Checkpoints Dec 2015

checkpoints

FROM DOOLIE TO DROID MASTER

© & ™ Lucasfilm Ltd.

BERBERIAN ’89 JOINS THE LONG STAR WARS LINE

AOG USAFA ALUMNI MAGAZINE l DECEMBER 2015

December 2015 FEATURES

26

Plaza of Heroes Dedication The Classes of ‘65 and ‘70 unveil a fitting tribute to heroes within the Long Blue Line.

34

Sympatico with the Springs?

Over the past 60 years, the Air Force Academy and Colorado Springs have grown up together. Today, the Academy and city enjoy a mutually beneficial relationship that helps each overcome inevitable challenges that emerge between thriving neighbors.

44

Graduate Profile: Paul Berberian ’89 As CEO of Sphero, one Academy grad plays a key role in Hollywood’s mostanticipated movie of 2015 — “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”

THE FLIGHT LINE 4 6 8

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

An updated staff directory p. 8 Letters, Check Ins, and more p. 10 News from USAFA and grads p. 14 Guest column from USAFA Dean of Faculty Brig. Gen. Andrew Armacost p. 18 The Long Blue Ladle brings the heat p. 20 Falcon statue finds permanent home at Doolittle Hall p. 24

52 Roll Call Heritage and graduate profiles.

Academy grads have ISIS in their crosshairs p. 52 Combat injury sends cadet on new career trajectory p. 60 Foundation recognized for its support of Academy p. 64 AOG chapter presidents gather helpful tips at annual conference p. 66 New AOG display recalls storied history of Raiders & Gen. Doolittle p. 68 Falcon Fitness Fix: Should I go under the knife? p. 70 72 The Terrazzo Cadet life and the latest from the Academy.

Rugby squad tackles a new approach p. 72 New Endowment partnership creates learning opportunities for cadets p. 80 Gen. Norty Schwartz ‘73 collects national defense honor p. 84 Cadet Question: 2016 goals? p. 88 Worth 1,000 Words: A guiding hand p. 90 94 Gone But Not Forgotten 101 Class News 144 Final Approach

_______________________________________________________ On the Cover Like R2D2 before him, BB-8 will become a household name once “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” hits movie theaters Dec. 18. The affable new Star Wars droid is the creation of a Boulder, Colorado company, Sphero, whose CEO is Paul Berberian ‘89.

Checkpoints Online Bonus Content Academy graduate Capt. Jordan Pierson ‘10 among airmen memorialized following Oct. 2 Afghanistan crash. • Cadet improves efficiency at Walmart distribution center. • Cadet Chapel serves Long Blue Line for 52 years.

2 · usafa.org

72

Rough and Tumble

84

20

Gen. Schwartz Receives National Defense Honor

Long Blue Ladle May the Force Be with You

Beyond the Classroom

© & ™ Lucasfilm Ltd.

44

80 26

Plaza of Heroes Dedication

CEO UPDATE 4 · usafa.org

Upping Our Game

I

BY WILLIAM “T” THOMPSON ’73, AOG PRESIDENT AND CEO

spent some time earlier this fall in Manhattan, Kansas, at Kansas State University. My reason for visiting the Sunflower State was to attend an alumni CEO conference sponsored by the Self Governing Alumni Forum (SGAF) of which your AOG is a member.

SGAF, as the name implies, is a group of universities where the alumni associations are “independent” from the university’s administration and are self-governing. The SGAF is a small group but comprises some of the country’s most prestigious institutions.

A listing of the members is as follows: Georgia Tech, Iowa State University, Kansas State, Kansas University, Louisiana State University, Maine University, Oklahoma State University, Purdue University, Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University, University of North Carolina, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, University of California at Berkeley, University of Illinois, University of Michigan, University of Texas at Austin and University of Virginia.

The Air Force Academy AOG is the newest member of the Forum, and I have been attending the conference at the host members’ universities for about five years. Our good friend, Bob McClure, president and CEO of the West Point AOG, sponsored our membership and I am forever grateful, as our membership has enabled us to attain a wealth of information that has made your AOG a much better association.

As I have observed, listened and learned over these past five years, I have come to the conclusion that these prominent schools are following a very sophisticated yet simple business model and are operating in a very efficient and effective way.

While there are some minor variations, the overall approach is essentially the same and it is “poetry in motion” to see how the model produces exceptional results. Since I was just recently at K-State, I’ll use the panel presentation from the university’s senior staff to illustrate how it works.

The key players at K-State are the university president, the provost (the senior academic administrator or similar to our Dean), the athletic director, the head of Development and my friend, Amy Button Renz, the president of the Alumni Association. They have worked closely as a team to construct their strategic plan, K-State 2015, and are now implementing the plan with one collective voice. Whether it’s the university president, Hall of Fame Football Coach Bill Snyder or the president of the Alumni Association, they are all publicly and internally pushing the K-State 2015 Plan.

Though “independent,” the Alumni Association plays a key role across the entire enterprise and is crucial to the successful execution of the plan. For example, the Development office and the Alumni Association are key partners in the $1.5 billion capital campaign currently underway. To insure funding for the university from the state’s political leaders, the Alumni Association works in partnership with the university president to set up a statewide network of alumni to lobby the Kansas Legislature and the governor’s office. And Coach Snyder credits the partnership with the Alumni Association for K-State’s record of having the largest crowd ever — 45,000 fans — cross state lines to watch their team play in a Texas bowl game.

The key point is that there is an integrated process across the university to move the institution forward and the other SGAF members seem to follow this model as well. Whether it’s the University of Texas, Kansas or North Carolina and whether the Development office is under the administration or, as in some cases, also “independent,” they are working in closely coordinated fashion to define and achieve their goals.

Of course, our institution is a federal service academy and, though we share the same goal with our SGAF partners of educating our nation’s youth, our mission is much more defined.

Additionally, the Academy has certain restrictions as a federal governmental entity that don’t apply to state schools. Yet when it comes to the broader issues of coordination and integration, both West Point and Annapolis seem to be following the SGAF model in their respective ways. Let me share just a couple of examples.

At the Air Force Academy, the superintendent has an office of Development and Alumni Programs at Harmon Hall which, among other things works with the AOG and the Endowment to coordinate the receipt of gifts for the various programs that many of you have graciously donated to support. We have a good relationship with this office, but our coordination is generally limited to the reasons stated above.

At West Point, there is a similar office called the director of Academy Advancement. When I visited West Point a couple of years ago, I discovered that this office was headed by a full colonel and was housed at the West Point AOG. In additional conversation about this arrangement with my West Point counterpart and the colonel, they explained that it was a “win-win” for both the Academy and the AOG. Not only did it allow for closer cooperation and coordination with respect to gift funds but it also enabled them to strategize together on the best way to

use funds for maximum flexibility and benefit to the Academy while keeping everything “legal.” An example is the AOG’s funding of the Academy superintendent’s travel to the various chapter-sponsored Founder’s Day events around the country.

My counterpart at the Naval Academy, Byron Marchant, also travels extensively with their superintendent to visit chapters and graduate donors throughout the country. This is done in close cooperation and is part of a coordinated and integrated effort.

It was interesting to see this team approach in action at this year’s Navy game. Numerous active and retired Navy senior officers as well as several Air Force senior officers including our chief of staff, vice chief of staff and Academy superintendent were guests of the Navy superintendent at a pregame reception.

After welcoming and introducing about three pages of VIPs — they have been around a lot longer than we have plus it was at Navy — the Navy superintendent turned the microphone over to Byron who spent several minutes focusing on the importance of alumni and chapters across the country and thanking them for their continued connection to the Academy. He also thanked the donors for the hundreds of millions of dollars that they have donated to support the Academy and encouraged them to continue to do so. It was obvious that this was a scripted show and it was very well done. After his pitch, Byron came over to chat

with me and to say hello to our superintendent. Her immediate comment was “It’s clear we have some work to do. We need to up our game.”

To be fair, one of the difficulties of closer and more coordinated action at USAFA is the number of nonprofit entities that are supporting Academy efforts. Lt. Gen. Johnson recognizes this and has recently begun to address this issue in hopes of streamlining the process.

Additionally, our JAG lawyers have historically tended to be more conservative in interpreting the rules governing Academy interaction with Non-Federal Entities (NFEs), which is what our nonprofit support organizations are called. A recent directive from the Secretary of Defense clarifying the level of support and interaction that the services can have with NFEs, and specifically encouraging commanders to be more proactive in providing support, is a major step in the right direction. As we move into 2016, let’s hope that we can take our coordination, collaboration and integration efforts to a new level and significantly “up our game.”

As I write this, the Falcons have learned they will be playing in the Dec. 29 Armed Forces Bowl in Fort Worth, Texas. Let’s hope we beat Cal and finish the season on a strong note!

Happy Holidays to all and wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year! GO FALCONS!

MQ-9 Reaper

COST-EFFECTIVE MULTI-MISSION CAPABLE • The most cost-effective and best-valued Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) • Protects friendly forces and saves lives • Remotely piloted aircraft avoid putting aircrew in harm’s way • Over one million flight hours with mission capability rates greater than 90% • Modular design supports multiple mission payload requirements

• Proven multi-role platform for long endurance Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions

www.ga-asi.com

Leading The Situational Awareness Revolution

©2015 General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

1504_Checkpoints (2015 Issues).indd 1

4/30/15 2015 2:10 PM Checkpoints · December ·5

CHAIRMAN’S JOURNAL 6 · usafa.org

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

E

ach November at our Air Force Academy can best be described as both jam packed and hectic. This year, in conjunction with the Service Academy football game, there were two class reunions, the Fall CORONA Conference where the Chief of Staff and his major Air Force commanders meet to discuss issues, the USAFA Endowment’s fall board meeting, and the Falcon Foundation’s annual dinner. The Academy’s leadership and the 10th Air Base Wing were deeply involved in security as well as coordinating attendance at various functions.

First, congratulations to Randy Jayne ’66 who became the Endowment’s Board Chair succeeding Paul Madera ’78. The AOG Board thanks Paul for his many contributions and looks forward to engaging with Randy to improve collaboration between the friend raisers and the fund-raisers. Randy and Paul are leading a small team to find a replacement for Gen. (Retired) Steve Lorenz ’73 who is stepping down after more than five years as the Endowment’s president and CEO. Friday evening, the Falcon Foundation’s Fall Banquet in Arnold Hall brought together cadets from all four classes who have benefited from the Foundation’s scholarship program. Attending the black-tie event were numerous Foundation trustees, CORONA attendees and the Academy’s senior leadership team. The Foundation’s purpose is to provide scholarships to college or preparatory schools for motivated young people seeking admission to USAFA and a career in the Air Force. These scholarships – up to 100 per year – enable highly motivated young people the opportunity to sharpen their skills in order to gain admission to our Academy.

Then on Saturday, under a clear blue sky and crisp temperatures, the Air Force Falcons football team engaged in a hard-fought, defensive contest with Army West Point. The final score was 20-3 with the Falcons on top, culminating a long, successful week.

Interspersed with CORONA and reunions for ’65 (their 50th) and ’70 (their 45th), two other major events took place. Even though portions of the new Center for Character and Leadership Development (CCLD) building – temporarily named Polaris Hall – were still undergoing construction, Superintendent Lt. Gen. Michelle Johnson ’81 escorted our distinguished visitors through the building to showcase its potential for many different venues not just those unique to the Academy.

Later in the week, I had the opportunity to join many Falcon Foundation trustees on a quick tour. One word describes the entire

facility – magnificent! Thank you to all the classes and graduates who donated money to make this public/private venture an overwhelming success.

Five years ago at their 40th reunion, ’70 dedicated the Southeast Asia Memorial Pavilion (SEAP). At that time, the facility and exterior walls consisted of a large, bronze map of Southeast Asia and class plaques honoring deceased graduates who made the ultimate sacrifice in that conflict. In the intervening five years, ’70 added interactive screens in the building’s interior. Our four Sister Service Academies and numerous fighting units have added plaques recognizing their participation in the war in Southeast Asia. The classes of ’60, ’64, ’65 and ’67, along with Ron Yates ’60, John Fox ’63, Max James ’64 and Anthony Mellos ’64, added a memorial basrelief bronze honoring the 33 graduates who were POWs in that war. The June 2015 issue of Checkpoints highlighted the ceremony honoring these POWs. Over time, it became apparent that it was important to recognize the heroism, sacrifice and valor of Academy graduates in the Vietnam War and, once again, on the occasion of their 45th and 50th reunions respectively, the classes of ’70 and ’65 made another extraordinary gift to the AOG, the Academy and the graduate community at large. They joined together to expand the Southeast Asia Memorial Pavilion (SEAP) by adding the Plaza of Heroes.

As the Class of ’70 was planning the Plaza, ’65 offered to develop the Medal of Honor portion to honor Capt. Lance P. Sijan ’65, the only USAFA graduate thus far to earn our nation’s highest and most prestigious award. The Plaza of Heroes recognizes the conspicuous valor of Air Force Academy graduates who fought in the Vietnam War. Paul Henry ’67 has authored a moving article that accurately captures the dedication ceremony and what the Plaza of Heroes means to graduates and cadets. (See “Plaza of Heroes dedication ceremony,” page 26.)

The Air Force’s second and third highest awards for bravery are, respectively, the Air Force Cross followed by the Silver Star. The 16 USAFA graduates (or if deceased, surviving family members) who were awarded the Air Force Cross were invited to attend the dedication ceremony and 11 recipients or their relatives attended this moving tribute to their bravery. Each stood while the narrator read a synopsis of their award, and a cadet from their former squadron unveiled a plaque in their honor. These individual bronze plaques are along the west wall in the Plaza of Heroes.

The Silver Star was awarded to 205 graduates. Their names and classes are on bronze plaques. Additional awards for valor such as the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star with Valor Device, Purple Heart and Air Medal each have plaques with the approximate number of graduates who received these awards.

I would be remiss if I did not mention another wonderful upgrade to the Heritage Trail. When you walk over the Challenge Bridge enroute to the Southeast Asia Memorial Pavilion and Plaza of Heroes, you encounter a large black wall — the Graduate War Memorial — with names, classes and dates of those graduates who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our nation. This monument is a close replica of the one on the terrazzo. The original monument – a gift from ’70 — was in need of repair and refurbishment and again ’70 along with the AOG shared the cost to resurface the Memorial in black granite and to re-etch the graduates’ names. Well done!

Special thanks to the Class of 1970 Gift Committee (Gary Dahlen, Curt Emery, Mike Torreano and Dick Rauschkolb) and the Class of ’65 leadership (Bart Holaday, Flash Wiley, Dick Schlosberg, Mike Ryan, Terry Drabant, Tad Oelstrom and Howell Estes) who worked tirelessly to make the Plaza of Heroes a reality. Gary, Curt, Bart , T Thompson ’73 and General Mark Welsh III, CSAF, ’76, all spoke of the importance of the SEAP and Plaza of Heroes to our heritage. Behind the scenes, the AOG staff — Corrie Grubbs, Daisy Hall and Amanda Hess — were key to the success of this event. At the conclusion of the event, a flight of four F-4s flew over the Plaza and executed the missing man salute to those who served so valiantly.

From my perspective, the Southeast Asia Memorial Pavilion and Plaza of Heroes have set the standard for any future projects on the Heritage Trail. If you are in Colorado Springs, take time to spend a few moments there. You’ll be impressed.

Until then, GO FALCONS.

Relocating to Colorado and the Majestic Front Range?

Whether buying or selling real estate, choose a Broker you can trust who is protecting your best interests. Allow me the opportunity to be that Broker and put my expertise to work for you.

• Licensed Realtor® for over 25 years • Master in Real Estate, Associate Broker Circle of Achievement.

“Captain Roger” Hill USAF Academy Class of 1970 George Washington University Continental Airlines Retired ERA Herman Group

• Military Relocation Professional • ABR, ePRO, GRI, MCRS, MRP, SFR, SRES • Specializing in Denver to Monument and Parker to Evergreen

Contact Roger directly:

303-956-5955 Roger.Hill@ERA.com B737kid@aol.com

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 7

THE HANGAR

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

AOG Executive Office President & CEO William “T” Thompson ’73, ext. 101 (t.thompson@aogusafa.org) Executive Vice President Gary Howe ’69, ext. 107 Sr. VP for Operations Marty Marcolongo ’88, ext. 146 Sr. VP for Finance & Chief Financial Officer Alton Parrish, ext. 123 History and Heritage Projects Officer Amanda Hess, ext. 103 Executive Assistant Emma Ross, ext. 106 Finance Accountant Joyce Love, ext. 110 Senior Accounting Clerk Janice Baca, ext. 111 Sr. Data Integrity Specialist Kim Wilson, ext. 127 Sr. Data Integrity Specialist John Rice, ext. 132 Data Integrity Specialist Murlea Vance, ext. 130 Communications Sr. VP for Communications Bob McAllister, ext. 142 Creative Director Sarah Larrabee, ext. 144 Senior Editor Jeff Holmquist, ext. 143 Graphic Designer Eric Costello, ext. 149 Photographer/Video Production Specialist Nathan Jones, ext. 140 Class News & Obituary Editor Tom Kroboth, ext. 133 Director of Web Communications Troy Surratt, ext. 125 Systems Administrator Albert Gilligan, ext. 124 Lead Programmer/Web Developer Toby Lortz, ext. 141 Senior Programmer/Systems Analyst Nick Johannsen, ext. 118 Help Desk Specialist Johnny Bollman, ext. 122 Assistant Editor Paul Henry ’67 Contributing Writer Steven Simon ‘77 Business Operations Director of Business Operations Beth Wade Director of Business Programs Vince Greco, ext. 150 Marketing Coordinator Jeff MacLean, ext. 167

Alumni Affairs Vice President for Corporate and Association Relations Corrie Grubbs, ext. 105 Director of Membership Megan Mulligan , ext. 108 Director of Constituent Programs Bill Preston, ext. 121 Constituent Programs Specialist Kelsey Glenner, ext. 100 Membership Services Specialist Don McCarthy, ext. 139 Constituent Engagement Manager Beth Szucs ’97, ext. 115 Doolittle Hall Events/Special Functions Director of Event Planning Michele Bergeman, ext. 136 Special Functions Coordinator Jean Bickford, ext. 148 Alumni Affairs Event Coordinator Sara Dozier, ext. 138 Event Coordinator Daisy Hall, ext. 147 Customer Service and Facility Management Customer Service Supervisor Michele Cowan, ext. 151 Customer Service Representative Brandi Lortz, ext. 154 Merchandising Lead Jan Howard, ext. 153 Merchandising Representative Emily Edwards, ext. 152 Merchandising Representative Tim Klopfenstein, ext. 158 Merchandising Representative Haley Goos, ext. 158 Facilities Superintendent Kenny D’Amico, ext. 155 The Association of Graduates Board of Directors Board Chair Roger Carleton ’67 Stephen Mueller ’79 Vice Chair Vic Andrews ’66 Drew Miller ’80 Secretary Bob Munson ’73 Will Gunn ’80 Treasurer Jack Fry ’67 Cathy McClain ’82 Wally Moorhead ’69 Tamra Rank ’83 Mike Torreano ’70 Kathleen Rock ’98 William Looney ‘72 Mark Rosenow ’03 Larry Fariss ’75 CAS President Garry Dudley ’68 Larry New ’76

THE USAFA ENDOWMENT To email a staff member, use the first and last name. Example: Gina Simler | gina.simler@usafaendowment.org President & CEO Gen. (Ret.) Stephen R. Lorenz ’73 (steve.lorenz@usafaendowment.org), ext. 201 Vice President, Development Jennifer Bateman, ext. 202 Executive Assistant Ruth Reichert, ext. 206 Chief Financial Officer Dennis Scruggs, ext. 203 Director, Accounting Susan Mackaman, ext. 204 Associate Vice President, Development Greg Knedler, ext. 224 Director, Annual Giving Alison Mercer, ext. 221 Director, Research and Prospect Management Patrick O’Toole, 719.291.6548

Director, Gift Planning Dale Zschoche, 719.238.7510 Major Gift Officer Chris Brewer, 804.337.5767 Major Gift Officer Cindi Brothers, 719.464.7684 Leadership Annual Gift Officer Stella Grayson ‘99, 719.331.7430 Class Giving Officer Razelle Doherty, ext. 222 Annual Giving Officer Amanda Brown, ext. 223 Manager, Donor Relations Gina Simler, ext. 200 Stewardship Coordinator Kate Hutchison, ext. 240 Director, Development Communications Jermaine Johnson, ext. 220

Volume 44, number 3 Checkpoints (ISSN 0274-7391) USPS 898-080 is published quarterly in March, June, September and December by the Association of Graduates, U.S. Air Force Academy. (Phone: 719-472-0300, DSN: 333-2067.

FAX: 719-333-4194, E-mail: editor@aogusafa.org.) A portion of your dues pays for your magazine subscription. Additional copies may be purchased for $2.50 each, plus $4.60 for shipping. Periodicals postage paid at the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo., and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Checkpoints, Association of Graduates, Doolittle Hall, 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475. The Editorial Board serves the Checkpoints mission by providing a top quality magazine to the Air Force Academy’s broader community. Together, the editor, VP of Communications, Executive VP and the AOG CEO collaborate to ensure that all articles meet the standards of excellence readers have come to expect of Checkpoints. The AOG reserves the right to publish or omit submissions at its discretion. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policy or attitude of the AOG, its officers or the editorial staff. The appearance of advertisements in this publication does not constitute an endorsement by the AOG of the products or services advertised. Copyright, Association of Graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy, September, 2015.

8 · usafa.org

THE PLATFORM

MATTERS

Special missions call for special aircraft. Gulfstream’s military service record stretches nearly a half-century and is marked by versatility, reliability and performance.

Gulfstream aircraft perform as trainers and transports, intelligence gatherers and medevac platforms. Today’s fleet is in service to over 30 countries, and Gulfstream provides more large-cabin business jets for special missions than any other aircraft manufacturer. Whatever your mission, Gulfstream delivers.

BOB RANCK | +1 703 276 9500 | GULFSTREAM.COM/SPECIALMISSIONS

STATE OF MIND

Feedback, insight and fun from Falcon Nation.

THE HANGAR

More Falcons For Good While reading the “Falcons For Good” section, I was surprised to see that you missed my classmate, Bob Goodwin ’94, who co-founded “Executives Without Borders.”

ExecWB has been doing some amazing work around the globe, and Bob Goodwin is, in no small part, the reason for that.

He also was the CEO at ExecWB between 2008 and 2014, as well as filling his current role as director, corporate affairs, and executive director of Mattel Children’s Foundation.

- Bill Stein, Class of 1994

War on the Homefront A couple of years ago, I asked Checkpoints to consider doing an article on post-traumatic stress disorder and feature AFA grads in it, along with their coping methods.

In the September issue of Checkpoints, I got my wish.

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Steven Simon ’77 went beyond what I’d hoped to see. He touched on the history of the diagnosis, the basis for it in physiology, benefits of PTSD adaptation in the midst of the trauma, newly emerging therapies such as meditation and mindfulness along with traditional approaches (therapy and medication), and the healing power of the great outdoors (horseback riding, fishing, hiking) for building trust and teamwork.

I would only add that evidence shows a service-based experience in nature — e.g., farming — becomes a powerfully transformative one for many veterans.

His report on Eva Belanger’s (’03) personal PTSD experiences (and Chief Master Sgt. Max Grindstaff’s), as well as Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Allison Hickey’s (’80) VA responses to veterans with PTSD, segued to a concluding message of hope from Col. (Dr.) Charles Hoge, retired researcher from Walter Reed Hospital: that with full acceptance of what one has gone through comes strength.

Thanks for publishing such a fine piece.

- JC John Miller, Class of 1969

Plaza of Heroes I was impressed with the amount of time and effort that went into the Plaza of Heroes dedication. The Class of ’70 outdid itself and set a high standard for the rest of the classes. It is a first-class war memorial and more.

The ceremony itself was very moving. I had misty eyes more than once during the ceremony, especially when they unveiled Lance Sijan’s statue. How fitting the statue is in so many ways for his struggle and determination never to give up. It reminded me of all of our struggles during and after the SEA conflict.

In that one sculpture, the artist nailed the spirit and emotion of that time for all of us. I am truly honored to have been part of this event. It was a great joy to be there. It also helped heal some of the old wounds that were inflicted long after the SEA conflict was over.

- Joe Personett, Class of 1969 (Personett is a recipeient of the Air Force Cross)

Letter Guidelines

Checkpoints Facelift Wow! The new layout is fantastic, and thank you so much for adding the issue date on the page footers. I often tear out pages to file away, so having the date at the bottom will really help keep them from getting mixed up.

Keep up the great work!

- Nate Paddock, Class of 1994

10 · usafa.org

Editor’s note: A request for information about Academy graduates who have been involved in nonprofit organizations was sent out to our members. The “Falcons For Good” section, which appeared in the September 2015 Checkpoints, included details from all those who responded.

Checkpoints welcomes the feedback of our readers. Letters should reference content published in the magazine and run 200 words in length or less. The editor reserves the right to determine the suitability of letters for publication and to edit them for length and accuracy.

Please include your name and graduating year if you are an Academy graduate, and email your submission to editor@aogusafa.org.

Do you enjoy the enriched experience of Checkpoints Online?

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

A Very Special Day The Class of 1970 and the Association of Graduates created a very special day for the living Vietnam-era Air Force Cross recipients and the relatives of the deceased recipients.

I’m sure your readers will appreciate the tenacity displayed by the ’70 committee members that culminated in the Plaza of Heroes dedication.

My thoughts during the dedication ceremony returned to hear the words my husband, Dick Brims, spoke many years ago about his experience. He was grateful to his instructor for putting him through grueling simulator sessions. Those sessions prepared him for the chaos he encountered in the cockpit during combat. He was grateful to extract the last Marines off the Koh Tang island beach after an exhausting 14-hour combat duty day.

He was relieved to have left only a single strobe blinking on the beach. He never learned that three Marines separated from the main contingent, and eventually who were captured, were killed by the Khmer Rouge on Koh Tang island.

Finally, he was grateful that his duties as a functional check flight pilot on 15 May 1975 delayed his entry into the fight. But he entered when he was most desperately needed and he was grateful his aircraft, Knife 51, was worthy of the demands made.

- Christina Orff Brims

#TweetBack On #VeteransDay, we all root for the same team. Thank you to those who served our country #SaluteToService #USAA

Holmquist Joins Checkpoints Staff

Jeff Holmquist has been named the new senior editor for Checkpoints magazine and the Association of Graduates communications department.

Holmquist comes to his new role with three decades of experience as an award-winning publication editor, writer, photographer and designer. He most recently was editorial page editor at the Pueblo Chieftain newspaper in Pueblo, Colorado.

He and his wife, Julie, moved to Colorado two years ago and are parents to three grown children.

Prior to moving west, Holmquist served as editor and publisher at several newspapers in Wisconsin and Minnesota. He also served as a public information officer for six years with the Wisconsin and Minnesota Army National Guard.

In his free time, Holmquist serves as a volunteer with his church and Big Brothers Big Sisters. He also enjoys hiking, golf, travel and spending time with family and friends.

Please welcome Jeff to the AOG communications team!

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 11

A

B

C

D

E

F

H

I

G

CHECK IN WITH CHECKPOINTS A. Terry Flower ’64 - As an emeritus professor of Physics and Astronomy, Flower occasionally takes students on science trips. Flower led a

group of 26 students from a consortium of universities to study the southern sky (astronomy.) He went to Tahiti and Bora Bora in January.

B. Jim Icenhour ’67 sent this photo of a recent flight in a reproduction 1911 Wright Flyer. As a charter member of the Super Sabre Society,

he was attending a reunion in Dayton, Ohio. About 40 F-100 pilots got to ride in this unique aircraft, which was built in 1982 and certified by the FAA in 1983. C. Robert Apodaca ’85 - Checking in from the SpaceX’s launch of Falcon9 on April 27, 2015. The picture was taken right as the engines were ignited. D. John Rosser ’73 and his wife, Virginia, checking in at Machu Picchu, Peru. E. Tim Hartigan ’80 on a day hike along the Appalachian Trail. This is from “Beauty Spot” in east Tennessee. F. Jim Porter ’76 was in Copenhagen as part of a Scandinavian itinerary. He and his family were celebrating his son’s graduation from the University of Michigan. The trip included Stockholm and a cruise through the Norwegian fjords. One of the ports was Bergen, near where Jim deployed in both F-4s and F-16s. G. Dave Hallman ’70 in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. The Potala Palace, the traditional winter quarters of the Dalai Lama, sits high on a hill, dominating the city at an altitude of 12,000 feet. H. Tim Graves ’65 and his wife visited Easter Island (Rapa Nui) and shared Checkpoints with a few friends I. From left: Maj. Dear Beloved ’02, Maj. Rok Dedic ’04, Col. Eric Casler ’89, Secretary of the Air Force Deborah James, Capt. Jon Kaskela ’07, Capt. James Nicholas ’09, Col. Brook Leonard ’92 and Lt. Hilary Ince ’12 at the U.S. corral section at the Dubai Airshow 2015.

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

12 · usafa.org

THE HANGAR

THE TRANSMISSON USAFA news from around the globe ... and beyond.

McSally ’88 inducted into RI Aviation Hall of Fame Congresswoman Martha McSally ’88, R-Ariz., was inducted into the Rhode Island Aviation Hall of Fame Nov. 21, 2015, in Cranston, R.I. Following her graduation from the Air Force Academy, McSally earned a master’s degree from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government before proceeding to flight school.

She was later assigned to a squadron flying the A-10 Thunderbolt and was deployed to Kuwait.

In January 1995, she became the first woman in U.S. history to fly a combat aircraft into enemy territory when she flew her first sortie into Iraq in support of the United Nations no-fly zone enforcement.

She later graduated from the Air War College, first in her class of 261 future senior military leaders. McSally’s last assignment was as a division chief at United States Africa Command, responsible for oversight of all U.S. military operations and activities on the continent of Africa, including counter-terrorism and counter-piracy operations.

In 2010, after 26 years in uniform, she retired from the Air Force as a command pilot with more than 2,600 flight hours, including more than 325 combat hours.

After retiring from the Air Force, McSally served as a professor of National Security Studies at the George C. Marshall Center in Germany. She resigned her professorship in 2012 to run for Congress, losing by less than 1 percent. She ran for Congress again in 2014 and won election.

New plates land in time Kevin Hoppin ’90 in concert with Jim McReynolds ’77 and Bobby Clegg ’77 helped make the issuance of special U.S. Air From left: Robert Force Academy vehicle license plates a reality in Virginia. The "Bobby" Clegg trio, along with the persistent networking among countless ’77; James “Jim" alums, coordinated the 350 paid commitments necessary for McReynolds Jr. the production of plates and worked closely with the Virginia ’77; Gen. Mark A. Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to preclude terminaWelsh, III (CSAF) tion of the effort after several previous attempts and extensions ’76; William "T" by the DMV and AOG sponsors over the last several years.

Thompson, president The goal was to have the plates created and showcased & CEO, AOG, ’73; at the Air Force vs. Navy football game Oct. 3, 2015. and Charles "Chuck" McGee ’77 unveil the new USAFA license plates for the state of Virginia at the Oct. 3 Air ForceNavy game.

14 · usafa.org

This goal was realized only with the special support and personal intervention of DMV employees Cynthia Clark and Carolyn Easley. Fellow ’77ers — McReynolds, Clegg, and Chuck McGee — unveiled their new license plates at the Association of Graduates Tailgate event prior to the big game.

Lindgren ’95 completes space walks Kjell Lindgren ’95, an astronaut aboard the International Space Station, took his second walk in space Nov. 6, 2015.

Lindgren and astronaut Scott Kelly spent about six hours outside the station, 200 miles above the Earth, to work on its cooling system.

Lindgren took his first walk in space Oct. 27. He was the station’s flight engineer and was aboard the ISS for five months. He returned to Earth Dec.11.

In September, he chatted via teleconference from the ISS with children of other 1995 Academy graduates during a Class of 1995 reunion at the Academy.

Lindgren later became the first astronaut to play bagpipes in space. He played “Amazing Grace” on board the International Space Station in memory of scientist Victor Hurst, 48, who passed away in October. Hurst had helped Lindgren during his training.

Robinson ’96 joins surgery clinic After serving with the Air Force for more than 15 years, Ben C. Robinson ’96 has joined the Cedar Orthopedic Surgery Specialty Clinic, Cedar City, Utah.

Robinson attended the Air Force Academy, earning a degree in biology in 1996.

He attended medical school at the University of Utah until 2002 and then worked as an Air Force flight surgeon from 2003-05.

He spent his residency — which he completed in 2010 — in a combined military and civilian facility in San Antonio, Texas.

Griess ’95 seeks California Senate post Lt. Col. (Ret.) Gabe Griess ’95, Vacaville, Calif., has announced his candidacy for the 3rd District California State Senate seat. He will square off against two other candidates for the Democratic nomination in the June 2016 election.

Griess graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy, served in Afghanistan and completed two tours in the Pentagon. He previously established and commanded a squadron of 77 air advisers dedicated to building partnerships in Central and South America and the Caribbean. Griess retired from the Air Force after a 20-year career.

Sheppard ’85 hired as county manager John T. Sheppard ’85 was appointed Seneca County, New York’s new county manager effective Nov. 9, 2015. His contract runs through Dec. 31, 2017.

A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, Sheppard has an undergraduate degree in financial management with general engineering and science courses. In 1992, he received a master’s of business administration degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y. He attended Squadron Officer School, graduating with distinction, at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama in 1993.

In 1997-98, he attended the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He was a student of joint operations and U.S. Army doctrine.

His work experience includes squadron commander, squadron operations center duty officer, aircraft commander, chief of curriculum development, assistant operations officer, chief of standardized and evaluation flight examiner, airlift director, flight examiner, chief of pilot qualification and undergraduate pilot instructor for the Air Force from 1986 until his retirement in 2006.

Popovich ’70 named USA Basketball men’s head coach Five-time National Basketball Association championship coach Gregg Popovich ’70 has been named head coach of the USA Basketball Men’s National Team.

The longtime San Antonio Spurs head coach will serve in that role from 2017-20. He will take over as head coach for Mike Krzyzewski following the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Popovich’s tenure will include all USA Men’s National Team training camps, and if the USA qualifies, the 2019 FIBA World Cup in China and the 2020 Summer Olympic Games (July 24-Aug. 9) in Tokyo, Japan.

The USA National Team owns a 63-game winning streak dating back to 2006. The USA men have won backto-back Olympic gold medals (2008 and 2012) and backto-back FIBA World Cup gold medals (2010 and 2014).

“Gregg Popovich is the ideal choice to take over as head coach of the USA program,” Krzyzewski said. “Because of his military background in which he selflessly served his country, coupled with his unique ability to bring out the best in his teams, this leadership appointment makes perfect sense.”

Popovich played basketball for the Air Force Academy for four seasons. As a senior, he served as team captain and finished as that season’s leading scorer.

Popovich returned to the Academy in 1973 as head basketball coach of the USAFA Prep School for three seasons (1973-76). He spent three seasons (1976-79) as an assistant basketball coach at the U.S. Air Force Academy.

A fond farewell Col. Mark Wells ’75 finished teaching his final course with the Air Force Academy History Department on May 8, 2015. The department recognized his career with the Academy during a brief ceremony that day.

Wells has served several tours of duty with the History Department, culminating with his appointment as the permanent professor and department head in 2000.

He also served as the school’s officer representative for the football team and the Academy’s faculty athletics representative to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

Marking an end During the early part of his career, Wells was a comto a 15-year run mand pilot with more than 3,200 flying hours in the as the History Department head, Mark Wells is promoted to brigadier general during his retirement ceremony. His wife and daughter were on hand to pin a star to each of his shoulders during the ceremony.

KC-135 refueler and several varieties of training aircraft.

A 1993 graduate of the Army War College, Wells previously served as a military assistant to the Supreme Allied Commander, Europe.

The Academy Class of 1975 held its 40th reunion in early October and conducted a retirement ceremony and reception for Wells on Oct. 9. Many of his Academy classmates were present to honor the “last man standing” — the final member of the class to depart active duty.

As is customary for retiring permanent professors who devote their career to service education, training and mentorship, the retirement ceremony included promotion of Wells to the rank of brigadier general.

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 15

A License to Make a Difference

Charles ‘97

Mike ‘70

Andy ‘77

Matthew ‘17

When Lisa (Preston) Schmidt arrived at the Air Force Academy in 1984 she already possessed her private pilot’s license. In fact, she had it before her driver’s license. “I was excited to attend USAFA knowing that I could only begin to fathom the unexpected places, geographically and figuratively, it would take me,” says the Long Island native. After building a rewarding career in the Air Force and beyond, she gained an appreciation for the immense impact USAFA introduced into her life.

An Academy Family Legacy

Mike Huber ’70, was the first in a line of family members who have attended the Academy, and the “Many of thewill insights, experiences, skills,50 andyears. His wife’s brother, It actuallyAndy gives me a truefollowed and distinctive sense of family legacy stretch more than Krott, Mike, graduating professional network elements I possess today were satisfaction to be able to give back in this way. ” in 1977.

rooted in, or enhanced during, my time as a cadet.

I’m very thankful to have been part of that learning Mike’s son, Charles, graduated 1997, environment which held thein bar highand withAndy’s much son, Matthew, is in the class of 2017.

And, Mike’s second purpose.”

cousin, Natalie Ketner, is in the class of 2019. Mike also Being the daughter of educators, LisaAcademy easily wanted to leave his mark on the larger family, acknowledges the positive difference that can result by arranging gifts in his estate plan to the Class of ’70 in an individual’s life thanks to instructive exposure.

Fund, and the USAFA Endowment/AOG.

For that reason, she began to think forward about how direct results of her actions could serve to promote such “Theopportunities.

Academy taught me a great deal about team work Lisa commented “I believe many people and the value of relying other. think they have to beon oneach par with theThose likes ofattributes the Bill served me well as a pilot in the Air Force, and in my the and Melinda Gates Foundation in order to consider corporate career with The Procter & Gamble Company. option of estate gifts. When I allowed myself to really explore the thought freely, I was surprised to realize the benefits my personal contribution stood to make.

Ultimately, Lisa chose to offer her future support by arranging for a planned gift to USAFA, for which she is It just seems that the Academy should be able recognized byright the Polaris Society.

to rely on me in the future.” Now retired, Mike and

She laughs to add “Heck, I wouldn’t have my Melissa continue to reside in Ohio,even enjoying travel and amazing husband and adventure buddy were it not for grandchildren. the Academy!” Her husband is Jeff Schmidt, also a 1988 grad (lifetime AOG member) and they are happily active In addition to helping to secure an exceptional future for in the community of San Antonio, Texas.

cadets who will join you on the long blue line, a bequest In to helping an exceptional future or addition life-income gift toto thesecure USAFA Endowment mayfor also cadets willburden join youon onyour the long blueand line, a bequest lessen who the tax family estate.

For or life-incomeand gift assistance, to the USAFA Endowment may alsoat information contact Dale Zschoche lessen the tax burden on your family and estate.

For dale.zschoche@usafaendowment.org or 719.238.7510. information and assistance, contact Dale Zschoche at dale.zschoche@usafaendowment.org or 719.238.7510.

THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY

ENDOWMENT ENDOWMENT www.usafa.org/legacy www.usafa.org/legacy

We’re No. Making Sense of the Rankings

By Brig. Gen. Andrew Armacost, Dean of Faculty

E

ach fall, colleges and universities around the nation break out the giant “We’re #1” foam rubber fingers in anticipation of another great year. The anticipation of chanting, “We’re No. 1” is palpable as we await the U.S. News and World Report’s annual best colleges rankings, the Forbes top colleges list or any number of rankings that feed our need for comparison. In fact, we should be happy with foam rubber fingers that say, “We’re No. 13!” or “We’re No. 25!”

A common question I’m asked by grads is, “Can you help me understand our rankings?” Let me note that each publication has a different set of criteria with different levels of importance for factors like acceptance rate, faculty support and alumni giving. It is often difficult to know why we’re No. 29 on the U.S. News listing of top liberal arts colleges and West Point is number 22. Or why USA Today has us as the No. 2 public university and the Naval Academy at No. 1.

What I do know is that, whatever the source, these rankings place us in truly exemplary company with other outstanding colleges and universities from across the nation.

Our individual programs have received great acclaim. On closer inspection, according to the 2015 U.S. News and World Report, USAFA ranked third for U.S. public schools and fifth for undergraduate engineering. Our aeronautical/astro-

18 · usafa.org

nautical engineering programs are ranked No. 2 for the 15th consecutive year, and our management program is the top among undergraduate universities.

I don’t get wrapped around the axle on college rankings.

These aren’t the only way to assess academic programs and, in fact, I’d argue it’s not the best way to do so. In fact, I’m more interested in how USAFA graduates perform their duties, how they contribute to their communities, and how our academic programs meet Air Force needs while leading the way in higher education accreditation. We will always strive to innovate and adapt. Make no mistake, USAFA is a top-tier academic institution that delivers an education that blends the social sciences and humanities with engineering and science.

Top-tier institutions habitually assess and improve their programs. USAFA’s curriculum will always be in motion. In fact, we are in the process of fundamentally changing how the curriculum is delivered. As always, courses will form an intentional, coherent whole, organized to promote learning and growth.

The process to shape the curriculum, however, will be founded on an outcomes-based approach. This will empower cadets with a sense of ethics and respect, as well as strong and transferable intellectual and practical skills, such as communica-

THE HANGAR tion, analytical and problem-solving skills, and a demonstrated ability to apply knowledge and skills in real-world settings.

The curriculum will be grounded on foundational knowledge – expected of any accredited university program – but responsive to Air Force needs. As one example, we now offer an academic minor in Nuclear Weapons and Strategy, and we offer a bachelor of science degree in Computer and Network Security.

In addition to our core curriculum and academic majors, we offer a number of experiences that allow our cadets to develop outside the classroom. Let me give you a glimpse into these activities and how they are rounding out our cadets’ education.

The USAFA Forensics Team recently took first place at the Pan-Pacific Debate Championship. Two teams competed in the Austro-Hungary Debate Week where, for the first time ever, both teams made it to the finals. USAFA ranked first among 80 participating teams in preliminary rounds.

USAFA went on to the U.S. Universities National Championship, where Endowment support enabled four cadet teams to compete. After nine rounds at the 2015 World Universities Debate Championship, USAFA was the No. 4 ranked U.S. team, making USAFA the only institution in the western United States to break into elimination rounds at the World Championship. This year, USAFA fielded its first women’s team at the Athens Open, where they were finalists in the warm-up for the 2016 World Championship.

Each fall, eight to 12 cadets are selected to take Law 480, Topics in Constitutional Law and Appellate Advocacy, and compete in two-person teams in regional and national moot court competitions against other undergraduate teams. USAFA’s Moot Court Team grapples with complex constitutional law issues created by the American Collegiate Moot Court Association. USAFA won the Western Regional tournament of 40 teams and qualified for nationals. At the national tournament, two USAFA teams won awards for advancing to the “Round of 32” and two cadets earned top-25 individual orator awards. In addition, one USAFA team placed second in the nation in the written Petitioner Brief category.

Cyberspace superiority is an Air Force core function, and the Academy is preparing cadets for the intellectual challenges associated with the cyber domain. What capabilities does a new USAFA graduate need to be part of an effective cyber warfare team and defeat hybrid attacks that rapidly adapt with new technology? How about advanced digital forensics, incident response, hacker tools, mobile device security, ethical hacking and intrusion detection?

Thanks to support from the Endowment, USAFA operates a Cyber Warfare Club and a highly successful Cyber Competition Team. To facilitate training in current practices in cyber defense, cadets voluntarily give up their spring break to attend classes offered by the SANS Institute, a leading cyber security

training organization. In 2014, the USAFA Cyber Competition Team placed second in the National Security Agency’s Cyber Defense Exercise and ninth in the National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition against 180 graduate and undergraduate teams.

We’re steadily working toward the stand-up of the Air Force Cyber Innovation Center (AFCIC) — an AF capital investment that will be a public-private design center focused on cadet development and cyber security. It will integrate AF, academic and industry expertise with state-of-the-art technology. USAFA cadets, faculty and partners, working together, will use Design Thinking, a transdisciplinary problem-solving method that fosters rapid innovation, to help solve tough, real-world problems.

AFCIC will be an essential element of the Air Force’s cyber enterprise, focusing on technology design and innovation as well as cadet education. We must carefully prepare the next generation of graduates with a full understanding of cyber as a new domain of conflict and how it impacts our ability to function in our traditional domains of operation. The study of cyber is not simply the realm of the computer scientist or the electrical engineer, as threats in this environment involve human behavior as well as legal and political dimensions.

Our work in this new center will be interdisciplinary, guiding the integration of the technical and human elements to yield effective command and control across air, space and cyber.

Educating the next generation of Air Force leaders means exposing cadets to advanced technological tools early, which is why we are in the process of completely renovating the library.

Rows and rows of books and chest of drawers packed with catalog cards are no longer the hallmark of advanced libraries, which still play a critical role in higher education. USAFA’s Library of the Future will be a functional, integrated, sustainable and future-ready library for cadets, faculty, staff and the public. While protecting the architectural heritage of the library, it will promote flexibility and interdisciplinary collaboration, and be an example of energy and environmental stewardship.

“We’re No. 29 … We’re No. 29!” And last year, 89 USAFA graduates enrolled in graduate schools at universities like Harvard, Rice and Carnegie Melon, to name a few. Others went to medical school, law school and PhD programs at RAND. However, most reported for duty immediately and became pilots, cyber officers, space and nuclear operators, engineers … and the list goes on.

Ten faculty members were selected as Colorado Professors of the Year and nine are Fulbright Scholars. By the way, how many universities have 29 faculty members who have earned Bronze Stars?

“Educating, training and inspiring men and women to become officers of character motivated to lead the United States Air Force in service to our Nation” is what we do. We love it, we’re good at it, and we’ll continue to evolve!

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 19

LONG BLUE LADLE This chili is a medium/high heat chili that gains its spice and flavor from a wide variety of peppers to include the “secret” peppers from the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands (CNMI).

Pacific Pepper Chili Capt. Ryan White, Class of 2008

Ingredients 1 lb beef chuck steak, 1/2 chopped and 1/2 ground 1 lb ground beef 1 lb ground hot Italian sausage 1 (15 oz) can red beans, drained 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained 1 (15 oz) can chili beans in sauce 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice 1 (28 oz) can diced “Fire Roasted” tomatoes with juice 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste 1 large yellow onion, chopped 3 stalks celery, chopped 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped 1 yellow chili pepper, seeded and chopped 1 tablespoon bacon bits 4 cubes beef bouillon 1/2 bottle of your favorite lager beer 1/4 cup chili powder 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon oregano 2 teaspoons cumin 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon white sugar 4 teaspoons chili paste

Directions 1. Cut half of the beef chuck steak into 1/2” cubes and grind the other half in a meat grinder or blender. Add all meat to a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Drain off excess grease.

2. Chop onion, celery and peppers. (For convenience, I recommend seeding the peppers and placing all peppers, celery and onion in a blender and using the pulse function until they are finely chopped.) Add onion, celery and peppers to pot.

3. Add all remaining ingredients.

4. Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer for up to 4 hours, stirring occasionally.

5. Serve with ladle and feel free to top with cheese, sour cream and/or green onions. Delicious when paired with tortilla chips.

20 · usafa.org

THE HANGAR

Checkpoints · September 2015 · 21

‘BOLT FROM THE BLUE’ ARRIVES AT DOOLITTLE HALL Academy grads coordinate purchase of limited-edition bronze falcon statue

by Jeff Holmquist

T

wo years ago, Dana Arbaugh ’70 and DK Shelton ’70 happened upon a falcon sculpture at a gallery in Sedona, Ariz., and they struck up a conversation with the artist.

“DK and I were stopped in our tracks by his big, beautiful bronze falcon,” Arbaugh recalls.

The sculpture, “Bolt from the Blue,” took on even greater meaning when the Academy grads heard the sculptor’s personal story.

Chris Navarro, owner of Navarro Gallery and Sculpture Garden, is the son of Lt. Col. Herbert Navarro, whose 30-year military career included more than two decades with the Air Force and service during World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War. “My whole life has been tied to the Air Force. I grew up on Air Force bases and graduated from high school on an Air Force base,” sculptor Chris Navarro says. “I thought my sculpture — a limited-edition bronze — would be a great fit for the Academy.”

Arbaugh and Shelton told Navarro they thought the sculpture should find a permanent home at the Air Force Academy, where the falcon is its mascot.

“We said to each other that we must find a way for it to be placed at our alumni house, Doolittle Hall,” Arbaugh recalls.

Arbaugh and Shelton worked with fellow graduates Chuck Reed ’70 and Bill Coleman ’71 to begin raising funds for the project. Within six weeks, more than $31,000 was pledged toward the project.

“It was especially rewarding to see how supportive and responsive all members of both our AOG [Association of Graduates] and Endowment were in helping us make this happen,” Arbaugh says. “We could not have done this without Gary Howe, Amanda Hess, Greg Knedler and Kate Hutchison. It was truly a team effort.”

“Bolt from the Blue” arrived at its permanent home in front of Doolittle Hall on Nov. 4, 2015, just four hours before the Class of ’70 gathered for its 45th reunion.

“My father would be honored to know that one of his sons created a monumental sculpture permanently placed at the Air Force Academy,” Navarro says. “I’m real proud to have it displayed there.”

Among the donors who made the sculpture’s purchase possible were Loren Ainsworth ’70, Dana Arbaugh ’70 (two donations in memory of

24 · usafa.org

Sculptor Chris Navarro stands next to his creation, “Bolt from the Blue.”

Classmates primarily from the USAFA Class of 1970 helped raise the necessary funds to purchase the falcon statue as a gift to the Academy and the AOG. John Haselton ’70 and Jeff Field ’70), Gary Bagliebter ’70 (in memory of Dick Christie ’70 and John Haselton ’70), John Banbury ’69, Scott Barker ’70, Joseph Bores ’70, William Brant ’68, William Coleman ’71, Dana Demand ’70 (in memory of John Haselton ’70), Anthony DeSantis ’70 (in memory of Arthur Hardy ’70), Christopher Dunbar ’70 (in memory of William S. “Bud” Hargrove ’70), Mike Dunn ’70, John Hatlelid ’70 (in memory of Jeff Field ’70), Mark Lacaillade ’70, H.M. Lambert ’70 (in memory of classmates Mike Blassie, Mike Turose, Art Hardy, John Haselton, Rocky Rovito, Dick Christy, Bud Hargrove, Fran Townsend, Tom Pratt, Bob Chambers, Steve Gravrock and Ray Bshero), Angus MacDonald ’70, Sandra Haselton McKenny (in memory of John Haselton ’70), Donald Mills ’70 (in memory of Jeff Field ’70), Charles Reed ’70, Michael Ross ’81, Kermit Schayltz, Carl Schoen ’70, David Shelton ’70, Jack Trimble ’70 (in memory of Gary Gumbert ’70 and Jeff Field ’70) and James Vogler ’73 (in memory of his father, James B. Vogler). Two donors wished to remain anonymous. (The Class of ’70 gift committee also contributed to the project.)

THE HANGAR

12015 USAF Alumni Magazine Ad.indd 1

9/28/2015 10:44:16 PM

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 25

PLAZA OF

DEDICATION

HEROES

CEREMONY

Classes of 1965 and 1970 Jointly Dedicate the Plaza of Heroes | by Paul Henry ’67

O

n Nov. 6, 2015, 42 years after the Paris Peace Accord was signed and some 40 years following the last official U.S. combat engagement of the Vietnam era during the Mayaguez incident, the Air Force Academy classes of 1965 and 1970 jointly dedicated the Plaza of Heroes adjacent to the Heritage Trail’s Southeast Asia Pavilion.

Challenged by a capricious Colorado day of cold, wind and the odd snow shower, more than 1,000 people took part in what one participant called “an occasion to remember all the grads who served in Vietnam, and especially those we lost.”

Indeed, thousands of Academy graduates from the 15 Vietnam-era classes (’59 through ’73) served in the theater — 151 were killed and 33 were taken prisoner — solemn statistics that evoke the high price so many paid during that long and nationally controversial conflict.

