missouri Athletic Club

and invited

membership to attend. On May 24, our chapter co-hosted our annual Memorial Ceremony at Jefferson Barracks Naour

71

tional Cemetery. Among the fallen airmen

of what is hoped will be many “Leader of

honored were Lt. Michael J. Blassie,

Character” awards. The first award was

’70, who was formerly buried in the Tomb

presented LaVista High School in Nebraska, a truly outstanding student-athlete-leader. The goals of the program are: (1) to recognize an outstanding student leader near the

American Administration” and covered a

end of their junior year and; (2) to raise

assessment

we

of the Unknown in Washington, DC. Fi-

nally, May 30, the annual St. Louis All Academies Golf Tournament was held at on

Crescent Farms Golf Club

tee off.

to

Gina Mancuso of Papillion

in February. The discussions focused on

“Space Challenges Facing the Next

wide range of topics, including civil and commercial as well as national security space issues. Following the forum, the

Northern California Chapter

the visibility of the Academy in that school

On Apr. 26, we all enjoyed a sunny bike

by displaying the award plaque during the

Space Group prepared and delivered an of the meeting for the conference organizers. By including cadets and faculty members (as well as repre-

ride through Napa Valley, followed by ca-

students senior year. Thanks goes to Ed

sentatives from other service academies)

maraderie, wine tasting, food, and music.

Yong, ’86, who led the way in establishing

in the forum, the event made a signifi-

this chapter activity and who donated a sig-

cant

North Texas Association

nificant amount of money to purchase the

the Academy.

Jim Wheeler, ’64, Chairman of the Board

plaque. Ed also provided a book on leadership given to Gina with a framed certificate.

the 50th anniversary of the USAFA As-

...

of Directors of the Association of Graduates

spoke at our April luncheon at Black

contribution to space education at

In conjunction with the celebration of

tronautics Department in March, Space

Group members, including Bob Giffen, ’65, Stan Rosen, ’69, and Roger Neeland, ’64, met at the Academy to review

Finn Restaurant.

many of USAFA’s space-related activities. In addition to attending classes and

presentations on the Astro Department’s excellent programs, including FalconSAT and FalconLAUNCH, we met with

leaders from other academic departments

and the Eisenhower Center. We

also had the opportunity to contact

Heartland-Lemay Chapter

-

First “Leader of Char-

acter” award presented to Gina Mancuso.

North Texas Chapter Jane and Bob Pavelko, ’68,

leaders of cadet space activities, and have been working with them to plan

-

ArtJohnson, '63, H. Ownby, ’69.

Affi

«ttUps

AcademyWomen In April, AcademyWomen hosted a fabulous Spring Summit at the New Mexico Military Institute. Speakers included Congresswoman Heather Wilson, ’82, and

North Texas Chapter

-

Lev Prichard, '89 (right),

with Friends of AF Basketball representative Rick

Pialet, 77.

72

lead to more effective allocation of donations

Academy space initiatives. Graduates interested in learning more about the Space Group can check out usafaspace.tripod.com to

Stan Rosen at (310) 642-4653.

’96. Stay connected through the Academy

We are expanding our use of ZoomieNation

Women quarterly newsletter Focus, which

as a

features inspiring stories, insights for

Group. Anyone interested in learning more

personal and professional development,

about our activities should check that site or

as

well as information on new initiatives.

Check www.academywomen.org for more receive details on upcoming events.

Alamo Chapter

Space Group

In March, some of the recent grads, along

Several members of the Space Group,

with their more senior counterparts, partici-

including Col Marty France, ’81, Lawrence Cooper, ’86, Pete Hays, ’79,

Heartland-Lemay Chapter On Mar. 4 the chapter presented the first

leadership of the AOG and the USAFA Endowment. Hopefully, these contacts will

or contact

Give back to the community

pated in a Flabitat for Humanity Day, which is one of the chapters ongoing projects.

tivities for USAFA space activities with the

Thunderbird pilot Nicole Malachowski,

information and sign up as a member to

Goal 6

special events for the fall.

While at the Academy, we also had a chance to review potential fundraising ac-

and Stan Rosen, ’69, attended a major

national forum conducted by the Academy’s Eisenhower Center for Space and Defense Studies in Washington D.C.

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

communication forum for the Space

www.usafaspace.tripod.com.

Once Vpon a Time

...

Remember all the great stories your classmates shared with one another at your last reunion? Share some of the most important memories of your life with the readers of Checkpoints magazine.

Checkpoints wants to publish your cadet experiences and stories of how your four years at the Academy affected your career and life.

Submit story between 500-2,000 words. Photos must be in “jpg” format, 300 dpi at 7 inches wide. E-mail to

editor@aogusafa.org. If

mailed, include a digital copy (photos will be scanned and returned) and mail to: 3116 Academy Dr., USAF Academy, CO 80840.

If you don't tell us, we don't know

...

Update your biographical information and ►

Receive up-to-date information on your reunion and alumni chapters

►

Ensure you receive the latest issue of Checkpoints magazine and AOG information

►

Keep in touch with the current events and activities at the Air Force Academy

►

Keep in touch with your classmates

visit the AOG Web site to update your bio today!

WWW.USafa.org

* As cadets and

graduates of the Academy, you hold integrity

in the highest regard. Your official

same

ring is created with that

integrity by Jostens, your partner in expressing pride

in the United States Air Force Academy.

iostens

eartfelt thanks

BY CAPT. CHRISTOPHER E. SCHLACHTER SR., 99

PHOTO BY KEN WRIGHT

I want to take graduates back to the article Not

to my

Forgotten, written by Richard S. Rauschkolb,

my wife, but what came out next changed my life forever. My commander then told me how my 22

’70, in the June 2007 issue of Checkpoints. In the article, Mr. Rauschkolb states that the $4.7M

grandmother, father, mother, brother, in-laws,

month old son drowned while visiting his grandpar-

Memorial Pavilion represents the AOG’s largest

ents in Colorado.

single gift to the Academy and the entire project has many messages every graduate, cadet and Academy friend can take pride in. He highlighted the importance of a peaceful resting place for Academy graduates who have gone before us. I wish to share my thoughts and experiences to

to

got the house in California, our bills, and her work squared away before I flew in next week. However,

reaffirm the substantial differences our contribu-

months of my son’s life. I soon got up off the floor

tions are making in graduates’ lives.

and realized that I needed to call my wife and com-

My story begins on May 12, 2007; one day after the building was dedicated at the Academy. I was deployed to Al Udeid AB, Qatar, and just came off

fort her, my in-laws, and my parents. After I spoke with my wife for a few minutes we were confronted

of the night shift. After four months of my AEF rotation I was only one week away from departing.

raced, my wife said she wanted to bury Christopher Jr. in the same place that his father wished to be

My first night of training my replacement went well.

As I walked my replacement through in-processing,

would begin the process of burying Christopher Jr.

I got the word that my commander wanted to speak with me. This wasn’t unusual because of our daily

My disbelief kicked in and I tried

explain to him how this must be an error. I knew that my son was visiting Colorado while my wife

this was no mistake and I soon lost control of my

body and realized that I had lost out on the final four

with where we wanted to bury our son. As my mind

buried. We both began to cry and I told her that I at the

Academy. On May 16, 2007, my wife and I,

along with hundreds of others held a memorial for

interaction. Because of the urgency of the message

Christopher Jr. at the Memorial Pavilion and laid

I pondered whether we lost an aircraft or if a report

him to rest in the cemetery where Holly and I will

wasn’t transmitted. In the very back of my mind I

also be buried alongside when the Lord calls.

wondered whether something had happened to a

The pain that I feel every day doesn’t go away, but

family member. As I entered his office he wanted to

the contribution that the AOG has had on my life

close the door, but I didn’t let him (not typical for a

won’t ever be forgotten. I want every graduate/cadet

captain

to do this to a

colonel, but something didn’t

to know that the

impact goes far beyond this lifetime

feel right). It was evident to me that this conversation

and I thank each and every person for being there for

wasn’t operations related and something wasn’t good.

us! I felt compelled to write this article and I hope

I looked at my commander and said, “Just tell me

that it can be published for others to see the impacts

this isn’t big.” In that split second, my mind flashed

of this great project.

CHECKPOINTS, JUNE 2008

75

but not forgotten Hoyt L. Prindle, Jr., ’60 Col. Hoyt L. Prindle Jr., USAFA Class of 1960, died peacefully at his

Tallahassee, Florida home July 28, 2007, after a long battle with cancer.

Hoyt was the first 1960 graduate from the Ninth Cadet Squadron to leave this world. He was a combat veteran with 138 combat missions flown during the Vietnam War. His mili-

tary decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with seven Oak Leaf Clusters, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, and Air Force Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster.

Hoyt was known as “Oogie” by his friends, a name given to him by his parents while he was still an infant. He was

born into an Air Force family and lived most of his entire life on Air Force bases

around the world. At the Academy he was

remembered as a fun person to be

always joking around. Steve Bishop knew Hoyt before they were canear,

dets, as their fathers were stationed at the same base at the same time.

Steve says that during his cadet days, Oogie turned into a “real guy.”

Hoyt was born Sept. 24, 1937, in Montgomery, Ala., and graduated from Columbia Military Academy in Columbia, Tenn., in 1955. After obtaining his master's degree in business administration from Harvard University inl969, he was assigned to Nakhon Phanom,

Thailand, where he flew 119 combat missions as forward air controller navigator in the C-123 aircraft. From 1971 to 1973 he served as the executive officer to the Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans at MAC Head-

quarters. In 1973 he became chief of Officer Career Development for the Military Airlift Command (MAC). He returned to rated duties in

1975, flying the C-5A aircraft at Travis AFB, Calif., where he was chief of the squadron operations center and squadron executive officer. In

April 1977, he was assigned to Headquarters 22nd Air Force to manage the 22nd's War Readiness Program. In 1978, Hoyt was assigned to NATO as special assistant to the Chief of Staff at Headquarters Allied Forces Southern Europe in Naples, Italy. From 1981 to 1983, he served as chief of the Personnel Division of the 438th ABG at McGuire AFB, N.J. In 1983, he became the Professor of Aerospace Studies at FSU. In

1986, he transferred to Eglin AFB as director of personnel for the Armament Division. He retired from the Air Force in 1990 after 30 years

of commissioned service.

Hoyt left behind a devoted and loving wife, Deloris; a son, Hoyt L Prindle III of Jacksonville, Fla.; two daughters, Cyndi Welding of

Vacaville, Calif., and Tina Brandon of Quincy, Fla. He was preceded in death by his father, Brig. Gen. Hoyt L. Prindle Sr. and his mother, who was lovingly known as "Mama Chris." (Bill Goodyear, ’60)

Francis K. “Kinney” Smith, ’62 Kinney Smith ful friend

-

God, Officer and Gentleman, and wonderborn in South Carolina Oct. 23, 1938, went to be with His -

a Man of

in the Protestant Cadet Choir and Chorale.

He also was part of an

exchange tour with the Mexican Air Force Academy.

In 1960 Kinney met his future wife, Nan Augenstein, as the result of a blind date arranged by classmate Bill Haugen and his future wife Sue. In our Polaris, the words by his picture say Kinney hoped for “a life of bliss with a little girl from North of the Mason-Dixon Line”. With Nan he surely got that.

After graduation and marriage to Nan in 1962, he started pilot training at Reese AFB in Lubbock, Texas, then moved to navigator training in Waco, Texas. Following electronic warfare school, he became an electronic warfare officer in the 28th

Bomb Wing at Ellsworth AFB, S.D. He

completed two B-52 “Arc Light” tours from Guam, Okinawa and Thailand.

He went back to Thailand flying the

EC-121 “Bat Cat”, tracking and tar-

geting trucks on the Ho Chi Minh trail.

Sponsored by the Academy English Department to Florida State, Kinney earned a Master of Arts. While on the

Academy faculty, Kinney taught several English courses before becoming head of the English Department at Kinney Smith the Academy Preparatory School. these During assignments Kinney and Nan were very active in their church with Kinney being ordained a deacon.

Over their 45 years together Nan’s smiles were quiet testimony to Kinney’s loving and caring qualities as a husband. Along the way Todd and Matt were born; thereafter Kinney had his hands full with junior hockey and T-ball. Today as men well raised, both sons are living testimony to Kinney’s love for them.

Returning to flying with the 55th Wing at Offutt AFB, Omaha, he flew from Alaska, Okinawa, Greece and England as a Raven crew commander in the RC-135V. Kinney and Nan both loved the outdoors; in Alaska Kinney traveled with the Ohmans to Denali Park where they all watched the moose calving season.

Selected as Headquarters Squadron Commander for Strategic Air Command staff, Kinney rode herd on generals and sergeants alike.

Returning to the world of electronic warfare and intelligence in 1982, he became Deputy and Acting Director of Programs at Electronic Security Command in San Antonio, overseeing intelligence and cryptanalysis budgets and resources for worldwide operations. Retiring in 1985, he was hired by Locus International. He taught English at San Antonio’s Palo Alto College and continued to play a leadership role in their church until becoming its administrator in 1990.

For the past ten years, Kinney and Nan have poured their lives into the Navajo nation, recruiting and organizing others to build churches, support pastors, run vacation Bible schools and minister to these

people they came to love. The Navajo considered Kinney a ‘brother.’

He and Nan decided to leave the Lone Star State in 2006 and moved to the pines of Woodland Park, Colorado.

There Kinney continued in

their new church, teaching and leading a prayer group.

Lord on Feb. 4, 2008, after a 16 year battle with chronic leukemia.

After two years at Clemson in Engineering, Kinney entered the Academy at Lowry Air Force Base with his 464 ‘original Red Tag’ classmates on June 27, 1958. A strong Christian example to his peers, Kinney and several others joined churches in Colorado Springs because of delays in completion of the Cadet Chapel. Doing double duty, he sang 76

For more current information about

graduate deaths, please visit the AOG web site. www.usafa.org

Kinney Smith was surely an “Angel Among Us”

—

one of those

David L. Dye, '65

people

who are always there for us, and who by their words and actions ex-

emplify those qualities of faith, love and charity that we all should strive for. Kinney was always a Southern Gentleman; when teased, Kinney would just tilt his head down a bit, and give a little grin. Kinney he was just fun to be was probably the nicest guy we have known

Dave Dye, Class of 1965 went to be with the Lord on March 10th 2008 after a short but courageous fight against pancreatic cancer.

Born in Liberty, Kentucky,

on

May 8th 1943, he spent most of his

childhood in Salem, Indiana. He gradu-

—

with.

ated from Salem High in 1961 as Vale-

Kinney would want you all to be sure you have received the gift of Christ that guided his life.

Man of God, Officer and Gentleman, wonderful friend Kinney, we will miss you. (Classmates Bill Haugen and Bo Ohman)

dictorian of his high school class.

As we write this, it is Easter time.

His parents had to tell him many times to turn out the lights, quit studying, and

-

go to bed. His dedication to academics and love of his country lead him to the Air Force Academy, where he graduated

JohnA.Nehring,'63

in 1965.

Upon graduation he went to Selma,

John Alan Nehring, 65, of Pagosa Springs, Colo., died unexpectedly from a pulmonary embolism on March 19th, 2008. John was born in Columbus, Ohio on April 8, 1942, the first child of Martin John and Gertrude Lydia Nehring. He grew up in Canon City where he excelled

Alabama to attend UPT at Craig AFB. After pilot training he was asked to return to Craig as an instructor

throughout

After his active duty, Dave served as a pilot in the A-37 at Grissom AFB. For 32 years Dave was an airline pilot for East-

school. He was a National Merit

Scholar, Eagle Scout, ROTC cadet, Dave Dye

football player, wrestler and sang in school choirs.

Throughout his life, learning and teaching were recurrent themes.

John graduated in the top 10 of his class at the United States Air Force

Academy, receiving his diploma from President Kennedy in 1963. He also obtained master’s degrees in economics from Georgetown University and business administration

ern

and United Airlines. He also acted

as a liaison for the Air Force

Academy for many years.

Dave provided guidance for many people in his life. He was an inspiration for many people in both their spiritual and everyday life.

He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and brother.

Dave leaves behind his wife, Ellen; children John, Joelle, Emily, and David; grandchildren Michael, Sara, Laura, Katie, Edward, and Jenna; and brother Barry. All that knew and loved him will miss him very much. (Barry Dye, Dave’s brother)

Robert N. Brost, '66

from UCCS. He served in the Air

John Nehring

pilot in the

T-38.

Force (active and Reserve) for 30

Robert N. (Bob) Brost was suddenly called to join the Lord on March

years, retiring with the rank of colonel. During the Vietnam War, he

29, 2008 after spending a wonderful day treating visiting family to some

of the attractions of north Texas.

served as an RF-4C Phantom pilot. John maintained a life-long rela-

tionship with the Academy, his classmates and with flying. He flew for enjoyment, as an instructor and as a member of the Civil Air Patrol.

friends at Christ Church, Plano, TX

At the time of his death, John was employed as an economics instructor at Embry-Riddle campuses in Albuquerque

As nearly always, Bob was enjoying life to the fullest by sharing his good fortune with others.

Bob’s life was memorialized by a large gathering of social and business

and Colorado

on

Springs. Earlier John had taught business and economics at Montana State University and the Air Force Academy. He also worked as a database programmer and analyst, primarily for companies in Atlanta and Albany, New York.

John made friends easily wherever he lived and relished the com-

April 3rd. Interment services were

held April 5th at the USAF Academy.

This service was attended by another

large gathering of family, friends and USAFA classmates.

Bob was born March 4th, 1944, in

pany of others over meals, at concerts, and outdoors. He was an avid outdoorsman and traveler who loved fly fishing, hiking, camping,

Fort Collins, Colo., the third son of

white-water boating and skiing. He passed on his appreciation for

preacher’s son, he moved several times in his youth but finished high

mountains, rivers, ski slopes and wilderness adventures to his children and, in the short time he knew them, his grandchildren.

He is survived by son Jonathan, and wife, Dana, of Helena, Montana; son Paul and wife, Sarah, of Wausau, Wisconsin; and daughter Sonja Skovlin and husband, Jay, of Hamilton, Montana; grandchildren Hans, Logan, Isaac, Keira, Annika and Jesse; brother Richard

Nehring and sister-in-law Brooke Bower of Colorado Springs; and sister Mary Jane Nehring of Vancouver, British Columbia.

A memorial service for John, with an honor guard from Peterson AFB, was held at Bethany Lutheran Church in Colorado Springs April 14th.

Cremation has taken place and a graveside service will be held June 20th at 1 p.m. at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery, located at Fort Harrison west of Helena. (Jon Nehring, John’s son)

Rev.

and Mrs.

Carl Brost.

school in Yankton, S.D.

As

a

He entered

USAFA in 1962 with his close friend

and neighbor Bill Godfrey. To have two entrants to USAFA in one year was quite an

accomplishment for

the small town of Yankton. Bob was a proud member of 7th squadron at the Academy for three years,

and 10th squadron during first class

year. He achieved the dean’s, commandants, and superintendent’s lists, and was head cadet manager of the varsity football team. Bob will be well remembered by his classmates for his animated story tell-

ing, unflagging good humor, and enduring friendships.

Bob graduated in 1966 and then completed pilot training at Reese AFB, Texas. During that period, he and his Colorado Springs sweet11

heart, Jean Totten, were married in September of 1967 in the USAFA

chapel.

Bob and Jean started their AF career at Little Rock AFB, Ark.

nam, he served for a couple of years at Reese AFB as an instructor pilot and then separated from the Air Force in 1975.

Bob

Remaining in Lubbock for the next couple of years, he earned an

served in Southeast Asia at CCK, Taiwan, with TDY duties in Vietnam.

MBA from Texas Tech in 1977 and then went to work for Bell Labs.

He returned to Little Rock as an instructor pilot. In 1971, Bob left ac-

After several years with Bell, he established his own consulting busi-

tive duty to pursue a career in architecture. Bob continued to serve in

ness as a career

where Bob checked out and was assigned C-130 pilot duties.

the Air National Guard and Reserve forces until 1987, when he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Bob completed a Masters Degree in Architecture from the University of Oklahoma in 1973. Bob and Jean moved to Dallas and from that time forward, Bob served in the architectural and commercial

project management professional. In addition to precious time spent with his family and church, Wally continued to fly as a private pilot and he enjoyed skiing, hiking, camping, and hunting.

In mid-2007, he was diagnosed with sarcoma and he underwent surgery in February 2008. With the cancer in an advanced state, he

real estate development fields. Bob specialized in total project man-

was unable to recover and died in his home on March 4, 2008.

agement of large warehouse and distribution center complexes for

a

He was

devout Christian, drawing on his faith until the end.

clients such as Panasonic and Nestle. Bob did this as both

His is survived by his sisters Priscilla, Martha, and Jane; wife, Emma;

employee of major development companies and as a self-employed consultant. The comments from professional associates accompanying their expression of condolences attest to Bob’s professional stature. He was highly respected.

Bob and Jean have two children, Kevin and Cynthia. Cynthia is married to Jeff Winters. They have given Bob and Jean two beautiful grandchildren who will miss their “Poppy”. Bob was, above all, about family and friends. He enjoyed a full life, doing the things he wanted to. This almost always included those he loved, from family gatherings at their treasured Colorado mountain cabin to small group Eurohe was an avid fly fishpean travel. Bob enjoyed some solitude too erman and a contented tractor driver while mowing their ranch’s acreage. Bob was a happy guy. He was always a positive influence in any group. He was a person that saw the “half full glass” and the one that said “it will all work out” in an unanticipated setback or less than pleasant event. People just liked to be friends with Bob. That is why he

children China, Joshua, Verity, and Ian; and grandchildren Fender,

overseas an

-

had so many. We will all miss him.

(HalBrost, brother, Class of1960; and Bill Godfrey, friend, Class of1966)

Walter D. Curtiss, ’68 It is with deep regret and sadness that we announce the passing of our

classmate Wally Curtiss. Wally was born in Findlay, Ohio on Oct.

21, 1945. He was the third of four children and his parents and sister siblings knew him at home as “WD.” He entered USAFA from Yuba City, Calif, in 1964 while his father was

assigned to Beale AFB. Shortly after arriving at the zoo, “WD” became Wally, and for all of us, that is the name that stuck during our time together on campus.

While he was at the Academy, Wally was an Astro major and was in 14th Squadron for two years, 12th Squadron for one year, and graduated DG from 27th Squadron, where he served as the Cadet Squadron Commander.

Upon graduation, he linked up Craig Baer, and

with Dick Covey,

Dale Oderman

as

roommates at

Purdue for a Master’s in Aero and

Seeking fun and adventure they weren’t cracking the books, Wally and his roommates chipped in on a small ski boat that they dragged up to mountain lakes on weekends for sport and relaxAstro.

when

ation.

After completing an accelerated Master’s program, Wally went to Williams AFB for pilot training and then into OV-lOs for a combat tour in Southeast Asia, where he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and 12 Air Medals for his heroism.

78

Following his stint in Viet

Anna, Caden, and Montgomery. Our prayers go out to family and friends for comfort that Wally is with his Lord and Savior. (Tim

Davidson, Dick Covey, Craig Baer, all ’68; and Skip Penny, 70)

William L. “Larry”Pigg, ’68 Dr. Larry Pigg, Class of 1968 passed away on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2007 at

University Hospital, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

He was 61 years

old.

Dr. Pigg was born on Feb. 13, 1946 in Florence, Alabama. He graduated

from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1968 and the Medical College of Georgia in 1977. He was an F-100 pilot in the U.S. Air Force.

He served as a resident at Char-

lotte Memorial Hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina, and practiced orthopedic surgery in Melbourne, Florida.

He then retired in Albuquerque.

Survivors include his daughter, Shannon Pigg, of Orlando, Florida; and his parents, Bill and Lil Pigg, of Warner Robins, Georgia.

Graveside services for Dr. Pigg were held

on

Dec.

20,

2007

at

Andersonville National Cemetery, Andersonville, Georgia. (From McCullough Funeral Home Website, Warner Robins, Ga.)

Scott A. Huddleson, ’74 On March 25th, 2008, Scott Huddleson went home to his heavenly Father. For over a year Scott had battled pancreatic cancer; enduring

surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy with grace and dignity. Although his physical body was destroyed by the disease, Scott is as alive today as he has ever been.

For those of us who knew Scott, we have asked ourselves repeatedly over the past year, “Why Scott, Lord? Why did you choose to take Scott at this time? He is too young to go now!” And the Lord’s answer from

Psalm 139 is, “Thine eyes have seen my unformed substance; and in

Thy book they are written, the days that were ordained for me, when as yet there was not one of them.” Although I may still not understand why, it was time for him to go home.

One of the earliest discussions I remember about the fundamen-

For more current information about

graduate deaths, please visit the AOG web site. www.usafa.org.

I

tals of the Christian life was an explanation by Scott on the concept of

’86er from CS-36.

eternal life from 1 John 5:13; “These things I have written to you who

through 1992

believe in the name of the Son of God in order that you may know that

War from the seat of his B-52.

-

.

I

They were stationed at Barksdale AFB from 1988 having seen the first combat of the first Persian Gulf

you have eternal life.” Scott explained that John’s description of eternal life is in the present tense. It doesn’t occur some time in the fu-

Returning from his overseas station from the war, Paul was determined to fulfill has other lifelong

ture, after our physical bodies have died, but rather, eternal life begins the moment someone believes

become a physician. So in 1992 Paul

dream to enter medical school and

said goodbye to his Air Force career

in Christ.

The Christian faith is one of para-

and started his civilian life as a stu-

doxes, such as love your enemies; do not judge others; and perhaps the in order to live, greatest paradox

dent at the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester,

Mass.

--

He graduated with high hon-

in 1996 and went to Lewiston,

you must die to self. The apostle Paul wrote to the Galatians, “I have been

Maine for his family practice resi-

crucified with Christ and it is no

dency.

longer I who live, but Christ lives in

Soon after, his first son, Colin, was born, to be followed two years later by a little brother, Liam. They were the joy in his life, and aside from work, his life was full of T-ball, Little League

ors

me.” It wasn’t that Paul had been crucified physically.

Paul had surren-

dered his life to Christ to be used for His purpose.

Scott placed his faith in Christ in high school at a Billy Graham cru-

Paul Benson

and soccer coaching.

After many

sade. As a result, his eternal life be-

years of watching his boys in a cold hockey rink, Paul donned skates and joined a men’s league to com-

gan, even though his physical life had not ended, and he died to himself, making himself available for

pare notes with his sons. He leaves with two goals to his credit in the short season he had.

Scott Huddleson

Christ to use.

For those of us who knew Scott, his sacrificial living

He is sadly missed by his mother, his brothers John and Charles, his

showed through in all he did.

sisters Kaye and Joanne, and the extended Benson family. And mostly

After graduation, Scott and I both chose the missile launch operations career field and went to F.E. Warren AFB in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

by his wife and two beloved boys.

We will always remember “Peabs” as the fun-loving, mischievous character that he was, a brilliant mind and a loving father.

Kate and the boys would like to extend a huge and humble “Thank

It was during those early years, when Scott and I shared an apartment

together that we got to know each other very well! I was not an

easy guy to share an apartment with, but Scott was tolerant and we grew to understand each other. Because of that tested friendship, I could be totally candid and honest with Scott

change! was.

--

what a refreshing

Friends like that are rare!

etery, in his last demonstration of humility, which was so typical of Scott, he was buried in a plain, unfinished pine coffin. Always one for conducting extensive research, Scott had gone to the Academy cem-

etery several weeks prior to pick the spot he wanted to be buried at and he found one close to the trees, which he loved so much.

I would not be truthful if I said I didn’t miss him.

I miss him very

Although the number of days ahead of us is unknown, there

is much for us to do and many to serve. I, too, will be called Home by my Father some day and when I go, I look forward to seeing my friend, Scott.

extended Air Force family that have sent well wishes, prayers and

offerings of help in this hard time.

Bless you all.

(Kate Benson, ’86)

Scott not only understood me, but he accepted me just as I

When we gathered on the morning of April 5th in the Academy cem-

much.

You” to all from the Chickenhawks and the Pink Panthers and our

Until we meet again.

Frank Eldred Mallette, the son of the late Frank and Mary Smalls Mallette, was born March 13, 1966 in Charleston, S.C. On Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2008, God called Frank home to his eternal rest. He was 41. Those who shared the

joys of his life and who will cherish his precious memories include his beloved wife, LaToya Bolling, and one devoted daughter, Jakira; his caring sisters Christine Mallette Legare Geraldine Mallette (Herbert), Johnson, Mary Ella, Hattie Mallette

(Ralph Tate, 74)

Paul M. Benson, ’86 Dr. Paul Benson, 43, passed away on Jan. 29, 2008.

Frank E. Mallette, ’87

He was born in

Revere, Mass, on Aug. 6, 1964. Paul grew up a North Shore boy in

Peabody, Mass, where he graduated from high school in 1982.

Through talent and skill he landed at the Air Force Academy with roughly 1,400 others on June 25, 1982 to start his Air Force career.

With the photographic memory of his, and sheer smarts, he easily made his way through four years at the Academy with the Chickenhawks of CS-16, becoming Squadron Commander one semester of his last year there. He had many great memories and made

lasting friendships with many of the great people that were part of the ’86 Chickenhawks.

From the Academy, he was stationed at Vance AFB for pilot training.

Hitting a roadblock with formation flying in T-38s, he continued on to Navigator training and eventually became an Electronic Warfare Of-

ficer for B-52s. On Jan. 2, 1988, he married Kate Schaeflem, a fellow

Brown, Wannetta Mallette Pratt (David), and Tonia; his uncles Willie Middleton, Mack Purifoy and Carl

Purifoy; his aunts Carrie Lee Mallette, Maggie Mallette White, Florence Smalls, Mildred Singleton-Anderson, Juanita Johnson, Paralee Harris, and Billie Newsom; his brothers-in-law Antonio Bolling, Andre Bolling, and

Ahmad Bolling; and a host of nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

Frank attended Liberty Hill and North Charleston Elementary Schools and graduated from Bonds Wilson High School in 1983. After graduating high school one year early with honors, he attended the Air Force Academy where he graduated from the 2nd Squadron with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. After graduation, he attended flight school and piloted the T-37, T-38, and C-141. After re79

tiring as a Captain and because of his love for flying, he pursued a career with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a special agent. Frank held progressively responsible positions within the Drug Enforcement Administration as Special Agent, Pilot, and East Central Area Supervisor Aviation Division in Dallas, Texas. While employed at DEA, he flew the ATR 42, Cessna 206, Cessna 210, Citation Bravo and Turbo Commander. Ele also co-piloted many other aircraft including helicopters.

Frank was joined in holy matrimony to LaToya Bolling on February 14, 1991 in Columbus, Mississippi. Together they have one daughter, Jakira. Frank was a wonderful, fun-loving, good natured and compassionate husband, brother and friend. His contagious laugh will be recalled by anyone who has met him.

-

Frank’s memorial service was held on Feb. 16, 2008 at Morse Street

Baptist Church, Denton, Texas where Frank served faithfully on the senior usher board. Frank was interred at the Dallas/Fort Worth Na-

tional Cemetery.

Air Force Academy classmates Carson Elmore and

Jeff McConie joined friends and family members to pay their respects.

(LaToya Bolling, his wife)

Carrie G. Pedersen (Loudermilk), '96 Carrie Gayle Pedersen, age 34, and her son Lucas were taken from

Jan. 6, 2008 in a tragic car crash in Memphis, Tenn. I lost my best friend and beautiful wife the world lost a loving mother, caring us on

with all who knew her.

She was the one always taking pictures, wanting to remember everyone she met and remember the experiences.

Carrie was a natural leader. As a section commander, MEO chief, MPF section chief and USAFE staff, she had a way with people. She

naturally cared about everyone she dealt with, good or bad. She had a special grace in most situations that I most certainly struggled with; she made it look easy when doing her job

--

because she cared.

She loved wearing the uniform and transferring to the Reserves as an ALO was the perfect job for her. It allowed her to deal with young kids that were excited about the Air Force and she used her demeanor to

counsel them about the Air Force and what it had to offer.

She gave generously of her time. While in Germany she was a youth mentor and headed up

the DEFY (drug education for youth) sum-

camp for Ramstein. She also coached basketball and soccer and volunteered in the community.

It brought her great joy inter-

mer

acting with so many people whether Airmen, friends or children; it her special gift.

Carrie’s greatest talent was being a mom. There is no other title she loved in this world; raising our children was her number one priority.

Everything in her life revolved around taking care of them. If it was a nice day outside, you could bet she was at the park or out in the yard playing with Ashley and Lucas. The kids always had something going on, for Carrie was never scared to take them along wherever she went

was

in life. Her children looked up to her and she looked up to them. She

--

daughter, little sister, friend to all who met her, and a patriot.

I first met Carrie at the Prep School when we were classmates.

loved spending time with family and her family kept her centered her entire life. She was the ultimate role model to all

It

wasn’t hard to remember her, not because there are so few women;

she was well, Carrie.

Being six foot tall helped, but if she talked to you for five minutes, she made you feel like your best friend. Her bright smile and warm heart would immedi-

ately disarm you. She loved meeting new people and making friends; the Academy was the right place for her to be, as she made friends with every-

body she met. Carrie had more drive than anybody I knew. While at the Academy, she loved basketball and

--

mother, daugh-

ter, sister and wife.

Carrie’s passion and love of life is present all around us. She loved the Lord and is with Him now, watching over Lucas in heaven and

Ashley here on earth.

She taught me so much in the way too short

time she touched my life.

Carrie and Lucas were laid to rest Jan. 16,

2008 at the Academy Cemetery.

Over 1,000 people came to the fu-

neral on a cold, snowy day...witness that she touched so many other lives in her short journey here on earth. She will be forever missed by everyone who knew her.

(James Pedersen, 96, her husband)

was a leader on the court as well as off.

People naturally looked up to her because of her caring attitude and relentless pursuit to be the best when she played. After she had back surgery her senior year she did not sit still. She continued to lead from the sidelines,

working hard enough to play in the last games of the season and graduated on time.

Carrie and I started dating the second semester of our junior year.

I’m not sure what started it, but my life was forever changed since that moment. There was always a crowd wherever she went because

she probably started it.

thing and everything.

She loved getting people together for any-

I’m sure many of our classmates went to the

Loudermilk house on weekends either invited or uninvited; it didn’t matter how many people would show up, there was always room for one more.

Her kindness was subtle, but defined her relationship

At press time we had learned of the deaths of the fol-

lowing graduates: Mr. Roscoe R. “Sonny” Roberts, Class of 1959, who died on March 20, 2008 in Virginia.

Lt. Col. (Ret) Peter F. Fazio, Class of 1965, who died on

May 11, 2008 in Lafayette, La. Col (Ret) Douglas S. Hawkins, Class of 1967, who died on April 21, 2008 in West Linn, Ore. Lt. Col. (Ret) Stanley W. Parks, Jr., Class of 1970, who

died on Jan. 15, 2007 in Dayton, Ohio.

Mr. Terrence R. Bench, Class of 1972, who died on

March 29, 2008 at Coral Springs, Fla.

Maj. (Ret) John M. Garrard, Class of 1973, who died on April 9, 2008 in Roxboro, N.C. Lt. Col. (Ret) Richard L. Alcorn, Class of 1974, who died on

April 11, 2008 in Marietta, Ga.

Mr. Steven E. Struck, Class of 1986, who died on May

7, 2008 in Foothills Ranch, Calif.

Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of

For more current information about

graduate deaths, please visit the AOG web site. www.usafa.org.

80

these graduates.

Glass

The ’59er contingent after the Founders’ Day Dinner. Standingfrom left are Max Miller, Curt Cook, Bob Beckel, Don Brooks, ATO Herm Gilster, Ed

Montgomery, Pete Todd, and Bob Browning. Kneeling: Charlie Meier, Jack Hundemer, and Brock Strom.

Dubrovnik and make more money from tourists. Their heavy industry is still

sitting there with the Serb shell holes in the buildings and no sign of activity.

“Bosnia is standing still with the sides not liking each other very much. Roads, etc. are in bad shape. Slovenia (only 10 days of war) is booming. Reminds me of Ireland with much high tech work. Slovakia: communism dies hard. Each restroom still has two attendants to take your 50 cents to pee.

“All of the Balkan countries have benefited greatly from UNESCO. They have rebuilt the entire old city of Dubrovnik, the Diocletian Palace in Split and the

famous ‘old bridge’ in Mostar, for instance.”

Dick went on to say that he and Jean were shortly thereafter departing for a

NEWS

trip with which he has finally come to grips. Their itinerary includes several stops in Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, DaNang, Hoi An, Hue, NhaTrang, Dalat and Ho Chi Minh City) and three days at AngkorWat in Cambodia. He pledged a trip report upon their return, Flak Williams provided an eyewitness report on recent drama both in Africa and Italy: “The attached picture was taken of MJ and me in a Maasai hut in Tanzania the last weekin December. We were in a safari and what an experience!

Pete Todd 1250

Big Valley Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80919-1015 H: (719) 531-5874

E-mail: petetodd@comcast.net

I’ll begin with a few local (U SAFA) items of more than local interest. First, congratulations to the Class of2008, the 50th (!) class to graduate from our Academy. The Class of 1959 wishes you every success in your careers and vietory in all of the battles that you will face in the years to come.

Second, the fifteenth annual National Character and Lead-

ership Symposium (NCLS) was held 20-24 February. The speaker for the Class of 1959 Leadership Lecture was Dr. Harvey Schiller, former USAF combat pilot, ex-Permanent Professor at USAFA and a businessman with wide experience in many facets of collegiate, professional and Olympic sports.

His well-received presentation focused on athletes whose Sabre Society Donors character led to making a difference for their teams and society. Our sponsorship of this lecture every year continues to produce quality learning experiences for the cadet wing and other attendees.

Our Class was appropriately recognized throughout the NCLS. Finally, the annual Founders’ Day dinner at the Academy on 4 April featured the installation of our classmate Bob Beckel as a Distinguished Graduate. It was actually a “make-up” for last year’s award that was postponed due to a phantom snowstorm. In acknowledging this honor, Bob spoke both well and briefly, to the great enjoyment of all attendees, including his classmates and friends featured in the accompanying photo.

I was fortunate enough to receive two mini-travelogues from a couple of our mobile classmates that I’ll share with you for your own trip planning.

Dick Carr wrote about their autumn trip to the Balkans: “Last September, we visited Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Slovenia and Slovakia for three weeks.

Most interesting. Each country has beautiful scenery, but all different. Same for the economies Croatia is 85% dependent on tourism (unsustainable). We saw whole valleys deserted with the farms fallow because the farmers go to -

-

‘‘Are we having anyfun yet?”

“Our itinerary took us into/out ofNairobi (Kenya) andwewere bussed to/

from Arusha (Tanzania), where we started our quest to see nature at its best.

We arrived back in Nairobi the evening of 29 December and were to fly out the next day (Sunday). The elections had been held on Thursday and normally the results are announced the next day with the swearing-in the following day.

Nothing had been made official by Sunday, but the results were supposed to be announced that morning. Because ofthe potential for demonstrations, not

many stores were open and the police/military were patrolling the streets.

“We got to the airport and watched the news conference that was supposed to announce the results, but first they read off some results not previously

made public. When the election board chairman read the last district results, all hell broke loose over claims of fraud, whereupon the news conference was canceled. We took off for home and shortly thereafter they made the results official. You know the rest of the story.

“Back home now. The trash situation in Napoli has made international news and you've heard about it. It is at least as bad as they say, but varies by area. I have not been into Napoli, but in the ‘suburbs’ the trash is piled along streets and corners several feet high. All sorts of protests with exits blocked to housing areas and off-ramps. The school nurse could not get into the area where she lives for two days, nor could her husband get out. The cause is that the Camorra (a mafia-like criminal organization) control the trash business and have filled the local land fill s with trash from the north, ergo no place to put the local trash except in the streets.

--

“But the situation varies by area. We live just outside the base and the contractor (with suspect ties) who owns the land and buildings on the base (the Navy

leases) has built a temporary facility for trash from the base and our village, so

relatively clean. The Navy and local officials are monitoring the situation from a health standpoint, but nothing definite and again, the problem is

we are

not as bad in all areas. The Navy has offered free lodging for those who can't get

home. Bob Oaks's “6-foot rule’ is now a 10-foot one.

“Last, but by no means least, you can add me the list of ’59ers who have experienced the prostate problem. My saga began last spring when my PSA reading, though still below the accepted upper level, showed a sharp increase and it was recommended that I take another test. This was done in September and again showed a sharp increase, but with low numbers. The hospital here does not have a urologist on staff, but there is one at the Navy base at Rota, Spain, who makes ‘house calls’ here every 3-4 months.

“I saw him in October and he recommended a biopsy, but that had to be done at Rota. MJ and I made a quick trip there in late October for the procedure. The results showed problems were developing. He outlined possible treatments and the two preferred were radiation and surgery. Radiation could not be done here and would take several weeks. Surgery could be done here and that is the direction we chose. I had the surgery when the doctor came back to town and he said all went well. I’ll have to wait a couple of months for another PSA test to see what happens next.” We’re pulling for you, Flak!

50th Reunion Reminder: 14-19 April 2009.

Thoughtfor the Quarter: Deja-Moo: The feeling that you've heard all this bull before.

A.J. (Rosie) Cler, Jr. 5423 Myrtle Wood

Sarasota, FL 34235-4624

prostate is gone, radiation is completed and I may have eight years of robust would just like to make a difference in schools, jobs and Ohio's energy situation,” wrote Jack Schira. “My wife Susan, 52, has reached a nice

health left

--

level in Scientific Applications International Corporation as Assistant VP in the

oil information systems business. My oldest two kids, Robin and Jay, are well established and have families of their own. Daughter Robin is in her 26th year teaching in Yorktown, VA, and son Jay must be one of the best software engineers in the US because they pay him big bucks in DC working on software for US Defense. Children from my current marriage, Sam (18), is attending Kettering Institute, and Christine is 15 and in the 9th grade at Brunswick High School she wants to go to USAFA if she enters in 2011, I'll be 77 when -

-

—

she graduates!”

Fourteen DC-60 stalwarts met on Founder’s Day, April 1st, 2008. A1 Johnson and Jerry De la Cruz brought everyone up to

date on MiniSki XVIII, and A1 said his new home in Camden, Maine is almost finished. Bill Taylor still helps the AF solve

Sabre Society Donors

Tactical Air problems. Bill Carnegie contemplates leaving New Jersey and living just outside Front Royal, VA; Bill now has two 300 games in his favorite pastime of bowling; and, his daughter will become the new Director of Simpson's TV show. After four years, Bob Badger has finished his fictional book (some characters resemble '60 classmates), is looking for a publisher, and he’s started book two. Mike (A) Clarke echoed Bill Taylor's words that the AF is in a “world of hurt. Ken Alnwick is working with the Navy on Maritime Domain Awareness, and coaching lacrosse. Tom Burke works on AF issues and problems ofthe aviation industry; Leon Goodson will vacation in Tennessee and Seattle and still rides his motorcycle. GJC Fries is recovering quite well from the hip surgery, has 11 grandkids, and his daughter married and went to Hawaii in May; while Bob and Lutzi Fischer will be heading on a cruise of the Caribbean this summer. ”

Phone: (941) 371-4843 E-mail: RCtherose@aol.com

Class Web Site: www.usafa.net/1960

the photo “The Earl of Van Inwegen with Lady Pat at The Classic Crew” Diego (US) Crew Classic on Mission Bay, CA,” wrote Van. “USAFA didn't have a team, Navy and Colorado did, and the University of Washington was the overall winner. Note my protest by wearing a golf tie!”

—

was “taken at the San

The Seattle Group met April 16,2008. George Luck was out of town, but Vic

Yoakum, Dennis O'Keefe, Jim O'Rourke, Chuck Diver and Nels Delisanti lunched in Kirkland, WA. Senior biker O'Keefe gave O'Rourke tips on staying

healthy while biking. Vic Yoakum talked ofhis cruises this year, with Hawaii his next port of call in June ’08; Diver was leaving for Michigan and O'Keefe had just returned from somewhere.

Friendly Fire. Brian and Carol Kaley’s winter condo is in Naples, FL, where Brian works four days a week at Habitat for Humanity pounding nails into affordable homes... “I have to attend the Air Force Association state meeting in Orlando which coincides with the Air & Space Symposium at Disney,” wrote Ted Stumm. “I wasn't paying attention and got appointed as the state VP for membership guess I need to get my hearing aids tuned up”... Ron and Connie Yates, Andi and Carole Biancur, George and Diana Pupich, John and Deane McCullough and Jim and J enny Glaza went to Hawaii in early February—Mac rented a house on the “Big Island”.. .CT and Brenda Douglass’ 16-year-old autistic son Daxis now “a busboy at Outback Steakhouse, after completing a three-day after-school training program. And, he’s just begun driver training ground school”. Bill and Kath Gillis also have teenage children: “Sebastian (15) was in Georgia mid-April with the Order of the Arrow (Boy Scouts), and later that month inducted into the Latin Honor Society! Cecelia (12) was in Orlando, FL with the Middle School Chorus Group, also enjoyed Universal Studio & Adventure Island”...Serious pain and stiff neck caused Phil Meinhardt to have surgery at Scripps Hospital in La Jolla to fuse discs 4,5 and 6 together.. .Visiting Barb and Bill Hales in Greer, SC were Les and Marty Querry and Bill Goodyear in March.

John Paul (“JP”) Browning and wife, Carole, “visited the Academy in Octoher (’07), when we attended a 356th Tactical Fighter Squadron reunion and then went to the AFA-Army football game,” wrote JR In the Naval Reserve for 20 years, JP is a retired Captain (USNR). They moved to Westfield, IN from -

“Just finished Fiesta here in San Antonio,” writes Les Hobgood. “It’s a 10day affair for real party animals, and I started with the Corvette Sock Hop on

Friday, Corvette Car Show Saturday and Corvette Bluebonnet Run Sunday.

Monday is the River Parade, Tuesday through Friday is ‘Night in Old San Antonio,’ where 10,000 of my very closest friends hold forth in a four-squareblock downtown and consume food and beer. The food is Mexican, French, German and Cowboy; the beer is good and cheap, since I work next to the beer booth. We bribe them with German Fiesta Medals to get free beer. I am co-

chairman of the booth, and although this responsibility weighs heavily on these shoulders, I deal with these pressures by consuming lots of beer. I got out

of rehab one week after the Fiesta ended!”

Norm Haller and Mike (A) Clarke visited Tampa for a meeting ofthe National Academies’ Standing Committee in support of the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) that Mike directs --1 drove up from Sarasota in April and met them at their Hyatt. Mike is director of the Air Force Studies Board of the National Academies and Director of two Standing Committees for the Intelligence Community and US Special Operations, while Norm’s a consultant to both of those august bodies (R: The better story might be about Mike’s wife, Nancy, who’s worked in the White House since ’78 as Chief Florist, and plans to write three books after she retires. Stay tuned.). During an afternoon over a wide-ranging span of topics, the discussion ascended to those in our Class

who went to MIT for their Masters’ Degrees: Mike Buchen, Norm Haller, Frank Mayberry and Jack Schira, who all attended MIT following graduation, and Mike Loh, who went 13 years later.

“I’m running for State Representative in the Ohio 69th District. At 70, the 82

-

Weatherford, TX, where JP retired from Lockheed-Martin/Ft. Worth. “The move to Indiana was based on kids and

grandkids. Our oldest son, Kirk, lives in Tulsa

with his two boys, and number two son, Craig, lived in Novi, MI, when we moved here. Our daughter Kerrie and her family moved from Oklahoma to Indiana where her husband took a position with Riley Children’s Hospital. We thought we were ‘splitting the difference’ with our move, but our son Craig then moved his family to Austin, TX to get out of the extreme cold weather.

Each of our kids has two boys and they range from five to 17 years of age (that makes six grandchildren). Carole and I maintain the lake house in Oklahoma. ”

County Stadium, and Jimmy Poole provided some dugout box seats. All had a great time. The Dogwoods and Azaleas were in full bloom, the weather was excellent, and the company unmatched. They plan to get some pictures on the class website and said, “Come see us next time. Y’all hear?”

Bob and Cathy Best continue to look forward to moving into their "Dream Home." Their original move-in date was set for Thanksgiving ’07, and after also missing two other move-in dates, they have their sights set on July 4th.

Bob says that it is really hard to describe the work ethic exhibited by their particular "Ozark Artisans”.

JackBrightspentagreatweekend in Flowery Branch, GA—the "Peachtree" gathering of’61ers. His last day there he went to Acworth, GA, to visit Col (Ret) Roger Graham, USAFA Class of ’63. Jack flew his first combat mission in the Vietnam War with Roger in 1968—and had not seen him since.

Dick Davis attended a party hosted by Dick and Sylvia Fairlamb Also attendingwere Pete and Patty Lane, Tom and Bonnie Williams, Phil Woods andhis girlfriend, Paul Dean and his wife, and Allan and Skeeter Blaisdell, plus two from the class of ’60: John Keunzel and Ed Nogar and their wives. It was good to see some of these guys for the first time in at least 15-16 years, as well as a very good party. Dick has now transferred to McKinney TX, since he has three children and eight grandchildren in Texas.

Kate and Lou Hablas just returned from a trip celebrating his 70th birthday, along with his only cousin, who was celebrating her 80 th. Theyflewto Honolulu, where they boarded Sabre Society a cruise ship, on which Donors they sailed for seven days and visited most of the Hawaiian Islands. Although they enjoyed the cruise, their flight schedule was too tight to allow them to visit Oahu's major attractions; therefore, they plan to return, just to visit those attractions.

Dean and Jo, and Wayne and Mary Jones spent the month ofApril" down under'' touring New Zealand and Australia by cruise ship, train, river boat, bus, subway, and foot. What beautiful countries and tremendous people! The birds and animals are so different, and they were especially impressed with the flying capabilities ofthe giant Albatross that followed their ship everywhere. Tasmania has some ofthe prettiest countryside they've seen anywhere. Dean and Jo stayed a few extra days to attend the International Convention of Forward Air Controllers in Canberra. It was a special occasion, since it incorporated the ANZAC Day celebration and long-delayed presentation of US Air Medals to Aussie FACs from the Vietnam War. It was the trip of a lifetime, for sure.

Lowell Jones and Hector Negroni said that attendees, besides themselves at the March DC luncheon included: Buckley, Dixon, Foster, Kohout, McDonough, Nunn, Rogers, and Stackhouse. They spent more time at this luncheon than most, covering many subjects, with the most time on some good .

Carole and JP with grandsons Dawson, 6, and Darren, 5).

Dave and Camille Sweigart visited Italy in April: “Both sets of Camille’s grand-

parents came through Ellis Island from Italy. We had an audience with the Pope inside the Vatican, visited Rome, Capri, Florence, Naples, Venice, Pompeii, Pisa, Milan and Switzerland. Even saw a poster of a political candidate with Camille’s maiden name of Scrafone.”

“We landed north of Tucson for our winter home in San Manuel, giving us access to wife, Peggy's, folks,” wrote Charlie Sands (with his Porsche 356). “We’ve been in Lexington, MO 16 years working on historic preservation, so I have numerous

opportunities to use my MA in archaeology and museum studies.

”

discussions about where and when to have a ’61 mini-reunion in the DC area.

Final Roll Call. Mary Ann Holt, wife of Steve Holt, died Jan. 6,2008 of lung cancer, and was interred at the National

Cemetery in Culpepper, VA.

(For our extended column, go to www.usafa.net/1960, and click “Class

News.”)

Earl N. “Nelson” O’Rear

50582 Stonington Drive

Granger, IN 46530-8243 H: (574) 273-2597 E-mail: enoandtjo@gmail.com Class Web Site: www.usafal961.org Mark and Ginger Anderson added to the list of those who have ventured to China. They spent 16 days, from the 10th through the 26th of April, and thor-

oughly enjoyed the tour. And despite the pollution, China is a great place to visit.

The Peachtree Class of’61 Graytags hosted a group of 23 classmates, spouses and significant others at Lake Lanier, GA, April 17-20. The hosts were Mike and Ginny Rawlins, Sam and Gwen Barazzone, Jerry and Dot Gill, and Johnny and Suzie Caughman. The Barazzone home was the center ofthe activities due to location and facilities. The home was previously owned by McDonalds Corp as an executive retreat. Attendees were the hosts, Jack Bright, Doug and Dee Cairns, Steve Ho and Lynn Funkhauser, Lowell and Sandy Jones, Frank and Patsy Kiszley, Jimmy and Susan Poole, Jim and Linda Rogers, and Bob and Winnie Wagner.

Thursday night was an early arrivals dinner followed by Friday golf on Lake Lanier Islands. Friday night was a dinner at UniversityYacht Club on Lake Lanier.

Saturday was another day of golfing, tennis, biking, card playing, visiting, drinking, and finished offwith a barbecue dinner by the lake. Bob Wagner organized a Sunday afternoon trip to watch the Braves and Dodgers game at Atlanta Fulton

They looked at information on the new National Harbor Resort and Convention Center, opening next month on a Potomac River site near the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. It is still in the state of major construction for the next several years, though. Another option was the Key Bridge Marriott which has many good pluses as well. Bill Foster said he would check on when the 2009 Navy game will be played in the DC area, and maybe they could make that workwith the reunion time also. Jimmy Poole indicated that the next Redneck Riviera Reunion would be 2010, at the earliest, so this event would not conflict. Jim Rogers, their host, gets the kudos for introducing them to their newly-found restaurant at the Westwood Country Club: private room, great food, and perfect service.

Lowell Jones said that the DC group also held a luncheon the end of April, after they heard that Art Kerr would be in town. They caught up on Art’s work as the "First Sergeant" (as he put it) for the University ofWashington. He was in DC in large meetings on how to run a university. The ’61 DC welcoming committee consisted of Lowell, John Kohout, Jack McDonough, and Hector Negroni. Lowell said that their discussions were far ranging. Hector sent a picture of the attendees. (See our web site.) Thanks to Jim Rogers for getting the Westwood Country Club to let them dine at their very fine restaurant. Their next luncheon maybe the end of May. The Bald Head Island community where John and Sheila May live, participated in the Wounded Warrior Program, supporting wounded Iraq veterans and their families. The whole community participated—from a real estate company, which put up the families in comfortable quarters, to the people running tours of the historic light house, to the pot luck dinner served at the community center. Sheila and John got to take one of the veterans fishing because John’s nowthe "Dean" ofthe Bald Head Island Fishing School. Fishing had not been good, and the weather was marginal. In what must have been an act of divine intervention, their veteran caught a nice flounder. Because of advances in the treatment of battle wounds, a larger fraction of those wounded will survive. As these veterans return to our communities, they and their families need help. The Wounded Warrior Program deserves our support.

Thom and Sharon Schutt flew to China on May 1 st with their daughter and her family, where they completed all the paperwork required to adopt twoyear-old Addie Jialin. They were in China for two weeks completing the process and doing some sightseeing (and shopping, of course).

Bob Smith said that Pat took a fall last year, which resulted in a double break to her

right arm. Although one break healed, the other did not. She has had 83

surgery to install a titanium plate to stabilize the arm, and she is recovering

well; however, the arm does not want to heal. Hopefully it will be healed by the time of their next cruise, scheduled for December.

Charlie Stebbins is now in his third year as Provost and Dean of the Faculty at the University of Charleston, still going strong. The big news in their family

is that Charlie Jr. is retiring from the Air Force this May. He and his family

intend to remain in the Colorado Springs area.

Terry Storm is up to his nostrils in AOG issues, serving on the Finance and CEO Search Committees. He attended the AFA hockey team NCAA tournament game near Boston, and watched a tough overtime loss. Carleen and Terry are taking a 12-day vacation trip to Italy at the end of May and will see the Cochranes on a northwest trip in July. In February, Susan Conley and Carleen Storm organized a reception and dinner at the Peterson AFB Officers Club in Colorado Springs for Earl Saunders and his new bride, Sondra, who were married in January. Earl and Sondra grew up together and reconnected at a high school reunion. The classmates who honored the newlyweds included Art Kerr, who flew in from Washington state for the occasion; Trel and Dick Coppock; Anne andTom Eller; Susan and Tom Conley; Jan and Randy Cubero; Erna and Wayne Haring; Peggy and Jim Hinkle; Jo and Dean Jones; Lynda and Charlie Neel; Joan and Worth McCue; Susan and Mike Quinlan; and Carleen and Terry Storm. Terry, Randy Cubero, and Mike Quinlan will be volunteering at the U.S. Senior Golf Open at the Broadmoor in August. Terry hopes to speak again to Arnold Palmer, who worked for and golfed with Terry's Dad while they were both in the Coast Guard in Cleveland.

Byron Theurer, a.k.a. Chicken Teriyaki, reports that the legendary kamikaze pilot recendy made history when, under the sponsorship of the Las Vegas Valley Soaring Association, he flew his new acquisition, a Schweizer 1-35 sailplane named Iron Butterfly. Butterfly, a 1977 model glider, had not flown for several years. He had previously sworn that he would never fly another Ttailed airplane, but when presented with this slippery insect, he knew he had to make an exception. Teriyaki, known to his many Ifiends as ‘CT’, commenced his first flight by making a flawless tailwheel-last takeoff, only momentarily dragging a wingtip. He concluded this masterful demonstration of airmanship by flying his own patented tailwheel-first landing, a little long perhaps, but still comfortably within the state of Nevada.

Jim Wilhelm wants everyone to knowthatdueto "outofsight" diesel prices, the old Blue Bus will not be making the trip to their daughter in Kentucky. Old Blue will be on station at the AFA football games for another year of tailgating!

Tom Wilson found outMaylstthat their grandson, Mick Powell," officially" declined his appointment to the USAFA Class of 2012. He decided to spend ayear of additional study in Germany and to reapply to the Academy for the Class of 2013. The extra year of growth and maturity will help him overall, and they are all confident he will be offered another appointment next year. Otherwise, Judy and Tom are doing well adjusting to retirement—and enjoying it thoroughly.

That may change, however, astheybeginamajorkitchenremodel.

graduate school at Florida State University, he was on the English faculty of the US Air Force Academy for three years and then was assigned as head of the Air Force Academy Preparatory School English Department for two years. After retiring from the Air Force in 1985 he was a technical analyst for Locus, Inc. for several years. He finished his working career as administrator for Churchill Baptist Church in San Antonio, retiring from that position in 2001.” I’m glad that we had a chance to see and chat with Kinney at the 45th Reunion. (Editor’s note: See also Gone ButNot Forgotten.)

Recently, there was a gathering of ski buffs in Utah in March at the invitation of the Class of 1960 to join their annual event. Jim Gallagher’s place was to be the Redtag rendezvous place. Dave Holt writes about it to Gail Peck. “Gail, Jim thanks you for your well-wishes. (I was at his house when he received your email) It all went fabulously well except only four RTBs -

-

made it. Jack Swonson was only able to ski two days; then on to another commitment. Da Rippa (Blaisdell) was there for,

I think four, then had to get back to CSprings to represent us on AOG stuff. So Jim and I did allwe could to make the

Redtag

presence count. The Class of'60 guys (about 15) were most gracious and made us feel a part of everything. The skiing was

absolutely perfect and a good time was had! I was a last

minute cancellee on the 45th due to the coinciding of the Reunion with sudden notice of our "baby" son's Reserve unit

Sabre Society Donors

deployment to Iraq. Obviously I was more eager than others to be there for a reunion. But I want to put in a plug for next year. Frequent gatherings are better as we lose our friends and this is definitely an outstanding reason for getting together. So I hope all the skiers will put this on their calendar for next year most likely, same time same place. And a public great big thank you to Jim Gallagher for hosting the RTB side of this event and to Andy Biancur, '60, for setting it up. Seey'all next March. Dave” Thanks, Dave. I’ll put in a plug for more frequent reunions or gatherings. I mentioned it at the 40th. But didn’t get -

much of a response. Think it over. Let me know.

I like this one from George Lyddane: “Hi all. Jumped in pool with cell phone.

Not a good idea. Now need everyone's number. Please have mercy. George” I couldn’t wait to publish that. George, I hope you gotyour phone numbers. Get a waterproof phone or drain your pool. Cheers!

This from Randy Schamberger “Just to let you know that the 45th Reunion DVD orders generated a net profit of $270 after expenses which I forwarded to our Class Fund. Many thanks to all who ordered the DVDs. I got some very .

very nice compliments which made the effort very worthwhile. Haven't had any complaints yet. (I assume everyone has had a chance to watch them).

Nothing much else happening here except for the typical aches and pains of old age. After two months off for a torn hamstring, I'm finally back on the tennis courts. Someone mentioned on the RedTag net about John McCain’s age. That' s when the stark reality hit that we' re not too far behind him!

However, we won’t let age interfere with having a good time. Bob and Julie Davey' s party on 20 April 2008 had a few Redtags present. ”

John W. “Jack” Jamba 4 Judy Court

Satellite Beach, FL 32937 H: (321) 777-5520 0: (321) 861-6279

Cell: (321) 432-1370 E-Mail: jwjamba@aol.com

Hi Redtags,

It’s May and another Space Shuttle is being prepped for launch at the end of the month. Plans continue for the new launch system to replace the Space Shuttle. Many people have already started on contract work for the new launch

system. Many people will be looking for new and exciting things to do as their

employment at Kennedy Space Center comes to an end. For me I will probably be retired by then and starting the new phase of my life.

First I’m sorry to announce Kinney Smith’s death. He had been fighting a long battle with leukemia and lost it on Feb 4th 2008. His wife and two sons were

able to be with him and he was visited by Bill and Sue Haugen and Bo and Nancy Ohman. Bo had sent an email a few days before alerting us to the seriousness of Kinney’s condition. Here is part ofthe obituary that appeared in the Gazette in Colorado Springs.

“Francis Kinney (Kin) Smith, Lieutenant Colonel United States Air Force (Retired), went to be with Christ his Savior on February 4,2008. Bom October

23,1938 in Avondale, NC, he is the son ofthe lateWilliam Duke and Ruth Cantrell Smith. He is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Nan Marie Augenstein

Crouched: Julie Davey, Pat Hale, and Penny Gooch. Standing: Mike Quinton, Dick Johnson, Roger Rhoades, Bob Davey, Bob Connolly, MaryHolbrow, Roger

Smith, Ella (Roger's ex), DaveBockleman, Larry Gooch, Willmore Holbrow, Charlie Hale, Judy Quinton, and Pat Connolly.

It was a very happy party. Wish I could have been there.

However, the Redtags in my neighborhood got together on March 29 to join with Fred and Helen Hendryx visiting from Ohio.

Smith; two sons, Todd C. Smith and wife Marcia of Omaha, NE, and Matthew T. Smith and wife Lisa of Santa Clarita, CA; two sisters, Suzanne S. Smith of

Charleston, SC, and Laura Edwards of Newberry, SC; five grandchildren and

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY!

several nieces and nephews. Colonel Smith graduated from Blackville, SC,

YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND

High School in 1956 and attended Clemson University for two years before winning an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy, where he was graduated in 1962. He married Nan two days after graduating. His Air Force career spanned twenty-three years and included a variety of assign-

WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED.

ments. He flew almost two hundred missions in the Viet Nam conflict. After

84

CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

March listed the various options the Cup Committee is considering and will be

presented/ discussed during the 45th Reunion Business Meeting.

One final word about the reunion; I have been thinking about those classmates who have not shown up at one of these every-five-year affairs. Some, I am sure, have never been back to the Academy since June 1963. Here is a suggestion for you: if you know one of these classmates and you are able to contact them, make a call or write a note and ask them to come to Colorado this

October. Who knows, maybe they are just waiting for one of us to let them know it is important to us to get back together again.

In the picture standingfrom left are Caroline Jamba, Willie Gray, Nancy Gray, Ralph Conlan, Fred Hendryx and Bunky Reeves. Seated are JackJamba, PatConlan, Helen Hendryx and Connie Reeves.

As usual we solved the country’s problems for the next year. And it took less

than two hours.

And this in from Gail Peck. “Hal Rhodes and his friend Diane had dinner with Carol and me last night and we really enjoyed the visit and catchup. They are on a great road trip around the country. Was really nice to see him and meet her

--

a

Bill Wecker suggested we might be interested in a new charitable foundation supporting the Academy called USAFA Endowment Inc. Do take a look by going towww.usafaendowment.org. You will be impressed. Bill is on the Foundation Board of Directors as the Treasurer and serves on the Board along with our classmates John M. Fox and William H. Simpson. Your comments are welcome.

As reported last time Doug Hardgrave celebrated his 70th Birthday at what obviously was a three-day bash in Atlanta with some of his many friends. The whole thing kicked off on Thursday night, March 13th, with a dinner for the out-of-towners at a local restaurant. Friday was a golf outing followed by dinner and Saturday night was the party! Doug was clearly very gratified with the turnout—great friends and family he says. The precedent is set and now Doug is looking forward to many classmates’ 70th birthday celebrations.

lovely lady. Hal and I called Warren Robbins on the phone and had a

great chat with Robbie. He continues to struggle with the issue of strokes and worry about strokes. He was 100% lucid on the phone and he told me he can walk OK with a cane as long as the distance wasn't too great.

I know he would love to here from any of you so inclined to call him. He splits time between Phoenix and the Seattle area. He is now in Seattle. Phone num-

bers I have are: 253 838-3624 and cell 602 516-6279. Not sure which number I called last night. Robbie's son Kurt answered the phone. Regards to all RTBs.” I guess that about wraps it up. Have a great summer. GO Redtags!

Norman I.

(Skip) Lee

63119 E. Cat Claw Lane

Tucson, AZ 85739-2058 Home: (520) 825-7980 Cell: (520) 241-3498 E-mail: 54wrs@msn.com

We recently learned from the AOG that our classmate Col (Ret) John A Nehring died unexpectedly from a pulmonary embolism on Wednesday, March 19 th, 2008. Services forjohnwere held in Colorado Spring on 14 April at the Bethany Lutheran Church. Jim Gaston, Drue Deberry, Jimmie Buder, Denny King, Jim Hauser and Ev Vaughn represented the Class of 1963 at the service. The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to any Air Force Academy related endeavor or the Disabled American Veterans: DAY PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, Ohio 45250-0301. You can also go to www.DAVorg. Condolences may be sent to his family in care of his son, Mr.

JonathanW Nehring, at917 9thAve, Helena, Montana 59601 In the March edition of Checkpoints, the AOG reported our

classmate, James A Manuel, died on August 2nd, 2005. Bill Ball tells me that this information came to the AOG because

Sabre Society Donors

of their returned mail. To date they have had no luck contacting the family. So, we may be able to help through the “Class News.” If any of you may have known him well enough to help clear the air, confirm his death, and write a Gone but Not Forgotten for a Checkpoints article it would be much appreciated. The reunion committee, according to Bill, is planning to turn Jim’s cup at the reunion using the information the AOG has if it proves correct.

And, speaking of the reunion, our 45th Reunion progress can be followed on either the Class Web Site (www.usafa63.org/) or the AOG Web Site (www.usafa.org). If you haven’t yet made arrangements for Colorado Springs in October do not delay! Now is the time. For hotel reservations at the Colorado Springs Marriott, contact the hotel on-line (thru the AOG Web Site) or telephone Michel Chiroux at (719)268-4215. Don’t forget to let them knowyou are with the USAFA ’63 Reunion to receive the negotiated $119 room rate (the same rate applies for three days prior and three days subsequent to the reunion dates of 1 -5 October). Also, and this is important, keep watch at the AOG Web Site for reunion event sign-up. Formal sign up for reunion activities will not begin before 1 June. This will include ordering merchandise, purchasing football and tailgate tickets, paying golf tournament fees, dining with the cadets at MitchellHall and diningwiththe class on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. Everything will be noted and paid for on line. Not Internet you say?

Well, contact Corrie Grubbs at the AOG (719)472-0300, ext 105 and she will mail the necessary forms.

Drue Deberry continues to look for inputs and ideas regarding a class gift.

More likely it will be something we identify before or during our 45th reunion and would have in place by our 50th. Part of a class gift could be an endowment for the Cups. Diff’s message included with the reunion mailing sent in

Zoomies partying with Doug: From leftin thefront row are Fred Frostic and Bud Gilligan. Row 2: Ed Pickens, Doug, and GarySaban. Row 3: Dave Skilling,

Jim Hannam, and Dick Guild. Row 4: Hank Hoffman, and JeffHeal.

Lucky Ekman sent a note written in longhand via the US Postal Service telling Kaye had while vacationing at Ed Reisdorfs Los Cabos Golf Resort. Lucky says Ed has created something unique, even for Cabo San Lucas. It’s a great place to vacation, even if you’ve parked your golf clubs, as I did long ago. We’d go back in a heartbeat, for the desert beauty, the resort ambiance, and the whale-watching. In fact, we’re plotting how we might get the whole family there during whale calving season next year. But the best part was spending time with Ed who happened to be there, supervising his us about the wonderful time he and “

domain the week we were there, TDY from his permanent home in Scottsdale.”

Ed and Lucky in Cabo.

Bob Mazet hosted Art Johnson for an evening in late April. Art was in Phoenix, visiting a relative during his annual spring tour of the USA from his home outside Dallas. He stayed with Bob one night and they went out to dinner with Ed Reisdorf and Tom Derieg. In March, Bob and Ralph Wetterhahn were both guest speakers at the annual C.J.A.A. (Classic Jet Association of America) Convention for owners ofjetwarbirds theweekend ofMarch 13-15, at Rutland AFB, NM. Bob spoke to the group Friday evening and showed 50 minutes of film (now on DVD) that he brought back from his second combat tour at Ubon, in the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing. Bob says the “Wolf Pack” was under the command ofRobin Olds when he first arrived. Ralph spoke Saturday evening about

Robin Olds for about 10 minutes and then about his adventures as an aircraft

85

archeologist and accident investigator.

Robin Olds is and will always be a favorite subject of many of our classmates but especially, since his death last June. Even I, an old multi-engine guy, loved Robin’s announcement, when commanding the 8th, he proclaimed that “Peace is not our profession. He once tried to explain to me that the peace symbol worn by hippies was derived from the Nuclear Safety Symbol. I believe it. In mid-April emails were flying around talking about a project proposal involving Robin and possibly funded by the Class of 1963. The proposal calls for the construction and display of a replica of an alleged Robin Olds "Break In Case ofWar" glass case purportedly found in the hallsofthe Pentagon. The idea was introduced and is being investigated by Gary West and Joe Lee Burns. According to Joe Lee, the idea is Gary’s; Joe Lee is just the messenger. He wrote that “the project has to be top drawer. He wants to do a life-sized wax figure of Robin, probably sitting in a plain chair like an alert facility, dressed in flight suit, boots, G-suit, survival vest, harness, gloves, overseas hat and mustache, completely encased in glass, with "Break...." sign and small mallet or ax. It would be placed in the Alumni Hall (or another suitable location) at the Zoo. To close, Chuck Bush’s talented daughter, Bettina, will be performing for the Cadet Wing on the 21st of May. Bettina expressed an interest in doing a Benefit Concert at USALA, with proceeds going to minority Cadet Recruitment. She will perform at Cadet Lestival scheduled in the late afternoon and evening of the 21st, in the Spirit Hill area. ”

Troll Time Doug Jenkins (always helping out his poor Scribe who lives in the news-starved hills of northern Alabama) sent a report of the Old Trolls January get-together in Castle Rock. They met at the Rockyard Brewery and, “as usual, we didn’t solve many of the world’s problems, but we had a great time of fellowship together.” I guess the “rockyard” is an appropriate place for -

a

gathering ofTrolls.