The over-capacity crowd for the dedication ceremony included members and guests of the classes of ’65 and ’70 celebrating their 50th and 45th reunions, respectively.

Also on hand were dedication honorees, honoree representatives and families, along with the Academy superintendent, senior staff and cadets. In lending the event a special dimension of significance and support, the USAF Chief of Staff and all four-star CORONA Conference attendees were there to mark this moving occasion.

Everyone in the audience was given a beautifully printed program which, under a stunning photo of the Plaza and its artfully crafted components, succinctly stated what the participants were here for: “The Plaza of Heroes honors graduates who performed conspicuous acts of valor during the Southeast Asia/Vietnam War.” In the center of the north wall, a stillcovered sculpture of Lance Sijan, the Academy’s only Medal of Honor recipient, awaited unveiling and behind it was dramatic etched glass depicting the downing of his aircraft over the rocky karst ridges of North Vietnam. To the right were the words of his Medal of Honor Citation, and to the left were the Articles of the Code of Conduct. u

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 27

On the granite west wall, bronze plaques honor each individual recipient of the Air Force Cross. Silver Star recipients also are individually named on adjacent panels. Other plaques along the west wall recount the numbers of graduates who earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star with Valor Device, Purple Heart and Air Medal.

The Class of ’65 conceived, developed, refined and funded all aspects of the north wall sculpture and glass tableau, while ’70 (which donated and has enhanced the original Southeast Asia Pavilion) provided the ideas and resources behind the west wall plaques. Both classes contributed significant monies in support of long-term maintenance and care of the complex.

In a pre-ceremony interview, Gary Dahlen ’70 indicated that “the Plaza is an extension of the Southeast Asia Pavilion. It’s a tribute to the many individual acts of valor accomplished by graduates during the war.

The Plaza is a place you can go to feel the combined effects of those acts.”

Howell Estes ’65 pointed out that “the Plaza will also be a place to be used for significant special events. This is an ideal site for promotions and pin-ons, retirements, history classes, honor and ethics classes, and leadership classes,” he said. “It’s a place we really need to get the cadets to, so they can see the reality of what they are training for. Here, they are reminded that they are America’s warriors and what that means.”

Commenting on the total effect of the Pavilion and Plaza complex, Dahlen added, “unit achievements during the conflict were significant, as were the individual acts of valor. The presence of many unique unit plaques is like a history lesson in and of themselves. Along with the USAFA class bronzes honoring their fallen classmates, each of our four sister academies [Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine] has placed commemorations for their living and deceased graduates who served in Southeast Asia.”

Howell commented that “the Code of Conduct also plays a significant part in the Southeast Asia experience, and ties all the medal recipients we are honoring to all those who fought in and served during the conflict.”

Ground breaking for the Plaza of Heroes took place on May 15, 2015, and construction (delayed past the August target date by record-breaking spring and summer “monsoons”) was completed in October. Of course, the project end-to-end ran much longer than that.

“The full life cycle of the Plaza from concept to realization was almost two years” said Association of Graduates History and Heritage Project Officer Amanda Hess. “The architect and contractor were very accommodating and performed superbly. It goes without saying that the project artist (Jim Nance ’71) did a phenomenal job with what was a huge task on the Sijan sculpture, the glass etching and gold inlay on the north wall, and the plaques honoring graduate decoration recipients.”

Hess said the north wall alone includes some 10,000 pounds of glass that is held in place by sets of specially designed 2,000-pound stainless steel brackets. The entire wall installation was completed in a single day.

“The story of the sculpture is an interesting one,” said its creator Jim Nance ’71, “I had done an early drawing and mock-up for another project that did not end up being pursued. I had totally forgotten about it, but Howell Estes (’65), who had seen the drawing, came to me and we came up with the idea for the final concept and pose. The class wanted a 28 · usafa.org

depiction that was pretty gritty and descriptive of what Lance really did, what he went through.”

Nance said the first challenge was getting the karst right. With the aid of a professor of geology at Colorado State University, and with the help of the Park Service, Nance made three eight-foot molds of exposed karst at Devil’s Backbone near Loveland, Colo.

Guy Gruters ’64 had spoken with Sijan after his capture so Gruthers was able to give the sculptor plenty of guidance about the so-called “wait a minute” vines that impeded movement along the ground while Sijan evaded capture. Nance also was able to gather information about Sijan’s physical injuries, and about how he used his life preserver equipment to splint his leg.

“From a distance, Lance looks like he is resting, but as you get closer, you see he is moving — his eyes, brow, body language and musculature — the intense facial expression — all contribute to his sense of determination,” Nance said. “It’s about day four of his 46-day evasion. His beard stubble reflects that.”

Nance used 39 separate molds for the composition. After each piece was cast, he welded it all together like a jigsaw puzzle.

“Sculpting is an emotional experience,” Nance admitted. “After working with it for a while, I start talking to the figure; you bury yourself in it and think of it in your dreams.”

In his welcome at the dedication ceremony, William “T” Thompson ‘73, Association of Graduates president and chief executive officer, underscored the significance of the occasion.

“Our heritage is critically important because it tells our story — where we’ve been, what we’ve done,” he told the crowd. “In short, it defines who we are as a graduate community and as an institution. We should all enthusiastically embrace it. We should vigorously support it and we should be unrepentantly proud of it.”

Gen. Mark A. Welsh III ’76, Air Force Chief of Staff, opened his remarks with a direct appeal to cadets. “We need your pride, talent and commitment to the profession of arms.”

Looking around the Plaza, he added, “This is what it’s all about.

This is the Long Blue Line. It’s sitting here; it’s represented all around you. This is what you have chosen to assume. We are here to honor the valiant for their bravery and willingness to give everything for a cause, for an ideal.”

Singling out the 11 valor award recipients and family representatives seated in the gallery, he added “and to honor you and to say thank you for your service and your sacrifice.”

Bart Holaday, Class of ’65 president, presided over the sculpture unveiling and expressed the class’ hope that “this Plaza will be a constant reminder to all who visit, especially cadets, of the reality of the Code of Conduct, the importance of our Air Force Academy, and the heroism and sacrifice made by its graduates on behalf of our great nation.”

Janine Sijan-Rozina, Capt. Sijan’s sister, described the moment when the covering cloth fell away.

“The audible gasp as they unveiled the bronze statue in Lance’s honor revealed the deepest emotions of the participants who were there to engage in history,” she said. “We were all taken with the artist’s approach

in giving Lance such forward moving determination … giving us each a call to action to bring out the very best in ourselves.”

People in the audience were clearly moved as Curt Emery ’70 read the 16 Air Force Cross recipient summaries enumerating the extraordinary actions of some exceptional people: Monte Moorberg ’61, Karl Richter ’64, Don Stevens ’60, John McTasney ’63, Phil Maywald ’63, Jackson Hudson ’64, Rhip Worrell ’68, Mike Francisco ’67, Dale Stovall ’67, Steve Ritchie ’64, Joe Personett ’69, Jeff Feinstein ’68, John Caroll ’62, Tilford Harp ’70, Don Backlund ’71 and Dick Brims ’71.

As each description was read, an assigned cadet unveiled the bronze plaque in the individual’s name. Exactly at the conclusion of the plaque dedications, a four-ship of F-4 Phantom fighters, fondly known by those who flew them as “the Rhino” or “Double Ugly,” roared overhead. Number three in the formation pulled up in the stirring “missing man” salute. The last official sound of the ceremony was the cheers of the audience as F-4 exhaust smoke settled lower in the sky above the Plaza.

Reactions to the Plaza dedication were varied, but shared a characteristic reverence and awe. Said one ’65 grad, “Spectacular ceremony!

Pictures don’t do the Plaza justice. You have to see it in person.”

A classmate chimed in, “we picked the right gift. Honoring the medal of valor awardees was exactly the right thing to do.”

Members of the ’70 contingent were no less expressive, emphasizing pride in the class’ latest achievement.

“I am so proud of our class,” said one. “We have set the bar for other classes to emulate. We are indeed the ‘legacy’ class!’”

Tom Waskow ’70 recalled the sense of “benign neglect” he felt upon returning from combat so many years ago. For him, the Plaza of Heroes is “the capstone of a welcome that my generation of airmen did not receive. Thanks to the efforts of the Class of 1970, my return to the U.S. is now complete.”

United States Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh ’76 speaks to more than 1,000 people in attendance at the Plaza of Heroes dedication. The event was held at the Association of Graduates’ Southeast Asia Pavilion on Friday, Nov. 6.

Honorees and family members, too, said their piece. Christina Brims, widow of Dick Brims ’71, spoke for many of the family representatives.

“The Class of 1970 and the Association of Graduates created a very special day for the living Vietnam-era Air Force Cross recipients and the relatives of the deceased representatives,” she said. “My thoughts during the dedication ceremony returned to hear the words my husband spoke many years ago about his experience.”

Rhip Worrell ’68 was glad for the chance to reunite with classmates, other grads and friends. “The Chief’s words were inspiring … challenging cadets at the ceremony to mentor the wing on what they heard and experienced here today, and to lead with the same conviction and dedication to duty as those who were honored at the Plaza. In the words I would use in my Forward Air Controller days … ‘Hit my smoke!’”

“When we [honorees] talked among ourselves,” said Joe Personett ’69, “we all agreed we were a little embarrassed and overwhelmed by all the attention we were given. We agreed we were just a bunch of guys doing our duty, doing what we were trained to do. We just did what was expected of us as Air Force officers and AFA grads. Nothing special. Just another ‘day at the office.’”

The ceremony was over. The crowd was long dispersed, in search of a place to warm numb hands and feet. Everyone involved had experienced something special, something that in a very direct way came out of a conflict in which this nation was engaged — from advisement to direct combat to disengagement — literally for 20 years from 1955 to 1975.

It was a war in which an estimated 1.5 million Americans saw combat, more than 58,000 Americans perished, and about which citizens of all stripes had strong feelings. Perhaps two takeaways from the Plaza of Heroes dedication are that our country will rightly never close the book on Vietnam, and that the Academy community can be justly proud of its chapters in the story.

SIGNIFICANT

Col. John B. McTasney ’63

Col. Donald D. Stevens ’60

Brig. Gen. Dale E. Stovall ’67

Col. Rowland H. Worrell III ’68

Christina Brims Widow of Maj. Richard C. Brims ’71

Brig. Gen. Richard S. Ritchie ’64

VALOR RECIPIENTS

From top: Mr. Joe Personett ’69, Lt. Col. Phillip Maywald ’63 and Brice Jones ’61 (friend of Capt. Monte Moorberg ’61)

Karla Welch & Betty Siersma Sister and daughter 1st Lt. Karl W. Richter ’64

Nancy & Don Backland Sister and father of Maj. Donald R. Backlund ’71

Janine Sijan-Rozina Sister of Capt. Lance P. Sijan ’65 Checkpoints · December 2015 · 31

From Left, Gen. (Ret.) Steve Lorenz ‘73, President & CEO of the USAFA Endowment; Lynn Campion, Chairman of the Helen K. and Arthur E. Johnson Foundation Board of Trustees; Lt. Gen. Michelle Johnson ‘81, Superintendent; Dr. Ervin Rokke ’62, Senior Scholar in Residence at the Center for Character and Leadership Development.

MAKING HISTORY The USAFA Endowment is pleased to announce the largest private gift in Air Force Academy history: a $6 million legacy grant from the Coloradobased Helen K. and Arthur E. Johnson Foundation. This gift marks the second

contribution by the foundation, to the Center for Character and Leadership

Development and will establish the Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Chair for the Study of the Profession of Arms. The Academy and the Endowment are truly appreciative of this transformative gift.

www.usafa.org/give

ACADEMY-CITY RELATIONS STAND THE TEST OF TIME

WRITTEN BY PAUL HENRY ’67 | ILLUSTRATIONS BY ERIC COSTELLO

A

nyone who paid even casual attention to last year’s celebration of the Academy’s 60th anniversary as an institution could not have missed the significant role the city of Colorado Springs played in the Academy story, literally from before the beginning.

The official beginning was April 1, 1954, when President Dwight Eisenhower signed Public Law 325, formally authorizing establishment of the United States Air Force Academy.

But Colorado Springs officials and private citizens had vigorously campaigned since 1949, when the first Academy Site Selection Board was formed, to bring the Academy to their city. They redoubled their efforts when the second Site Selection Board was convened in 1954 by Harold Talbott, secretary of the Air Force.

The Colorado Springs Academy Committee presented the Site Selection Commission a series of brochures (and apparently a host of persuasive arguments) in convincing the commission to choose its city. On the occasion of Secretary Talbott’s June 24, 1954, announcement that Colorado Springs had been chosen from among some 580 site proposals across 45 states, The Christian Science Monitor reported: “It was neither politics nor propaganda that brought the United States Air Force Academy to Colorado, but the excellence of the site and the quiet persistence of Colorado Springs leaders who had been working on the project for six years.”

Since those early days, both the Academy and Colorado Springs have undergone many changes. Each has increased in size, and each has taken on at least some of the social and economic characteristics of the successive decades through which they have passed. u Checkpoints · December 2015 · 35

Over the past 60 years, the Academy’s and city’s shared role as stewards of the Pikes Peak region has fostered a family-like bond. As in any family history, there have probably been high moments and low, lean times and flush times, but the fundamental soundness of the relationship appears to have endured.

An April 2015 Colorado report on military value and economic impact of Department of Defense activities in the state advocates cultivating community interaction that includes the “character of social, economic, quality of life and cultural mutual dependence between military installations and their assigned personnel within their surrounding communities.” If that brand of community interaction could be said to exist in Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region, then it is perhaps not surprising that today nearly 2,800 Academy graduates and their families call it home. Some 87 current members of the Cadet Wing are from the Colorado Springs area.

In revisiting the state of the Academy and community relations for our readers, Checkpoints has sought input from a few select people — some looking outward from USAFA to town and some inward from the city to the Academy. Each has provided their sense of key city-Academy relationship components and summarized their assessment of the state of those relations.

FRONT RANGE PARTNERS

Mayor John Suthers

36 · usafa.org

Colorado Springs civic leaders and the Air Force Academy’s top officer say the city and the Academy are united in strengthening the Front Range community and making it a better place for business and families.

“We share reinforcing goals,” said Lt. Gen. Michelle Johnson ‘81, the Academy superintendent. “We value innovation, education and collaboration. To say our relationship is based solely on economics is to miss the big picture.

Our shared roles as citizens and stewards of the

Pikes Peak region constitute a family-like bond.”

John Suthers, the mayor of Colorado Springs, said the Academy is as important to Colorado Springs as the U.S. Military Academy is to New York’s Hudson River Valley.

“One thing we have to do, as the generation that was part of the Academy passes on, is make sure future generations don’t take it for granted,” he said.

Johnson said the Academy’s mission of developing leaders of character is enhanced by the support of the city’s Regional Business Alliance and its Military Affairs Council; the Colorado 30 group; the Regional Defense Forum; private sector research partners and a host of other organizations.

“These groups, and so many more, bolster the contribution we make to our community,” she said. “The Academy could not exist and flourish without their amazing support.”

Some concerns the Academy shares with the city are infrastructure, security, base realignment and closure, encroachment, tourism, land-lease agreements, stormwater runoff mitigation, community support and research and tech-transfer.

A state report released in April studying the military’s value and economic impact said the Defense Department cultivates community interaction, social and economic character, quality of life and mutual dependence between service members and the community.

“The economic impact [of the Academy] is significant,” said Colorado Springs councilman Larry Bagley, citing several Academy events that routinely bring revenue to the city. “Tourism, parents and parents’ weekends, football games and other sports and reunions, bring in people to the downtown, to hotels and motels.”

Councilman According to the Academy’s fiscal year 2014 Larry Bagley

“THESE GROUPS, AND SO MANY MORE, BOLSTER THE CONTRIBUTION WE MAKE TO OUR COMMUNITY. THE ACADEMY COULD NOT EXIST AND FLOURISH WITHOUT THEIR AMAZING SUPPORT.” - LT. GEN. MICHELLE JOHNSON Economic Impact Report, the school brought nearly $950 million in revenue to the city.

Bagley said the Academy’s qualified educators, many whom are former service members, bring potential for technology transfer to the city.

“For example, the Rocky Mountain Institute has an agreement with the Academy for technical transfer based on research programs by cadets and faculty that will potentially help the economy, and the Center for Character and Leadership Development will bring in symposiums,” he said.

Colorado Springs councilman Don Knight said the Academy keeps Colorado Springs on the map.

“For the Colorado Springs economy, we have as I call it kind of two anchor stores: the military and tourism. The Academy Councilman Don Knight supports both,” Knight said. “When people decide where to take vacations, the fact that the Air Force Academy is here, and seeing the chapel and the cadets I think plays very heavily into their [travel] decision.”

Knight said as the City Council makes executive decisions to determine the health of the community, communication with the Academy cannot be underestimated.

“Those areas that impact the Academy are where we need to improve communications between the 10th Air Base Wing, the Academy staff itself and the council, so that when one is planning something, we can address concerns and impacts,” he said.

Academy officials regularly meet with City Council members to discuss stormwater deterioration occurring east of I-25, flight operations and the bond between the Academy and the Regional Business Alliance, Knight said.

“I think everybody in city government is 100-percent behind the Academy,” he said. “In its effort to be good neighbors, I think the Academy has gone well above.”

Bagley noted the Academy’s longstanding support of city cultural, athletic and volunteer events, and its rallying around the community during the 2012 Waldo Canyon fire and the 2013 Black Forest fires, as proof that the city and Academy are linked.

“They feed the homeless and have been at the Marian House,” Bagley said. “This is positive visibility of the cadets in the community. When the Class of 2016 arrived, the Waldo Canyon fire

was in full force, and there were potential delays getting cadets to the base. Hotels in town had been evacuated. [Community] volunteers and the Peterson Air Force Base commander offered housing for incoming students and their families. The support was amazing.”

Andy Merritt, the Colorado Springs Business Alliances’ chief defense industry officer, said the positive influence service Andy Merrit, Regional members and their families have on shaping Business Alliance the Colorado Springs community may not be immediately recognized.

“The Academy is a leadership center of excellence and the community wants to live up to the standards the Academy sets for itself — of being a world-class institution,” he said. “Through the life cycle of the Academy mission, graduates come back and relocate and pass through here on their assignments. Add to that, the men and women who work at the Academy, live in the community and educate their children in our school districts.

Jim Knowlton, the Academy’s athletic director, said the positive impact of the Academy’s Athletic Department plays a role in the Academy’s continued success.

“Our athletic programs provide a world-class environment to prepare and motivate leaders of character through athletic training, testing and competition,” he said. “The life lessons cadets learn on the ‘field of friendly strife’ prepare them to be better officers. The citizens of Colorado Springs have made the fighting Falcons their team and I am truly honored and amazed at the continual support our cadet athletes receive.”

Knowlton said the city and the Academy’s relationship leads to ‘win-win’ situation.

“We’re an important part of the commuJim Knowlton, USAFA nity,” he said. “We want the community to Athletic Director meet all cadets, not just our cadet athletes, because they are very special young men and women. They are part of this great community and they know how much the city supports their efforts on the field and in the classroom.

“It’s a two-way street and we’ve got to do our part,” Knowlton said.

“We know we need to engage the community because it wants to be part of this special institution that’s right in their backyard. Mayor Suthers’ efforts during Armed Forces Appreciation Month w ere a giant step in mobilizing the city leaders on behalf of the Academy. The city’s support helps us connect and make the Academy a special place not only for Airmen and cadets, but also for the community.”

Johnson said Colorado Springs is the most supportive military community she or any Airmen could wish to be a part of.

“Colorado Springs is one of the most military friendly communities I’ve been a part of in my 35 years of military service,” she said. “As an Academy graduate, former instructor, a parent of District 20 students, and now as the superintendent, I am grateful for the relationships and wonderful support from the Colorado Springs community, nonprofits, industry and other institutions of higher education in the region.”

38 · usafa.org

“THE LIFE LESSONS CADETS LEARN ON THE ‘FIELD OF FRIENDLY STRIFE’ PREPARE THEM TO BE BETTER OFFICERS. THE CITIZENS OF COLORADO SPRINGS HAVE MADE THE FIGHTING FALCONS THEIR TEAM AND I AM TRULY HONORED AND AMAZED AT THE CONTINUAL SUPPORT OUR CADET ATHLETES RECEIVE.” - JIM KNOWLTON

Two Cadet Perspectives CADET FIRST CLASS JARED KOCH, USAFA CLASS OF 2016, LAKE IN THE HILLS, ILLINOIS

CADET SECOND CLASS SAMANTHA MOODY, USAFA CLASS OF 2017, FLEMING ISLAND, FLORIDA

“Colorado Springs is a great community and I love it out here. I am an outdoorsman, and there is no better place for that than Colorado.

I go hunting here almost every weekend. I just signed up to take part in a Ducks Unlimited-sponsored club event, and I’m looking forward to that. “I grew up in a small suburb of Chicago, and although Great Lakes Navy Station was there, knowledge about the military is scarce.

Here in the Springs and the Pikes Peak region, in contrast, people are very familiar with and supportive of the military. They put us on a pedestal.

“Each cadet squadron has a representative of the CSL (Cadet Service and Leadership) program. Every week they advise cadets in the squadron about community service activities, and people who want to take part in any given project can sign up. I have had some great experiences interacting with the community. When I was on the Academy wrestling team, we went out to local elementary schools to talk about wrestling and show the kids a few basic moves. I also made some trips around the region as part of trail maintenance projects. That was a very good experience and gave me a chance to meet and work with local residents.

“I have always found that my contacts with local community members are positive, whether it’s just chatting with someone in casual conversation or as part of the community service I’ve taken part in. You’ll be finishing a meal in a restaurant and the server comes over and says ‘That guy who just left paid your bill.’ That is humbling. My girlfriend is a student at UCCS (University of Colorado-Colorado Springs), so I know that not all students are held in the high regard that cadets seem to be.

“My sponsor family, which is not a military family, has been fantastic to me. My sponsors are providing a home away from home and have become a second family for me. Without them, my Academy experience just would not be what it has been.

“But the bottom line is that Colorado Springs is a great community which is very supportive of the military in general and of the Academy in particular. I’d love to come back and get stationed here during my Air Force career.”

“It’s really cool to be a cadet here in Colorado Springs. I didn’t know what to expect, but on my first trip out here, local people treated us like family. Everyone recognized that we were cadets — offering us food, thanking us and giving us hugs because it was freshman year.

It was right after Parents’ Weekend, the first time we really got to leave the Academy grounds, that I noticed it’s not like ‘them and us.’

They seem to really look up to us. I feel valued, and I feel I have a responsibility to the community. Lots of people outside the community don’t seem to know much about the Academy, but in Colorado Springs they do.

“I go to Colorado Springs every weekend. My twin brother moved out here and attends UCCS. Recently we were at church in town and the pastor was hosting a potluck. He saw some freshmen cadets and invited them to join in the meal and stay around as long as they wanted.

“USAFA is a team, and we are a team with the Springs. We have the locals’ back, and if anything happens to us, they would have our backs, too. It’s like a big family.”

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 39

Set sail in good company

Hit play on your dream vacation. usafa.org/Membership/Travel

40 · usafa.org

We are the Air Force Association—the military support organization for the Air Force. When you become a member of AFA, you get connected to 95,000 members of the Air Force community.

Join today and tap into AFA’s resources: • Air Force Magazine and the Daily Report • Professional development opportunities at our conferences and expositions • Discounts on products and services • Plus a lifetime investment for you and your family.

afa.org/join

trueblue B

U

T H E

A S S O C I A T I O N

S

I

N

O F

E

S

S

G R A D U A T E S

Building a Strong Community Together

PREMIUM

The AOG thanks our True Blue Business Sponsors Learn more at www.usafa.org/TrueBlueBusiness

PLUS

Chapel Hills – Colorado Springs

Email marketing@aogusafa.org to make your business a True Blue Business.

42 · usafa.org

Hit play on your dream vacation. usafa.org/Membership/Travel

44 · usafa.org

MAY the FORCE

BE with YOU BERBERIAN ’89 JOURNEYS INTO STAR WARS DROID UNIVERSE

by Paul Henry ’67

You’ve likely been in a galaxy far, far away if you haven’t heard about the Dec. 18 release of the Disney-distributed episode seven of the Star Wars films, “The Force Awakens.”

As the anticipation grows for Star Wars fans, movie trailers from Lucasfilm Limited make it clear there will be roles and cameos for actors from the original Star Wars series.

But there’s a new character as well – BB-8, a personable ball-shaped droid that replaces the venerable R2D2 in the new film.

The man at the head of Sphero — the Boulder, Colorado-based company that developed BB-8 as the film prototype and as a wildly popular high-tech toy — is CEO Paul Berberian ’89.

His story begins long before the huge success of Sphero’s app-enabled droid.

And if it’s true, as the saying goes, that luck is the intersection of preparation and opportunity, then Berberian has made more than his share of “luck” happen across a long career as an entrepreneur, venture capitalist, founder of companies and mentor to start-ups in a wide range of tech industries.

A management major and distinguished graduate of the Academy, the California native started out as a cost analyst for the then-top-secret MILSTAR/MILSATCOM program at Los Angeles Air Force Base. u

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 45 © & ™ Lucasfilm Ltd.

Paul Berberian ’89, CEO of Sphero, holds the company’s latest creation, a toy modeled after the new “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” droid BB-8.

As a mentor, one of the most satisfying things is sitting down with a young entrepreneur and they tell you how they solved a particularly hard challenge. It’s always great to see what these young folks will come up with,” he says. “I hope I’ve given back in different ways, creating jobs and helping the local community out here.

“I spent a good part of my initial career waiting for my clearance” Paul recalls. “But starting out in the Air Force and being at the program office taught me about larger scale operations, sophisticated accounting systems, scheduling and program management. It was great background.”

Although thinking seriously about pursuing an Olmsted Scholarship as part of his active duty service, Berberian took advantage of what turned out to be a narrow two-week window in which Academy grads in his career field, with three years in uniform, could apply for release from active duty as part of a post First Gulf War reduction in force.

A newly minted civilian who “still had the cadet posture and the cadet haircut,” Berberian planned to go abroad and pursue a master’s degree in business administration as an entre to the business world. His father, a developer and operator of several small businesses, suggested instead buying into a venerable but flagging nametag manufacturing business in partnership with his cousin. The idea appealed to Berberian, who shelved the MBA plan to begin his first real sortie as a businessman.

“We made plastic badges — ‘Hello My Name is Paul. Welcome to King Soopers.’ The company had all this old equipment. We worked really hard and turned it around. Ultimately, it was not enough excitement for me since I was really into technology. I ended up selling my share to my cousin.”

Between 1993 and 2009, Berberian co-founded, developed and led some six companies. He was CEO and co-founder (with Joel Daly ’90) of Link VTC, a remote conferencing business for highend corporate customers. Berberian and Daly also brought Art Zeile ’86 and Jim Lejeal ’88 to the Link VTC team.

“The four of us were running the business. We wanted to grow, and instead of moving across town Los Angeles, we moved across country to BB-8 (left), Ollie (center) and Sphero are three of the app-enabled droids that have helped the Sphero company become a leader in the high-tech toy market.

Boulder. A year later, we sold the business. It was our first test of success at being entrepreneurs.”

In 1997, Berberian co-founded (with Lejeal) Raindance Communications, a voice and web conferencing company. Berberian served as CEO and a member of the board of directors. The cofounders took the company public in 2000 and sold it in 2006.

Berberian founded Market Force Information (a customer experience, mystery shopping and market research firm) in 2005. In 2007, he started a novelty toy company “that did not do very well” and he joined a solar panel company in 2009.

“It was a tough time to raise money for clean tech, so we put that one into ‘hibernation.’ It was great technology,” he says.

Too often in real life, such success is not all “goodness and light,” and so it was with Berberian.

“In 2003, I was in a really bad car accident with my family in Hawaii. It was horrific. We were there on a two-week vacation, but we stayed in Hawaii for three months before we could come home.”

It was 2005 before he felt well enough to resume his business development career, and it was 2006 before his wife was fully recovered. Agreeing

© & ™ Lucasfilm Ltd.

Berberian ’89 stands in front of an office of Sphero employees. Berberian has been the CEO of the company since 2010.

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 47

When you are young you can take chances, like you can start a business,” he says. “Embrace this moment in your life. You have the energy; you have the intellect. If you fail, where are you going to end up? At zero?

That’s where you are now!

between them that “life is too short,” the couple took their daughter out of school and spent a relaxing six months traveling around the world.

So where does the magic of the Sphero company experience come in? Having set aside his solar company in 2009, Berberian found he had greater availability to engage in mentoring — a pursuit he had frequently enjoyed between 2007 and 2010.

As part of Boulder’s Techstars start-up accelerator program, “Seasoned business people help, guide and mentor start-up tech companies,” Berberian explains.

For each Techstars session “10 companies come in for 13 weeks. After the 13 weeks, they would try to raise money, bring in investors, conduct demonstrations and so on.”

“One of the companies in the 2010 program was Sphero, and its two founders (Ian Bernstein and Adam Wilson) asked me to be their CEO. The day they finished the program, they made me CEO. Then we conducted multiple rounds of financing, leading to achieve the success we’ve had today. It’s now been five going on six years.”

Not surprisingly, Berberian’s Academy and military experiences played a role in his career.

“My cadet experience was hugely, hugely foundational to my work and my career. It set up a discipline that I probably would not have developed at a normal university. So much of my work ethic, so much of my belief in myself and my belief in others, really came from my experience at the Academy, and a lot of my leadership skills I attribute to the time I was there,” he says.

Berberian says his background helped him build an effective team of employees who contributed to the overall success of the company.

“One thing the military taught me is that your job can change every week, and it may not be as secure as you would like, and you have to deal with the flexibility of business or the nuances of operating in a dynamic industry,” he says. “But you keep the team focused, even though the path may not be a straight line. You have to be out front.”

48 · usafa.org

Berberian’s chief operating officer, Jim Booth, is West Point class of ’90, and his chief financial officer, Jim Lejeal, is an ’88 Academy grad.

“We can have an hour conversation in 37 seconds, and you totally connect. It’s very efficient — OK. Done.

Let’s go,” he explains.

Now what you’ve all been waiting for: the emergence of the BB-8 droid (crescendo of John Williams’ Star Wars overture in the background).

“We found out Disney planned to do an accelerator program run by Techstars in 2014. We were no longer two guys in a garage, and were a pretty established business with $20 million in sales and had raised over $30 million,” Berberian says.

Access to executives at Disney was unprecedented, but Berberian asked if Sphero could be considered for the program.

“They (Techstars) made an accommodation for us, and Disney CEO Bob Iger was a mentor,” he says.

“On the second day of the program, he shows us a picture of the set from the new Star Wars movie on his phone. ‘See that little guy there? He’s the new droid who’s going to replace R2D2. He’s called BB-8 and he looks a lot like the robot ball you are currently selling in the market now. Can you make one that looks like this?’ We said, ‘Hell yes, we can make one that looks like that!’”

Berberian says droid production took off from there.

“We just can’t make them fast enough.”

For a number of years, Berberian has returned to the Academy at the beginning of fall term to speak to management majors. What kind of advice does he give the cadets?

He projects a slide with a big zero on it and asks the cadets what it is. Few hazard a guess.

“Everyone here is a zero,” he tells them. “Embrace your inner zero! You start at nothing; you have nothing to lose.”

Berberian tells the cadets that people become more risk averse as they get older, so it’s easier to try new things early in life.

There are parallels galore between Star Wars and the Air Force Academy.

Coincidence?

We don’t think so.

“When you are young you can take chances, like you can start a business,” he says. “Embrace this moment in your life. You have the energy; you have the intellect. If you fail, where are you going to end up?

At zero? That’s where you are now!”

Berberian suggests that people who have the most success inside or outside the service are the ones who push the boundaries and take chances.

As for his inner motivations, Berberian looks to his father as his exemplar.

“He was a wonderful, loving, generous man. He wasn’t the leader of large organizations, but he was the leader of the extended family. He was a great caregiver to everyone … he was always there to help out,” Berberian recalls.

Berberian says his father used to quote an old Armenian saying — “First climb to the top of the mountain, then reach down and pull up everyone else.”

“Why be successful in your career?” Berberian asks.

“It’s a lot easier to help reaching down than pushing up from the bottom. You can do so much more good when you are at a position of comfort and at a position where you can provide real assistance.”

Has he followed his father’s example?

“As a mentor, one of the most satisfying things is sitting down with a young entrepreneur and they tell you how they solved a particularly hard challenge. It’s always great to see what these young folks will come up with,” he says. “I hope I’ve given back in different ways, creating jobs and helping the local community out here.”

Today, Berberian appreciates his success, yet takes nothing for granted.

“This (Sphero) is company number seven. Hopefully, the seventh one is the charm,” he says.

From the vantage point of people being entertained and educated by Sphero’s tech-savvy toys, it most definitely is the charm! And may the force be with you, to coin a phrase.

STAR WARS AIR FORCE ACADEMY The Force Air Force The Millennium Falcon AF Academy Falcons Lightsaber Cadet Saber Death Star CCLD North Star tower The Dark Side The fight against ISIS Skywalkers Skydivers Force Lightning Lightning Bolts Jedi Code Honor Code Mos Eisley Cantina Hap’s Place Check out our Facebook page and contribute your own Star Wars and AF Academy comparisons.

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 49

“I feel indebted to the Academy for all of the opportunities I was given as a cadet, and later as a graduate.”

– Don ’78 and Fara Avery Sabre Society Donors

Sabre Society level gifts support essential cadet and graduate programs and services like character development, chapter programs, Academy Assembly, international immersion programs, cadet clubs and intramurals, undergraduate research, and many others. Gifts to the Air Force Academy Fund help support the Academy in developing outstanding leaders who will shape our military and nation for years to come.

Show your support by giving today at giveafaf.org

THE SABRE SOCIETY Recognizes donors who contribute $1,000 or more annually to the Air Force Academy Fund

www.giveafaf.org

IT’S A WAR ACADEMY GRADS TAKE AIM AT ERADICATING ISIS THREAT

Nolan Peterson, ’04

52 · usafa.org

ROLL CALL

U.S. ARMED FORCES, Southwest Asia — It’s dinnertime at the DFAC (the military acronym for chow hall) at this remote desert base somewhere in the Persian Gulf region. As they eat, a group of four U.S. Air Force A-10 pilots talk about their war against Daesh, which is what the U.S. military and its coalition partners call ISIS. Even with their close-cropped hair and tan flight suits, there’s nothing outwardly remarkable about the pilots. They might pass for any other Americans in their late 20s and early 30s. They smile a lot as they talk and casually tease each other based on inside jokes accumulated after living and working together 24/7 for about five months. Most have families and children back home. They have the normal complaints for deployed troops, including restrictions on mustache size, which is a major topic of conversation. Dinner at a U.S. military chow hall in 1944 probably wouldn’t have been very different from this one. u

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 53

WE’RE LIKE PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES AT THE END OF A SEASON,” A PILOT SAID. “WE’RE FIGHTING A LEGIT WAR HERE, AND IT’S ACTIVE.

As the pilots talk, they use all the familiar lingo and clichéd

expressions common to military aviation. But among the typical lexicon there’s another word they use a lot, which seems to stand out from the rest: “hunting.”

“I’m doing stuff here that I never thought I’d get to do,” said one pilot, an Air Force major. “We’re hunting. And there are very few sorties when you’re not shooting.”

Many U.S. military pilots and other personnel have chosen not to reveal their identities due to security concerns. Mainly, they’re concerned about domestic ISIS sleeper cells retaliating against their families back in the U.S. — a threat they consider deadly serious.

The pilots say their mindset flying against ISIS is different from the one they had in Afghanistan, a theater in which most of these pilots also have flown in combat. In Afghanistan, they say, they had a defensive mindset; the priority was to defend U.S. troops on the ground with close air support.

In the war on Daesh over Iraq and Syria, however, they describe their mindset as being on offense. In addition to close air support and bombing missions, they also fly air interdiction missions in which they patrol for targets of opportunity — essentially hunting for ISIS militants to kill. And they kill a lot. Sometimes one pilot will kill dozens of ISIS fighters in one sortie.

Each pilot flies every one to three days, racking up about 100 combat hours a month. Due to the large airspace they patrol, the sorties are long, sometimes lasting about eight hours. The pilots prepare their bodies to endure the physical demands of long missions in a single-seat attack aircraft with massages and special workout programs.

54 · usafa.org

“We’re like professional athletes at the end of a season,” a pilot said. “We’re fighting a legit war here, and it’s active.”

Overall, Operation Inherent Resolve (the U.S.-led combined joint task force in Iraq and Syria) is killing about 1,000 ISIS fighters a month. The death toll roughly matches the number of new recruits ISIS is able to field each month, effectively capping its manpower strength at about 30,000 to 40,000 fighters.

“This is a war, just based on the magnitude of the people we’re killing.” said Col. Michael Koscheski ’92, commander of the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing (the iconic “Red Tails” from World War II in which the Tuskegee Airmen flew) in an interview from an undisclosed deployed location.

“We’re killing a lot of them — I mean a lot,” Koscheski added. “The body count is a factor. It’s not the only factor, but it’s a factor. It will be interesting to see if Daesh can maintain its current attrition rate.”

Although Operation Inherent Resolve comprises more than 60 countries, only 12 are actively conducting airstrikes.

According to Department of Defense data released Sept. 8, 2015, the coalition has conducted 6,700 airstrikes and flown an estimated 53,278 total sorties.

U.S. and coalition commanders explain their overall objective in Operation Inherent Resolve as twofold — both to destroy ISIS and to train and equip the Iraqi Security Forces, Kurdish Peshmerga and Free Syrian Army to take back territory under ISIS control and to eventually shoulder the fight on their own.

U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Joshua Strang

“Success is the implosion of Daesh from within,” Koscheski said. “Over time it will be like a cancer; it will eat itself from the inside out. But the Iraqis have to do this for themselves.

“That’s the end goal. Without Iraqi ground troops to take back ground, the effectiveness of air power is limited.”

“We are here to defeat Daesh,” Air Force Col. Clarence Lukes, Jr. ’92, commander of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing, said in an interview. “But this has to have an Iraqi solution.”

Koscheski estimated that U.S. involvement in the war on ISIS will be a long-term endeavor, lasting for perhaps another five to seven years.

“Americans want a clean end and a ticker tape parade, and that’s not going to happen here,” Koscheski said. “But it’s by no means hopeless.”

After nearly a year, the war against ISIS is at a stalemate. ISIS is no longer able to mass personnel or equipment to take new ground — air power alone has stopped its advance. But the ability of air power to win the war against ISIS has hit its limit. It will now take an effective ground force to retake territory conquered by ISIS and to achieve ultimate victory.

“There’s no clear winner at this point,” Lukes said. “There are still areas that are highly contested.”

“It’s going to take a while to take back territory because we don’t have boots on the ground to fight,” a senior coalition Air Force officer said, speaking on condition of anonymity due to security concerns and restrictions on media communication.

“It’s up to the Iraqis to take the initiative,” he added.

One of the key victories for coalition air power was the battle for Kobani, Syria, in which U.S. warplanes — principally B-1 supersonic bombers — pummeled ISIS fighters with heavy bombing. Unlike other urban centers in the Iraq-Syria battle space, civilians had evacuated Kobani, allowing U.S. warplanes more latitude to inflict heavy damage. The resulting airstrikes were catastrophic for ISIS fighters.

“Air power saved Kobani,” Koscheski said. “But we leveled it to save it. It was annihilated.”

“We killed thousands,” he added. “It was like human fodder.”

ISIS no longer has freedom of movement and has changed its tactics to adapt to the threat of U.S. and coalition air power.

Gone are the days of brazen ISIS fighters clad in all black, parading triumphantly through captured villages in Toyota Hiluxes while trailing their signature black flags.

“If they’re doing that now, they’re dying,” Koscheski said.

“The Daesh that you see in a lot of news clips doesn’t exist any more. Now they’re cowering and running between buildings.”

There is a humble lethality in the way the A-10 pilots talk about killing. They chuckle and eat ice cream for dessert as they tell stories about panic-stricken ISIS fighters accidentally running toward the distinctive sound of the A-10’s 30-mm Gatling cannons, or of an ISIS fighter who did a swan dive to his death off a cliff while trying to escape an A-10 attack.

“When I saw that, I just radioed: ‘He’s dead,’” one pilot, an Air Force major, dryly explained.

“They say they love death more than we love life,” said another pilot, a captain. “But they always flee when we attack. I’ve never seen one not try to get away.”

The pilots’ eyes seem to focus on yours a half-beat longer than normal as they matter-of-factly describe strafing an enemy checkpoint, or killing ISIS fighters one by one as they attempt to escape doomed tanks and armored personnel carriers. Sometimes a pilot will lean back in his chair with eyes open wide, slowly shaking his head as he describes the carnage he has inflicted on the enemy.

But there is no remorse, not even the hint of it.

“I’ve never had a bad dream or lost one ounce of sleep,” said one pilot, an Air Force major. “We face an evil enemy, and we fight them honorably.”

The pilots say they enjoy their work, but the real pleasure comes from executing a mission with precision and no mistakes.

“It’s personal, but in a professional way,” one pilot explained.

“We have a job to do. But ISIS is pure evil, and we have no problem killing them.”

And there is no questioning the justice of the war. U.S. pilots and their coalition partners say they are fighting in Iraq and Syria Checkpoints · December 2015 · 55

ROLL CALL

to prevent the “cancer” of ISIS from spreading.

“We see the videos,” an A-10 pilot said, speaking about the videos released online of ISIS militants beheading and immolating prisoners. “And that takes away any hesitation to kill. The only thing that gives me pause is what happens if I have to eject.”

“

BUT THE IRAQIS HAVE TO DO THIS FOR THEMSELVES,” HE SAID.“THAT’S THE END GOAL. WITHOUT IRAQI GROUND TROOPS TO TAKE BACK GROUND, THE EFFECTIVENESS OF AIR POWER IS LIMITED.

”

The fate of a downed pilot over ISIS territory is one of the coalition’s greatest concerns. U.S. pilots report the current surface-to-air threat over Iraq and Syria is markedly higher than over Afghanistan. A-10 pilots say AA (anti-aircraft) fire is prevalent, with tracers sometimes coming close enough to be visible in daytime. And according to Koscheski, there also is a theater-wide threat of MANPADS (ManPortable Air-Defense Systems, or shoulder-fired surface-to-air missiles). No A-10s have yet suffered battle damage, although an Air Force F-16 came back from one mission with bullet holes, Koscheski said.

“There’s a real threat here, unlike in Afghanistan,” an A-10 pilot said. “I’ve had a few close calls. Do we respect the threat? Yes. Are we afraid of it? No.”

56 · usafa.org

At an undisclosed base in the region, U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 tilt rotor aircraft are deployed to support a Marine TRAP (Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel) unit. The MV-22 crews are on alert 24 hours a day to recover downed pilots and to respond to other crises, including an attack on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad.

“Those links between Benghazi are here,” said Marine 1st Lt. Matt Gregory. “But the likelihood of an event like that is very small.” So far the Marine TRAP unit has responded to retrieve downed remotely piloted aircraft (the military’s term for drones) but has not yet had to recover a pilot. “That’s our Super Bowl,” said Marine Capt. Steven Ritter, an MV-22 pilot.

The fate of 26-year-old Jordanian F-16 pilot Lt. Muath al-Kaseasbeh, whom ISIS burned alive and released a video of his execution online, has highlighted the life-or-death stakes for recovering downed U.S. and coalition airmen before they fall into enemy hands.

“It was a game-changer,” Koscheski said, speaking about the immolation video. “In Vietnam and in past wars, captured pilots could expect to be hurt or even tortured. But they weren’t burned alive in a cage. There’s no plan B here. You either save the guy or he goes down swinging.”

THEY WANT YOU! Service Academy Career Conference Over 350 companies recruit exclusively for service academy graduates at four events each year!

Visit

www.sacc-jobfair.com

For the company roster, conference schedule, and to register.

Questions?

Email marketing@aogusafa.org

ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY

S ERVING THE L ONG BLUE LINE

ROLL CALL

First Graduate Wounded in Combat

Medical detour cements graduate’s place in Academy history

By Steven A. Simon ‘77

2nd Lt. Thomas Hutchison receives the Purple Heart from Brig. Gen. Henry S. Murphey, Fitzsimons Army Hospital commander, in Denver.

60 · usafa.org

Thomas Hutchison, Class of ’62, the first Air Force Academy graduate to be wounded in combat. He also was the first grad to receive the Bronze Star and the first recipient of the Purple Heart.

M

ost people associated with the Academy know that 1st Lt. Valmore Bourque, Class of 1960, was the first graduate killed in combat. 1st Lt. (promoted to Captain posthumously) Bourque died on 24 October 1964 when his C-123B aircraft was struck by enemy ground fire and crashed when the aircraft inadvertently crossed the border into Cambodia during an aerial resupply mission.

Fewer people know the identity of the first Academy graduate wounded in combat. According to the Sept. 13, 1963, issue of the Falconews (the Academy newspaper), that distinction goes to Thomas Hutchison, Class of 1962.

Had things gone according to plan, 1st Lt. Hutchison would have joined his classmates in pilot training upon graduation. His journey took a fateful detour late in his senior year when he passed out under unexplained circumstances. That incident made him ineligible to attend pilot training for at least a year. To fill that year, he accepted an assignment to the 1st Air Commando Group, Hurlburt Field, Florida.

From the Falconews’ front-page story: “In April 1963, he was sent to South Vietnam. An accomplished parachutist, he became a member of the 1st Air Commando Wing Combat Control Team and was assigned duty as Air Force liaison officer to a U.S. Army Special Forces Team.

“On May 16, Lieutenant Hutchison along with four Special Forces troops and 35 Vietnamese mountain tribesmen were escorting 300 refugees to safety. The group was ambushed by rebel troops. During the skirmish, he was hit by hostile fire which grazed the bridge of his nose and seared his left eye and cheek.”

Despite his wounds, Lieutenant Hutchison led the counterattack, which defeated the ambush and killed 15 Viet Cong guerillas. The incident took place in mountainous jungle terrain about 100 miles northwest of Saigon in enemy-controlled territory.

After the battle, Hutchison was airlifted to the hospital at Nha Trang, South Vietnam, and finally to Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington, D.C., with interim stops in the Philippines and California.

Reminiscing about the event, Hutchison said, “... the most important Academy influence that I learned was perseverance, never give up.”

Maj. Gen. (Retired) Donald W. Shepperd, Class of 1962, commented recently about Hutchison, saying, “We all knew Tom was a rock. We didn’t know how soon he would have to show it, but none of us were surprised.”

Like Hutchison himself, Shepperd tied his classmate’s performance under pressure back to their Academy days: “Tom Hutchison is what USAFA is about: smarts, character, loyalty, toughness, AND he displayed all of that when it counted most. In combat, Tom Hutchison showed he was a fierce warrior.”

While recuperating from his injuries, 1st Lt. Hutchison visited the Academy in December 1963, where he shared stories of his cadet days, as well as his time in Vietnam.

The front page of the Dec. 27, 1963, Falconews featured a photo of 1st Lt. Hutchison receiving the Purple Heart at Fitzsimons Army Hospital in Denver. The presentation was made by Brig. Gen. Henry S. Murphey, hospital com-

“Despite his wounds, Lieutenant Hutchison led the counter attack, which defeated the ambush and killed fifteen Viet Cong guerillas.”

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 61

Left to right; Col. Harry P. Verbeek, DM AFB base commander, Hutchison’s son, Steven, his wife Lisette, and 1st Lt. Thomas Hutchison, retired. mander. In addition to being the first Air Force Academy graduate wounded in combat, 1st Lt. Hutchison also has the distinction of being the first Academy graduate to receive the Purple Heart.

Unable to attend pilot training due to the loss of an eye, 1st Lt. Hutchison accepted a medical retirement from the Air Force on 6 January 1964.

The Military Spouse J.D. Network (MSJDN) was founded in 2011 by two military spouse attorneys fed up with the barriers they faced trying to balance the military lifestyle with their legal careers.

MSJDN was formed to advocate for licensing accommodations for military spouse attorneys in each jurisdiction — essentially advocating for temporary bar admission due to their service member’s orders. So far, MSJDN has been successful in obtaining military spouse law licensure accommodations in 15 states and one territory.

“Colorado was the ninth state to adopt a military spouse licensure rule (Supreme Court Rule 204.4) and is the only reason why I am able to actively practice law in southern Colorado,” says Katherine Goyette. “As an active member of MSJDN, I was able to connect with other military spouse attorneys in the state after PCS-ing to Fort Carson. Though it is always uncertain where the Army will take my family, I am reassured that my ability to practice law and maintain marketability in the legal field will always be supported by the efforts of MSJDN.” Members of the Network represent active duty, guard, reserve, veteran and retired military families of all branches of the uniformed services.

Spouses of USAFA graduates who have a law degree are more than welcome to join the network of military spouses found nationwide and OCONUS at www.msjdn.org.

62 · usafa.org

At about the same time, 1st Lt. Hutchison was awarded the Bronze Star, the first Academy graduate to earn that honor. The presentation took place at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, and was officiated by Col. Harry Verbeek, base commander.

The citation adds important details and context to the above narrative: “Despite a head wound and the loss of his left eye suffered in the counterattack, Lieutenant Hutchison stoically endured great physical pain during this subsequent twenty-six-hour cross-country evacuation, offering words of encouragement and an example of physical courage that were a constant source of inspiration to those around him.”

Writing in a Class of 1962 compilation, “These Red Tag Bastards: Their Dreams, Their Lives, Their Memories,” published in 2012 by Maj. Gen. (Retired) Donald W. Shepperd, Class of 1962, 1st Lt. Hutchison humbly titled his article about the mission, “I’m No Hero ... I Got Shot.” In that piece, he writes, “I didn’t plan it that way. It happened.”

After being medially retired, Tom Hutchison accepted an engineering position on the technical staff at Hughes Aircraft Company (now Raytheon Missile Systems) in Tucson, Arizona. He also attended the University of Arizona, earning a PhD in aerospace engineering in 1973.

He worked on every tactical missile system that was manufactured by Hughes/Raytheon at that time.

“It was rewarding to be a part of the pioneering effort that converted ‘dumb’ bombs into the smart weapons of today’s armed forces,” he said of his work. He carried out analytical studies on the early AMRAAM, various MAVERICK variants, TOW missile system, the U.S. Navy’s AIM-54 Phoenix, and the Tomahawk system. He retired in 2009 from Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.

Again crediting the Academy for its outsized role in his success, he said, “It was all a matter of focus and that is what I learned and remembered from four years at the ‘zoo.’”

While predating the first Academy combat casualty by more than a year, 1st Lt. Tom Hutchison’s ambush injuries were a harbinger of the horrific events to befall Academy graduates in Southeast Asia, where 151 would be killed and 33 would become POWs. 1st Lt. Hutchison’s courage and his resolve, however, match those of any Academy graduate.

Q: A:

Force Academy, a federally-funded institution, have an impact on cadets and graduates?

Although the government supplies the Academy with its basic level of funding, the Academy requires your sustained private support to attract the best minds and provide an exceptional educational experience. Charitable contributions from donors like you are not intended to replace the government’s responsibility, but are used to create a “margin of excellence” that sets the Academy apart as character development.

Each year, you - our graduates, friends and parents - generously give to the Air Force Academy Fund. Your support allows the Academy to provide extraordinary cadet experiences and exceptional graduate services.

Make a gift today to join thousands of other donors who have collectively made a difference.

THE SABRE SOCIETY Recognizes donors who contribute $1,000 or more annually to the Air Force Academy Fund

www.giveafaf.org

AFAF RECEIVES ACADEMY’S

Distinguished SERVICE AWARD

by Ray Bowden U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs wo U.S. Air Force Academy Foundation officials accepted the Academy’s Distinguished Service Award from the institution’s superintendent here Sept. 4.

Foundation Chairman Bill Hybl accepted the award on behalf of the foundation from Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Michelle Johnson ’81 during a morning reception at the Falcon Club, and Foundation President Dave Palenchar ’70 accepted the award during the Parents’ Weekend Parade at Stillman Parade Field.

Specifically, the Academy nominated the AFAF for the award for its outstanding service and support to the educational institution, which includes garnering financial support for the Dean’s Summer Research Program for cadets in Prague and Hong Kong, and construction of Falcon Stadium, Eisenhower Golf Course, Farish Memorial Recreation Area and the Barry Goldwater Visitor Center, according to award documents.

“The AFAF was established in 1954 by citizens of the Colorado Springs community specifically to demonstrate our state’s support of the Air Force Academy by ensuring necessary funds would be available for its success,” Hybl said. “More than 60 years later, we are proud to see the Academy thrive, and to support it through capital programs and the current George Mason Scholarship Program. On behalf of our 120 members, we are honored to receive the Distinguished Service Award and look forward to (our) continued support of the Academy.”

The Academy established the Distinguished Service Award in 1999.

“Thank you for all you have done and continue to do for our Academy, our cadets and our alumni,” Johnson said. “The AFAF’s dedication to the Academy’s mission and generosity has left a lasting impact on this institution and on all who have, and will, pass through it.”

64 · usafa.org

Lt. Gen. Michelle D. Johnson ’81, the superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy, stands with Dave Palenchar ’70, the president of the U.S. Air Force Air Force Academy Foundation, at Stillman Parade Field Sept. 4, 2015. Johnson presented Palenchar with the Academy’s Distinguished Service Award during the Parents’ Weekend parade. (U.S. Air Force photo/Liz Copan)

THE HANGAR

CONNECTING THE LONG BLUE LINE CONFERENCE OFFERS HELPFUL STRATEGIES FOR AOG CHAPTER PRESIDENTS Written by Nathan Jones

T

he bus rolled up to Doolittle Hall on an October morning carrying Air Force Academy graduates from every corner of the United States. Heavy rain fell throughout the campus, but it wasn’t enough to keep the 33 visiting Association of Graduates chapter members from checking in at the 2015 AOG Chapter Presidents Conference.

The conference, held in Colorado Springs Oct. 22-23, allowed participants to collaborate with one another, hear from senior Academy leadership about modern campus life, and find out where the AOG is headed over the next few years.

AOG President and CEO William “T” Thompson ’73 emphasized four key areas to focus on in a three-year plan, which included sustaining and growing constituent engagement, strengthening AOG member services, continuing to honor Academy history and heritage, and improving the nonprofit’s financial strength.

“I am happy with the direction of the AOG because of the excellent leadership and staff,” said Southwest Ohio (Dayton) Chapter President Kent Shin ’86. “The growth in chapters has been the best part, and with that growth comes new presidents who reach out to new grads and that makes the AOG bigger and stronger.”

66 · usafa.org

In addition to engaging with AOG and Academy leadership about supporting the alumni community, the attendees also were treated to a tour of newer Academy facilities, including the mock village training area in Jacks Valley and the nearly finished Polaris Hall.

“I like that [Polaris Hall] is a home to the honor system and a collaborative environment where cadets can have private or public meetings,” Air Force Academy Society of North Carolina Chapter President Patrick Yanke ’93 said of the Academy’s newest building. “This will be a better and more professional place to work.”

By the time everyone got back on the bus Friday afternoon, it was clear that the rain hadn’t dampened anyone’s experience.

“The chapter presidents meeting gets better and better every year,” said Shin, adding that next year’s conference has a lot to live up to.

For Yanke, the conference was a fun, nostalgic trip through his old stomping grounds, but it also left him pleased with the current course of his alma mater.

“I was able to see what has changed on the campus, and get a feel for the future of the institution. I liked what I saw.”

Images from left to right: AOG President and CEO William “T” Thompson ’73 gives a presentation at the 2015 AOG Chapter Presidents Conference.

Abilene Chapter representative Al Dunlap ’73 eats with cadets at Mitchell Hall during the first day of the 2015 AOG Chapter Presidents Conference. The conference was held at Doolittle Hall on the Air Force Academy on Oct. 22-23.

The attendees of the 2015 AOG Chapter Presidents Conference were given a tour of the military operations in urban terrain (MOUT) training facility in Jacks Valley. Conference participants also were given a tour of the Academy’s newest facility, Polaris Hall.

2015 DISTINGUISHED CHAPTERS St. Louis Gateway Baltimore Southwestern Ohio Northern Arizona Granite State Charleston Kansas City Air Force Academy Society of North Carolina Sacramento Twin Cities Alamo Rampart New England Las Vegas North Texas

FREEZE FRAME Doolittle Hall Display

AOG pays homage to Gen. Jimmy Doolittle and the Raiders Doolittle Hall has been home to the Air Force Academy’s Association of Graduates since 1992. The building is named for World War II pilot Gen. Jimmy Doolittle, but until recently there wasn’t a fitting tribute to Doolittle and his Raiders within the building itself. Now, guests of the AOG can learn all about the men behind one of the most iconic air battles of the war.

The new “Doolittle Raiders” exhibit spans a third of the north wall on the second floor of Doolittle Hall. From left to right, visitors can scan a visual timeline of events leading up to the famous Doolittle Raid and the history that followed it.

“We wanted to pay homage not only to Doolittle but also his crew, the Doolittle Raiders,” says graphic designer Eric Costello, who took the lead on designing the wall. “We thought it would be a good idea to highlight their accomplishments in an easy, digestible manner. That’s how we came up with the timeline concept.”

Pieces of the story about the Raiders’ retaliatory attack on Japan are framed in aluminum composite material, held in place by rivets that give the wall a distinct look mimicking the exterior of the B-25s Doolittle and his men flew during the operation. Inside the frames are newspaper clippings and images from the 1940s. Books about Gen. Doolittle and the Raiders also are available in the area for anyone interested in diving deeper into one of the most important military missions of World War II. 68 · usafa.org

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 69

ROLL CALL

FALCON FITNESS Making the cut

Dan Felix ’74

Joint surgery can be a difficult decision. Shoulder, back, hip and knee replacements and surgeries can be very intimidating. The techniques and materials used today are more sophisticated and less invasive than the same procedures of 10 years ago. Sometimes the decision is made for you, as in an accident or injury. Most of the time, however, the offending joint slowly deteriorates, and the time to make the decision sneaks up on you. As long as the surgery is elective, you have options.

Exhaust the Alternatives The bones of the body rarely touch each other. Tissues, fluids and pads separate the bones from each other. The human body places some of the most sensitive nerves on the surfaces of the bones to ensure that any breach is recognized and stopped. You only need to twist a knee or dislocate a shoulder to experience some of the most intense pain the body can create.

There are some time-tested alternatives to prevent or delay surgery.

• Exercise. The skeletal muscles of the body function to move the bones, but they also serve to keep the bones from contacting each other. When muscles are balanced, they can perform that duty even as they open and close a joint. Often a simple, balanced, non-ballistic exercise program will re-establish the muscles’ protective capability, and surgery can be avoided.

This works particularly well for shoulder and hip joints.

• Anti-Inflammatories. The tolerance, in terms of distance, between bones is very small. Any irritation to a joint surface will result in some form of inflammation that includes swelling. That swelling can cause adjacent bone surfaces to continue to impact each other, particularly in the hips and spinal disks, and can perpetuate the inflammation. Prescription and non-prescription anti-inflammatory and cortisone therapies can break the cycle, letting the swelling recede and allowing the tissues to heal.

Don’t Wait Too Long The most common advice given to persons with a joint injury is to hold off on any surgery until you absolutely need it. You might consider just the opposite.

It is better to have the surgical procedure one year too early than one week too late. When a joint begins to falter, the rest of the body begins to accommodate for it. Small but important behaviors change, and the body begins to act in a less-symmetrical way. That shifts pressure and weight to other joints, which can trigger injury in those locations. Your ability to recover from any 70 · usafa.org

joint surgery will depend on the health and conditioning of the rest of your body. Do not diminish the rest of your muscles and joints by waiting too long for surgery.

Prepare for Recovery If you are proceeding with joint surgery, then consider a pre-surgery exercise routine about six weeks in advance of the procedure. The focus of the routine is to maximize the range of movement and stamina throughout the body. The routine is not focused on the injury but on all the other muscles and joints which will be called upon to execute any post-surgery recovery.

Surgery Works If surgery is needed and you’ve done your homework, then you’ve made a good decision.

In most cases, you can fully regain the quality of life that was lacking under the intrusion of an injured joint, and you can return to the sports and activities you love.

Dan Felix has been fitness training for more than 25 years and has multiple certifications, including certified fitness trainer from the International Sports Sciences Association and the American Red Cross Advanced First Aid certification.

Rough tumble and

By Jeff Holmquist Photos by Nathan Jones

Coach Denny Merideth ’73 looks on as his players face off in a drill during practice.

Merideth, a USAFA Rugby player during his four years as a cadet, became the head coach of the Zoomies this fall.

72 · usafa.org

e We call it a warrior sport, because there’s a place for everybody to play,” Merideth explains. “We have small guys, we’ve got huge guys, we’ve got fast guys.

The common theme is that everybody has to have a love of the game, and they have to have their fitness level up so they can play continuously.

T

he final match of the Air Force Academy rugby team’s fall season occurred Nov. 14 on a perfect Saturday afternoon. A handful of stalwart fans dotted the sidelines to cheer on the Zoomies as they cruised to a 113-15 victory over visiting University of New Mexico.

A few miles away at Falcon Stadium, the Falcon football team was finishing off its final home victory of the year in front of thousands of screaming fans.

Don’t expect the Zoomies to show any signs of jealousy over the lopsided show of support. Ruggers in the U.S. are used to performing in obscurity.

“It doesn’t really bother us,” says team captain Ben Burmester ’17, Pender, Nebraska. “We know that rugby is not the most popular sport in America, but interest is growing. Even though we don’t see a lot of fans, we play hard for each other. We take a lot of pride in that. We’re just as fired up for games as if we were playing in front of thousands of fans.”

The long tradition of AFA rugby (also known as Zoomie Rugby Football Club) gives the play-

ers an extra boost of pride and competitiveness on game days, Burmester adds.

“We know what’s come before us,” he notes. “Because of that, we’re playing for more than the average team out there.”

For most U.S. sports fans, rugby remains a bit of a mystery. Common rugby terms such as scrums, tries and knock-ons are not part of most American’s vocabulary.

Television broadcasts of rugby matches are usually relegated to late-night time slots. As a consequence, rugby hasn’t caught on as a popular sport in most U.S. communities.

That’s changing, Burmester says, and the Zoomies hope to ride the growing popularity of rugby to the top of the collegiate sport.

“There’s something in the air with our rugby team,” he says. “Everybody seems to be on the same page, and it feels like we’re about to explode and go places where the Zoomies haven’t been for a while. I think the team is headed in a wonderful direction.” u

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 73

The early days

An intramural sport since 1961, rugby has been played as a club sport at the Air Force Academy since 1968, when then-captain Alan Osur and C2C Angus MacDonald officially established a team. Osur returned in 1977 to organize a women’s team as well.

Since 1980, the Zoomies have competed as a member of the national governing body, USA Rugby, because the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) doesn’t sponsor rugby as a sport.

The Academy team competes in the Western Conference of the highest collegiate division, D1A, along with Colorado State University, the University of Colorado-Boulder, University of Utah, University of New Mexico and University of Wyoming.

The Zoomies also compete in the Varsity Cup, a post-season invitational championship series featuring the top 18 teams in the nation.

Since the inception of the USA Rugby national championship in 1980, Air Force has advanced to the Final Four 13 times, competed

Grigor Kerdikoshvili ’17 pulls several defenders with him during a game against University of ColoradoBoulder on Oct. 24.

The USAFA Zoomies won the match 22-20.

74 · usafa.org

for the national champion title eight times and achieved the national championship three times (1989, 1990 and 2003).

Six Air Force players have gone on to represent the USA on the Men’s National Team, the “Eagles,” — Ben Trautwein ’98, Matt Schmitz ’00, Josh Dean ’04, Mike Hobson ’05, Brian Lemay ’05 and Eric Duechle ’08.

At the end of the 2015 fall season, Air Force is ranked 10th nationally by USA Rugby. Through the winter, the team will be participating in several tournaments and competitions to stay in shape. Over spring break, the Zoomies are planning a trip to New Zealand to compete and learn in a country where rugby is considered the national sport.

The upcoming spring season is a buildup that leads to both the Varsity Cup and the USA Rugby D1A championships which are in April and May in a series of single-elimination rounds. The Zoomies hope to finish among the top squads in the nation.

It’s really like playing backyard football. It’s just fun,” [Agmata ’18] explains. “And it’s a good avenue to release that Type A personality, because everyone is competitive at the Academy.

Head Coach Denny Merideth ’73 talks to his team following a 22-20 win over University of Colorado-Boulder. Merideth led the Zoomies to a 3-2 conference record in his first fall season as head coach.

A new beginning

A new crop of officer leadership came in over the summer with the common goal of recovering the perennial powerhouse prominence the Zoomies commanded from the mid-1980s to mid-1990s and early 2000s. Three of the officers played during those eras under the Academy’s two national championship-winning head coaches, Vern Francis ’71 and Rob Holder USMA ’89. Their first step forward was to grow the coaching staff, which had declined from a record high of nine in 2006 down to one by the spring of 2015.

Through a nationwide appeal for volunteer coaches, the coaching staff grew to six. Veteran military and international-level rugby coach Denny Merideth ’73 was selected as the Zoomies’ head coach for 2015-2016. A former Academy rugby player himself (1969-73), he was one of nearly a dozen coaches interested in taking over the coaching job. Merideth says he’s thrilled to be given the chance to help his alma mater and current Zoomies.

Along with Merideth, additional coaches stepped forward to help with the team, including former U.S. Men’s National Team alumni and international professional players Paul Emerick IV and James Paterson. Coaches Jim Donovan, a retired Special Forces NCO, and Karl Kennedy, a retired Air Force officer, each formerly played for the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force all-star teams, respectively. Donovan, along with coach Jaron Maynard, helped lead the Colorado Grizzlies High School rugby team to a string of consecutive state championships. The all-volunteer coaching staff gives tremendously of their time, as the club budget doesn’t support paid positions.

Officer-in-Charge Col. (select) Gary Helfeldt ’88 notes that the current all-volunteer coaching staff brings the talent and experience that few collegiate teams in the nation are fortunate enough to assemble, even with healthy budgets or varsity-status rugby programs.

“The commitment by past and present all-volunteer coaches for the rugby team is extraordinary, and everyone considers the needs of the team over their own. We can only be as good as the competition we

can face, and with the West Conference consisting of a mere six teams spanning up to 600-mile leg geography, travel costs dominate our financial priorities” Col. Helfeldt explains. “The staff doesn’t normally file for travel expenses but, when we do, all of us use it to help defray the out-of-pocket expenses of our athletes.”

Merideth says that the team’s limited budget doesn’t put a damper on the quality of the coaching that takes place, however. “We’ve got a great coaching staff right now,” Merideth says. “Their enthusiasm for and knowledge of the game is something our guys are picking up on.”

In fact, participation in the men’s rugby program is riding high because of this year’s quality coaching staff, Merideth reports. The Zoomies had 74 cadets on the roster at the end of the fall season, when typically the numbers dwindle to 35-40 by November.

Merideth comments that he’s pleasantly surprised at the success the Zoomies had this fall. With a new team philosophy and new coaching approach, Merideth says he expected progress to be slow. The strong season closer against UNM, preceded by a gripping 31-25 win over Army West Point the week prior, attests to the success of Merideth’s game plan.

“We tried not to be unrealistic about how far we could go and how quickly we could improve,” Merideth says. “We know we have the talent and we know we have the coaching staff. We thought we just needed some time to get it all together.”

The AFA men’s rugby team fields three squads by level of competitiveness (A, B and C) throughout the season to provide athletes with more playing experience, rather than making “cuts” that limit the depth and development of players who come in from varying sports backgrounds. Merideth says he has been impressed with how coachable and passionate his rugby players are this year.

“We’re happy with what we’re seeing,” he says. u

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 75

A new approach

Merideth’s long-term vision for Zoomie rugby is to develop a program that “consistently competes for national championships at the highest level of college rugby.”

To accomplish that goal, Merideth says his coaching staff is looking for cadets who have heart and a winning attitude — the two most important qualities in a successful rugby player. Intensity and physical toughness are important attributes for successful rugby players as well.

“We call it a warrior sport, because there’s a place for everybody to play,” Merideth explains. “We have small guys, we’ve got huge guys, we’ve got fast guys. The common theme is that everybody has to have a love of the game, and they have to have their fitness level up so they can play continuously.”

Rugby matches are played over two 40-minute halves. Merideth says conditioning is important so Zoomies can keep up the pressure on their opponents throughout an entire match.

“With rugby, you don’t have the in-and-out substitutions, and you don’t have the stoppages you have in other sports,” Merideth explains. “With that intensity, it compounds the fatigue.”

Another factor that works in AFA rugby’s favor is the intelligence level of the athletes on the team, he notes.

“We’re dealing with smart young people. Everybody is at the Academy,” he says. “Being able to develop their knowledge of the game, and being able to use that intelligence to play a smarter game, is where we are putting a lot of our effort.”

Player development

The vast majority of the players on the AFA rugby team have little or no experience in the sport when they sign up.

That fact doesn’t stop the typically adventurous cadets from trying out rugby, Merideth reports.

It can be a “steep learning curve” as players try to pick up the nuances of rugby, Merideth explains, but the reality that all cadets are fit and athletic helps in the transition.

Many Zoomies enter their rugby career with wrestling and/or football experience. A few come with backgrounds in soccer or lacrosse.

“It’s kind of like wrestling and football put together,” says Christian Agmata ’18, Honolulu, Hawaii. “It’s like a combination of both — the team aspect of football with the take-downs of wrestling.”

Agmata says it took him about two months to catch on to the sport but only a matter of days to fall in love with rugby.

“It’s really like playing backyard football. It’s just fun,” he explains.

“And it’s a good avenue to release that Type A personality, because everyone is competitive at the Academy.”

Joining the rugby club also gave Agmata a chance to meet and positively interact with upperclassmen.

“It’s a great networking opportunity,” he explains. “I know many of my classmates who stay in their rooms, because it’s kind of scary walking out of your room. But this gives you a chance to get to know upperclassmen outside of the normal military day.”

Cody Vaughn ’17 of Villa Rica, Georgia, also came to rugby with a football and wrestling background. He says it was a difficult sport to learn, but now he enjoys the atmosphere of practices and matches.

76 · usafa.org

The Zoomies get out to a 10-0 lead in the first half of a match against the University of Colorado-Boulder. The game was played in Glendale, Colorado on Oct. 24.

“It’s a real tight brotherhood,” he says. “We basically go to battle with each other and we come out as great friends. You develop a tighter bond with those you play with every day.”

Brady Miner ’17, Idaho Falls, Idaho, is one of the few cadets with some experience playing rugby. He admits that the feeling of brotherhood that teammates develop is an important aspect of being a Zoomie.

“The guys have my back and I have theirs,” he explains. “And you have a good time together.”

Miner says he enjoys how “fluid” rugby matches can be, as action doesn’t stop unless points are scored or play is stopped by an infraction of the ball going “into touch” (out of bounds).

“Plus, it’s not always a certain person who runs the ball or always gets to score,” he says, explaining how the ball passes through every player’s hands throughout a match. “Everyone has to help with everything. There’s a lot more teamwork involved. You all have to work together, and I like that a lot.”

Rugby alums have Zoomies’ backs More than 2,000 cadets have played rugby during their Air Force Academy careers. Many of those alums of the men’s and women’s teams have stayed connected with the current Zoomie squads and offer financial and fan support when they can.

Harry Laws ’69, secretary of the AOG Rugby Alumni Affinity Group, reports that the alumni group is three years into a 10-year plan to establish an endowment that will help make the Zoomies self sustaining. The group is working toward a $1 million goal overall.

Laws says the team’s supporters are highly optimistic about the Zoomies’ prospects for the future under new head coach Denny Merideth ’73, so alumni leaders are renewing efforts to get donors to support the teams.

“There’s a strong sense of pride among our alumni with the men’s and women’s teams, and we’re excited about the direction we’re headed,” Laws says.

The alumni group has set up two funds for the men’s and the women’s teams through which donors can support the Zoomies.

Each team’s perpetual fund is invested and 4 percent of the interest earned goes to the team.

A second fund for each team allows alums to donate directly to the teams, helping them pay for annual operating expenses. More than $350,000 has been donated by alums for direct support of the men’s and women’s teams since 2010.

The rugby alumni group was formed in the early 1970s. Former players used to gather annually for an alumni game and the idea for forming an affinity group came from those contests.

Now, Laws says, the rugby alumni group is very strong.

“Friends you make on the rugby field are friends for life,” Laws says. “And we share a lot of rich history.”

The group’s current president is Nate Rosenberg ’74 and treasurer is former coach Walt Daniels. Immediate past president is Mike Cartney ’81. There are currently 13 members on the group’s board of directors and they meet together on an annual basis.

Laws said the board may expand in the near future and soon plans to meet via teleconference on a quarterly basis.

For more information about the rugby team’s history and the alumni group, or to donate to any of the rugby funds established for the Zoomies, visit www.usafarugbyalumni.com.

Laws reports that former players are asked to fill in the team history where they can. The organization also is seeking old team photographs and action photos to include with the team’s historical archives.

If any former players are not receiving email updates from the USAFA Rugby Alumni Affinity Group, Laws suggests they contact him at harryflaws@gmail.com so they can be added to the list.

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 77

NEW! Virtual Career Center Calendar

Education Center

SACC Tips

Forums Resume 101

Webinars

usafa.org/careercenter Launching your career to new heights Spring 2016

Expert Advice

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Stamps Leadership Scholars Program transports cadets to global learning opportunities Written by Jermaine Johnson

O

ne cadet spent two weeks in Senegal volunteering at a home and school for children who had been rescued from forced labor and human trafficking.

Another devoted six weeks to teaching English to refugees in Amman, Jordan.

A third cadet spent time studying at SOUTHCOM headquarters, gaining insight into how the Air Force conducts humanitarian operations.

These were the summer activities of the recipients of the Air Force Academy’s new Stamps Leadership Scholars Program scholarship. All of the participants hail from the Class of 2016.

The Stamps Leadership Scholars Program provides merit scholarships, for up to three years, to cadets who show a combination of high academic performance and leadership potential; offering them immeasurable opportunities to enhance their growth as leaders of character but also as researchers, community leaders and global citizens.

The USAFA Endowment established a partnership with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation to create the Stamps Leadership Scholars Program at the Air Force Academy. The program allows cadets to tailor a course of study to their particular interest to serve the needs of the Air Force and the American public.

The program is overseen by Dr. David Westmoreland, the senior associate dean at USAFA, and administered by Dr. Helen Meisenhelder, director of Graduate Studies.

Westmoreland works with the general education curriculum and “measures how cadets are learning and how we know that they are learning.”

80 · usafa.org

“The program seeks to nurture the synergy between the scholastic aptitude and emergent signs of leadership,” Westmoreland said. Leader-scholars are selected from among the top cadets in each class. Westmoreland chairs the selection committee and is joined by senior faculty members from each of the four academic divisions as well as representatives from the Academy Scholars Program, the Graduate Studies Program and the Commandant’s office. The committee considers the Stamps criteria (excellence in leadership, perseverance, scholarship, service and innovation) as well as the following: • Academic credentials (grade point average, major(s), minor(s) and research) • Strength of application package • Interview performance • Leadership and service potential Once selected, each leader-scholar receives a grant of $22,000, which they use toward tailored leadership development activities. The money can be used for study abroad experiences, undergraduate research internships, academic conferences, leadership training or other opportunities that are aligned with the recipients’ leadership development goals. Each leader-scholar is assigned a mentor who makes certain the curriculum they develop is a coherent plan of development, meeting strict standards that ensure these experiences will only serve to enhance each scholar’s leadership abilities.

The Stamps Foundation Beginning in 2006, Roe and Penny Stamps created merit scholarship programs for undergraduates at their alma

THE TERRAZZO maters. After seeing what a difference such awards made in the lives of recipients, the Stamps expanded their reach with similar programs at the University of Miami in 2009 and at Barry, Caltech, Florida, Illinois, UCLA and the University of Virginia in 2010. Since then, the list has grown to include more than 40 universities and colleges throughout the country, including West Point and the Naval Academy.

Seeking to give hard-working, talented students a boost, the Stamps have partnered with excellent schools to provide scholarships and fellowships, and to ensure that the students have outstanding educational experiences. Generous awards are enhanced with additional funding for summer experiences, a national convention every other year hosted by a partner university, and extras, including online networking via LinkedIn and Facebook.

Part of the foundation’s vision is to build a prestigious, merit-based scholarship program that supports exceptional students as they become leaders throughout society. This vision is perfectly aligned with the Air Force Academy’s mission of building leaders of character for the Air Force and the nation; therefore, this new scholarship is aptly suited to enhance the leadership prowess of the Academy’s cadets.

Most of the roughly 220 Stamps Scholarships given out annually are awarded to students entering a four-year university, but since the Air Force Academy does not give merit scholarships to incoming students, the Stamps Leadership Scholars Program is instead geared toward upperclassmen to fund independent leadership enhancement projects.

Annie Stamps, vice president of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation, stated, “We want to help cadets have the opportunity to participate in enrichment programs around the world. Having a broad range of experiences is what will allow cadets to become the well-rounded, meaningful leaders our society needs now and in the future.”

This past summer, nearly 500 Stamps scholars from throughout the country, including the new Air Force Lead-

er-Scholars, gathered for a biennial national convention in Atlanta, hosted by the Georgia Institute of Technology, to discuss current challenges in various academic fields. The group also visited CNN, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Carter Center and the Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Scholars with similar academic interests were given the opportunity to work together in professionally focused threads, observe the work that other students were doing at the Stamps Scholars exposition, and enjoy speeches given by selected scholars. The convention featured speeches from scholarship founders Roe and Penny Stamps, Harvard Business School professor Bill George, public speaker and educator Bill Curry, and CNN journalist Tom Foreman, who is the father of a Stamps Scholar alumna.

Westmoreland said he was impressed with the cadet scholars after spending time with each of them.

“I had the opportunity to really get to know them and became even more impressed when I learned what each student planned to study over the summer,” he said.

“These students are doing some remarkable things.”

Stamps Leader-Scholars The following three inaugural leader-scholars are charting the course for future participants in the program: • As a leader-scholar, Steven Brandt had the opportunity to explore his “two big passions in life” — the development in Sub-Saharan Africa and the issue of human trafficking. In the spring of 2015, Brandt spent two weeks in Saint-Louis, Senegal, volunteering at Maison de la Gare, a rescue home and school for young boys who have been trafficked into the forced labor and begging industry. In the summer, he had a six-week internship in Washington, D.C., at the Department of Defense’s Counter-Trafficking in Persons office and the Department of Labor. During Brandt’s internship, he was able to assist in the developSteven Brandt ’16 spent two weeks as a volunteer at a rescue home for young boys in Senegal.

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 81

THE TERRAZZO “Seeking to give hard-working, talented students a boost, the Stamps have partnered with excellent schools to provide scholarships and fellowships, and to ensure that the students have outstanding educational experiences. ” ment of a training program that provided law enforcement agents with interview techniques for engaging individuals who had been trafficked overseas or in the United States.

“It was a great opportunity for me to see how the issue of human trafficking, which I am passionate about, connects with the mission of the DoD to protect U.S. citizens and our goals abroad. This was a great opportunity to experience first-hand some of the things I learned about in the classroom,” Brandt said of his travels and internship.

• It was a previous trip to Afghanistan and Southeast Asia that sparked Tory Gullo’s interest in the Middle East and the Arabic language. She spent six weeks in an International Studies Abroad (ISA) experiential learning program in Amman, Jordan, interning with local non-governmental organizations (NGOs). While in Amman, she taught Eng-

Tory Gullo ’16 helped teach English to refugees at a women’s center in Amman. lish to women and children refugees at a women’s center.

Even with Gullo’s limited Arabic and the refugees’ limited English, she still found their conversations engaging and entertaining, varying from discussions regarding favorite foods to dreams about their future lives. “It’s really incredible that, despite the language barrier, we still shared so much and had so much in common,” Gullo said.

82 · usafa.org

• Gullo and fellow leader-scholar Andrew Vanden Berg attended the Aspen Institute, an international nonprofit organization that is dedicated to “fostering enlightened leadership, the appreciation of timeless ideas and values, and open-minded dialogue on contemporary issues.” There they were able to attend one symposium that explored the music of Beethoven, Mozart and Haydn. As a former violinist, being at the Aspen Institute was of particular interest to Gullo because it allowed her to get back in touch with her artistic side. Gullo said her

Andrew Vanden Berg ’16 spent time this summer at SOUTHCOM.

time at the institute provided her with a refreshingly new point of view that she enjoyed sharing with her fellow cadets.

They also attended a symposium titled “Understanding the Islamic State (ISIS) and Its Threat to Global Security.”

From this symposium, they both learned about the history, culture and ideology of ISIS and the impact of foreign policy. “This seminar gave me some perspective on what my role will be as a future military officer and especially my role as a leader of the Air Force. I am thankful to be a leaderscholar and for the opportunity to continue to develop myself as a leader of character,” Gullo said. Both Vanden Berg and Gullo have been selected as finalists for the Rhodes and Marshall post-graduate scholarship programs.

• Vanden Berg was interested in learning more about how the Air Force functions outside of traditional military operations.

In the spring of 2015, he traveled to United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), located in Miami, Florida.

SOUTHCOM is a joint command comprised of more than 1,200 military and civilian personnel representing Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and several other federal agencies. It is responsible for providing contingency planning,

operations and security cooperation to Central America, South America and parts of the Caribbean. The command also is responsible for the force protection of U.S. military resources at these locations and ensuring the defense of the Panama Canal.

While at SOUTHCOM, Vanden Berg was able to learn more about Air Force operations from government agencies that work with countries in Central and South America.

As previously mentioned, another area of interest Vanden Berg pursued was expanding his knowledge of world events at the Aspen Institute. In addition to the seminars he attended with Gullo, he was present at one titled “The Future of Privacy and Transparency: Surveillance in a Digital Age.” At this seminar, Vanden Berg was able to examine the Fourth Amendment and discuss the role and responsibility of the government with the widespread availability of personal data.

“These experiences give me the opportunity to return to the Academy and share what I have learned with more insight and understanding. This has been a great opportunity, one that I am immensely grateful for,” Vanden Berg said of his experiences.

With continued support, the Stamps Leadership Scholars Program hopes to offer even more cadets the unique academic opportunity to enrich their journey on the Long Blue Line as they become leaders of character.

The Stamps Family Charitable Foundation founders:

Roe Stamps is a co-founder of the Boston-based private investment company Summit Partners. A former U.S. Navy Reserve lieutenant, he graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in industrial engineering and earned his master’s in business administration from Harvard Business School. Stamps is a trustee emeritus of the Georgia Tech Foundation, a trustee of the University of Miami and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, among others. He has received Georgia Tech’s Distinguished Alumnus Award from the School of Industrial and Systems Engineering and the Joseph Mayo Pettit Alumni Distinguished Service Award, the highest award conferred by the Georgia Tech Alumni Association. He was inducted into Georgia Tech’s Engineering Hall of Fame in 2001. In 2010, Stamps was recognized as Humanitarian of the Year by the American Red Cross South Florida Region. In 2012, he received the Alumni Achievement Award from Harvard Business School.

Penny Stamps, a Chicago native, attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she earned a bachelor of arts degree in design from the School of Art and a teaching certificate in elementary education. She had a career as an interior designer. She established a lecture series at Michigan featuring leaders in disciplines as diverse as architecture, engineering, music, fashion design and environmentalism. The University of Michigan recently named the Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design in her honor.

GIVING BY THE NUMBERS

Academics The Endowment has raised over $8.3 million for Academic Funds Academic Donations by Donor Type Graduates $4.8 million Corporations and Foundations $2.7 million Others (including parents and friends)

$800,000

672 donors have now made a gift to a designated Academic Fund

Academic Donations by Purpose (Division Funds)

Dean of the Faculty Funds $5.4 million

Basic Sciences Division Funds $150,000 Engineering Division Funds $597,000 Humanities Division Funds $601,000

Social Sciences Division Funds $1.6 million

Top 5 Classes for Academic Donors Class of 1981 Class of 1989 Class of 2012 Class of 2013 Class of 1985 For a full listing of Academic designated funds, please visit our online giving list of funds at www.usafa.org/give.

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 83

THE TERRAZZO

G

Gen. Norty Schwartz ’73 receives national defense honor Written by Jeff Holmquist

Gen. (Ret.) Norton A. Schwartz ’73, the Air Force’s 19th chief of staff, received the Thomas D. White National Defense Award at an Air Force Academy ceremony Sept. 9.

Schwartz actually garnered the award in 2013 but was unable to accept the award in person until this fall.

“It was a privilege to return to USAFA to receive an award that had recognized such distinguished Americans in years past,” Schwartz said.

Named after the U.S. Air Force’s fourth chief of staff, the Thomas D. White National Defense Award is given annually to an individual who has contributed significantly to our national defense and security efforts.

In introducing Schwartz during the ceremony at Arnold Hall, Superintendent Lt. Gen. Michelle Johnson ’81 praised the honoree for his “vision and efforts” that helped guide the Air Force into the 21st Century.

“As our 19th chief of staff of the Air Force, he made a number of innovations, to include shift-

ing emphasis solely from traditional aircraft to remotely piloted aircraft missions … and strengthening the execution and oversight of the Air Force’s nuclear deterrence mission.”

Schwartz told the crowd that he appreciated the honor and recognized his wife, Suzie, as a partner in his career success.

“We did this together,” he said. “It was a journey of pride and a journey about what we learned here [at the Academy].”

As a cadet, Schwartz said he learned that public service is “a higher calling” and he has tried to live that out through his career.

Following the ceremony, a brief reception for guests and fellow Class of 1973 graduates was held.

The crowd then departed for the terrazzo where a cadet parade was conducted in Schwartz’s honor.

“I certainly never imagined I would be the honoree at a cadet parade after leaving active duty,” he commented. “That was particularly special.”

A command pilot with more than 4,400 flying hours in various aircraft, Schwartz began his Air

Lt. Gen. Michelle Johnson ’81 presents the Thomas D. White National Defense Award to Gen. Norty Schwartz ’73 at a Sept. 9 ceremony.

84 · usafa.org

Force career as a pilot during the 1975 Saigon airlift. Schwartz served in operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm as chief of staff of the Joint Operations Task Force for Northern Iraq. He later led the Joint Task Force that prepared for the noncombatant evacuation of U.S. citizens in Cambodia in 1997.

He finished his 39-year Air Force career as the Air Force chief of staff from 2008 to 2012. Schwartz is now president and chief executive officer of Business Executives for National Security, a Washington, D.C., nonprofit whose mission is to provide business-driven solutions and advice addressing the challenges facing our national security leadership.

Previous T.D. White Award recipients include Gen. Curtis LeMay, World War II commander in Europe and the Pacific and planner of the Berlin Airlift; Lt. Gen. James Doolittle, former chairman of the Air Force Scientific Advisory Board and World War II aviation hero; Igor Sikorsky, pioneer aircraft designer; Bob Hope, international entertainer; and presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush.

Doolittle Hall

With spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and the scenic Front Range, your guests will have an exceptional experience that will put your event on the map!

events.usafa.org 719.472.0300 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840 Ties to the military are not necessary to use this facility.

ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY

THE TERRAZZO

CADET QUESTION What are your goals for 2016?

“I want to do a fitness competition.

There is a bodybuilding club here and I haven’t done much with them, so I would like to start getting more involved and train with other cadets.”

C3C Monica Callan

“Graduating with a good GPA and getting into a good dental school. It’s a lengthy process and it lasts until April, so there’s a lot of work to be done to get there.”

88 · usafa.org

“I want to leave an impact here, and with the people that are staying here at the Academy. I really want to leave my mark with the younger cadets, give them good advice. I’m a flight commander and I’m on the women’s boxing team, so I want to inspire those girls to be successful.”

C1C Kassandra Prusko

C1C Kemal Baksh

“Preparing myself to lead people in the Air Force. That’s a big goal; especially after having Gen. [Mark] Welsh (Chief of Staff of the Air Force) speak to us.

In just a few short months, it’s not just going to be about school anymore, there’s going to be people who rely on me for specific things, and I want to make sure I’m ready to deliver on that.”

C1C Matthew Dirk

GRADUATE DEPENDENT

SCHOLARSHIPS APPLY NOW! The Board of Directors of the Association of Graduates is pleased to once again offer Graduate Dependent Scholarships.

These scholarships are annual awards of $500 and are intended to directly support postsecondary education for the children of AOG graduate members.

For complete eligibility requirements and an application, visit www.usafa.org/membership/scholarships.

The application deadline is March 6, 2016.

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 89

ROLL CALL

Photo by Nathan Jones.

90 · usafa.org

Worth a Thousand Words Depicted in a statue near the Academy chapel, the hand of Lt. Gen. Hubert R. Harmon hovers over the skyline of the Air Force Academy. Harmon was the Academy’s first superintendent, and his influence and impact continue to be felt in Academy life today.

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 91

Barbara Rankin MBA, Realtor®, USAFA ‘96 Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS)

Your trusted real estate professional in Summit County, Colorado.

Barbara Rankin Broker/Owner tel 970.406.1809 office 970.513.8200

www.SkiRealEstateColorado.com

NOW SERVING TWO LOCATIONS

23110 Hwy 6 #107

Gateway Building Keystone, CO 80435

Breckenridge • Copper Mountain • Dillon • Frisco • Keystone • Silverthorne

92 · usafa.org

111A Lincoln Avenue Breckenridge, CO 80424

senior living never looked this good

At Blue Skies of Texas, we offer a variety of independent living options with access to higher levels of care within the community - for that seamless transition later in life.

You’ve worked hard in your career - now treat yourself to the lifestyle and care you deserve.

Blue Skies East • 4917 Ravenswood Dr. • San Antonio, TX. 78227 Blue Skies West • 5100 John D. Ryan Blvd. • San Antonio, TX. 78245

800.790.3954

blueskiesoftexas.org

When you’re ready to prepare for a successful civilian life, we’re here to help. With undergraduate degrees starting at $250 per credit hour,* accelerated and flexible scheduling, and a supportive staff of veterans at your side, you’ll soon be armed and ready to move ahead. Initiate your successful transition at bellevue.edu.

bellevue.edu

FLEXIBLE. AFFORDABLE. ACCREDITED. NONPROFIT.

*Active duty members of the United States Military, National Guard, Reserve and Coast Guard who declare a BS in Leadership, Management, Criminal Justice, Investigations, or IT Operations Management are eligible for a tuition rate of $250.00 per credit hour for all courses in their undergraduate degree. Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission through the U.S. Department of Education, www.ncahlc.org, 800.621.7440. Bellevue University does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or disability in the educational programs and activities it operates. Bellevue University, 1000 Galvin Road South, Bellevue, NE 68005.

Belle154587_CheckpointsUSAFA Magazine.indd 1

BAILEY LAUERMAN Bellevue University advanceable ad

10/6/152015 1:37 ·PM Checkpoints · December 93

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN Richard M. Bigelow, ’59 Regarded as a southern gentleman, Richard (Dick) Bigelow was kindhearted and never stopped opening doors for the ladies or standing when a lady came into the room. Presenting himself at his best for whatever he was doing and wherever he was going, his striking appearance won him the title of “Best Looking” during his senior year at Warwick High School in Newport News, Va. At an early age, Dick showed a passion and fascination for paper airplanes; the number of them made is still unknown to this day. Later, he traded paper planes for those he handmade from balsa wood – planes of much better quality and detail. His love for planes led him to make the easy choice to attend Georgia Tech for two years until the Air Force Academy was completed. His stepfather, an Army officer, wanted him to attend West Point; however, Dick wanted to fly and proudly became a Fighting Falcon.

He received his pilot wings in June 1960 and flew KC-97s, KC-135s, and the HH-53.

He served in the Air Force for 23 years, including Air Rescue and Recovery (Thailand ’71-’72, Hawaii ’73-’75) and completed his military career as the 390th Titan Missile Maintenance Commander at Davis Monthan AFB in Tucson, Ariz. Military decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with five Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Air Force Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters.

Growing up, Dick traveled extensively and had seen much of the United States, Europe, and Turkey. While in the service, he continued frequent intercontinental and U.S. travel such that his three children were born within five years of each other in South Carolina, Texas, and Maine. The family’s favorite station was Hawaii – even though his youngest child doesn’t remember it.

Following retirement, his wife, Bea, insisted he get out of the house and keep busy. He worked at Davis Monthan Credit Union for the supervisory committee completing in-house audits. In addition, Dick and Bea spent countless hours hauling kids in the green family station wagon to and from baseball and football practices and games. On the rare occasion of an evening off from their kids’ sporting events, they could be found enjoying time with friends at a favorite restaurant or a backyard BBQ. A quiet evening at home often included a sociable game of darts.

Dick was also a founding member of the Santa Rita High School Booster Club where he was an integral part of constructing the snack bar and baseball dugouts. Dick was blessed with eight grandkids but much to his dismay, he was not successful passing on his love of paper airplanes to any of them.

An avid Atlanta fan, Dick rarely missed any televised Atlanta Falcons or Braves games; sometimes he and Bea occasionally traveled to Phoenix to watch the Braves against the Diamondbacks. They also enjoyed vacationing at casinos in Laughlin and Las Vegas, complemented with their weekly trips for dinner and games at the local casinos.

Dick passed away shortly after celebrating his 81st birthday with family and friends. His dry, sarcastic humor and devilish grin will be missed by all. He is survived by his wife, Bea, of 51 years; children Rich (Sandra), Art (Kandis), Carolyn (Jon); and grandchildren (Brett, Taylor, Artie, Trevor, Zach, Jordan, Josh, and Jamie).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Alfred Malone, Maude (Molly) Pruett Bigelow, and step-father Gene Bigelow along with his brothers Charles and Jonathan. A memorial service was held at Bring’s Broadway Chapel in Tucson on Sept. 25, 2015. (The Bigelow Family)

James K. Fletcher, ’59 James K. Fletcher “Fletch” died at home on June 27, 2015 at the age of 78. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lt. Col. James and Jane Fletcher, of San Antonio, Texas. Fletch is survived by his sons and their families: First son Douglas (Heidi), daughters Morrigan and Quinlan; stepchildren Liam and Fiona, and chosen son Mathew Vetter. Second son Richard (Renee), and stepchildren Nikki, Greg and Brittany; and former wife, Petey Fletcher – all of Denver.

Gone But Not Forgotten Notifications

Fletcher attended school in San Antonio and graduated from Texas Military Institute (TMI). He wanted to be a pilot and was appointed in July 1955 into the first class of the Air Force Academy which was then located at Lowry AFB in Denver. In the fall of 1958, the Academy moved to its permanent site in Colorado Springs in time for graduation on June 3, 1959.

Then it was on to flight training in Florida and West Texas, where he was assigned for his entire five-year commitment. He then left the service and moved his family to Denver where he became a pilot for Continental Airlines and a member of the Colorado Air National Guard 120th Squadron flying the F-100 Super Sabre jet.

The Guard was activated and deployed to Phan Rang Base in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969 where he flew 230 combat missions and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and numerous Air Medals.

When this phase ended he entered Denver University Sturm Law School where he earned his JD and also his LLM in Taxation Law. His health began to decline and retirement was in view, but he continued to learn and study new subjects.

He sometimes recalled the dreaded mowing of the gigantic lawn of his youth, the great hunting trips tracking white tail deer and wild turkey in the Texas hill country, scuba diving trips to the Micronesian islands/Jamaica/Bahamas, bow hunting, heady bridge games, Air Force Academy classmates and walking tours, Continental Air Lines scheduling and cohorts, the 120th Guard drill weekends, Turkey/dead bug, Vietnam, too many tomato plants, Mexican food hot enough to clear the sinuses, his sons, family and friends. Jimmie Fletcher was a smart, dignified Southern gentleman who lived his life with honor.

Final inurnment will be held at a later date at the Air Force Academy Cemetery and will include a gravesite Honor Guard and “Missing Man” fly-by. (Provided by Petey Fletcher)

Edwin L. “Eddie” Rosane, ’59 Ed Rosane passed away on July 14, 2015 in Irving, Texas from complications of a stroke and Alzheimer’s dementia. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon Spencer Rosane. He is survived by his son Bret Rosane, M.D. (Cass of ‘83) and his wife, Katy Rosane, of Reno, Nev., and their three sons Truitt, Travis and Trent; daughter Susan Rosane Rutledge and her husband, Tom Rutledge, of Dallas, Texas and their four sons Kevin, Blake, Kyle and Chad.

Ed was born in Newcastle, Wyo. on July 22, 1936, the youngest of six children. He grew up in Pasco, Wash. where he is a member of the Sports Hall of Fame at Pasco High School. While at the University of Washington on a football scholarship, he was discovered by a football scout. The scout asked Ed if he would like to attend the Air Force Academy.

Ed replied, “Air Force Academy? What’s that?” Ed continued his athletic endeavors at the Academy as a member of the Falcon baseball team and as a quarterback on the undefeated ’58 football team.

While in pilot training in Florida, Ed met the love of his life, Sharon Spencer, a beautiful professional water skier at Cypress Gardens. They were married at Vance AFB, Okla. on July 2, 1960. The wedding was attended by classmate and long-time friend Dave Phillips. One of Ed’s favorite stories involved accompanying Dave in a T-33 as they did a low fly-over of the Academy from south to north having to pull up to clear Vandenberg Hall.

If you know of a graduate’s death, please notify the Association of Graduates by emailing customerservice@aogusafa.org or by calling (719) 472-0300. The AOG will then contact the next of kin and provide information on how to submit a Gone But Not Forgotten obituary to Checkpoints magazine. Due to editorial and print deadlines, please visit usafa.org for the most up to date information about graduate deaths.

94 · usafa.org

Ed served two tours in Vietnam flying the Cessna O-2 as a Forward Air Controller and the C-123 transport. In the late 1960s Ed flew the F-102 interceptor based at Elmendorf AFB, Alaska where he helped design the base golf course. In 1972 he obtained a master’s degree in computer science from Southern Methodist University.

Colonel Rosane finished his Air Force career as Deputy Commander for Operations for the 552nd AWACS based at Tinker AFB, Okla.

Ed started his second career at USAA in San Antonio, Texas. There he obtained his CLU and FMLI certifications while working his way up to become president of the company. In his leisure time Ed enjoyed playing golf “on days that end in Y” at the Dominion Country Club where he served on the board of directors. He also enjoyed going on ski trips with classmates in Colorado and travelling the world with Sharon.

Ed remained involved with the Academy participating in the Falcon Foundation and interviewing prospective USAFA candidates.

Ed had a wonderful sense of humor and always had a good story to tell. He was known for his honesty and dedication to his family. Coworkers at USAA admired him for his leadership style which included writing personal letters of encouragement as well as birthday wishes. Ed was generous with his time and money to help the less fortunate. He also had a zest for life.

One of Ed’s favorite sayings was “everything in moderation… even moderation.”

He suffered later in life from dementia, but never lost his sense of humor. When his grandson Truitt Rosane visited him at the Silverado Memory Care Facility, he was jokingly advised “you’d better behave, he’s a lawyer!” Ed replied “then he can defend me.” His family is grateful for the excellent care he received there.

A memorial service was held at the Academy Chapel on Oct. 9. Ed was buried with his bride, Sharon, at the USAF Academy. (Bret Rosane, ’83 and Tom Rutledge)

Douglas A. Rekenthaler, ’60 Doug was larger than life all his life. Born March 13, 1937, in Sioux City, Iowa, the principal heritage of his childhood experience was instillation of a strong work ethic: paperboy, bakery pan scraper, dairy store cleaner, soda jerk, then airman in the Iowa ANG’s 174th TFS. As a freshman at Iowa State University studying physics and aeronautical engineering, he was participating in the AFROTC program when selected to enter the second class at the United States Air Force Academy. In 1st Squadron at the Academy, tennis and golf were his favorite sports. Following graduation, he headed to Mission Texas for primary pilot training in T-34s and T-37s and then basic pilot training in T-33s at Williams AFB, Ariz.

After tours in C-130 troop transport and RC-130 Cuban COMINT/SIGINT missions, Doug obtained a M.S. in astrophysics from the University of Florida in 1965.

He returned to the COMINT/SIGINT mission at the Air Force Weapons Laboratory where he became the operations research analyst, pilot and laser systems operator for the laser airborne weapon (LAW) program.

His Vietnam tour consisted of duty as a mission fragger and command briefer.

During his tour, he logged 1,000 hours of flight time. He returned to the Air Force Technical Applications Center as deputy for the air-launched, air-recoverable missile program. Following AFTAC, he received an assignment as the Squadron Commander of Joint Programs Coordinating Unit, American Embassy, New Delhi, India. He commanded some 3,000 Indian nationals, many with advanced degrees in math, physics, or geoscience, eight senior USAF sergeants, and four listening stations to characterize events in various countries.

Doug completed Squadron Officer’s School, Industrial College of the Armed Forces, and Air War College through correspondence. Following attendance at the Armed Forces Staff College, he reported to CINCSouth as a J-5 plans officer. His previous scientific intelligence background drew him to HQ SAC as the program manager for exploitation of Russian radar jammers; Assistant to Chief Scientist, Defense Mapping Agency; Squadron Commander, 544th Intelligence Analysis Squadron; and finally Squadron Commander, 544th Target Materials Squadron.

Doug’s transition from the military to the civilian technology world in 1980 as executive vice president, Phoenix Corporation found him involved in geophysical interpretations for several Middle East nations.

In 1982 Doug joined BDM as Assistant Vice President tasked to form a group working with the national Intelligence community to build a “land armaments and manpower model (LAMM) of the Soviet army.” While interviewing Russian

technical experts, Doug developed his knowledge of Russian submarine detection systems, rekindling earlier interests in space-based synthetic aperture radar (SAR) for Non-Acoustic Anti-Submarine Warfare (NAASW). In 1984, Doug proceeded to form Rekenthaler Technology Associates (RTA) addressing submarine vulnerability, a direction he pursued the remainder of his life.

In 2006, he received a Juris Doctorate of Law from West Virginia College.

Doug passed away July 21, 2015 at his farm in Maryland. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, he leaves behind his wife, Vicky; four children, six grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and a step-daughter in the Class of 2019 at the USAF Academy. Moved by the life of a disadvantaged childhood classmate, Doug was motivated to always make the best of his own life and do whatever he could for mankind, if only because others did not have those same choices and chances.

Hail and farewell to Doug Rekenthaler who silently returned to USAFA after a lifetime of service to his nation. No doubt he will continue to work on national security issues in spirit as he watches over the Class of 2019 as they grow in stature and join the Long Blue Line. (Ralph Lalime and Vicki Stewart-Moore)

Thomas F. Seebode, ’60 Col. Thomas Frederick Seebode, 77, entered into his final crew rest Aug. 26, 2015 at his home in Hopkins, S.C. Born Nov. 7, 1937 in Memphis, Tenn., he was the son of the late Vemey and Kathleen (Wiggins) Seebode. Tom was a graduate of Messick High School in Memphis. A member of the Lebanon United Methodist Church in Eastover, S.C., he taught the Fidelis Sunday School Class for many years and served on several committees, including the Administrative Board of the church.

A 1960 graduate of the Air Force Academy, Colonel Seebode served 26 years in the U.S. Air Force. He served as a forward air controller in Vietnam, earning numerous military honors including the Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross and Bronze Star.

During his distinguished career, he flew the T-33, T-37, O-1, C-141, C-5 and C-135.

Among his assignments, Tom participated in the evacuation of Americans from Iran, provided airlift support during the Bay of Pigs, piloted the first U.S. aircraft to arrive in Jonestown in South America, and served in a joint assignment with the Army while stationed in Korea. He continued his military career as professor of aerospace studies at Virginia Military Institute, where he wrote the Air Force ROTC history at VMI for the institute’s official publication.