”

Ok, that is it for this time. Please take care of your reunion arrangements as

quickly as you can. We are looking forward to seeing you in October.

Bob Hovde

206 Walker Ave.

Huntsville, AL 35801

(H) (256) 532-3923 (M) (256) 348-9794 bob@hovde.us

Founders’ Day- Doug Jenkins reported that ’64 had a great evening together at Founders Day in April. The Class of '64 had more attendees than any other

class

-

due, in large part to the fact that a big part of the evening was to honor

Ed Mechenbier as a Distinguished Graduate. After a gracious introduction by Wally Wolniewicz, Ed accepted the award with equal graciousness, saying that as Air Force Academy graduates we aren’t “better,” but we are “different.”

During the evening, the group gathered for the picture below. In the back row from left are Jay Kelley, Hap Burnham, BJ Cooney, Ed Mechenbier, Fred Gregory, Pete LoPresti and Rod Wells. Front Row: Terry Isaacson, Thad Wolfe, Jim Wheeler and Wally Wolniewicz. Not pictured is Doug Jenkins, who was in the slightly out-of-focus picture that he sent in. ‘Sorry, Doug.

Trolls: Doug Jenkins, Bob Beverly, FredMalmstrom, RodWells, Bruce Fister, Howie Cohen, Jim Hermanson, Jerry Butler, and Tomjobin trying to lookserious in a brewery.

AOG News

-

For those of you who don’t check your email except for when

you’re visiting your grandkids, Pete LoPresti is the ’64 representative to the Class Advisory Senate that was founded to help the AOG Board of Directors find the right path forward (after the last election). Pete has sent out emails asking for input. Ifyou didn’t get the email, let him know. Ifyou don’t have a computer, try going to the library and logging on to www.usafa.org and reading about the Class Advisory Senate.

In the meantime, a non-governance issue has grown over fund raising. The issue isn’t really whether the AOG should raise funds (both for itself and for the Academy), but how they should work with other foundations that raise funds for the Academy. While you’re at the library trying to get onto a

46 Sabre Society Donors

computer, you might want to log on to www.usafaendowment.org and read about the newUSAFA Endowment, Inc., that was established last December.

The Endowment is funded by an annuity established by its founders. (You’ll recognize many of the Directors’ names.) The idea is that all of a donor’s funds will go directly to whatever Academy activity the donor directs. The Endowment doesn’t have to take a small cut to fund operations. At this point the Endowment is focused on large donations and has raised several million dollars for the Academy. Needless to say, the AOG Board of Directors hasn’t figured out how to approach this tar baby. This one could get interesting It involves $$$. If you have an opinion, you might want to talk to Pete or one of the ’64 AOG Directors (Jim Wheeler or Fred Gregory).

Mall of Heroes The Mall of Heroes and the statue of Karl Richter will be dedicated on May 27th. Sandy and I will be there and hope to see many of you for this important dedication. Since I haven’t gone to a graduation for (...) years, and I have a friend whose daughter is graduating this year, we decided -

-

to go to the graduation, also.

Sad News Fred Gregory’s wife, Barbara, passed away in early May after an extended illness. Barbara opened her house everyyear to the class for the D.C. -

mini-reunions. Everyone will miss her

This issue may get out before Graduation. If so, I hope I see some of you there.

If not, I hope I saw some of you there!

Rick Zurbrugg 2929 Gavin Place Founders Day: Think ofall the penguins that had to die...!

The Tony Chronicles

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Just after the last Checkpoints article went in, Tony

Covais had to get surgery for a tumor. This was a tense time, because Tony had a

previous bout with leukemia. Luckily, the tumor was a benign fat nodule and the doctors think they got all of it. According to Don Graham, the doctors “were able to use the band-aid surgical procedure in lieu of a major cut. This means that there will be minimal scarring. Looks like Tony can once again wear his thong!

Once again, Don (now that he has a computer, he communicates!) emailed with the Subject line: Who’re Going to be Great Grandparents?” And his answer “NOT ME, BOB! -1 just got an e-mail from Tony and Barb Covais. Yes, they are going to be Great Grandparents in June! How is that possible? Didn't we just throw our hats into the air last week? Where has the time gone? Anyway, Barb writes that their oldest Granddaughter, Ryane (and husband Josh), are expecting their baby, Molly, in June. So I was wondering, has anyone else in our class reached this point that you know of? Or does Tony have the record so far?”

This is a very good question and due to a rapid onset of old-guy memory, I can’t remember if anyone has claimed to be a great grandparent; yet. I’m not sure it’s relevant to those of us who are but youngsters in the class, but a good question nevertheless. Are there any other Great Grandparents out there in “

-

'64-Land-and when did you reach this memorable milestone?

86

Duluth, GA 30096

(770)476-4437 E-mail: ezurb@bellsouth.net

Please take just a moment to remember our classmate and friend, Dave Dye, who transitioned to eternity on March 1 Oth of this year after a brief illness. An obituary, written by his brother, Barry, and his frequent roommate and pal, Art Beamon, who visited Dave shortly before he passed, should appear in this issue. (Editor’s note: The obituary written by Barry appears in the Gone But Not Forgotten section ofthis magazine.) Who could ever forget that photo of Dave in the Life magazine coverage of our doolie summer (I’ll send it to you if you want. Thanks to Bill Cole for keeping it all these

years) and Dave’s famous fender bender one block from picking up his new wheels our First Class year—he took it all in

Sabre Society

Donors stride. All of us from 21st Squadron and those who knew Dave well will miss him a lot.

Craig Waterstraat: “... I retired from Lockheed Martin on 31 January and my

wife (Sally) and I are now residing in a condominium complex overlooking

Ryan Denny 1635 Mary Todd Lane O’Fallon, IL 62269 H: (618) 624-4255 W: (314) 232-5117

E-mail:

ryanden@aol.com

Greetings, Redtags! We’ll start with the sad news—Bob Brost passed away suddenly at his home in the Dallas area in earlyApril. Those of us who knew him remember Bob as one of the all-time good guys. We were at Reese AFB together and then flewC- 130s at the same time, but always at different bases.

It doesn’t seem like 40 years ago. There was a memorial service for Bob in

Dallas and another at the Academy—both were well attended by our classmates. After the service at the Academy, Randy Jayne wrote “Bob was in 21st guys, 40th reunion, Nov. 2005. Front row seated: Dave Dye, Art Beamon,

JoeKolek, Bill Cole; Back row standing: Earle Monroe, John White, Jim Wilson, Bart Holaday, Mike Tedesco.

Hillsborough Bay in Tampa, FL. You could say we're relaxing, enjoying life, taking care of elderly parents, planning to see more of our grandchildren, and traveling to parts of the world we haven't yet visited.” Right On, Craig.

Michael J. Lynch: Check Six Consultants, LLC, Scottsdale, Arizona. Scribe’s comment: Clearly the best name ever conceived for a consultant.

Jim Soulek: “... I'm partially retired in Park City, UT. We have two daughters and three grandkids and my wife and I met because of skiing, so we like it a lot

Seagram’s Seven our first three years and in 1 Oth when we were firsties with Bill Godfrey, his high school classmate from Yankton, SD. Other classmates and 7th Sq colleagues—Bill Eubank, Larry Lundholm, Bill Hamm, and Larry Sidwell were in Dallas the day before for the funeral service. Jean Brost, her daughter Cynthia and son Kevin were very appreciative. What a tragic, sudden, and completely unexpected loss of one of our most engaging, funny, and outstanding classmates! Bob was an aviator, architect, golfer, fly fisherman, granddad.. .he will be missed.”

here. Town is full of Linda and Jims and we have made some great new friends.

Soulek & Associates, Park City, Utah.”

John Gritsavage: “Nice to hear you ran into an old friend of mine. How did you run into him? Back in our senior year in high school we went to a Marine recruiter and joined the Marines together. But I got released from that commitment by an appointment to the AF Academy. He went his way, I went mine, and we haven't seen each other since. I'm happy mine didn't end up (like most Marines in those days) in a bunker or Vietnamese rice paddy with an M -14 but in a ‘comfy’ F-4 with a 20mm cannon and a bunk in the BOQ instead. Sometimes, one hits it lucky, I guess! It's interesting Bill Cole can still do 16 pull-ups from a ‘dead hang’. I think I can still manage the ‘dead hang’ part. *sigh*” Thanks John, great to hear your well developed sense of humor is still intact.

Marc Sabin: “I retired from Boeing after 16 years (RR Davies retired not too long ago as well from Boeing, and John Justice still works there). We bought a home in Colorado Springs (6.5 miles from the south gate) in an area called Mountain Shadows. It is on the northwest side of town backs up to Pike National Forest. We think it is a great party and guest house so welcome mat is out for company.” Sounds like nirvana, Marc, Thanks!

Earle Monroe: “Marcia and I are off to Alaska this week (driving). Buy Chevron stock... we' 11 give you plenty of business!”

Jini Short: “Mike is in Germany for two weeks doing Austere Challenge exercise.”

Jim Turinetti: (web site for my book please visit) www.kaiserhelmets.com.

Way to go Jimbo! Scribe’s question: Who else out there in the Class of 1965 has written a book or has one yet to write? Considering the diversity and depth of our experiences, I‘ll bet quite a few. Remember that 500-word theme due every Sunday night in your instructor’s mail box at the library? Mike Tedesco would reluctandy read mine and, although he could not make specific comments or corrections, suggested that it was unlikely that I would ever learn to use a comma correctly, and he was right.

A Word ofThanks: Just a word of gratitude to all of you who put up with my solicitation of support for Venture Capital meets American Idol (the YouBetheVC.com competition). It was a wild, exciting and massively educational (many hoops to negotiate) ride to the top 20 finalists, but, alas, no sabbatical in Cambridge this summer. As a result of the competition, my approach to the endless upward spiral of health care costs got substantial public expo--

—

sure and many new

possibilities to promulgate the business model have emerged for me to pursue. I promise that you have not heard the last of Medical-Literacy.com. It’s hardly an original concept: “Man’s Flight Through Life is Sustained by the Power of His Knowledge.” Coupled with Bart’s teaching that “People respond to incentives—the rest (of economics) is just commentary.” (Steven Landsburg)—we can’t miss.

A delightful serendipity of this whole effort was re-establishing contact with many of you—always a joy, privilege and pleasure.

Be well, do good work, and keep in touch. As the Roc would say: Cheers!

Rick

Visit the AOG Web Site.

Merchandise, Gone But Not Forgotten and more!

www.usafa.org

Classmates at the USAFA Memorial Pavilion after Bob Brost’s memorial service. From left are Bob Gravelle, Randy Jayne, Jim Boney, Dick Oliver, Bill

Dunne, Jean Brost, Bill Godfrey, Larry Bagley, Vic Andrews, and Tom Brandon.

We’ve been reporting that Gary Palmer retired from the Dept of Energy to spend the rest of his life playing golf; but I kept getting emails from him that ended in “doe.gov”. Gary says that he played golf for about three months, until it got too cold and then he went back to work part time—just a couple of days a week and a little travel. Gary was organizing a group of Redtags to play in a Daedalian golf tournament, and promised to take a picture or two of the group to share with us.

Another of our DC area classmates, Dan Larson, is attempting to save an

historic airport in Laytonsville, MD. The airport had been owned and managed by the same family since about 1950, but the owner died and the airport is being sold to settle her estate. Dan and friends are concerned that the airport will turn into another DC housing area, so they are forming a corporation to manage the airport and a non-profit group to preserve the historical and educational aspects of it. They have energy and enthusiasm, and are looking for other aviation enthusiasts to help provide financial support.

Sabre Society Donors Connie Teetz has retired from Northrup Grumman in the DC area and has moved to North Carolina (better weather, housing prices, and golf). Vic Andrews also retired recently from his job as VP/General Manager for USAA, and is staying in Colorado Springs. Another retired classmate, Dennie Watson, has been spending his spare time as a volunteer at the Airline History Museum at the downtown KC airport. If you knowDennie, youknowhe loves to talk; so he really enjoys giving tours at the museum and making up stories about the old airliners. Dennie and wife, Shirley, are planning a trip to South America, where they are going to see the Amazon (the river, not the .com), the rain forests, and even the Galapagos Islands. The natives are going to love the airplane stories!

Larry Bagley sent us a picture of some “Evil Eight” classmates at the New Year’s Eve Bowl Game in Dallas (see next page).

Our Class President, Jim Murphy, sent an e-mail out to those of you who have email, but for those of you who haven’t caught up with your grandchildrenyet, I’ll summarize it here. The Association of Graduates now has a “Senate”, with a representative from each class. This group has been helping the AOG address some of the serious issues it has faced over the last couple of years and it will continue to grow in importance in the future. You can read

allaboutitatwww.usafa.org (Oh, Iforgot—you don’t have email). Jimhelped get this organization started and has been serving as our temporary Senator 87

passed away at home... April 21 (children) Scott, Keith, and Emily.. .were watching over their Dad... While we are filled with great sadness, we are also very relieved that he did not linger any longer, as this lung cancer is a cruel disease....” A memorial service was held on 28 Apr. Nancy and all Doug’s family, CS-11, and friends-we share your sad burden.

Ah, springtime, when a young man’s fancy turns to love. John Hollstein is living proof of that, except that “young” probably should be revised to “young at heart.John tied the knot recently, and here is picture of John and his bride, Parke. She passed muster with the CS- 07 crew and more importantly she did not run screaming to escape that gaggle. John and Parke the very best wishes for a long and happy future.

—

-

—

Evil Eight at Academy Bowl Game. Bud Kelley is the one in front; to his right is John Steele. In the row behind Bud, in blue with hat is Rich Cree; to his right is Dan Larson, then Tom Guenther, after that I am not sure.

until we could figure out how to elect one. We now have a process for this election. Anyone interested in running for this position should send Jim an email atjimpatt@charter.net (or a letter to him at 4 Brandenwood Dr, O’Fallon IL 62269), with a short statement saying why you want to run for this position.

We will hold an election on 18Nov2008—mostly by email. Ifyou don’t have email, you can send Jim or me your vote prior to that date. This will be a fairly informal process, but Jim has already gotten “buy in” from some of our classmates. The day that his email came out, John Fal replied “I’m in favor” and Mason Botts shot back “Second. All in favor say Aye”’. Since there were no “Nays”, that’s how we’re going to do it. Actually, Jim’s letter was much more eloquent than my Cliffs Notes version, so please give him your support or —

volunteer for the job.

Until next time... .Happy Landings!

Cadet and Mrs John Hollstein A voice from the past, with contemporary significance: Some of you may

remember Warren “Buddy” Smith, formerly of CS-15, who did not graduate with us, instead taking a rather circuitous route and eventually becoming an authority and an advocate for Tibetan independence, which has reached the

national radar screen again with the 2008 Olympics. Here is a brief update”...

I’m still at Radio Free Asia, Tibetan Service, so I’m deeply involved in following the recent events in Tibet. It’s gratifying to have my obscure issue get some attention for once but tragic in what the Chinese are doing to repress Tibetan resistance. Tibet is in a military lockdown while the Chinese investigate every Tibetan for their involvement in the demonstrations and riots. And China is publishing a flood of propaganda, denying any responsibility on their part, blaming the Dalai Lama and the CIA, and denying that any Tibetans were killed

Larry Wilson 13100 Pinehurst Ave. NE

Albuquerque, NM 87111 H: (505) 291-8949

in the repression (Tibetans claim over 200). So, it’s been exciting for awhile but I fear for the Tibetans who have to suffer Chinese repression and coercion to denounce the Dalai Lama. I’ve already started on a book about it, so that’ll keep

E-mail: Lwilsn628@aol.com

Greetings, one and all. It is springtime in New Mexico, and probably country-wide by now. After a winter of good snow, the Rio Grande is running high.

When I saddle up and ride along the river, I see that it is nearly overflowing its banks. I hope to canoe soon in the swollen river with a few adventurous friends.

Last time we did that, I ended up going over a waterfall into Class V rapids in a

me busy. I have another book coming out this month (China’s Tibet, published

by Rowman and Littlefield) but it doesn’t have anything about the recent events.”

Sort of makes our political party squabbles still hotly contested as I write this -pale by comparison.

Here are a few more photos from my repository of reunion pics: -

near-death adventure. But that is a tale best told over a brew. Or two.

Roy Miller passed through Albuquerque in March on his way to participate in his fourth annual USAFA National Character and Leadership Symposium.

He described that speaker Tennessee Congressman ZackWamp “... gave a great

speech and... used a quote that maybe familiar by John Stuart Mill: ‘War is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things. The decayed and degraded state of moral and patriotic feeling which thinks that nothing is worth war is much worse. The person who has nothing for which he is willing to fight, nothing which is more important than his own personal safety, is a miserable creature and has no chance of being free unless made and kept so by the exertions of better men than him.

Sabre Society Donors Before CongressmanWamp got to the second sentence, 2,000 cadets completed the entire quote out loud. Congressman Wamp said I guess you know that one.’ This event almost brought tears to my eyes.” Roy says that the forum is open to all grads. Registration is usually in early January. Cost is about $200 ($300 including lodging). I have not seen it ’

‘

CS-16 guys: Standing at party attention from the right are Stu Wood, Owen Ashbrook, Stump Sowada, and Dick Scott, brother-in-law ofDougFerguson (deceased).

advertised but I assume that there is info on the USAFA website for any who

might be interested.

Jim Shaw resurfaced

-

as CEO and Vice President for

Development of the

MSU Foundation of Morehead State University in Kentucky. He describes his new adventure as “... an

exciting opportunity to completely break away from the military environment and see how universities work.” While he has a new home on the local golf course, he describes that the Shaw anchor remains in Colorado, where they plan on a return in a fewyears.

From Roger Carleton early in the year: “Dick Miller and John Barhaugh spent the weekend with us to view the final USAFA home football game. Recall Dick's # 2 daughter got married the weekend of our 40th reunion so this was a

chance to see the Falcons in action. As it has been ever since they roomed together, the teasing never let up." Roger also passed on some tough news, that Doug Hawkins was diagnosed late in 2007 with lung cancer. Sadly, that communication was followed with a message from his wife, Nancy, that Doug:"...

Fiyjack (Jack Fry) trying on some paraphernalia.

strap-in and buckle-up for classmate update snippets from near and far.

Tom Griesser and Bob Muldrow in a friendly belly punching contest.

On a different note -1 and some others had contact with the widow of one -

of our class, who inquired if there is any Academy-sponsored means of contacting others in that situation... “to fill the empty space... There is no program within the association for graduates or spouses without partners to find a friend/ companion. Other institutions of higher learning provide such. I do not understand why the Academy does not have a program...” Establishing some link on the AOG website would seem a solution. No doubt there is some

Tim Davidson

Tony and Janet Eden Do Utah.

Tony Eden checked in from Peoria, AZ with a new left hip; news of son Chris (’94), now flying Air Force 2; and this great photo taken in September 2007 of wife, Janet, and him at the Canyonlands National Park in Utah.

Geoff Gorsuch is still with The Navigators and is building Christian ministries in Kazakhstan, Indonesia, and Singapore.

Brooke Bailey is still in Wilmington, NC, flying on a part-time basis for two different groups, and is logging flight time on a Cessna 421 and King Air turbo prop. When he’s not flying in the wild blue, Cathy and he enjoy lower-level jaunts through hill and dale in his new Corvette.

Bob and Thuy Johnston will be leaving the friendly environs ofVienna, VA to a new abode in North Carolina. Their big news for 2007 was the addition of a grandson to the family, born to their son Michael in Tallahassee.

Jim Seevers left his job with SAIC and joined a small company called Dare Mighty Things, which focuses on capacity building for faith-based and community organizations dedicated to serving youth and families in need. Pat’s and his new e-mail address is pseevers@verizon.net.

Bob Durham is now in charge of his own financial investment company and is really enjoying being his own boss. Wife, Cathy, is doing well and shows no recurrence of her bladder cancer. Bob and Cathy’s family circle grew by one with a fourth grandchild born to his youngest son, Ryan, in January.

Ken Bowers attempted retirement did not work out and he now plies his trade with RSI working with software for visuals in B-2 simulators. Ken and Khaki linked up with Doug and Lucy Batchelor and Frank and Brenda Moore

9712 Hidden Valley Road

for dinner after the Armed Forces Bowl in December.

downside to the Academy or AOG in some manner addressing this issue. If there are others of you in this individual’s situation, or who have feelings about

please communicate with your class reps and/or the AOG directly.

There continue to be issues related to the AOG and the separate foundation created by graduates specifically to receive and distribute hinds. Info on this is best communicated directly by our class reps. Additionally, some of you have been contacted by the fund raising group supporting the class gift we selected at the last reunion the Carillon project, funding Carillon bells “... that will help to honor our fallen classmates, along with all graduates, as they are interred at the Academy Cemetery. It will also leave a lasting remembrance of the Class of ’67, fulfilling our obligation to honor our fellow graduates for their the issue

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service to our nation in a dignihed setting.” When you receive the contact from

the class, or the AOG, or the fundraising group which has been contracted to support the Carillon project please look past any annoyance you might experience related to the fundraising group’s methods, and remember the higher purpose. And write a check, of whatever size you feel is appropriate.

With that -1 bid you all fond adieu, and sayonara, and auf wiedersehen, etc.

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’

Vienna, VA 22181-6094

(703) 255-5313 Fax: (703) 255-5377 E-mail: timd@erols.com

HELLO ’68! Reunion NOTAM #4: Our 40th Reunion is from 1 -4 October at the Embassy Suites in Colorado Springs. If you plan to attend, it would be a

capital idea to make your travel reservations before fuel costs and associated travel fares become even more expensive. Here’s what’s in store for those who attend: Blair Stewart and Pat McBride have agreed to provide music for Thursday and Friday nights. Pat is also creating a video using photos sent from all of us from “back-inthe-day.” (Note: If you have not sent your old photo (s) and a current photo to Pat Russell, care of the Class Website at www.usafa68.org, there is still time to do so.) Vince Rusinak and Bill Eckert are finalizing the ’68 merchandise selection

and Bill Sasz and his gourmet team have finalized the food

Sabre Society

Donors selection with prices being $32, $40, and $45 per person for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights. There will be a Forward Air Controller (FAC) Memorial Dedication on Friday who, among many others, will honor our classmate FACs lack Duffy, Ted Hallenbeck, Paul Jackson, John Ryder, and Grant Uhls. The Class will provide buses for those who wish to attend the dedication ceremony. The game against Navy will be on Saturday. For late-breaking reunion news, check the Class Website.

For those in the greater Washington, D.C. area, we have tentatively planned our next '68 East Coast Reunion at Ed and Karen Eberhart’s home on

July 12th.

Locals and out-of-towners are welcome, but if planning to attend please send an RSVP that I can pass along to Ed. If you will be arriving from out-of-town and will need a place to stay, please contact me and I will assist in lodging accommodations with a classmate in the local area.

SCRIBE’S MAILBOX SPIDER GOES ON WEIGHT WATCHERS! Many thanks to classmates and spouses for the bounty of cards and newsletters received during the 2007 end-of-year holidays! My mailbox spider is now overweight, but grateful for the sumptuous feast!! In an attempt to pass along as much news as the Checkpoints Editor will allow before our 40th reunion, please

Jim Madsen and kids: From left are Josh (26), Jim (Old), andSky (16).

Jim Madsen is enjoying life after the Airlines and went on trips with his family to Israel, Spain, Argentina, Denver, and New York City in 2007.

Mike Boots is now working international business for Raytheon. His job has taken him to Romania, Pakistan, and Turkey during the past year. Cheryl and he are justifiably proud oftheir daughter Jennifer, who graduated with a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Colorado.

Du Mrosla is flying Ultras with a company called Netjets and upgraded to Captain in May 2007. Margie and he caught the travel bug and ventured to Maui, the UK, and Poland.

DJ Mrosla is enjoying retired life and plays racquetball at Travis AFB three to four times a week. Highlights for 2007 were a Polish wedding in Minnesota and his 45th high school reunion.

Maurice Ecung is in his 20th year of official retirement from the Air Force, but stays amply busy with his writing, speaking, and working with USAFA re-

cruiting and Rotary International. Wife (a.k.a., Doctor) Antonia is now in her sixth year as Dean of Porterville College.

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Tony Marshall is adjusting to life after the Airlines and is contemplating reapplying since the age limit was raised from 60 to 65. He keeps busy doing substitute teaching and volunteer work.

in many cities you know). Nels brought an iPod loaded with tunes, and served

(playing 18 with Brian and his songs is a pleasure you should all hope to experience; teeing off to the Stones, putting to Smokey Robinson, etc.), Steve as Royal & Newly-Ancient Rules Chairman, Roy as Bret Maverick, Craig as the ringer, as DJ

and Les and I (or, at least I) as comic relief. At least one Irish Pub in the area

(neighborhood-situated Callaghan’s, mentioned by Jim Gonzalez in his book Gunny) became wealthier from our visit, and the clientele richer yet for hearing and participating in the rousing versions ofthe AF song which the paid entertainment happily facilitated, with some encouragement from ’63’s Mike Christy.

On a different field of strife, some overdue photos from last year’s AF Academy Baseball Reunion (’64 ’07) show Dave Spencer and Flip Keck in fine fettle. According to Debbie and Jan, the lads haven’t lost much—especially the smooth batting mechanics (i.e., going all-out for the 4-baggers). Since you mentioned wanting to chronicle a bit in Checkpoints, I've attached a photo of Flip Keck and Dave if it helps.

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Rob Linsmayer’s son, Rob, with man’s bestfriend at Christmas.

Special thanks to our departed classmate Rob Linsmayer s former wife, Liz Johnson, for sending this wonderful Christmas photo of their handsome son, Rob.

Joe Michel writes that he is nowwith Coldwell Banker real estate in California and waiting for the housing market to recover. His wife, Karen, received a

well-deserved promotion to Director, Financial Services, Sweetwater Union High School District.

Marty Cole bought a single-engine Mooney 231 and uses his great iron bird to see family and friends from San Diego to Little Rock. In addition to his travel

by air, Claudia and he hit the waterways in 2007 for a 14-night cruise from Montreal to Fort Lauderdale.

Benny and Jeanne Veteto had a tough 2007 with the loss of both of Jeanne’s parents. Their solace in life is found in time on the golf course and RV trips to reunions.

Our “Christmas Letter Poet Laureate,” Jim DeFazio wrote: “Now Sherry and I have had a great year. After 35 together, thought a trip would be dear. So Italy we chose, the bicycle our mode. Thru that beautiful country, for six days we rode. The

trip, it was great. Though I’m still not sure, if we spent more time biking or at the ‘table du jour.”

THAT’S A WRAP: Please clear you calendars so you can join us for our 40th reunion. Make your reservations, today! Mind the flak; keep’em flying, and keep those cards, letters, e-mails, and photos coming in to Pat Russell and me.

Please go to the Class Website to see photos included in this column in color

Finally, switching to yet another sport and a time long ago, see if you can identify the two bailers in this photo who would become members of our Class. Hints: Shot taken at Lakenheath High in 1963; one is taller than the other; both attended Mansion parties.

and in full size. Ciao for now. Tim

Lindsey Parris 616 King’s Cloister Circle Alexandria, VA 22302 Home: (703) 836-3604 E-mail:

102177.1033@compuserve.com

Greetings, GreyTags. It’s spring again

--

isn’t it great (!)-and summer will be

upon us when you receive this latest installment.

Jim Brau writes from Eugene, OR that he and Bob Hart downed a couple

beers and reminisced about the Zoo, their stint as SERE instructors together, and their blue-suit days. Bob is now the Executive Director of the Lane County Historical Society. Jim is the Director of the University of Oregon Center for

High Energy Physics, and is the University’s Knight Professor of Natural Science. Jim and colleagues are monitoring the first collisions at the Large Hadron Collider in Geneva,

Switzerland, hoping to unlock more secrets on the structure and origin of the Universe. He is also helping prepare

for the next particle collider, hopefully to be built on US soil

through a global collaboration. From Tacoma to USAFAto the Big Bang—what a journey!

Sabre Society Donors Jim and Bemie Petek have decamped from the Northern Virginia treadmill, relocating to Huntsville, AL. Bemie is in Grandmother Heaven, with son and daughter and their spouses and two grandkids close by. Also enjoying Huntsville’s rhythms are Jeff and Anne Posner, who own two homes in the area, one a lovely 41 -ft sailboat. Both Jim and Jeff are working on missile defense, Jim working with management, and Jeff with policy and strategy.

Further down in the state, the '69 & friends RTJ Trail golf trip unfolded in the Mobile area in late March. Steve Cherry, Roy Coppinger Les Dyer, Brian Nelson, Craig Collins and I found the courses lush, well-groomed, and uncrowded, and the oysters succulent (three dozen with four pints for $20, easily $80-$100 ,

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Recognition Quiz!

Doug DeGroot stepped out ofAmerican airlines after 17years, in 2007, flying primarily B-777s from Chicago to London. His travels intersected with the schedules ofRickMetts and Dave Astle, also American jocks. Doug and Mary live in Lago Vista, TX, near Austin, center of gravity for their 3 daughters, 2 sons and 4 grandchildren, with another en route. Also in Austin are Rocky and Alexandra Van Zelfden. Rocky, a CPA and attorney, runs his own company, dispensing financial advice.

Ray Haygood, retirement-eligible (41 years, 11 months in CSRS), has taken on one more project, a defense contract evaluation and award that involves

chasing bad guys with better intel. He’s now set to retire on April 1,2009. No tricks left in the hat after that.

Mike Mobley is in full celebration mode, having come through a quintuple bypass in fine fettle. Mike suggests that, through diet and exercise, we all avoid this if we can, as the entire process is inconvenient and not great fun. He is thankful for the second chance and intends to take full advantage of it. John Brummitt, Bugs Forsythe, Craig Upton, Denny Jones, Chris Paulson, Jim Petek and others joined Mike via e-mail in recalling the good times at UPT. Bugs says it was nothing but work, 24/7. The parties, Happy Hours, trekking to ASU in “cadet” -mobiles, cashing checks for $25 to ensure plenty of cushion for

the entire weekend, and so on must have been figments. Bugs, by the way, is still collecting cars, and now owns seven vintage autos from our ’60s era. Mike, great news on the successful surgery, and we all look forward to seeing you at the 40th reunion.

Speaking of which, Glenn Schlabs has rounded up the usual suspects, who plan our reunion activities so superbly. I participated in the first meeting via phone, and can report that with Glenn in the lead, Ber Reiter, Mike Guyote, Steve Edelman, Gary Howe, Ron Hindmarsh, Art Schwall, Flip Keck, John Dallager, and Tom Baumgardner, are as irreverent and on-top of their games as ever. Golfers can rest in peace, or in a nervous sweat, at what Flip organizes for the golfing portions ofthe festivities. The Reunion is scheduled forWednesday PM through Sunday AM, November 4 through 8,2009, and the game opponent is Army. You can expect an initial mailing/ emailing by mid-summer.

Registration will be on-line, including tickets for the game, so mark your calendars and make your reservations (including game tickets) as early as you can, after the instructions arrive. Among other info, the Reunion Committee will be soliciting volunteers to be Squadron Reps, whose main aim will be to encourage attendance and arrange a Squadron get-together if the guys want one. We hope to have some kind of function in the new Admissions Center as well. It will be a GREAT time so mark off the dates on your long-range planning calendar.

After a few hiccups, the Admissions Center is on track. The Class has pledges and gifts in the range of $ 1.6 million at this point, so we have some work to do to raise the additional funding necessary to ensure the project’s completion. If you haven’t contributed, please consider doing so; for those who have, the project could find use for your additional contributions. Call me, David Wagner, the AOG (Alan Burrell), or any of the Class Officers for additional information. We need to add the “Esse” exclamation point to the “Videri” core to make this legacy gift to our Academy a reality.

Cards and letters always appreciated. Hand salute, all. Lindsey -

Dick Rauschkolb

130 Luxury Lane Colorado Springs, CO 80921 H: (719) 761-5764

Cell: (719) 310-6928 Email: A0G70@comcast.net

It’s official men! Our classmate Gregg Popovich received the Academy’s high-

about old times, the Parker-Longoria wedding in Paris, recruiting in Europe, and tall tales from the past. Wild Wood and George Keys were interviewed by Comcast Sports Net on Popo’s USAFAdays. Great showmen!

Around Popo from left are: Greg Woodhead, Ray McKelvy, Angus MacDonald and his two sons, Mick Rosenblatt in front and Larry Carr in back, George

Keys in front of Popo, Darryl Lundgren in front of Doug Carlson, Al Wurglitz in the back, Rex Reilly, Yogi Royce down front, Dave Sterling, John Pomeroy, and Ron Kelly.

Congratulations are also in order for Scott Barker who was selected one of the Top Ten lawyers in Colorado in the Colorado Super Lawyers magazine.

There are over 10,000 lawyers in Colorado! My old roomie, Russ Carparelli, also received an award for Judicial Excellence.

Dave Sterling went to a high school reunion in Sacramento. He and Steve Hoagland were classmates in high school. Dave and Steve were both new to McClatchy High School and met each other outside home room the first day.

Small world! Littie known but interesting fact—Marilyn went to high school with our classmates Bill Porter (and Donna) and John Penney in Elk Grove, CA. Dave is trying to fix the mortgage crisis by himself. He and Donna are moving into a new house across the street. Plus, they are closing on a new condo in NYC for their daughter Dana next week. Yikes!

Classmates and spouses seem to be traveling around the globe. Heard Larry and Marleen Bush went to Rome, and Rich and Nanci Downing were seen drinking adult beverages in Mexico. Mike Kelley, Mick and Jan Davey visited Gregg and Erin Popovich in San Antonio, Mike and Anne Torreano have just returned from a trip to Italy. Mike Huber had a business trip to Switzerland (yeah right)! Dick and Marilyn Rauschkolb tried to take a day trip to beautiful Laramie, Wyoming, but were turned back by high winds at the ColoradoWyoming border. Skip and Jane Penny had dinner with Chuck and Barbara Weir which prompted Skip to check in after a long absence off the radar screen.

Skip and Jane had just returned from a trip to Paris. They have been married since the day after graduation—congratulations! Both are retired—Jane subs in Junior High and Skip does some consulting. Skip shared some news about classmates. Walt Seeds is still flying business jets for ComAir. Jim and Marilyn Ferguson are doing well. Jim is still teaching F-16 pilots in simulator at Luke.

Jake Holmes was in the group that was forced to retire from flying in the front seat (Delta) at age 60 so is trying to fill his days now.

est honor, the Distinguished Graduate Award, in a ceremony during the noon

meal on 4 April. Pop managed a quick touch and go at the Academy before

getting the award. He had breakfast with members of the basketball team, spoke to a few classes, did an interview and press conference, met with the Supt, got the award, and headed to Utah after lunch to coach the Spurs that night. That

evening there was a dinner for Popo and other DGA honorees Irv

Rokke, Ed Mechenbier, and Bob Beckle. The latter two

men earned the award last year, but the dinner was snowed

out. I have had the privilege of knowing all these men over

Sabre Society

Donors my career and they all are superb representatives ofthe Academy and serve as outstanding role models to today’s cadets.

Gregg is joining a small list of Distinguished Graduates and he is the youngest

graduate to earn this honor. Way to go Popo!

Several Seventy men and their spouses attended the DGA dinner—Rich and Nanci Downing—Greg and Janice Gilles—lack and Margi Mueller—John and Marylyn DeFilippo. Marilyn and I had the pleasure of sitting next to Duff Smiley who looked real sharp in his uniform.

Received an update fromWildWood Woodhead, Ron Kelley, and Dave Sterling regarding our classmates attending the Spurs-Wizard game in DC last month. Approximately 15 Seventy men met for dinner at a sports bar and marched two blocks to the game, all wearing red 70 hats. Randy "Yogi" Royce took the lead on the project and secured a block of tickets.

Thanks to Mike Kelley, after the game the boys went down to the visitors' locker room and waited for Popo. As they saw him approaching, Greg Woodhead led the group in the USAFApre-game cheer. When Pop heard that, he came right over to his classmates and spent about 10 to 15 minutes talking

Skip and Jane enjoying Paris.

Rex Jones settled in the Arkansas hinterland a fewyears ago. He said that he

has tornados half the year and mosquitoes the rest, but he is “too lazy” to move he figures if you've got ESPN on cable and beer in the fridge, why bother?

Saw Mark and Debbie Robbins briefly a fewweeks ago when they were in town for a visit. According to Chuck Weir, Bill Benedict is doing well in Phoenix.

I think Jake Dustin gets the award for the most unusual job. He converts cow —

dung into dollars. It costs about $1,000 per cowto build a plant. He has about 10,000 brown-eyed girls working 24/7 to keep him supplied. He said, “One of these days we might actually make a buck instead of spending. Actually, we start delivering product (pipeline quality natural gas) to the customer in a few weeks.” Jake’s profession fits right in with all the presidential candidates’ energy plans. I think the Academy prepared him well for dealing with manure— there certainly was a lot of manure in ’67 that we would have all liked to convert to natural gas in the summer of 1966.

Rumor has it that Mike Lyons, Henry Mitchell, Tooey Emery, Gary Finley, and Rick Lesch spent a lot of time skiing this past winter. Fortunately, no major injuries although Mitch had some heart problems and needed a few stints to open some clogged arteries. He is well on the road to recovery. Mitch did send

the following piece of trivia which is pretty neat.

One ofthe early paper money notes issued by the then colony of Massachusetts in 1775 and 1776was a political cartoon showing a Minuteman with sword

drawn and a document in his left hand... either the Magna Carta or one titled "Independence" depending on the year of issue. Above the soldier are the

Seventy Men Celebrate Classmate’s Success!

words "Issued in Defence of American Liberty," and below the soldier, "Ense 91

"

petitplacidam sub libertate quietem. This meaning 'by the sword we seek peace with tranquil liberty.' Interesting that a shortened version of this motto is also on our class rings!

Your class gift committee—Gary Dahlen, Mike Torreano, Tooey Emery and me—is working with the AOG to get plans going for the Vietnam Pavilion that we hope is ready at our next Reunion in 2010. Please keep those pledges and donations coming—we still need about $500K to get this $1M project done.

Gary Dahlen learned he had prostate cancer several months ago and under-

result, we were able to mingle among the people quite a bit. One of our son's students is a big NBA fan. After Houston and Yao Ming, he loves our Spurs and San Antonio. (I noticed that Greg Popovich is winner of one of the Distinguished Graduate Awards.) It's interesting to me that my dad, now 86, was a P51 pilot in Asia in WWII, I flew OV- 10's in S.E. Asia in the early ’70s in my early

20s, and now my son, at 23/24 is in China after graduating from college.

went a remarkable type of treatment that has left him on a full road to recovery

without any ofthe side affects of other types of treatment. Plus Tricare pays for the treatment. He asked me to pass on that if anyone has to make choices re-

garding treatment of prostate cancer to contact him through me.

Wild Bill Stealey, Jim Mulford, Bob Mack, and I kicked off the golf season on 8 May at the Academy’s Blue Course. Your class scribe used home course advantage to win all the sheckles. Wild Bill made the longest putt and chipped in on a skulled iron shot. Bob Mack lost the sportsmanship award early in the round, but had the longest drives. Jim Mulford walked off with the sportsmanship award afterWild Bill and I got into a major dispute on howto keep score.

I was right. Jim Mulford played the steadiest, but had poor partners when he was with Bob and Wild Bill.

The Leavitts and the Great Wall.

George Schultz sent along a photo of his champagne flight with American Airlines: “I am one ofthe approximately 145 guys who retired from American Airlines in February. It was about a year and a half early for me, but I think it was the right thing to do at the time.” Congratulations, George. We’re looking forward to hearing what you’ll be doing after the “honey-do” lists are completed.

Seventy Men Tee It Up in Fierce Battle. From left are Wild Bill Stealey, Jim Mulford, The Phantom, andBobMack.

Here’s hoping everyone has a great summer on the links and with your family!

Paul D. Knott 5565 Lantana Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80920 H: (719) 570-9162 W: (719) 594-0100

E-mail:

pknott@acninc.net

Is it as hard for you as it is for me to realize that the 50th class graduates this

spring?

If you haven’t heard, Harry Davis had a pretty severe stroke in February. He

spent some time in the rehab ward here in the Springs, but moved back home

recently. When I went up to see him, he mentioned the classmates who had come up to visit. Ever the mentor, Harry asks that we all get our carotid arteries checked.

(He explained that his was about 99% plugged.) One test available is a carotid Doppler ultrasound. Evidently Charlie Lucy was multitasking; he stopped by the ER either before or after he saw Harry. Something about bad blood sugar, I think. Anyhow, I know that Harry and Cindy will appreciate cards and e-mails, and I know that you guys will come through.

My threat to fill the column with Delaney’s antics evidently stirred a couple of you to action. Randy Leavitt and his bride

The lastfiftyfeet are the hardest!

Bob Manning sent along a couple articles mentioning Dave Nagy on the E8. First, Dave was quoted that the JSTARS needs new engines. The present motors aren’t as reliable as we need, and don’t have the thrust to allow the birds to take off with full fuel loads. The other article discusses the lessons learned from the defunct E-10 program, such as improved console designs, command & control, and the E- 10’s radar, which may be fitted to the E-8. Good to know that our class is still contributing.

One last mention; if you haven’t had a chance to read Darryl Wimberley’s moving tribute to Leon White in Zoomie news under “My Proudest Moment” let me know. I have a copy of Darryl’s article, which space prevents me from printing in detail. Just a taste. “The moment came on the day ofthe graduation of the Class of 71. It snowed the June week of our graduation and snow was still on the ground as we took our ordered seats on those folding chairs inside the Academy Stadium. Sitting there in Parade Dress starched stiff as boards, the cuffs of our trousers stained green from the Kentucky blue blade grass.

Waiting for the last time to have our names called in that ordered formation. ’

"We Gotta Get Out of This Place" was our class song and we could not wait to

spent some time in China last year: “I haven't communicated in a long time, but I thought I' d drop you a line about a recent

get the hell out. But first you had to graduate. So every man marched in to take his designated seat and every man had a seat assigned except one man. Leon White had a chronic pain in his gut that by his first-class year had gotten worse.

trip my wife and I took to Changchun, China. Changchun is

A very short time before Leon was to receive his commission and diploma,

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in the Jilin Province in the far Northeast part of China. We

physicians at the Academy discovered a large cancer in his stomach or intes-

Sabre Society just got back on February 21. We were there during the ChiDonors nese NewYear. We went there primarily to see our son, Mark.

Mark has been there a year teaching English at a university in Changchun. He organized our two weeks there. After we arrived we got on an overnight train to Beijing. While there we sawTienanman Square, The Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Great Wall (what a climb!) and the MingTombs.

We also passed by the Olympic Village where the 2008 Olympics will be held.

After returning on a 12-hour train trip back to Changchun (the three of us sat

tine -1 can't recall. The condition was terminal. Word was that Leon had only

knee to knee with three Chinese seated across from us), we took off on a drive to the east of Changchun. We went all the way to the edge of the Sea of Japan where we could peer into North Korea (it gave me the chills), Russia, as well as China. It was bitterly cold. We returned to Changchun to spend the rest of the time in this city of 7 million. Our son speaks pretty good Chinese. As a 92

weeks to survive. There was no formal announcement to his classmates re-

garding Leon's bitter news. There were no guidance counselors to anticipate the several reactions that might be expected to that tragedy, no emails to disperse details of Leon's illness. One day we just all knew.

“Leon was too weak by June 9 to stand in formation and too weak to march, so he sat in the

back, behind the rest ofhis classmates to take his diploma in the order that his name would suggest. I'll never forget the day. A sky so blue it hurt. So clear. You could see the clouds in the polished bills of our wheelcaps.

The names called one by one, to reach, finally—LEON GREGORYWHITE... A rustle stirred fromtherearofthe seated Wing as Leon made his way forward, lean and wan and picture perfect, not a cable or smudge anywhere on the young man's uniform, not a hint ofweakness or fear or despair. Just a ramrod

straight African-American walking the blue-blade grass between the starched parade trousers of his seated classmates in an aisle toward the waiting dignitaries. But almost from the first steps down that last disciplined march there was another sound, something like a breeze stirred up and then, my God, without a single command or instruction the entire Wing stood to attention for Leon White. It was completely spontaneous, this unforced display of respect.

We stood to attention, all of us, the entire Class, as Leon traveled that green,

green valley on the way to take his diploma. We stood and we remained standing until Second Lieutenant Leon White he left the stage. He died, I believe, within a couple ofweeks. I was so proud of Leon. So proud of my classmates.

I still am.”

So am I, Darryl.

Bob Bell 13 Pacific Ave.

From left are Bob Rakitis,first Mate HuangYungGou, and Chuck Liggett,’60,

Sinking Spring, PA 19608 (610) 678-3182/Fax: 678-4513

on the

bridge ofM/VVictona Prince on theYangtze River, China.

E-mail: rabell767@aol.com

Class of ’72 here is your Spring 08 news as fresh as it comes, (late but still included) thanks to the Herculean efforts of our AOG newsletter editor, Mr. Tom Kroboth who yet again exhibits his patience with your humble reporter.

(Editor’s note: Yo Bob --flattery will get you everywhere!)

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Dave Newill starts the queue with a very short note report-

ing that Jim “Smoke” Smolka is the pilot member of the Gulfstream NASA team recently nominated for the Quiet Spike flight program.

Dave Tumino participated on April 12th and 13th in the BP MS 150 bike ride from Houston to Austin in an effort to raise

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Sabre Society money for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. He raced Donors for the 7th time and rejoined Team Anadarko in this year’s ride. He also was said to be considerably better trained than last year as well, upping his chances of successfully completing his part in a very worthy cause! If anyone would still wish to make a pledge, even at this late date, Dave would no doubt accept any and all amounts, which also can inelude matching funds from corporate sponsors. Contact him at his home address if you are able to support his efforts in this worthwhile cause.

Bob and Chuck with Captain Shougu aboard theM/Wictona Prince.

Tim Whitlock took advantage of the early retirement option at American Air-

lines rather than stay to the bitter end or beyond (age 60) and reports already enjoying the good life! Tim says he can hardly wait for the AF retirement to kick in this October as well as that Tri-Care entitlement. He and Ann travel quite a bit, already planning for a second trip to Russia during August with plans to build a church. Ironically, he says it seems strange that after four years of reconnaissance around that place, here he is going back to build rather than destroy.

Scotty Sturman writes regarding our class participation in keeping with the tradition to sponsor the USAFA class graduating forty years after one's class.

The Class of 1972 recently committed to support the Class of 2012. The program, organized by the AOG, includes the following stipulations: Our class will purchase Contrails for the incoming class of 2012. The cost ranges from $22,000 $25,000 and will be paid from the 1972 Class Project Fund. There are sufficient funds available to provide for this obligation.

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The Class of 1972 is designated the Legacy Class for the Class of 2012 and will author the dedication page in the Contrails distributed to 2012. A record of our classmates' achievements will appear on the facing page.

Members of 1972 are encouraged to attend the 2012 Acceptance Parade where one of our classmates will present formal remarks on behalf of 1972, while others in our class will distribute Contrails to the men and women constituting

Dave Tumino getting readyfor the BP MS 150 Bike Ride.

Mike Verzola noted that our reunion photo website was not that easy to reach until you got to the correct one, not on the AFA site as previously reported. Just in case anyone else has not seen it yet, the actual location of our photo collection is <usafa72.org > following the “http: / / and the “www” instead of linking ”

from the USAFA site directly. Sorry for any more confusion on that subject.

(Cannot print in this column the exact format of the site or it messes up the

editors, hence the above “explanation”...)

I am trying again for the pictures from Bob Rakitis’ shipboard cruise that did not make it in for the last issue, so hopefully you will read that column to re-

fresh your memory of his story to accompany these photos.

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY! YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED. CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

the new fourth class.

Throughout 2012's matriculation members of our class are welcome to serve as mentors and participate in important 2012 class events.

The source and disposition of our Class Project Fund was a mystery until Harry Calcutt, 1972 Class Treasurer,recendy contacted theAOG.. Howmuch money is available? How are funds generated? How are funds spent and who authorizes their release? Harry will be in contact with you to answer these

questions.

Harry further enlarges on Scott’s remarks with his report as delivered here: I became class treasure our Doolie year and administered our class fund at

around $4,000. The fund was created by a small donation from each class

member and was used to lend cadets money for emergency leave situations.

During our years at the Academy, I made a couple of loans each year and all were

paid back.

In 19801 was approached by the AOG to turn our class fund over to them for

management. This was the precedence set by other classes so in May of 1980 I transferred $4,828.12 to theAOG. I haven’t had any involvement with our class fund until a couple ofweeks ago when I was approached by the AOG to approve funding Contrails for 2012.

After contacting Scott, we agreed that funding Contrails for 2012 was a good use of our class funds. At Scott’s request, I checked with the AOG to obtain info on our Class fund.

Here's what I found out:

As of 31 Jan 08, our total class fund was $50,065.36. This is partitioned into two accounts: Agency Funds and Class Gift Account Funds.

Agency Funds balance: $18,144.75 These are the funds generated by reunion activities. They are used to provide

93

“seed money” for future reunions, floral obligations, and other misc. obliga-

Warfighting Center in Suffolk, VA. Bill enlisted his son, Jim, into the U.S. Ma-

tions.

rines at Ft Lee, VA. Bill and Ann live in Yorktown, VA. Their older son, Dan, is

Class Gift Funds balance: $31,920.61 These funds are generated by special fund-raising activities, such as Project Paver. Their use is restricted to the specific intent of the fund raiser or as des-

ignated by the Class Officers.

So there is a synopsis of the role our class is playing in the Legacy program as mentioned by Scott and Harry- other classes have decided to use the popular unit coin and other choices for their participation, but this seems like a suitable and very practical means for us to make an impact on our “legacy class, 2012.”

Aside from collecting and writing up your news each quarter, I am lately enjoying the thrills of reserve flying on my new 777 international schedule for American in NewYork. As things around the industry keep on escalating, it just seems that the airlines are becoming more and more fun every day (said with tongue in cheek...). One other good thing however, did come of the new assignment. While I was in training in Dallas, TX, I was able to manage a visit with fellow ’72er Mike Leddy, who with his lovely wife, Molly, treated me to some fine hospitality while we also got to tune in to the first episodes of the TV

anAFCapt (VATech- ’01), B-l WSO, and currently on anALO tour with 3rd Brigade, 25th ID at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. Their younger daughter, Kate, and her husband, Will Collins (both Virginia Tech '06 grads) live in Christiansburg near Virginia Tech where Will is getting his MS in engineering.

Ann’s teaching 7th and 8th grade English, Intro to Latin, and Bible at Hampton Christian Schools. Charlie Childress (CS 32) also works at the JWFC as an OPFOR Air Planner".

Dave Harman, CS-25, was elected President-Elect of the Medical Society of the State of New York. Dave and Pam are looking forward to attending our class re-union and visiting their son, Matt, USAFA ’09. "

series “John Adams.” One way or the other, I try to find ways to get you guys into this column from time to time, right?

Just now as I was prepared to send in this edition for publication, I received word that our classmate, Terrence “Terry” Bench lost his long battle with the illness that claimed him on29Mar08. His services were held on 19 and 20 Apr 08. Condolences may be sent to his family in care of his wife, Denise, in Coral Springs, FL. Many ofyou may recall our effort to have as many classmates as possible sign get-well cards for Terry at our last Reunion Weekend. Hopefully those cards were able to deliver to him the thoughts we all shared in hopes of the easing of his pain in those last days and weeks. Godspeed Terry, and may you finally be resting in peace.

There you are, folks with all the news I have to make a column. Thanks as always for your input and keep those letters and emails coming!

Joe Kahoe

Don Rightmyer (drightmyer@yahoo.com) took a new job as Reference Li-

4140 Saddle Rock Road

brarian and staff genealogy researcher for the Kentucky Historical Society

Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Research Library in Frankfort, KY. Recently, he was promoted to official fulltime

Cell: (719) 210-5568

editor of Kentucky Ancestors. (Web site for much more.)

joekahoe@gmail.com

Tim Long’s daughter, Nicole, graduated from NYU in May after only three

http://73.texascomputerhelp.com

years with a degree in psychology. She's graduating summa cum laude, and has been invited to join Phi Beta Kappa. She started work at Brown University

Class of 73, the foflowingis a very short executive summary. Please go to our website at http://73.texascomputerhelp.com for the “rest of the story” and lots of pictures. Respectfully, Joe Kahoe, CS-07.

Gone, but not forgotten: John Manning Garrard, age 56, of252WindingTrail

Dr., died Wednesday, April 09,2008 athis home. A1973 graduate of the Air Force

Academy, John was retired from the Air

Force with 20 years service. Our heartfelt sympathies and

prayers are with all the family. Tom and Betty Kennedy and Bud Gammon represented his cadet squadron at John’s funeral and burial. “The service was a real tribute to the man we all knew, especially two poems written by his children, Elizabeth and young John. ”

On Friday, May 2nd, Buddy Gammon qualified for the US

In the photo are Kent and Sara Magnusson, son Mike and wife Vanessa, at Mike’s OCS graduation into the Coast Guard. Mike is now in pilot training in Pensacola. Kent and Sara live in San Antonio, TX. They also have three daughters, who are married, and three grandchildren.

Sabre Society Donors

Congress at the State Capital Building in Atlanta, GA., and will be running in the 11th District of Georgia, the same district he received his Congressional nomination to USAFA. Visit his website at Budgammon.com.

Tom Butler’s, son, Brian, graduated from SUPT at Del Rio and is nowstationed at Charleston AFB, SC. FlyingC-17s. Tom has been working at Atlas Air for 15 years, and is a Check Airman on the 747-400. Atlas is currently hiring pilots: anyone interested contact Tom at 240-731-3859.

Bill Heely, CS-38, is a "Threat Planner" in the Forces Branch at the Joint

in Providence as a research assistant for a start-up psychology lab there.

On Mar 13th, LightHawk volunteer pilot Alan Kinback helped several south

Florida groups, led by the South Atlantic Regional Office of The Ocean Con-

servancy, launch a pilot program to protect lives of countless marine animals from an offshore menace. Way to go, Al. Congrats to Steve Lorenz! New AETC Commander Approved: The Senate has confirmed Steve Lorenz for promotion to the grade of General to command AETC at Randolph AFB, TX. General Norty Schwartz testified to Congress: “A fleet of205 C-17s and 111 modernized C-5s appears to be the right mix of strategic airlift, Commander of USTRANSCOM...”

Randy Fotinakes pointed out that CS 34 had 1 6 of their 22 graduates at the 30th. (Pic on web site.) I think Randy just challenged us all for attendance at our 35th in September.

Bob Hooten will not make the reunion because he is working with the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in Egypt. Bob is the Chief; Information, Communication, and Technology for the MFO. He is in charge of all communications including PCs, radios, TV communications towers, flight following repeaters, the radio station, cellular phones, servers, and all future requirements for communications for the soldiers in the MFO (11 different coun-

tries). Bob retired as an 0-6 in ’98 and spent most ofhis retirement years work-

ing for AT&T as a Senior Project Manager prior to accepting his current position. (Contact info and great picture on our web site.)

Dan O'Hollaren, Brig Gen, Commander ORANG, passed along a photo of John Corley, Mike Edwards and himself at a recent ACC / ANG Adjutant's

Ann, Jim, Bill, daughter Sarah, and her husband, Matt Payne, after Jim’s Marine swearing-in ceremony.

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General Conference at Langley AFB. None have changed a bit from their cadet days! John is COMACC and Mike is the Adjutant General for Colorado.

Rick Karvosky is serving in Iraq as the Engineering Manager at Camp Taji, NW of Baghdad. Rick rented out the house in Vegas and put all, including his 50th Anniversary Corvette, into storage.

Denny and Debi Boyce are sleeping better now that their two sons are back home from Iraq. Their older son was awarded two Bronze Stars (one for Valor) as an infantry platoon leader and is now in med school at Chapel Hill. Their younger son was in Iraq as a Blackhawk Crew Chief with the North Carolina Guard and then spent all last year in Iraq again as a contract mechanic. Denny sends: I had dinner with Steve Fenton last fall in Las Vegas. He's a retired 0-6 and flies 737s for a defense contractor. He and Terry have two sons, both in the AF. Jack Hudson is a Lt Gen commanding Wright-Patterson. He and Marsha love it there since all three of their sons live in Ohio. He had hip replacement

surgery late last year (too much running) and is doing well. Saw Dave Stonehouse at the AF bowl game in Ft. Worth. He's a check airman for AmericanAirlines. Gary Wigle is an engineer with Boeing in Seattle. I'm still flying A320s for USAirways in Charlotte, NC and see Don McMillan, Dave Mullens, Steve Seville and John Harr in the crew room now and then.

Rowe Stayton deployed again to Iraq on April 5th, 2008 for another tour as an

Army National Guard combat infantry NCO. You will want to read this 2004

article: http://www.nytimes.com/2004/ll/07/international/middleeast/ 07sarge.html?_r=l&oref=slogin. Check out our web siteforwords from Rowe

regarding their mission.

Dave Elli s retired from the ART program after 34 years of military flying. Dave and Sheryl moved from Florida to Colorado. Their son Scott (USAFA 2011) and son Brent are flying Vipers at Kunsan AB Korea.

days in New York City over the holidays and danced in the NewYear at a dance studio near our home. Best wishes to all of you for 2008!

For those in AFMC, our classmate Don Hoffman has been promoted to 4star and is the general in charge of AFMC. Don has his career spread in the U.S.

European Command, U.S. Central Command, Air Education and Training, HQ Air Force, and some Middle East assignments. Congrats to Don! From Hawaii you’ve learned that Aloha Airlines has folded, but we’ve had two classmates caught: Milton S. Davis and Joe Kahiapo. Joe wrote that his biggest news happened during the midst of the Aloha demise: his first grandson was bom, their fourth grandchild named Maximilian Kahiapo. Steve Lenzi is still in Hawaii and the classmates have been keeping the lines well-used in

trying to link up with jobs. Steve and Suki are doing well, completing 20- years of wedded-bliss, he wrote. Suki is finishing her 10th year at Salvation Army and can stay there. Their boy Sam is in the 11th and he’s starting to look at colleges.

Andrew is graduating from 8th. As for work, well, war and recapitalizing aircraft fleets are tough on AF, so there is a DOD backlash against contractors, rethinking on how many GS to have vs. contractors. However, if you’re sending CACI something, copy Steve, maybe there can be something done.

Bill Casement started flying the 737-800 but thru the year DC- 10s opened a slot so Bill doesn’t have to commute to LAX. Ft Worth is now a base for L/ DClOs. Bill and Terry wrote about cycling 100k and 25k bike rides. Billissaid to run/swim when in Hawaii trying to regain some of his earlier fitness!

Maybe he’ll challenge a triathlon or marathon soon. Terry is now teaching group and private lessons in violin/viola and cello. Bill seems unsure of his company’s continuation. Sounds like cutbacks there, too.

Paul Guzowski has come home. After Paul retired in 2001, --

he took on work as a military advisor and change management consultant in Europe: three years in Budapest, a year in Vilnius and two in Bratislava. He started his search for a new home from Bratislava via the Internet and found some great possibilities in the area around Eglin AFB. After about four days of trekking to see ‘bout 30 properties, he and his wife, Chris, chose a 1910 Florida cottage in a little town of 5,000 Sabre Society with a Victorian historic district called DeFuniak Springs, Donors about 45 minutes from Eglin. I was sitting in business class a of and seat mate enjoying glass champagne meeting my before we started engines when the captain comes through the cabin meeting and greeting the passengers. He noticed the prop and wings I had on my blazer lapel and asks, "Are you a zoomie?" I nodded and he asks, "What year?" to which I replied, "74" andhesays, "Noway!" At that he sticks out his hand and introduces himself as Dave Garramone. Having not seen each other since at best the 20th reunion and more probably since graduation, we shared a bit of our careers with each other. Knowing that Dave had been with Delta since about 1980,1 knew our flight was in good hands. We said farewell after landing and I thought to myself, "What a small world this truly is when one can en-

Members ofCS-07gathered near Pinehurst, NC in March 2008for wedding ofBill and Loretta Patterson’s son. Top ofstairs to bottom from left are Dr. Mark and Bonnie Coffman, Joe and Debbie Kahoe, Bill and Loretta Patterson, Stalker and Gerry Reed, andAl and Chris Nacke.

V-'

'.ff?Jj‘i

Joe Brezovic

1209

Bayou Oaks Drive

Friendswood, TX 77546 H: (281) 482-6860 E-mail:

jbrezovic@comcast.net

Hello Classmates! First in the report comes a carryover from the previous issue. See the cold in the air? Maybe this will make the summer cooler for you for a moment or two. From Dave Daley: Happy New Year, guys! Here's a photo ofTai-Lee and me at Rockefeller Center on Christmas Eve. We spent four

counter a college classmate in circumstances like that half-way around the

world."

Arriving home, Chris and Paul were settling into the new house. One day she mused that it would be nice to get the grandfather clock running again since it hadn't worked for the 10 years we were in Carlisle. Paul called the owner of a place called "The Clock Corner" in Destin, FL, and the gentleman told me he did make house calls but since he didn' t get up our way very often he' d give us a call when it was possible. Well, to shorten the story a bit [at the house: "Really?" or "No way" and tells us he, too, is a 74 grad. So the clock repair specialist is Chuck London who is soon moving the shop to Ft Walton. Paul is working on an idea for a mini-reunion because Chuck reported that there are a number of grads in the area. Give Paul a call if you’re in that part of the USA! Bill VanHorn and Penni are still living in Iittleton, CO. Penni’s Dad has lived with them now for three years and life is going along well enough! Their Christmas letter had eight names to it! The letter mentioned visiting Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs, and daughter in Tyler, Texas, annual road trip, Angel Fire, and the joy of spending life together!

Denny and Iin Hughes got caught stopping together for a moment! Here are they at their son’s Brian and Sarah wedding in the summer. Lin continues as

Back: Ginny and Dale Burchby. Front: Melanie, Kevin, and Valerie.

95

Director of Undergraduate Nursing at the NMC. Denny, still with 1st National

Bank, increases bank branches. One son, Neal, is in StratCom as targeting chief. Daughter Tamara one of top 10 stylists in Kansas City.

From the harbor by San Diego, Dale Burchby wrote in. Another Happy New

Year wish makes it to the press! Dale is still looking for sailing crew! Melanie still

working theatre. Ginny and Kevin back to school from traveling the Pacific. (See photo at bottom of prior page.)

Joe and Joy Kelley were settling in Bethesda, temporarily. Nothing new from their seven7 realtors in five different states. I don’t have a permanent place yet from them. It seems Bethesda is the center at this time. They did have this picture with granddaughter Harper. She’s about two years old now.

(Carole), and MarkVolcheff (Mary). Since so many of us were wearing our jerseys, Bruce wondered "If the group gets arrested for wearing counterfeit NCAA-logo sports apparel (first local group function at USAFA in the new 75 jerseys), can we use the class fund for bail money?" Jim Burling sent photos and added it was a beautiful day and they were even playing golf at U SAFA that day! The Falcons came away winners after a slow start. After viewing the photos, John Charlton enquired, “Hey Burr... how come all you guys out west look so much older and grayer than the ’75ers here in the east?”

The Front Range Dark Ages Contingent.

Joe and Joy with Granddaughter Harper.

With an entire 30 hours of notice, Paul Lotakis, our new Northwest POC, found Mike Buckley, Chris Glaeser and yours truly Paul Kent for a rendezvous

Asilent moment here for classmate Richard Alcorn, CS-09, Lt Colonel re-

at the Spitfire Grill. Mike Garrett and Blair Thisted “almost” made it. The Puget

tired. All I have now is Richard passed away on April 11. The family held a memorial service at the Academy Chapel, and Richard’s ashes are scattered at the Academy. Ifyou wish to send a note of condolence to the family, drop me a note, I’ll send what we have.

May your summer be safe and joyful. We look forward to hearing about your good news and happenings! May you live long and prosper.

Sound best-alivers even convinced their wives to attend. Paul L noted "A conference call was made to the DC Area ’75ers, but due to the three-hour time zone change (read "head start" on the beverages), they were unintelligible."

Paul Kent

18166 S.E. 41st Place

Issaquah, WA 98027-9717 Mobile: (425) 785-3586 E-mail: zooscribe@mac.com

Coast-to-Coast Dark Ages Parties: Coast-to-Coast 1975 Dark Ages Parties

simultaneously took place Sat., Feb. 16th at three locations: Washington DC, Colorado Springs, and Seattle. Jim Carlson sent the “volunteered DC organizers A1 Bready and Chris Soto a list of 117

The Left Coast Puget Sound DAP Crew: Paul Kent, Chris Glaeser, Mike Buckley, and Paul Lotakis.

’75ers in "Greater DC Metro Area" or"Count-me-as-in-DCtoo." The DC Group has set the bar. Last year, Don Byers

AFB waterfront for a 7 Jun 2008 75 get together. 33 short years after pinning on

flew out from California to attend, and so did Sam Ryals from

our 2nd Lt bars.

”

Dayton. That's class dedication! Gil Braun has been to all seven of these events. A1 changed the original date at the last minute and was given sixtours by Jim C but Jim exercised his option to grant amnesty. The scribe noticed 22 classmates —

on the

After the success ofthe DC DAR Duane Jones rented a pavilion on the Bolling

IS Sabre Society Donors

preliminary list.

The C-Springs DAB organized by Bruce Mitchell, commenced with Brunch at Eisenhower Golf Course and followed with the B-Ball game against the Wyoming Cowboys. The preliminary list included Greg Black, Jim Burling, Lee Colburn, Randy Davis, Jim Dill, Brian Duffy, Dick Dye (Denise), Bruce Fritzsche, John Gaughan (Becky), Scott Hente (Lynn), Bruce Mitchell (Janice), Phil Pearce (Chris), Bentley Rayburn (Debi), Gary Shugart, Kent Traylor,

Classmate Updates and Stories: From Bill Lyerly: Like my ol' buddy Jim Carlson who has gone there before me -1 am now officially "in Law School".

From Jim Dearien: The 75 jersey was the hit of our family Christmas! From

Roy Rice toTerryYoung:... I tried to order a 75 Jersey with the text "T. Young Wanna-Be" embroidered on the back. Terry responds: Interesting... mine cost $50 more because of my extra lettering "when I grow up I want to be just like Roy Rice smart, a good leader, etc"... but ran out of room. Dave Clough, after reading "the Daily Orders" at USAFA: I guess this qualifies me as "Brown Shoe". I still get a little startled response when I see things like" Sexual Risk Management II" or "Women's Basketball" on the Daily Orders. Not a bad change, just so different from our experience back "in the day". Also changed -

-

The DC Dark Ages Party Contingent!

96

from our experience: “Days Since Last Cadet Alcohol Incident: 10” (for’75, this would be in hours, not days).

From Stan Schoener: Went thru cancer surgery (bladder) a week ago. The bad news is that it was the "C" word but the good news is that he thinks he got —

Admin: With Larry Fariss serving as our Class Rep to the AOG Senate, here's a weblink to contact or send a message to the AOG Board of Directors

(all

board members at once): http: / / www.usafa.org/Contact.aspx?group=board& name=All%20Board%20Members. From Duane Jones: I just found a roll of

everything out. Mike Narkiewicz, I know, understand how scary this is. Our

35mm negatives from pictures I took during a dining-in when we were firsties.

very own Alan G. Peck (Disco) makes his third star! From Harry Mathis: Miracles still happen. Against many odds, the Air Force has decided to promote me to 0-6. With so many young thoroughbreds in the race I was pretty sure this old plow-horse was headed for the barn (thought I could even smell the hay), but God and the AF had other plans. I'm number two on the list, but also have an assignment pending, so not sure when or where pin-on will be.

After 34 years, it's pretty fascinating to look at. Check it out: http://

Duane Jones made MG! From Chuck Schmitz: I’m off to Iraq, Victory Base,

in May. Still in uniform, Ohio ANG. From Jeff Chappell: Just saw a well-done documentary called "Fighting for Life," about military medical operations in

Iraq and our very own Charlie Beadling. A modern-day MASH. #3 son Ben is about to enter the Army as a medical tech and he was inspired by the show.

From Jim Carlson: The Air Force Academy Association ofWashington DC (AFASW) conducted their annual USAFA Founders Day reception (to commemorate USAFA's establishment) on April 6. It was a great dinner with great company (with seven members of the class of’75 present: Charlie Bergman, Jim Carlson, Mark Beesley, Bill Lyerly, Charlie Beadling, Scott Smith, and Phil Benjamin) .Hook forward to this event almost as much as to our annual Dark Ages Party! Every once in awhile, I have the distinct pleasure of meeting a classmate for the FIRST TIME even after almost 37 years... Last night was the first time that Charlie Bergman and I ever met (as far as either one of us knows).

And wouldn't you know it, anyone listening to us talk might have thought we'd

web.mac.com/flyingboat/USAFA_75_Dining-In/Photos.html. From Jim: Like Duane, get out those old photos the rest ofyou guys and start scanning. We need to collect them for Bill Estelle before the next reunion!

Keith Workman has graciously stepped up to the plate to serve as the class Point of Contact (POC) for ’75ers who did not graduate (but who are ’75ers and classmates nonetheless). Many ofyou are aware that Chip Kerby has

masterfully served in this capacity for over five years, and kept you informed of class activities. As always, the scribe will post a much-expanded checkpoints and numerous photos to zoomienation shortly after this printed Checkpoints arrives in the mail.

Dan

Colorado Springs, CO 80921 H: (719) 488-1962 E-Mail:

whrlybrd76@aol.com Dan.Beatty@usafa.af.mil http://www.AFAcademy.com/76

—

been friends forever. Charlie is the Executive Director of NGATS (Next Generawhich is transforming America's Air tion Air Transportation System) in DC —

Traffic Control System. You guys who weren't there missed a great time we were the loudest, happiest two tables in that room! Scott Hente is successfully recovering from prostate cancer surgery.

From Wes Routh: I wanted to share with you some info about my recent lifestyle change and the success it brought. Fifteen months ago, my doctor gave me my prescription and said, "You are a diabetic." That was due to a lifetime of overeating, especially carbohydrates. Before that, I weighed over 260 pounds for over a decade. [After implementing my game plan] I lost 40 pounds in less than six months, kept my blood sugar low, and bought a new --

wardrobe. Two months ago, my doctor I had for the past nine months said to me, "Tell me again why the previous doctor said you are a diabetic?" She looked through my medical records at a year of good test numbers and took me offthe medicine. I am still a diabetic, but with my new lower carb lifestyle, my blood sugar is never high; plus losing weight and keeping it off was has been amazing.