Retiring from the Air Force in 1986 at Maxwell Air Force Base (Air War College staff), Ala. , he earned his doctorate in public administration from the University of Alabama and then taught in the master’s program at Troy University in Sumter, S.C. for 15 years. Tom particularly enjoyed mentoring youth and adults in educational/ military opportunities. Several of his mentees successfully completed their educations at military schools and subsequently have enjoyed full military careers. He continued to pursue his hobbies of fly-tying, fishing, and recreational flying.

As satisfied as he was with his career, Colonel Seebode was even more proud of his family. He was married for more than 55 years to his childhood sweetheart, Carole (Gifford) Seebode. He was a devoted and loving father/grandfather to his daughters, Elizabeth Waldrop and Jennifer Day; and four grandchildren, Taylor and Sarah Waldrop and Rebecca and Alex Day. Lt. Col. (USAF, Ret) Elizabeth Waldrop was promoted to major at Langely AFB in the very room where Colonel Seebode had been promoted to major many years prior. Jennifer served for 10 years as an USAF pilot, and flew several of the same tail numbers that Tom flew – both in pilot training and flying the line in KC-135s that had been modified from C-135s. During pilot training at Vance AFB, Jennifer lived in the dorm named for Sam Waters, Class of 1960 and former AFA roommate of Colonel Seebode.

He leaves two sisters, Kay Robinson and Gail Evans; sister-in-law Melissa Hallstrom; as well as four nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life was held on Aug. 29, 2015 at the Lebanon United Methodist Church in Eastover, S.C. Final burial arrangements at the Air Force Academy were held Oct. 2, 2015. During the service at the Academy, the Chaplain commented on the attributes of Friendship, Freedom, and Family which perfectly described and were constantly evident in Tom’s way of life. (Tom’s loving family)

Checkpoints · December 2015

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN William N. Knipp, ’62 Bill Knipp, 75, passed away on July 25 at the Veterans Hospital in Tampa, Fla. suffering complications following heart surgery. Bill’s family, classmates, colleagues and friends alike lost an icon of what it means to be a human being. To all who knew him, Bill was a living example of the fact that strong relationships underwrite a well-lived life. Throughout uncertainties, he always strived to be the best he could be, helping others toward that same goal in the process. And we all loved him for it.

A native of Dearborn, Mich., Bill excelled in high school, driven by a fierce competitiveness. While at USAFA, he was captain of the basketball team which set season records and participated in March Madness, achievements not duplicated for another 40 years.

Following graduation and marriage to his Colorado sweetheart Pat, Bill completed UPT, then successive tours at Selfridge (KC-97), Dyess (C-130), Otis (RC-121) and Korat (RC-121). Following wartime, he took his passion for flight to Continental Airlines, remaining until 1985 when industry turbulence and corporate mismanagement decimated the workforce and forced the demise of well-known aviation trademarks. The uncertainties of Bill’s airline career also may have contributed to his and Pat’s separation and divorce.

Relocating to Tampa, Bill met the love of his life, Gayla. Over the next 25 years, she was his lover, companion, friend, confidant and counselor. Bill also joined an established Peterbilt franchise, diving into business with typical enthusiasm only to watch opportunities dissolve as a faltering economy dealt the transportation industry a death blow. Turning next to real estate, Bill progressed rapidly, partnering with Gayla in the establishment of their own RE/MAX franchise. Once again, he was made painfully aware that timing is everything, as the housing market imploded in the aftermath of the 2007/08 recession.

Bill decided to retire from professional life. Following some short-lived attempts at staying busy, he secured employment which truly touched his heart, working for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department as a crossing guard for Clark Elementary School.

This brief travelogue belies the real story of what made Bill so special. Despite successive setbacks, he remained focused on life’s opportunities. Events that could well have left him despondent fell away before his enthusiasm for life, a confidence in the future and his grateful appreciation for every blessing. Despite uncertainty, he remained loyal… most importantly to those with whom he enjoyed strong relationships. Family was always foremost, with friends a close second. Throughout his life, family represented his real source of pride – his loves, his kids Lisa and David, and more recently, his grandkids Jake and Riley, whose considerable achievements “on the fields of friendly strife” were his constant joy.

–Gayla tells how she and Bill were more in love today than on their wedding day.

–Lisa and David tell how he was always there for them, supporting them in every endeavor, teaching them to strive for excellence.

–Close friends cite his enthusiasm for life, integrity in the face of adversity, and resilience to the obstacles that came his way.

–And the kids of Clark Elementary enthusiastically relate how “Mr. Bill” represented the highlight of every school day, as he counseled them on matters well beyond pedestrian safety.

A sage philosopher once opined that “Strong relationships… require commitment, loyalty, love, patience and persistence.” Bill Knipp lived this premise, in times good and bad. In so doing, he brought to others’ lives those elements of character that were his own strength, making us each a better person. For that, we are eternally grateful. (Butch Viccellio, classmate and friend)

Charles T. “Tom” Hill, ’64 Col. (Ret) Charles T. “Tom” Hill passed away on Aug. 7, 2015. He was born March 30, 1942 in Boone, Iowa. Tom graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1964.

Some of the most memorable days of his life were spent at the Academy.

As a cadet, Tom demonstrated his leadership by serving as the flight commander and a flight chief for 8th Squadron. He attended Pilot Indoctrination at Laredo AFB and was chosen for the Far East Field Trip. While at USAFA, Tom enjoyed football, basketball, rugby, and boxing. Classmates fondly remember Tom’s playful pranks with his fellow 8th Squadron buddies.

Following graduation, Tom was assigned to EC-121s as a second lieutenant with 96 · usafa.org

the 963rd AEW&C Sq. (ADC), at McClellan AFB, Calif.

From there Tom joined the Pilot Training Class of 66-A at Craig AFB. On his wedding day, July 2, 1966, Tom received his orders for the 14th Air Commando Wing PACAF, where he flew the AC-47/Puff the Magic Dragon from 1966-1967. Upon returning from Da Nang, Tom was assigned to Otis AFB, Mass. and EC-121s again. Next, he flew the EC-118 at Richards Gebaur AFB, Mo. with the 4650th Combat Support Group ADC. Eventually, Tom returned to the Academy to serve as the 30th Squadron AOC, the Commandant Executive Officer for the Honor & Ethics Committee, and fly T-39s.

The next chapter of Tom’s career took him to Tinker AFB, Okla. to work with the new AWACS as Chief of Stan-Eval. Tom’s work with AWACS also took him to Langley AFB and SHAPE, Belgium, where he served as Chief – NATO Airborne Early Warning Cell. Tom ultimately returned with AWACS to Tinker, where he retired in 1991.

In between these assignments, Tom also graduated from SOS, Air Command and Staff College (where he also earned his MA from Troy State concurrently), and Air War College in residence. Tom enjoyed a long and distinguished flying career, becoming a command pilot with more than 3,000 hours of pilot time.

His military decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Distinguished Flying Crosse w/3OLC, Meritorious Service Medal w/3OLC, and Air Medal w/11OLC, among others. Tom is remembered as a devoted patriot, a strong leader, and the ultimate protector of his friends. Upon retirement, Tom began a successful second career as a counselor at Rose State College. Despite all his accomplishments, he will most be remembered for his devotion to his family, teaching magic tricks to his granddaughters, and never refusing a challenge for a game of cribbage.

He enjoyed racquetball, puzzles, cards, gardening, swapping “There I was” memories (that got better with every telling) with his fellow Daedalians of the Wiley Post Flight, and most of all, spending time with his family. Tom was a loving husband, devoted father, proud Granddaddy, and our hero. Tom’s parting words were always, “Fly Safe.” Tom is survived by his wife of 49 years, Sandy; daughter and son-in-law, Cami and Gene Thatcher; daughter and son-in-law, Marni and Taylor Wyand; and granddaughters Lauren and Sydney Wyand. We all miss him dearly. (Tom’s wife, Sandy, with the help of life-long friend and classmate, Col. Leroy Stutz)

Larry W. McKellar, ’69 Larry W. McKellar, ’69, died from complications due to Huntington’s disease. This disease causes the body to literally consume itself. It is a rare congenital disease manifesting symptoms anywhere from age 20 to 60. Larry was diagnosed in 2009; however, he spent only three months in a nursing home, Peninsula Rehabilitation and Care.

Larry died in Tarpon Springs, Fla. on Aug. 18, 2015. He was cremated there as well. His wife, Annalisa (“Lisa”), received the urn which will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery. Interestingly enough, the day after he died was National Aviation Day. Sounds just like something Larry would do.

Larry was born in Columbus, Miss. on March 10, 1947 to a family with two brothers, Carl Jr. and Frank, and one sister, Marcie. His mother taught dance and insisted all the boys take ballet because it would “make them nimble on their feet.”

At the age of nine, Larry was sure when he gazed at an airplane flying overhead and said, “Boy, that looks like fun.” Indeed, it was fun working his way toward the Air Force Academy. Larry also had an appointment to Annapolis. Being the humble man he was, he never made that known to Lisa until the 1990s.

His aviation career consisted of the Air Force Academy, the Air Force Reserves, Saudia Airlines and American Airlines. He flew the C-141 for the Air Force and the DC-10, 727, 747 and 777 international aircraft out of commercial bases New York, Dallas, Los Angeles and San Diego. He lived in San Bernardino, Calif.; Dallas, Texas; Los Angeles, Calif.; and San Diego.

While on active duty at Norton AFB, Larry obtained his master’s degree in system management from UCLA. Called to active duty for Operation Desert Shield/Storm, as the 729th MAS commander, Larry and Lisa moved from San Bernardino to Dana

Point, Calif., finally settling in Tarpon Springs. Fla. Larry and Lisa worked for Airline Ambassadors International providing transportation for gravely ill children. Sometimes Larry flew the same trip Lisa was working. All the children love him, of course.

For their church, Larry and Lisa ran a homeless shelter from 2007 to 2013 in Tarpon Springs: “G.R.A.C.E” Chapel (God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense). When funding stopped, they continued to operate the charity on their own for three years. It was during that time that Larry’s disease became seriously symptomatic. The hospital staff and residents adored him as he regaled them with aviation tales. He had Lisa flying as a copilot giving her orders to check the fluids, trip, wheels up . . . so funny.

Apparently they went lots of places . . . safely!

Larry had a very blessed, rich life; it could not have been better. All he wanted was to fly . . . and fly . . . and that he did. Last leg; going one way north! (Lisa McKellar, Larry’s wife)

Vincent C. Puglisi, ’70 Vince Puglisi passed away peacefully on July 23, 2015, succumbing to a three-year battle with cancer.

Rather than complain about his illness though, Vince chose instead to live life to its fullest measure, enjoying and spreading joy to the end.

Vince was a brat whose father piloted Air Force One for President Eisenhower. After starring on the football field and in the classroom at Satellite Beach High, he arrived at the Academy with what we soon learned to be his hallmark traits: full effort and relentless optimism. His infectious grin and indomitable spirit lifted his 13th, 30th and 3rd Squadron classmates no matter how many triple threats or other tribulations came our way.

After graduating as the top cadet in geography (a harbinger of his future?), Vince landed with AF Systems Command at Hanscom Field, Mass. He worked in the Combat Grande SPO for several years, then was assigned to a special investigations unit in Boston. It was during this time that Vince embarked on his notable rugby career. Before bowing to age and injury, he was a member of some of the top teams in the United States, including the Boston Rugby Club and the Chicago Lions, with whom he played in several international matches in England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. His success on the rugby pitch came as no surprise to those who competed in intramural sports at the Academy or Hanscom with Vince. He was a determined competitor and a standout performer.

Vince ventured into medical equipment sales after leaving the USAF. True to his competitive nature, he became the leading sales representative for a number of companies. His ability to close a deal and his affinity for geography made a nice blend. From his home in Connecticut, Vince traveled the world selling medical equipment, flying more than 300,000 miles a year and making a globe-circling trip at least once each year. At one point, he was Lufthansa’s third most active passenger; he accumulated over six million frequent-flyer miles! And Vince did not limit himself to medical sales. He started a number of businesses over the years, recently forming a European company to develop technology designed to speed recuperation following cardiac events. At the time of his passing, he was making plans to bring that technology to the U.S. for clinical trials.

Despite his active business life, Vince always found time for his many friends and especially his family. He could not have been more proud of or more devoted to his daughter, Anastasia.

Vince was the most optimistic of people. For him, there was never a reason to be down and nothing was insurmountable. People were drawn to Vince because of his upbeat attitude and his ability to find humor in all things. Even though he was virtually unbeatable at everything – those who knew him well would never challenge him to a board game or a trivia contest – he always made you laugh as you lost.

At the celebration of his life, a classmate said, “The next person to say something bad about Vince will be the first.” He lived a happy and accomplished life, and who doesn’t hope to be able to say that? He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. (Mike Kelley, Charlie Bobbish, and John Monahan -- classmates and friends)

Craig D. Cleveland, ’73 Craig Dana Cleveland, 64, departed for his heavenly home on July 22, 2015, after a valiant battle with cancer. His family’s devotion and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle.

Craig was born to Scott and Berniece Cleveland in Grants Pass, Ore. on March 21, 1951. He was active in the Boys Scouts of America and earned the rank of Eagle Scout in Azalea, Ore. where he was raised. He also participated in numerous sports, including football, basketball, and wrestling. Craig graduated as valedictorian of his high school class in 1969 and was appointed to the Air Force Academy, where he was a member of Squadron 34.

Craig graduated from the Academy in 1973 with a degree in geography. He served in the Air Force from 1973 to 1979, flying C-130s in Texas, Europe, and the Far East.

He then achieved his dream of flying commercial airplanes as a copilot and captain for Delta Airlines. After retiring in 2005, Craig pursued a second career as an electrician for a time.

Craig was blessed with a loving family. He met speech therapist Janice Sue Corley while based at Dyess Air Force Base, and they married on Aug. 14, 1976, in Odessa, Texas. The Clevelands raised their three daughters in Odessa and Weatherford, Texas and Craig was always a devoted, loving, and patient father willing to do anything for his girls. Craig and Jan moved to Bryan, Texas in the fall of 2014 to be close to their daughters and grandchildren. He is dearly missed by his loved ones, who celebrate the fact that he is at peace with his Creator.

Craig is survived by his wife, Jan; his daughters and their husbands, Paige and Joe Perez of Bryan, Amelia and Daniel Senneff of Houston, and Erin and James Ray of Houston; his grandchildren, Alana and Flossie Perez, and Jude, Luke, and Juliana Senneff; his parents, Scott and Berniece, of Azalea; his brothers and their wives, Stephen of Goodyear, Ariz., Jeff and Pam of Hillsboro, Ore., Randy and SuAnne of Ashland, Ore., and Phil and Melanie of Amarillo, Texas; sister- and brother-in-law, Pamela and Richard Hoffman of Odessa; and numerous nieces and nephews. (Paige Perez and Erin Ray, daughters)

Michael C. Patton, ’73 Michael Clarke Patton, 63, passed away at his home in Maplewood, N. J., on June 20, 2014. He was diagnosed with Stage 4 Renal Cell Carcinoma on April 2, 2014, and died only 10 weeks later.

While in hospice at home, he was blessed with visits from three of his fellow 1973 Academy graduates and calls from other buddies across the U.S. and Europe. Funeral services were held on June 24, 2014 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Maplewood, and separate burial services were held at the Troy Mills, Iowa Cemetery, on June 29, 2014.

Michael was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on March 3, 1951 to Lyle and the late Ramona Clarke Patton. He was a scholar and an athlete at Provo High School graduating in 1969, and then became a member of the 1973 graduating class of the United States Air Force Academy earning a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering. As a cadet, he was a competitive swimmer and a water polo aficionado.

After graduation, Michael went on for further education and completed a bachelor in science degree in meteorology from the University of Utah in 1975.

Based in Guam with his first wife and later two sons, Michael flew several missions over Vietnam and tracked typhoons and hurricanes in the Pacific Ocean as a meteorology officer. He left the United States Air Force as a captain in 1979.

Looking for a new challenge, Michael took an opportunity to teach math and physics in Madrid, Spain, in 1983 where he met his second wife, Cynthia Zimpfer.

When he returned to the States in May of 1984, he decided to pursue his passion of architecture and enrolled in the Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, graduating with a master’s degree in architecture in 1987. He married Cynthia Zimpfer in August of 1987 and moved to New Jersey. For the next several years, Michael worked with several architectural firms in New York City and New Jersey, and the NYC Housing Authority.

Checkpoints · December 2015

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN In 2002, he began working as a structural specialist consultant for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and was one of the first onsite reconstruction engineers in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina where he was stationed for more than four years. He went on to help in the rebuilding after floods in Orange County, New York; and Eastern Iowa; mudslides in Northern California; and Hurricane Sandy in Queens and Brooklyn, New York City. He loved helping families and businesses get back on their feet after the wrath of natural disasters.

Michael was a devoted father, avid sailor, enthusiastic golfer, and zealous Denver Broncos fan. He was the beloved husband of Cynthia Zimpfer; father of Annabelle of Colorado; Casey of Washington; and Donovan of New Jersey; and father-in-law of Jacqueline (Donovan). He is also survived by his father, Lyle Patton; two sisters, Robin Ingels-Arkell and Susan Patton; and five grandchildren.

(Mike’s loving family)

Stephen W. Smith, ’78 Stephen Wayland Smith, age 58, of Destin, Fla. passed away on July 19, 2015 at his parent’s home in Niceville, Fla. He was born in New Haven, Conn. on Sept. 13, 1956 to Richard W. and Cora L. Smith and spent his early years in Milford, Conn. Steve graduated from Hopkins School, formerly Hopkins Grammar School, in 1974.

He attended the Air Force Academy graduating in 1978. His first assignment was Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. and while there he also attended and graduated from the Air Force Flight Test School as a test flight engineer. While assigned to the 6520 Test Group, he provided support to the B-83 integration program which involved integrating the B-83 onto all F-111 aircraft.

From Edwards, Steve was assigned to the 3247th Test Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. He was the assistant chief of the Systems Engineering Branch working on AMRAAM missile test planning and execution during the AMRAAM development program. Because he was dual qualified in the F-15 and T-38 aircraft, additional duties included flying as a flight test engineer. He supported several weapon system development programs in this role. Before separating from the Air Force in 1987, Steve accumulated more than 450 hours of flying time in 26 different aircraft.

After the Air Force, Steve worked with different defense contractors, initially working for Veda, now Wyle Labs. While at Veda, Steve managed several projects including providing support to the U.S. Navy AMRAAM Program Office (PMA-268) and serving as the manager of the AMRAAM live fire test matrix for the Test Directorate of the AMRAAM Program office. This required knowledge of U.S. fighter systems,tactics, missile systems, threat aerial tactics and ECM techniques.

He performed detailed system engineering analysis on the AMRAAM missile and the launch aircraft to determine the overall weapon systems ability to support AMRAAM launch conditions.

Steve also provided support to the German Air Force and the German FlightTest Center at Manching, Germany. Specific tasks included designing and instructing the German F-4F/APG-65/AMRAAM integration test program conducted at the Pacific Missile Flight Center at Point Mugu, Calif. His contributions included refining test objectives, developing program schedules, specifying test asset and range support requirements and defining primary data analysis parameters and procedures. He performed detailed system engineering analysis on the AMRAAM missile and the launch aircraft to determine the overall weapons systems ability to support the AMRAAM launch conditions.

Steve’s next career move was to Raytheon Missile Systems Company in Tucson, Ariz. He was the principal systems engineer for the F-15/JHMCS/AIM-9X integration flight program. His responsibilities included the analysis of the AIM-9X missile development program on the F/A-18 aircraft. He assessed AIM-9X performance and aircraft integration assessments using both the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) and radar cueing sources. Additional responsibilities included direct flighttest support, generating 14-day technical performance reports and generating Matlab data analysis tools to standardize and streamline the data processing analysisprocess.

His final career move was to SENTAL Corporation as a systems engineer where he worked on weapon system integration for the Joint Programmable Fuze (JPF), the DSU33 Proximity Sensor, and the Hard Target Smart Fuze (HTSF). He addressed engineering issues applicable to two or more systems and various weapon systems.

98 · usafa.org

He also was responsible for ensuring the HTSF features were properly incorporated into the mission planning and weaponeering processes.

Survivors include his parents, Richard “Dick” and Cora Smith of Niceville, Fla.; two sons, Gary Smith of Albuquerque, N.M. and Jordan Smith of Niceville, Fla.; brother, Thomas L. Smith of Melbourne, Fla., and sister, Patricia A. Smith of Clovis, Calif. (Steve’s family members)

Robert E. Schley, ’80 Robert Eric Schley passed away on June 2, 2012. He was born in Frankfurt, Germany, the eldest of three siblings, the son of Gerhard and Ruth Schley. He was an extraordinary husband, father, son, uncle, brother, brother-in-law and friend. He is survived by his son Andrew and sister Arleen. He is preceded in death by his soul mate and beloved wife, Deidre, who passed away in 2008 after a battle with cancer; his father, Gerhard; his mother, Ruth; and brother Ronald.

Following graduation, Robert completed UPT at Columbus AFB, Class 81-08 and flew the T-33 based at Elmendorf AFB and Tyndall AFB. After leaving the Air Force, he pursued an engineering career working for Lockheed Martin in Warner Robins, Ga./Albuquerque, N.M. and also for Honeywell in Albuquerque. As an engineer for both companies, much of his contribution was in C-130 system upgrades.

Bobby, as we called him, was a Doolie in Squadron 33 and then spent three years with us in Stalag 17. He was a fun-loving guy, avid sci-fi reader and a great roommate. One of his famous quotes was “anybody can pace themselves through the course syllabus, but it takes a real man to pull an all-nighter before the GR and max it”. This was a testament to both his fun-loving nature and his intellect. A special day was when Bobby got a package from his grandmother (Oma) in Germany that was always stuffed with great chocolates and treats. Typical Bobby cared much more about sharing the care packages than having the treats himself. He was always so generous.

Bob kept life at USAFA fun with skits and antics. He cared about his squadron mates and spent long hours talking and developing great friendships. His 1979 Corvette was the “red” in our patriotic red, white and blue Corvette trio tearing it up on I-25. Fond memories of our coming-of-age craziness.

God speed Bobby; you are missed! (Stalag 17 ’80 Mates; Kathy, Fred and John)

Scott C. Ward, ’92 Lt. Col. (Ret.) Scott Coleman Ward died Aug. 12, 2015 from injuries sustained in a traffic accident. He was 47.

Scott grew up near Vail, Colo. where he was a standout high school athlete, leading his Battle Mountain football team to the state championship.

He went on to play football at the USAFA Prep School and lacrosse at the Academy.

After graduation, Scott secretly eloped with the love of his life, Jennet. Following UPT, the Wards officially wed in a traditional ceremony at the USAFA chapel before embarking on what became Scott’s distinguished Air Force flying career that spanned C-21s, KC-10s, C-37s, and Boeing 747s (both E-4 and VC-25 versions).

On Sept. 11, 2001, Scott was airborne with students on a KC-10 training sortie as an instructor pilot (McGuire AFB). After the World Trade Center attacks, he was diverted to lead the first fighter refueling missions over Manhattan.

Jokingly nicknamed “The Golden Boy” by his buddies, Scott earned his MBA, was selected for Air Command and Staff College followed by a Pentagon tour, and was hired by the 89th Airlift Wing (Andrews AFB). His outstanding pilot and leadership skills were quickly recognized, and “Wardo” was bestowed the coveted honor of being one of 10 pilots hand-selected to fly the president of the United States on Air Force One. “Any other job after this one is just going to be a job,” Scott joked about his impending retirement from active duty and the world’s most recognizable aircraft.

Scott and Jennet were thrilled when Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. offered him a position as a test pilot in Savannah, Ga. He began flying for Gulfstream while on terminal leave, officially retiring just 10 days before the accident.

A devoted, lifelong Denver Broncos fan, Scott found great sport in his natural athleticism, regularly challenging and often dominating his buddies in golf or tennis. Scott was actively involved in coaching his sons’ football and lacrosse teams.

Although recognized as an elite Air Force pilot, he will be remembered most as an amazing, inspirational, and loyal husband, father, and friend.

Scott is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Jennet; their three sons, Cole (12), Jake (11), and Zach (9); canine buddy Desmond; mother, Shirley Ward; sisters Stephanie (Ted) Archibeque, and Stacey (Phil) Kerek; brother Richard (Tami) Ward; aunt Doris Bailey; and numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews, and friends who adored him, including Academy classmates he affectionately referred to as “The Groovers.”

He was preceded in death by close friends 1st. Lt. Laura Ashley Piper (’92) and Lt. Col. Daniel Patrick Murray (’92).

Funeral services were Aug. 21 at the USAFA Chapel. Pallbearers were Tim Adams (’91), Lt. Col. (Ret) Dave Deames (’91), Col. Mark Ely (’92), Lt. Col. (Ret) J. Carlos Gacharna (’92), Troy Heithcock (’92), Col. (Ret) Dave Mott (’92), Maj. (Ret) Mike Murray (’91), and Lt. Col. Daniel Thorn (’92). Interment took place at the USAFA Cemetery.

During the service, friends and family were comforted by the verse Scott regularly imparted to his sons, donned on Bronco orange bracelets, imprinted with Air Force blue ink: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

(Joshua 1:9) [Written by Christine Gacharna with help from her husband, Carlos Gacharna (‘92), and Col Mark Ely (‘92), dear friends of Scott and Jennet.]

Matthew D. Roland, ’10 Capt. Matthew David Roland was born Dec. 24, 1987 at Ellsworth AFB, S.D. to Mark and Barbara Roland. He was killed on Aug. 26, 2015 during combat operations in Afghanistan. His quick actions at the time of the event saved the lives of many. Captain Roland is survived by his parents, Col. (USAF, Ret) Mark and Barbara Roland, his sister Erica Roland, and niece Willamina Roland. Family was huge to Matt, and the more time you spend around his family, the more it is so easy to see the impressions that they left on him. Matt grew up living the military lifestyle, moving frequently and eventually landing in Lexington, Ky. He attended Lexington Catholic High School before entering the Air Force Academy. Matt was a man of great passion and dedication and he showed those qualities early on in Boy Scouts. He made his way to Eagle Scout and was given the nickname McGiver by his fellow scouts. Always selfless, Matt would continually go out of his way to help those around him. Whether he was helping a classmate work on their PT or their class work, Matt would always make time for those who needed him. Practical jokes and construction went hand in hand for Matt. From building a bar table for the squadron, to helping to sheetrock and enclose half a senior’s room for 100th night, Matt was pretty handy.

During junior year, after possibly watching too many episodes of The Unit, Matt set his sights on becoming a special tactics officer (STO). The rigorous selection process happened the summer between his junior and senior year. Matt was prepared for selection in part from his experiences as a member of the Academy Sandhurst team which he joined freshman year. He was often pushing himself and his teammates through Army program screeners or monster mashes on the weekends. He became the Sandhurst team lead his senior year. After graduating from USAFA in 2010, Matt went on to the two-year training pipeline to become a STO. Matt rose to be the team leader of a 35-member group that included: combat control technicians (CCT), pararescuemen (PJ), tactical air control party members (TACP), and special operations weather team members (SOWT). Matt deployed with his team three times; twice to Afghanistan and once to Africa. Being a STO allowed Matt to do the things he loved most: enjoy the outdoors, listen to Taylor Swift, and most importantly, serve his country and protect the people he loved. Matt’s presence in life was so great that more than 1,000 family members, friends and teammates from around the country gathered on Sept. 14 for a memorial honoring him and his fallen comrade, SSgt Forrest Sibley, who was killed in the same attack.

Matt’s final resting place is at Arlington National Cemetery, where more than 100 of his family and friends attended his funeral on Sept. 18. Matt will forever live in the hearts of those he shared a smile with, both at home and throughout the world. Memorial contributions can be made in Captain Roland’s memory to the Combat Control Association http://usafcca.org. (Capt. Daniel Everett, friend and squadron mate)

Charles W. Cole, ATO Charles William Cole (Charlie) died peacefully at home on Aug. 8, 2015 in Tiburon, Calif. at the age of 85. Charlie was born in Peoria, Ill. on June 29, 1930 to Frances Irene Thorson and Harry Michael Cole.

He grew up in Glenview, Ill. and graduated in 1947 from Chicago’s Loyola High School where he varsity lettered in football and track, and was nationally recognized. He attended Marquette University before he received a congressional appointment from Illinois to the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland in 1949. Charlie was in the 6th Battalion at Annapolis and starred as a sprinter on the Navy track and field team. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1953 with a major in engineering.

Upon graduation, he joined the United States Air Force in Colorado Springs, Colo. in their new pilot training program. After he earned his wings, he was on the faculty of the Air Force Academy as an Air Training Officer (ATO) from 1955 to 1957. As a charter faculty member of the Academy he served as wing commander and as aide and special assistant to the superintendent, Maj. Gen. James Briggs. In 1956, Charlie met and married his first wife, Anne Leicham, from Merced, Calif. who was based in Denver with United Airlines with whom he had two children.

Charlie was then stationed overseas at Hickam AFB where he flew worldwide transport missions and was named outstanding aircraft commander. Charlie returned to Colorado where he received his master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Colorado in 1963. He was then assigned to the foreign technology division at Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio after two TDY assignments (Vietnam-1967) as Chief FTD Liaison to the commander, 7th AF. (He was Westmoreland’s personal pilot.) After five years he was then assigned to HQ Air Force Systems Command at Andrews AFB, Md. He received many awards during his service such as the Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Over the span of his 20-year military career, Charlie lived with his family in Hawaii, Colorado, Ohio and Maryland and they travelled extensively. Lieutenant Colonel Cole retired from the military in 1973 and moved to Tiburon, Calif. to be closer to his grown children and that’s where he remained for 42 years. He was predeceased by his first wife, Anne, in 1983 and by his second wife, Corliss Osborne White, in 2008. He kept active as an investor and money manager for the remainder of his life. Charlie had a gregarious personality, a love for travel and adventure, cherished his children and grandchildren and his fantastic panoramic view of the San Francisco Bay, which he never wanted to leave!

Charlie is survived by his son J. Michael Cole and Michael’s wife, Anna; his daughter Suzanne Cole Kohlberg and her husband, Jim; six grandchildren, including two sets of twins: Tom, Ryan and Kevin Cole of Los Altos/San Francisco, Calif., and Casey, Madeleine and Charlotte Kohlberg of Portola Valley, Calif.; and his siblings J. Steven, Thomas and Marylin Cole Kennedy; and his nieces Colleen Glander and Meghan Andersen, and nephew Eugene Kennedy.

Memorial services with full military honors were conducted at Golden Gate National Cemetery on Aug. 20, 2015 with interment following. (Suzanne Cole Kohlberg, Charlie’s daughter)

Rocco R. Falotico, ATO Maj. (USAF, Ret) Rocco R. Falotico was born on Nov. 16, 1933 and died June 3, 2015. He began his life in Portland Ore., born to Nicholas and Peggy Falotico. He attended Creston Grade School, which burned down during his tenure there eliciting the comment “every school kid’s dream” and went to Benson Polytechnic High School where he studied aviation. He was involved in many activities including Civil Air Patrol in which he earned his first stripe graduating in 1951.

Rock met his future wife, Jean, in Sunday school.

During his senior year Rock enlisted in the Air Force and asked Jean to accompany him to the recruiting center whereupon the recruiter inquired if his “girlfriend” would like to enlist too?

The answer was “No. I’m not his girlfriend”. His service in the Korean War changed that; they were married for 60 years.

Checkpoints · December 2015

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN After serving in Korea with the 1st Shoran Beacon Squadron, Rock was commissioned through the Cadet Program at Harlingen AFB, Texas. His first assignment was at the new Air Force Academy as an air training officer for the first class of cadets. The rest of his service was in MAC, SAC and TAC accumulating 5,000 flying hours as a navigator. He and his family were stationed in seven states and three years on Okinawa at Kadena.

Rock earned his bachelor of arts degree through Bootstrap at Park College in Missouri, eventually a master’s degree of science from Oregon State University and was a doctoral candidate at Portland State University working in the Energy Policy Workshop.

Rock retired at Mt. Home AFB, Idaho and became an executive for the Boy Scouts of America. The Seven Rivers district covered Ontario, Ore. where his family built their home. Rock helped establish a Sister City relationship with Sayama, Japan and the start of a Japanese garden. His interest also led him to become active in a political party.

For medical reasons and a desire to continue his education, Rock and Jean moved to the Willamette Valley finally settling in Wilsonville in 1988. Rock became a volunteer at Champoeg State Park eventually assuming the position of director of Volunteers. He was an Oregon Garden founder in Silverton, Ore. and served as founding chairman of his homeowners association.

Rock had many pastimes and hobbies throughout his life. His love of history, nature, and hiking were passed on to all of his sons. He was an avid reader, enjoyed crossword, Sudoku and jigsaw puzzles, playing Scrabble and Bridge, carving driftwood found on beaches and traveling. His favorite retreats were the Columbia Gorge and the shores of the Pacific.

Toward the end of his working years Rock found much satisfaction and enjoyment as a tutor for 5th through 12th grades.

Rocco is survived by his wife, Jean; son Rocco A. and his wife, Catherine; and daughters-in-law Yolanda and Lynndi. He was pre deceased by his two sons, Robert N. and Russel J. Falotico. Rock is also survived by eight grandchildren and one great grandchild.

“In the wee small hours of June 3, Rock took off on his last flight after a very full life, landing in Heaven to be with his two sons”. He was interred at Willamette National Cemetery facing east toward the Columbia Gorge. (Rocco A. Falotico, son)

AOG Written Obituary/Tribute Procedures Outlined

The Association of Graduates receives numerous questions concerning written obituaries/tributes in Checkpoints, specifically why some graduates do not have obituaries appear in the magazine.

The AOG procedure is once the details of a graduate or cadet death is verified, that notice is placed on the AOG website and listed in the next magazine’s “At Presstime” section. Shortly thereafter the President and CEO sends a condolence letter to the next of kin informing them that the obituary editor will be contacting them shortly for an obituary submission.

Next, the obituary editor sends a letter to the next of kin asking that they provide a writer for the obituary and a photograph of the deceased. The obituary is limited to 600 words maximum and a deadline for the next magazine is included.

If the obituary and photograph appear by the deadline and are within the parameters necessary for magazine publication, the obituary appears in the next magazine. If not, a second letter is sent to the next of kin after that magazine is published asking for the obituary and photograph again with a deadline for the next magazine. The next of kin is also notified in the second letter that this will be the last request for an obituary.

If the requested materials do not appear by the second deadline, no further action is taken and the obituary does not appear.

Gone But Not Forgotten Notifications

At press time we learned of the deaths of the following graduates and Air Training Officer: • Col. (Ret) Wayne C. Pittman, Class of 1959, who died on Oct. 1, 2015 in Beavercreek, Ohio.

• Col. (Ret) Dean C. Wood, Class of 1959, who died on Oct. 19, 2015 in San Antonio, Texas.

• Lt. Col. (Ret) Kenneth R. Johnson, Class of 1961, who died on Aug. 29, 2015 in Derby, Kans.

• Col. (Ret) Warren D. Snyder, Class of 1962, who died on Nov. 7, 2015 in Acworth, Ga. • Maj. (Ret) Charles C. “Chuck” Allen, Class of 1965, who died on Oct. 24, 2015 in Scottsdale, Ariz.

• Lt. Col. (Ret) James L. Beavers, Class of 1965, who died on Aug. 20, 2015 in Orlando, Fla. • Mr. James M. Ward nee Twardzik, Class of 1966, who died on Feb. 7, 2012 in Anaheim, Calif.

• Mr. Gregory F. Smith, Class of 1967, who died on Aug. 13, 2015 in Shamong, N.J. • Col. (Ret) Ernest M. “Ernie” Skinner, Class of 1969, who died on Oct. 16, 2015 in Tucson, Ariz.

• Lt. Col. (Ret) Channing S. Morse, Class of 1970, who died on Aug. 27, 2015 in Palmdale, Calif.

• Mr. Steven C. Riggs, Class of 1970, who died on Oct. 11, 2015 in Omaha, Neb. • Col. (Ret) James R. “Randy” Kalkman, Class of 1973, who died on Oct. 19, 2015 in Colorado Springs, Colo.

• Lt. Col. (Ret) James F. X. Shanley, Jr., Class of 1976, who died on Sept. 11, 2015 in Yorktown, Va. • Lt. Col. (Ret) Bret T. Wilson, Class of 1981, who died on Oct. 15, 2015 in Bonaire, Ga. • Mr. Matteo Fulton, Class of 1982, who died on Aug. 12, 2015 in Ft. Worth, Texas.

• Mr. Douglas B. McNary, Class of 1984, who died on Nov. 14, 2015 in Kansas City, Kans.

• Lt. Col. (Ret) Robert G. D’Antonio, Class of 1985, who died on Nov. 12, 2015 in Saint Jacob, Ill. • Mr. Robert B. “Luke” Lucas, Class of 1988, who died on Nov. 13, 2015 in Macon, Ga. • Capt. William D. Tolman, Class of 1995, who died on Dec. 14, 2012 in Draper, Utah.

• Maj. Jeffrey D. Percy, Class of 1997, who died on Aug. 16, 2012 in San Diego, Calif.

• Capt. Tobey R. Hockridge, Class of 2004, who died on Oct. 31, 2015 in Colorado Springs, Colo.

• Capt. Benjamin D. Meier, Class of 2005, who died on Sept. 29, 2015 in California.

• Capt. Jordan B. Pierson, Class of 2010, who died on Oct. 2, 2015 in a C-130 crash in Jalalabad, Afghanistan.

• Mr. James G. Cobb, Air Training Officer, who died on Oct. 6, 2015 in Elkhart, Ind. • Dr. John M. Snook, Air Training Officer, who died on Sept. 21, 2015 in Bartlesville, Okla.

Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of these graduates and Air Training Officers.

If you know of a graduate’s death, please notify the Association of Graduates by emailing customerservice@aogusafa.org or by calling (719) 472-0300. The AOG will then contact the next of kin and provide information on how to submit a Gone But Not Forgotten obituary to Checkpoints magazine. Due to editorial and print deadlines, please visit usafa.org for the most up to date information about graduate deaths.

100 · usafa.org

CLASS NEWS The past few months have been a bit stressful. I blame my personal unnamed gremlin who has been with me since pilot training where I was involved in a record number of emergencies. My T-33 IP picked up the nickname Mayday Reeves because of the record number of emergencies we declared. At first I didn’t know which one of us was the gremlin’s target but I had a major emergency on my first night solo so the ambiguity disappeared. The gremlin stayed with me in the operational Air Force. One Chief Master Sergeant once asked me if I was aware there was a competition among flight engineers to see who would fly with me. I asked if I was that bad. He said no, it was because I had the most interesting emergencies. As you know, gremlins are mischievous, not malicious.

I now believe they are not aviation critters but are naturally drawn to high technology. Mine now resides in my computers.

Our first news item concerns the exploits of the “Wizard of Manatee County” known to us as Sam Starrett. Sam was featured in the Bradenton Herald last month. Sam is a horticulture wizard who leads as many as 12 people on the Florida Extension Master Gardener Plant Identification Tour in the Robinson Preserve. The tour follows a 3-mile loop from the visitor’s center along Tampa Bay and a bit inland. At the beginning of the tour Sam advised his guests they will “ ...go to this salt marsh, then we hit a small uplands area, more salt marsh, then we have a mangrove forest, then here’s a coastal area and this area as we go down here is almost a desert, filled with cactus and plants that don’t need a lot of water.” His customers were quoted as saying Sam “…has become a highly popular tour guide because he is knowledgeable.” One surprising fact he passed on was that the Sea Grape leaves were once dried and could be written upon like parchment. In fact, the postal service would, and still does, accept them as post cards. When Sam and I were roommates I just thought of him as a wizard of languages; now I realize his skills are many and varied.

Good work Sam.

1959

The class flag at the Navy game tailgate.

Joe and Janet Morgan, in spite of a hurricane threat and heavy winds and rain, hosted a great minireunion at the Navy game. There was a nice balance of scheduled activities with time to update friendships and enjoy just being together again. The game was not the best but the tailgate was great. The Navy cheerleaders and their costumed mascot came by and spent

some time with us, even treating us with friendly (at least not hostile) cheers and stayed with us for a half hour or so. The Air Force cheerleaders also passed by but totally ignored the “historic first class”. Go figure. It was also fun when the midshipmen marched (?) past our tent and we 70- and 80-year-olds treated them to some 60-year-old AF cheers. Navy reactions were mixed but the AF exchange cadets seemed to enjoy it. After the game we gathered at the Navy Officer’s Club. The food and setting provided a great top-off to a wonderful weekend. Well done Joe and Janet.

The Navy cheerleaders perform at our tailgate.

The Josephsons recently returned from a trip to California where we attended a reunion of the 3rd ATS (Air Transport Squadron, later Military Airlift Squadron). The 3rd was my first operational assignment. We flew the C-124C Globemaster II. The 3rd was a very interesting unit for a newly-rated pilot.

When I got there I found they had not received a new pilot in about six years. They had just Members one copilot and he had over 84% 6,000 hours. The squadron commander wanted to have at least one copilot so they would not upgrade him. The horde of new pilots and navigators arrived over a period of about three months.

TB Johnson (also at the reunion Sabre Society with Elaine) Bill Toney, Dave Donors Shearin, Tom Ackers and yours 25 truly represented the Class of 1959. Most of us stayed with the squadron for at least three years and relationships became very strong. We flew together, bachelors got married, kids came along and many joys and stresses were shared. The bonds forged during those years remain strong as demonstrated by the large percentage of reunion attendees who are alumni of those years.

Before the reunion we went to Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks. After the reunion we visited Bo and Dianne Bobko for a couple days. I first met Dianne when she and Bo started dating at Lowery and Bo and I were roommates at Vance AFB. We have seen each other only at reunions since then so it was great to share some extended time.

While there we learned Bo had recently received a rare and special honor – he has been named the 7th Distinguished Member of the Association of Space Explorers. This recognition came during their six-week tour of the Baltic countries and Scandinavia culminating in a week in Sweden at the ASE Congress.

Bo’s STS-51-J patch.

The ASE was founded in 1985 by U.S., Russian and international fliers and now has about 400 members from 37 countries that have completed at least one orbit of the Earth in a spacecraft. Bo is a Director of the ASA-USA wing and served for 15 years as President of that wing. His membership qualifications include being the pilot for STS-6, the maiden space flight of Columbia, Mission Commander on the maiden flight of Atlantis (STS-51-J) and Commander of the Discovery (STS-51-D) on its second flight. With the flight on Discovery he became the first person to fly three shuttle missions. I recommend you check out Bo’s Wikipedia page (Karol J. Bobko) for more information.

Jim Reed has arranged for a mini-reunion headquartered at the Inn on the Lakes, Sebring, FL for 4 - 7 December. Activity choices include guided bass fishing on Lake Istokpoga, Historic Car Races at the Sebring International Raceway and a variety of possible side trips and air boat rides to visit osprey and alligator habitat. Most important is the opportunity to once again be with old friends to get updated and share memories. Contact Jim if you want further information.

Thought for the quarter: “When half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get what they work for, that my dear friend, is the beginning of the end of any nation. You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it.”

--Adrian Pierce Rogers –Ed Josephson, 23 Old Gordon Road, Brentwood, NH 03833; H: (603) 778-1495 Cell: (603) 770-6003; Josephson@comcast.net; Facebook page: USAFA Class of 1959.

The dominant theme for this issue of class news is reunions (both large and small) – and final goodbyes. Concurrent with the activities of the our 55th reunion were two interment services at the Academy Cemetery: one for George Fries on the 1st of October and the other for Tom Seebode the following day. These beautiful and moving ceremonies were a fitting reminder of the lifelong bonds we have with our classmates and the sense of loss we feel when any one of us takes that final flight.

1960

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 101

CLASS NEWS

Our 55th Reunion formally kicked off on Thursday, 1 Oct 2015, at the Embassy Suites. The theme was “A Time to Remember,“ and the reunion itself will be remembered as a great success. Fifty-eight classmates were officially in attendance, and Bill Hodson and Miles Kaspar put in brief appearances (making an appropriate total of 60). Also represented were Art Lewis by his wife, Patricia, and George Luck by his wife, Carolyn, and son Mike. In addition to the 100+ at the reunion, the families of George Fries and Tom Seebode were present for at least a portion of the weekend for the respective interment ceremonies. A full roster of attendees and guests and reunion photos can be found on our class website.

Andi Biancur and Jock Members Schwank and their COS colleagues 89% and wives provided us with a well-thought-out program of activities for Friday and Saturday, augmented by gracious home gatherings hosted by Jim and Jenny Glaza and Jack and Elaine Brush.

Friday‘s activities kicked off with Sabre Society presentations in Arnold Hall that Donors brought us up to speed with UE/ 21 AOG issues, the new UAS-RPA piloting program, and a new cyber innovation center/laboratory that will feature the integration of full-time cyber scientists with like-minded cadets to push the envelope of the emerging field of cyber warfare. An Honor presentation by Honor Chairman C/1C Olson was very well received by our group. A key issue was that of a six-month probation period for some “admitting” first-time offenders. Given the stringent and rigorous requirements for reintegration into the Cadet Wing, there seemed to be a general consensus that the Honor program was on the right track.

The day‘s program concluded with presentations

by Mortuary Affairs and the new Center for Character & Leadership Development (CCLD). It is at the CCLD where the Academy seeks “to elevate and integrate character and leadership development, both conceptually and structurally throughout the entire USAFA experience.” The day‘s formal agenda concluded with our stirring traditional Memorial Service presented by Jim Waddell and Wayne Kendall – followed by the everpopular Class Photo jointly executed by Les Querry and JT Smith. They also did the photo processing during the game.

102 · usafa.org

The rather busy day concluded with a sit-down dinner and class meeting where we distributed embossed Remembrance Books with comments from all classmates in attendance, to honor Col Ben Cassidy and Rosie Cler for their contributions to our Class heritage. The Cassidy book will be hand delivered to him in Honolulu by a delegation from the class. Gordy Flygare provided several cases of excellent wines.

Saturday followed a more relaxed agenda. A major highlight of the reunion was a personalized tour that morning of the Southeast Asia Memorial Pavilion on the Heritage Trail, led by Ron Yates. Ron was instrumental in the creation and installation of the awe-inspiring sculpture “Honor Bound: A Portrait of Courage” which was recently installed in the pavilion to honor the 33 Academy graduates who endured terrible years as POWs. The pavilion also contained a big surprise for Jerry de la Cruz. He was shocked to see that his narrative of his Vietnam experience from our website was included in one of the touch screen displays within the pavilion.

Later in the day there was a football tailgate event in the Stadium Press Box. which brought us together to consume copious quantities of food and drink and watch the AF-Navy game on TVs. The last time we did something like this as a group was in 1958 when the Wing monitored the AF-Stanford game in Fairchild Hall (voice only, no TV) and piped cheers from the auditorium to loud-speakers on the sidelines of Stanford Stadium.

Some Commentaries on the 55th. “A great reunion and wonderful experience enjoying ‘old‘ classmates who are, sadly, getting fewer,” said Dale Thompson, “well organized and great briefings – much better than the Academy brass with their standard statements.” Al Johnson: “Great in all respects. One major problem – ran out of chocolate chip cookies at the stadium press box – otherwise a Gold Oscar..” “Great time with classmates I haven‘t seen since graduation telling war stories,,” wrote Vic Thomas, “already looking forward to our 60th.” “As the wife of a ’60’ Grad, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing all the other wives who have weathered all or part of these 55 years. Their faces bring back so many happy memories” – Connie Yates. Wayne Kendall: “As the years pass behind us, I now feel closely attached to every member of the class – we are now all ‚old‘ friends.” “The 55th was a welcome renewal of great friendships and a stimulator of wonderful memories of shared experiences,” wrote Brian and Carol Kaley.

Mercedes Thompson said “Fantastic work, wonderful people, great kindness! Thanks, merci, danke, obrigado, arigato, gracias.”

Other Class news. Earl Van Inwegen was recently featured in an issue of the Air Commando Journal in an article about the C-123 Providers in the 1964-66 buildup in Vietnam. The article discusses the myriad of missions the intrepid “trash haulers” performed and described one hairy mission (for which Earl and his crew were awarded the DFC) where ground and mortar fire blew out both nose tires and riddled their aircraft with over 20 holes. Earl now resides in Miramar, CA and remains active in Daedalian and community affairs. Other classmates who flew the C-123 during the early phases of “our” war included Val Bourque, Grant Waugh, Tony Burshnick, Bill Gillis, JT Smith, Brian Deem, Ron Deep, Ted Stumm, Dave Sweigart, Jim Bujalski, Aaron Thrush, and Nels Delisanti, plus Bob Fischer and Michael J. Clarke (Ranch Hand). Also Oogie Prindle crewed the C-123 as a Nav. In August 2014, Reb Guillot ventured to Offutt AFB (where son Greg commanded the 55th Wing) and proudly watched General Lori Robinson promote Greg to Brigadier General. His stars were pinned on by his family, who he credits with his success. He’s now the Director of Strategic Plans, Requirements and Programs at PACAF Headquarters. “It‘s great to have a military GO in the family,” said Reb, “as long as I don’t have to call him ‘Sir!’” RG Head, Coronado‘s 2014 “Man of the Year” is not letting any grass grow under his feet. In addition to racing sailboats on a weekly basis, RG and Carole joined classmates on a river trip from Amsterdam to Vienna in May. Then off to school at Oxford University in August, followed by a trip to Aachen where they visited the Luftwaffe’s Tactical Air Force Wing 31

“Boelcke,” named after the World War I ace who was von Richthofen‘s instructor in fighter tactics. The visit to the Wing was the byproduct of a book RG is writing, whose working title is Oswald Boelcke and the Blue Max. Don Stevens, reporting from our Class of ’60 outpost along the Penobscot Bay in Mid-Coast Maine, regrets that he was unable to attend the 55th Reunion, but he will be at the Academy in November with his sons to partake in a ceremony, sponsored by the class of ’70, honoring graduates who have received the Air Force Cross. “There were 16 graduates so decorated and nine still living,” Don says, “I am honored to be included in that group.”

From former Army Captain and DC group regular Bill Hockenberry: “I am still holding that thin line between workplace chaos and labor-management tranquility as a seasoned labor arbitrator. It is one of the few professions where you are selected by the parties based on the silver color of your hair; which is to say, ‘geez, that guy is so old he must know something.’

Guess I will keep working and fool them all.”

Our champion airlift hitchhiker Ralph Lalime has made his way to Hawaii this September and will stay there until it’s time to return home to harvest some deer in his backyard. His mini-reunion was in Colorado Springs with former members of the 525th F-4 Fighter Squadron (Bitburg). He was also able to break bread with some of the COS gang, noting that that healthy bunch looked much younger than the time-worn DC group.

Jon McClure (shown here with Howie Whitfield and Dave Sweigart) still serves as a highly respected public defender in Moultrie, GA. His next trial will be a murder case. His defense strategy will be selfdefense – his client shot a drug dealer. “Deserves a medal!,” Jon says.

Class of ’60 Roll Call: 227 graduated, 67 deceased, 160 hanging tough.

–Ken Alnwick, 2403 Arrow Park Drive, Alexandria, VA 22306; (703) 768-8280; kjalnwick@cox.net; Class Website : www.usafaclasses.org/1960/afa60.html C-123s in Southeast Asia reunion.

A reunion for all variants of the C-123 used in SEA is being planned for April 4-8, 2016 in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida. The gathering is for any American, Coast Guard, VNAF or civilian (Air America) who were aircrew, ground crew, support, or admin for any of the C123 units in Southeast Asia. Visit http://www.c123sinsea.org for sign-up and more information. The Best Western Ft. Walton Beachfront is reunion headquarters.

Questions? Email ricepad13@gmail.com.

We lost two members of our ’61 family this quarter: Jeri Fullerton and Ken Johnson.

Jerilyn Fullerton (Bettinger), Ron’s wife, succumbed to liver cancer on 19 August after a short battle.

Her son, Robert Aaron Fullerton, and parents preceded her in death.

Besides Ron, daughter Robyn, two grandchildren, and her brother survive. During the final season of her life, Jeri scattered seeds of kindness by giving pocket angels (coin-size) to virtually everyone she met. Her words of God’s amazing love along with the angel tokens made a huge difference to each recipient. The family asks that any donations be made to either the Tucson Community Food Bank (communityfoodbank.org) or Jesus in Vietnam Mission (jesusinvietnam.com) Kenneth R. Johnson passed away on 29 August, following a year of failing health. His military decorations during his 24 years in the Air Force included the Silver Star. Ken’s two combat tours in Vietnam ended when he was shot down and subsequently spent 453 days as a prisoner of war. His older brother said that Ken loved airplanes, and flying was all he ever wanted to do. The next issue of Checkpoints should include his obituary.

Mark said that it has been a fairly quiet summer for the Andersons. They spent 10 days in Scandinavia on a Stockholm to Oslo cruise and attended a 36th Fighter Wing reunion in Colorado Springs, but otherwise stayed close to home. Our San Antonio ’61 contingent gained another member with the arrival of Doug and Dee Cairns, so they’re now back to six (Cairns, Freeman, Smith, Ulm, Wild and Mark). They continue to enjoy a monthly lunch together.

Stu and Marnie Boyd formally met the “new bird in the neighborhood.” The F-35 was formally welcomed to Hill AFB. It is hard to believe that the pilot flying this thing wears a helmet that costs a half million dollars – probably more than the T-33 that many of us learned to fly in. It was a good show, complete with a P-38 and F-35 flying in formation -- Lightning One and Two. Pat and Marilyn Buckley joined 53 others attending the Bud and Carolyn McCollum-organized minireunion, 21-23 July in Santa Fe, NM. Bud and Carolyn hosted an enjoyable local cuisine dinner at their lovely home. The next day was a Trolley Tour of Santa Fe and dinner at a local restaurant. The third day everyone had a choice of visiting an amazing collection of frontier weapons and tools or taking a shopping tour of Santa Fe. About half then attended an alfresco dinner and presentation of the opera Salomé, organized

by PB O’Connor. It was a very enjoyable reunion and kudos to Bud and Carolyn.

On the way to the mini-reunion, the Buckleys visited Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands for a few days. After Santa Fe, they drove north for four days of whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Rio Chama and the Rio Grande, “The Racetrack” between Taos and Santa Fe. After visiting Pat’s daughter, husband and their two children in Boston for a week, they flew to Shoreham-by-Sea for the birth of Marilyn’s fourth grandchild. Subsequent to their visit with Marilyn’s 95-year-old mother and other family and friends in the vicinity of Brighton, UK, they went to their Spanish home in Velez-Malaga for a month. They planned to

1961

return to Florida courtesy of USAF/USN space-A travel from Rota, Spain.

Doug and Dee Cairns completed their downsizing and move to San Antonio, TX, from Montgomery, AL. A cash offer for their house by in-a-hurry buyers made the move fast and furious. They are settled into the Army Residence Community, a continuing care retirement community halfway between Randolph AFB and Ft. Sam Houston. Despite its Army name, the ARC’s resident population is more than half Air Force retirees. Doug has already made it to two of the monthly ’61 Gray Tag get-togethers with Marcus Anderson, Jim Ulm, Larry Freeman, Jim Wild and Richard Smith.

Bob Kellock and Samantha Carlson enjoyed their trip to Hawaii for the Transpac Race finishes and the wonderful Santa Fe mini-reunion. They stayed an extra three days with the Marines at MCB Kanehoe on Oahu to locate Samantha’s uncle’s grave in the Punch Bowl. They made an August visit to Bob’s roots in Henderson Harbor, NY, on Lake Ontario, and ended up sailing the days away on the wonderful fresh water. Samantha had free access to a Sunfish, and Bob got to crew for the son of a departed Members friend on a classic Shields 30’ 88% Chris Craft daysailer, winning the Henderson Harbor Yacht Club’s Commodore’s Cup. Several childhood friends rescheduled their summer so they could play once more with Bob and others as they did when they were Sabre Society teenagers. Bob and Samantha Donors still plan to get to their home in 13 Patagonia, AZ, after they slow down on volunteer activities at the VA and local yacht clubs, most likely by Thanksgiving and the winter holidays.

Hector Negroni said that many of their activities revolved around family visits to enjoy their five grandkids. He also reported on the 15 September luncheon of the Class of 1961 DC Bunch at the Springfield Country Club, where Charley Dixon is a member. Bill Foster briefed the Ops Plan for the Air Force-Navy game and the post-game Victory Party that he and Theda were hosting in their home. The ladies in attendance included Joan Kohout and Diane McDonough. The “men” included Spike Nunn, Bill Foster, John Kohout, Bill Stackhouse, John Sullivan, Hector Negroni, Charley Dixon, and Jack McDonough.

The advance party of the Class of 1961 for the AF/ Navy game met at the Mexican r estaurant “Chevys” in Falls Church, VA, to discuss pre-game activities. The weather was lousy but the company was extraordinary, and the food was great. Attending were Charley Dixon, Bill and Theda Foster, Gene and Judy Davis, Hector and Joan Negroni, and Jack and Diane McDonough.

After the disastrous game against Navy, Bill and Theda Foster hosted a Victory/Losers Party. Bill and Theda arranged great drink and food for the returning warriors. Attendees included the hosts, Hector and Joan Negroni, Gene and Judy Davis, John and Joan Kohout, John Sullivan, Bill Stackhouse, Terry Storm, and Charley Dixon.

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 103

CLASS NEWS Fifty-five years after the Mule Team’s valiant but fruitless effort, Jerry Mason finally got him! This capture happened at the Army-Eastern Michigan game, which Jerry and his son Jeff attended to witness Jeff’s housekeeper being inducted into the Army at halftime. Earlier in the day, they and Jeff’s two sons were in the Big House, enjoying the University of Michigan’s 31-0 destruction of #22 ranked BYU. (Unfortunately, Jerry was able to “harness” only the “pretend” mule mascot.)

Traveling season was good for Byron Theurer and Pat Pilcher. First, they spent 16 days on Oahu and Maui, staying at Fort De Russy’s Hale Koa hotel and hitting all the tourist spots. In addition, they visited The Punchbowl and saw Teney Takahashi’s final resting place.

Hint: The Punchbowl is fairly difficult to navigate to.

Other pilgrims are encouraged to take a GPS navigator with them. Their second tour for the season was a sentimental journey back to coastal California to visit three of By’s old chums: one each from grade school, high school, and the test pilot school. Do they look old!

Since tourist season is over for the year, Pat returned to her reading, and By went back to his war-gaming.

Ad Thompson had an interesting month, September into October, in central Europe. They visited Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Prague, Cologne, and ended up in Amsterdam. The weather was good; only one day of light rain and a few days that were cold. The food was wonderful and the wine and beer even better.

The history and architecture are amazing; with some structures going back to the 12th century still being used. They visited some really great museums and historic palaces that would make even Donald Trump’s projects pale in comparison. It’s also interesting how nowadays many people, especially the younger ones, in the six countries that they visited speak pretty good English. Ad looked for, but could not find, any evidence of the Syrian refugees while traveling. They had to come home though as they ran out of clean clothes.

After all the rain in South Carolina, Nelson asked Kay Woelfel how she had fared. She said that although Mt. Pleasant had a record 26.6” rain in two days, she stayed high and dry. Mt. Pleasant was mostly spared, with only a few road closings for a time. All was back to normal. Otherwise, she was well, doing some traveling, and watching her grandchildren grow up, with many attending and graduating from colleges across the Midwest. Her oldest grandson and his wife are expecting her first great-grandchild soon. She was surprised to discover when she moved into her townhouse last year that her neighbors are Don Wolfswinkel (’60) and his wife. Small world.

Teri and Nelson O’Rear enjoyed a great two-day visit with Don and Peg Danborn in October. The Danborns were taking a road trip to Atlanta to see their newest grandchild, stopping to see several friends along the way, including the O’Rears. Don and Nelson roomed together during their 4th Class year. In September, Nelson and John Gross (’65) attended the AF/Michigan State football game in East Lansing. The MSU fans provided a very welcoming environment for the AF and its fans. Unfortunately, neither the weather nor the final score favored us. After the game, John and Nelson got together for burgers with Nelson’s grandson, who is a freshman at MSU. Thanks to all who contributed. If you have not done 104 · usafa.org

so in the last year, plan to do so soon, even if only a line or two. We are all interested.

To read a more detailed version of the above, which includes more inputs and pictures, go to https://www. dropbox.com/s/oe5yruois7p0t4n/2015%20October%20Checkpoints%20Final%20Draft%2C%201961. pdf?oref=e&n=48637183. (You do not have to sign up for Dropbox to view it.)

–Earl N. “Nelson” O’Rear, 50582 Stonington Drive, Granger, IN 46530-8243; (574) 273-2597; Email: enoandtjo@gmail.com Hello, Redtags. Well, it’s 72 degrees here in Satellite Beach, FL. I’m so glad the weather is cooling off.

Now for news.

First from Rick Perlotto: I spent four days with E.C Newman celebrating life, drinking wine, telling war stories (TINS). We all met for dinner at a mid-point. On the return, George Thompson accompanied E.C. and me to Banner Elk for another couple of days of celebration, wine, and listening to George’s solutions to the Middle East – a simple plan… executed violently. Regards brothers, Rick.”

1962

From left are Pete Bobko, Bob Baxter, George Thompson, E.C.Newman, Dick Parker and Rick Perlotto.

Second dispatch was also from Rick Perlotto. “Tuck McAtee and I met at OSHKOSH last month. Here’s a photo of Tuck’s aircraft in RTB colors and LOGO. (Note: photo not included due to column limits.) Tuck finished 3rd in the race to OSHKOSH. First place went to a “pro” in a souped-up version of the class aircraft. Second was only a couple of minutes ahead of Tuck. Tuck’s aircraft is BEAUTIFUL! Regards brothers. Rick.”

This one came from Stan and Mary Ann Patrie.

“Hi Jack, I’ve got an ‘It’s a small world’ story to share with you. Mary Anne and I took the family, all nine of us, on an Alaskan cruise this July. While we were in Haines AK, we took a three-hour raft trip thru the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. After the rafts were hauled out, we were warming up while waiting for our bus to take us back to civilization. I overheard the guide on one of the other rafts talking about the Academy. How many Academy grads are wilderness raft guides? So I said “are you an RTB?” After he did a spit take with his coffee, he turned around. Sure enough, it was Nels Niemi. I’ve enclosed a picture of the Northernmost RTB mini reunion. Nels is the one on the left. Cheers, Stan” What a coincidence. I hope he is still enjoying the guide business. He looks just like he did at our reunion a few years ago.

Nels and Stan From Don Shepperd: “Tim Gilmartin was honored as the winner of the yearly Paul Bryant Award for his 1936 Cord at the Art of the Car Concours show in Kansas City – a BIG deal – the award is for best overall marque in the Auburn-Cord-Dusenberg class – the trophy is almost as big as the car. Tim is a real car buff.”

Note: I didn’t understand some of the jargon but the award sounds impressive. Way to go, Tim. From Ted Dykes: “Our daughter became a widow three years ago. She married Col. John Ziegler, Class of ‘86 at the Academy Chapel on July 18. Tammy and John were in the 5th and 6th grades together in Minnesota. Then we moved to Maryland and John’s family moved to Colorado. Tammy and John dated some during their college years but the distance was too great and they eventually married other mates. A year after Tammy’s husband died, Tammy and John started dating and last September, they decided to get married at the Academy Chapel in August 2015. The photo is of Three Grads and Three Brides: Members Ted Dykes ‘62, Marcy Dykes, Col. 77% John Ziegler, ‘86, Tammy Ziegler, Rose Shepperd, and Maj Gen Don Shepperd, ‘62. (Photo not included: column limits.)

And from Paul Landers: “Jack, Moody AFB UPT class 64-A gathered in September for its biennial Sabre Society reunion, this time at the Opryland Donors Hotel in Nashville. Between golf, 19 riverboat cruises, tours, and great meals, we OD’d on country music at the Opry and in the many music bars downtown.

It was a wonderful time. Some of the RTBs could not make the event, but here’s a photo of those who could: Keighery, Harrison, Hendryx, and Landers. (Photo not included – column limits) My best to you and your family. Paul” Chet Griffin did a good resume of a party in Williamsburg. “Sure, Jack, this was a mini-reunion of the expanded DC area RTBs. Last year we had it at Bob and Susan Lightsey’s (as it will be next year) and Tuck McAtee sorta volunteered our Williamsburg Detachment to do the one this fall. Jack and Jean Geiger and Tuck and Ann McAtee hosted, and it couldn’t have been any nicer! Lanny Lancaster, bless his heart, provided plenty of fine wine, even though he could not make the event. Those who were able to come in on

Friday had the opportunity to go to Langley for an F-22 Q&A and flight-line tour hosted by Col. Patrick ‘Bear’ McAtee (’92), Tuck’s son, of the Virginia ANG.

From left are Chet Griffin, Art Farrington, Tuck McAtee, George Lyddane, Scott Fisher, Roger Rhoades and TK Moore.

“After the tour/briefings, we adjourned to the F-22 Ops building, home of the 94th FS, ‘Hat in the Ring’ squadron, for fortified refreshments and war stories. After an exhilarating experience through ‘get out of town’ traffic heading back to Williamsburg, we rendezvoused at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern for an authentic colonial dinner, complete with body napkins the size of small table cloths.

“Saturday evening, Jack and Jean Geiger opened their beautiful home for dinner. Chet’s slide show of ‘long ago in RTB land’, Lanny’s wine and a war story or two capped off a memorable weekend with the weather near perfect. Chet.”

Art Farrington provided more words for the Williamsburg party. “Many thanks to our Williamsburg Detachment for a superb hosting achievement; would hate to follow their act! Looking forward to next year! Art and Sandy.”

Got this one last week from Mike Quinton just before my deadline: “ Judy and I just got back from a week in Colorado (Denver and Colo Spgs) which included the AFA - Wyoming football game and pre game party at Jurassic Park, the venue for the classes of ‘59 thru ‘62 to get together before the football games at Falcon Stadium. The game was an 8:15 pm kickoff so attendance was limited. Redtags and spouses in attendance were: (Judy and me), Jerry and Freddie Smith, Erv and Pam Rokke, Bob and Jenny McNaughton, George and Janice Larson and Jim and Penny Mack. All seemed to be well. Sorry I didn’t get a picture. Cheers! Mike Quinton” I emailed him immediately to ask if he was doing well. “Yes, I am well. What are you doing up this time of night?” It was about 1 or 2 in the morning. Oh Well.

And this last item from my old roommate in 4th Sq, Charlie Price. “ Mary Jo and I celebrated our 50th in August by cruising New England and Canada on Holland America. By the way, I do enjoy all the pics you forward from Joel.” Note: Joel is a friend who lives in the area and takes gorgeous wildlife bird pictures. He’s retired from NASA Safety. Let me know if any of you want to get on my mailing list.

That’s it. Cheers and beers to all. I’m only allowed three pictures for the column. Jack –John W. “Jack” Jamba, 4 Judy Court, Satellite Beach, FL 32937; Home: (321) 777-5520; Office: (321) 861-6279; Cell: (321) 432-1370; Email: jwjamba@aol.com

Les Denend wrote: “Following a short but very nicely done ceremony (the flowers we are holding were from the ceremony) to honor all veterans visiting that day, the five of us and spouses spread out to pay private respects and come to grips with the impact of the nearly ten thousand markers of the American soldiers buried there. Later we visited Omaha Beach.

We all walked down to the water—it was about midtide similar to the conditions on D-day—and looked back at the imposing cliffs just behind the beach. I walked 221 steps from the water’s edge to the beginning of the upslope to the cliffs, a very tough assignment I thought under fire.”

1963

August 18, 2015 at Omaha Beach, Normandy. From left are Les Denend, Doug Hardgrave, Cy Rickards, Bud Gilligan and Jim Butt.

After attending the Blackbird reunion held in Reno in June, Jim Wilson reflected on memories and challenges faced when he wrote “You may or may not recall that I was selected for the SR-71 program in mid 1972 and checked out in the spring of 1973 at Beale AFB. On the occasion of my first Mach 3 flight in Feb 1973 I was presented with a Mach 3 pin by the 9th SRW Vice Wing Commander Colonel Pat Halloran. The much cherished pin is given by Lockheed Aircraft Corp in the name of the SR designer Kelly Johnson. Per SOP my family was invited to attend the short presentation; lots of smiles and happiness but no speeches. I’ve proudly worn that pin on my lapel for 42 years while attending many memorable events.

It is irreplaceable. That fact is well known from the start. Don’t lose it. You only get one and they can’t be purchased.”

“The black and white picture is from Feb 1973 at Beale AFB at planeside right after landing. In the 1973 photo Colonel Pat Halloran is the presenter. Jim’s wife, Rachael, and their children at the time (left to right) Richard, Jim, Susan and Russ were present. Son Ryan was born at Beale and not in the photograph. At the June 2015 Blackbird Reunion in Reno (42 years later) were Jim, Rachel, three of their children, Richard, Jim and Russ and MGen Pat Halloran (USAF retired).

Daughter Susan and son Ryan were unable to attend due to work.

“Lastly, my most memorable SR-71 flight occurred in Nov 1973 when I was fortunate enough to be one of the few selected to fly in the Yom Kippur War. Takeoff Members was from Griffiss AFB NY to 82% and over the battle lines in the Sinai, the Suez Canal and the Golan Heights and return for a landing at Seymour Johnson in NC (12,181 miles, 5 air refuelings, 10 hours 49 minutes.). I wrote a short 4-page story on the flight.

Sabre Society If any classmates would like to Donors read it, they can send me an 24 email and I will reply with the text (jrwilson@surewest.net).

Mini-Reunion 2015 (summary thanks to Jimmie Butler): The cup-turning ceremony normally occurs in Arnold Hall by the cup cabinet after the football game. However, the USAFA/San Jose State football game wasn’t scheduled to kick off until after 8 p.m., and Arnold Hall had a wedding anyway. This year, on Saturday afternoon, we held the event at the Eisenhower Golf Course with Bill Ball serving as Master of Ceremonies for the turning of four cups. The cups for each of our classmates were turned with Bob Desanto

by Bill Ball, David Dougan by John Heimburger, Hugh Webb by Dave Nuss and Bud West by Jim Kuhn.

Following the cup turning, Jim Fain led the ceremonial toast and salute to the four. Butch Verdier closed with a reading of a verse or two of the 144th Psalm.

When I first walked in to the venue the sight of Gordon Bredvik standing and visiting with people as they arrived was astonishing. As most of you know, he was severely injured in a tractor accident on his ranch in late June. I was thrilled to see him smiling and in great

Jim receiving coveted Mach 3 Pin in 1973; and 42 years later!

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 105

CLASS NEWS you’ll keep seeing different pictures of the same people. I know it’s a great-looking group, but we do have classmates other places.]

Old Trolls in Castle Rock.

2015 Mini Line-up. From left seated are Bill Ball, Jim Hauser, Larry Thacker, Dave Nuss, Gary Bender, Rod Johnson, Jimmie Butler, Jim Kuhn, Roy Marshall, Jack Martinez, and DeVere Hendrson. Standing: John Helinski, JJ Kennedy, Butch Verdier, Bob Hall, Bob Hayes, Mike Cristie, Randy Reynolds, Bob Lorenz, Bob Donovan, Ed Reisdorf, John Heimberger, Jim Fain, Bill Browning, Jay Miller, John Shmoldas, Gordon Bredvick, Ev Vaughn, Skip Lee, Drue DeBerry, Phil Tate, and Gil Merkle. Not pictured in the line-up but present was Roger Zoeller. spirits. Many thanks to Bill Browning for taking the initiative to get a block of tickets for the game so most of the attendees didn’t end up scattered all over Falcon Stadium in groups of ones and twos.

Jim Gaston, Dick Shutack, and Fran Porch joined us on Friday night at the Villa Restaurant in Palmer Lake. While at the Villa Restaurant Randy Reynolds and I had a pleasant conversation about a book he wrote that was promoted on the Amazon Kindle site.

The book’s title is TEN YEARS FLYING THE F-105. In the book Randy tells some splendid stories and he manages to make us feel like we are right there in the cockpit.

Endowment Report: Diff writes “Our class Endowment has disbursed $10,732 each to the CCLD and COH. Additionally, our Fund paid the cost of the new plaque near the Heritage Display ($487); incidental expenses to maintain the class website ($133); and, as per our MOU with the AOG, we reimbursed the AOG ($1,500) for the USAFA Class Histories Project. A more detailed 2015 year-end report will be included in the Spring Checkpoints column.”

Pete Ognibene reported on the successful introduction of a USAFA License Plate in Virginia. His note said “We had a number of false starts over the years, but this time the AOG carried the ball across the goal line. The Commonwealth of Virginia now has a USAFA license plate—mine arrived about a week ago. You can view it by going to the Class Web Page (http:// www.usafa63.org ) in the Newsletter Section.

Speaking of the Website, Lou Matjasko reminds us that you can continue to put items on your part of the Class History page and update existing inputs.

Contact Lou or Gil Merkle.

Follow-up on the JFK Graduation Speech: Gary Bender alerted us to a new USAFA recruiting video posted on the Academy Facebook page. The voice over is by our 500th classmate.” Click on https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=fRRH1Yla7EQ. Again, we have reached the enforced end to this Class News effort. It has been a privilege and apologies to those who sent inputs that did not make it to 106 · usafa.org

the final cut. There will be more opportunities so please keep sending your thoughts and pictures. Have a happy and safe holiday season.

– Norman I. “Skip” Lee, 63119 E Cat Claw Lane, Tucson, AZ 85739-2058; Home: (520) 825-7980; Cell: (520) 241-3498; 54wrs63@gmail.com; Class Web Site: www.usafa63.org Every 50 Years or So: For those of you who haven’t contacted your Scribe in the last 50 years, there’s hope. I just received the following from Bill Helmich: “This is the first time I have communicated with you. I was in Colorado the 27th of September through the 4th of October. I drove up from New Mexico and drove by the Academy. I received my issue of Checkpoints today, which prompted me to email you.

“The reason I drove to Colorado was to Coach the U.S. team in the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) ‘World Masters Powerlifting Championships.’ I also competed in the Masters 4, 105 kg (231 lb) weight class. This was my third year as the Masters Team Head Coach and for the first time we swept every division -- both men and women.

This was my 10th Masters World Championship competition dating back to 2004 and I won my 9th World Championship. Hopefully I will be able to continue competing on an International level.”

That’s great news, Bill. We have several classmates that compete in various sports, but I haven’t heard of any who have won a World Championship!

Old Trolls: The Old Trolls met again at the Red Robin in Castle Rock. Doug Jenkins wrote that it was a jolly group and a good time was had by all. Fred Malmstrom’s trusty camera provided the picture.

From left are Tom Jobin, Rod Wells, Roger Neeland, Claude Billings, Howie Cohen, DJ Alberts, Fred Malmstrom, Doug Jenkins, Tom Morris and Jim Johnson. [Scribe Note: If you don’t send pictures,

1964

At the lunch, Rod Wells gave an update on the Center for Character and Leadership Development.

Apparently, it will not be opening this fall as originally expected. There is also mention of the CCLD, now referred to as Polaris Hall, in an article in the September 2015 Checkpoints by the Superintendent, but no dedication date has been set.

Doug reported that he and Jackie attended a 50th Anniversary celebration for Bill and Jan Sakahara in Tustin, CA on September 19th. He said it was a wonderful gathering of family Members and friends and that classmate 80% Jim Stewart and wife, Nancy, were also there.

Roger Neeland reported that half a dozen classmates are planning to cruise Europe next summer on Viking Cruise Lines. If anyone is interested in Sabre Society joining that group [Amsterdam to Donors Budapest], please contact Roger 44 at 719-260-9538.

[Scribe Note: Sandy and I will miss that one, because we’re going to New Zealand instead. Lots of travelling in the Class of ’64!]

Sad News: Usto Schultz came across a notice on the AOG site saying that Tom Hill passed in August.

He was to be interred at Ft. Sill National Cemetery.

The family has suggested that donations be sent to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation; 110 E 42nd St, 16th Floor; New York, NY 10017 www. alzinfo.org/donate.

That’s All for Now: It’s the time of the year when everyone regroups after summer, so no one is tuned in to a magazine that will be published in the winter.

It makes it easy on me, because I don’t have to edit things down, but I really don’t mind, so don’t use that as a reason for not writing. (Email is very easy!)

Congratulations again to Bill Helmich for being a World Champion in the World Masters Powerlifting Championships!

–Bob Hovde, 206 Walker Ave., Huntsville, AL 35801; Home: (256) 532-3923; Mobile: (256) 348-9794; bob@ hovde.us

1965

From Wayne G. Brown, “Marty and I celebrated our 50th Wedding Anniversary with a renewal of vows ceremony in the Protestant Cadet Chapel on June 9, 2015.

“Chaplain Capt Jason Gunnels conducted a wonderful ceremony and presented us with a translucent blue brick that had been replaced during repair of the steeple structure. We have now been full time residents of The Villages, Florida, a retirement community, for over 4 years. This is an absolutely amazing place with 12 Championship Golf Courses, 33 nine-hole Executive Golf Courses where residents play free for life, and over 70 swimming pools. We live on the #3 tee box of an Executive Course. It is a very friendly to military veterans place to live with over 20 military-related clubs. I am in my fourth year as President of the Lake & Sumter Counties Chapter of MOAA, a 5-Star Chapter, which has been a real honor for me to serve. Looking forward to seeing everyone at the reunion.”

to come to Colorado for the holidays because Dad had been called back to active duty with the Air Force due to the Berlin Crisis.

“In the ensuing years, Ed and Barbara’s home was our home.

They also adopted Lee’s future wife, Terry, after she moved to Colorado Springs to keep an eye on Lee. And their living room was Members where the three of us and Dave 78% Nolting were sworn in shortly after midnight on June 9th. They also served as Cadet Sponsors for my brother Rod (’79), Lee’s son Kelly (’90), and my son Chris (’01). I think there was also some EI (Extra Instruction, for those Sabre Society of you with foggy memories) Donors provided by said Chem professor 33 on a number of occasions.

“By the way – Ed was the lead navigator (at 19 years old) on a B-24 raid that flew the first attack on Japanese-held Taipei during WWII. Ginny and I were also privileged to join Ed and Barbara at their 65th wedding anniversary celebration in February 2013. The Alton and McAlear families have certainly been blessed by this special Air Force couple.”

Mike and Jini Short celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary during a French Riverboat Cruise on August 13, 2015. Jude and Georgie Terhall helped them celebrate the event.

Wayne and Marty at the USAFA Chapel 9 Jun 2015.

A special reminisce from Ken McAlear “Last October (2014), Lee Alton, Harv Shelton, and I joined a host of family and friends at the Academy for the 90th birthday party of Lt. Col. (Ret.) Ed Walford.

stay at this hotel, so there shouldn’t be any need to “jump the gun” and try to get your reservations early -- in fact, the hotel will probably tell you that they are sold out that weekend. Another area that our committee is trying to finalize is our Class Gift. There are several great ideas that your squadron reunion representatives are supposed to be getting your feedback on before the committee makes a final selection. So keep an eye out for their emails and give them some feedback, even if it’s “whatever Members the committee comes up with 78% will work for me”.

The ’66 Fishing Club had its annual meeting and fishing derby at Yellowstone again this year. In addition to the usual suspects, some guests from other classes (Steve Amdor, ’65 and Roger Sabre Society Carleton, ’67) joined the group of Donors mighty fishermen. Reports from 38 unidentified sources claimed that “for a bunch of guys in their 8th decade, they are surprisingly spry, giving the little fishies hardly any chance”. (The fish might have another story to tell.) One of the group (Steve Amdor) even decided to personally check their underwater habitat in one deep hole on Soda Butte Creek, which won him a new nickname of Nymph—as in “Nymph lead in hot.”

In addition to the fishing, tall tales, war stories, USAFA, and USAF current events, there were also reports of premium libations flowing freely after dinner each evening, Marty Daack and Hugh Gommel were the planners for this annual event, and obviously did a great job, because next year is already booked. With such a special group of life-long friends, they can’t wait to get back to fishing in 2016.

Mike and Ginny’s on their 50th Wedding Anniversary.

Through the efforts of Bill McDermott, the CS-7 graduates have arranged to give an engraved Cadet Saber to the 7th Squadron for them to use in their Change of Command ceremony. The presentation will take place during the 50th Reunion.

Ken, Lee and Harv with Col. Walford on his 90th Birthday.

“Then Major Walford, a Chemistry Department professor, and his lovely wife, Barbara, drew the short straw and ended up sponsoring the three of us in 1961 in the newly-formed Cadet Sponsor Program. They most graciously opened their home in Pine Valley and their warm hospitality to the three of us for the next four years. We became their adopted children, to join the six they already had. I especially was thankful for them inviting me to join their family Christmas celebration our doolie year since my parents were unable

–Bill Roberts, 9870 E. Golden Currant Drive, Tucson, AZ 85748-7897; (520) 342-8002; scribe@usafa1965. org; https://usafa-1965.org; https://www.facebook. com/groups/usafa1965

1966

Greetings, Redtags! With less than a year to go until our 50th Reunion, our gang of guys in C Springs (aka The Reunion Committee) is starting to nail down some of the details. They are currently in the final stages of negotiations with the Antlers Hotel to make that our “’66 Reunion” hotel. They are planning to get enough rooms so that everyone will be able to

Those smiling fishermen are Vic Andrews, Hugh Gommel, Marty Daack, Roger Carleton (’67), Hans Mueh, Rusty Gideon, Dick Borowski, John Marshall, Tom Brandon, Steve Amdor (’65), Tip Galer, and Art Suro.

Harry Icke writes that he hadn’t been to the Air Force Museum at Wright-Pat since our cadet days, but he kept hearing good things about it so he and his wife, Betsy, used some excess Southwest frequent flyer miles to head up there for a few days. Harry said “Wow, it didn’t disappoint! We spent two full days going through it and probably could have spent more if we had allocated the time. They have done a great job of preserving not only Air Force but aviation history as well.” Someone had told him that his name was on the BAT 21 rescue exhibit and so he tracked it down and got this picture.

The display tells the story of the rescue of Lt Col Hambleton, an EB-66 (call sign Bat 21) navigator that Checkpoints · December 2015 · 107

CLASS NEWS was the only survivor when the aircraft was hit by a SAM over enemy held territory in Vietnam. After several rescue attempts failed, with the loss of numerous aircraft and personnel, a new plan was developed to conduct a ground recovery, but they needed Hambleton to move away from his current hiding spot. Knowing that radio traffic was being monitored by the enemy, they gave him direction and distance information by naming specific holes a different golf courses that Hambleton had played. The display says “One forward air controller, Capt Harold Icke, spent countless hours orbiting near Hambleton and communicating by radio throughout the ordeal.” After following the coded directions, Hambleton was rescued by a U.S. Navy and Vietnamese Seal Team. This story was made into a 1988 movie, “Bat 21”, starring Gene Hackman and Danny Glover.

Harry says that he highly recommends a visit to the museum for all of our classmates. He says “they will find all of the aircraft they flew and lots of memories . . . probably both good and bad but I suspect mostly good.”

Harry Icke discovers that he is not just a visitor to the Air Force Museum—he is actually a part of it!

As part of our role as the “Legacy Class” for the Class of 2016, we were invited to that class’s Ring Dance in May of this year. You can see from the picture below that ten of our classmates were able to clean up pretty well and attend the affair. This is a great “new tradition”, but I can’t help thinking that, if it had been in existence during our Ring Dance, the Legacy guests would have been commissioned before World War I.

Greetings, one and all. As I write this, I am in Minnesota, enjoying (mostly) beautiful fall weather, the antics of my grandkids, and the company of family and friends as I celebrate my 70th birthday – a milestone that many of us have attained, and the rest soon will.

Good heavens – back when we were young and steely-eyed and bullet proof, did any of us ever consider that one day we would be looking into our 8th decade? And now – it is here. Wow. Happy birthday to us all.

Brian “Boom Boom” De Luca, Al Pichon, Mike Lombard and some others unearthed a treasure trove of photos from some USAFA event which involved alcohol, back when that was more acceptable. That led to this vignette from Brian: “In my sobriety at the Officers’ Club that evening, I received some personal specialized trainMembers ing from Robin Olds himself. As 71% soon-to-be Commandant, he was our guest at the banquet. We were together in the long line at the mens’ room, waiting for our turns at a pot or urinal. Losing patience and always Mission Oriented, the General drafted Sabre Society me as his Wingman and we Donors maneuvered to the washstand.

30 He trained me in the fine art of (whizzing) in the sink, as we made a formation attack on the porcelain – delivering “Yellow Rain.” A Seminal Moment in the development of An Officer and a Gentleman!!”

Brian and I recalled another adventure from our summer after graduation – that involved a damsel in distress, foreign agents, and a quest for a Holy Grail.

The quest was successful, and Brian demonstrates the proof in this pic:

1967

and me… Chuck, on behalf of ’67, gave… remarks… a very nice ceremony and dinner… our classmates who attended had nothing but compliments...”

Roger also represented ’67 on a fishing expedition: “… at Yellowstone with the ‘66 Red Tags... Steve Amdor, ‘65, and I were the only interlopers. I could not believe all the large Cutthroat trout we caught out of such a little stream… Have fly rods; will travel.”

Roger Carleton and one of the many lunkers he nailed in Yellowstone.

Another from Roger: “WHAT ARE THE ODDS? I’d wager the probability of being on board a ship sailing off the Norwegian coast above the Arctic Circle and bumping into a ‘67 classmate is darned low, if not negligible. Eddie Folz and his wife, Frances, were on the ship. Talk about a small world…”

Roy P. Miller also had a recent birthday, with a special guest at his party. Well, not quite. “… A friend of mine opened a very high-end jewelry store in Phoenix… with (Carol) Channing as a guest…”

Roy Miller and friend in Phoenix.

The Legacy Class at the 2016 Ring Dance -- showing them that they could still look pretty good in 50 years.

From left are John Fal, Ray Milberg, Hans Mueh, Vic Andrews, Rick Parsons, Marty Daack, Tom Markham, Larry Bagley, Hugh Gommel, and Bill Riley.

Keep those emails coming, and start planning to attend our 50th Reunion from 28 Sep to 2 Oct 2016.

Until next time… Happy Landings!

–Ryan Denny, 1635 Mary Todd Lane, O’Fallon, IL 62269; Home: (618) 624-4255; ryanden@aol.com

108 · usafa.org

Boom Boom and treasured Hofbrau mug!

Roger Carleton sent some information on some summer events: “… ’67 grads at the Commitment Dinner – Joe Burke, Frank Chuba, Gerry Corwin, Chris Dysart, Pat Finnegan, Tom Griesser, Paul Henry, Pet Knepell, Gary Koldyke, Bruce McDonald, George Milne, Pete Sarda, Jeff Schofield, Chuck Heflebower

From Bob Muldrow: “Polaris Hall, the new Center for Character and Leadership Development is about ready… some specs on this building. The tower is 105 feet high. There are 966 glass panels. The same group that made the chapel is in charge. The common room will accommodate 225. The tower has to meet very high quality standards. Specifically… from top to bottom has to be within 1/8th of an inch… There is a small star cluster aimed at the star, Polaris. The steadfastness of the northern star is symbolic of our dedication to honor and character… Skidmore Owens and Merrill used the same Italian tile that was used for the chapel.”

A few brief updates, first from Chuck Denham: Al and Bunky Lundberg hosted an impromptu BBQ

Labor Day Sunday for Paula and Hank Arnold, Walt and Marlene Edgerly, Skip Pumfrey, and Carolyn and Chuck Denham. Chuck, I’m sorry I could not get the pic in – maybe another time.

Lex Page traveled down memory lane recently, visiting former homes in Texas and Oklahoma with an old high school buddy. Then they blew through Albuquerque in time to catch a few days of the Balloon Fiesta. Pat and I had a fun dinner with them, and Lex’s friend and my wife were thrilled to hear (again) some of our tales of OSI days, Vietnam, etc.

Doc Halliday sent a photo (sorry – cannot include it in this Checkpoints) taken this August in downtown Hyderabad, India, where he “…traveled as a logistics subject matter expert under a DoD Defense Institution Building program at the request of India’s College of Defence Management. Mostly retired, I travel occasionally for RAND; three times to Liberia in the last 18 months plus the trip to India…” Doc asked one of the group in what year he was born. “Answer – 1967!

Ouch!” Doc – I feel your pain, more each year…

From Al Pichon: he, Mike Hayner and John Egan and their wives recently connected in Tampa, FL, where they had “… a wonderful time as you can tell by the flasks and glasses of wine (another pic I could not get into this article). John and his wife live at Centerville, OH. He is still working. Mike and Sofia live over by Merritt Island (east coast of Florida) and he is retired. Sharon and I live at Windermere, FL and she retires on 6 Nov to join me as a full-time retiree...”

A bit about the reunion and donations, summarized from info from Roger Carleton: some of our number have generously donated to the AF Academy Fund/Sabre Society as well to other funds. However, many have not. Importantly, each of the 24 cadet squadrons was asked earlier to raise $475 in order to reach the $20,000 goal for Carillon Maintenance. ’67 is a bit behind on this. It would greatly help if all grads could help with the Carillon project – especially as the Carillon “is getting a workout” as its bells are offered to families before or after the interment of their loved one. “The final big project will be to raise funds for ACES/LIFT. While we’ve sent out info on that before, none of our Class had these one-day seminars as cadets. They are – IMO – very worthwhile. We’ll have another paper out before Thanksgiving. Our goal always has been to conclude fundraising by December next year so we could focus on the 50th to make it a great event.” More to follow on all that. And – if you have not yet contributed to the Carillon – contact your squadron rep.

That’s it for this missive. Much is happening in the world and the nation, and the lives of our children and grandchildren will be affected by decisions made by our elected leaders. Consider the issues carefully, and exercise your rights to participate in the political processes.

God bless the troops and their families, and God bless the United States of America.

–Larry Wilson, 13100 Pinehurst Ave. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111; Home: (505) 291-8949; Lwilsn628@ aol.com

HELLO ’68! Season’s Greetings!

As politicos in the nation’s capital deal with “top priority” issues like climate change, please take a few moments during the upcoming holiday season to remember those in harm’s way as first responders on the home-front and to those defending our way of life thousands of miles away from the comforts we enjoy. May God bless them all!

1968

Kerry Killebrew enjoying a mountaintop view along the Appalachian Trail. ’68ER DOES APPALACHIAN TRAIL (AT): Whilst some of you were rocking back on your La-Z-Boys to watch an exhilarating show from one of the 569 channels offered by your local cable company, our classmate Kerry Killebrew was involved in a major “walk-about” from Georgia to Maine. As Kerry writes, “I was part of a group of 12 hikers (5 ladies and 7 men, average age 55) who participated Members in the 2015 AT Expedition. As 71% a group, we completed four 60mile prep hikes (three days each) on the AT over a period of two years just getting ready for the real thing and making sure we knew what we were getting into.

“The AT is a 2,189- mile hike Sabre Society from Springer Mountain, GA to Donors Katahdin Mountain, ME. We 57 started in Georgia on 2 May 2015 and finished on 18 September at the top of Katahdin Mountain. That’s 140 days or 4 1/2 months. The AT runs through 14 states (GA, NC, TN, VA, WV, MD, PA, NJ, NY, CT, MA, VT, NH, and ME). Many asked why I did this. I hiked a lot as a scout before and during high school, but my real interest in hiking began in 2002 when I backpacked south to north through the Smoky Mountains with one of my sons and a friend from Knoxville, TN. I backpacked through the Smokies again in 2011 north to south and found out about Warren Doyle’s 2015 AT Expedition.

I applied and participated in the prep hikes in 2013 & 2014. As a runner for the past 40+ years, I was interested in the physical challenge and just enjoying being out in God’s creation for an extended period of time.

The challenge exceeded my expectations. . . .

“The hike was supported by a van that carried most of our equipment (tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, and bins for food, clothes, and essential miscellaneous

equipment). We just “day-hiked” each of the 140 days with a pack (15 pounds instead of 35-40 pounds) that had only what we needed for the day (lunch, water, jacket, rain gear, and emergency supplies). Basically, we hiked each day (average 17 miles) to the van where we camped for the night. We didn’t stay in shelters along the trail because the van had to be at or near a place each night where the AT crossed a road. Communication through iPhones was better than expected because we could generally count on calling and sending text messages and pictures from mountain tops and when we stopped in towns for resupply.

“My biggest challenge was weight loss. I lost about 22 pounds in the first 6 weeks (~1/2 pound a day but didn’t notice it at first). I had to start eating a lot of high calorie junk food (lots of snacks) to give me the 4000-6000 calories needed for the long hikes each day. Now that I’m back home, I still need to regain about 15 pounds to get back to normal weight. It was an awesome experience, in many aspects harder than expected, but with many great memories.” Kerry, thanks for sharing your story and some serious weightloss tips.

Count the Helmets author and his bride: Sharon and Neal Starkey.

FORMER ’68 USAFA ALL AMERICAN FOOTBALL STAR BECOMES AUTHOR: As ’68’s first class scribe, Neal Starkey knows something about reaching out and communicating with others. While creating a living legacy for himself as a student athlete in the 1960s, he was able to recognize leadership, teamwork, a positive culture, and commitment that transcends the fields of friendly strife. In Neal’s own words, “Count the Helmets is the completion of a 30-year goal to write a highly accurate story about the people that made up the 1985 AFA Falcon football team, its coaches and players, their journey through an extraordinary 12-1 season, and how their shared experiences at the Academy resulted in the development of leaders of character, in a culture of commitment, and a climate of respect, ready to serve their country.” (Scribe Note: The book’s featured photo shows the helmets of all 11 AFA team members involved in the tackling of a single opposing player.)

Again, from Neal, “the success of this book, however, will be measured by how well it helps potential cadets, from every possible culture and background, better understand the culture and values of the Air Force Academy, allowing them to make a better, more informed choice about whether the AFA is the right place for them—or not.”

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 109

CLASS NEWS Beyond his book, Neal is reaching out to Superintendent, Lt Gen Michelle Johnson to offer some ideas from the graduate community that she can use to help fix problems at USAFA that we’ve all seen over the past decade or so… maybe longer. Neal writes, “I’m plagiarizing Warren Buffet’s recent very short-and-tothe-point answer to a young reporter’s question: ‘What is the secret to your success?’ His answer was simply…

‘Start earlier.’ My challenge to General Johnson will be to: (1) Recognize the huge difference in cultures and values that exist… now more than ever… between cadet candidates and any/all incoming new classes; (2) Address that gap with more historically-connected Character-Leadership-Discipline-CommitmentTeamwork examples; (3) Deliver a much-improved message earlier in the decision cycle (as early as 9th Grade); and (4) Utilize generational-friendly technologies (versus just another glossy advertisement on the Web)… to deliver this challenge.” Neal, good luck in your discussions with the “Supe” and thank you for sharing your thoughts about recruiting new cadets for our alma mater.

Greg and Kathryn Paquin thankful for happier days ahead.

THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS: More than a year ago, Greg Paquin was fighting for his life during a quadruple bypass operation. And, now in Greg’s words, “I seem to have gotten better! I’m still loving retirement in Hot Springs Village, AR. After 7 years and 3,500 hours in C-130 Bs, Es, and Hs, I still can’t get away from them. We are on one of the low-level routes for training flights out of Little Rock. It does leave me somewhat nostalgic, I must say.” We all join Kathryn in giving thanks for answers to prayers in Greg’s recovery.

THAT’S A WRAP: Best wishes to one and all for the blessings of this special season. Mind the flak; keep ’em flying, and keep those cards, letters, emails, and photos coming in to Pat Russell and me. Ciao for now. Tim

Greetings, ’69ers A bit of a lull this time – fewer cards and letters with edgy information re: our cool classmates to pass along. Will update as I have it, and tie up long overdue loose ends from the past.

First, due to construction delays and related extended decision making, much of which is occurring in Washington, the opening of the CCLD and the Class christening of the Honor Board Room are rescheduled for some time in spring. Will provide notice to all when we have something more definite.

Following up on the Marco Polo Percys and the Magellan-like Posners, below is a picture of Team Percy enjoying the Arctic elements in Svalbard, Norway.

1969

Judy, Jackie and Dad Percy tackle the Arctic.

Meanwhile, Jeff and Anne Posner, in anticipation of long passages across the Indian and South Atlantic Oceans, have “retired” from the round-the-world Blue Planet Odyssey campaign due to mild health issues. They’ve seen Pacific sights in their semi- circumnavigation of the planet, made friends, collected scientific data, experienced exotics like Bora-Bora and Tonga, and served fellow man during their journey.

Some relaxation in springtime Australia is now on their agenda, while they recalibrate next adventures.

Updates available at missinjoyful.com.

–Tim Davidson, 9712 Hidden Valley Road, Vienna, VA 22181-6094; Home: (703) 255-5313; Mobile: (703) 772-6052; timdav1968@verizon.net; Class Website: www.usafa68.org Great Barrier Reef welcoming committee greets joyful crew Jeff and Anne Posner.

Over a year ago, Chris Hope wrote that he was reading the then-current issue of Air & Space Smithsonian, and a piece on the Old Bold Pilots’ Assoc. in Oceanside, CA, when none other than his ex-roomie Chuck Hosmer was pictured, resplendent in four stripes and 110 · usafa.org

demonstrating the bank and pitch he used on a standard climb-out of San Diego. Chuck says he’s working 8:00-5:30 M-F at Proflight (Carlsbad). Chris continues as Exec Director of the Dictionary Project Kansas City.

On May 2-3, Blair Stephenson completed his annual BikeMS ride with the Pioneer Cycling Team that rides 150 miles to support Multiple Sclerosis. Blair, who dedicated this year’s ride to wife, Charlene, carries an orange bandana with the names of those he honors, and for whom he raised $7K in 2014’s ride. Several ’69ers, and many of Blair’s 14th Squadron mates, including Chris Hope, have helped contribute to Blair’s exemplary rides. Props to Blair from us all.

Jerry Ball writes from San Antonio, sends greetings, and points out a nice piece on Gary Lindner, Members of Comfort, TX, who in May 68% the Small Business Association District Director named a Veteran Business Owner Champion of the Year. Gary’s firm, PeopleFund, has evolved into a statewide business lending organization that has engineered 5,600 loans Sabre Society Donors to small business owners in 42 Texas. The City of Austin recently appointed Gary to the Veteran’s Commission in recognition of his commitment to veterans.

Ron Lisowski, exercising his aero/astro muscles in response to an e-mail circulating among some in the class, determined that some things would be simpler -- or at least less subject to today’s penchant for “political correctness” -- were we to use Julian Dates, referring back to noon, 4713 BCE in the Gregorian Calendar. He calculates that, under that system, “JULIAN DAY TWO MILLION FOUR HUNDRED FORTY THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED SEVENTY SEVEN” would have been etched on our diplomas! A mouthful, and perhaps difficult to back when to the intended loves of our lives. ’69er golf update: Gerry Schwartzel keeps on shooting his age, Jeff Grime keeps tearing up the Carolina four-ball tournaments (he placed 1st last year and 6th this year in the Carolinas Super Senior Four-Ball Championships), Mike Goode and Scott Bench continue to lie in wait for the time to resume their scratch-golf ways, and John Buckner, Craig Collins, Brian Nelson, Roy Coppinger, Mike Beezley, Steve Cherry, and Mike Thiessen play well, often and everywhere − and card some extraordinary rounds.

The Colorado golf circuit is abuzz with the news that Brother Nelson and wife, Lizzie, resettled in Castle Pines in February, reshuffling the golf pecking order there, while improving the music.

Bob Bell is recovering from a heart valve replacement, and looking forward to resuming his normal ambassadorial duties, and of course golf, in his predicted full recovery. He and Vibeka remain in Brussels.

Received a note regarding Curt Andrus from one of his sponsorees in the Class of 1986. Curt works as a C-Springs realtor, and his wife, Joan, is in social work.

Steve Skotte, the ’86er, stays in touch with Curt and sees him whenever in the Springs on business.

Ray and Tammy Haygood have joined the Atlanta ’69 cadre, having departed Colorado to be nearer son Bill and daughter Shana and their families. They are building a home in Alpharetta, to be completed next May, in a new community called The Orchards of Big Creek. Ray says it’s a 55+ oriented development – I think this means there will be “easy listening” for the over-30 contingent!

This summer, Tom Allen stepped down from his long triple careers in service of country. After retiring from active duty in 1998, Tom worked at the Institute for Defense Analysis for 11 years as analyst, project leader, and Deputy Director for the Joint Advanced Warfighting Division, before returning to DoD in 2010 as the J8 Deputy Director for Studies and Analysis, directing studies, wargames, and data development. Having known Tom since we were high school freshman and flying to Denver together to report into USAFA five hours late on that memorable day back in June 1965 (Beast Barracks thereby being particularly rude!), I am unsurprised at his ringing success and distinguished careers in and out of uniform. Nor is any ’69er. Congratulations, Tom. Hand salute from us all.

Tom Allen and Darrel Whitcomb at Tom’s retirement.

Three sad notes conclude this missive. In July, Zyggy Orzechowski lost his wife of 46 years, Judy, to a possible embolism in her sleep. Judy and Zyggy, with family, were in the Bahamas enjoying the recent marriage of their son. Please keep them all in your thoughts. (617 Wildwood Lane, O’Fallon, IL 62269) And, since August, we have lost two more ’69ers, Larry McKellar passed away in Tarpon Springs, FL. Condolences may be sent to his family in care of his wife: Annalisa, Mrs. Annalisa B. McKellar; PO Box 992; Tarpon Springs, FL 34688-0992.

In mid-October, Skip Skinner lost his year-long battle with cancer. Condolences may be sent to the family in care of his wife, Marty: Mrs. Marty Skinner; 5581 E. Shadow Ridge Dr; Tucson, AZ 85750-1030, or online at www.dignitymemorial.com.

Skip’s funeral service at St. Thomas the Apostle in Tucson was attended by ’69ers Elton Humphreys, Scott Ingram, Tom Keck, Tom McGrain, Mike Wetterer and Darrel Whitcomb. H Ownby sent a Raven Challenge coin which Darrel Whitcomb, a fellow Raven, placed in Skip’s hands. Skip’s Evil Eighth squadron mates have donated over $1,000 to Catholic and other charities in his name, so far including John Dallager, Doug Fitzpatrick, Steve Goettler, Tom McGrain, Bob Nall, Wildcat Phillips, Terry Stake, Chazz Hammond, Pete Melly, Joe Nenninger, John Ryan, Johnny Stavely, Bart Tucker and Mike Wetterer. More to come.

Godspeed to Zyggy and Judy, Larry and Annalisa, and Skip and Marty. Please remember them all thought and prayer. And, because none have figured out how to reverse the aging process, recall this wise reminder “hug the ones you love every day” (thanks to Roger Hartman).

Salute to you all until next time. Cards and letters and photos, please, at your leisure. A blessed Holiday Season to all. Lindsey –Lindsey Parris, 616 King’s Cloister Circle, Alexandria, VA 22302; Home: (703) 836-3604; 102177.1033@ compuserve.com

1970

Greetings Classmates! Hope those of you who attended the Reunion had a great time. I suspect you were planning to read about the Reunion in this article, but my deadline was several weeks before the Reunion. Next issue!

Well our football team has been a disappointment. After seven games, we are 4-3. The season is not shaping up as I had predicted. The loss of our starting QB, Nate Romaine, in the second game has hurt more than I expected. Losing to Navy stung and dropping a game to a mediocre CSU team was inexcusable. Those losses will have us scrambling to get to six wins and a bowl game.

I have seen several Seventy men at games: Tom Butt, Dave Palanchar, Gary Finley, Roy Kessel, Mike Paddock, Mick Davey, George Rayl, Larry Bush, Dave Gaw, Mike Lambert, John Gallager, Cook Villareal, Russ Carparelli, and Roger Hill to name a few (that I can remember). Bob and Peggy McKinney sit right in front of Marilyn and me at games. As a former player and coach, he gives me great insight into the games between my many expletive deleteds.