From James Hartney: We moved to Williamsburg, VA. I'm working in Norfolk. Not sure how long we'll be here, butArdis is hoping it's forever! Daughter Maureen graduates in May from U ofFlorida and is looking forward to learning where she'll be going to UPT. From Steve Watson to Jim C: Doing great. Just had the joint in my left big toe replaced. No big deal; should be back to 100% very soon. It is interesting to note that you are working with DEA [as a contractor]. When I was in the AF, I started a hot air balloon program. As part of that program, I flew the balloon and took up DEA guys up in the balloon for counter drug work. It was a great time and flew some very interesting missions. Had a blast. I can’t believe an old fart LtCol in the Air Force could spend about five a hot air balloon. Life is

good sometimes!

years flying From Mark Beesley: There I was, minding my own business the other day at The Capital Grille in DC for a meeting with a guy named Bmce Lyman. I walked in to meet him and his wife and began the business discussions. Bmce asked me to tell him a little bit about myself. I answered in my standard way and then this little voice pops up and says, "Really, you might know my Dad.”"Oh sure”, I said, “I might. What is his name?” Upon which she replied," Doug Fraser. "No kidding. Well "Yes," I replied. "I know him as he and I went to the Air Force Academy together in the same class, 75 Best Alive!, and we have been stationed together several times from Luke to the Pentagon to Colorado after our Academy days."

Nobody, including myself, could believe what had just happened. So this was -

Beatty

12196 Stanley Canyon Road

Fellow’76ers, As you read this the Class of2008 should now be 2Lts and the newest addi-

tions to the Long Blue Line.

Moving up/moving on. Brian Meenan and Ben “Boats” Bartlett both selected for Major General, USAFR. Ben moves to Tampa as CENTCOM/CC Air Reserve Component MA; Mike Gould from 2nd AF/CC to Director, Ops & Plans, USTRANSCOM; Randy Spetman is the new Florida State University Director ofAthletics; Bryon Hepburn from Command Surgeon, HQ AMC to Commander AF Medical Sup-

portAgency, BollingAFB; Denny Shupe appointed toUSS New Jersey Board of Trustees; Bill Jones announced candidacy for Georgia’s 6th Congressional District; Dave Robinson retires effective 01 Jul. Congrats classmates!

Correction: Apologies to Mike Worden for listing him as Roy in my last letter.

35 Sabre Society Donors

General Class Stuff: First, I am expanding/updating my Scribe database and would appreciate any contact info you have for any ’76ers including email /snail mail addresses and phone numbers. I will not share the info without your permission to protect your privacy. Please send any and all contact data you have. I will sort out any duplicates.

Jack Catton says he spent about four months visiting family and friends then became a VP with Boeing in DC, about 20 minutes from daughter Jennifer.

Mike Fricano updated his new work phone number and passed on some senior move data. Ben Thomson passed on some commo from Bob Oleksy and

Mike Worden. Bob and Ben work in the same building here in C-Springs sup-

porting the MDA Ground-based Midcourse Defense Program, Bob with Boeing and Ben as a SETA. Mike reports the latest household move was #25 and Lori

and kids are all doing well.

Dave Terifay pinged me for contact info on Kevin Chilton and sent a partial list of FEDEX ’76ers including Jim Deaux, Brad Forrest, Phil Julien, Monty Lee, Willie Palms, Dave Root, Brad Sharpe, Bill Strell, Scott Thurner and himself. Chili says he and Cathy miss the mountains and C-Springs, but he is enjoying Offutt and the newjob. He recently visited Iraq and Afghanistan and saw Dave Clary in Baghdad. Dave sent me a separate note and pics from the AOR. One of the pics was Dave pinning a Purple Heart on USAF TSgt Baker, wounded in a rocket attack in the Green Zone. The pic was in the hallway because as the ceremony started in TSgt Baker’s room, another rocket attack

little Heather whom I remember as a young one a long, long time ago.

Sandy Terry is at it again with his "Riding to Save Lives" for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's endurance training program. Many of you will remember that he was participating in this event / effort last year until he got a call from his physician and told that a routine exam had discovered a tumor that needed to come out immediately. He went under the knife the next week. Everything successful and he is now training. Donating is simple: http:// www.active.com/donate/tntsoh/STerry08. was

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY! YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED.

CALL THE AOG FOR INFO. Dave Clary (left) pinning Purple Heart on TSgt Baker.

97

commenced and all moved to safer area’s away from the windows. I hope you enjoyed your helo ride Dave!

Pat Ashenfelter sent photo of herself, daughter CaptVirginia, and Dave and Lori Robinson at March Team Tinker base awards. Ginny was a CGO nominee and is currendy deployed to Baghdad. Thanks Pat. Tom Sawner was one of nine business owners invited to a private meeting with President Bush on 07 Apr to chat about how the economic stimulus package bill was working. Tom says the group was invited into the Oval office for an additional 20 minutes.

Pat O’Brien sent a note to let us know he is well but still recovering from his Feb 07 plane crash and to thank everyone for the notes and prayers sent his way.

Joe Evans watched son Joe graduate from helo training and also got a ride in Vietnam-eraHuey. I know that was fun! Bill Hanson is still working on his PhD in Oklahoma and hopes to finish this fall. Duke Evans is working process improvements for AT&T in Ohio, kids Adam and Krystal are working on MBA and teaching Spanish, respectively. Dave Berg dropped a line from Langley and Dave Robinson sent an invite to his retirement.

Well classmates, again time to stick a fork in it. 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.

John J “Lou” Michels, Jr.

4107 Harvey Western Springs, IL 60558 Voice: (312) 849-8150 Fax: (312) 849-8151

E-Mail:

jmichels@mcguirewoods.com

Tom Sawner (left) with President Bush.

Ray Brunelle is still flying Continental B767s, is very attached to his native New England with a penchant for skiing, sucking on lobster and the other perks with a four-season seacoast lifestyle. Kim Weber says life in Gilroy CA may not interest everyone but that all is well there. Denny Damiens says daughter Danielle graduated Virginia Tech 10 May and begins doctorate work at U of Maryland Medical Center-Baltimore for PhD in Physical Therapy. Dave Merrill sent address update from O’Fallon IL and also a note congratulating Mike Gould

assignment. Bernie Goldbach wrote from home in Ireland and says he has a wonderful view of two separate ruins dating back to the 12th century and doesn't mind sharing the view with classmates or their kids if they happen to visit Ireland. He’s been teaching podcasting and creative multimeon his Scott

dia in Ireland since 2001.

Bob Mansfield confirmed contact data and is now happy that C-Springs winter appears to have ended. John Hope and wife, Nino, get off the tuition train with son Alex’s May graduation from Duke. John’s new job will have him covering all of Canada, WA, OR, CO, ID, and UT as a microwave component supplier.

Doug Fry is still in Denver and is amazed that Cendy has put up with him for 31 years Daughter Capt Casey is with NATO AWACS in Germany, oldest son is halfway thru Finance MBA at Columbia, and youngest Lt Matt just finished C-

Greetings from the now slowly-warming banks/beaches/trash dumps of Lake Michigan, where the women are all strong, the men are all good looking, and the temperatures are below average. I have an extremely slim mailbag this time around (that’s two columns in a row, folks) and will again renew my plea for more information about all the interesting lives people are leading. But at this point, I’ll take even uninteresting lives. Drop me a line when you can.

Hoop Dreams: Rick Pialet (Renell), in between his flying stints for United, is one ofthe founders and principal movers

behind an organization called “Friends ofAir Force Basketball. Rick has been working hard to promote what is now a very successful Air Force program. He’s looking for financial Sabre Society support, much as the football program does, and I encourDonors age any and all of you to contact him if you are interested in assisting. John Visser (Ann) paid Rick a quick visit during last season Rick and John are 737 Captains for United and American respectively, ”

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and were probably comparing notes on short runway landing procedures at Midway. They saw the Falcons win against TCU (remember when we might see one or two wins in a

season?) and to do some AOG Chapter politicking. As

proof, I offer the following photo:

17 training. Becky Spetman sent a newTallahasse address for the family. Roger

Widholm, Denny Shupe and Jim Boma confirmed contact data. Greg Schneider sent email data for Mike Sevier, Doug James, John Thomas Young, and John Rivera. Mike Yama Dog” Hoyes sent email data on Rich King, Stan Correia, Calvin Allen, Gary Kyle, Mike Miller, and Wes Stowers. Pete Mapes “

sent a new Maryland address update for him and Nona. Dave Dingley is still on

Space Coast in Brevard County FL as senior staff assistant for county com-

missioner. Says Virginia is great, daughter Tamatha graduates from U of FI in May, daughter Coralea finishes Masters at U ofWashington in June, and son Ed married last Sept. T S Kelso attended the April National Space Symposium; saw Tom Muckenthaler and Willie Shelton.

He also talked with Buzz Aldrin

and had a photo with Jolene Blalock who played T’Pol on Star Trek Enterprise.

Hard to get Star Trek out of a ’76er!

At the Hoopsfest!

Thanks, John and Rick. Keep up the good support ofthe Princeton offense.

Grads Supporting Grads: Paul Pirog (Mary) sent me a picture of his recent Legion ofMeritpin-on conducted by none other than Irv Halter (Judy). You may remember that Paul is the head of the law department at the Academy; Academy tenured professors are now required to go back into operational duty for a year for reblueing” and to take advantage oftheir academic expertise. Paul was assigned to work for Major General Halter as the 19thAFSJA. (See photo at the top of the next column.)

I was able to have lunch with Paul here in Chicago over Christmas. Paul appears none the worse for operational wear, and is only tinged blue around the edges. Thanks for the photo and update, gentlemen.

Mystery Solved, Continued: You may recall that I referred to an interloper in the CS-33 rejoin photo from the reunion. In fact, the A-Jacket patch belonged to CS-39, and adorned one Don Brubaker (Charlene). Don was a loyal memher of the Cellar Ratz for two years but was moved firstie year to Campus Radicals as part of the binge-and-purge activity going on in our first-class summer. “

TS Kelso (right) w/Jolene Blalock and some other guy.

Jimmy Carter sent his list of email contacts. Tony Przybyslawski and Mark Welsh are having a great time at AETC (Tony is A2 /3 and Mark is CV). Tony sent a couple of pics showing them delivering two2 factory-new T-6s to Randolph.

A1 Patriquin mentioned the annual USAFA Soccer Alumni match vs the cadets was on 3 May. A1 thinks he was the oldest alum playing for the last three years.

98

Nonetheless, old ties are the best ties, thus Don’s appearance. Scott Harrod (Nita) assures me that Don is still a Rat in good standing, which means I don’t have to erase his image from the photo. Thanks, guys.

him too much as cadets and he sent me a picture of Steve and Theresa Miller at one of the football games last fall.

Again, I continue to be impressed by how none of these people appear to have aged much since I saw them last. Must be the altitude.

And finally, a bit of personal news. I managed to finish building a house up

put furniture into it at the beginning of May. So, I will be commuting for vacation and other purposes between here and just north of Cripple Creek on a regular basis. I hope to see those of you in the Springs area

near Divide and

more often.

Close Out: That’s it from here. Pretty slim pickinsifyou ask me. Shoot me really short. Be seeing you.

some emails for next time or the column will be

Bob

Kay

40411 Tesoro Lane

Palmdale, CA 93551

Home:(661) 274-2201

Classmate Support-Paul and Irv and theLOM.

Work: (661) 824-6426

Someone Doing Something Really Important: Dave Gragan (Mary) has been

Email:

the subject ofseveral entries in this column. First, because he joined the Marines after graduation and opened a never-ending door of speculation as to his common sense; and second because he has moved

through a post-military series of positions that are nothing short of fascinating. In his latest job, Dave is the District of Columbia’s Chief Procurement Officer. Any of you familiar with DC city government, or even any large city government, know that the procurement function is a tremendously demanding one, frequently marked by extreme delays and inefficiencies in procuring even the most basic services, as well as being a legal morass of procurement schedules, affirmative action issues, and other mangled requirements designed to promote various social initiatives by the city government. DC is no exception; in fact, it is one of the worst in the country. DC Mayor Adrian Fenty handpicked Dave to sort all this out. Dave was the subject of an extremely complimentary article in Government Procurement last year describing his efforts, and somebody sent me a copy for my perusal. After reading the article, I sort of envision Dave as kind of procurement Hercules cleaning out the Augean Stables that is the DC purchasing system.

So, a day or two after reading this article, I am sitting at Reagan Airport in DC when some guy with a Marine-type bearing walks up to me and goes, “Aren’t you Lou Michels? It was the very same Mr. Gragan on his way out to deal with some other crisis relating to DC’s financing. We had a great chat in the airport, surrounded by several of my partners (we were returning from a firm partnership meeting), all ofwhom were fascinated at meeting somebody in the nerve center of DC administration. After we parted company, one of my partners commented that even though we were in school together, Dave somehow looked much younger and still had all his hair. Solo lawpractice looks better and better every day. Dave, great to see you, but we’ll do our next meeting by videoconference.

Video Highlights: Don “Coon Dog” McCune (Bernadette) made FoxNews recendy, commenting on the FAA’s grounding of airplanes at Southwest and American. After listening, it’s hard for me to believe that Don is actually a practicing attorney his comments were clear, concise, and illuminating, to such an extent that the interviewer couldn’t figure out any follow-up questions. Nice work, Don, in explaining a very complicated situation so that people ”

Robert.kay@baesystems.com

Greetings’78ers...

The good news is that we now have 30th reunion dates and those would be the 17th (Wed night) to the 21st (Sunday morning) of September. The game Saturday will be against UNLV and is also homecoming weekend. Please refer to theAOG website (www.usafa.org), select“Class Reunions” on the top then “1978 Information” on the upper left of the reunion page.

There is currently a tentative schedule, hotel info (we’ll be at the Embassy Suites off of 1-25 on Woodmen Road) and other items to look at. Make your plans now—should be a great time. Wayne KeUenbence and his gang are working diligently to make it one worth remembering.

First out of the chute, I saw an article on the AF web site

showing Steve Sargeant talking to cadets at the Zoo back in March. He was there to sign a memorandum of agreement

Sabre Society Donors

with the Dean (see photo) establishing a formal USAFA/ AFOTEC (AF Operational Test and Evaluation Center) mentoring program that will enable AFOTEC members to mentor Academy cadets enrolled in or

considering engineering, scientific and mathematics disciplines. I remember as cadets how we would lament not having much contact with members ofthe “Real Air Force” so this seems like an excellent way to bridge that gap. Steve is currendy the AFOTEC commander at Kirtland.

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like me could understand.

Miscellany: Cleaning up from the reunion, Lee Monson (Julie) will be retiring from Boeing this spring after a long and distinguished career. Well done, sir, but I look forward to hearing about the newest venture soon. Jeff and Leslie Perkins, not satisfied with running marathons in terrible heat, are now doing ballroom dance competition. Jeff promised to send me pictures, in which he looks like “the monster in Young Frankenstein,” but so far, no joy. If that prospect doesn’t keep you reading this column for the next year or so, I don’t know what will. Good luck, guys, and I hope Leslie is wearing the steel-tipped dancing pumps.

Many of you will remember Joe McBrearty, the Chief Master Sergeant at the Zoo when we were there. Joe stays in touch with those of us that didn’t irritate

Air Force/Army Tailgate with ourformerWing King and ChiefMcBrearty and hisfamily.

Just after I turned in the Winter article, Amy Keohane sent a nice note to bring Unfortunately, Tom (Northwest Captain) was grounded from

us up to date.

last Nov-Mar due to right bicep surgery needed fix the injury he sustained

playing in a non-checking over-45-year-old hockey league. He couldn’t even drive for 10 weeks—am betting Amy was very happy when he was back in action! She also said that sadly, Tom Czachor was medically retired from Northwest after hip replacement surgery almost two years ago that didn’t quite heal properly. On the family front, daughter Jennifer graduates from Northwestern in June and has been accepted to four grad schools. Middle daughter Andrea graduates from Miami of Ohio in and goes to medical school after she takes the MCATs. Theiryoungest Michelle is still a junior in high school and hasn’t determined where she wants to go to college yet.

Also heard from UPT brother Buck Lansford’s bride, Teresa. Daughter Meghan graduates (or will have graduated by the time you’re reading this) from USAFA with ’08. She left USAFA for ayear to study Mandarin in mainland China (wow!), was a perpetual Dean's lister and will be attending grad school after graduation. Buck is a Southwest captain as well as the chairman of their military committee coordinating SWA folks being deployed in the Guard and Reserves. They also just finished their retirement home in South Park CO which is 25 minutes from Breckenridge. Teresa still plays tennis as well as enjoying skiing with her doolie roommate Allene Saleck.

Mike Spain wrote that he still flies for Delta as a Salt Lake City domiciled 757 Captain along with doing contract administration work for the local Air Line 99

Pilot's Association council. Oldest son Robby is at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo with his Army National Guard Unit as a Blackhawk helicopter crew chief. Other son Mark just graduated from Southern Miss in Dec and will be teaching along with hopefully coaching high school football. Other Delta classmates Mike has run into lately include Tom Kana who is an MD-90 first officer commuting from Denver (Tom helped Mike out quite a bit with retirement planning and

Deputy 12th AF commander at DM and will hang it up in October. Dave Morte is the Director of Analysis and Lessons Learned at 9th AF at Shaw and retires in

financial advice) and Mark Apfel is an MD-90 Captain also in Salt Lake and

Training Wing at Sheppard and move to Scott as the Deputy A3 for Mobility

living in Dallas.

Command.

Francisco Torres sent this picture below of, from left, Alex Trujillo, himself, and Glenn Spears. Francisco and Alex are in the Miami-based AOG South

Florida Chapter where Glenn was the guest speaker back in February. Glenn is still the U.S. Southern Command deputy as was mentioned in the last article.

June; and finally Blake Lindner worked somewhere in the Pentagon and retired in May.

Speaking of Jay Lindell, he’ll be returning from Afghanistan to the Pentagon in the Asst SAF for Acquisition office. Rick Devereauxwill give up the 82nd

My sincere thanks to everyone for the great info this quarter. Please make your reservations NOW for September.. .see you then! ’78 is Great!

J. R. Dallas

1612 Rannoch Trace Ft. Smith, AR 72908

(H) (479) 648-0433 (C) (479) 420-7817 jrdallasF16@yahoo.com

Greetings, ’79ers! Daren (travel agency owner), Megan (20, UnivofArizona), and Drennan (14,9th grade) and I (AAL,767F/0,DFW,retired ANG’07) hope that 2008 is treating you all well, and that continual success and fantastic health are in your lives. Life in Arkansas is beautiful. I retired on 30May’07 goodsounding date, and am flying 767s with AAL as I commute from Ft Smith, AR. Call when close by! On to news!

First-ever ’79er to be in Golf Digest magazine! Check out March ’08 edition, page 153. That’s our Jim O’Neil in the ad!

Dave Hardey (JoAnn) (AAL 777F / 0,ORD) writes that oldest Emily is at U of South Carolina and youngest Sara is high school senior who’s being recruited to run college track and crossIS Sabre Society country. It’s in the blood, Sunshine! Photo shows a mini-CS32 Donors reunion as some old Roadrunners did some salmon fishing in Alaska. John Duhamel (Genia) hosted. Looks like fun was had by all! Knowing these five as I do not sure who ‘won’ the whopper storytime competition! RaySands (Marlene) wrote that life is outstanding in Florida with son Mason (5 yrs) in tow. Ray’s VP of Funding and Acquisitions for Exclusive Costa Rica—a marketing and development company specializing in real estate -

Gordy Curphy is keeping extremely busy in the leadership consulting busiHe earned his PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology at the University of Minnesota several years ago between twin teaching tours at the Zoo back in the early’90s. While there, he co-authored what has been the #1 selling college textbook on leadership for the past 15 years: “Leadership: Enhancing the Lessons of Experience.” After separating from the AF, he spent the next several years doing leadership consulting in the private sector. The main focus of his company involves getting the right people into leadership positions, developing their leadership skills, getting groups of leaders working better together, and helping leaders develop organizational strategies and drive organizational change. His latest effort will be titled “The Moronization of Management” and will describe why there is currently a shortfall of leadership talent and what people can do to make up for it.

Gordy has also run into some classmates as he travels: the aforementioned Tom Keohane, Brad Creed, (also a Northwest captain living in Michigan with two small children), Dave Roetzel (Delta captain), and over the holidays last year he had dinner with Steve Asbell (captain for Alaska Airlines and also still plays hockey). Keep up the good work Gordy!

Fellow Bulldawgers Ted Roush is the Science and Math Dean at Pima Community College in Tucson, while John Parrott is the Deputy Director of the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. John has about 300 state employees working for him and flies his TriPacer on the weekends along with a recentlypurchased Cessna-180 that he’ll put on floats this summer.

Chuck Chuva (Northwest captain.. .is there a trend here?) is one proud dad!

Son Dean is in the USAFA class of2009 and on the academy boxing team. Those facts in and of themselves would make any dad proud but Dean went a bit ness.

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deals in CostaRica. He plays lacrosse in Vail each year for “TeamTexas” each 4th of July. He plans on retiring in three years and setting up his own real estate resort projects—I’m interested! C.R. is beautiful. Thanks for the update! I saw Tom Kovatch at the Honolulu Airport

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me on a

trip; he was on a golf weekend! He

looked tan and fit! Must have won the rounds.

sa*

MReel Fun

farther this year. He won his title bout at the Nationals in Reno to become the National Collegiate Boxing Champion for 2008 in the 112 lb weight class! An additional j oy for Chuck as he cheered Dean on was connecting with former 3rd Squadron roommate Keith Wilkinson at this year’s Wing Open Boxing Finals. Keith and his bride, Julie, are living in the Springs after Keith recently retired from the AF as an 0-6. It is indeed a small world.

Jan Jouas, Mike Englebrecht, John Duhamel, Ken Kraak, and Dave Hartley

Joe Barron (Beth) writes that he retired 1 Sep07, finished as the IG for AETC at Randolph AFB. Enjoying his time offbefore hittingthe job search aggressively— I read ‘house projects’ in his tone. Two oldest kids grown and married (two grandsons from their oldest), and youngest child still a sophomore in high school. Good luck with the job search, Joe. Thanks! Ed Dubicki (AAL A300CA, MIA) writes that flying the Caribbean for last eight years is still great. He gave up his LiaisonOfficer Director position in NY state in June2007. Fly safe, Ed. Tell Steve Mathews (Caroline, AALA-300CA, MIA) that Daren and I all say ‘hello’. Gary Curry has been in Bahrain working for the Army as a deployed Reservist for the last year—providing commercial satellite imagery to the

Dean and Dad The slate of’78ers on the current two-star list released in March included: Don Alston (Nuke ops on the Air Staff), Paul Capasso (Command, Control, Communications for Africa Command), JayLindell (Deputy Air Power boss in Afghanistan), Punch Moulton (Dep 7th AF CC in Korea), and Mike Snodgrass

(also at Africa Command as the Chief of Staff). Congrats to everyone!

Finally, some retirements and a couple moves: Joe Mudd is currently the 100

warfighter. Living in an off-base apartment drawing per diem—sweet! Glad you are back; think you are back home in Colorado by now. Hope so—call me!

Jeff Shields (Becky, 23yrs of marriage) (NWA,A-320, MSP) writes that he’s back from second furlough—got back in Oct 06. Welcome back, Jeff1.1 know that flying again must feel great! Waiting out the DAL/ NWA merger stuff now.

One college son; one son in high school. Jeff’s involved in the Twin Cities Military Academy Graduate networking group—says if interested—call him.

Thanks for the update, Jeff! A voice from the past—Lance Beam (Jamie) (SWA,737, PF1X) writes that they have a 20-year-old and that he runs into Larry Butler and Denny Hugo from time to time at SWA. Lance, I will call you! Take

Scott Adams (Pam, 29yrsofmarriage) retired in2005—last year with the Nat’l Geospatial Agency in STL. Says “was happy to leave it”. Living west of C.Springs from which he commutes to ski patrol near Leadville, CO—NICE! Four grandkids care.

family decisions. Next up: John Pardo at pardo_john@hotmail.com.

See ya at the 30th! ’79 till the day we die! J.R. Dallas ness and

Don

are great, he substitute teaches, mountain bikes, and has led some groups to North Africa to teach English. Fantastic! Thanks for the email, Scott.

Tom Tiegeler (Gail, 26yrs of marriage) wrote with a lot ofnews—Gail is a CPA working corporate accounts; middle son (Todd) is a junior at Virginia Com-

mon Wealth and will attend their med school

Myers

401 Chambray Hill Peachtree City, GA 30269-4247 (770) 631-1429 E-mail: DMyers80@hotmail.com Class Home Page: http://usafa80.tripod.com ZN ZoomieNa tion.usafa.org

afterwards; youngest (Scott) is

senior in high school, going to James Madison Univ (VA) to study Integrated Science and Technology; Tom swore in son Andrew (AFA ’07, CS-32 legacy, he graduated 80th in his class. Tom, great famnow in Pilot Tmg) last year

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ily—they did get Momma’s genes, didn’t they? You have done something very right, my friend! As for Tom, he works as the Lead Integration Engineer for the AOC (Air&Space OperationsCenter). With Tom are Mike Leggett (Wendy) and Jake Jacobsen, who also owns a restaurant near Langley AFB. Tom’s still a Liaison Officer for USAFA and ROTC—placed five candidates in 2007. Tom says Paul Schubert is in Columbus OH doing the ALO gig also. Thanks, Tiegs!

Hello class, this is A1 Wallace sitting in for Don Myers for this issue. Celebrating our half-century birthdays maybe a good time to reflect: Are successes or failures due to luck, judgment or nepotism? As our first Guest Scribe, I suspect nepotism may have played a role in this assignment: My daughter’s best friend is Don (Kathleen) Myers’ niece. When I recently discovered this fact and told Don, he immediately said “introduceyourself;you have the aircraft.”

“I have the aircraft. As a cadet, I was fortunate to serve on the '80 Parachute Team Wings of Blue (PTWOB)—the only team where every member graduated as Fighter, Attack, and Recce qualified from pilot training. The experience bode 26 well for me—ejecting solo from a T-37 after an engine exSabre Society Donors ploded. I went on to fly F-15s, returning to Williams AFB as an F-5 Foreign Military Sales Instructor. Tragically, in three years we lost two instructors, two students and four jets. I gave an F-5 back to the taxpayers after a dual engine failure on takeoff: ejection #2 for me. Along ”

the way, Jesus found me and I said yes. Late 1987,1 worked for small dotcom

companies which got big fast. I made 38 jumps on my 38th birthday, competed in the U.S. Paraski Nationals, tore my ACL, and decided I was too old for the

midlife crisis stuff.

Ten years later, our house near Denver was incinerated in a fire (see Letters to the Editor). After two

days in burn ICU, I am thankful to be here writing this.

Tom Tiegeler and family

I have my own company, yet I periodically work in Peru to develop sustainable

My old CS-32 roommate, Chuck Franceschi (Laura)—(living near Denver) writes that they are at the five grandkid stage now (three girls, two boys)—no more ‘production’, just ‘mergers and acquisitions’. Their family Christmas

infrastructure in order to create jobs for destitute families, thereby keeping 1416 year old girls out of the prostitution trade.

photo was fantastic—a very happy and big clan! Does Chuck lead the class in grandkids? Anyone else close? Thanks, Chuck.

Jon Box (Lynn) relays that he’s still working the Predator and Reaper systems on the UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Task Force at the Pentagon. Oldest son (Taylor) attends Harding Univ in Searcy, AR! Jon knows where Ft Smith, AR is I am sure. Daughter (Elizabeth) is AFA Class of 2011. Kids (Geoffry and Daniel) are their highschoolers. My other old roommate—Steve Wheeless (Tanya) writes that he’s into labor law company side—ahhhhh!—with a firm in Phoenix. Audrey will soon be 14, and son Ross is 11 starting middle school.

Son Jake (two years old) rounds out the family and keeps them hopping as he’s into all sports. Tanya is President and CEO of the Arizona Bankers Association.

Steve—I will visit promise!

Jeff Moore (Pattie) (UPS,A-300CA) had a challenging 2007. In Dec 06, Jammer was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and started chemotherapy treatments every other week. He responded well to the aggressive treatment cycle and was declared cancer free (!) on 28 Feb 07. Some of the chemo meds caused his heart efficiency to drop, but Jammer is currently in the process of applying for an FAA medical waiver. We are keeping all fingers crossed for you, Jammer. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!

John Wagner (FedEx, 727F/ O) sent a name-fiJJed update for the FedEx boys: based in Anchorage: Mike Fox (MD-11CA), Gary Roeder (MD-11CA), and Ron Horton (MD-11F/0). At the Memphis crew-base: Hermes Peterson (MD11CA), Brad Harden (MD-11CA), Walter Pate, Pete Lenz (A-300CA), Jim Mumby (MD-11CA), Larry Hoffman (MD-11CA), Mitch Davitte (A-300CA), Scott Jensen (A-300CA), Alan Davis, Bob Brown (727F/0), Leo Lundy (A-300CA), Steve Looney (727CA), John Lund (A-300CA), Jerry Masonis (DC- 10F/O), Mike Frey (727CA), Steve Deaux (A-300F/O), Harry Whiting (A-300F/O), Grant Bruckmeier (DC- 10F/ O), Bruce Gebhard (A-300F/ O) (I wondered what happened to you, Bruce!), Delane Clark (A-300F / O), John Bingaman (727F/ O), andKurtWeiger (MD-llF/O). OutatlAX,Mike Weiland (MD-11CA). Outside of flying, Steve Deaux’s son’s three-man band was on David Letterman recently—rockstars! Harry’s son is AFA Class of 2010. Last update from Wags: LeGrande Blount (Melanie) (DAL,767CAATL), Nick Craig (Marie) (CAL), Mike Baudhuin (Susan) (DAL), and Jeff Gowen’s a proud granddad. Thanks a ton, Wags—great update on alJ these guys!

Tom Fernandez (US Army, Col) wrote from Baghdad where as a ‘combat advisor’, he’s the senior advisor to an Iraqi Nat’l Police Division commanding general. They fight as infantry—nothing to do with law enforcement. Tom had -

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lost his best officer but missed Tom. Our sympathies, Tom, to his family and friends. Glad you are okay! Keep your cranium down! See you at the 30th! Thanks for the email.

That does it for this edition. Thanks for reading and “TITANKS” to all those that answered my call for help. Fly ’em safely; keep healthy; make great busi a close call with an IED

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one Humvee away

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Al Wallace in Peru with admirers.

This diatribe addresses nepotism, ’80s ladies, family news and promotions.

Needing intelligence, I thought of calling B / Gen Chuck (Susie) Shugg as Commander oftheJointU nmanned Aircraft Systems Center ofExcellence at Creech AFB, NV While the bean counters want to talk platforms, he keeps reminding them “it’s the information we need.” Instead, I called CS-22 cohort Andrea (Bopp) (Lee ’82) Andersen who is serving as Assistant General Counsel Environment, The Presidio Trust in San Francisco.

Andrea was happy to be “nanny free” as she telecommutes and coordinates with Lee’s Southwest schedule. For her 50th, they are going to Yankee Stadium for the final Angels game. Andrea saw Steve (Karen) Henneberry, the Southwest captain on a recent trip. She heard Julie (Richards) Karl Apfel’s son has

received a Class of T2 appointment. Julie, a hint: nepotism is useless and class relationships don’t help. At last year’s ’82 reunion, I overheard Andrea’s daughter referring to the Commandant, Sue (Peter Lennon) Desjardines, as “Aunt Susie.” My son Eric, (’ll) and fellow '80 PTWOB Derek (Barb) Hess’ son Alex

(’ll) remained in captivity despite my plea for their early release to “Aunt Susie.”

Alex and Eric are scheduled for AM490 this summer. If either makes the parachute team, it would be a first for WOB kids. Derek is traveling around the world promoting the Hawker/ Beechcraft AT-6 to foreign governments. Derek connected with Mike (Connie) McLoughlin getting some Leer Jet mods. Barb and Derek hosted PTWOB Scott German, his wife Linda, and their five children. Scott runs the farm in Imperial Nebraska.

101

I was not surprised that Scott and Linda had adopted two of their children from China. From day one, Scott was a mentor. I then received from Debra

(Dubbe) (David) Gray, this announcement: On April 7th, Jayanthi Alexandra Gray told the Colorado judge who completed her adoption, "Thank you for our family." Congratulations Debra and David!

“/ am BINGO fuel” turning this over to Ed to close. Thanks in advance for your grace. A1 Wallace, alwallace@covad.net.

“Your gift fund team has gained USAFA approval for one, and likely both, ATO memorial installations. Our display will be installed between the CQ

desk and the ballroom stairs in Arnie’s and, probably, on the main room windows adjacent to the ’59 ATO memorial in Doolittle Hall. Those installations will cost about $24,000. I've put the designs in our class section of ZoomieNation—or you can simply write to me. We also voted to endow the

Professional Ethics in Education Representative (PEER) program now, without waiting for all the decisions we hope to get from the AOG. We're working out the details but I expect PEER will receive inflation protected support for at

least 20 years—costing upwards of $240,000. We NEED you to make good on all the pledged donations, so please live up to your promises. Cheers, Ed

Herlik, Herlik@aol.com.”

Rich Trentman 11102 Asbee St.

Falcon, CO 80831-8170 Home: (719) 494-8438 Work: (719) 234-0754

E-mail: trentman@usafa81.com Class Website: www.usafa81.com

Jayanthi, David and Debra Gray Debbie is passionate about the Professional Ethics in Education Representative (PEER) Program (see Ed’s note below). USAFA is the largest PEER program in the BACCHUS Network of schools—having assisted 800 cadets since implementation. The types of issues PEERs typically assist others with mn the gamut of issues ranging from stress management, academic, nutrition and relationship issues, to sexual assault, suicidal ideations, and alcohol abuse.

Speaking of stress: Dan (Laura) BloemernowfliesforUSAirways, on-again, off-again since ’89, and writes, “I can finally hold a junior 737 first officer block.

Hard to believe that I now have as little seniority as I did in early '91, and make less than I did in’01!”

Springtime in Colorado! ItsnowedMaylst-rememberthosedays? Sumjust around the corner and it will be well underway when you are reading this article. The President is coming for graduation which always creates excitement in town. 500 tickets to graduation were offered to the public and gone within minutes. We never had a President come during our four years at mer is

USAFA.

Class News: From the front, Bryan Funke sent me a picture of some aging warriors. John Eunice, Bryan Funke, Brooks Bash, Gary Crowder, and Keith

Anderson were attending a commanders’ conference in A1 Udeid and took time for an ’81 moment. Thanks, guys!

I ran into Sandi (Waples) and Rick (’79) Wallace at the chapel. They spent 10+

years with Mission Aviation Fellowship. Sandi is at home and Rick flies for Alaska as they plan their next big adventure—possible nepotism with their

daughter considering USAFA? Kathy (Bishop) (Donald) Campbell sent an update on Eighties Ladies: Kathy retired to be a stay-at-home mom. Her oldest is at the College of Charleston and the youngest is a high school freshman where Kathy works in the advancement office.

Lorrie (Roemish) (Georges) Bijjani and Deanne (Barnett) (Stephen) Mahoney are stay-at-home moms, and Deanne homeschools her children. Holly (Emrick) (David) Svetz is a partner at Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice. Sue Kohut is Owner and Director of SK Initiatives.

Karen Wilhelm is back to graduate school at Georgetown. Kathy Conley is the Director, Land Forces Division, OSD Program Analysis & Evaluation. Chris (Reasner) (Stephen) Mattingly works for Scitor Corporation, NTIA. Margie (Clark) (BJ) Varuska is a Southwest Pilot, living in Cape Canaveral. Allison (Hilsman) (Robert) Hickey recently retired as a B/Gen, now works for Accenture National Security Services and is an AOG Director. Maureen Tritle is serving as Deputy Director, Innovative Readiness Training Program Management (Reserve Affairs).

Ryan Orian, Vice Wing Commander, 144 th FW in Fresno sent me an email.

Ryan thinks I spend my life partying with our classmates. I don’t knowwhere he gets crazy ideas like that! Michael “Mo” Beale and Ryan led flights of F-16s on a sortie together. Mo should be retired when you read this article and Ryan is hanging tough in sunny central California. Oh, Ryan always reminds me of our younger days RECONDO! I flewto Ft Walton Beach for my parents’ 50th anniversary and ran into Beef Haddad waiting on a flight. Beef looked great and still flies for the Reserve and the airlines. Curt McIntyre haunted me with a picture in the AOG entry to remind me of my days slaving away there. Curt, Tim Bougan, and Dave Scholl -

attended the USAFA Liaison Officer Director Conference. Dave is the director for part of Florida, Curt runs Montana, and Tim lives up the road from me near

Castle Rock. Dave and Curt are captains with Delta. Dave is out of Atlanta and Curt is out of Salt Lake City along with ’81 ers Dave Chapman, Mark Emerson, Mike Odemheimer, John Griffen, and Charlie Rapp. Curt said he and his wife

Eighties Ladies

-

Alive and Well!

Here is the latest on promotions and moves. Paul (Ricki Smith) Selva has

been nominated for his third star and assignment as assistant to the Chairman

oftheJCS. B/Gen Frank (Helen) Kisner has been nominated to the grade of M/ Gen. B/Gen Chris (Rhonda) Miller has been nominated to the grade of M/ Gen. B/Gen Sue Mashiko is movingto Vice Commander, Space and Missile Systems Center, LA AFB. B/Gen Mike (Carol) Moeller has been appointed commanderofthe379thAEWofACCatAlUdeidAB, Qatar. Bruce (Nancy) Townsend was elected Flight Captain of the 34th (Samuel P Langley) Flight,

Langley AFB, VA. 102

Curt McIntyre, Tim Bougan, Dave Scholl

recently sold a dry cleaning enterprise and plans to pool profits with Brian Dominguez for some Hawaiian real estate.

Missy (Mraz) Robbins andTomhave been enjoyingthe slopes in Utah. Their daughter graduated from Swarthmore this year and their oldest son has recovered from a skiing setback. Their lOth-grade son plays hockey and both sons will work as counselors at a ranch in Wyoming this summer. Tom is still flying for Delta and Missy is busy with her business (www.purebohemian.com).

Missy also plans to attend the AcademyWomen’s Rugby reunion in Snowmass this summer.. .busy lady!

Shirley (Hilsgen) Kring and hubby Roy enjoy visiting their twin sons. Both are freshmen in college. Randy is attending Bowdoin College on the coast of Maine and Ryan attends Tufts University north of Boston. Both sons are involved in vocal music groups and Shirley and Roy love to hear them perform.

Shirley and Roy participate as Bedford Minutemen in local parades. RoyplaysthedrumandShirleythefife. Shirleysent me some more reunion pictures, but I’ll be at my article limit, so I’ll post them in our ’81 Class Group area onZoomienation.

Scott Land’s son ended up attending the University of Nebraska on scholarship, which Scott says is hard for a Coloradoboytotake. (Go Big Red) I’m waiting for Scott to send me a picture with him wearing a corn head.

Sabre Society Donors Danny Crews wrote from the cornfield desert called Indiana and reports that all is normal in Normal. Class prezTony Lorusso and Class vp Randy Wo trail sent me short emails to keep in touch and thank me for scribing (translation-keep it up, sucker to quote former scribe Dennis Ward aka “D-day”, whereabouts unknown). Actually, Tony was just back from business in Paris and Randy was talking college basketball smffwith me. Ken Smith reports he was allegedly in the Springs with his wife and son to take him to see the Academy. Hmmm, apparently Ken’s phone was broken.

His son got a tour of USAFAfrom the Vice-Superintendent, a close friend of Ken’s. Obviously, a much closer friend than his squadron mate. Ken’s oldest son, Grant, finished phase 1 of flight school at Vance and is now at Corpus Christi flyingTC- 12s.

My good buddy, Dan Bell, said his youngest has (rightly) decided to attend USAFA. Dan’s oldest son, Dan ’07, also made the “right” choice while his middle son, Mike ’09, well, strayed and attended USNA. Dan is leaving the great state of Michigan for the Commonwealth ofVirginal. Dan, do they play Redwings hockey there? Dan got a promotion with Rockwell Collins and he and Jennifer plan to move after Bobby checks in at USAFA. lanice Gunnoe-Hughes promised to call ifshe and Don make it to the Springs this year. Amy Markert was in LA on business and said that she would send me an update. She also said I was funny. Well, at least we know I’m funny (funny looking). Vicki Sumner wrote that she would be at the AFA graduation and that she had several firsties working on her Joint Test for their CAPSTONE project.

My buddy, Vance Gilstrap, is finishing up school in D.C. and should be back in good old Colorado by the time you read this. Speaking of parties, SamAngelella sent a nice picture from their ’81 Hawaiian Super Bowl party.

—

ence is that I’ve now discovered the seductive

pleasure of paying someone to

cut my grass! Don’t knowwhy it took me so long. I guess I’m just a slow learner...

At any rate, I’ve got an e-mail bag full of news this quarter, so let’s get started.

Chuck Schweiss filled me in on the latest from the Blue Zoo where he’s the Assistant Chief of Intramurals. Chuck traveled an interesting path to land that

job. Chuck’s a pilot for United who retired from the Reserves in 2000, and continued to fly for United. One day in 2004 while commuting from Dulles to Denver, he sat next to Ted Brewer, also a United pilot and the IMA to the Dean.

Ted told Chuck about an opening in the athletic department, recently vacated

by Pete McCaffrey (’82/ ’83). Chuck came out of retirement to jump on the opportunity and has been there for about four years. His boss is George Nelson, a fellow Bulldawg, and Chuck says he’s a very tough boss (NOT)! Chuck gets to teach racquetball, unarmed combat, SCUBA and boxing, and also served as an assistant gymnastics coach. He runs intramurals as well as the BCT Field days.

Chuck passed on names of several other Redtags who are currently at USAFA. Jeff Beene is the vice commandant and Paul Ackerman is the vice superintendent. Gary Packard is 9 a permanent professor, running the behavioral science deSabre Society Donors partment. Dr. Kurt Heppard is a management professor, and Jimmy Dahlmann works in XR But more than that, Chuck has me convinced that his family and in-laws are about to take over the whole game. See if you can follow this quote from Chuck’s letter: “My wife, Susan (Lueken ’83), retired after 20 years. Her last Air Force job was here at USAFA as Chief of Cadet Honor Division. She now works at home caring for our two children, Erik 16 and Sarah 14. Erik is dating General Bob Beckel’s granddaughter, Alex! Alex’s mom is Col (sel) Tish Norman (Dierlam, ’85). Tishwas my wife’s sister’s (Ruth Ann Thompson (Lueken, ’85) roommate in CS-37. Tish is married to Dan Norman (’89). Ruth Ann’s husband, BG(S) John Thompson, 84 (AFMC Chief of Staff) is doing great things for the Air Force at Wright Pat AFB. Lots of incest here.” Sounds like a soap opera plot to me!

Brian Canino wrote from San Diego to fill me in on the latest from his vantage point. After flying CRJs for Northwest Airlink for several years, Brian landed a great gigwith the Defense Acquisition University out in Dan Diego, teaching Test & Evaluation classes to acquisition folks. Brian’s wife, Ellen, pinned on Navy Captain about a year ago and is stationed there running the Navy regional Plant Equipment Office. Brian teaches classes for two weeks a month (sometimes TDY), and does “research” the other two. Of course, that means he gets to read a lot about ships, tanks, munitions and aircraft, as well as watch a lot of the

Military Channel and the History Channel!

Brian and Aidan Canino Skiing near Tahoe.

Sam and Marci, Gene and Barb O’Nale, Chuck and Barb Coghlin, Jim and

Jeanne Long, Dan Wyman, Steve and Mary Reuhl, Marc and Suzanne Luiken I missed the last Senate meeting due to a scouting conflict, but will try to make

the next one. Please join the Class of 1981 group on Zoomienation. We are

slowly joining as a class and pictures, etc. are added there. I continue to thank you for the many emails, pictures, and kind words. I am proud of all that you do! ’81!

Jim Ratti

The Canino Clan: Ellen, Devin, Aidan, and Brian.

2860 Arbor Pointe Drive

Brian sent these pictures ofhis family during a ski vacation they took in March.

Middletown, OH 45042

Devin is A-Vi and is quite the little imp (just like her mom at her age, if you

(937) 760-2333

believe the sources). Aidan is six and is nearly as fast as Dad on the skis. Brian says there’s something to be said for lack of fear and a low CG.

rattijm@mindspring.com http://usafa82.org

Greetings Redtags!

Spring has sprung in Ohio and the grass is growing once again. The differ

It sounds to me like Chris Broyhill also landed a primo job. As oflast Novemher he’s the National Chief Pilot for Sentient Air Group. Sentient bought up 10 separate business jet charter and management companies and is in the process of consolidating all the various operations into one single national certificate.

Chris is right in the middle of things, overseeing about 360 jets and 1,000 pilots.

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He’s checking out in the Gulfstream V/550 and will soon be globetrotting again.

Chris and his wife are living in Delaware with their four children (14,8, and 7year-old twins). Chris says life is “happy but decidedly busy".

As many ofyou have probably heard, another BG list came out in March, and we had another couple winners. Bob Ranck and Craig Olson will soon be pinning on stars and moving on to new responsibilities. Newlywed Bob is currently the Chief of the Program Integration Division, Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans & Programs at the Pentagon. Craig is the Vice Commander of Aeronautical Systems Center at Wright-Pat. Of course there’s no word yet what their next postings will be.

But I was able to glean several tidbits of info from e-mails passed back and forth on Mike Sinisi’s ever-growing mailing list (write to Mike at Mike_Sinisi@sra.com if you’d like to join). For example: Paul and Dianna Ackerly are moving back to San Antonio where Paul will be the Director of Ops for the Air Expeditionary Force Center as it moves down there from Langley.

Rick “Moses” Burgess will be the Defense and Air Attache in Tel Aviv after enduring 16 months of attache and Hebrew language training. So if you go to Israel between Aug 2009 and June 2012, be sure to look him up for a personal tour of the Holy Land. Who better than a guy named “Moses” to show you around! Rick Mraz is a researcher at the Institute for Defense Analyses. BG(S)

friends. This year Karol Welling gets top billing, because she sent a picture having the most ’83ersinit. Karol is a newly-minted Delta 757/767 Captain, and to celebrate the event, she “treated almost 200 family and friends to a fabulous evening of cocktails, dinner and dancing” in Peachtree City, GA. And I’m thinking, why not 202? Where was my invitation? And for all of you out there in Checkpoiii A-Land, did you get an invite? Are we not all Falcons? The way I see

it, Karol is in the red; one serious party to be thrown at the Reunion this fall. All who agree, charge your room service, Red Bull and vodka, and those new danc-

ing shoes to Karol’s credit card, which should have an appropriate airline Captain no-limit! Kidding aside, Karol, congrats, from a mere low-cost carrier FO! Ray is always good for a picture, this time documenting that scarfing down free food is not limited to Georgia, or even North America. On a chance encounter at the breakfast buffet (free food, I might add) on a layover in Buenos Aires, he had to fight with George Cespedes, Rodney Spahn, and Dave Yelken for first in line at the waffle iron and omelet station.. Judging by Dave’s biceps and George and Rod’s pecs, Ray lost miserably, was forced to eat cold bagels, and had to fill out the Form 0-96. Ray is already in heavy training for the rematch at the Reunion, having put himself through a self-administered PFT, and very proud of both pull-ups he did! Sorry Ray, my money is on “Does the UFC/MMA circuit have an over-45 Division” Dave.

Sharon Dunbar is headed back to the Pentagon as the AF/AIM (Air Force Directorate of Manpower and Organization). BG Dave Fadok Florida bound to

be the Director of Strategy, Policy & Plans for Southern Command at MacDill.

Col Mark Baker is the commander of the 730th Air Mobility Squadron at Yokota.

Col Rocky Reiners is currently the Chief, Program Budget and Congressional Division in SAF/AQQX, but will be retiring on 26 June 08,30 years to the day from when we alJ reported for BCT. Peggy (Sherman) Ball is a civilian working in the USAFE J-2 Staff at Ramstein. Carla Gammon moved there in May to be the USAFE A-1. Kim Corcoran is the Vice Commander of the 21 st Expeditionary Mobility Task Force at McGuire.

Finally, I got a note from Brian Collins. He’s a newly-minted PhD on the staff of the National War College, and he managed to turn part of his dissertation into a book. The title is Behind the Cyberspace Veil: The Hidden Evolution of

the Air Force Officer Corps. It's full of graphs and data from the USAF from

1947-2003, showing changes in the USAF and in the officer corps that explain the adoption of the cyberspace mission. It is designed to stimulate thought in the AF Brian says some people may find parts to be provocative. If you’d like to check it out, you might consider asking your library to buy it or get it on inter-library loan. You can contact Brian at Collinsb@ndu.edu for more info.

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Here I am again, out of space! Keep the news flowing, and until next quarter,

besafe.Ratman

Mitchell Hall South America: Ray, George, Rod, and Davefightingforfood at the breakfast buffet in Buenos Aires.

Finding free Food is the theme, I guess, and I’m no slouch in that department.

This airline gig, 2 Vz years now since retirement, gives me ample opportunity to scarf free meals off of classmates. Chris Moulton was the beneficiary of one such scarfism. Brenda, daughter Kendal, and I invaded his domain at Scott AFB last Memorial Day, dragging him to a Cardinals game with us, and basi-

Jon

Duresky

207 Knob Hill Drive Warner Robins, GA 31088

(H) (478) 953-3141 (C) (478) 396-7787 DureskyJB@aol.com

Ray Blust proudly proclaimed in his article in last quarter’s Checkpoints that he is still driving his cadet car, a one each issue Camaro, with a challenge to find out if anyone else is still driving said ’83-era car. You win, Ray, my mighty cadet Duster only lasted 15 years. I do have a much better ’83 era “souvenir,” (couldn’t think of another word) my “Academy girlfriend,” now wife of 25 years, Brenda.

I’m sure there are a bunch of us who celebrated on 2 Jun 2008,25 years of wedded bliss. And for those who forgot.. .hey, we’re getting old, and memory loss is bound to happen. Apologize, buy the 25 roses and some Bailey’s, turn off the cell phone, turn on the Barry White CD, and then you finish the rest of the sentence. Anyway, congrats to all of you out there, celebrating your Silver.

Okay, the sentimental mush is done, now on to the many adventures of our

cally laying waste to his house. Chris had just returned from his two-year class B tour to Dyess AFB, and is currently warming a chair someplace at AMCHQ. His college age children are nothing like Chris. They are intelligent, goodlooking, and cultured, thanks to Bi Moulton, his wonderful wife of only 23 years, and by far the constant in that upbringing. Anyway, thanks, Chris, for the AF hospitality.

John and Monica Zazworsky also had the opportunity to get out the good china and cutlery when I invited myself to their house on a layover. John was the vice Wing CC at McConnell, and was dying to show off the lap of luxury base house the AF provides for an 0-6. Full tornado-proof basement and a huge yard to cut, plus a govt-issued computer so he can continue to work at home after he leaves the office. What a deal! We drank wine and ate food, his middle school age daughter made nametags directing us where to sit, then after dinner his kids cleared the dishes and without being told, went to the den to do homework! Zazworsky

family for President. John’s next great adventure—standing

16 Sabre Society Donors

up the first-ever international C-17 Wing in Papa, Hungary.

And you just thought I was kidding in about my last 15 columns about him someday ruling the world! So now John is re-qualling in the C-17 (piece of cake for him, a former IP), and learning Hungarian (not so easy,

he claims); then the overseas PCS logistical hurdle with a family and two large dogs. And he might still try to make it to the Reunion, so we can hear about his adventures firsthand, and Karol Welling can buy us all drinks as we listen in

spellbound rapture.

Brad Gutierrez responded favorably to my emailed demand for updates on classmates. Brad retired in 2006, last assignment in Budapest, Hungary (yes, he was fluent in Hungarian, and Zaz is jealous!); he is currently the Sr. International Advisor for the Ops Directorate of the Dept of Homeland Security. Very impressive. Brad passes along: General Gary Harencak (first star of many he will wear, count on it) is theWingCC of the B-2 Wing atWhiteman AFB; Steve Cox is a full-time JetBlue pilot and part-time farmer in North Carolina, and Bubba Mcllwain retired in Little Rock, and is working C-130 contract issues.

I had a nice chat with Eli Powell the other day. He is the hospital CC at Elmendorf AFB, and is facing the crisis of an AF doctor nearing the end of a glorious career and living in Alaska—should he get out, practice in Anchorage Karol and the Karol-ettes, at her Delta promotion party to 757/767Captain;

free drinks andfood + dancing-muchfun.

104

and make millions, go to the lower 48 and make millions, stay in the AF and become the Surgeon General, or move to Nome and train full-time for the

Itidarod? My response—we’ll discuss it further at the Reunion while Karol Welling continues to buy us all drinks.

Bob Ulich and Vince Compagno (Delta pilots, both living in the ATL area) know howto scarf free food, courtesy of me! They came to my daughter Kendal’s wedding in March and we all had a great time. The star of the reception, other than Kendal the beautiful Bride, was Vince’s daughter Rachel. That girl can dance! AndVince is pretty light on his toes, too, so they were quite a pair! And gregarious Bob was friends with everyone by the end of the night. Just curious—has anyone else had a son or daughter get married, or am I the first one?

Email me ifyou have a son- or daughter-in law, and I’ll make sure a picture gets in the next article. For you facing the wedding event in the “before you know it” category, be ready with the tissues, and don’t sniffle too loudly when the bride and groom exchange vows! Also, wedding cake calories do not count on the beach body diet, so dig in!

squadron commander tour in July 2006 which included two successful deployments to Iraq and a few other places. He was promoted to 0-61 May2007.

After command, Keith was originally sent to Davis Monthan AFB in Tucson, AZ but after 10 months was sent to South Korea. Keith said by the time you read this bit of news, he could have another assignment for summer 2008.

Mike Taylor, US Navy 0-6, sent a couple more e-mails (late-January and early April) from his one-year assignment in Iraq. Mike said he learned that it’s really tough to be apart from your family.. .beyond the standard Navy six-month tour.

No doubt, those of us with families can agree that family is everything. Mike also said that he learned how tough it is to deploy as an individual instead of as a whole unit. Fortunately he had some good family friends to help look after his family while he was away so they didn’t feel completely abandoned. Mike said he worked with some awesome people from different countries and services during his year in Iraq, but he’s glad that he’ll be back home by the time you read this article.

At least Mike got to take leave back in the states for a while and

got see his family during the year. Mike found out that he screened for Major Command in November while he was home on leave, and then got word that he will be going to the Littoral Combat Ship Class Squadron as the deputy and then the Commander about a year later. Mike said all in all, it is an

Kendal’s Wedding Reception: Three Old Men; One Smiling Big Brother Jeff; and Brenda, Kendal, and Rachel Compagno thinking, “Don’t hate us because

we’re Beautifid!

Get those calendars out, and circle 5-8 November! Those are the days for our 25-Year Reunion and you don’t want to be left out of the fun and we

gossip, as

attempt to turn back the hands of time, act like the childish cadet still inside

us, and say to ourselves the next morning—I sure hope “What happens in

Colorado Springs, stays in Colorado Springs,” which is just too bad if you happen to live in CoS. Maybe ifyou Springs-Dwellers help out Karol with her bar bill, the rest of us won’t post any “compromising pictures of Senior Officers and Distinguished Retirees who make Colorado Springs their home” on YouTube. Anyway, the schedule of events is on the AOG website, at USAFA.org.

Point and click on the appropriate boxes for the latest info.

Time and space are up. Get out that old cadet gear, if it still fits, to proudly wear at a party or two in November. If it is waaaayyy too tight, well, still plenty of time to trim and tone! See y’all soon!

Jon Duresky

Mike Jensen

12035 Milam Road Colorado Springs, CO 80908

(800) GO-AFA-GO michaeljensen@remax.net www.usafa84.com

exciting job that he is really looking forward to. Mike said the first two LCS ships are looking like they will deliver to the Navy this summer so there will be a lot to do in terms of getting them ready to operate with the rest of the fleet. Mike said it’s an exciting time and a chance to stay in San Diego and help his boys get settled, especially since James will graduate from High School this summer. Mike said he is really looking forward to the opportunity to spend some time with Morgan and James over the coming years.

Kevin and Wendy Routhier sent their annual Easter family newsletter. Kevin said overall, they’ve stayed busy since last Easter with some of the usual and some new events: a couple of trips to the New River in western Virginia (to relax and work on the caboose bunkhouse); a church camping trip (fun fellowship with faith-filled friends and family); a fun trip to New England in July to visit family; a few quick trips to college to move Caleb in; many local trips to finish off a house to flip (now they just need a buyer...the market is slow); a father-son trip to Alabama for TeenPact Challenge with Josiah (basically a Christian “boot camp” and leadership training time); a family trip in January to D.C. with Wendy’s mom, dad and aunt Janice (ahomeschool field trip on steroids); and ending with a family trip to Florida for time at the beach with Wendy’s parents and brother. They also got to visit Kevin’s sister Susan, brother Glenn, sister-in-law Audrey, niece Elizabeth, and their cousins Bob and Kathy Link while down in gator territory. On a sad note, Kevin said his father died at 80 years old. We’re sorry about that. Kevin also said their 89-

year-old grandmother-like neighbor died. We’re also sorry to hear about that. But on a happier note, Kevin said they have also enjoyed time with the various folks that have stopped by to visit them (either planned, happened to be in the area, or just passing through). The Routhiers gave an open invitation to visit them (“If you are going to be near Richmond, VA, just call to see if we’ll be home, and we’d love to see you, too.”).

I had the privilege to attend the wedding of Jackie Charsagua and Danny

Garcia on Sunday 6 April 2008 in Purcellville, VA. Congratulations Jackie and

Danny! It was a unique wedding and everyone had a great time. Danny works with the Global Walk Foundation (http://www.globalwalk.cc/).

From time to time I check in with Jack Anthony ’78, and one ofthe last times I called him he’d been at a track meet where Del Christman had a son compet-

ing. Jack later sent Del an e-mail with a “cc” to me and Ched Jones so we could

(10 Sabre Society Donors) (Editor’s note: We did not receive an inputfrom Mikefor this issue. Please send him your information and photosfor the next magazine.)

Frank

“Q.” Williams

13209 Topsfield Court

Herndon, VA 20171

(703) 657-3227 USAFA1985@aol.com

catch up with one another.

George Weathersby sent me an e-mail with a biography attached that he found for Colonel Chevalier “Chevy” Cleaves who is now the Director of Admissions at the academy. In case you missed it, there was an article on a conference hosted by the Admissions office for Academy Liaison Officers on pages 50-51 of the March 2008 Checkpoints. They mention Chevy in the artide. Later, George came back from overseas for almost two weeks and we went to a Washington Nationals baseball game on 3 April 2008. It was a beautiful spring day and George and I were able to enjoy the fact that, in spite of themselves, the Nat’s beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 9-8.

Well, that’s it for now. Until next time.. .take care. Quintel

Gary Burg 3511 Hollyberry Circle Anchorage, AK 99507 (907) 677-6050 lce492FS@yahoo.com

Hi fellow ’85ers, family members and friends

It’s great to get back in touch with you all. I hope you are enjoying an awesome spring and looking forward to an outstanding summer.

Keith Lambert sent a beautiful Christmas card, but it arrived after the holi-

days so I didn’t get to mention anything from it last time. So I’ll start with this.

After being “out of print” for a couple of years, “The Lambert Ledger” came back chocked full of Lambert family stories. Keith is stationed at Yongsan Army Garrison in downtown Seoul, South Korea. It’s an accompanied tour so Keith’s wife, Faye, and their son Marcus are with him, but their daughter Keitha stayed in the states to complete her senior year. Keith is the Deputy Commander there, working for an Army Brigadier General. Keith completed a two-year

This is one last warfront correspondence from your part-time class scribe.

By the time it is my turn to write the next column, I’ll be back in the good olde USA. No more trips to Kandahar, Bagram or Baghdad. Been there, done that,

got the t-shirt.

105

USNORTHCOM/J6, Peterson Air Force Base. July 2003

June 2005, Commander, 15th Communications Squadron, Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.

July 2005 June 2006, Student, Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base. July 2006 Present, Special Assistant for Senior Officer Matters, Secretary of the Air Force, Office ofWarfighting Integration and Chief Information Officer, the -

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Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

The CAOC Combat Plans Team from left are Jonathan French, ’05; Gary Burg, ’86; George German, ’93; and Rick Bell, ’86.

I’ll start off with news from the front. I’ve twisted some arms to get feedback but you have to do what you have to do. I see Col Bill Thomas on a daily basis.

He is the A3 Director for the CAOC here at A1 Udeid. He wrote me an email

(BTW, his first for Checkpoints), “I ran into Richard Clark as he passed through the CAOC in April while on his way to Multi-National Forces-Iraq. He just finished as the WG/CC at Randolph AFB. Rich Scobee, the WG/CC of the Reserve wing at Luke, also passed through the CAOC in April and will be TDY to OIF to be AEG/CC at KRAB. Back in January, John Homer, DWG/CC at Kirkland,

through the Deid and stopped by to see me. As for myself, I finished up spring. I’m on the way to be the MSG/CC at Seymour Johnson. I have two daughters in college (Radford U and ECU) and two daughters starting high school.”

The next arm I twisted was from Lt Col Rick Bell. Rick recently arrived at the CAOC and works as a Night MAAPer in the Combat Plan Division. An ironic thing is that in my current job position, MAAP Chief, Rickworks for me. I’m sure that won’t last long as Rick is a fast burner and I’m an old flame. I typed as Rick dictated (so who’s really in-charge), “In my first correspondence in 22 years, I managed to keep the same wife and have three wonderful kids, Rachel is 17, Ricky 14, andWilliamis9. We’re living the life at Langley AFB while I work at ACC HQ after spending the previous 18years in the B-52 community. I’menjoyingthe mini-class reunion at the Deid. It’s amazing how many people pass though this place. Ice isn’t that bad to work for, considering how old he is.”

The last update from the AOR but not here at A1 Udeid is my old roommate came

as the A3 Director in the CAOC at A1 Udeid this

Dave Tuck. Dave writes, “OK, OK... I am Chief of Plans and Programs for the

380th AEW at A1 Dhafra, UAE. I have been here since January, and upon my return, will resume flying the friendly skies of United. Attached is a picture of

making friends with the natives.” I would have expected a little more from English Major but I’ll take what I can get. At least he sent a nice photo.

me an

From left are Col. (USAF, Ret) Michael Gardiner (USAFA, ’80, brother), LTC (USA, Ret) Sandy Caughlin (sister-in-law), Susan Gardiner (wife), Taylor Gardiner (daughter), Ryan Gardiner (son), and me, Col. Von Gardiner.

Heading to 8 AF to be the Director of Operations for AFNetOps this summer.

Like you, being here at the Pentagon, I run into lots of folks every day--too

many to recall.

Bob passed me an email he received from Bruce Way. Bruce writes, “Hope everything is going well for you and your family. We had another baby after we arrived at Minot (Nigel, 18 months) and wanted to give him a playmate we hadn't counted on gettingthree! Melissa and the babies are all doing great. In more than the Brady Bunch. We case you' re counting, that makes seven7 kids are most definitely done. In other class news, Darren Wilson will soon be -

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heading to USAFA to teach. If you didn't know (and if it hadn't been previously reported) he got out of the Air Force for a while then got back in after what he refers to as "The Great Poverty Experiment". Shawn Fleming recentiy retired and got a job offer to work for Flight Safety in Tucson not 100% sure if he plans -

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to take it, but he did put an offer in on a house.

Back in December I received an email with photo from Ed Yong. I wasn't able to add the photo (already hit my limit of three) but I did want to announce his

good news. Ed has a new addition to his wonderful family.

Baby (Kyle) was born on 12 Dec 07 at 2005 hrs. Ed, aren’t you getting a little too old for sleepless nights? Hopefully you are back to a normal sleep pattern but the time you read this.

The last update for this edition came from Lawrence Cooper. He wrote, “I thought it's about time I gave up an update. It's been almost 10 years since I became a contractor and have been working for several DoD orgs in the Washington DC area such as the Joint Staff J8. After a close-call at the Pentagon during 9-11,1 hiked up the BWI Expressway and spent four years at Ft Meade. Then I got a golden opportunity to work in the Defense Intelligence Analysis Center at Bolling -1 became part of the original cadre standing up the Defense Joint Intelligence Operations Center (DJIOC), the lead DoD organization for intel ops, and as a senior

policy analyst helped create their Strategy and Policy shop. But things didn't get really interesting until a few months ago DJIOC and JFCC-ISR merged into the new Defense Intelligence Operations Coordination Center. That's when USAFA grads began popping up everywhere. I had already been running into Rich Chancellor quite a bit, but now one of my fellow CS-24ers, Kim Sievers (Baumann) took over the JFCC-ISR Strategy & Programs office, where we've been working together on a daily basis (she's been an O6 for some time and is one of the senior officers at DIOCC/JFCC-ISR). My new Office Chief is Rob Bussian, ’85 and I've been doing some work with A1 Williams, the STRATCOM LNO for ISR. I do most of the space systems/ space policy here and as part of that function I keep running across Mary Matusiewicz who is working space requirements on Air Staff. And then it gets more interesting back when I was at AFSPACE, I did a lot ofwork with Q Williams, ’85. He recently retired, but took a job out here with Boeing -

-

,

Dave Tuck in the UAE.

My update from Von Gardiner reads more like a job resume but does cut down on extra words so works for me: July 1986 Oct 1986, student, Basic Communications-Electronics Course, Keesler Air Force Base. Oct 1986 Sept -

-

1990, project leader/program manager, Headquarters Strategic Air Command,

Strategic Communications Division, Offutt Air Force Base. Sept 1990

-

March

1993, flight commander, 96th Communications Squadron, Dyess Air Force March 1994, wing executive officer, 7th Wing, Dyess. March 1994 July 1997, flight commander, 31 st Combat Communications Squadron,

Base. March 1993

-

-

3d Combat Communications Group, Tinker Air Force Base. July 1997

-

July

1999, action officer, Directorate of Communications and Information, Headquarters Air Combat Command, Langley Air Force Base. July 1999 July 2001, Commander, 35th Communications Squadron, Misawa Air Base, Japan. July 2001 July2003, Chief, Future Concepts and Director's Action Group, NORAD-

-

106

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before I got the chance to recruit him. However, he hooked me up with

Jackie Charsagua '85 (also a former CS-24er) and now she is working for my company at DISA (go to www.KeplerResearch .com). On the personal front, you can my wife Mary and I now have added a daughter to our family check us all out athttp://CoopersAtoZ.blogspot .com/. She's just turned --

three and my son just turned 12. Also I am the secretary for the AOG Space Group. We have a presence at http://usafaspace.tripod.com/, but you can also find us onZoomienation.”

Bob’s got the next column so PLEASE drop him a line and let him know what

youareuptoo. His email is RKASColella@cox.net or Colella, RobertAColJCS J63 [Robert.Colella@js.pentagon.mil]. Next time!

mate, Nicole (Berry) Miller, who should be recognized for starting the trend of showing us how you are using your class coozy that we received at the

Ezra Vance 7320 Brixham Circle

”

reunion. I think this will generate a lot of interest and some great stories too.

Thanks for the photo Chris; next time why not include a little update about yourself and your wife.

Castle Rock, CO 80108 Home: (303) 6885431

Work: (303) 304-1287 ezravance@hotmail.com

Wings From Heaven, I hope this class update finds you well and in good health and spirit. My input for this edition of Checkpoints is brief and short and I am facing the issue that Sharon warned me about, very little input from my classmates. After this short article, I will not have any new update material to include in the next issue. So if you are reading this and you don’t see your name, the names of people you know, or names of anyone you recognize, then maybe it is time for you to sit down and spend a few minutes to send me an update. I recall an important lesson I learned from my freshmen year: I can help you but I can’t carry you. I can get your pretty faces published in nationally distributed magazine, but in order to make you famous, I need something to work with.

My first update comes from Kurt and Malia (Bell) Spranger.

Kurt and I recently attended the presentation of the Bronze Star medal to Lt Col Tracey M. Meek. She is presently stationed at CENTCOM in the Joint Security Directorate. Tracey was awarded the Bronze Star medal for exceptionally meritorious service as Commander, Provincial ReconstructionTeam (PRT) Gardez, Combined Joint Task Force-82, International Security Assistance Force, Forward Operating Base Gardez, Afghanistan, in support of OEF. Congratulations to Tracey for this outstanding achievement and recognition. The citation that accompanies the award speaks very highly ofher leadership and resolute decision making under tremendous pressure. I am certain that Tracey’s family is extremely proud ofher and as we are all as one of our own is recognized for making such an outstanding contribution to our country. The photo is of Tracey with her family shortly after receiving the Bronze Star.

Dave Hollenbach also sent in the photo taken at the reunion. Bottom Row: Roe Jones, Josh Auzenne, Larry Graham, David Hollenbach, andBalanAyyar.

Top Row: Eric Kreul, Joe Holmes, Eddie Kostelnik, and Scott Reynolds.

On a closing note, I want send out a great big congratulations to my former roommate and friend. Earlier this year, Eric Boe learned that he would be

Brad Burchett sent in this photo of seven ’87ers who were in attendance at the

Department ofAstronautics 50th anniversary dinner held in March at Doolittle Hall. This has to be the best showing of any alumni class. From left are Kirk

Emig, who is currently at Nellis, Chito Parong who is with Analytical Graphics Incoporated, Elsa Bruno who is a consultant/contractor with the Astro Department SSRC in Space Systems Engineering, L.C. Coffey who is the USAFA 2nd Group AOC, Mike Bettner who is an instructor in the Astro Dept, and will be soon heading to McGuire to fly the C- 1 7, Brad Burchett who is the Visiting professor this semester in Astro, and Alex Giczy who is the Commander of Det 7, Edwards Research Site, AFRL.

Chris Simpson sent me this short little note and photo ofNicole (Berry) Miller.

“Like so many people experienced, my wife (Roxy) and I had an absolute blast at the reunion. It made me remember just what a quality class we have a class made of super people. On that note, I'm forwarding a photo of my squadron -

-

taking his first ride into space piloting the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Eric was selected as a pilot by NASA in July 2000. Eric reported to the Johnson Space Center in August 2000. Following the completion of two years of training and evaluation, he was assigned technical duties in the Astronaut Office Advanced Vehicles Branch and Station Operations Branch. He next served as Director of Operations, Russia. Eric is assigned as pilot on STS-126 targeted for launch in October, 2008. Endeavour will carry a reusable logistics module that will hold supplies and equipment, including additional crew quarters, a second treadmill, equipment for the regenerative life support system and spare hardware.

A group of us are planning a trip to watch Eric slip the surly bonds of earth and fling in his eager craft through footless halls of air. Eric, may God bless you and protect you my friend. You have never ceased to amaze me. I am in awe ofwho you are and who you have become. I hope to hear from more of you and until next time, Check Your Six.

Mark Peters

2437 Bedford Circle

Bedford, TX 76021-1823

(817) 937-9696 pylt@yahoo.com

Greetings ’88!

I’m ever so slighdy over the word limit, so let’s dive in. Joe Mazur sent an email with a list of his recent travels. “I just returned from a 2+ week trip to complete an assessment of the ECONS in the CENTAF AOR looking at whether there were any indications of contracting fraud similar to what the Army has experienced in Kuwait and Iraq. The good news is that it looks like we're doing a good job with our contracting—the bad news is that I didn't mn into too many grads!” Joe also sent along a picture from his wedding and recent retirement. “I'm on terminal leave prior to retirement in June. I'll be leaving the Air Staff and joining Orbital Sciences Corp in Dulles VA as a Director of Business Development for their Advanced Space Group. I actually start on April 28th. Kevin Missar will be retiring in September from the National Reconnaissance Office's Advanced System's and Technology Directorate and will be staying in the Northern Virginia area. I received an email from Steve Nessmiller, and he indicated that he is also looking for a post-retirement job in the area, he's currently working at the Space & Missile Systems Center.”