Former “F Troop” BCT members root Falcons to victory. In the back row are Mike Lambert and Tooey Emery. Front row: Roy Kessel and Dave Palanchar.

The 2015 kick off times are not conducive to us old timers and I am sure those of you on the East Coast are in bed long before kickoff.

On the bright side, the Falcon hockey team beat #5 Denver in its opening game. We have a total of 20 freshmen and sophomores on the team. The future is bright! The BB team lost some good seniors and has a lot of young players, but some are studs.

Gregg Popovich continues to pile up honors. He was announced as the next coach of the Olympic BB

team starting in 2017. That means he will be around until 2020. What a great honor for our classmate! This should be a great year for the Spurs as they acquired some great talent in the off season.

Congrats to Larry Tieman for finishing the Boulder Ironman! I am entering the Marlboro 500 (yds) next year. I see our classmates continue to do a lot of global traveling. Greg and Janice Gilles spent over a month in Greece and Turkey. Greg sacrificed being my partner in several golf tournaments for seeing the Hagia Sophia (look it up) and other sites. Collie Norman visited Bali. Dana and Linda Arbaugh took in a lot of neat historic sites on their trip throughout Members Europe. I think I saw Germany, 74% Russia, Denmark, and Sweden pictures on their Facebook page. Doug Norton, Dana and DK Shelton deserve kudos for raising money from classmates and other grads for a beautiful statue of a bronze falcon that now Sabre Society Donors graces the front of Doolittle Hall.

Mike and Karen Miller also 49 trekked to Turkey. John and Marilyn DeFilippo allegedly broke even at the gambling tables in Monte Carlo.

Rich and Nancy Downing spent some time in Hawaii and Tooey and Carol Emery are scheduled for a late November visit as I write this in October. I am also sure Gary and Sharon Dahlen will make their annual trek there once winter sets in here. I got this picture and wondered where the heck these guys were on our Survival Trek!

Master fishermen Roger Hill and George Rayl.

I ran across Shawn Raintree at Kings Soopers and Frank Heming at the golf course. I guess that sentence sort of captures my life these days. Marilyn would disagree with the first part of the sentence though!

Russ Carparelli missed Falcon football and has moved back to Colorado after a short stint in Nashville. Bill Hamill has 13 grand children. Ran across Dan Murphy at Home Depot. Angus MacDonald’s son recently soloed. Jim DeOrio is full professor of orthopedic surgery at Duke concentrating on foot and ankle surgery. He is happy to answer any questions from classmates on foot and ankle problems or even general orthopedics. I have Jim’s contact info if you need it. (See photo at the top of the next column.)

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 111

CLASS NEWS to purchase Contrails for them. So if you haven’t donated or can support the above with a donation, we would appreciate your contribution. Hats off to all of you who volunteer.

Marilyn and I hope all of you have a great Holiday Season and a Healthy New Year. God Bless our troops!

–Dick Rauschkolb, 130 Luxury Lane, Colorado Springs, CO 80921; Home: (719) 761-5764; Cell: (719) 310-6928; AOG70@comcast.net Jim DeOrio from the fields of friendly strife to orthopedic surgeon.

Kudos to Mike and Melissa Huber and Tom and Sheila Waskow for doing great work at our USOs in Ohio and North Carolina, respectively. Phil Meilinger is writing a book advocating a change in our military strategy. I read the preface and it will be interesting to see how the defense community reacts to its proposals, which include a greater reliance on airpower (surprise). Willie and Pattie Schepens moved to Ponte Vedra Beach and live in Sawgrass. Willie can’t wait to play Sawgrass!

While on vacation in France, Wally Fey dismounted from a taxi in Nice (allegedly sober) and tangled his foot in the shoulder strap of his luggage. Result -slammed into the pavement at a high approach speed, and broke his wrist -- surgery and no Reunion! We missed you and your Bernie Sanders for President pin Wally!

On a very sad note, we lost three classmates recently: Vince Puglisi, Chan Morse, and Steve Riggs.

Good men all! Charlie Bobbish, Jeff Allen and John Monohan attended a service for Vince. Vince’s very good friend Mike Kelley was there in spirit and helped Charlie and John write Vince’s obit in this issue of Checkpoints. Mike Dunn passed on some sad news -- Joanne York recently passed away.

I want to thank my fellow members of the Class Gift Committee. Gary Dahlen, Mike Torreano, Tooey Emery, and I have been working on class projects for the past 11 years. Mike Lambert joined us this past year.

This has involved many long meetings and thousands of emails. We have not always agreed, but have always managed to reach a consensus and move forward. Our goal at the beginning was to make our class known as the Heritage Class. Due to your generosity, we have far exceeded our expectations. The replica of the War Memorial, the Southeast Asia Memorial Pavilion and The Plaza of Heroes serve as an example to other classes of what is possible. More importantly, we have provided the cadets with memorials that capture the legacy of the Long Blue Line and will serve to inspire them to accomplish great things in the Air Force and beyond. While we have completed our major projects, we still would like to raise funds for the following projects: A replica of the screens and SEA map for the cadet area so cadets can see their heritage everyday, a vibrant web site (70SEAPAVILON.com) that captures many of the graduate stories, and the funding to add more graduate stories to the interactive screens. We also would like to use some funds to put in our class fund to pay for the resurfacing of the War Memorial ($20K). We are also the legacy class for the Class of 2020 that enters next summer and we will need funds 112 · usafa.org

1971

Here we are again, with football in full swing; from the Commander-in-Chief’s trophy perspective, the best we can hope for is a “push” if Army somehow beats Navy later this year.

Here is Frank Morgan’s latest update on the Class Gift project: “I know it has been a long time since I updated you on the status of our 40th Reunion Class Gifts: the Air Warrior Combat Memorial (AWCM) and the two breakout rooms in the nearly completed Center for Character and Leadership Development (CCLD). While the CCLD portion of the gift has been pretty straightforward, the AWCM saga has been just the opposite. There were many times that I started an email to the Class with a position report, only to be thwarted by another ‘course correction.’ (If you want to read about the entire journey, go to AirWarrior.org, where Jim Nance has done a wonderful job of chronicling that adventure.

“The good news is that we are finally there after four years! A modified version of the original AWCM concept has been approved by the USAFA Memorial Board and the Superintendent, Members and we have an excellent location 56% as the center-point for the new ‘Aviation Park’ located behind the B-52 at the North Gate. Again, all the details of the location and the new design are at AirWarrior.org.

“So, now we come to the fun part… paying for these babies.

Sabre Society Donors The CCLD gift is still going to be about $200K (of which we have 47 already raised over $57K) and the AWCM should come in at about $750K (final estimates have not been received at this time). All in all, we are looking at around $1M for our total fundraising goal, which is not trivial, but very achievable.

“The USAFA Endowment is going to guide us through the process of collecting donations, and will present several options for making a donation. It will be painless! You will be getting more details about that soon, as it is imperative that we start the wheels moving this year if we want to meet our goal of being able to dedicate the AWCM at our 45th Reunion in the Fall of 2016. However, for the eager beavers in the crowd who have end-of-year dollars burning a hole in their checkbooks, you can always go to AirWarrior.org and place a donation for either the AWCM, the CCLD, or both!

“This has not been an easy undertaking. I want to thank all of you for your patience in standing by our decision to go forward with these gifts despite the many obstacles that were put in our way. I want to especially thank Jim Nance for the many hours he has spent revising plans, redoing presentations, and reorganizing websites. At the end of the day, as we stand as a Class, beer in hand, at the dedication ceremony next Fall, I have no doubt you will agree that it was worth it.”

Speaking of Class gifts, the Class of 1970 has made a major effort with their Southeast Asia Memorial, with our own Jim Nance having two sculptures. Their latest effort memorialized Air Force Cross recipients, including Don Backlund. Several of you guys helped them get in touch with Don’s relatives, including Tom Johnson’s bride, Nancy. During their Academy days Don asked Nancy, his cousin, if she were interested in a double date with his friend, Tom. As Nancy said, “the rest is history.”

The Colorado Independent Publishers’ Association recently presented Andy Ceroni’s latest effort, Snow Men, first place for the best Action-Adventure fiction book of the year! Then, his publisher put it in competition for their Best Book of the Year contest. Largely through your efforts, he won that too! He recently received an “honorable mention” from Writer’s Digest in “genre fiction”.

Another classmate sometimes mentioned is Sam Clovis, who is spending time with the Donald Trump campaign as a foreign policy advisor.

Darryl Wimberley’s most recent book, Paul Bunyan, will be available, mainly through Amazon, around December.

Scotty Bowen is still teaching part-time at Regis; he enjoys his time more when he has choices. John Grueser recently attended a gathering of SR-71 crew and their support teams.

Al Brayton married the lovely Lisa at his vineyard in Sonoma, CA, over the Labor Day weekend. In attendance were Sonny Childers, Tom Callen, and Rod Jones.

Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Brayton!

Keith Barrett recently returned to the Academy for several reasons; he has donated his Wings of Blue gear to their memory wall, and he helped a young lady from the local Rockwall, TX, area not only learn to fly but apply for and win a USAFA appointment. (See photo at the top of the next column.)

Rus Records sent a short note: “I saw in the latest Checkpoints class news the note about me being the last (oldest?) ’71er who had a kid at the Academy.

That’s true; my son Morgan Luke is now a 3C in 31st.

For our 30th reunion, I had the youngest child there when my eldest son, Ryan, was three months old.

Morgan did jump school over the summer and seems

Dan Skotte sent his latest message with a unique photo from his recent USAF Humanitarian trip in New Guinea last June. “Scro” has always been actively participating in some of the more exotic activities that a medical professional can, having just been granted another year on MSD extension, putting him at year 49 in military service. Currently he is the 146th MDG Commander in Channel Island, CA with the Air Guard, continuing to fly with the 173rd Fighter Wing’s F-15s on Fridays.

Keith’ Barrett’s gear in Ops. to really love being there, which is somewhat of a surprise to me because he showed no particular interest in high school. Many of his high school classmates are now serving, with two of them (the Duncavage brothers) being recent Academy graduates, and a handful of Army Rangers. This is Texas after all, home of Chris Kyle, the American Sniper, and the SEAL who capped Bin Laden.

“I have four kids, two girls from my first marriage and the two boys. My oldest daughter, Evelyn, is active in Utah politics and I expect her to run for office soon.

The younger girl, Rigel, is the operations manager for a software company in Austin. My oldest son Ryan works in event services for the Houston Texans NFL team, and Morgan is at the Zoo. I have seven grandkids, including a new grandson who is 4 months old.

“I have recently retired after 28 years at Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) doing IT and business consulting. My wife, Sandy, who I met when she was an AF nurse at Tyndall, manages a trop rock band (think Jimmy Buffett). (www.redfishisland.com).

“We live on Clear Lake which is a rocks-throw from NASA JSC and a short boat ride to Galveston Bay and the Gulf. I have been a serious sailor over the past 20 years, though I have given up long-distance ocean racing. I got my Coast Guard Masters license a few years ago and I do some training on radar and night navigation for local clubs.

“With Morgan at the Academy, I find it very interesting how little has actually changed since we were there. OK, they call the Terrazo the T-Zo, 2Cs can get cars, some of the Cadets wear skirts, and firsties can jump in the Air Gardens after finals. But the Cadet irreverent attitude is still firmly in place. There seems to be less formal a relationship between the classes than I remember, but that’s not all bad.” GBA –Paul D. Knott, 5565 Lantana Drive, Colorado springs, CO 80915; Home: (719) 570-9162; pk71knott@gmail.com

1972

we go.

Greetings go out to all of you in the Class of ’72 during a beautiful COOL fall day in Pennsylvania. Our weather will no doubt be changing for what some call the worse very soon, but still seems to be close enough to summer to be enjoyable to all. It’s time once again to put some news out your way, so here

Dan Skotte Yours truly made the trek to Annapolis for our East-Coast service academy competition against Navy in early October. A blustery and somewhat misty, rainy day did not dampen the spirits of the fans who attended the Tailgate party preceding the game. I did manage to meet up briefly with Leslie Shrum near the tailgate tent, and also heard that Jerry Helmen was present (on the Navy side?) but did not get to see him.

Sorry if I have missed any other classmates who may have been there, hence, only three of us made it into the picture from Annapolis.

Wil Wanamaker, Bob Bell and Mike Murphy Once the action started, though, it was not so much fun watching “our team” going down in defeat. But as always, any game between the service academy rivals remains a high point of any season, no matter the outcome. Even though our seating was all pretty well together, we had the chance to banter with the many Navy supporters interspersed among us in the stands.

Via our Facebook website, USAFA ’72 - Best In Blue, there were indications that several other gatherings of classmate-fans were viewing that game in various establishments around the country along with us at the stadium, although I had no direct reports of such celebrations on Navy weekend.

Once again, as always, I can count on Harvey LeCato to come through with reportage on other recent and current activities which include other

From left in back are Chuck Winter, “Buzz” Allen, Steve Berendt, Roger Nash, Skip Morgan, Felix Dupre, Mark Mayer, “Ski” Wagasky, Bill Haan, George Pollard, and Timo Sullivan. In front are Ross Wilhite, Greg Bishop, Andy Gessner, and Harvey LeCato. members of the class, usually from the Colorado Springs area. The occasion of his latest input is the October 17th Class mini-reunion/watch party at Jack Quinn’s Bar in an attempt to once again cheer on the USAFA Falcons in their challenge of our Members perennial gridiron rival CSU. A 53% great time was reportedly being had by all watching the game – until CSU began seriously beating us… Oh well, on to the rest of the season, right?

Can anyone else believe it has already been three years since our Sabre Society 40th Class Reunion? Doing the Donors math, that means only about 24 40 months left until the 45th is upon us! I hope everyone continues to thrive and makes plans to join up once again at that time. In the meantime, keep up when you can on the news (here if possible) and since the social media has taken off in other places, at least visit your class FB site, listed above, where currently there are 178 members.

Many of us may have dropped off the face of the earth, or gone “off-grid” so to speak, but if you are in contact with someone who hasn’t been staying in touch much since that grand day in June, 1972, maybe you could be the one who brings him around… Until next time, guys – all the best. FPA. –Bob Bell, 13 Pacific Ave., Sinking Spring, PA 19608; Cell: (302) 399-3240; reservist777@ yahoo.com Greetings, Illustrious Class of 1973.

Thanks for the inputs, guys.

Since I’m restricted to three pix here and I can’t post the extras to the website yet, I’ll post them to the class Facebook page. Search Facebook for USAFA 73 to find the page.

Access to the page is restricted to members, but it shouldn’t take long to get approval since anyone who is already a member can approve your request. And now, the news: Former USAF Chief of Staff and classmate Norty Schwartz, CS-34, was awarded the Thomas D. White

1973

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 113

CLASS NEWS National Defense Award by the Academy on 9 Sep 2015. Norty joins a list of distinguished recipients that includes scientists, presidents, luminaries and military, Congressional and Industry leaders. He is only the second grad to be so honored, after former Chief of Staff Gen Ron Fogleman. Well deserved Norty! A quick Internet search will take you to a fact sheet about the award and a video about Norty’s receiving it.

The story of “Miracle on the Hudson” pilot Sully Sullenberger, CS-18, will be coming to the big screen.

Clint Eastwood will direct and Tom Hanks will play Sully. Filming has already started, with the release planned for 2016.

Steve Lorenz, CS-15, will step down as CEO of the USAFA Endowment effective 31 December after four and a half years as chief fundraiser for the Academy. He currently (mid-Oct) has no plans Members other than spending more time 52% with family. Steve’s capstone fund-raising program, the Center for Character and Leadership Development new Polaris Hall, is scheduled to be officially opened before his departure.

The concept and plan for the Sabre Society building, which has transformed Donors the already iconic skyline of the 38 Academy, can be attributed to John Regni, CS-28, when he was Superintendent.

The first major event for Polaris Hall will be the upcoming National Character and Leadership Symposium (NCLS), 25-26 Feb 2016. ’73 has been invited to attend all sessions, meals, and the symposium dinner at no charge, but you still need to register online ASAP. As Flagship Sponsor, our class gifts and pledges to date exceed $2.0M, and we are widely recognized at the Academy for our lead-by-example role in increasing and sustaining the emphasis on character development. Come join us for two packed days of inspiring speakers, interaction with cadets and connecting with classmates and other grads.

Ed Hawkins, CS-11, recently retired as president of the Japan-America Society of Hawaii and was presented with an Imperial Decoration, the Order of the Rising Sun, from the Japanese Government for working to promote US-Japan relations. Sincerest congratulations, Ed. It’s not very often one of us gets honored by a foreign government.

Japanese Consul General (left) with Ed and Grace Hawkins at presentation of Order of the Rising Sun. Heard from several guys from CS-15 War Eagles.

114 · usafa.org

First up: Glyn Ottofy. He and his USAFA sweetheart, Nancy, have been married 20 years and are living in Las Vegas, where they’ve adopted and are raising their grandson. His post-AF resume includes construction, aerospace contracting, real estate, certified financial advisor and more. He’s currently working to launch several gaming websites based on a patented team gaming concept he obtained. I had to condense Glyn’s report considerably. For more details, see the USAFA 73 Facebook page.

Ken Ritchhart, CS-15, reports that he retired from civil service at DHS/CBP (Customs and Border Protection) last year. After he and Tena moved from Virginia to the Tampa area, he got bored and returned to work in July with Oracle Corporation as Vice President, Business Development & Strategic Planning.

Noel Johnson, CS-15, reported on the USAFA 73 Facebook page that he had moved to Southern California. If you’d like his address, check his comment to my post on the Facebook page about the Polaris Tower, or just contact me.

Bill McKenzie, CS-02, and his wife, Susan, climbed Mt. Whitney this summer, after also climbing Half Dome in Yosemite and hiking the John Muir Trail this summer.

Bill and Susan McKenzie at the summit of Mt. Whitney.

Ed Whitt, Seagram’s Seven, is retiring from Southwest Airlines in mid-December (turns 65 on 19 Dec). He’s starting a photography business with his daughter, Maggie Colvin, called C&W Photography.

You can find out more at the C&W Photography Facebook page. By the time this column is printed, Ed expects to have six grandchildren: two in Anchorage, AK; one in Scotts Valley, CA; and three down the street in Bryan, TX. CS-37 Smilers had a mini-reunion at the Navy Game in Annapolis this year. Bad weather and other factors cut the expected attendance roughly in half, but they made the best of it in spite of a disappointing game played in poor conditions. Geoff Michael sent the report in, but wasn’t in the picture. Maybe he was taking it. (See photo at the top of the next column.)

Skip Sanders posted a picture on the USAFA 73 Facebook page with Bruce & Janet Meyer, CS-16; Fil & Kim Thorn, CS-34; Bob & Pam Munson, CS-34; Skip & Joanne Sanders, CS-34; and Pat Nelson at the Lobster Trap on Cape Cod. Speaking of Bob Munson, that guy gets around!

Kirk Samelson, CS-35, reported that he and Bob rode their bikes (as in bicycles) from Portland, OR to Jackson, WY, where their wives met them to drive

CS-37 Mini-Reunion at Navy Game. Standing from left are Dee Bromberek, John Petro, Kathleen and Ed Heisey, Stefania Aulicino, Greg Cummins, Jim Condon, Msgr. Steve Rossetti, Lou Befano, and Dave Ochmanek (6th Squadron). them home. They only had rain 12 out of 13 days, and headwinds most of the time, but it was a great trip. People were friendly and the only mechanical problems were a couple of flat tires. Kirk sent a picture of them at the top of Teton Pass on their last day. See pic on Facebook.

Monnie Gore, CS-05, sent in another squadron mini-reunion picture, with 15 of 22 Fifth Squadron ’73 grads there. They had dinner at Monnie’s house in Manitou Springs on Friday, tailgated on Saturday afternoon, and the Wyoming game Saturday night. They also had lunch in Manitou on Saturday to make sure no one went hungry or thirsty. Great war stories and lies. Frat Fivers have been having an annual “reunion” for four or five years in case we can’t make it to the next official gig. See pic on Facebook.

Some events from CS-07, as reported by Stalker Reed: Glenn Johnston retired from Continental/United and moved into Pine Valley housing at USAFA. He says he has plenty of bunk space for wayward alumni to crash. Bill Paterson (retired USAir/American) and Al Nacke (Delta) made their 8th “once in a lifetime” fishing expedition in drought -stricken NW Nevada/ California in Sept. Stalker Reed (Delta) joined AFA roommate Al Kinback (American) and his wife, Debbie, at Yellowstone in Sept. Finally, Bill Hanlon, CS-07 DNG, is ground trekking around Sri Lanka as he continues sailing his 1924 Schooner around the world.

At the end of July, Jim and Jeanne Almeida moved to Fort Collins, CO and joined the ranks of the retired.

Contact me for address.

Until next time, “Here’s a toast… to the host… of the men we boast… the U.S. Air Force!” Mike Arnett. Class.

Scribe@R-NetServices.com.

–Mike Arnett, 5285 Copper Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918; (719) 310-8100; jmikearnett@ gmail.com; Class.Scribe@E-NetServices.com

1974

Hello Classmates. I hope you are well. Before I forget, would you send your Christmas card letters or notes as you may like so we can spread the news? At this time of our lives, I reckon some are cleaning to downsize as they move out to newer adventures or just get time enough to clean out the garage or other storage places. As you do that, remember that there may

be nuggets of gold better shared with classmates. Y’all saw a few pictures from French exchange.

Here’s another find. In the words of Nick Puzak: “Last October a few of you discussed a cat, rat, and coroner’s report that I admit was lost in the vacuum(s) of my mind. Then the clarity came at me… like a diamond bullet straight at my forehead. The attached memo and Certificate of Death are copies of the original items that were generously moved around the country by one employer or another. Cleanup efforts have just begun and rather than calling these long ignored boxes trash to be disMembers posed of I must now look at them 53% as time capsules. But like time capsules, you never know what you’ll find and it’s a certainty you don’t find a thing you intended to find. Most IS trash. R. Randolph, Craig, and T. Igor can verify their signatures and if desired can Sabre Society Donors have this historical article mailed to them free of charge. How it 43 was entrusted to me is unknown.

Proof again that the USAFA mission is to create characters of men.”

Now I cannot post the copy of the 20 Sep 73 Subject To letter from C/Capt. Riley R. Stevens to C/1C R. Crain Anderson/ Major Thomas W.C. Wilson/ IN TURN. [The copy of the letter is on a class website… email our scribe for web address.] There are a few sentences herewith extracted and retyped for exposition: “Subject: Rodent Removal. Paragraph 3: The investigating officer… identified as principle defendant, one small…. defenseless kitten answering to the assumed name of Sir Francis Drake. Paragraph 5: Defense council must object to obvious slander of our client.

[Scribe note: as alluded to in paragraph 4.] It has been irrefutable proven that the defendant is a qualified and certified rodent removal agent (RRA) and as such is deserving of a special position in the Squadron history and operational support mission. [Scribe note: etc., etc. providing descriptions of worthiness of T.H.E. mousetrap.]. Paragraph 6: Council moves that our client’s exile from the Squadron be reconsidered and that she be given a permanent position in the Squadron as RRA. Paragraph 7: The defense rests. // signed// [Scribe note: Despite the Attachment of a Death Certificate for “Biggy Rat” which was signed by the squadron coroner to bolster the case to retain the kitten as the RRA, the judge disapproved the request, and cited for the record, AFCR 50-8.]

A few other classmates exchanged thoughts on that it is 45 years ago we met at the Base of the Ramp (BOR) 29 June… and across stage 41 years ago on 5 June.

Another classmate reminded us that we met at Arnold Hall for a speech by somebody on some subject, and then reformed on the terrazzo for our first “inspection”.

Such corrections we received! Remember?

Rick “Grover” Cleaveland started the email passaround. A few notes on classmates, perhaps you know, but if not, read on. Mike “Nash” and Maggie Carter in Lakeland, FL as Oracle VP Advanced Customer Support. Lloyd Kocher, Lighthouse Point, FL. Richard and Deb Morris, Nashville, IL. John and

Pauline Verling, Collinsville, IL. Chris Lanzit and Linda, Pyrmont, Australia. Hobart and Valerie Bates, Dexter, MI. Stuart and Patty Lou Linder, Middletown, DE. Jim and Joyce Leonard, Rapid City, SD. Out of Omaha, NE comes some news on Dave and Bonita Newell. A few of you may already know; here’s a summary of the start, from their record on Caring Bridge. On March 27th, Dave was running up the steps, 2 at a time (like he has done many times before) and felt something pop in the back of his left knee. He thought he had “pulled” something -- so he wrapped it, put ice on it, and kept it elevated whenever he could. After 2 weeks the pain was gone, but he still had a lot of swelling around his knee and in the thigh, so he went to an ortho/sports doctor on April 10th.

[Scribe note: After a few more visits etc.] Another visit on May 6th to get into the hematologist (blood specialist) who suspected he had an allergy to Heparin. Tests now showed that the clot went from below his knee, up to his groin. He was immediately admitted him to the hospital. By now his whole leg was swollen, very painful, and his foot was becoming dark. May 14: both kidneys and liver seem to beginning to function again.

May 20, the doctor has marveled that the kidneys have improved from totally shut down, to working well, in less than a week! May 27, doctors decide to work on left foot to see how he tolerates the surgery on his toes before working on the right leg. Dave lost half of the left foot, toes to mid-foot. June 8, Dave lost right leg up to the knee joint, but doctor was able to slide the knee cap onto the end of the femur, which enables the prosthesis to hook onto the end of the femur instead of the hip.

Classmates Harry from Colorado and Ralph from Omaha have stopped by to visit with Dave and Bonita. Dave is home now, practicing walking with the prosthetic leg, and driving a revamped cab for his pickup which he uses to go to work. Their son Jesse has returned home from Afghanistan TDY. Dave and Bonita acknowledge that they have experienced many miracles, and are thankful to Jesus and to family and friends for their prayers, support through emails, and love. Healing, practicing, and praying continue.

We all have had experiences that touch our being.

One of the places my wife and I visited this summer was the place in Pennsylvania where Flight 93 flew into the ground on 9/11. I restudied the events. I came home and went through my notes and I don’t feel I have done right by one of our classmates…

Classmate Charles E. Jones I had thought he was on Flight 93, but I learned he was on Flight 11, the first plane that went into the towers. I have located Charles Edwards Jones on the Memorial in New York, and where it is located on Panel

74, North Memorial Pool. His name is carved into the Wall, third line from the top, fourth name from the left under FLIGHT 11. I acknowledge that pictures require a USAFA face to go with it. Hopefully, you can see the map as well as Charles’ picture. I feel we should salute Charles, and our own sons and daughters, nieces and nephews, and relatives who continue to defend our lives and freedoms in many ways on many fronts.

Thank you classmates for encouragement, support, and prayers for classmates, the Blue Line, and service men and women. May you live long and prosper.

–Joe Brezovic, 228 Senior Circle, Lompoc, CA 93436; (832) 285-4179; launchops74@gmail.com

1975

REUNION XL is in the books, and along with the nearly 600 registered classmates, family and friends, all I can say is “WOW!” Hopefully this article can do a reasonable job of summarizing for those who could not attend.

Kent Traylor, golf tournament honcho, summarized the event: 12th Squadron dominated the 88-player golf field again. Longest drive was Mark Volcheff (13th) with a monster shot in excess of 315 yards. Closest to the Pin on the 7th hole of the Robert Trent Jones Blue Course was Jack Van Ryn (12th). And the big CS-12 winners, with a score of 13 under par were Craig Naas, Jack Van Ryn, Craig Christen, and Steve Marino (handicap of 1), whose son is currently playing on the PGA Tour.

Like father, like son! Greg “Yumper” Black and Lance Grace kept the field lubricated and supplied with other amenities.

Golfers Opening with the return of Col (Ret) Waldo F. Dumbsquat, alter ego of ’75’s own Tom Laurie, the entire program featured new, exciting things at every turn. Otto Dieffenbach dazzled the noon meal crowd with his flying Superman on Friday. For videos and more, find Otto on Facebook, or at FlyGuyPromotions.

(This is an unpaid public service announcement.)

Larry Bryant and Bill Murray put on a great memorial service for all our GBNF brethren—thank you both and all others involved, for a very moving service. The promotion and retirement ceremony of Last Man Standing Mark Wells at a hangar on the airfield was well-attended and featured more than the usual family, friends, classmates, and well-wishers: There was a flyby almost every minute! Congratulations Mark— what’s next?

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 115

CLASS NEWS

Mark Wells gets his Stars.

Mike Matte emceed a superb banquet program, keeping things moving with insightful and playful comments throughout. The banquet also featured the return of the Lizard of Trou-town and the revelation of The Streak (cue Ray Stevens), our own Jerry Wallace.

The Gazette featured the story on its front page next day! Probably the most impressive feat of the past 40 years is that all those involved in The Streak kept it secret for all these years. Steve Duresky and Dave Wallace regaled us with their parody from the Pirates of Penzance, a tribute to Members the Class. Estelle Productions 47% produced another great video tribute, digging into the Wayback Machine for some shots from 5 July 1971 to the present, including GBNFs. The In the Stairwell Singers put on a good mix of a cappella music, and of course Sabre Society Donors everyone enjoyed the camaraderie and conversation, catching 40 up on things since the previous reunion.

Of course, it wasn’t all fun and games: We did do a little business, electing Bruce Mitchell our Class Senator, and hearing a well-researched presentation from Mark Beesley on options for our Class Gift to our beloved Blue Zoo. More to come on both of those.

19th squadron at lunch. From left are Buck Rogers, John Scherer, Jim Corrigan, and Dave Anhalt. The Playboys plaque is still on the wall in CS-19.

Scribe Emeritus Paul Kent reported that the CS-20 Old Trolls had a small turnout. Three of us attended the events. Three more, for a total of six, plus spouses (out of 19 living Old Trolls) had breakfast at Mike Goyden’s Colorado Springs digs on Saturday morning, rescheduled due to the evening game.

We talked about our health issues and when we are going to collect Social Security. We didn’t talk about cars or girls.

116 · usafa.org

CS-22 was represented by (front row) Tony & Cyndy Mahoney, Carolyn & Steve Schiemann, (back row) Bill & Cathy Carrothers, Don & Debbie Henney, Bill Estelle, Larry & Melinda Bryant, Dave & Sharon Myers and Tom & Linda Burns.

Bruce Correll and Ted Stallone marked a 40-year milestone of their own: A wager that the first one married has to send the other to Hawai’i. Bruce said that while both have been engaged several times, neither has taken The Plunge. I suggested a double wedding, with everything synchronized, but Bruce said they don’t trust each other enough to try that: The temptation to hesitate just a few seconds would blow it. So both remain (happily?) single. Ladies, this sounds like a challenge you should attack!

The Wyoming football game opened with all 40 squadrons carrying the Class of ’75’s golden guidons below their own unit flags. The young Zoomies delivered a win after a sluggish start, and the weather cooperated, staying mild throughout, so it was quite enjoyable for a night game.

to help teach the module on Emergency Operations Centers. His daughter, Kirsten, works with Charlie at CDHAM on disaster preparedness programs. (What heart attack?)

You Can Always Tell a Zoomie Department: From Jack Storer: Years ago when I was a young 727 Captain for Northwest Airlines, I picked up a trip into Colorado Springs. After the aircraft was re-boarded in the Springs, the lead flight attendant came into the cockpit and said “Captain I have a strange message for you from a passenger.” I said “Well let’s see what it says.” I opened the note and there were only 3 words “fast, neat, average”. Of course you know my response… I wrote “friendly, good, good!” and asked that she return the note to our passenger. Needless to say she looked at me like I was from Mars, but the grad in the back and the grad in the front sure got a good chuckle out of it!

As always, look for more photos on the class websites.

In closing, it has been my privilege to serve as Class Scribe for the past five years, so it’s time for someone else to have their share of fame, fortune, and glory.

Foster Bitton has assented, under no duress, to serve as Scribe for the next term. Foster is retiring to Castle Rock to be near his kids (and to golf and ski more), and the Scribe duties should give him something to do in his spare time. Standby for new contact information.

Thank you all for your support—it has been a blast learning more about many of you and reading about your families, travels, accomplishments, small world experiences, and daily lives. The best to The Best—see you around the campus!

–Jeff Chappell, 14729 Birken St., Herriman, UT 84096; (210) 488-6137; jtmjbda@sbcglobal.net

1976 Class Guidons at the Wyoming Game.

As always, an effort like the Reunion required mountains of leadership and teamwork, and at the risk of leaving someone out, we recognize the work of the reunion committee and thank them for a great job: Jeff Hackett, Larry Bryant, Larry Fariss, Bruce Mitchell, Bill Estelle, Kent Traylor, Scott Hente, Mark & Donna Wells, John Gaughan, Bruce Fritzsche, Jim Burling, Wayne Willis, Dean Cox, Rod Hennek, Marty Stytz, Keith and Chip Kerby.

Making the World a Safer Place Department: Charlie Beadling and Bill Lyerly were both in Accra, Ghana, in July to open a months-long effort to train 17 West African countries in all-hazards disaster preparedness, with an emphasis (for obvious reasons) on infectious disease outbreaks, like Ebola. The Center for Disaster and Humanitarian Assistance Medicine (CDHAM), part of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS, DoD medical school and Charlie’s second alma mater), was the lead implementing partner for USAFRICOM for this program, the West Africa Disaster Preparedness Initiative. Bill volunteered to come spend about a month in Ghana

Fellow ’76ers, Pikes Peak has snow! Winter in Colorado is on the way. By the time you get this the USAFA vs ARMY game should be history.

Sad News: Jim Shanley died 11 September with services in Hampton, VA 18 September. Please keep Jim’s family in your thoughts

and prayers.

Moving up/moving on: Mark Welsh awarded The Order of the Sword. Congrats to Mark! Joe Marchino says he will retire from civil service next year. He and Becky are contemplating some international travel.

Keep us posted Joe. General Class Stuff: I missed an input last time from Randy Schavrien that his son was THE Outstanding C-130J Weapons School graduate and also brought home the Flying Award. I also misspelled Schvarien. As a good ‘smack’ I can only say “No Excuse Sir!” and offer my apologies classmate.

Congrats to your son! Mike Ponzani completed the Peletonia 15, logging 77.6 miles in 5.5 hours of pedaling time. The ride supports cancer research. Good job Mike! Jerry McFarlane reports Susan has published her first book about time spent with her grandmother while growing up. If you are interested you can find it at http://www.amazon.com/dp/1515017222. Gary

Turnipseed sent a very nice, long note in tribute to his Dad and a hike they took in 2000. Gary and Cathy hiked to the same place to scatter his Dad’s ashes.

Thanks for sending me your note Gary. I did some follow up with Bruce Rasmussen about the Memorial service on the Terrazzo to honor all USAFA grads who have passed in the last year.

Bruce was assisting Bob Bush’s sister who wanted to attend.

Harry DeBruhl, still flying for FedEx in Anchorage, reports he has three grand daughters Members in Portland, and another son 49% recently moved back to Anchorage. Steve Berger and I were supposed to link up at the AOG Chapter President’s Conference but I had a short-notice family event and didn’t make it. Mike Fricano forwarded an email from Sabre Society Donors Bob Hinger with a reminder of the unfortunate outcome of 57 the 1975 USAFA vs Notre Dame football game. Bob included a youtube link, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_ y1hH_Lo_k&feature=youtu.be. Painful memory, that.

Norm Weinberg forwarded a Facebook update from Bob saying he is still fighting the good fight against his cancer. Willie Shelton also wrote about Bob’s challenges. Bob did some hospital time recently for an embolism. Keep Bob in your prayers classmates.

Willie also had some words of praise for the great job Mark Welsh is doing under very trying circumstances. Jim Dolan acknowledged my birthday note.

Mike Semenuk, Mike Henchey, and Jim Camden sent email updates. Chuck McHenry says daughter Schaeffer (2017) is the Wing Public Affairs NCO, daughter Kate has applied to four service academies, and daughter #3 say she will go to USAFA. Good luck to the two younger ones! Jim & Karen Boma and Lee & Deb Heitman joined me in September at the Rampart Chapter AOG picnic down at Rick & Billie Broome’s. The Broomes have been very gracious over the years and allow the Rampart Chapter to have our picnic at their beautiful home and yard. Rick was at the USAFA vs Navy game and saw Mark Welsh and many other ’76er’s. I got notes from Jack Catton, Mike Cunningham, Rich King, John Hope, Jed Alexander, Larry New, and John Ausink about the pre-game shindig at the Air House, kindly provided by Mark & Betty Welsh. Space permits me to only load one of the photos from the party.

vorable. Tony Przybyslawski sent a short video clip of the U-S-A-F-A cheer. Terry New, Larry New, Jack Catton, and Mark Penley attended the Redskins-Eagles game the next day. Tom Baltes finished his Portland to Portland 4,000-mile bike ride in early October with great support from Louise. Good on ya Tom! He had a chance to visit with Tom and Deb Trainor on a layover in Minnesota.

All report the 70+ ’76ers and spouses had a great time. Unfortunately the game results were not as fa-

Kurt Schendzielos ‘93, Jeff Larsen ’76, Joseph Hall ’92, and Robert Bell ‘69

Dan Moore sent a short note volunteering to assist with our reunion next year. Ahart Powers has been retired from the IRS for almost 3 years; he and Lillian still in Atlanta. John Hope sent a short note and a pic of himself at a recent SeaHawks game. Doug Fry reports daughter LtCol Stramblad (2000) is deploying for 6 months leaving behind 4, 2, and 10-month-old kiddos. Doug asks we keep her in our thoughts and prayers classmates.

Bob Bucher asked for some help contacting Cliff Simmons and Mike McGinty. Don & Helene Henager, still in Tucson, hosted a BBQ for the Southern Arizona AOG Chapter. No other ’76ers there but a good time was had by all. Don writes proposals for SAIC. Dave Ternes still flying A320 for Delta; sent a pic of him scuba diving in Roatan, Honduras. Rough life Dave! Charlie Vono says Nita just completed extensive chemotherapy and was recently broadsided. She wasn’t hurt seriously but had some choice words for the other driver. Garland & Susan Pannell still just south of Indianapolis with the last of five kids as a high school senior so almost empty-nesters. He pastors two small western Indiana congregations and substitute teaches on his days off. Scott Gough notes that with the retirement of a ’75 USAFA professor, John Andrew, Math Department permanent professor, is probably now the senior 0-6 in the USAF. Jeff Larsen attended a NATO Nuclear Power Symposium with several other grads and sent an inter-generational photo.

Walt & Mindy Washburn recently moved back to C-Springs. He and I have linked up a few times. Finally, Mike & Kitty McGinty were at the house Parents Weekend. Their son Sean is a new Doolie and Martha & I are his sponsor family. Martha & I will be doing some traveling in the next few months. Daughter in Florida has to PCS to Maxwell by mid-December with three little girls while her husband is deployed, so we will be down there to help out. And youngest daughter PCS’s to Osan in early December and we will visit her at Wright-Patterson before she goes.

NSTR: Stan Correia, Enrique Saa, Dave Berg, Tim Cantwell, Luckey Dunn, Mick Erdle, and Jose Santiago.

40th Reunion: Many questions, but we do not yet have a specific date. Send any ideas for events and trivia questions for 40 years that you may have. Should have more specific info soon.

Well classmates, again time to stick a fork in it.

Again lots of photos this time, but I am limited to three so I try to use the ones with the most faces/bellybuttons, or unusual items. Send me your notes, inputs, address updates, suggestion, junk mail, etc. and I will do my best to keep all of you in the loop. As always, if you are headed to the Springs, let me and the other locals know. Keep flying your flags and let our deployed troops know you have them in your thoughts and prayers. The Spirit of ’76 is STILL alive and well! Until next time. Beatty.

–Dan Beatty, 12196 Stanley Canyon Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80921; Home: (719) 488-1962; Cell: (719) 338-0276; whrlybrd76@aol.com

1977

Greetings from the site of flamed out Cubbiedom, where the city still mourns the lost hope that Back to the Future II would accurately predict the presence of Chicago’s most forlorn sports franchise in the World Series this year.

Anecdote Call: I’ve already mentioned Pat Burke’s (Denise) project that will collect personal stories of our time at USAFA for inclusion in some type of publication at the 40th Reunion in 2017. I realize that for those of you living in a “just in time” world, two years seems like an eternity. It’s not. Especially given the editing and review that Pat and others have to do over whatever it is you send in. So far he’s received a few stories, but we need a lot more. So sit down, turn the TV/iPad/computer off from whatever cat video you are perusing, power up those inactive brain cells, and remember, and then write down, your most humorous/challenging/embarrassing moments as a cadet. And some of you have great stories. Like the person who was dropping bags of vomit out of his sailplane during summer soaring in 1974. Or some of the epic Third Lieutenant adventures that I was privileged to hear about after I came back from my miserable three weeks at Loring.

Or stories of SERE – Bill Kittle (Colleen) can relate at least one story about my offering to throw him over the camp fence to freedom. Have I triggered any memories yet? A lot of you will have some free time in Checkpoints · December 2015 · 117

CLASS NEWS the upcoming holidays. Get your stuff together, and write it down and send it to Pat (at www.pwburke. com) please.

Base Touching: The pickings in the mail bag have been a little slim as of late, although there is plenty of activity on Facebook. Lee Gustin (Kathy) and Duff Muir (Mary) connected up a couple of times in the last few months. Lee comes to Denver annually for 777 training and he and Duff connected for a quick spin in Duff’s ragtop.

Mary also met up for a miserable Navy football game in October, although Duff said the fellowship more than made up for the lousy weather and bad performance by the Falcons. Thanks for the photo update, Duff, and wear a hat or some sunscreen next time.

Rex Williams (Linda), who is working in Washington, D.C. at AFDW, had a no-notice visitor walk into his office recently and tell him, “I saw your diploma on the wall. I’ve got one just like it.” It turns out it was Dean Allred (Carol), who works in comms and acquisition as a contractor in the building right across the street. Serendipity strikes again – Rex and Dean had not seen each other since graduation.

I had a great visit with Chip Cumm (Deborah), Rick Pialet (Renell) and Steve Wittman (Betsy) at the Wyoming football game in October. Steve manages to make it out for at least one Members game in the fall, and graciously 45% expanded his stay to include some time with my family. We made it to Rick and Chip’s giant tailgate – Thudgate – in advance of the kickoff. Rick flies for Northwest, but moonlights as Sabre Society an indefatigable supporter of all Donors things Air Force Academy Athlet33 ics. Chip retired as a one-star, and now is working for ANSER in Colorado Springs. Good to see all of these people, although our visit was way too short at the tailgate.

I’m going to wax a little philosophic here (which is what happens when I don’t have enough news to fill the column. You have been warned.): One of the absolute pleasures being a member of this class has provided me is the privilege of introducing people I ran around with in college to my kids. I say “privilege” because that’s exactly what it has been. Steve and I, along with my youngest son and a couple of other 118 · usafa.org

family members, hiked the Crags Trail on the northern slope of Pike’s Peak before the game. Steve spent a lot of time talking to Evan, and I reflected again on how thoughtful and gracious Steve was in talking to him.

Both of my sons have interacted with a number of you at various events. The experience has not only been positive, it has been transforming for them. My former roommate, Lynn Scott (Cynthia) made a huge impression on both of my kids when they were younger. In fact, my oldest, a SERE instructor, told me that he was a little disappointed with the cadets he taught at the Academy in 2012 because he thought they would all be like Dr. Scott. My guess is that you have all had similar experiences with your kids and classmates. You might reach out and tap these guys on the shoulder someday, and tell them thanks for the positive effect they had on your children.

ROG Report: This column’s pick from the expanded biographies on the Register site is Bobby Wilkes.

Bobby retired as a major general in 2008 following a distinguished career that saw him earn not one but two master’s degrees, one in public policy from GW, and one in aeronautical engineering at Embry Riddle.

He’s currently working as a VP at CACI in Fairfax, VA. Prior to that he was a deputy Assistant SecDef for Central Asia at the Pentagon. I’ll bet they miss your presence in that place now, Bobby.

Other updates: Dale Cafferata surfaced on the Facebook website from his place down in Florida.

I hope we’ll get some more information from him shortly. Jim Eustace (Gloria) also popped up on the site; it looks from his address that he and Dale aren’t too far apart from each other. Drop me a line, gentlemen, when you get a chance. Rocky Villafane (Janet) continues to fly for Delta; he and Janet have been seeing their way around the world based on some of the pictures I’ve looked at. Here’s a particularly good one:

Rocky and Janet Villafane in warmer times and climes.

Mark and Donna Clodfelter are apparently working their way through the fine wine and dining establishments of Northern and Central Virginia. I get regular updates from Donna and occasionally hear from Mark. Our communications are about to end, at least temporarily, with the start of basketball season and my noting, again, that Duke (my law school) is the national champion. Having now earned Mark’s opprobrium for the next six months, here’s a good shot of Mark and Dutch Remkes (Susan) at Dutch’s place in Merry Hill, NC:

Two men and a drink!

Ending: That’s it from your humble scribe for this quarter. I hope all of you enjoy a marvelous and happy holiday season with plenty of warmth and good cheer to offset what I’m sure will be miserable weather. Be seeing you.

–John “Lou” Michels, Jr., 4107 Harvey Ave., Western Springs, IL 60558; (312) 463-3412; jmichels@ lbbslaw.com; loumichels55@gmail.com

1978

Greetings ’78ers…

Sadly, the news of Steve Smith’s passing leads off this quarter. The AOG sent out the announcement back on 22 July with Steve’s death being on the 19th in Niceville. Steve had been an engineer in the aerospace business for many years in the Destin/Eglin area. His parents would still appreciate condolences I’m sure made out to Mr. and Mrs. Richard Smith; 213 Windsong Ct; Niceville, FL 32578-4806. Please consider sending something to them.

Several class heroes responded to my shameless plea for inputs leading off with Mike Spain. Mike is an A320 Delta captain and sent this great shot of four ’78ers hanging out in the Salt Lake City Delta Pilot Lounge. From left are fellow Reese 80-02 alum (talk about another galaxy far, far away) Terry Kelly, Tim Parker, Mace Goodhand, and Mike. Terry and Tim are 777 Captains and Mace is a 767 Captain. Looks like Delta is literally in good hands! Many thanks Mike… fly safe.

Also responding to my whimpering was Scott “Ferg” Ferguson. Ferg “retired” (emphasis his) from Microsoft in 1998 and has been a self-professed “bum” ever since. He does enjoy giving back by being active with the Alzheimer’s association as a donor with

the Zenith Society and an ambassador advocating Alzheimer’s legislative initiatives in both Washington State, where he lives (near Seattle), and Washington, D.C. In his own words: “I’ve been an avid road cyclist for some time, finishing the two-day, 200-mile STP (Seattle-to-Portland) classic the past nine years and the RSVP (Seattle to Vancouver, BC) three of the past four years.

[This year I missed the RSVP due to a dislocated finger after a hit-and-run incident with a car!]

A good friend’s wife, Ann, has Members been on a quest the past eight 45% years to ride from coast to coast in stages, a few states each year.

Two years ago we joined her and I rode with her from Grand Forks, ND to Milwaukee, WI. Last year we rode from there to Pittsburgh. This year we rode on Sabre Society via the Great Allegheny Passage Donors Train and the Chesapeake and 39 Ohio Towpath train to D.C. and on to the Delaware coast to finish her goal. My total for the three years was about 1900 miles, about half the country. Her 8-year total was over 3800 miles. My wife, Mary, switched off between doing some cycling and driving the “SAG” wagon. It was a great trip and we saw some beautiful scenery! The attached pic is of Ann’s daughter Bridget (also along for this year’s ride), Ann and me, in my Air Force cycling jersey, at the National Mall in D.C.!”

Great job Ferg; much appreciate the submission and am truly impressed with how good a shape you’re staying in!

Our next hero is fellow Torrejon Rhino aviator Alex Trujillo. Alex didn’t want to see a Phormer Phantom Phlyer whine too much so he sent in this very cool shot of him by the River Palace in Jaipur, India. The photo was taken a few years back while he was a contractor in Kabul and he was able to “escape” for a quick trip to India.

He retired from the AF as an O-6 in 2006 and worked as a contractor at USSOUTHCOM for three years in Miami. He married a Peruvian lady in 2009 moving to Lima, Peru where his bride is a partner in her own law firm (smart move Alex!). In 2010 he did a six-month stint at Camp Eggers as mentor to the Afghanistan Minister of Defense, then returned to Lima where he started an import business. He augments his time doing some adventure traveling, fishing when he

can, and finishing the restoration of his ’65 Mustang convertible. They are hoping to move back to the States to Angel Fire, NM, in 2017. Thanks for the great pic and news Alex...good luck on the move.

–Bob Kay, 40411 Tesoro Lane, Palmdale, CA 93551; Home: (661) 274-2201; Cell: (661) 9741417; robert.kay78@gmail.com

Allow me to start by sending kudos to John Pardo for another great article, and also to Brian Koechel and Geoff Mulligan for keeping us connected in between articles and events!

OK, enough pleasantries – let’s cut to the chase – I feel like I am getting a little stale as a scribe. I know – we are ALL getting a little stale, but this feels like Scribe Groundhog Day 2015 in October – just like last year and the years before that. I have been doing this since sometime in the ’83-’84 timeframe when Mike Van Hoomisen (Jan) sweet-talked me into doing this “just for a few years.” While I have truly enjoyed trying to stay connected with you all – and I did meet parts of “my contract” commitments – getting Carl Byers (Connie) to a reunion for instance – in other areas I have Members let you down. For instance, I never 45% found Ron Durban, or Rick Wyatt, or Joe DiFrancesco and never convinced Joe Grisham to show up at a reunion… I also have to devote some time to new challenges and the new horizons ahead… like when my Army 1st Lt son and his Sabre Society Donors new wife make Molly and me grandparents in mid-2016. So, I am 30 taking advantage of the “mandatory scribe retirement” at 30 years (that I just invented), and thus I am officially looking for a replacement scribe starting in the Fall of 2016.

That’s the bad news (I think)… the good news is I almost fit into my mess dress for my son’s wedding over Labor Day (pants are hopeless, but the jacket fits!)

Here is the Team Vazquez picture “before” the wedding of Dan and Hannah (before any one blasts me, they did not hire a photographer, so there is not a good photo with her):

1979

Also ran into Rick Reaser at the not-so-swell AF vs Navy game a couple of weekends ago. Rick is the VP for the L.A. AOG Chapter where he does a tremendous job of working events and keeping people informed.

He’s been a senior manager at Raytheon in El Segundo (space programs) for many years after retiring as an O-6 back in 2006 (is there a trend here?). The L.A. County USAFA Parents Club joined Rick’s AOG Chapter along with the USNA Parents Club for a joint game-watch party. We of course did pushups when AF scored but unfortunately (wouldn’t say this under any other circumstances!) we didn’t do very many.

The Navy guys just about killed themselves with all that they did though! All in all however everyone had a great time with several USAFA grads in attendance along with quite a few parents (more than Navy!). We have another joint game-watch scheduled for the AF v Army game in November when hopefully the AF side will do a bit more work.

Had a great dinner with Fred and Cheryl Zeitz when they came through town last month. Fred has been a chief engineer with BAE Systems since 2005 in the area of dynamic mission planning. He finds his way out to Vegas and Palmdale on occasion as he works rapid mission planning systems for aircraft that permit a single pilot to plan for and control multiple aircraft. We have this excellent Brazilian Bar B Que restaurant in town where (unfortunately) they keep bringing you a variety of exceptionally prepared meats (and other kinds of food) until you say uncle… a true carnivore’s delight. Fred and I decided to show our long-suffering wives how much we could put away… big mistake. It took me a couple of days to recover, but we sure enjoyed the experience.

Speaking of shameless plugs, wanted to give a shout out to our just-graduated Zoomie son (the one in the pic last quarter) who is continuing the family biz by signing up with his best friend to be the 2015 Scribe!

His first article is this quarter (with only minor arm twisting from the old man) and I am confident that he’ll write much better than I do. Am very proud of him for taking up the challenge and I can only hope he enjoys writing his columns as much as I do here.