107

Should be fun and I hope many of us are able to attend.” In a follow-up email Kip advised, “Have also had the pleasure oftalking to/seeingMike Plehn on VTCs. He is at Cannon dealing with the transfer of the base from ACC to AFSOC. I imagine he is one busyhombre, but always a pleasant disposition!”

Kip can be found at: ruftrain@aol.com.

Brendan Mikus sent an update; his contact info is at the end. “Well, there have been many changes in the Mikus Family since we last communicated over two years ago. I am still handicapped from the accident almost five years ago now, but I also have custody of my son, Uriah! Yipeee! We moved here to Colorado last year, and settled near my family, with parents up the road in Canon City, and lots of aunts, cousins, etc. here in the Pueblo area. He and I are temporarily ‘batching’ here in our own rented place waiting on Medicaid and too.

other services. Man, being dual handicapped is TOUGH! There really isn't much help out there for us, at least nothing

faster than other families have to go through. I would love a job, if anyone in a boss position has an opening! About $42k a year would be an OK start, but I've worked for

“The photo is from my wedding in Las Vegas in September, 2006. From left

Jeff Banks (89), Tracy Lorenz (Healy) (96), Bill Dains (00), my wife Ives and me, Jeff Cyr (88), Todd Tofaute (88), Don Raines (86), Kevin Missar (88), Chris Dawson (92), Troy Giese (93), and Jo Anne Pinney (88).” are

Gary Olson also dropped me a short note. “A long, long time since we last spoke; cannot believe we are coming up on 20 years! As a lifetime member now with AOG I’m finally getting Checkpoints and updates. Thanks for sharing where folks are. I just attended 25-year retirement ceremony last week for a very good friend with whom I served on many global deployments, and I also connected with some ’89 friends who ran in the same circle at Ft. Belvoir. I

definitely plan on attending our 20th reunion; planning on bringing family, wife (Susan), and three daughters. I have not been back to the Springs since a cross

country in ’89 from Reese AFB.” Gary can be reached at: gary.olson

@sun.com.

Here’s a photo and blurb sent courtesy of Jo Anne Pinney.

“How proud Anne (Parker) Krause and I were to be there when Van Ovost took command of the 12th FTW at Randolph! Here we are with Jackie and her

husband, Alan, after the ceremony. Can you believe that her ‘hot line’ was ringing while she was in the receiving line? What a far cry from CCQ duty!

Thought you'd be as proud as we are of our fellow Bulldawg. I received a retirement invitation from Phil Cole out at Nellis who retired in February. I was sorry I had to miss the Caribbean-themed shindig that he and his wife, Donna, put together. I also received a retirement invitation from John Macdonald at Moffett Field. He retired in April and he and his family plan on moving back to Colorado after he retires.”

Kip Turain checked in recently. “Hope all is well with you. Last night we

$50k and that

is better! I tried teaching at a school for troubled ‘youts’ in Canon City, but that didn't work out. So if anyone needs a

brilliant historian with teaching experience, combat service, with a brownie point for hiring a gimp, CALL ME! I ran into fewer and fewer people at Dyess before I left. One of the last was Buster, and I saw in the March Checkpoints he is the reunion boss, so I gave him a call from the blue. One benefit of my present situation is that I can spend lots of time getting my son Uriah included into his third-grade class room. I now have lots of special education experience and I am going to be ruthless in pursuit of his education. He's a very bright kid, just penned up in an uncooperative body. Being a dual handicapped family has its benefits, though I can't think of any right now. My younger brothers are still doing well. Brian is boss of the 7th MUNS down in Texas at Dyess. He's really doing well, though baldness looks better on me! Shannon is off teaching Saudis about C-130 Maintenance for a while. It's actually a good posting, as he works with the big rank over there. I am really proud of both of them.

“Here's a picture of Uriah and me at my parent's house last Christmas. Well, we're getting older, can't wait to see all of us!” Brendan “Bull” Mikus can be reached at: brendanmikus@hotmail.com.

Be sure to put the reunion on your calendar (12-15 November)! Buster Stamper is looking for Reunion Reps for the following squadrons: 4,8,11,17, and 38, and additional volunteers to work schedule/activities, child care, golf and a ski/ride trip (if there’s enough interest). Lastly, Rich Frampton has a great idea for a reunion magazine and would appreciate your help (and adverrising dollars); contact him through Buster at: stampers6@msn.com.

Paul W. Tibbets,

IV

PSC 80, Box 76 AP0 AE, 09702 Home: 011-32-2-251-2772

attended Cori (Mosier) Culver's Retirement Cocktail Party in DC. She is head-

E-mail:

ing to Arizona to be with her

p2a2@skynet.be

hubby, Curt, and plans to enter nursing school.

Mary (Noehl) Boucher emceed the event (as any good former roommate

Class web site: http://www

would!) and shared some entertaining stories about cadet days with Cori. Also

usafaclasses.org/1989/

able to attend was Kevin Berkompas who returned that afternoon from a trip to Hungary. Kevin works in SAF/IA and enjoys the job, but his eyes lit up when

he started talking about the fact that his wife is expecting in May! I've run into Tim Budd around the Pentagon too as he works at Joint Staff. I always enjoy

catching up with my roommate, Dave (and wife, Desiree) Argyle. They live in New Jersey and when not attending their two kids’ events Dave flies for Southwest, as well as the KC-10 Reserve unit at McGuire. Pretty cool to follow Frank Schmuck as he launches into local politics in the Phoenix area. I always wished I had his energy—best of luck Frank! I' ve been at the Air Staff since last summer, in Personnel, working rated force issues. We just found out we are heading to Travis AFB sometime soon. Based on my performance, I imagine the Personnel world will withhold any version of a Personnelist’ badge I may be eligible for! We've been at Travis twice before and looking forward to getting back into the flying world. Jeff Hunt e-mailed from halfway around the world to solicit help in working our class 20-year reunion gift. A thanks to Buster Stamper in advance for all he is doing for the reunion, being stationed in Colorado Springs, ‘

108

Greetings classmates! As mentioned the last couple issues, we continue forward with the fundraising for our 20th reunion class gift project. And many of you have already been very generous! Calling is now complete and we have raised approximately $100,000 of our $ 150,000 goal, or nearly 70%. On behalf of all the class officers we

deeply appreciate all those who have made the deci-

sion to support and pledge gifts, showing in a small way what a class can do for the USAFA that did so much for us.

Money

will go towards our Heritage Trail plot where we will honor

6

Kevin Shea, pavers for all our fallen classmates and several

Sabre Society Donors

cadet programs. Please send in your pledges as soon as possible as the work on the bust for Kevin cannot begin until the funds are received. Also, this would be a good time to call other classmates you know and encourage them to give. For those still considering whether or not to give, we need your help! Please consider contributing to this very worthy

Additionally, many of our parents have donated to cadet programs in the past and would give to our class gift fund if they were aware of it. Let’s spread the word!! More information can be found at our class web site listed cause.

James Sanchez 8301 Emerald Circle

at the beginning of this article, or you can contact our class gift POC, Maj Alex

North Richland Hills, TX 76180

“Gonzo” Gonzalez-Rojasatgonzo5insp@hotmail.com. We look forward to a

Cell: (817) 881-6357

great reunion! On to the news.

Web: WWW.USAFA90.COM

Gil Petrina dropped us a line from Virginia where he still enjoys living in Williamsburg with his wife, Carolyn, and daughter Kelley. Gil bumped into

alohatiger@gmail.com

Mark Swentkofske while in San Antonio and sees Frank Souza every once in awhile in the halls of ACC. He recently spoke to his roommate, Jim Breck, who is having fun as the DO of aV-22 squadron at Kirkland. Thanks Gil!

Doug Bugado just moved to Dover where he’s the Deputy Mission Support Group commander.

Gil and Kelley enjoying the fall in Williamsburg.

the 79 FSTigers from Shaw. From left in the photo are me "Curse", Tom "Cy"

I am working with a couple ’89 grads here at NATO. Ryan Smith is in charge

Klopotek, Shane" Spam" Riza and Beach" Slap" Curtis. We are wearing the traditional Korean Fighter pilot garb the party suit.

This time we don’t have many updates Normally I ask for Checkpoints updates about a week before they’re due, but I forgot this time sorry about that. I’m almost 40 years old and my memory is failing.

The other issue on my plate concerns the Paul Comeau memorial. So far we’re looking at the idea of donating money and doing something for the USAFA Gymnastics Team. My

Steve Platt: Mini-Mighty ’90 reunion while at Kunsan. I am deployed with

of Nuclear Policy for the US Military Delegation and having fun in Belgium with his wife, Kelli (Owen), and daughter Lauren. John Shapland is across the hall in the US Mission as the executive assistance to the defense advisor and also enjoying his time overseas with wife, Laura. The Tibbets family is having a great time in Europe and trying to take advantage ofthis opportunity to travel!

--

-

-

—

idea is to create a travel endowment for the team. The way endowments typically work is that as a class we first raise X dollars. We then ask the AOG to manage the endowment and they grant 5% of the endowment amount every year forever. I may be wrong on the details, but this is generally correct, and I think the “Paul Comeau Memorial Travel Endowment” has a nice ring to it. Please let me know what you think.

In other news, the eDodo just celebrated its 10th anniversary. Ten years of immature, occasionally humorous web comics (and we just got blocked at the Academy again). That’s the same as 70 in web-site years...

Carson Tavenner

6828 Raccoon Court

Waldorf, MD 20603

Avery, Paul, Angelle and Paul enjoy a walk between cities on the Cinque

(202) 231-2484 DSN: (312) 428-2484 Home: (301) 374-2752

Terre trail on the western coast ofItaly.

Hold on to your seats.. .two of our classmates are retired! Doug Malone, fin-

ishing up his time in Germany, and Gonzo, our class gift POC, both received their commissary pins recently and are readying for civilian life! I will pass along more info and a photo from Mugsy Malone’s retirement in ttie next issue. Gonzo has been hired to work at Flight Safety International in San Antonio where he will teach military pilots to fly the C-26 Metroliner. Congrats to you both!

tavenner@hotmail.com

DearBoldGold, my howtime flies. I would love to sit and pontificate and take time to go over all the mail you have sent me. But I’m going to have write this like an e-mail from work and keep it short. This past Monday, I had the pleasure of lunch with some of our classmates in Roselyn. Karen Stoff recently returned form Afghanistan. She was working with Army logisticians trying to explain to them that, “No, you can’t just have all the air-to ground missiles you want. Funny thing, Karen was working with some limited supply issues. We’re glad she’s back; next item on her agenda is to take up command with the logis”

-

tics readiness Squadron at Ramstein AFB, Germany. Also at

the lunch were Steph Brinley, Kevin Kennelly, and Diane

Higginbothem. Diane helped set up the lunch which was a great help especially given that she only now comes in on Mondays with her reserve job. She and Gary live up near Manassas, I believe, where they are enjoying life with their three children. Most of the

Lt Col Tex Hennigan, Gonzo and Lt Col Pat Burke atari Inter-American Air Forces Academy ceremony.

That’s a wrap for this quarter. On a side note, we are trying to expand our class web site, so please send some photos and short comments on your activities to our web master, Scott Shinberg, at scott.shinberg@gmail.com. We will post these on the Class History section. Best wishes to you and your families.

Take care and God bless.

lunch conversation seem to center around the idea (and the fact) that we have all become or started to look like those officers that we once as cadets thought were so old. Well, I sure don’t feel old!

I have also recently been in touch with Lynn Gawell: she is enjoying life at Wright-Patt with her various programs and responsibilities. Here in the DIA HQ buildingwith me is Farris Elnasser who works on projects... I can’t tell you about, but he and I have enjoyed each others’ company recently over a few lunches. I hope that many ofyou are doing the same. Seems like whenever we visit we find that we are all encouraged or frustrated by the same things. Many apologies to those I have neglected to mention here. No time left! See you next time Carson 109

James S. Mehta

Asia. Unfortunately, their adventure is coming to an end and the Suttons are

3802 Elbert Ave.

headed back to DC this summer where Dave will be on the JCS. I hope this column finds you all healthy and prosperous. I know ’92 will

Alexandria, VA 22305

(703) 697-4511; DSN: 227-4511 james.mehta@ogn.af.mil jamesmehta@pentagon.af.mil jamesmehta@earthlink.net True Blue '92! Great news, I have heard from a lot of you this time, so you don' t have to read my creative attempts to fill space. I guess my pleas have not

continue to do great things out there whether it be in the AF or in other endeav-

Don't forget to take a moment to stop and appreciate what you have and the impact you are making. Oh, and take a minute to write and tell me about it, too. And, just in case you are feeling too good about yourself, realize that our graduation was a distant 16 years away! That will make you feel a little older.

Take care and I'll conclude the way I started: True Blue ’92. James. ors.

fallen on deaf ears so I will get right to it or I will run out of space. Along with the e-mails, I have run into a lot ofyou here and there.

Pentagon sightings. I continue to run into classmates in and around the Pentagon. I regularly see Todd McDowell in AFCYBER planning meetings. Todd started out in AFOSI and then got his law degree and is currendy in AF/JA. Also, I recendy got that “Hey, I know that guy!” feeling walking back to my office after a meeting. John Bostwick was here doing some Reserve time in SAF / AQ. Unfortunately, it was his last day and he was heading home to his real life so we didn't have a chance to have lunch together. In his real life, he is a program manager for Rockwell Collins in Iowa working government contracts. He and his family are doing great in Iowa and he gets to come out to DC periodically for his Reserve duty—so he's got the best ofboth worlds.

The Inbox. Sean Lawler sent me an email from New Jersey where he is working hard as a Special Agent for the DEA in the New Jersey Division. Sean separated from active duty three years ago and went through the DEA Academy at Quantico. He has been enjoying investigating high-level drug trafficking organizations and is hoping to be flying full-time with the DEA’s Aviation Division in a fewyears. Sean sees Cris Ferris pretty regularly when Cris is flying KC1 Os in the Reserves at McGuire AFB. Sean also passed along that Matt Terpstra is currendy stationed at a NATO base in Germany flying J STARS and Tom Rice is living in Delaware and working for a large financial firm.

Another long time writer. Mike Rokaw is still living the good life out in LA. It seems like he's on his fourth or fifth tour out there... Actually, Mike was just selected for command and took command of the Offensive Counterspace Squadron in March. He’s enjoying command and it goes without saying, that he enjoys LA. Angela and the kids (Sophia and Sammy) are enjoying the warm weather and the beach. Mike always sends along updates on others, too. Dave Rademacher, Tom Holler, and Jay Shueler have formed a “rogue AF unit in Memphis, TN” flying for FedEx. They all live within a block of each other, which should scare the rest of the neighborhood.

Follow up from previous columns. In a past article, I mentioned Steve and Steph Whyte and the work they are doing in the ministry they started—A Place Called Home (www.apchm.org)—to help support and mentor exceptional foster and adoptive parents. They have clearly lived their ministry and have welcomed many children into their family. Their family size fluctuates, but most recendy they had nine children!

Wedding bells. InApril, Mark Slocum tied the knot with Xavi in the National Cathedral in Washington DC. It was an amazing ceremony in such a grand church and was very well attended by many family and friends. Everyone had a great time at the reception at the very classy 701 Restaurant in the Penn Quarter of DC. There were many familiar ’92 faces there to celebrate with the happy couple. Jim "Meegs" Meger drove up from Langley AFB where he is the 1st OSS commander. Craig “Kegger” Wenz and his wife, Rose, came down from New Jersey where Kegger flies for Jet Blue and is a Reservist at McGuire AFB. Jim Mueller is here in the Pentagon at SAF/IA. KenNotariisontheJCS. Paul Knapp, Kristin Struekins, Glen Brunner, and Mike Waggle also attended.

Michael D. Sundsted

1805 Macadams Place

Alexandria, VA 22308

iHt

(240) 338-9839 Michael.sundsted@afncr.af.mil Class Website:

www.highflight.com

Greetings’93! Hope your summer is beginning nicely. I am continuing to thoroughlyenjoymyassignmentat Andrews. Alexandria, DC and the Potomac River are great places to be! Lori and Collin are doing great and we just got back from a nice vacation at Martha’s Vineyard. What a place—I highly recommend it! Thanks for giving the great updates that follow as well as giving me your email and addresses. I still need those that haven’t updated their email address with me in awhile to do so.

I am preparing a database for the 20-year reunion... on to the news...

Chris Wilson checks in from the Tidewater area ofVirginia.

Chris has kept busy outside the cockpit working two2 years in TACC and then ayear at ASAM. He attended with Randy Huiss, Brandon Hileman, Pat Schlichenmeyer, and Aaron Gittner.

Chris now works in the J33 at JFCOM at Norfolk NS, VA (Force Provider for the Pacific/Westem Hemisphere and also the lead for Airpower GFM issues). He and his family (wife, Ora, and Ainsley, Hunter, Kyle and Collin) are thoroughly enjoying the area. Chris also sees Brent Mesquit at the gym just about every day. Brent is working over at NATO ACT. Gil Barrera writes from sunny San Antonio, TX. He separated from active duty in2001 completed ManagementTraining Program for Ryland Homes in San Antonio, TX. He is currently a Purchasing Agent in San Antonio for Ryland Homes.

Don Cloud and family send a 15-year update. Don has been stationed at Keesler, Scott, OfFutt (STRATCOM), Langley, Osan AB Korea, Hickarn, Naval Postgraduate School (Monterey, CA), and nowUSJFCOM (whew!). Along the way, he was married to his wife, Tina, and they have two kids, Bailee and Caleb. At Naval Postgraduate School, Don ran into a bunch of 93 grads: Matt Benivegna, Clint Mixon, Jason Bock, Paul Geehreng, Paul Flibbard, and Ali Trevino (Ward) Don says that getting paid to get a Master's was a great deal made even better by going to class four out of five days a week in civvies. Before that, we were at Hickarn, where I got to workwith several USAFAgrads on the PACAF staff- Doug 1

.

-

-

Gilpin, Ed Riggleman, Tammy Trychon. Don and family are currently enjoying their new house in Hampton Roads and he’s settling in to his new position as Joint Training Development Officer. Thanks for the update Don!

More '92 in command. There are number of classmates now in command of squadrons across the AF. Rob “Blend’r” Novotny sent me news on some

fighter squadron commanders. Rob recently took command of the 67th Fighter Squadron at KadenaAB. The67thisanF-15Csquadron. Chuck“Corky" Corcoran is the Commander ofthe 525th Fighter Squadron (F-22) at Elmendorf AFB. Lance Gipper” Bunch took command of the 335th Fighter Squadron (F15E) atSeymour-JohnsonAFB, and Derek “Trapper” France took command ofthe43rd Fighter Squadron (F-22) at Tyndall AFB. '92 Desert Dwellers. Dean Boerrigter sent me an update from the CAOC at A1 UdeidAB where he is working in Strat Ops closely with Rich “Knuckles” Flake. Dean is on an AEF1-2 rotation and Rich is finishing up a one-year tour and ready to return to Randolph AFB. Phil Limbacher is also there on a oneyear. Lisa (Horton) Stephenson also finished a tour at the CAOC recently.

Orlando Acosta is at MacDill and was at A1 Udeid for a short exercise. Lyle Shidla finished some time at the CAOC as a Minnesota guardsman. Fred Bravo and Mark Hersant are at A1 Udeid on AEF 1-2 with Fred flying C-21s from Andrews AFB and Mark flying C-130s at Little RockAFB. new

“

India adventure. I don't think I've mentioned Dave Sutton in a while. Dave,

Shannon, and their kids, Donovan and Lydia, are finishing their tour in New Delhi, India where they have been stationed. They have an awesome blog that has detailed their once-in-a-lifetime adventures and travels all over India and

Don Cloud and family looking sharp!

Will Thomas reports from Dallas, TX where he works as an investment broker working with a team of five people. His family offive is doing well. Thanks

for the update!

Another quick update comes from Paul Trujillo, wife, Christie and kids Zachary, Katie and Jacob. They are doing well and enjoying life in Hawaii.

Paul is stationed at Hickarn where he works at the 613 AOC/AMD. (See photo at top of next page.)

Chris Korger checks in from Peoria, IL where he is currently an ALO for USAFA and also flies with SouthwestAirlines! Just after he left active duty he did a fouryear tour with the Peoria ANG flying C- 130s. His wife, Tracy, is also a pilot in the Guard and they have a one-year-old daughter named Faith. Ifyou are “moving

C.C. M. Masotti

W

Paul Trujillo, Christie, Zach, Katie and Jacob about the cabin” and hear that Korger is your pilot on the LUV airlines make sure you say hello!

Dan Ganoza updates us from Colorado where he works as an Air Mobility Liason Officer with the Army at Fort Carson. He misses the AF, but this gives him the opportunity to live in Colorado. Be safe on the deployments and make sure you hit some USAFA Sports venues! Last time I saw Dan he was in Keflavik, Iceland!! Staying in cold places is a must for Dan! Ali [Ward) Trevino just graduated from Naval Postgraduate School in December along with Jason Bock and Don Cloud. While in Monterey, she was blessed to hang out with one of our number one doctors, Anne Truitt. She said that school seemed to get in the way of socializing, but I’m quite confident that they had TOO much frin! They did get to explore San Francisco and Puerta Vallarta before they left the area. Anne is in Irvine CA and just took the Dermatology boards, so she's enjoying the California sun for us and reaping the ben-

efits from all the sun-damaged beach goers.

Ali and Hubby Ray drove with their 13-year-old cat, Levi, across country to Scott AFB. Instead of signing in there, she drove to Norfolk VA and started JPME Phase II. After 10 weeks of COA Development and winning the volleyball tournament (no softball in the winter), she drove back to Scott and signed into my she'll be working in the J5/4 working logistics new unit at USTRANSCOM --

and distribution initiatives.

He has already run into Dave Cutter (he's the Chief of Staff s Exec, so barely gets to eat lunch, let alone break free from the third deck) and Dawn Lancaster

(Harrington)

-

PSC 116, Box 215 APO AE 09777 W: +33-1-43-12-26-69 or

202-536-2780, 1 (for English) X2669 Cell: +33-1 6-25-74-69-13

cc.masotti@yahoo.com

Bonjour, ’94! Lots to report, so I’ll get right to it...

Just after I sent offthe latest column for publishing, I got a great, newsy e-mail from Roel Zamora (ROTC Instructor, Sacramento State). He had just finished the MBA program at Naval Postgraduate School (NPS—Monterey) in Decernher with initial plans to be an MX squadron CC at Beale, but things were changed at the last minute so he could get proper medical support for his son Jacob’s diagnosed autism. With Sacramento hosting one of the best treatment centers in the nation, and the university in great

need of a fantastic instructor, it became a great fit for everyone and a blessing for the Zamora family, which includes Roel, Gloria and twins J acob and Anna. Speaking of twins,

they apparently run in the Zamora family, as Roel’s twin Randy, USN, Notre Dame ROTC, '94, recently finished last year’s ACSC class (after originally being scheduled for NPS while Roel thought HE would go to Maxwell!). Anyway, Randy was able to give regular updates on Roel’s friends and former Tiger 10 alums like Daymen Tiffany, Dave Chace and Dave Mineau (also a former Bullpup from CS-13!), among other grads from ’91-94. Though he would have enjoyed being stationed with his brother and classmates, Roel is pretty sure Monterey was the better end of the deal location-wise. It was espe-

daily good for them their last three months there when his pal Greg Nowak (also Tiger 10, outgoing Security Forces SQ/CC from Sheppard) moved to town with his ride Amy and daughter Kaidyn. The Nowaks and Zamoras spent several Sundays together watching football, going to the beach, or just hanging out. And just after Christmas, the Nowaks welcomed their second daughter, Haley. Big baseball fans, Greg and Roel are planning a "pilgrimage" to New York City in June to see a couple of games in Yankee Stadium before they open up their new ballpark next year.

she's the Services CC and moves to Ramstein this summer to take

CC again of the largest Services Sq in the AE Thanks for the fantastic update!

Rod Owens updates us from his position at Northrop Grumman/TASC in the

launch office putting classified payloads into space... what a blast! (okay, nice pun...) He has two beautiful little girls (Madison (3) and Megan (1). Hewillbe married for seven years in Aug 08! Enough about him he says... He hung out with Glen Guyton who is now ayouth pastor for his church in Hampton Roads, VA. Rod also spoke with Alex Armour who is also in the DC, Northern VA, MD area and owns his own business. Rod bumped into Mark Cozad in the Dulles Airport and he's working for DIA. He also spoke with Jay Williams who is still down in Atlanta workingwith LUCAS Recruiting, and Mike Marcouxjust moved backto Denver working with Northrop Grumman. Brian Poole is living in Oakland working for Chevron as one oftheir head attorneys, and Adrienne Byrdsong is in North Carolina working for KB Homes as an attorney, and finally Roscoe Moore is working for his own company building satellites.

Rich Parrotte sends a quick update from Travis and says all is well. He had to opportunity to heat Travis to beverages of choice at his promotion select party.

Also there were Andy Sellberg, Manny Canino, Scott Nishwitz and Jeff Seminaro.

The Nowaks and Zamoras Roel also keeps in touch with fellowTiger 10-er, Lee Mitchell, who has been mnning his own financial planning business in Mississippi for a fewyears and is enjoying life as a family man with his bride Terri and their sons, Will and John, approximately 9 and 8, respectively. Lee keeps up with "the Daves" of Tiger 10, Dave "Yams" Williams (another Bullpup!) and Dave Mineau. Yams is

LtCol (sel) Andy Sellberg, Rich Parrotte, Scott Nishwitz, Manny Canino, and JeffSeminaro (’91).

Alex Mezynski checks in from sunny Lisbon, Portugal while on a NATO staff tour. Ifyou've gotta push paper, it's a great location that’s a great place to do it!

His wife and two year old daughter are enjoying the assignment as well. Even though it's a great assignment, he’s looking forward to going back to flying B2s after this tour.

I have a lot more updates, but due to space I’m limited. I’ll save them for next

time, but I’ll probably have lots more updates by then... right? Everyone have a safe summer. Mike!

Deb (Reuther) McCay, Sean and baby Christian.

Ill

flying for Southwest Airlines out of Florida and also flies with the Reserves in Columbus, MS. At last report, Dave Mineau was attending SAAS at Maxwell and, as usual, generally excelling at everything he does.

Speaking of excelling, Nick Kozdras wrote to share he had, after a variety of classes in Germany focusing on the German language, history and culture, finished an Associates Degree in German Studies with plans to continue on with a follow-on degree in International Relations.

Another student in our midst, albeit full-time, at this point, is Deb (Reuther) McCay, (see family photo on previous page) who is at Army CGSC with Sean and baby Christian and really enjoying life. Christian recendy turned one, is walking, signing, sprouting teeth, and saying “Mama” like a champ! After graduation 13 June, the McCays will head to the Joint Staff/J2—I imagine DC will be quite a bit of a culture change from Kansas!

Also with Deb at Leavenworth are our classmates Lance Whitfill, Melanie

(McKillip) Lewis, Tony Retka, and Jeff Johnson, alongwith '95-ers NickMartin, Shawn Cochran, Gerry Donahue, Joe Morgan, Tim Gillaspie, Joshua Hetsko, Jon Rhone, and Seth Frank. They’re pictured in the photo along with non-grads, Mark Murray and Bill Lynch, who slipped into the picture.

Congrats to all of you and best of luck with your next assignments!

two

R. Travis Koch

5304 Sports Club Lane

Suffolk, VA 23435 Home: (757) 686-2607 Cell: (850) 499-8242

richard.koch@langley.af.mil traviskoch@yahoo.com Muchas Gracias: Thanks Buck and Jamie for writing the past two issues. I appreciate the help and look forward to hearing more from you guys next year.

Sexy Rexy Ballinger (proud papa of Zane “Trey” Ballinger) will be doctoring up the next issue and among the four of us, we should have a decent rotation. If anyone wants to jot down about 1200

words and send three pictures, feel free to zap me an update and we’ll throw ’em in. I should be getting some help here at Langley soon as Sam Mann will be showing up in June to work with me at ACC. He and Suzanne have three kids who will forget what Dad looks like once he arrives. I KID! You might not remember Sam but he marched with my buddy, Oz Medley (who sent me a letter.. .not an e-mail, no joke a

legit letter, with a stamp, and everything. Keepin’ it oldschool, I love it). Oz is living in Vegas and seems to be doing fantastic. John and Libbie Boelim (’96) are also on their way to Langley (w/ Christina and Landon).

Can’t wait.

Falcon wrestlers: I’ve run into a number of Falcon wrestlers lately, but not Johnny Harrison. Where is that guy? Jason Tone is working for BAH and if you want a j ob in the greater Hampton Roads area, give him a call (I ’ll get you his

number). He’s giving me a kickback on all his hiring bonuses. Troy Henderson (’94) is flying Eagles in Idaho and I never answer his e-mails. It’s great. I was

chowing some Pei Wei Chinese food in Tucson and bumped into Victor Pereria (’97). That cat has been to the sandbox a few times lately (flying helos in the desert) but was glad to be home at DM getting his Moo-goo-gai-pan on. Finally, Dan Bunts (’94) is in the Commonwealth not Colorado. He is doing well but is not living in Denver. He also did not go to Silverton Mountain with me, Jake Maloy, Pete Sheridan, and Brett Schumer. Maybe nextyear, you too, Ty. On the subject of congratulations, a certain Naval officer seems to have snagged the heart of our very own Amy DiGiovanni (also now in the Navy, in case you’ve forgotten); the two will marry in August. Best wishes to you both!

Chuck McGregor: I’ve really enjoyed it from an OIF standpoint, but I'm looking forward to getting home and back to the family. My son is tearing up his elementary school, so a little extra help when I get home in July will be good...

I'm the Team Leader in an embedded Military Transition Team with the Iraqi Army (IA). We just completed combat ops in the Diyala Province where our IA battalion worked to clear A1 Qaeda in Iraq and Jaesh al Mahdi insurgents. We then worked to diffuse tribal tensions and establish local security and control.

It was challenging to train the IA up and then operate along side of them. These guys can stand on their own and seeing them grow to this point was rewarding.

Attached is a pic of my IA battalion commander LtCol Mohammed and I he -

is a great leader and valued the Marines and Coalition support we received which included fixed wing CAS Thanks guys!

-

-

Silverton Mountain with Jocko, Froggy, and Schumer.

Future Generals: Congrats to all the gold-tagging, two-below-the-zone Lt Col

selects: Brannen Chord Cohee, Scott Cain, Travis Rex, Seth Frank, Jay Sabia, Julie Grundahl, Thomas Geiser, Justin Hoffman, Joseph Locke, Jeremey Turner, Adam Meyers, Scott Campbell, Rob Teschner, Benjamin Maitre, Aaron Lade, Michael Thompson, Paul Moga, Timothy Gillaspie, Christopher Maddox, David Haworth, Jason Plourde, Dave “No I’m not the Swedish rock band” Abba, Thomas Sherman, Thomas Angelo, and Cavan Craddock. Well done (top 2.5% of Coinciour class). Not too many folks on that list that went to the “Mutha. dence? Cecil Lara got robbed. Seriously though, when you guys get four stars on your shoulders, do our kids a favor and get rid of hats. Thanks. ”

Random Updates: Rob Rossi is at Scott AFB. IL. He sent me a little update: “Mike Brock, fellow 18 smack, is here too. I think he works inTACC. I’ve never actually seen him but we’ve acknowledged each others presence through email.

I have now racked up more than 22 different overnight guests (some repeats) in the four months I’ve been in the apartment—and that doesn’t count parties

and receptions and such either! But I love it and you’re more than welcome to come visit if your travels allow and dates aren’t already booked! And, as far as working long hours goes, it’s still Paris so, despite walking out super late last night, I got to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle (it does so for 10 minutes every hour on the hour), which kind of made it all okay! So, no complaints from my end...

I hope you’re all doing well and that 2008 is a year of many blessings and happiness foryou and yours. Take care and God Bless!! C.C.

Joe Difidi rolled through a couple of weeks ago on his way to the B-course (whatever that means) at SJ. He’s headed back to Mountain Home after that.

He’s probably one of the few bros I talk to on a regular basis. Like most of the 95 SF crowd, I’m on my second command, not much different than the first, just a few more moving parts. Life is good. Keeping the cornfields safe inbetween deployments. Chris Juarez (’93) Blackbird is my neighbor. He lives across the street.

All is good.” Thanks Rob.

Doug Bartels left the AF and the F-15E in December after graduating from Duke with an MBA, is moving to Charlotte, NC to be an investment banker and is doing M&A advisory with Edgeview Partners. Look him up, he’ll be rich and will take you to lunch for free...he told me so. Tim Thurston, his wife, Hurley, and their two kids, Cole and Mya, are moving after finishing Naval Postgradu-

ate School in December. Next stop the Pentagon. Tim’s heading to the Legis-

lative Liaison office. They found a great house in Lorton and are looking forward to being back on the East coast. J.D. Holt (’93) is tying the knot this summer. Congrats brother.

Golden Girls: Andrea (Kerkman) Miller sent a great update on some of the Golden Girls, “Where have we been...here there and just about everywhere!

The girls finally had a mini-reunion in Dallas Aug 07 to catch up. Here goes the brief update: Dr. Ruth German (Rumfeldt) is at Sheppard AFB running the Student Health division. Just named the ACC CGO Physician of the Year, she and her husband, Major George German (’92), have two children (yes they have produced a couple offine NBA/WNBA candidates) and are running their own Juice Bar business. Dr. Nicole Ballinger (Gumina) is completing a dual

residency in Family Medicine and Psychiatry at Andrews AFB. She and Rex Ballinger have two adorable little guys, Jude and new baby Zane, and Rex bought a conversion van which is the new love of his life. Audrey Mathieu (Allcom) separated from the Air Force three years ago, but no rest for the weary, she is chasing her and Miles’ three-year-old twins and one-year-old daughter Kitty, who is a doll. She and Miles are having sun and fun in California where Miles isatNPS. As for Nicole Pritchard (Roberson), she went to law school, did some JAG time, then separated from AD, July 06. Nicole, Craig and their four gorgeous children are at Randolph. Nicole sports some Reserve duty as a JAG when she can, but is mainly busy rearing their brood.

“Craig is finishing up a staff tour this summer and then they are off to who knows where...Mike (’94) and I are in DC, I am finishing up as a Legislative Liaison and am currently deployed to Tampa, forward to Qatar before head-

ing to Marine Command & Staff this summer (show those Marines a thing or two). That is about it...KTP.” Thanks Dre. The girls all look great (just like my 10-year high school reunion.. .girls look better and the guys are fat, grey, and bald... kinda like Joel Stephens).

Christian, Logan, and Carson hired to be a Chemistry Instructor and Christian went to Space Command for a headquarters gig for two years. Then by a twist of fate, the Physics department at USAFA needed a weather officer for one year. Since Christian was already in the local area and had the required degree, he was hired. He was kept on for an additional year to run the meteorology track of the degree when his superior was picked up for ACSC in residence. The Physics Dept sponsored Christian for a PhD which he hopes to complete soon. Kirsten switched to the Reserves in ’05 and just recently separated from the military all together.

She is staying plenty busy teaching on-line chemistry courses with Colorado Community Colleges Online and keeping up with their two beautiful boys,

Logan (4) and Carson (18 months).

’96ers in the F-22 Test Squadron. From left are Ian Moreno, Jack Fischer, Matt Giese, and Mike Starr.

I got a great picture from Mike Starr out at the 411th Flight Test Squadron at

The Golden Girls from left are Nikki, Andrea, Ruth, Audrey, and Nicole.

Now for, the Jon Hamby section of the update. Bone is well. Stephanie and he just had a son (Mathes MacGregor Hamby). Baader and I picked up his first

lacrosse sticks. Kid is going to be a stud. Till then, Keep the Faith, T. Koch.

Melissa S.

y'“g|

Cunningham

15660 Candle Creek Drive

Monument, CO 80132

(719) 487-3071/DSN: 333-0472

Melissa.cunningham@usafa.af.mil or melcunningham@msn.com

Edwards AFB. In this small squadron of nine pilots and flight test engineers, four are from our class. Ian Moreno flies as a flight test engineer in the F-16.

Matt Giese and Mike are dual qualified in the F-16 and F-22.

Andi Vinyard has been extremely busy with multiple TDYs lately. In her travels she bumped into a bunch ofbricks and sent me an email update to include in this column. While in San Antonio she saw Chris Bishop who is a Bioenvironmental

Engineer (BEE) stationed at Kadena. Chris is married and has two little kids.

Mike Haines is also a BEE and is stationed at Maxwell. Lisa (Cherry) Atherton sent Andi an e-mail last week. She and her family recendy moved from the Langley area to Boston to start a new job. Andi also ran into Erik Hoffman who was recently engaged and will be getting married on 23 August. Mark Gehringer is also in DC. Andi saw him at Harpoon Larry's while they were both TDY to Langley. Chris Sheppard lives in DC he flies for the D.C. Guard.

—

It’s PCS time. This is the last article that 1 am going to write from our great alma mater. We won’t be peeling out of the North Gate like we did 12 years ago, but we are excited to get back to the operational AF. It has been a great experience to come back and be on the “other side of the fence.” If you ever get the opportunity to return and work with the cadets, definitely take it. We are packing up the cars and going from Fairchild Hall to Fairchild AFB. We are thrilled that the AF is keeping us together for another

assignment. Those opportunities seem slimmer and slimmer these days so we are very thankful to make this move together. We are also excited to be staying out West and getting more use out of the snowboards. Our season got cut short this year when I had a bad tangle with black ice and broke my ankle. I’m doing much better now and hope to be able to hit the slopes again next winter.

Blair Kaiser and I at the Airlift Tanker Association Convention.

Blair Kaiser and his son Evan stopped by Audi’s place to visit on the way to an exhibition game recently. Blair and Kurt Kremser are working on the wing staff

I got a nice note from Kirsten (’97) and Christian Wohlwend from Utah State where Christian is wrapping up a PhD. The Wohlwends were married a few days after Kirsten’s graduation and then it was off to AFIT and Wright State to

at Andrews AFB. I also crossed paths with Blair at the Airlift Tanker Association

complete Master’s degrees. Their follow on assignment was right down the street to Wright-Patterson where they could find join spouse jobs for a weather officer and a chemist. Next they moved back to Colorado Springs. Kirsten was

him, ask him about his interview for the 89 th Airlift Wing. Youwillhave tears

Convention last October. He has not changed a bit. He was full of hilarious stories that had me laughing so hard I couldn’t breathe. If you ever run into in your eyes.

I

Youtube: Scott and Jen (Trost) Vecchione are stationed at Misawa. Scott is now

outoftheAFandJenisa physical therapist. Recendy they made a short movie about living in Misawa for an online contest sponsored by Nature Valley and Youtube. They received enough votes for a second place finish and a great prize.

Speaking ofYoutube, recendy Jasin Cooley came across some of our old Blue Tubes and put them up on the website. They are too funny. Ifyou ever have any free time do a search on “Tough as Bricks” and check them out. Jasin is packing up this summer too to get a PhD at the University of Florida. Recendy I saw a few photos of his office when the cadets pulled a 100th Night” stunt on him “

and wrapped his office and everything in his office in plastic wrap. It’s funny how they show their appreciation to their AOCs. Also, I saw that Chris Cullenbine was awarded the Outstanding Academy Educator for the Math Department this year. This is one of the greatest recognitions instructors at USAFA can receive for superior teaching accomplishments and demonstrated ability to instill high standards of integrity, service and leadership into our cadets.

That’s a wrap for the Bricks update for this issue. I didn’t get many inputs this time around so our news is a little slim. When you do get time, please remember to shoot me a quick email update and photo and I will get them in our column.

Have a wonderful summer! Mel

Maxwell Rehearsal Dinner at the Cards Game: From left are Chris and Kimberly, Amanda, Louella and Mel, Kate (Meyer) and Mike Bailey.

Until next time.. .Mel.

Melvin E. Maxwell, Jr.

Karin McWhorter

756 Granite Drive

8243 Oasis Bloom St.

Ofallon, IL 62269

mel_maxwell97@hotmail.com

North Las Vegas, NV 89085 (702) 476-4304

melvin.maxwell@ustranscom.mil

mcwhorters@hotmail.com

Hey all, “Quiet hours” remain in effect for the Class of ’97.1 noticed in the last issue ofCheckpoints my work email address was incorrectly listed.. .hope that hasn’t blocked some updates from making it in. I was lucky enough to get a couple shout- outs from John Newbill and Jeremy Raley. John dropped me a line from Kunsan where he is serving as the Ops Officer of the 8th Security Forces SquadJohn was featured in an Armed Forces Networkvideo story and interview about running in the 79th Annual Seoul International Marathon this past March. The race featured over 25,000 runners. John finished the last half mile of his ron.

3 Sabre Society Donors

first marathon on the track in Seoul Olympic stadium. He crossed the finish line in 4 hours and 48 minutes—not bad for a guy who never ran more than 6 miles before training for the marathon.

John and family are headed to Ramstein AB, Germany where he’ll work at NATO Air North this summer. John reports multiple Stephan Pinchak sightings while at Kunsan.

Hi Everyone,

Well, our reunion is approaching fast and we have set a date and are working on the rest of the details.

Here is what I know so far. Our reunion will be 17-

21 Sept (Homecoming Weekend) with the classes of 1973 and 1978. As you can

tell, we are definitely the j unior class and our schedule of events reflects that.

You may have to wait until the 15-year reunion to revisit

Mitchell Hall for lunch with the cadets, but other than that, this reunion will have all the standard features.

Check out the AOG website (www.usafa.org) foratentafive schedule of events as well as all the latest information.

We have a block of rooms reserved at the Marriott and online

registration for the reunion will be available June 1 st. From the AOG website you will be able to register for all events as well as purchase class merchandise.

There is a small committee of local grads working on the local details: James Blanchard, Daryl Klenda, Julia Phillips

2 Sabre Society Donors

(East), Derek Theraldson, and Allison Galford (DelGrande). All but Daryl, who is with the 94FTS, are instructors at the Academy. Tim Schumacher (now a civilian) is heading up the golf tournament and Jaime Anderson (Melton) is

collecting photos for a slide show.

Ifyou are trying to find old friends, check out www.zoomienation.com and www.facebook.com I thought facebook was for “kids”, but there are a lot of ’98ers on the site and it has been really fun catching up with people. If you have photos to submit for the slide show you can upload them directly to Jaime on facebook. She has created a ’98ers group and I think it would be great to get more people in the group.

I am pretty low on updates this time, so please send some updates for next

time—especially if you aren’t going to make the reunion.

I got an update from Tim Schumacher who is working as a Program Manager for Qwest Communications in Denver working on the government Networx project. They’re one ofthree telecommunications providers that are allowed to bid for government work with a max value of $40 billion over the next 10 years and one of five companies that can compete for an additional $20+ billion over lOyears. He and his wife, Sara, (who he met at Karl Falk's wedding) have a 3 Vi-

John Newbill, Seoul Marathon finisher.

Jeremy Raley wrote in to report Jus exile to Wright Patterson AFB has ended.

Jeremy had been at Wright-Pat for nearly eight years. Three Air Force Research Lab jobs, two graduate degrees, and four kids later, Jeremy and family will be headed to Colorado Springs for an assignment at Peterson AFB. Lastly, I want to report that the former Louella Lovely and I got hitched this past April in St Louis. We had a fun weekend with friends and family. Some “

highlights included rehearsal dinner” at Busch Stadium where we also celebrated Chris and Kimberly Kay’s 10th wedding anniversary; Amanda Zumbrunnen’s (Jennings) daughter, Hannah Grace’s perfect distribution of flower petals on wedding day; knocking over the unity candle (it stayed lit!); and doing the robot with Brad Holtmeier.

114

year-old son Kyle and a one-year-old daughter Paige. Since they live in the south part of town and their HMO partnered with a hospital in the north part of town, they didn't make it to the hospital before Paige was bom. Paige was bom in the parking lot of a Holiday Inn, and in Tim’s words “the" stress" the Academy tries to put you under is nothing compared to hearing a 911 dispatcher tell you to pull the car over so they can instruct you on howto deliver your child”! Luckily, an ambulance was in the area and he didn't have to follow through with the dispatcher's directions. They live in Highlands Ranch, and it is only a 45-minute drive from their house to the Eisenhower Golf Course parking lot (he’s timed it).

Tim is trying to get the '98 football players together, so ifthat is you, please sent him a note a tskschumacher@qwest.net He also had a few updates on some ’99ers and their class is well represented on the coaching staff of the resurgent football team. Charlton Warren, Jemal Singleton, and Blaine Morgan are all coaches, as is '02 grad Ben Miller.

I also got a note from Tom Jost who will be done with his tour in Hawaii at the AF Maui Optical Supercomputing Site (AMOS part of the Research Lab) in June. He is headed back to the Academy to be a part of the Physics Faculty.

-

Uncle Sam at the University of Hawaii, enroute to USAFAin January 2010. Jake Raser is also at Altus AFB and just ran his second Boston Marathon in the wayfaster- than-me time of3:05:08. Jim Olden, an IP in Altus, bought a bread and breakfast which opened in February. Check it out at www.fowlerhousealtus .com. Paul Adams just got to Altus and is reportedly loving life in Oklahoma.

Mike Morales recently returned from a six-month deployment teaching Afghanis howto fly. In an effort to improve the state, he almost burned his house and his neighbor’s house down, including 40 acres of land as he was trying to burn some scrap wood on a breezy Oklahoma day. Tobin also wrote that Kari Ellis is a mom now and flies for Delta, hubbing out of NYC. Ben Lasher flies for the Dover Reserves and got hired by Southwest; three kids now and three more to go. Miguel Lutman is also in the Dover Reserves and mns a company that flips houses Matt French is on his way to Nellis in June to instruct at the F-15C Weapon’s School. He and his wife, Mandy, have three kids—two-year-old Levi and a set of twins (boy and girl), Micah and Elise, who are eight months.

Tom Jost, wife, Trisha, and son Cade on the beach in Makena in Maui.

Lastly, I heard from Cory Brown. He and wife, Holly, just celebrated their four-year anniversary. He’s still active duty working in Acquisitions. They recently arrived at Scott AFB, IL after he finished up at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA. In his words “one of the sweetest deals ever”. He is now working at Headquarters AMC. While he was in Monterey, Dan Ebert was there going to Defense Language Institute to learn French. He's flying C- 130s and he headed out to France last May for a flying exchange program for the next three years. He also ran into Erin Staine-Pyne (Munson) who's also working in AMC. She just moved here from Little Rock where she was flying C- 130s.

I guess that is it for now. I am well below my allowed word and photo count, so send me an e-mail! You know you want to.... Karin

James W. Busch

1697A Borneo St.

Clovis, NM

The Fab-5 Frenches.

88101

(505) 693-2266

Chris McFarland is there along with Jeremy Weihrich, who will be one of the

DSN: 681-6521

initial cadre in the F-22 Weapon’s School. Jason Davis and his family are leav-

Buschfl6@yahoo.com james.busch@cannon.af.mil

ing Korea and will be instructing in the Hawg trough.

Shiners, now that the writers’ strike is over, and I finally convinced our soonto-be-impeached Class President, James, to let me write one of these, we have an article! This is Sean Baerman and I’ll be providingyou all with this edition’s update.

The Majors’ promotion party thrown at the DM O’Club in January featured our top 94% of the AF, and was coordinated by me due to my late graduation date. ’99ers in attendance were Joaquin Glomski, who is currendy deployed to Kuwait; Will Reynolds, Jason Jensen, Paul Brown, Panic Coggin, and Andy Kamataris, are all IPs in the A1OC schoolhouse; Scott Morgan, Cory Naddy, and Ryan Hill are all IPs in the “legacy” A-10. Christopher Rust left early for A-10 WIC, just so he could get out of paying for the party.

Jon Graham wrote from Kirtland where he is an IP at the CV-22 schoolhouse.

Congratulate Jon, when you see him, for winning the 2008 Jabara Award, which was presented to him at USAFA on 9 May. Hope all is well and keep the emails going to James, maybe it will kick start him into writing. I hear he hasn’t been flying a lot lately...

Jason “JW" Simmons

3524 Lakeside Drive

Shreveport, LA 71119 Simmons@USAFA2000.com

Dan Diehl, James Busch, Scott Nichols, and their families

all stopped by my house as Dan was passing through Arizona.

James had just moved to Luke AFB where he and Anela added

daughter, Amelia, to the Busch family. Dan is a Weapons Officer at Dyess and was on a mini-road trip with his wife, Jenn. Scott and Peg live here Tucson, in between his many deployments as Weapons Officer for one of the rescue squadrons at DM. a second

Two Grand, United We Stand... Two Grand, United We Stand!

Recently, I heard from Mike “Checkpoint” Deavers, and we had some good email traffic on the good ole days. Well, your class would really like to hear

what you’re up to these days. I often hear how great it is to read about an old buddy, and hear, “ahh haa, neat, that’s what he/she is doing these days! I get lots of comments from classmates just like you. Is there anything in here about you though? If not, as our trainers back at the zoo would say, “you’re slack’n then!”

Throw me an email and let your class know what’s new in your life. Thanks in advance and on to the class news updates: Tom Bozung and Tracy (Tinianow) Bozung are at DavisMonthan AFB and are expecting a baby boy in May 2008. As if that wouldn' t keep them busy enough, Tom is working on his master’s and flying the HH-60 and Tracy is busy working at the clinic on base as a family practice doctor. Casey (Tinianow) Parini is going to finish up her residency in OB/GYN fromWilford Hall, Lackland AFB, in June and then is headed toAvianoAB, Italy with husband, Sean.

I heard from Jackson Whiting and his wife, Courtney; they were married on '

”

James and his four best friends: Scott, Dan, Sean, and beer.

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After three years in Korea, Mike Bullard also passed through in January, with his wife, Elsa (USMA ’00), when they were both on terminal leave. Mike now works for Northwest as an instmctor and Elsa will be starting I aw School at the

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University of Minnesota in the fall.

After a few email solicitations, I heard from some Shiners around the world.

Tobin McKearin dropped me an email and filled me in on some of our classmates. Tobin, after surviving a bypass surgery, is doing well and will be milking

1

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Oct 13,2007 and recently PCSed to Tyndall AFB for an assignment as an instructor pilot on the mighty F-15.

Bessie Fontenot ran into Aaron Edwards out in Greenville NC. Both are out of the AF enjoying civilian life and coincidently are living in the same town.

Bessie is still working on her PhD in Physiology at East Carolina University and Aaron is now a contractor at Seymour Johnson AFB. I also heard from Brandon Acheson. Brandon separated from the AF lastyear to take a job as "pastor of student ministries" in his home town of Billings, MT

and is also working on a seminary Master’s degree. In Feb '07, he and wife, Tanja, had a second child, Sage. Brandon also noted that he recently ran into other Montana native from our class, Sam Todd and Bruce Clark. Bruce Clark will be graduating from Covenant Seminary this spring and was just accepted into a PhD program at the University of Cambridge, England.

And from some of the best news for this edition, Patrick Parsons was named the USAFE and subsequently the AF’s Outstanding Junior Clinical Dentist of the Year for 2007 yes, the good Doc is representing us well.

Well, that’s it for this time. Gradually we get one or two more classmates added to our email list each month. Please email me if you’re not on it yet.

Also, is there anyone out there at Hurlburt Field? I '11 be there for UNWT in July —

through September.

Bestwishestoall. Jason

Faith Dunn

(Hitchcock)

6423 NW 94th Court

Jackson and Courtney Whiting

Speaking of weddings, Melissa and I had a nice wedding on April 26 th. Two Granders in attendance were Matt Medley, Eric Bixby, and as a groomsman, Bryan Trinkle. Here’s a picture of Maj Melissa Simmons and me. (Her promotion ceremony was the day before ourwedding!)

Johnson, IA 50131 faithd03@hotmail.com

(Five Sabre Society Donors) (Editor’s note: We did not receive an inputfrom Faith for this issue. Send her your information and photographsfor the next magazine.)

Amy Schultz 806 Magnolia Bend San Antonio, TX 78251 215-280-1760

aschultzdmd@gmail.com Class Website: www.usafa02.org

(One Sabre Society Donor) (Editor’s note: We did not receive an inputfrom Amyfor this issue. Send her your information and photographsfor the next magazine.)

Jason and Melissa Simmons Matt is at Moody AFB flying the mighty HC-130 (search and rescue). Ericis

in the AFNetOps along with me, but headed out to the sandbox. Bryan is in

Germany still hanging out with the Army as an ALO and hoping to stay there for an extended tour. I hear that Eric Carrano had a wedding the weekend following mine, so congrats to him and his bride as well.

I heard from Seth Cunningham recently; he left active duty and is in his second year of law school at University of Montana. This summer he’ll be working for a city prosecutor’s office. Kristina (Welde) Pina and Tom Pina now have orders back to C. Springs this summer, so for those already around our old stomping grounds, be watching for them. Joshua Miller is doing great atTelos Corp in the Business Development branch and has moved to DC. Josh met up with August Pfluger at the Masters GolfTournament. August is out at Tyndall AFB as an F-15 instructor pilot, but is headed to New Mexico this summer to help stand up a new flying unit.

August Pfluger, Adam King (non-USAFA grad), and Josh Miller

Susan Lynn Doyle

susan_doyle@post.harvard.edu (Susan is in the process of moving.)

(Two Sabre Society Donors) Greetings from Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio! Thanks to everyone who responded with inputs. Kim (Feikens) Stephens and her husband, James, welcorned Paul to the family on September 7,2007. Kim described it as “an easy birth with no complications. He has brought us a great deal of joy.” James and Kim are at Scott Air Force Base and live in O'Fallon, IL. James works at AFCA,

and she works in the 375th Comm Support Squadron

Kim (Feikens), husband James, and baby Paul Stephens.

Robert Rouse, CS-06, married Katie Watson on March 15th, 2008, at Ohio

University in Athens. They are both missionaries with Campus Crusade for Christ and will be moving to Indianapolis this summer.

Robert and Katie Rouse

-

missionaries for Campus Crusadefor Christ.

Adam Rector wrote from Guam to let us know that Ben Hopkins was recently in the AF Times (24 March 08) for providing fire support for Prince Harry. Ben

is a Weapons Systems Officer in the 336th Fighter Squadron based at Seymour

Knorring and Sarah (Thilo) Brehm were bridesmaids. After serving on active duty as a comm, officer at Tinker AFB, Kari separated from theAFin July 07, and she has since gone back to school for a nursing degree. Her new hubby, Chris, is currently a T-1FAIP at Vance AFB. Best wishes to both!

Well, that’s all the news we have for this quarter—everyone is busy, busy, busy. Until next time, enjoy all the wild promo parties and anniversary celebrations, and when you have a free second, don’t forget to share your news!

In the words of our lamest high school yearbook signatories, “Have a cool summer!”

Johnson APB, N.C. When Prince Harry called in for support, Ben’s F- 15E issued three rounds of laser guided bomb strikes against the Taliban forces attacking FOB Delhi. You can check out the article at: http:/ /www.airforce

Paula Delapasse 103 Raymond Circle

times.com/news /2008 /03 / airforce_prince_harry_031508w/.

Warner Robins, GA 31088

(225) 603-4450 paulamaffey@juno.com Paula.Delapasse@robins.af.mil

Hooray for summer and I hope this update finds everyone doing well! I am deployed are cursing the triple digit heat and sand everywhere, but know that those of us back home are thinking about you often! Keep working hard and stay safe out there! We had some good updates this time- keep them coming! Scrib Jelliffe wrote and sent this picture of him and a couple sure classmates

buddies at the AF vs Cal game in the Armed Forces Bowl over New Year’s Eve.

Pilot Copt Ben DonbergandWSO Ben Hopkins stand beside their F-15E used to support Prince Harry in Afghanistan.

Joe Miranda and Dave Bennett are back from Iraq and living La Dolce Vita in Italy flying the F 16 along with classmates Casey Mottinger and Tyler Robarge.

-

Dan Morales separated from the Air Force and will begin a four-year PhD

program in Management Science and Engineering at Stanford this fall.

Please contact me with submissions for future Checkpoints on the global or at susan_doyle@post.harvard.edu.

Keep up the hard work, have fun, and let me know if you’re passing through Ohio! Take care, Susan.

Breezy (Long) Heddinger Cell: (719) 213-3205

Dyess AFB,TX

windy04@gimail.af.mil

Tailgating at the Armed Forces Bowl. From left are Jordan Filer, Chris Daniels, Scrib, and Matt Mulica.

As you can see, they all had a good time catching up and tailgating for the

game. Looking good in the A-jackets fellas. A little tidbit from each: Jordan and Chris are flying the B-52 out of Barksdale AFB. Scrib just

Helllloooooo, CAPTAINS! Yesterday, we were low-crawling through the

just to earn a little “recognition,” and today we’re joining senior CGO ranks as Captains in the US Air Force... time flies when you’re having fun— and/or at least when you’re deploying. During my second trip to the desert, it’s been like another mini-reunion every time another plane lands. Cheers to all the grads flying C130s and C- 17s who’ve brightened many a day for me in the desert this time around. Our classmates are continuing to make history everywhere we go—which is all over the world these days—and the shiny new rank on our shoulders means we’ll slowly but surely be allowed to lead more and more of Sabre Society Donors those endeavors. Who would have guessed four years ago, during those 40 days of sleep-deprived training sessions and spirit missions, how true our cheesy motto would ultimately prove to be— 2004, ReadyforWar! In addition to all our job and service commitments, both in and out of uniform, ’04 still makes time for home and family. Kari Thompson and Chris Puccia tied the knot on 11 Aug 07, in Kari’s hometown of Anaheim Hills, CA (seephoto). Sam McCurry and Johm Schwartz were groomsmen, andBenVan snow

Hoof, Dustin Lee, and Justin Westmoreland were saber-bearers. Christine

finished up training for the F- 15Hs and has started flying out

of Seymour Johnson AFB. Lastly, Matt is living the city life flying C-5s out at Travis AFB, CA. Emily Gross sent updates from her new civilian life as she has been separated from the AF for almost a year. Emily worked in Aircraft Maintenance before getting out. She is

working for a Fortune 500 company called Stryker Medical out of Kalamazoo, MI. She has taken a role as Project Manager and really likes it so far. Emily said after two years in Charleston, SC it was a bit ofweather shock, but she has taken a liking to Michigan and even bought herself a snowmobile.

She and several classmates were all down in Destin, FL in January for the wedding of Chris Perr and Jackie Plumb. It looked like a beautiful wedding as you can see from the picture! see photo on next page).

I can’t think of a prettier place to be in January than Destin! Jackie and Chris are stationed

together at Minot AFB where Jackie is working as an exec for the

Maintenance Group and Chris is now doing Space and Missile. Ashleigh Thomas is a Services Officer at Elmendorf AFB in Alaska.

Emily also had the chance to be in another wedding, the one of Precious (Bondurant) Alexander and her husband, Alan. Precious separated last August and was married last September. Mariko Esannason was the Maid of 117

Felisa

(Hervey) Dyrud Myrtle Ave. Cambridge, MA 02138 (719)352-5991 Felisa.dyrud@gmail.com 20

Facebook group: “Feel the Fire”

Hello ’06,

Happy summer! Peter and I will be moving in August, to Kirtland AFB, NM and Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ, respectively. All contact info will be the same except for mailing address. Peter will be training hard this fall and starting the Combat Rescue Officer pipeline in January. We are thankful to be in the same region, and close to the Hervey family in

Chris Perr and Jackie Plumb got married in Destin, Florida. 2005 Grads in attendance from left were: Cameron Czarniecki, Veronica (Gao) Brownheim, Nick Brownheim, Jackie (Plumb) Perr, Emily Gross, Chris Perr, Cindy Dawson,

Phoenix. Many adventures to come!

It was fun to run (almost literally) into Carl Chen, Josh Lewis, and Bill and Jacque (Janzik) Torson at McGuire’s 5K Prediction run (for St. Patrick’s Day) in Pensacola, FL. Bill easily recognizable by his fluffy green wig. ’06 represented well at the race; Carl reported that other classmates present includedWill Louie, Rob Schomaker, and 4th place overall finisher Matt Hellier! I also saw Andrew Fink in

was

Alex Courtney, andAshleigh Thomas.

Honor. Ashley Maybin and Emily Gross were bridesmaids. Precious and Alan live in New Jersey where she works as a personal trainer and has bought a dog named Tucker!

While shopping in the commissary a few weeks ago I ran into Greg Fillmore.

He is stationed here at Robins flying the JSTARS. We caught up on some of the

things he has done since graduation. Greg married Jennifer Vaita Fillmore, who works as a personnelist, after graduation. He graduated UPT in May of 2007 and has since moved to Warner Robins and bought a home. Greg is leav-

ing for his first deployment to A1 Udeid at the end of April and is planning on being at Robins AFB for the next five or sixyears. He and Jennifer are expecting their first baby this August. Good luck with everything Greg!

Last month I was in San Antonio and stayed with Phil and Erin (Heintz) Jackson. They were awesome hosts and it was fun seeing them and their fourmonth-old Hadassah Grace. We had a good weekend and all are doing well.

Phil and Erin PCS this June to Hill AFB so they are getting ready to pack up the

Pensacola (he is in helicopters at Ft. Rucker), made it through PersonnelManpower school with Colleen (Galloway) Smalley, and while at Keesler also ran into Rafael Montoya-Ortega and his bride, Sarah. They are headed soon to Turkey. At the next mini-reunion at Columbus AFB, MS, I got to see Alicia Tompkins and the newlyweds Tina and Ryan Moore. They are all doing well and full of life. Hope the same is true of you!

house and move! I also saw Nate Renes and his wife, Amber, the same weekend. Nate is stationed at Randolph AFB and they both love living in San Antonio. They are expecting a baby this October and looking forward to meeting the newest edition of their family!

Robert Willoughby and his wife, Laura (Bader) Willoughby, sent in an update on their adventures since graduation. After getting married in July 2005, Robert stayed on at USAFA on casual status while Laura finished up her MS at CSU. The next year they were off to UPT at Columbus AFB and had their first son, Tyler David. They welcomed son #2 to the family, Alexander Isaac, in December 2007 while Robert was finishing up at the C-5 schoolhouse at Lackland AFB.

This photo ofJacque (Janzik) Torson at McGuire’s 5K made it into the local paper.

Here are some letters we received this quarter.. .From Ryan Baker: Still in

Afghanistan, up at Firebase Herrera, about 15km's from the Pakistan Border.

1LT Baker, Ryan Headquarters XO, 1st Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment.

From Daniel Moss: What’s up? Just thought you should know that Jason Kassel, Sean Corrigan and I got ourselves FAIPed and we're staying at Vance AFB in Oklahoma for a few more years. Sean will be flying the T-38, Jason will be flying the T-6 and I will be in the T-1. Keep on rockin’ in the free world... Dan. From William MacVittie: Updates! I am goingto flyC-17s at Charleston!

Nate Masdon is also going to fly C-17s. Jacob Fingerson got a C-5 to Travis (he was 0805 at Laughlin....). Jessica Bendrick got U-28s (Columbus). Tyler Duchene got C-5s to Travis. Michael Lebovitz is finishing up T-34 training in Pensacola. Mac.

Robert, Laura, Tyler, and new baby Alexander Willoughby.

Robert and family have now PCSed to Travis AFB where he should be up and flying missions this spring.

Lasdy, my husband and I are PCSing this summer to Wright Patterson AFB. Jacob will be attending AFIT for an MS in Aerospace Engineering over the next couple years and I have been assigned to the AF Research Lab. We are looking forward to the move and being in the Dayton area; everything except for the cold winters! If you are ever out that way, give us a call we would love to meet up!

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From Jennifer Quintero: I am engaged! His name is Collin Caldwell, a 1st Lt stationed at Ft Campbell, and a SWOT (special operations weather officer). It happened over Easter weekend. Also, I just got back from a one-week TDY at A1 Udeid where I worked with Lt Boeing and saw Lt Bergeron. I am career broadening in protocol; for one year I am working as the USAFCENT (United States Air Forces Central) Deputy Chief of Protocol, so I work for the CFACC,

and I love this job. JQ (See photo at top of next column.)

From Carl Chen: As promised, I'm writing about my engagement AND my winging! On March 15 (not planned, but conveniendy the 5th anniversary of 2006's Recognition) I proposed to Sarah Hutt on Johnson's Beach at Perdido Key, FL. Two and a half weeks later, I finished Weapons Systems Officer training

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with VT-86, selected B- IBs out of Dyess AFB, and got my wings! I will be off to

Merchandise, Gone But Not Forgotten and More!

Randolph for Electronic Warfare school and then to Dyess for follow-on training with Will Louie who is about two months ahead of me. Sarah and I are also planning on a wedding at Randolph, but the date has yet to be determined. She also got accepted to UT Austin for her Master's in Public Administration, so

www.usafa.org 118

South Korea. There is no set date yet since we have to wait for him to finish UPT in Taiwan. We'll keep you posted. The photo is the night a few minutes after he proposed. Miss you and hope all is well! Amber From Rob Grothe: Quick update on my life here. I just graduated from the University ofWashington with a Master’s ofScience inAeronautics andAstronautics and will be heading to Eglin AFB for my next assignment with the Munitions Directorate as an engineer. Thanks, Rob. From Jacob Fingerson: I have updates for Laughlin UPT class 08-05. Jason Boman got B-2s to Whiteman and is at PIT right now in San Antonio, Greg

Balzhiser and Caleb Cienski both got F- 16s and are awaiting IFF at Laughlin, Chris Gregory got B-52s to Barksdale but I'm not sure where he is right now, Chris Johnson and Lisa Cannon and Anthony Perone (USMA'05) allgotC-17s to McChord;Rorey Faraon got C-17s to Charleston, Josh Daleiden got HC130s and got married, and I got C-5s to Travis. Spaatz! Jake "Fingar" Fingerson.

From Erin Frazier: Fellow RTBs, it's hard to believe it has been two years already and we are finally all out of our training (or nearly done) and starting our real Air Force careers! I have been working as a section commander for 1st Civil Engineer Squadron at Langley AFB for a year now and I just received

Collin andJQ

though we'll be doing the distance thing, we'll at least be in the same state. I will definitely send wedding pictures. Carl From April (Linzey) Brown: Eric Brown (’07) and I got married on Decernher 30,2007 in San Diego, CA on the beach. Friends present included Barbara Leo and Tina Matejik.

From Jonathan Ferro: OnFeb 18 th at 0813 in the morning Riley Elizabeth Ferro, my baby girl, was born. She is a real cutie! (Picture coming next time.) even

Jonathan.

From Alex Johns: Maricel (my wife) and I are having a baby boy due June 7 2008.1 finally finished primary at NAS Whiting Field (only took 11 months) and

I’ll be heading to NAS Corpus Christi w/Beau Tresemer for T-44s.

From Amber Collins: Just wanted to say that I got engaged. XiangYu Chen (USAFA ’08, Taiwanese cadet) proposed on March 24,2008 on Jeju Island,

orders to Eglin AFB for this June to be the 33rd Operationswing Exec down there. My fiance, Lt Nathan Boone, is currently finishing training to be an AC130U pilot at Flurlburt Field. Our wedding will be held at the Cathedral ofthe Sacred Heart in Richmond, VA, on May 24th with Rachael (McIntosh) Taylor (’05) as my matron of honor and Nikki Jansen as a bridesmaid! Nathan and I met up with my fellow Shadows Casey Montgomery, Eric Broyles, Chris

Schendel, Shane Beckley, Adam Pahls, Nate Arneson, and a few other grads, Chuck Francis and Christine Knief, in Keystone for a New Year's ski trip this past year that was absolutely breathtaking! We'll be seeing Arnie again at Hurlburt as he flies U-28s for Spec Ops and Nathan is currently spending some

quality time with Monty (Casey Montgomery) and Jake Montoya at Corpus Christi enjoying the C-130 highlife! With everyone finishing training, getting married, and even starting families. (Bryce Fiacco and his wife, Sarah, are expecting a baby girl this summer!) It's really been a great two years since graduation! Hope you all are well and I look forward to reading about how everyone else is doing as well! Sincerely, Erin Frazier.

Erin and Nathan

Amber andXiangYu

Casey Bayne 6925 Clovercliff Drive

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Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

(310) 343-5969 checkpoints@caseybayne.com

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Hey Class of2007!

Can you believe it’s been a year since we threw our hats in the air? Time has

definitely flown by and we’ve all been busy learning the ropes in the real Air Force! Here are some updates on our classmates.

Weddings/Engagements: Eric Brown and April Linzey (’06) were married on December 30,2007 in a beautiful ceremony on the beach in San

Diego, CA. (See their photograph at the

top ofthe next column.)

Barbara Myers married Scott Vandewater (’06) in a small but beautiful wedding at Travis AFB, CA in January 2008.

Shaun Lee proposed to Katie Barlow on the beach in Santa Monica, CA in January 2008 and wedding plans are set for

I Sabre Society Donors

September 2008.

Megan Mapes and Mitch Belger were engaged on July 8,2007 and wedding plans are set for May 24,2008 in Omaha, Nebraska.

Andy Waterworth and Angela Sheffield were engaged in January and wedding plans are set for July 5,2008. Unfortunately, the honeymoon will be cut short since Andy reports for pilot training just a few days after the wedding.

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said one of her favorite parts of the trip was traveling to secluded beaches with crystal clearwater. She is really having a rough time on casual status right now!

Good thing she is starting pilot training in just a few months.

Mindy Mokos and Brit Perkowski are trying out for the Air Force soccer team at Pope AFB. Wish them luck if you see or talk to them!

Recently some 2007 grads reunited at the 2008 Company Grade Officer Council conference in San Antonio, Texas. Casey Bayne, Carl Corvin, Angela Sheffield, Andy Waterworth, Megan Mapes, and Kamille Kemp spent five amazing days on the Riverwalk learning how to become better CGOs! A majority of the speakers at the conference were also Academy grads and we were able to take a great picture (below) with grads ranging from 1975 to 2007!

Eric Brown and April Linzey Lanie Scott just returned from a seven-day excursion to exotic Panama and

encourages everyone to consider going to Panama for your next vacation! She

Updates: Our class president Ty Rube j ust graduated from OSI training in February. Upon returning to Los Angeles AFB after completing his training, he packed up again and is currently at ASBC for six weeks.

Please continue to send emails and pictures my way with your stories and updates!

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Merchandise, Gone But Not Forgotten and More!

www.usafa.org Lanie Scott

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support to programs that instill excellence in Building Leaders of Character in the Nation like the Cadet Commanders' Leadership Enrichment Seminar. This program is

designed to motivate and enhance the leadership experience of cadet commanders by developing leadership skills that they can model for the entire Cadet Wing.

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2008 AIR FORCE FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Checkpoints, Association of Graduates, Doolittle Hall, 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475.

Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20

Southern Utah at Wyoming*

at Houston

Utah*

iiiffiiii. iillllllli ImiiiiiiiiiliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiMiiiill

Oct. 4

Navy

j*.

Oct. 11

at San Diego State*

Oct. 18,

at UNLV*

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5-DIGIT 80921 p-5

Jeffrey A, Larsen 40 Rangely Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80921-2677

Dr

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Oct. 23

New Mexico*

Nov. 1

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Nov. 8

csu*

Nov. 15

BYU*

Nov. 22

at TCU*

Bold indicates home games *MWC game