Am happy to say that I am about out of space so that’ll do it for this quarter. My thanks again to you guys who made submissions and will continue asking for more of you guys to send stuff in. Stay warm this winter! God Bless. ’78 is Great!

From left are daughter Marley (22), 25-year-old son Dan (1st Lt, USA), wife Molly, moi, and son “A.J.” (20).

I restart with my SAASS and Maxwell racquetball buddy – Dr Tom Griffith. Tom is in the State Department in the world’s newest country -- South Sudan – which has been in a civil war since Dec 2013. When Checkpoints · December 2015 · 119

CLASS NEWS ment for Lt Gen Doug Robb’s retirement, and with Burt Field’s retirement, are we down to just Robin “Baba” Rand (Kim) and Frank Gorenc? Baba’s visit to be “my” AFCEA guest for our ROTC scholarship speaker this past April was a huge success, and is still talked about. Speaking of Robin and Frank, with some “Niner notables”, here is a just-in-time photo from the Falcon Foundation event the night before our win over Army.

OK, that’s about it fellas. Mike Watson is up next (MDWatson@firstcommand.com). I hope my last effort was acceptable, and look forward to seeing you and seeing who steps up! God Bless, Go Falcons, and Beat Army!

From left are Greg Brundidge, Scott Liard, Lindsey Pardun, Denny Maust, Steve Mueller, Burt Field, Brian Koechel, Steve Hoog, Steve Lepper, Randy Helms, Ray Sands, Bob Edmonds, Bill Rew, and Dale Jones. Attending but not in the picture: Andy Busch, Doug Robb, and Steve Newbold.

Tom was not brokering cease fires between warring government forces and rebels, he did run into Jeff Jackson who has also joined the State Department.

Jeff is now at our embassy in Kuwait Special shout out to Wild Weasel classmate, Rick Wallace (Sandy, AFA ’80) who was a Godsend last November. I had driven my son Dan cross-country to get on the Washington state ferries to Alaska, back when Dan got assigned to Ft Wainwright. Rick and Sandy were beyond gracious and hospitable – picked me up, put me up and fed me dinner… THANKS, BRO! Rick still flies for Alaska based out of SEATAC, and he has some kids of his own serving now – an Army 0-3 daughter (returning from Bagram in December) just about the time their O-2, USAF daughMembers ter, deploys to that same base!

50% Godspeed to them both, RW! Rick and Sandy just returned from the Class of ’80 reunion and found Pete DeGraaf and Karen (’80). Pete still provides personal financial counseling for individuals and families while continuing Sabre Society Donors to serve as a state representative and a committee chairman in the 38 Kansas House of Representatives.

Pete and Karen will have a total of 5 grand kids by the end of this year.

Bob Edmonds (Ann) shared that when Harris closed on the acquisition of Exelis in early June – Bubba -- with a nice executive buyout package in hand— got to take some time off this summer, get the handicap down to single digits and start the hunt for the right next role. He also sent me a picture of Lt Gen Steve “Boss” Hoog’s retirement, with a very impressive array of “Niners” making the event for Steve. “Boss” is – surprise – looking for full-time employment with the A&D industry. (See photo at top of page.)

Falcon Lax Bro Burt Waibel (Hope) is in Glenwood Springs flying for United and he is still telling me hunting stories that always end with “… and then Jim (Flickinger) misses!”

I saw D.J. Jowers (Mary) last week at a Daedalions dinner meeting. D.J. is working as a contractor on the JSTARS Recap program. D.J. graduates two kids from Littleton High School this coming summer. He shared that Dave Gibbs is still in Vegas working RPA mainte120 · usafa.org

nance at Creech AFB. D.J. also told me Juan Ramirez still works for Odyssey in COS. Speaking of COS, Mark Pimentel (Betsy) is still in COS, and still big into Apple and consulting for Apple, having leveraged his Comp Sci most famously.

Closer to my own home -- Ken Mattern (Pam) is a legal star in Raytheon’s DC office and loving commuting to DC each week from Boston, and lounging in his New Hampshire lake estate with the grandkids – well the latter for sure. Raytheon also has a formidable contingent in Tucson – Randy Gricius (Vicki), Chris King and Steve Dickman (Anita). They also keep track of SWA pilot-folk like Eddie Schumacher for me.

Gotta’ love Facebook, where I get to live vicariously with Les Long (racing cars) and his veritable Who’s Who of “Friended” ’Niners Freddie Jacobsen, Ted Dubose, Archie Rippetto, Tom Foerstch, Don McChesney and Colleen Snyder – wait! Colleen Snyder? Facebook is also where I “stalk” Bill Gregory.

Bill is sporting a new patch – a Master CFI Aerobatic instructor. I am told this is the best of the best of flight and that there are very few of these accreditations – a “true Master of his craft.”

I have received a few emails from my main men from CS-35 of Weasel fame. Believe it or not, I still marvel that Carl Byers actually made and even enjoyed his first reunion last year with his better half, Connie – making the jaunt from Cedar Rapids, IA only twice as S-L-O-W as he did with the 1979 Trans Am with the 6.6L V8… last year. Carl just switched A&E jobs in Iowa. Jim Sims (Emilie) is still in Oneonta, AL and Bill Murphy still makes the commute from Yorktown to DC every week.

From left are “Doc” Colvin, Gen Robin Rand, Steve Mueller, Gen Frank Gorenc, Pete Bunce, and Bob Edmonds.

OK, let’s wrap this one up… I saw the announce-

-Bud Vazquez, budvazquez@msn.com

From the looks on your faces, “A good time was had by all!” is a proper summation of our 35th reunion. We certainly owe big thanks to our organizers, Jeff Mielke (Chairman), Steve Gonzales, MJ (Van Valkenburg) Kellenbence, Gene Mitchell, Steve Prileszky, and Tanya (Senz) Regan. There is also a large amount of support from the AOG, specifically, Michele Bergeman, that makes these things happen.

As you probably know, Stacey planned the final sendoff for her husband, Bill Andrews, the day before our reunion at the Academy Cemetery. Despite the rain, I’m told by several of you it was well-attended and proper. Also, the Chapel folks and Cadet Choir did a wonderful job at our class memorial ceremony.

After the deadline of my last input, the AOG distributed the announcement that Robert E. Schley passed away back in June.

From the Welcome Social.

Walt Carlson retired from the Members FedEx cockpit to an ocean55% view home that was once Navy housing at Subic Bay, Philippines. He’s there with his wife and two young sons. They even brought Walt’s mother to live with them in an apartment on Sabre Society their property. After a long stint Donors in Sacramento/Beale (U-2 stuff), 41 Auggie Augst moved to Tucson.

He related how he’d had no bad Air Force assignments, including Assistant Air Attaché in Canberra, Australia. Steve (Cindy) Rainey, after becoming empty-nesters, has cut his commute from 1.5 hours to nothing and now lives just outside the gate at Edwards AFB. He continues to ply his test-pilot trade with Lockheed, flying F-22 Raptors, etc. Steve still gets to routinely beat-up on younger fighter pilots in simulated dogfights. Like several of us, Kelley Humphrey retired (mostly in tactical airlift) and got into a commercial cockpit. He was with American, lived in Los Angeles, and was soon furloughed after 9/11.

1980

After a stint as a financial advisor, he was recalled by AA and moved to Miami eight years ago.

Wet hikers. Tanya Regan was the force behind the reunion hike. Although the entire event was in a cold rain, it did not dampen our spirits on the beautiful trek. Here is a photo of the on-time group of hikers at the starting point. In the front row from left are June (VanHorn) Lindner, Tanya, Yushin & Jade Gjermundsen. Middle (scattered) row: Steve Gonzales, Steve & Suzanne Prileszky, Meaghan & Danielle Matus, Ed Gjermundsen, Karen (Lusk) Kaylor. Back row: Tom Broe, Kent Johnson, Sean Scully, Steve Matus, Mark Reidinger, me, Bev Plosa-Bowser, Ken Kaylor. Another large group arrived just after the first started on the trail, which included Rich Goodwin, Sue (Henke) Laushine, Brian Tighe, Bruce Townsend, and Don Ralph and family.

About-to-get-wet hikers.

Steve Matus has a set of triplets and lives in rural Indiana. His two girls are in the photo wearing AF Soccer jackets. Hmmm, post high school plans? Steve (Suzanne) Prileszky had a home in Monument while stationed at the Zoo. They kept it rented while they were gone (to include tough assignments, like Assistant Air Attaché in Budapest) and put Steve’s pilot bonuses into the mortgage. They now live debt-free.

At one point, Steve was an evaluator on the C-12, so it’s fitting his USAFA grad/son is flying the MC-12 at Beale AFB. Karen (Lusk) (Ken ’78) Kaylor started out in Comms. She filled all kinds of squares along the way to becoming a below-the-zone commander in Intel: maintenance, ASTRA budgeter, speech writer, IG, protocol, logistics, and training. What struck me most during the conversation was how much they were willing to bend to help the Air Force, including multi-year remote assignments, but how reluctant the personnel folks were to spend a little effort to keep them together.

Amazing, given Ken is a doc and they could go almost anywhere. Instead, they both made multiple PCS moves apart—until they were worn down by the whole process and retired.

Bev (Cameron) Plosa-Bowser sprung a surprise when she retired. Although they had family in Florida, Bev decided to move to her childhood hometown outside Philadelphia, get a degree in political management, and run for congress! With only $20K collected, she got 38% of the vote against an incumbent opponent with $1.5 million. Kent Johnson wins the He Hasn’t Aged a Bit award. He began his post-UPT life flying T-43s (B737s) at Mather, then onto AC-130s at Hurlburt. When he was getting out, American called first, so that’s where he is, commuting out of Sacramento.

Fellow reunion hiker Bill (Debbie) Harper and his dog met the group of us soggy trodders by starting at a different point, close to his basecamp. He took his RV camper on a solo, “maybe-post-retirement” trip from Tallahassee to Michigan, to close up their cabin; then over to Yellowstone, to do some fly fishing and hiking/camping; then to our reunion, staying at the Academy’s FamCamp. It reminded me of John Steinbeck’s Travels with Charlie. Bill has a colorful work/flying story: After being a T-38 FAIP, he was sent to helos. Finishing up there, he decided he wanted to try fighters, so he joined the Puerto Rico ANG to fly A-7s. After that experience, he slid over to rescue H60s at Patrick AFB. Along the way, he started flying for NetJets Aviation, where he’s been for 14 years (at the same time as I was at NetJets, but didn’t know it!). He finished his AF time as an Academy ALO. Bill is now deciding whether or not to return to NetJets, pending some scrutiny by the FAA’s medical quagmire.

The Fellowship Meeting at the reunion was at the same time as the Academic Open House on the Hill. Regardless, there were several in attendance.

Don (Teresa) Neal headed it up. Don started out in Security Forces and continued in the Reserves during/ after law school, attaining O-6. He wasn’t ready to be called Grandpa so he trained his grandchildren to call him, Colonel! Entrenched in Austin for many years, he’s now the #2 lawyer for the state of Texas.

Lorrie (Roemish) (Georges) Bejjani retired from the AF in the comms/info/intel field while in DC. They remain in Virginia. Georges does business consulting projects and Lorrie, after years of volunteering in their children’s school, was asked by the principal to come to work in the classroom.

One recurring theme from this meeting—and from listening to the many other conversations at the reunion—was how many of us are being challenged by “raising” adult children, parenting parents, and the many health-related events with ourselves and our families. These are wonderful opportunities to reachout to one another for support and encouragement.

There have been some tough times; thankfully, there have been many wonderful, uplifting stories as well.

got bored just flying for AA out of Dallas. He bid down to copilot, to control his schedule, and went to law school during the evenings. Currently, he’s involved with the AA and US Airways seniority list merger. Oh, he also has a security company “on the side.”

Ed (Laura) Folsom and their lovely daughter Sarah were a bit late to the Friday bash and our table had three holes, so I got to catch up with them for a while.

Ed was flying with United in San Francisco for many years and even had a stint in the Reserves, flying the HH-60 at Moffett. They finally decided life would be better near sunny San Diego, which is where they reside now. Mo Tritle lives in one of my favorite places, Prescott, AZ. She is heavily involved in an organization that makes quilts for hospice groups. Al Schillinger left the AF after a stint as an instructor pilot at Luke AFB. He worked for two Phoenix companies that bought and sold apartments then decided, “Hey, I can do this on my own.” That was back in the early ’90s and he’s still going strong. Joe Lanni, one of our large crop of test pilots, lives in Dayton and is with Lockheed.

Not there. Anne (Martin) Fletcher missed the reunion. Weak excuse: She just landed a job in the front seat of a bizjet—after not flying for 19 years!

Smiling faces. I don’t use Facebook for much, but grabbed these pics from our class page.

Jack Barker and Mark Perusse, CS-35, by the infamous F-4.

Here is one of a bunch of random classmates who were wandering near Arnold Hall:

June (VanHorn) Lindner, Georges and Lorrie Bejjani, and Don Neal.

Friday’s dinner. I saw an old Doolie-year roommate, Kurt Bullard, for the first time in . . . forever. He decided to take a chance on our behavior and bring his fiancée, Jacqueline, to meet us. Kurt was a good example of someone that knew how to study at the Zoo—but it was a lesson mostly lost on me! Kurt’s civilian career has been mainly consulting at IT firms.

He currently lives in downtown Chicago, across the street from his office (!), where he continues his 12year stint with HP in technical sales. Mark Stephens

In the Shadow of the Polaris Oculus.

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 121

CLASS NEWS Thought I’d include one squadron with a large turnout as well as a classy pose:

Hyper Vipers of CS-14.

My desire was for you to see new names here. How nice. You, spouses, and those from other classes, can continue to help. End of advertisement. It was profoundly great seeing all of you! Don –Don Myers, 401 Chambray Hill, Peachtree City, GA 30269-4247; (770) 631-1429; DMyers80@ hotmail.com; FB group: “USAFA Class of 1980”; Class Website: www.usafa80.org

1981

It has been a challenging year for our football team with a lot of injuries. (Much like 2014.) Losing to Navy always stings and this year the midshipmen dominated. I think we had several ’81ers attend that rainy day (John Mahoney, Pam McGinty, and Bruce Stark). This will be a holiday edition by the time you receive this, so I wish all of you a great holiday season and hope you get to relax with family and friends.

Class News: Bruce Stark attended a post Andrews AFB Airshow party put on by Mo Beale. Bruce, Pam McGinty, and Mo got together! Mo is still working in the F35 Program Office in Crystal City; Pam is working at SAF/IA (International Affairs); and Bruce just started working for SAF/IEN (AF Energy). Bruce and Pam work at the Pentagon. (I had a picture of Randy and m e in Colorado Springs but I thought I would go with a picture of the beautiful people)

Mo Beale, Pam McGinty, and Bruce Stark.

My wife, Debbie, and I had a great lunch with Randy Worrall this Fall. He had a rare layover in Colorado Springs, so we caught up on classmates and reminisced about our younger days. Major General Kurt Neubauer joined the big group of ’81ers retired from active duty late July. Several Members ’81ers joined Kurt for the retire46% ment. Mike “Lemmer” Lemrond, Paul “Monty” Montgomery, Jim Hedrick, and Bob “Moons” Kelly attended to celebrate Kurt’s marvelous career. Mike, Jim, and Bob left our 2 degree year. Lemmer finished his undergrad work Sabre Society in Petroleum Engineering at Donors Oklahoma while Jim Hedrick and 25 Bob Kelly became lawyers. No word on what Kurt is up to now.

Congrats Kurt on your service and accomplishments!

Mike Lemrond, Paul Montgomery, Jim Hedrick, Kurt Neubauer, and Bob Kelly.

Jake Jakobi sent a photo of him with a pair of ’88ers at the Vail lacrosse tournament. Jake is going to get a knee replacement and says he’ll be back on the field next year. Hard to believe we (’81ers) are getting knee replacements. I still have thoughts of all of us in our late teens, early 20s with unlimited energy. What happened?

122 · usafa.org

Mike Blouin ’88, Jake Jakobi ’81, and Floyd Dunston ’88 in Vail, CO. Another classmate left us this Fall, Bret Wilson (CS21). Bret was the Deputy A6 at the Air Force Reserve Command. Please keep Bret and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Keep in touch! Our USAFA Class of 1981 Facebook page now has 152 members and is fairly active. We will not have information on a weekend for our reunion until the 2016 football schedule is released. (Probably early 2016.) I will post any info on our reunion as it is available.

For you Texans, AF will be playing New Mexico in the Cotton Bowl (Dallas) on October 15th next year. I plan to be there and I hope to see lots of the ’81 Texans there.

I am sure the AOG will have a great tailgate party for us.

Please send me your holiday updates and pictures!

–Rich Trentman, 11102 Asbee St., Falcon, CO 80831-8170; Work: (719) 452-7708; Cell: (719) 6409586; Facebook: USAFA Class of 1981; rtrentman@ falconbroadband.net; Class Website: www.usafa81.com

1982

Greetings Redtags!

Although it’s been a slow quarter for inputs, I’m afraid I must lead off with sad news. We learned in late August that Matteo (Matt) Fulton passed away on 12 Aug 2015. I don’t have any details of the circumstances surrounding his death. Matt was interred at the Academy on 28 Aug following a funeral service held in the Cadet Protestant Chapel. The family has suggested that donations be made to The Humane Society (The Humane Society of the United States; 2100 L. St., NW; Washington, D.C. 20037 (866) 720-2676, www. humanesociety.org). Condolences may be sent to his family in care of his wife, Michelle (Mrs. Michelle Fulton; 745 S. Mesa Hills Dr. Apt. 279; El Paso, TX 79912).

Matt was VP of operations at New Breed Logistics in Ft. Worth, TX. I know I speak for all of us when I say Matt and his family are in our thoughts and prayers.

On a more pleasant note, I learned via Joe Kim that Maj Gen Brian Neal is now serving as Deputy Director of the Air National Guard in D.C. A long-time C-130 pilot, Brian joined the Guard in 1989. Among other things, he served as the Commander, Air National Guard Readiness Center and as the Deputy Director for Nuclear, Homeland Defense, and Current Operations on The Joint Staff. Way to go, Brian!

For his part, Brig Gen Joe Kim left his job as the Deputy Adjutant General for the Hawaii Guard and is now serving in a cabinet-level position as the Deputy Director for the Hawaii State Department of Taxation. He was confirmed by the state Senate and began his duties in April 2015.

He will continue as a part-timer in the Hawaii National Guard as the Assistant Adjutant General, Air. Another guy who recently switched jobs is Dan Harrier. Dan let me know that he joined TekSouth, an IT services company headquartered near Birmingham, AL and serving the Federal and commercial sectors. Dan is a data automation developer, leveraging the Microsoft Office suite of applications to integrate and automate accounting and finance data for various USAF organizations. Dan was formerly with USAA and moved to TekSouth in April 2015.

And finally, in the “blast from the past” department, I received an e-mail last month from Col (Ret) Vic Thacker, ’63. Not all of you will remember him, but anyone who was in the Cadet Chorale will recall that he was our OIC. Vic and his wife, Mary T, also had a stake in a restaurant called Figaro’s in C-Springs, known equally well for its opera-singing wait staff and its outstanding food. Vic served on the USAFA faculty, so some of you may remember him from there as well. He told me he retired for the fourth and final time in 2011 as the VP for Academic Members Affairs at Davis & Elkins College 45% in West Virginia. He and Mary T moved to San Antonio and lived the urban life in a condo for three years. But as of last May, they’ve settled permanently in Colorado Springs. They’re in a retirement community called MacKenzie Sabre Society Donors Place (the corner of Union and 32 Fillmore). They both turned 74 this summer, and are relatively healthy. Vic says they enjoy traveling, and “have to” (!) go to London twice a year to see two of their grandchildren. Their older daughter, Sarah, has three kids who are seniors in college this year. So, next year they’ll have graduations in the spring and then celebrate their 75th birthdays. Cool milestones! I’m sure they’d love to hear from any of us next time we’re in the Springs.

So, that’s pretty much it! Last time I told you that Ellen and I would have been to her 35th reunion by the time you read that article. Well, the AOG beat my estimate and got the last issue out just before the reunion.

So, Ellen and I depart in two days for C-Springs. We’re looking forward to it! That is, as long as it’s not snowing for the football game…

Until next time, your humble scribe, Ratman.

So are you guys feeling old today? I think even our youngest classmate is 54 now. I was talking to Ted Hilbun ’75. He sponsors one of his classmates’ kids. But two of his classmates have grandchildren at USAFA as Doolies; they are OLD! So who will be our first classmate to admit to having a grandchild at USAFA? Nancy (Burdick) and Chris Liggett could be in the running since they should be grandparents before next summer.

–Jim Ratti, 2860 Arbor Pointe Drive, Middletown, OH 45042; (937)760-2333; rattijm@mindspring.com

Phil Dismukes is enjoying life as a West Point dad.

I was surprised he didn’t wear his custom shirt that boasts “AF GRAD, West Point DAD”.

Mike Oliver has a son at West Point now, too. John Gustafson is rooting hard for Texas A&M where his son JJ plays outside linebacker. Anyone have children at Navy or the Citadel?

Following a few Facebook posts: Beth (Arvin) Iliff was touring Vienna and Bratislava with her sister and niece. I kept expecting to hear that she ran into Sally (Jackson) Crain who was gallivanting about Rome about the same time.

1983

How many of you are suffering from your first child going off to college? I suggest using the Cindy (Fujimoto) Norman solution. Cindy spends nearly all her weekends up at VMI. Jim Norman had to buy a new truck – she puts so many miles on their vehicles. And for weekends she can’t make it, she made her son join the football team so she can watch him on TV. Check out the ’83 Facebook page and then Cindy’s. She has a matching #51 VMI football jersey.

Beth (Henkener, ‘84) and Chris Austin, 2LT Ashley Packett, proud papa Mitch Packett and Ben Hulsey at Maxwell AFB. Ashley is on an AF scholarship to med school at East Carolina University. Ben Hulsey retired in Montgomery after his last assignment as Chief of Staff at Air University. Anne and Mitch Packett live in Wake Forest just outside Raleigh and he is a 757/767 captain for UPS. Chris and Beth Austin live in Peachtree City, GA where Chris flies the 767 for Delta and Beth is on the 777 with United.

Tom Buckner is now working for NATO in Brussels.

He is an International Staff Officer working Unmanned Aircraft System issues.

From constant posts on Facebook, I assume Kenny Guevarra is not working too hard as a pilot for Delta.

He seems to have plenty of time to play some farm animal game. (I think Jodi or one of his girls may use his I-pad when he is on trips)

Cliff Latta, Brian Cumming, Mike Finley and Landis Cook all attended the 92 TFS Skull Reunion 9/15.

Getting to the 4x4 area north of Corolla on the Outer Banks of North Carolina they drove within 4 blocks of my house. If they took the short cut, they drove past my mailbox.

I promised Susan (Roth) Hirst I wouldn’t put a photo in Checkpoints of her at the Granite Games where she placed 2nd in the 50+ division. The Granite Games look like the PFT on steroids! She should take a cadet team with her next year.

My wife, Cherri, and I visited Members Ron and Tonia Graves in York, 47% VA on our way up to DC for a retirement. Ron recently upgraded to Capt with United and has managed to get a bid back to DC. I have a photo of Ron with his new shiny USAFA Virginia license plate. We both want to know Sabre Society who got the “1983AF” plate. Had Donors a great visit and expect him and 37 Landis Cook to ride their Harley’s down to visit.

Gen Dave Goldfein was the officiating officer for the retirement of CH BG Bobby Page that we went to DC to attend. Someone said we heard two sermons that day: one from Chaplain Page and the other from brother Goldfein. My surprises weren’t complete until MG Kathy (Strand) Johnson joined us for the retirement dinner and was even assigned to the Texasthemed “Amarillo” table with us.

As I wrap up this article I want to share that Mark Murphy has qualified for the 2016 Boston Marathon.

He is raising critical funds for cancer research. Check out his Facebook page to get more info.

Our next scribe is Ray Blust. Zip him an email at rjmablust@comcast.net, or call (304) 281-1621.

I’m looking forward to our 35th year class reunion… still NO doubt about my choice of football games for our reunion weekend… Go Army, beat Air Force! (Ed note: Not this year!)

-W. Wade Wheeler, 64 Hickory Train, Southern Shores, NC 27949; (252) 207-4776; wwade83@ me.com

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 123

CLASS NEWS Classmate of the quarter: Congrats to Maj Gen Paul McGuillicuddy on being the first to attain this honor. Pickle and Mary Jo were unbelievably gracious hosts when Bob Perry and I went out to the USAFA game vs Hawaii. It was a fantastic weekend with USAFA trouncing the Rainbow Warriors 58-7. Because of him, I survived surfing and was able to return relatively unscathed.

Updates: Steve Flach was the first to write in and won 2 free tickets to his next USAFA event (airfare not included). He reports that they are enjoying being in Cincinnati living on TPC Rivers Bend and he is back to playing golf with his new hip. Erik and Lily Ann are keeping him busy. Spending time with John and Maria Walsh Sheedy. Planning Thanksgiving with Jay Esmay and Roger Sit in MSP. He is also building avionics for EELV at L3 Cincinnati Members Electronics.

46% Tom Wilson traverses the globe both with work and without. He saw Tim and Monica (Schweitz) Smith at the Navy game. It was cold, windy and rainy, but a great time was had by all. He also saw the great mind of Sabre Society Carl Farquhar there too.

Donors John Flint is a DFW 737 FO 24 with American Airlines, living in Irving, Texas. Also LOSA Observer. Enjoying time with his ten-year-old daughter Margo.

Scott “Kaiser” Wilhelm is knocking off some big items from his (or anyone’s) bucket list. He recently went down to Orlando to fly a P-51 with the folks at Stallion 51. In his third year of checking off stuff (did Great White shark diving this summer, ran the bulls in Pamplona last summer and hiked the Inca Trail the year before), but really enjoyed this one.

Jeff Burum is doing well. Although he is finally rated 100% totally and permanently disabled with VA from Gulf War Illness; chem and biowarfare from when he was in Saudi 93-94 during UN disarmament operations and USAF Operation Southern Watch.

He is in three national medical studies on GWI and actively participates in the VA Accountability Act and Choice VA reform programs, which he began five years ago. He’s also going to leading edge therapy of uv/ozone iv blood therapy and using Medsonics.

Great to hear from you, Jeff.

Scott Welker is now a general surgeon in Clearlake, CA. Married 29 years, two adult kids through college; one’s an engineer and the other is headed to med school next fall.

Eric Wallace and his Left Hand Brewing took 3 medals for the third Great American Beer Fest in a row. Gold for the third time for Fade to Black Export Stout (entered only three times as well), bronze for Sawtooth ale and Black Jack Porter (both medaled as far back as 1994). They took second place for medium sized brewery of the year for the third year in a row!

Fantastic!

1984

124 · usafa.org

Joe Sherman scratched his paragliding itch in Santa Barbara. He needed something new after trashing his knee doing the ultramarathon/ironman thing over the last few years. If any of you have that need, feel free to give him a call.

Jeff and Gina Hays are grandparents. Avery Margaret Roberts was born 15 Oct. Which reminds me, on little Avery’s birthday next year, the Falcons take on New Mexico in the Cotton Bowl during the State Fair of Texas. I know, this is probably not enough notice to get on Der Kaisers bucket list schedule, but I hope that for the rest of us, you can make the trip down to Dallas.

Jeff and Brenda Follansbee reported that son, Clark, had his T-38 dollar ride and is moving right along in UPT. Satellite business is still exciting, but they are looking forward to ski season, too.

Paul and Anne Suarez with Jamie and Lynn Hills at a recent Razorback game.

Paul Suarez sent a photo of his wife, Anne, with Jamie Hills and his wife, Lynn, taking in an Arkansas Razorbacks game in Fayetteville earlier this season.

They also ran into Coach Ken Hatfield. Having moved to NW Arkansas from DC recently as a result of taking a job with Walmart’s IT Dept, he searched the AOG directory to find other grads and located a classmate! Jamie moved down here about 7 years ago after retiring from flying C-141s, and also works for “the world’s largest retailer.” Anne and he were pleased to reconnect and also learned there’s an active AOG chapter there -- great to be in their company and other ’84ers should look them up if you’re traveling through the area!

So there you have it. Make sure you check out www.usafa84.com for more info. Also, I would like to hear from any and all small business owners as there is a directory coming out in the near future. Have a great 2016 and KEEP IN TOUCH. Jens –Mike Jensen, 6547 N. Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80918; (719) 338-3570; Web Page: www. usafa84.com; Email: USAFA1984@gmail.com; Facebook: USAF Academy 1984; Twitter: @USAFA84 Greetings ’85ers!

The reunion was a spectacular success, and a great time was had by all who attended. Unfortunately, I was not able to make it, so I had to experience it via Facebook. I really enjoyed all the pictures of the many events. It was great to see the YouTube videos of our class reintroducing Spirit Cheese during Air Force’s decisive victory over Wyoming. Many thanks to all those who worked so tirelessly to make the reunion the best one yet. Special thanks go to the Reunion Committee of Tish (Dierlam) Norman, Joyce Washington, Lynn Steer, and Debbie Harris. Gary Rafferty hosted the Golf Tournament.

Members The Memorial Service was a very 45% moving tribute to our fallen classmates thanks to Michael Canino, Deb Ings, and Paulette (Rivera) Hendrickson.

Checkpoints as a whole has experienced a decrease in the Class News submittals. Facebook Sabre Society and social media allows real-time Donors sharing of news, and are thus 20 rendering printed Class News both costly and obsolete. If you are interested in ensuring Checkpoints continues to include Class News in each edition, I encourage you to submit photos and commentaries of stories relevant

1985

The Class of ‘85 Reunion

Victor Haynes (Gilligan) and the “Skipper” Chris Troiano showing how layovers can be fun!

Chris Troiano sent a photo of Victor Haynes and himself when Captain Haynes was on a layover at Hyatt Coconut Point (in background) in Ft Myers recently. Chris rescued him from his suffering with a 3-hour tour of SW Florida backwaters. Really, “a 3 tour? A 3-hour tour?” Well played!

The Ladies of ‘85

Hi everyone, Your favorite assistant scribe here with another very short update. When I say short, I mean two!

First, I have an update from Roger Thrasher. Roger says, “I commissioned my son Carl Thrasher, Class of 2015. He gave me a ‘new’ saber to match the ‘old’ saber I have from our days. He’s now living the good life as a graduate student out at the University of Washington.”

1986

Toi (Corns) Screnci, Miguel Carter, Charlene (Jardin) Harding, and Danielle (Hatchett) Hargrove enjoying the football game.

at the recent AFA Air & Space Convention. He sends “kudos to Jay Ducharme for not only keeping his “Falcon Buddy Tie” from our old and unlamented freshmen blue blazer ensemble, but also rocking it…”

If only Roger had gotten a better picture of Jay.

Jay Ducharme’s Falcon Buddy Tie still lives!

Rob Dooley, Ed Nagler, Jim Taylor, Matt Byrd, and Phil Beaudoin reminisce on their year as Sheppard AFB UPT class 86-07. to our class. I am always accepting inputs, and post notices of publication deadlines on the class Facebook page.

I look forward to hearing from you. ‘85 Best Alive!

Scott

Roger and Carl Thrasher Roger provided the second photo which was taken

The last time I reported in, I had told you I was prepping to head for Kabul, Afghanistan. Well, I had several classmates as well as my wife tell me I was too old for something that risky. Well I’m not too old for that, but I am also not too old to realize I made a mistake, listen to my wife, and Members change my mind. So I’m sticking 41% around the Pentagon for the time being.

Two weeks ago (from when I am writing this, not when you are reading this), my family got the chance to attend the Air Force vs Navy game. We were cold, wet, Sabre Society and ultimately disappointed.

Donors While the game didn’t go well at 20 all, I got to meet a lot of people including the new Chief of Chaplains, our own MGen Dondi Costin.

Dondi Costin, at left, and Lawrence Cooper.

As you can see in the photo, he’s looking quite good for such an old general officer.

-W. Scott Carney, P.O. Box 5, Pembroke, ME 04666; USAFA.Class.of.1985@gmail.com

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 125

CLASS NEWS

Pre-game USAFA v USNA. Mary, Zarina and Lawrence Cooper.

That’s it for this installment. Next time, Bob Colella is up at bat. Respectfully, your assistant scribe, Lawrence Cooper.

joining up for dinner and a chance to see octogenarian band “Cheap Trick” perform. Ken and Dave were taking a break from the Register Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI), seen here dipping front wheels in the Mississippi at the end of the 515-mile, seven-day event. Ken is a representative in the Iowa House.

“Met up with Parachute Team buddy Mark Cline at his home near Cleveland, Ohio—Calvin sprinted the three miles from Reagan National to the Pentagon to get to the retirement on time after his flight was delayed. . .”

sounds like TMI and it is surely no fun but we’ve lost more classmates to cancer than we have to combat so it’s time to get ’er done. Mine is scheduled for Nov. 30th at Ft. Belvoir. Just do it!”

Phil Arvin checked in via FB: “Mini CS-03 reunion in Nashville. We met with Mike Kraft and Margaret (Duffy) Smith while in town for volleyball. Mike and his family left before the picture so Margaret’s son Gus filled in for him.”

-Lawrence Cooper, 2806 Erics Court, Crofton, MD 21114;Cooper@astroguy.com

1987

Greetings once again ’87—a lot of interesting inputs this quarter from a variety of folks that heretofore have not written, so enough from me; here is what is going on with our classmates!

Brig Gen (Ret) Dave Stilwell sent in “Update from Honolulu. I retired on 10 July and drove cross-country to drop the car in Seattle before settling in Honolulu. Got to see three great ’87 Americans en route.

“Classmates Keric Chin and Dave Stilwell didn’t meet until they showed up in Honolulu the summer of 1987 to attend grad school at the University of Hawaii through the East West Center program. 28 years later, we’ve coincidentally moved our families back to Honolulu and are reliving our youth—although I think Keric is in even better shape now than ever. Photo of a recent strategy session attached.

Keric Chin and Dave Stilwell We had a small ’87 reunion in Cedar Rapids, IA in July with Chris Williams, Ken Rizer and Dave Stilwell

Dave Stilwell, Ken Rizer, and others at the RAGBRAI. 126 · usafa.org

Dave Stilwell and Mark Cline Happy to embellish if you like. Cheers, Stilly.

Got an email from Rob Levinson (practically a neighbor here in Northern Virginia) “John and Carolyn, I have always meant to write something for Checkpoints and never seem to get around to it. So here goes. I live not far from you in Fairfax, VA. I retired as a Lt Col. In ’08 and worked a bit as a lobbyist, contractor and now I write on defense and national security for Bloomberg GovernMembers ment. Carmen and I have three 46% kids, two in college and one a senior in high school so we’re soon to be empty nesters. As for folks I keep in touch with, Greg Olson is near Seattle and is in finance; he and Vivian have two girls. Darin Helgeson and Kelly Sabre Society live near Dallas and Darin flies Donors for Southwest. Pat Bertlshoffer 21 lives near Houston and also flies for Southwest. Dean Wright lives in California and flies private jets for the Fry brothers who own a big electronics chain, and he also flies for the Patriots Aerial demonstration team. I occasionally bump into Preston Plous at the Pentagon who has a young child and works for Booz Allen. I also bump into Bill DeMaso at various events around town and he works for a defense contractor. On Facebook I engage a lot with Jamie Callahan who is a professor at Drexel University, Dave Charitat who I think is a lawyer and lives in Florida and Chris Simpson in Colorado. Jeff Quiggle is in Texas and we see each other when he is in town. That’s about it. Maybe sometime we should have a mini-reunion in the DC area. I’d be happy to host. Best, Rob Levinson” Rob also checked in via FB: “OK classmates here’s the challenge. Most of us turned 50 this year so it’s time for that wonderful tradition of getting your first colonoscopy if you haven’t done so already. I know it

Margaret Duffy, Gus, and Phil Arvin Following are some messages from the Association of Graduates: EXCELLENCE MATTERS! Thanks to your past support, cadets and graduates are offered unique opportunities year after year. Your gifts to the Air Force Academy Fund have provided critical “margin of excellence” funding for cadet and graduate programs and services.

The Air Force Academy is the nation’s premier institution for developing leaders of character, and we need your help in continuing this tradition. By giving back today, USAFA’s legacy of excellence is reinforced both now and in the future.

Your gift helps define the cadet experience and ensures the Academy’s vitality in the years to come. Every gift makes a difference and is tremendously appreciated. Give today!

Checkpoints wants to interact with the Long Blue Line! We are seeking content for the subjects below. We value graduate participation and with your contributions we can maintain the magazine’s status as an award-winning publication!

Check In with Checkpoints. Send us a hi-res (300 DPI) digital image of you and your Checkpoints magazine at a unique locale (say on top of Mount Kilimanjaro) or cool event (like at the World Series) and your photo could end up on the State of Mind page in the magazine. Email editor@aogusafa.org today!

The Long Blue Ladle: Send us your favorite recipe!

Submit your recipe today and it could be featured in the next edition of the Long Blue Ladle! Email your favorite recipe to editor@aogusafa.org today!

That’s it for this quarter ’87, fly safe!

–John & Carolyn Sammartino, 3107 Woods Cove Lane, Woodbridge, VA 22192; Home (703) 492-5492; Work: (703) 808-6234; jsammar@verizon.net

Greetings ’88ers! Most of the following is from our Facebook page… again, but Brig Gen Ron Paul, currently the Illinois AAG-Air (and most likely the first Hoibi High/ Northwestern Prep grad to make flag rank), wrote to me and said he is transitioning out of his current position, but didn’t mention what he was transitioning to.

James Allen Regenor sent me the following note: “Tom, my family and I have settled in Orchard Park, NY where I am the Director, Global Military Sustainment for Moog Inc. I look forward to seeing classmates as I travel.”

Carol Yannarella shared a photo of the DC USAFA girl’s night out which meets monthly.

1988

Scribe and Rob Fabian story: https://vimeo.com/132796360?ref=fb-share.

Also Christopher Lowe shared an AF Athletics story on our classmate Kreg Palko who is battling ALS. If you missed it, here’s the link: https://www.facebook.com/ AirForceAthletics/videos/613339682142143/?fref=nf.

Kreg and Elizabeth we’re praying for you!

Please send me inputs on what you’re up to, especially promotions, retirement, and where you are now stories so I can get the word out. You can contact me at USAFA88scribe@gmail.com, on Facebook, or on LinkedIn. Until next time…

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and a joy-filled and prosperous 2016!

you are interested in joining the team or want a gift idea to be considered, send me a note.

“I would be remiss if I didn’t also ask each of you to update your information at the Association of Graduates (members.usafa.org) as the source of record.

Along with this request, we still have many classmates who have never established a profile at the AOG. Your help in getting these lost souls to the AOG for registration would be greatly appreciated.

“That’s all for now. I look forward to hearing from you! Don (don.simpson89@gmail.com).”

Thanks Don! It was a privilege to be in Wendover, Utah at the 509th Composite Group reunion back in September hanging out with five World War II veterans and their friends and family. Thanks to these warriors who laid the foundation of excellence... it is an honor to uphold their legacy today as we carry on the torch of freedom for our great nation.

–Tom Sadlo, thomas.sadlo@gmail; USAFA88Scribe@ gmail.co; (240) 427-8453 Matt Miller, besides organizing home game tailgates (see next photo) has also designed an “88 BTD” flag. He states “I am having a 3’x3’ double-sided nylon, all-weather flag made. The more they make, the less the cost. I am waiting on the pricing, but the price will easily drop below $100 dollars per flag with a half dozen or more flags purchased. Please let me know if you are interested in purchasing one.” Way to go Matt!

Christopher Mookie Walker let us know that for those living in Virginia you now have the opportunity to order a USAFA vanity license plate (contact the Virginia DMV for details.)

Finally, my wife and I are doing a lot of traveling and “house sitting” while I search for work.

Members During one of our trips I ran 47% into Rob Fabian at the Hill AFB barbershop. He’s doing well and loving living in Utah. (See photo at the top of the next column.)

(The following are, in my opinion, essential to share with you. David Smith let us know Sabre Society Donors a new trail in Grand Junction, 22 CO was dedicated in memory of our classmate Tim Sewell; it’s called the TIMe Machine trail. Here’s a link to the

Greetings everyone, hope all is well! Quick update from our class president: “USAFA ’89 Classmates, WE ARE FORMING A COMMITTEE. It is not yet time to plan for our 30th reunion – well a few of us like to plan in advance… way in advance! But, we do have a rich and significant tradition before us to give back to the Academy for future generations of officers and graduates who will lead America – many of our own children and grandchildren.

“Over the past five years (even before our 25th reunion), many classmates have come forward with program ideas and requests. It was a decision of your class leadership to present an enduring tribute at our 20th reunion and to focus more on classmates and connections at the 25th.

“We learned from the 20th Members that a program such as the Kevin 50% Shea memorial takes a lot of coordination, communication and cooperation as well as time. This was a highly successful endeavor because of the leadership from our classmates that came forward to help and the time afforded to Sabre Society raise the funds and complete the Donors logistics.

17 “With this in mind, a small group of classmates is forming to explore gift ideas and the requirements to deliver them by our 30th reunion. We need your participation! If

1989

Vets at the 509th Composite Group Monument.

From left are me; Vern Rowley, radar operator – crew B-6, 393rd Bomb Squadron; William Miller, radio operator, 320th Troop Carrier Squadron; Russell Gackenbach, navigator – crew B-10, 393rd Bomb Squadron; Robert Gilman, 509th Bomb Wing post-war (Operation Crossroads); and Norris Jerrnigan, intel officer, 393rd Bomb Squadron.

That’s a wrap for this quarter. Keep those cards and letters coming. Take care and God bless!

–Paul W. Tibbets IV, 509 Earhart Circle, Whiteman AFB, MO 65303; (660) 233-8333; Email p2a2@ me.com or p2a2tibbets@gmail.com; Class Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/group. php?gid=43101356987

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 127

CLASS NEWS Greetings MGC! What a fabulous reunion! Nice to see the Falcons win their 10th home game in a row destroying the Bulldogs 42-14. It was rumored the Falcons new-found air attack was inspired by glistening yellowish-orange square sheets floating high above our raucous reunion crowd!

Huge shout out to Cheryl (Loyer) Beineke who, helped by husband Paul, set up the reunion. Charlie McIntyre MC’d the dinner and kept us on the edge of our seats. No, we weren’t getting up to leave Chuck! Lou De Felice commissioned a special batch of bourbon that was the toast of the party. It was also a time to renew our ties to the class.

Carine Nguyen (James Sanchez) was there to share in the memorial service for her husband and our fallen classmates. The memorial was thoughtfully organized

by Dawn (Molzen) Ehresman.

I had pad and pencil at the ready, but I arrived a little late to catch up with everybody. Here’s what I scribed…

Thomas J Lennon is now retired and working at Peterson AFB for NORTHCOM. Scott Ornsby is still at WrightPatterson AFB. Chris O’Neil is based out of Chicago with American Airlines. Carl Brenner is the AFMC/A2 at Wright-Patterson, Members and chasing after 4 kids, the 47% oldest who is running track in the Ohio high school circuit.

Steve LaCasse is the Director of Engineering at the Four Seasons in Hawaii. He is currently involved in a multi-million dollar renovation of the resort. If that Sabre Society sounds challenging, try explainDonors ing American football to his 11 bride, Laila, from Brazil!

Steve “Adolf” Brandt was there with son Steve, ’16. Steve is a political science major near the top of his class and was beginning the post-graduate scholarship interviews. Mike Saunders is still in and serving in the AFCENT headquarters in Shaw. Scrap’s son Devin is a 4 degree and gave us all the straight scoop on being a doolie at the zoo these days. Mike mentioned when he dropped Devin off for indoctrination he ran into another Tiger 10 classmate Dan Kaltenbaugh who was doing the same!

Gary Foster is out and working at Schreiver AFB and living in Monument, CO. He recently restored his cadet Mustang, so we had stories to trade. Mark Leonard is at Scitor in Aurora, CO serving the intelligence community.

Dan Daetz is working in the military ministry arm of the Navigators in Colorado Springs. He and Esme were busy organizing a conference in Orlando, FL. Gordon Klingenschmitt is serving in the Colorado House of Representatives in the 15th district seat located in SE Colorado Springs. Gordon is now running for the state Senate in the 12th Senate district.

BGen Carl Schaefer and Pauline made the trip out from Edwards where Schaef is the commander of the 412th Test Wing. BGen Mark Weatherington is on the

1990

128 · usafa.org

Joint Staff in DC. Stephanie and Mark celebrated their anniversary on the night of our class dinner—funny, we didn’t see them at all! Another funny story was that Mark and Chris Maynard painted a great mural for the squadron nearly 30 years ago and when touring the dorms Chris found it was still intact—the F-15s still wore 090 on their tail flashes proudly as they prowled the skies looking for Soviet MiGs—those were the days!

Brad Norris is at Scitor headquartered in Reston, VA where he is supporting acquisition strategies and contracting efforts. David Guio is the security director at the Holocaust museum on the Mall in DC. He has been there 4 years.

Brian Singstock is an anesthesiologist in Cincinnati, OH. Paul Sherman continues as a radiologist in San Antonio, but even free-lanced a few jobs in the local area and was able to turn the reunion into a business trip.

Steve Plescha is training the next generation of Viper pilots at the Nellis sims. Mike Pelletier is in the sixth year of a five-year GS tour at Ramstein AB, Germany following his retirement from F-15E Pilot & WSO tours. He was still bleary eyed at the reunion after catching a red eye to the reunion from Al Udeid, Qatar following a fighter deployment.

Ryan Cecil and I caught up the night before departing the Springs. Ryan recently moved back up to Delaware from Florida where he was previously commuting to Newark for his work flying the 757/67 family. He was glad to be closer to home base to cut down on the challenges of pulling reserve, while his kids in Florida still give him a reason to visit there in the future! Tim “Cage” Arnold is an American Airline pilot based out of Miami and living in the Florida Keys and moonlighting as an AYSO U14 coach. Tom Koss is a corporate pilot for Visa flying the Gulfstream G550 and Falcon 2000X. His son Taylor is the class of 2018.

Sam Svitenko kept us in good spirits and ensured the glass was never empty, and kept the spirit up through the game, but quite frankly I never got an update from him. I’m glad you made the reunion so much fun Sam! On the Saturday night following the game, Mike “Zulu” Contratto decided it was time to finish off the world beer tour at Old Chicago’s. Mike is a recently retired O-6 and is planning on remaining in the Destin, FL area to be near his two girls. We didn’t quite get through the requisite 110 beverages for the tour, but Mike did get to witness a photo of my Tiger 10 squadron mates!

Scribe Mike Shepherd with Herb Ehresman, Tim “Cage” Arnold, Brad Norris and Mike Saunders.

Shawn Pederson was not able to attend the reunion as he continues his heroic battle recovering from his brain aneurysm. If you are familiar with Shawn’s plight, it has extracted a tremendous toll on Shawn and his family. You can search “Norm” on our Facebook page where there is a link to pledge your support. Fight the good fight Norm!

See you at the 30-year Red Tags! Mighty 90 -- Flash –Mike Shepherd, 3801 Derby Circle, Quartz Hill, CA 93536; michael.j.shepherd@hotmail.com

1991

Are you enjoying the election season? Me neither. I want to know which one of you is going to be the write-in candidate we can all get behind.

More and more I’m thinking “where it’s at” in the field of American leadership is in the state governor’s offices and other regional/local communities. That’s where the rubber meets the road. I hope some of you are thinking about stepping into these fields of public office, as many of us have already done.

In this and other ways, I’m thinking about leadership more and more often these days. This summer I enjoyed a unique experience: I was the camp commander for a military-style basic training camp for 18-22-yearolds in an oasis in the Gobi desert (in China). My team and I taught these Chinese kids organization, discipline, how to salute, how to Members march, how to run in formation, 49% etc. Wild! Leadership training is something Chinese youth really need these days and I’m excited to be delivering it. If you would enjoy participating in a summer program with me in 2017 or beyond, please let me know Sabre Society so we can best prep for such a Donors possibility.

11 On with others’ news: Stacey Hawkins is now a pinned-on Brigadier General! Congrats, brother!

Jean (Fulmer) Voigt took her final flight in the C-21 on Sept 7 and retired soon after. She flew with her first instructor in the C-21. She described it as one last chance to challenge herself flight-wise, landing at Green Bay, visiting Lambeau Field for lunch and capping off the return flight along the Mississippi River admiring the city of St. Louis and the Gateway Arch.

“No better way to finish up my flying career!”

Colleen McCrary (and many others I suppose) enjoys the fruits of Art Romero’s entrepreneurial work (PB & Jellies), which reminds me that we’ll be enjoying the (fermented) fruits of Mark Moeller and Mark Beres’ Flying Leap vineyards. They sent a box of three bottles for a robust little crowd of Bold Golders to enjoy in celebrating the return of our class flag from Antarctica, courtesy of Tim Greminger and Hans Bley!

Very, very, very cool. Even the International Space Station didn’t take it here.

This story also brings onto the scope Thad Bibb because he is currently the Bold Holder of the class flag.

(I had ceremonially passed it into his care as a part of my retirement ceremony. He will do the same when he finally reaches that point himself. Eventually the flag will be held by our only remaining classmate on active duty, whoever that might end up becoming.) When Tim was trying to figure “how do we get the flag?” I thought we were in trouble because last I knew, Thad was stationed in the United Kingdom. Well, wouldn’t you know, he and his family had just returned from the UK and set up house at Scott AFB. His kids are now 16, 14, and 12 and they are all enjoying life. Thad is now the vice commander of the Air Operations Center at Scott. I’m quite impressed that Thad knew just where to grab the flag out of a box in the move!

Derek Linden continues to do well also. A collection of his communication antennas were (much earlier; not recent news) adopted for a moon mission spacecraft, the sum of which now lies scattered on the far side of the moon. The spacecraft was used for a planned crash into the surface; his handiwork is now part of the crater. Pretty interesting stuff!

graduate from the Dayton STEM School this past May, and both of us still have kids attending there. I’m on Reserve orders working for the Air Combat Command Chief Scientist, and once I got that job I reached out to the Reserve Advisor to COMACC, who at the time was Dave Schoebel. Making contact with him was short, as his reply to my email was on his last day before retirement. Just when I thought I was up the creek in having some advocacy in the HQ, his replacement turned out to be Jeff Davies. During a two-week visit to Virginia, I went to a concert over the weekend and posted a photo from that, which led to an inquiry by Kristen (Haser) Holliday, who had just moved to the area after six years living in Europe (two in Italy, four in Germany). We got together for lunch and had a good time catching up on all since graduation. Out of nowhere in August, I got a barrage of messages from Jerry Szybist, who was driving through the Dayton area taking his daughter to college in New York. We got together the evening of his arrival, and the next day he treated his daughter to seeing the (let’s be formal here) National Museum of the United States Air Force. As for me, I’m ‘Reservin’ it’ as much as I can, getting more into cycling, and trying to be faithful to what God has for me to do. If any of you are ever in Dayton, look me up – I always enjoy catching up and learning about classmates’ adventures post-USAFA.” Karen Stoff spent two weeks in June on a 6-person crew supporting a solo cyclist as he participated in Race Across America from Oceanside CA to Annapolis MD. They went 3,000 miles in 12 days! Karen expanded, “…he was continually battling fatigue and sleepiness... [we came] up with creative ways to keep him alert and awake. I remembered how we were deprived of sleep by the incessant recitation of ‘Boots’ during SERE and tried it on him. And it worked! To the point that he would request it. Who would have thought that creepy, annoying recording of a poem would actually be useful! He made it in 11 days, 23 hours and 33 minutes. And hearing that recording doesn’t bother me much anymore.” I love it, Karen!

And finally, I enjoyed reading on Facebook both Max (Torrens) Despain and Shannon Curry espousing “nobody will read my status but sometimes, when I’m bored, I get wrapped up in my tutu, put a giant horn on my head, lather sparkles all over myself and prance around the kitchen pretending I’m a magical unicorn!” Well, I guess it’s a good thing none of us were ever bored at the Zoo. –Carson Tavenner, 7912 Carlisle Place, Arlington, WA 98223; (301) 367-8969; Tavenner@hotmail.com

Heidi (Cizan) Scheppers, ’91, and Midshipman daughter Sheridynn, ’19. Pretty sweet.

Ryan Farmer sent in an extensive update after crossing paths with several classmates over the past few months. “After a ‘snow out’ in January, I was able to get together for lunch in June with Rob Strasser, who is heading up the B-2 Program Office. Through our conversation, we were surprised to find that our churches are within a mile of each other, and this has been the case for several years! Sometimes you never know... Todd May has taken over my work back in my civilian job. He’s doing well; we both watched our kids

Aloha! I hope this finds all of you happy and healthy as we approach the end of another year. We arrived here in Hawaii in August and the time has flown by. Hey, why didn’t the years go by as fast when we were at the Zoo… those four years seemed like at least eight, right? Anyway, it’s pretty cool to see all the True Blue ’92ers on the PACAF staff, as directors, and as commanders throughout the Pacific.

Starting with the INBOX. Andy Elbert’s email was a valiant attempt to cover his time since graduation through his recent promotion to Colonel in the USAFR. Actually, it was a great update that included several pictures—pictures are good. Andy checked in from Germany where he is a RyanAir pilot and in the Reserves. Andy had his promotion ceremony at ETNG (Geilenkirchen Air Base) which is the home of the NATO AWACS. According to Andy, “Tom Finneran was the MC, Joe Hall made me swear and blush, and Brad Frazier assisted with the pin-on alongside my wife, Martina, and father.” Brad, Joe, and Tom are all currently assigned in Germany or Belgium. Brad is the Air Operations Center director/U.S. Senior National Representative, CAOC Uedem (NATO), Uedem, Germany; Joe is the Director Nuclear and CBRN Defence Policy, IMS, NATO HQ, Brussels, Belgium (which I mentioned in a somewhat recent column); and Tom is the deputy chief, Combat Plans Division, NATO Combined Air Operations Center (CAOC) Uedem.

Members Andy continued, “It was a 47% great reunion, as Tom and I were Doolie roommates in CS-03, Joe and I knew each other well through Mike Rokaw since Smack year, and Brad was in CS-12 with me and the rest of the grand ol’ Dirty Dozen. It was a Sabre Society most memorable event and I am Donors thankful to Joe, Tom, and Brad 18 for making the trip.”

Andy joined the Reserves in 2005 after flying KC-135s and AWACS (NATO & USAF) on active duty and has served as a Primary Duty ALO since 2007. He highly recommends all grads serve as an ALO in any capacity—AD, AFR, ANG, retired, or separated. Last column, I mentioned Nicole (Foster) Greenwood who is in the same program. Andy asked me to mention that the Academy and Air Force needs our leadership and support to help mentor, counsel, and evaluate (for the ALOs) the future leaders of our nation. If you have the time and want to support this great program I encourage you to contact the Academy for more details.

Finally, Andy shared that John Wilson (who was at the Pentagon with me) retired on 18 Sep 15 at the Washington National’s Game... a most historic occasion on the USAF’s 68th birthday! Thanks for such a packed email, Andy. Just don’t wait another 23 years to send me the next one!

1992

Joe, Andy, Tom, and Brad. (Hey Brad, where’s your ring?)

Raucous Commanders. Just after I took command, I had to travel to Randolph AFB for the AFOSI Development Teams (DT). During my stay at the historic Randolph Inn, it seemed the evening quiet Checkpoints · December 2015 · 129

CLASS NEWS was always interrupted by a raucous group of colonels drinking on the outdoor porch with the rocking chairs.

One of my OSI colleagues told me, “hey, you know these guys.” And, I did. It was the group there for the fighter pilot DTs including Jim Meger, Rob Novotny, and Chuck Corcoran. Now, it was clear who was responsible for the ruckus. Needless to say, I joined them for a while. Jim is the commander of the 355th Fighter Wing, Davis-Monthan AFB; Rob commands the 48th Fighter Wing at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England; and Chuck is the commander, 3rd Wing, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. ’92 in the Pacific. Since I have detachments throughout the Pacific, I have the opportunity to travel throughout the theater. My first trip was to Korea and when I made my way south to Kunsan, I dropped in on the Wolf—Jeremy “Kid” Sloane. It was awesome to see Jeremy there as the Wolf! I had an official office call with him to discuss “business,” but we spent the whole hour reminiscing and catching up. Later, I joined him for a tour of the “Heritage Houses” on Friday evening.

There are a bunch of True Blue grads here on the PACAF staff. I see Brad Roller, James Shigekane, Mike Cardoza, and Tom Dobbs all the time—they are all on the PACAF staff. Art Primas is also on staff, but is currently deployed, so I’ve yet to catch up with him.

The PACAF Commanders and Directors Conference was in October and seven of us attended. Unfortunately, Tom Dobbs was off checking his email when we rounded everyone up for the photo. Tom is the PACAF A2. James Shigekane is the director of safety, Brad Roller is the exec for the PACAF DS, and Tim Sundvall is the 35th Fighter Wing commander at Misawa AB. As previously mentioned, Chuck Cocoran is Commander of the 3rd Wing, and Jeremy Sloane is the Wolf. And, I am the OSI commander for the Pacific.

Chuck, Tim, Brad, James, Jeremy, and James.

Last time I mentioned a photo opportunity from Maxwell AFB during the Wing Commanders’ course.

Suzy Streeter had sent me the photo, but I didn’t realize it since I was in the middle of my own PCS. Here’s the photo:

Come enjoy the Hawaii weather. If you get out to Hawaii, make sure to look me up, and if you’re somewhere out in the Pacific, drop me a note so I can look you up as I travel the AOR. Keep fighting the good fight, True Blue ’92! Aloha, James.

–James S. Mehta, 117 Julian Ave., Honolulu, HI 96818; jamesmehta@earthlink.net; james.mehta@ us.af.mil

1993

Greetings to you great Class of 1993! I hope this finds you doing great for the fall. It was a tough loss to Navy this fall. As I write this we are 3 and 3 with a chance to salvage our season and make a bowl game!

GO FALCONS! I finally took the plunge and retired my wings. On 1 Oct, our classmate, Colonel Bruce Ybarra retired me after 22.5 years in the USAF! For those of you who have already retired, you know the emotion involved, but I kept thinking of where it all started… with my class… Proud to Be. It was a great ceremony and several grads were in attendance and it was a huge honor to have my classmate retire me.

Lee Spechler, Jeff Kubik, Joe Sucich, Lance Orr and Kevin Kosefeski and families were all in attendance. I was very blessed to have more than 200 people at the ceremony. Picture to follow in the next Checkpoints because they are still getting cleared by the security folks… no cameras in the hangar…

For now, Lori, Collin and I will remain in Alexandria, VA. I am working for Jet Aviation flying a Global Express 6000 with a great crew. It will be nice to throttle back and enjoy life a bit.

Lance Orr updated me on a few things in his new retirement life. He, Manu, Liam and Elise are doing great in Northern Virginia. Lance was able to work his new career while working his old career. Nicely done, my friend. He was able to enjoy a few weeks in Germany for his new job. He ran into Aaron Booth who is finishing up his assignment there and he will be retiring soon. Lance also updates us on Mike Ballek who is retiring and will be flying the “Friendly Skies” with Delta. Jeff Nedrow retired last year and is also flying for Delta. Thanks for the update Lance!

Lance Orr and Aaron Booth in Germany.

Joe Rizzuto, James, Suzy Streeter, Rob Jackson (went stop-out and graduated ’93), and Mike Koscheski.

130 · usafa.org

For those of you who have been participating in our Class of 1993 National Character and Leadership Symposium… many thanks! Your support will go a

long way into the continued development of what we want to establish as the Long Blue Line.

For those who have not had a chance to contribute to this fund, please visit the web address: https:// www.usafa.org/give/93ncls. The intent of this fund is to support an annual National Character and Leadership Symposium (NCLS) panel to strategically connect cadets and USAFA to the exceptional airmen across the Air Force, like those chosen to receive the Air Force Association’s (AFA) Outstanding Airmen Award. The purpose of the fund Members shall be, beginning in 2018, to 88% provide funding needed to bring several Outstanding Airmen to the Academy to meet with the Cadet Wing and serve on a panel for discussion at NCLS. If several Outstanding Airmen are unable to attend to effectively represent Sabre Society a panel, funding may be used Donors

by NCLS to provide support for 18 other appropriate speakers to serve on the panel.

To date we have raised over $25,000 with only 1.2% of our class participating. So far CS-28 and CS-18 are in the lead with their donations. We have a LONG way to go, put our path forward. The key is to get the word out and committing. If you are reading this, visit the website, make a one-time donation, pledge for periodic donations, or more. The idea is to have an immense amount of cash on hand to perpetually provide this opportunity to every cadet class from now to eternity. Please forward the web address and spread the word. If you have any questions, please contact Wispy Speros, myself or our Association of Graduates Class Giving Officer, Razelle (Raz) Doherty at 719-4720300, extension 222. Several of you classmates have been working for over two years on this project and we need your help. A little or a lot will go a long way to

cementing our legacy and showing current cadets the leadership secrets of current Air Force Award winners.

Colonel Jeff Russell checks in from Afghanistan and ensures us not to worry. Many ’93ers are having a significant and positive impact on operations in that country. Colonel Bruce Munger is the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing, vice commander at Bagram.

Also, in the 455th… ’93 represents THREE Group Commanders: Beau “Riddler” Rodgers as the Expeditionary Operations Group commander, Colonel Morgan “Kawg” Curry is now the 451st Air Expeditionary Commander in Kandahar and Jeff as the 455th Expeditionary Maintenance Group commander. Jeff assures me they are making the mission happen, but having a little fun in the process. After all, all work and no play makes Jeff a dull boy! Thanks for the awesome update and be SAFE!

AB as Vice Commander of the 52d Fighter Wing a few months ago. Dale Hoover is a US Navy Reservist and was visiting while TDY to Hurlburt Field. Dale currently lives in the Dallas, TX area.

Kevin retired from the USAF on 1 Oct of this year and relocated to the Asheville, NC area where he will be teaching AF Junior ROTC at his wife’s (Heidi Clark) alma mater high school in Waynesville, NC. They are both very excited about his new job and returning to Heidi’s home in North Carolina.

Alex Grynkewich, Kevin Sutton, Steve Horton and Dale Hoover.

Great updates by all. Thanks again for all you are doing to contribute to our 25th Reunion Gift to the cadets of the United States Air Force Academy, the National Character and Leadership Symposium (NCLS).

a stout ’94 contingent in attendance. It started with Duke Pope inviting all interested on an Annapolis pub crawl the night before. I didn’t hear how that turned out, but I’m sure it was an epic bender. Social media revealed a bunch of Red Hots tailgating prior to the game, including Jack Aalborg, C.C. Masotti, John Gifft, Cynthia Green, Betsy (Moore) Russ, Jesse Hernandez, Chris Duhon, and Tom Rozylowicz. I also saw a picture of Chad Hamilton tailgating there with his family. Glad you all got to meet up for the game.

Next up, I heard from Richard Bejtlich who is now a strategist at FireEye, a computer security company.

He recently testified to the House Committee on Financial Services, Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. Richard said it was his ninth appearance before c ongressional committees and this time he discussed “threats and countermeasures following the OPM hack.” He didn’t mention if he advised on how to protect Hillary’s closet server, but impressive work. Richard is pictured here with his wife and daughters who were able to join him for the event. If you look close, he noted that he is indeed wearing his USAFA-issue tie clip.

–Michael D. Sunsted, 1805 Macadams Place, Alexandria, VA 22308; (703) 307-0903; mdsunsted@ gmail.com Morgan Curry’s Change of Command. Jeff Russell, Bruce Munger, Beau Rodgers and Morgan Curry.

Lance Pilch wrote from Elmendorf AB, Alaska as he was finishing up his tour as the Operations Group Commander. Lance had been flying F-22s (and once in a while jumping in a C-17, C-12, or E-3). He completed F-35 training and took command of the 33rd Fighter Wing at Eglin early this summer.

At Elmendorf, Lance worked with Steve “Haji” Hodge, who made O-6, went to Carlisle, and went on to group command. James “Finch” Sparrow showed up at Elmendorf this summer to be the Vice Wing commander and fly C-17s.

With Lance at Eglin is Kevin “Hobo” Sutton, who is retiring and will go back to his hometown to teach junior ROTC. Alex “Grynch” Grynkewich gave up command of the 53rd Wing at Eglin on 18 June. Lance and Grynch’s changes of command were back-to-back days in the same hangar at Eglin. Pretty Cool!

Lance has kept in touch with Craig Hollis, Manny Robinson, and Rico Pietrykowski pretty regularly.

Craig is going to be the Operations Group commander at Aviano AB, Italy flying F-16s. Rico is flying for Southwest, and Manny is working in Austin. Thanks for the superb update!

As Lance mentioned, Kevin Sutton retired from Eglin where he was working with the F-35 program in the 33d Fighter Wing. He said it was quite interesting and he was glad he got the opportunity to see the program up close and personal. He assures us that the F-35 will be a formidable asset when it is fully operational.

Kevin got together with several of our classmates at the home of Steve “Dallas” Horton and his wife, Heather. Steve is the commander of AFOTEC, Det 2 at Eglin. He came to Eglin from Spangdahlem AB in the summer of 2014, and was returned to Spangdahlem

1994

Merry Christmas ‘15! Greetings from sunny San Antonio. Colleen and I have settled here, postretirement, as I get spun-up with United Airlines. I’ve been enjoying terminal leave and United training up in Denver for the past couple months. Pretty soon, I’ll hit “the line” and try to land an Airbus for the first time with 150 passengers in the back. What could possibly go wrong?

Up in Denver, I’ve seen Vincent Lappano, who is also in training on the Airbus. And I ran into Andy Ratliff (another United pilot) at DIA, as he was commuting from Denver to Houston for a trip. He and his family finished up at Laughlin AFB and moved to Monument, CO. He said they have a great view of the Academy from their house, but that it was a bit of a shock the first morning when he Members woke up and saw the cadet area 80% out of his bedroom window. Oh, the memories.

Before I’m done in Denver, I’ll also get a chance to see my old Viking 9 bro, Miles Mathieu (‘95), who has a post-AF job at USAFA in the Athletic DepartSabre Society Donors ment. Miles and his wife Audrey 14 (Allcorn) Mathieu (‘95) invited me to go with them to the AFA vs. CSU game up in Ft Collins. Let’s hope for a better result than the Navy game.

Speaking of the Navy game, it looked like there was

A Red Hot goes to Congress... Richard Bejtlich and family.

I also heard from Eric Vold, who was at the Oshkosh air show in the mighty F-4 Phantom. Eric is stationed at Holloman, where he landed the coveted gig of being the F-4 demo pilot. He gets to fly around the country in an F-4 that is maintained in the original Vietnamera paint scheme. At the Oshkosh air show, Eric said he got to meet Robin Olds’ daughter who was in attendance. She even had her father’s original F-4 flight checklist, which Eric snapped a selfie with. Really cool. Congrats Eric!

Eric Vold and the mighty F-4 Phantom.

I got a couple other email updates this quarter, including one from Luis Linares who retired last year.

He said he then joined the State Department and that he and his wife and two young daughters began their first diplomatic tour in Brasilia, Brazil this fall. ConCheckpoints · December 2015 · 131

CLASS NEWS grats Luis. I meant to ask him if he found the Foreign Service Exam as tough as Austin Millbarge and Emmett Fitzhume did in Spies Like Us... “What does KGB stand for?” Luis must have done better on the exam than those two guys, as he avoided GL-G20 duty in Siberia. I also got an update from Xave Draper who said he recently finished a tour as the 439th Comm Sqdn commander at Westover, MA. Xave was on his way to be the Deputy Commander of the 916th Mission Support Group down in Shady J, NC. Nice work Xave.

John Ohm sent me an update from Perrysburg, OH (near Toledo). John is a first officer on the 757/767 with FedEx. Beyond that, he and his wife own a coffee shop called the Flying Joe. They also have a young son and two girls. The Ohms are pictured on a recent trip the Washington, D.C. Thanks for the info John.

The Ohm family in D.C. That’s all for this quarter. Thanks for all the updates...keep ’em coming! I hope you have a great Holiday Season and Merry New Year. Let me know what’s in your plans for 2016 -- Kegger.

–Craig Allen, (660) 864-5374; kegsdoolittle@yahoo. com

1995

With a heavy heart I wanted to let everyone know we just learned that we lost a classmate three years ago. Capt. William “Bill” Tolman, CS-21, passed away December 2012, and services were held in Utah at the time of his death. Bill is interred in the Utah Veterans Memorial Park in Bluffdale, Utah.

Here’s a Toast…

CS-23 alumni and others with a commemorative shot to celebrate the reunion. From left are Matt Kozma, Tony Mirabile, Andrea (Rolfe) Themely, Brian Joseph, Rhet Turnbull, Jon Veazey, Jon Cory and Paul Landess.

It was so great to see everyone at the reunion in September! Thank you so much to Tara Sweeney and 132 · usafa.org

her crew for setting up the weekend. I think we can all agree that the highlight was having Kjell Lindgren talk with us live from the International Space Station!

From Tara: “Derm and I would like to say, ‘Thank you,’ for making our reunion weekend perfect! Whether you were on our team of organizers, attended the event, or participated from afar, our collective spirit, PRIDE, and love for one another remains palpable. We hope this energy continues to envelop us and keep us connected to each other and our Academy. Please, keep using #KTP95 and #USAFA95 on social media to keep us posted about your adventures. You all are #WICKEDAWESOME.”

Reunion Banquet Fun Times. From left are Nikki (Gumina) Ballanger, Ruth (Rumfeldt) German, Nicole (Roberson) Prichard, Andrea (Kerkman) Miller, Audrey (Allcorn) Mathieu, and Antoinette (Valero) Rose.

The great news is that the 20-year reunion and the planning leading up to it has connected many of us via social media… but we are still missing several hundred. If you aren’t a member, please join the class Facebook and LinkedIn group with the same name: “USAFA Class of 95”.

As for class news, here goes!

My mind was a little blurry Members from the 1995 scotch that Rhet 76% Turnbull brought to the reunion banquet so my memories of what everyone is up to are at least 10% true, albeit I’m hoping for a better reporting record than that! Speaking of Rhet, he just came out on the Command Sabre Society Select Board as an eligible Senior Donors Materiel Leader—congrats! Our 11 Barnstormin’ 23 table at the banquet also included Jon and Karen Veazey, who are living in Las Vegas where he was hired by the 706 FS as a Reservist and is now the IG for USAF Warfare Center. Jon is also a full-time Southwest pilot. Prior to his Nellis gig, he spent a decade in Colorado Springs leading USAFA’s Make-A-Wish Foundation program, Cadet for a Day. Great to hear about ’95ers doing awesome work for the community!

Rounding out the CS-23 table were Paul and Stacie Landess, who are moving to Colorado Springs soon where Paul will be based as a Southwest pilot; Brian Joseph, who has somehow managed to stay actively flying F-15Cs and is stationed with his wife and two boys in Kadena, Japan; Jon Cory, who lives with his wife and two boys in Georgia; Tony and Jessica Mirabile, and Larry Baker, who is now stationed at STRATCOM and doesn’t look a day older than when

we graduated. And my CS-23 roommate for three years, Kim (Betts) Moncreiffe and her husband, Vic Moncreiffe (’94) were on my flight out to Colorado Springs from DC… they both look amazing as ever!

Kim just retired from the Air Staff and Vic is the MSG/ CC at Andrews AFB. They have 3 kids and Kim is enjoying her newfound freedom!

Matt and Bethany Kozma and their beautiful family in front of the class well.

Also up on the net but not in attendance at the reunion were Scott Shacklett, who left the AF in 2000 and now lives in Kansas City, Glenn Harris, Jerry Sanchez who suggested he would be at the reunion but if he was, no one saw him, Jason Bailey who works with me on the Joint Staff and just came out on the Command Screening Board for a Fighter Group command (congrats Jay!), Rob Goddard who unfortunately had to work over the reunion weekend, and Keel Ross, who left active duty in 2007 but continues to serve in the Reserves. Keel has been in Civil Service since he left the AF with the Department of the Interior for seven years. At the beginning of this year, he moved to AFRICOM in Stuttgart, Germany, where he serves as the Chief of the Cyber Security and Strategy Division, and wanted to make sure we were all jealous by letting us know he lives next to the Ritter Sport Chocolate factory! I’m totally visiting.

I also caught up with Jennifer Rollins, who is stationed at Ellsworth flying B-1s; Pam (Ruse) Backeberg, who just retired in Colorado Springs with her husband, Matt, and three kids, and Nikki (Gumina) and Rex Ballinger who just moved to Luke AFB. Nikki is the medical d irector for the Mental Health Flight, and Rex is teaching on-line economics classes for

Class of ’95 Spirit Mission! Photo taken by classmate Kjell Lindgren from the International Space Station!

American University’s graduate school. Also Ruth (Rumfelt) German is the Chief of Cadet Standards at the USAFA Cadet Clinic, and Ruth’s husband, George German (’93), is retired and currently supervising Gus and GiGi’s homeschool program. He is also working with Chad Hennings (’88) on Leadership and Character development.

I heard from Brian Oswalt back in June, and my apologies Oz for not including this info sooner!

Oz is currently living in Omaha, NE as a Reservist at USSTRATCOM. He also flies for FedEx, owns a healthy vending business, and he and his wife, Jen, had their fifth baby in July… congrats! Lastly, I also heard from Keith Crawford back in June who gave me a quick update… Keith gave up command of an intel squadron at Hurlburt Field in June and moved the family up to Maxwell for a year of Air War College.

Congrats and study hard dude… make us proud!

With that, have a fantastic holiday season, KTPers… all the best for 2016 and please keep the updates coming!

–Andrea Themely, andrea.themely@gmail.com

After graduating from The Eisenhower School in June 2015, she and Greg Letendre moved the family to Colorado and have found their “forever home”! Greg is a director for Eagle Hill Consulting and travels back and forth to DC. The kids are loving school and sports in Monument and the family is enjoying all-thingsColorado! John Christ is also a permanent professor and is the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department head.

I also heard from another Pink Panther, Justin “Coop” Cooper. He is retired in Enid, OK working Vance AFB as a T-6 sim instructor and will soon celebrate one year as a GS employee. [Get used to the sound of that TABs; we are now retired sim instructors.] Coop took advantage of the early retirement plan and did his fini flight and retirement ceremony on our 18th anniversary of graduation from USAFA. Several classmates are deployed together: Shawn “Rage” Anger is currently the Expeditionary Operations Group Deputy at Al Dhafra AB, UAE, and has the company of three other TABS. John “Stump” Orchard is the EOG, Steve “Munch” Fino is the 99 ERS/CC flying Global Hawks and also commands the U-2 bubbas, Jon “Shep” Plasterer is the AEW Director of Staff, and Scott “Klepto” Logan is the deployed Air Warfare Center Vice.

1996

A sad start to this update, we lost Lt Col Brent Himes on 24 September to cancer. Brent most recently served as the Air Attaché to Switzerland. Here’s a toast…

I’m fresh off the ’95 reunion and hope all of you can make it next year. It was great to see everyone and roam the cadet area freely for a few hours. Chuck and I even enjoyed a lunch at Mitch’s with our old squadron, CS-29 Black Panthers, and officially became “those old people” on the terrazzo during the “noon meal formation” (it is now like an afternoon stroll). Once the AOG publishes our reunion date, I’ll push it out through Checkpoints.

While at the reunion, I ran TABs married to ’95ers.

Maria Villapondo Holbrook may be the first person in our class to retire with a full 20 years on 1 October. She retired out of the F-15 Program office, WPAFB, as the Combat Sensors Branch Chief and plans to be “just a mom”-- which may be her Members hardest job yet! Her husband, 67% Mark Holbrook (1995), retires in December and they plan to stay in the Dayton area. Amazingly their oldest son, Caleb (USAFA ’20, if all goes as planned), is following Maria’s footsteps at the Prep School this year. Jennifer Sabre Society Donors Graving Maceda is a JAG, but currently working at the DoD IG 11 and according to Jenn “I’m now guaranteed not to have friends as a JAG who’s attached to an IG entity.” She and husband, Steve Maceda (1995), have been in DC since 2012 and daughter Kaylee is loving Kindergarten.

I ran into Linnell Letendre at A-Hall. She is now a permanent professor in the USAFA Law Department.

Rage has been deployed since April and has the same job back at Elmendorf where he shares an office with Kevin “Kato” Allred. Kato and his wife, Gayle, started their Alaska tour three years ago as the RED FLAG-Alaska detachment commander for 2 years and then moved over to be the “other” operations group deputy. He and Gayle have a new granddaughter that is learning to walk, so this will be a very exciting Christmas. Rage and Kato partner with Elizabeth Libby Beegan Boehm, Maintenance Group Deputy, daily to keep things flying in Alaska. From what I can tell the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Ops world has a solid team and is being run by a bunch of ’96ers. Across the base, Libby’s husband, John “Ponch” Boehm, is the Combat Ops Division Chief at the 611th AOC. Don Brunk and his family recently PCS’d to Monterey, CA, where he is working on the Defense Language Institute Staff – rough. The family enjoyed a great trip across the country and visited several national parks, Pikes Peak, and the Academy. (His kids were duly impressed!) Michael Martinez, his wife, Catalina, and three daughters recently PCS’d to the US Embassy in Santiago, Chile. When we corresponded he was just getting settled and had recently experienced an 8.3 earthquake (welcome to Chile). They are all excited to explore the Andes, Patagonia, the desert and the coast.

(See photo at the top of the next column.)

Finally, I did a search on everyone with Jennifer as a first name… I gotta keep it interesting to read and write… Jennifer (Kornacker) and Dale Reidel have

been at Edwards AFB for just over a year. Dale is the Staff Judge Advocate and Jenn has found a great veterinary practice in Stevenson Ranch. I can speak from experience if you need a good vet, Jenn is awesome— she took great care of our pets and I would recommend her to anyone. They are both enjoying Southern California with trail running on the Pacific Crest Trail, camping in the Sequoia National Forest, wine tasting and riding their Harleys. They both still work with Air Force Academy applicants and volunteer with Congressman Knight’s military admissions board.

Jennifer (Bivens) Stokes just finished up an extremely rewarding experience the past two years as commander of the Sacramento State Air Force ROTC detachment. She and her husband, Bryan, made the coast-to-coast drive to Newport, RI where she is now serving as an instructor at the Naval War College. They also visited a couple of ’96 Barons along the drive…

Jim Kajdasz, currently at USAFA; and Walt Jackim and Jack Floyd, who are at Offutt.

Scott and Jennifer (Trost) Vecchione are doing great at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam, Hawaii. Jen is in her second year of command (Medical Operations Squadron). She reports the highlight of her time in command is embracing the living history and the Hawaiian culture. All the while, Scott keeps busy surfing the waves with his 20+ surfboards and teaching their boys the finer points of snorkeling, shaved ice, and island exploration.

Jennifer Hammerstedt is in her second year of Group Command at Robins AFB. She is the Aircraft Maintenance Group commander where they do PDM maintenance on C-5s, C-17s, C-130s, and F-15s. She and her husband, Milt, who flies for Delta out of Atlanta, are enjoying the middle-Georgia area and Jenn loves her job! They stay busy with two Great Danes, traveling, playing golf, and working on a non-profit rebuilding houses for disaster victims.

Now that I am back in the States, it’s great to have Checkpoints · December 2015 · 133

CLASS NEWS the freedom to travel a bit. I spent a long weekend with Tom and Jenny (Spindle) Caballero in San Diego. Tom is now working for Kaiser Permanente in Pasadena and Jenny is program manager for Sony.

Her team develops the latest and greatest Play Stations! Jenny also brought her 12-year-old daughter to the Navy game and for a tour of the Naval Academy.

Despite a disappointing loss at Navy, it was great to see Nate Owendoff, Gail Butler Mader, Johnny Vargas, PK Carlton and so many other folks in the rain at Annapolis.

Until next time… keep the updates coming; it’s great to hear what our classmates are doing around the world!

mander there. When she walked across the street to meet her neighbor, she discovered it was Brad Dyer, who is a T-6 instructor. Bigger news is that Scott and Wendy recently welcomed their son Daniel who was born in August. Here is a photo of the happy family before the AF-Navy game.

–Andi Vinyard, andivinyard@yahoo.com; andi. vinyard@us.af.mil

1997

Greetings ‘97!

As always, hope this update finds you well. I find myself putting this update together from my bottom bunk in communal housing at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait – on day 7 of a 6-month deployment. On the rotator over to Kuwait, I ran into Jay Martin who deployed from Robins AFB, GA to Ali Al Salem where he will be the deployed Deputy Maintenance Group Commander. It was great running into Jay and catching up on experiences since USAFA. Over the last few months, I have run into a few classmates and heard a couple updates that I’ll pass on.

This past fall, I took a trip up to New York and got to play golf at the new Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point course with Jamie Maunz, who lives in Brooklyn with his wife, Louise. Jamie recently started flying domestic routes for Delta Airlines in addition to the flying he does with the New York Air National Guard.

Mel and Jamie at Trump Ferry Point in New York After some good years teaching in the Civil Engineering Department at USAFA, Pat Suermann accepted short notice orders to help stand up the new AF Installation and Mission Support Center in San Antonio, TX. Pat and family will look to build a house in New Braunfels as a possible long-term base for the Suermann household someday.

Another recent addition to San Antonio, Wendy (Palatinus) Woodward and her husband, Scott, recently relocated. Wendy is a full-time Reservist at Randolph and will start flying the T-1 in January.

Wendy mentioned Joel DeBoer is a squadron com134 · usafa.org

Wendy and family Chris Davis passed on a story. He and family were on vacation at the Disney resort in Oahu, Hawaii late last summer. After some shopping, Chris and family walked into an ice cream shop where Chris’s 3-year-old daughter sat down on a bench next to classmate, Alex Pupich.

Last I heard, Alex is still based in Los Angeles flying for Southwest Members Airlines.

73% Speaking of Southwest, if you flew with them during the month of October, you hopefully saw the photo and feature of Keith Ensor on page 24 of Southwest: The Magazine. If you missed it, check it out online. It’s a great article on Sabre Society how Keith embodies the spirit of Donors Southwest and mentions Keith’s 15 son and budding musical star, Elijah, and his single “Love.”

Some other quick notes on the way out… David Joyce and his wife had their second daughter, Lucia Marie, this past October… Phil Warlick is at Air War College as a full time Reservist… and congrats to Sarah Williams who recently got engaged (on a Delta flight somewhere between Minneapolis and Duluth)! Until next time… Mel

1998

This time of the quarter again when Class Notes are due, and once again, I’m late turning in our class’s Checkpoints update. That’s my passive aggressive way to let you guys know that I’m OK handing off the baton if anyone wants to take it.

In any case, I owe the Class Notes editor at least a case of beer for the amount times I’ve missed the

deadline.

This is one of the quarters that I was flooded with updates – so thanks everyone. The first update came from Kerrie (Gribuski) Dunker. I lived with Kerrie and Matt Dunker back when we were all stationed in Grand Forks; it’s a long story how I ended up in their spare bedroom… but it starts with me having no options and ends with them feeling Members sorry for me. Not too dissimilar 69% to how I got engaged. Anyway Kerrie and Matt have always let me know how painful it was to live with me – until recently.

This past summer they came back from London to Colorado and spent time with Jeff Mohr.

Sabre Society Needless to say, visiting with J Donors Mo made them appreciate what 11 a great roommate I was. Matt is training for an Ironman – and has had a few bumps along the road in training; he fell from his bike and crushed his scapula and broke five ribs. The ole’ swimmer is finding out the hard way that the blacktop is not as forgiving as the water. While visiting Jeff and Felicia (Bell) Mohr, the Dunkers were also able to meet up with Cami Gage – another C Springs resident. Kerrie gave me this great picture of the five of them along with the Dunker and Mohr kids. I couldn’t help but notice that J Mo is wearing AFA football team-issued shorts and shirts – I have a picture of J Mo from 17 years ago in pilot training and he’s wearing the exact same thing.

–Melvin E. Maxwell, Jr., 4660 4th St. South, Arlington, VA 22204; mel_maxwell97@hotmail.com; melvin.e.maxwell2.mil@mail.mil Felecia (Bell) Mohr, Cami Gage, Kerrie (Gribuski) Dunker, Matt Dunker, and Jeff Mohr.

Ian Laughrey checked in from O’Fallon, IL and Scott AFB. He and family moved there last summer from the DC area. Upon arrival, Ian took over the 54 AS Operations Officer reins from Ben Menges… in baseball speak he relieved Menges after eight strong innings to come in and close out the ninth. It was a quick stay at DO for Ian; he took over as the 54 AS

commander a year later. The new 54 AS Ops Officer is Lisa (Waldrep) Rauk… funny how that all works.

Both Ian and Lisa have to deal with Aaron Tallman and Eric Berg, who are both Reservists at Scott and fly for Southwest – Tallman has been high maintenance since his KC-10 days. Menges meanwhile has moved on to be the DV airlift squadron commander in Hawaii. Ian is hoping he once again follows Menges… this time out to paradise. Here is a picture of Ian and Melissa (Feyereisen) Laughrey (’97) and their three good looking boys at Ian’s change of command. It looks like Melissa has found the fountain of youth, and Ian looks like… a 40 year old, but he’s a wool puller and that’s got to count for something.

Melissa (Feyereisen), Ian, Liam, Braden, and Colin Laughrey.

Jeremy Jones checked in from Houston. He and Travis Lauritsen work at Goldman Sachs together; they actually have offices about 10 yards down the hall from one another. If any of you happen to obtain a net worth in excess of $10 million – JJ and Trav will be the first to call and congratulate you, while coyly letting you know how well Goldman Sachs could help you increase your abundant wealth. Jeremy and his beautiful wife, Rachael, have two boys, 5 and 2. Next time send a picture with your update Jones. And if you and Trav can get a waiver for something just a little bit below $10 million – you guys know my number. On the other hand if you can get a waiver for something far below $10 million – I can get you Marc Segal and Brian Quinn’s numbers.

Last update came from Ryan Bohner who recently took command of the 33 Special Operations Squadron at Cannon AFB, NM. He’s very proud of his not one, but two dates to the Air Force Ball.

Emily, Adalyn, and Ryan Bohner Random Rob Evert and Marc Thurbush – I know you guys sent me a picture but I could only fit in three photos and J Mo told me if I had to leave one out, “leave the o-lineman out”. Next quarter fellas.

–Patrick Fox, One Crestwood Lane, Hanover, NH 03755; Cell: (415) 599-9089; Office: (603) 634-8885; pfox@newenergycapital.com First of all, my sincere apologies for the no-show last issue. No excuse, sir and ma’am. Let the updates begin…First off, a quick update on me as I get quite a few emails to my Pentagon account. I left DC last summer and crossed the pond to Germany, where I am currently serving as the Medical Support Squadron commander at Ramstein. It’s a challenging gig, mainly in trying to balance showing up for work with an aggressive international travel schedule: 24 countries in 24 months!

(Currently at 22, 14 months in…) I’ll leave here next summer unless I can convince someone on USAFE staff to take pity on me.

Speaking of USAFE staff, we have quite a few classmates wandering those halls lately. Jeff “DB” DeBerry moved over there this summer after completing his gig as the Deployment Transition Center Squadron Commander. He’s now working on the A1 staff. Also spotted on USAFE staff are Austin Burrill, Anthony Langford, Chris Malpass, Kevin Ormsby, Ryan Sawyer, Jeff Shuck, Matt Stewart, and Marc Summers. Matt Dooley, Craig Lindstrom, and Erin Montague have been doing great things over Members in the Ops Group, flying impor72% tant people all over a couple continents. We occasionally run into each other at Wing meetings. By contrast, we did not all meet up to watch the Navy game, which was apparently a good idea. Ouch.

Also in Europe now is Heather Sabre Society (Healy) Uberuaga, who moved Donors over here this summer with 13 her husband, Mark, and their three adorable children. Mark is stationed at Lakenheath, and Heather continues to work for Raytheon. And Trisha Eknes continues to commute back and forth between London and DC for Lockheed Martin.

Now that I’ve reminded you all who to reconnect with on Linkedn for summer travel planning, let’s head back stateside, or CONUS as the cool kids say.

Received an update from Mike Ramirez (’94) about

1999

three of our own. T.J. Kreutzer recently pinned on Lt Col, and Dan Dorson and Bill Fields were there for the celebration. All three are currently serving as Admissions Liaison Officers in the Minneapolis area.

Michelle Nunez also dropped me a quick line to let me know the Reserve O-5 list is now out, so we should be seeing more of these photos soon. Congrats to all our reservists out there who made Lt Col! That’s it for this round. Matt Watson and I are cooking up a throwback twist for the next installment; that is, if he doesn’t bail on me again. (Peer pressure, people… it still works.) Understandably, he has a lot going on—he and Dana Moss are expecting their second little boy this coming February. Congrats to the Motsons!

-Mary Stewart, Arlington, VA; marybeth 1999@ hotmail.com; mary.stewart@pentagon.af.mil

2000

Dave Adamson started work at Lockheed Martin in October; Susie (Murphy) Adamson and the kiddos will be moving out to California to join Dave later this year or early next year. Regardless, I’ve seen the houses that they are considering… after AF, maybe the grass is greener on the other side!

Luke Urish and Mike Murphy represented the Class of 2000 in a stellar way, by flying Air Force Two for the Vice President together back in August.

Luke Urish and Mike Murphy flying Air Force Two. Luke is transitioning to civilian life and just started flying for Southwest Airlines.

Since his life is changing so much, Luke also got engaged.

He is planning to stay in the DC area for the time being, so at least Members one aspect of his life is locked for now. Congrats to Luke on the 66% retirement.

Reggie Jennings was in Colorado Springs for an exercise event that I was also attending, so I got to have lunch with him and hang out a little. He was in Sabre Society civvies, telling me that he too is Donors enjoying contractor life, working 15 for a company called USfalcon as the DMOC-S liaison to 14AF; Checkpoints · December 2015 · 135

CLASS NEWS he said basically he’s the exercise coordinator for the 14AF units. When he’s wearing a uniform, he’s a Major in the AF Reserves with the 9th Space Operations Squadron. Reggie is now married to wife, Emily, and together they have a son, Roman.

Jamie Rand notes that she got back from a short stint to Qatar in June and is expecting to head to Afghanistan next year for deployment number 4, since rejoining active duty in 2009. She and her husband are still enjoying life in St Louis, where she is part of the CSTARs (Center for the Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills) program at St Louis University Hospital. Here is a photo from her last Qatar deployment.

life. Amanda Somerville separated in February and is now working at the Albuquerque Public Libraries.

Sally Maddocks and her husband, Nate Patton, had their second son, Teddy, a couple weeks ago. Their other son Clyde is almost 2!

Audra (Luyet) Lyons sent an update and picture from her assumption of command at Fort Meade, MD’s 707th Force Support Squadron. They also got together in Atlanta and celebrated Aubrey Semrau’s retirement with Jason and Bernie Smith.

From left are Bobby Schmidt, Mike Uedak, Frank Lyons, Anra Lyons, and Gweedo Owen, ’03.

Ryan Earnest ’01, Jamie Rand ’00, Joseph Gower ’96, and David Steinhiser ’94.

Hans Anker is getting his frequent flier miles as a Lt Col CE Officer. He lives in upstate New York, but commutes to drill with the Colorado Air National Guard, 240th Civil Engineer Flight at Buckley. He made it back home from UFG in Korea in time to go apple picking with his wife, Deana, Hans II, and Lillian, pictured below.

Mike Reilly sent along this picture from Drill Weekend in June. He, Jeff Schneider, Tom Kanewske and Chris Wilson are all traditional Guardsmen in the 121st Fighter Squadron, DC Air National Guard, flying the F-16. On Sunday, 14 June, they flew the only all-2001 4-ship in any airframe that they can recall and decided the momentous occasion needed to be etched into history with a Checkpoints submission.

Thanks guys!

heading to the Pentagon, A4C; Frank Lyons: headed to J8 in the Pentagon; Audra Lyons: going to be the FSS/ CC at Ft. Meade in Maryland; Rich Ganske: moving on to Louisiana State University to pursue a PhD in political science to eventually come back to instruct at the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies.

From left are Randy Carlson, Marty Hemmingsen, Rich Ganske, Jason Zumwalt, Audra Lyons, and Frank Lyons.

Mike and I had a great summer... I headed out to California in June for my first ever “girlfriend’s weekend” and it was a blast – I might need to do that more often! We took the kids to DC in July to see the Barcelona soccer team play and stayed several days to take in the sights. While there we got to catch up with Brent and Amy Greer and their daughters Stella and Gigi over dinner and ice cream and also Jeff Feuring and 2 of his 4 kids over lunch.

I hope this finds everyone well. Keep in touch!

Thanks! Faith –Faith (Hitchcock) Dunn, 6423 NW 94th Court, Johnston, IA 50131; Faithd03@hotmail.com

Class of 2002! Trick or Treat!

Halloween was just this past weekend and we are headed deeper into fall. I hope you have some great Thanksgiving plans coming up and everyone has a happy Veterans Day. Once the holidays are over, send me a quick email or Facebook message with a family pic so that I can throw it into the New Year’s Checkpoints update.

2002

From left are Jeff “Mach” Schneider, Tom “Kanoe” Kanewski, Mike “Mugs” Reilly, and Chris “Law” Wilson.

As soon as you read this, please drop me a line via email with your update: Jason.Simmons@outlook. com. Thanks.

–Jason Simmons, 5756 Range Rider Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80923; Jason.Simmons@Outlook.com Hi all! Here are the updates I have received for the article this quarter. Thanks to those that sent updates! Keep them coming!

JD Foy just moved to NS Rota, Spain for a two-year assignment as the Group DO for the 521 AMOG. If anyone comes through, his beach house in Rota has three extra bedrooms for anyone who wants to stay. Jenn DiCarlo was medically retired effective 29 Dec 15 and is moving to Golden, CO to start her new

2001

136 · usafa.org

Randy Carlson also sent an update and pic from a group of grads currently at Maxwell AFB. Others at Maxwell right now but not in the pic are Matt Ziemann, Sally Maddocks, Wayne Kinsel, Darryl Laye, Brian Benton, Matt Members Mountcastle, Hector Collazo, 69% Damion Holtzclaw, James Ord, Paul Morris, and Craig Morash.

Randy got an update from some of the folks and here is what he heard. Randy Carlson is headed to USAFA to teach physics; Sally Maddocks: headed to USAFA to Sabre Society Donors teach physics and flying at the 11 Airfield; Jason Zumwalt: going to RAF Lakenheath; Hector Collazo: Hurlburt Field with the family; Wayne Kinsel:

Stewart Parker with parents and sister during the 21 STS Change of Command.

Mission Updates: Stewart Parker is one of our fast burning classmates that made LtCol BTZ. He just finished ACSC with a bunch of USAFA classmates, and

now he’s stationed at Ft. Bragg as the commander of the 21 STS. The first three months of command have been great, with the exception of losing two teammates in Afghanistan recently. Capt Matt Roland, 23 STS (’10) and SSgt Forrest Sibley, 21 STS, were good friends and incredible operators. Stewart Members gives a huge shout out to all his 67% 2002 friends that reached out to him during this difficult time.

Justin Pendry just moved to Colorado Springs this past Summer and is attending UCCS getting another master’s degree.

Next year he’ll be leading cadets Sabre Society as an AOC at USAFA. He and Donors his wife, Lindsay, have four kids, 7 Hudson (3) and Kennedy (19 months) and they welcomed twin boys, Bennett and Cannon, born August 2nd and growing strong.

engineer drilling oil wells in the Gulf of Mexico. Anta Plowden was flying C-130s while on active duty and after separating he moved back home to Miami where he is in his second year of Miami Law School. Anta has immersed himself into dancing. Learning the Chacha, rumba and hardest of all, the Viennese waltz at 180 beats per minute. He’s happy to be back in Miami spending time with all his nieces and nephews and the rest of his extended family. Miami Law Magazine just did a student spotlight on him.

Continue to update me with your latest job moves and family updates anytime something cool happens!

Keep taking photos and posting them to Facebook or email me anytime so I can keep your classmates updated on what’s new! T ony Straw created a class page on LinkedIn so come join the party!

–Susan Lynn (Doyle) Maly, Linked In: USAFA03; USAFA2003@gmail.com; Class Facebook Page: Usafa Zerothree

2004

–Eric Ballew, World Cell: +.850.543.9936; ericballew86@yahoo.com; eric.ballew@us.af.mil; Class Facebook: USAFA Class of 2002; Class Website: www.usafa02.org

2003

Hey Bongers, I hope this issue of Checkpoints finds you doing well.

We received several updates from classmates. Carmine Muscarella shared about a little USAFA reunion when he visited Rob Whiteside in Austin, TX. Rob’s out of the Air Force, and he’s moved from F-16s to his new business, “Austin Biplane.”

Rob took Julie Baker and Carmine up for a ride!

Members

73%

Editor’s note: We did not receive an input from Breezy for this issue. Please send her your information and photos for the next magazine.

Sabre Society Donors

4

–Breezy Long, 120 Subfest Drive, Deatsvillle, AL 36022; windyshort@gmail.com Classmates, I hope this update finds everyone safe and doing well. I heard from many of you that the reunion went extremely well. A huge thank you goes out to Jessica Switzer, Kenny Smith, and Katherine Ivey for stepping up and putting together a great event. Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on how you view it, my wife, Anna, and I were unable to make it because we recently welcomed our first child, Margaret Frances Tamasitis, into the world just a few weeks prior to the reunion. We promise to see everyone at our twentieth.

Speaking of new additions, Chris Perr and Jackie (Plumb) Perr also welcomed their daughter, Robin, into the world recently. They currently live in Livermore, CA.

2005

Andy Beck, John Chapman, Jeremy Simmons and Jared Paslay at the Ozarks in Branson, Missouri.

Black Panther Mini Reunion: Andy Beck got together with some of his CS-29 buddies, John Chapman, Jeremy Simmons and Jared Paslay. The group brought their families and rented a house at the Ozarks in Branson, MO during Columbus Day weekend. They said it was a great time to catch up with everyone!

Deadheads Andrew Rule, Nora (Cho) Rule, Dave Allen (’01), Karen and Jeremy Laster (’00).

Casey Jones you better watch your speed: Andrew Rule, Nora (Cho) Rule, Dave Allen (’01), Karen and Jeremy Laster (’00) in a pic from the 4th of July, Grateful Dead 50th Anniversary, Fare Thee Well show at Soldier Field in Chicago.

Class Sightings: John Boyd lives in New Orleans with his wife, Brandi. He’s working for Shell as an

tableau-zen-masters-44434. You can also follow Robert on his blog: https://www.interworks.com/ blog/rrouse/2015/10/01/how-i-went-air-force-officertableau-zen-master In exciting news, our classmate Elissa Ballas won the Air Force Marathon on her last day in the Air Force with a time of 2:57:21. Congratulations and way to go!

I hope you and yours have a blessed and safe holiday season. Take care, Susan

A CS-13 mini-reunion this summer. Julie Baker (Class of 2004), Rob Whiteside and Carmine Muscarella at Austin Biplane.

Congratulations to Robert Rouse, who was announced a Tableau Zen Master.

Tableau describes a Zen Master as, “a select few (who) have risen above all the rest in their mastery of the product, their willingness to share knowledge and most Members crucially their desire to help us 71% improve the Tableau solutions of tomorrow. They are, at the same time, our biggest advocates as well as our harshest critics. We are lucky to have them.” Robert, congrats on the high profesSabre Society sional honor and your recogniDonors tion in front of 10,000 people in 7 Las Vegas this October! Check out Zen Masters here: http:// www.tableau.com/about/blog/2015/9/20152016-

Chris, Jackie, and Robin Checkpoints · December 2015 · 137

CLASS NEWS I got a great update from Melissa (Bland) Dombrock and Ryan Dombrock. Melissa and Ryan are living in Morocco where she is studying Arabic and Ryan is enjoying the civilian life after having separated from the USAF last fall. The two organized a reunion on the other side of the pond where several grads and families gathered in the UK to attend the Rugby World Cup. The group of 20 cheered on Members Team USA, despite the loss. At75% tending were Rem Barnes (2008), John Lockard and his wife, Lindsey (Temes) Lockard (2007); RJ Rademacher and his wife, Emily; the recently married Brandon Conyers and his wife, Heather; Sabre Society Chris Min, Joe Reidesel and his Donors wife, Ava; Brian Jarratt and his 6 bride, Celia (Palm) Jarratt; John Feely and his better half, Amy, along with their brand new baby girl Maggie; Mike Hobson and his wife, Andrew, and – last but not least – Brian Lemay and his wife, Kate.

The 2001 Edition of Squadron 31. long-time head coach Eddie Weichers. Blake was hired away from USA Boxing, where he served as high performance associate and the national team manager since September. While at USA Boxing, he was responsible for strategic athlete development and preparation for the 2015 World Championships and the 2016 Olympic Games.

Blake was the assistant boxing coach and a physical education instructor at the Zoo from 2008-12. During that stint, Blake helped lead our Falcons to a national title in 2012 while mentoring and coaching boxers, including 11 individual national champions and 40 All-Americans. He also served as the deputy chief of intramurals and an executive officer and was named the Outstanding Academy Educator for the athletic department in 2010. Congrats Blake, well deserved.

–John Tamasitis, 825 Kinlock Court, Columbia, SC 29223; jgtamasitis@gmail.com; Cell: (803) 360-2970

USAFA represented at Rugby World Cup. Squadron 31 had a great showing at the reunion.

Rob Stanfield, Brian Sawyers, Keil Martin, Phil Jackson, Cam Czarnieski, Crystal Kirkley, and Dr. Justin Bandino all made the trip back to the Springs for the event. (See photo at the top of the next column.)

Finally, it gives me great pride to congratulate one of our own (and one of my best friends and groomsmen at my wedding) Blake Baldi who was recently named the head boxing coach at USAFA to replace

The Class of ’05 is conducting a

10 Year Reunion Class Participation Campaign in order to help support the future leaders of our nation. Join us in contributing to the Air Force Academy Fund or any of our over 300 funds that mean the most to you. By giving today, you will help us reach a record 47% participation rate in honor of being the 47th graduating class! Please pledge your support by visiting our website at usafa.org/2005

138 · usafa.org

AFB, and I’m teaching at the comptroller school.” All I can say is… all help to the new financial managers out there. Totally kidding Chua… I know you will teach them well!

Speaking of scholars, I also got an update from our beloved classmate the German Russian American David “Smalz” Smalenberger. He wrote, “I Members graduated AFIT with a PhD in 75% Operations Research. Trista is back from her deployment at an undisclosed location and we will be reunited and working at the Pentagon after being apart for nearly 3 years.” Well Smalz, Sabre Society I guess none of us will attempt Donors to dominate the world, or your 9 intelligence… you got us beat.

Glad that Trista is back in your arms (albeit skinny ones!).

Growing families are always a nice addition to this section, and I am pleased to let the readers know that Amy Justus (Gilliland) and husband welcomed in their precious little boy recently. She wrote, “Jayden Lyon Justus was born on 4 Oct 15. He waited until Close Out was over! Everyone is doing well” From one FMer to another Amy, I bet that was a very stressful time. Be sure to tell little man thanks for letting the Air Force books close on FY15!

2006

Class of 2006, I have watched the time fly by here in wonderful Colorado. I am so happy to see some of you around here again and also to learn of those that are off doing great things in the AF still, while many of you have ventured off in other directions. The submissions this time around were short and I am certain it is due to the busy lives you all lead.

Big shout out to Jamie Hart for tying the knot recently… great stuff! We all know that she “completes you.” I bet the Cadet Chapel looked just like last time you saw it. Some things never change. Will also throw a shout out to Wes Morgan, Mark Dasher, Brandon Sandoval, James Schannep, and Brian Geutschow… just for keeping things alive on FaceBook!

I also got to hear from my fellow FMer and scholar Mike Chua. He wrote, “Our family moved to Maxwell

Next year is the big 10-year reunion for all of us.

Please keep an eye out and check back from time to time on Class President and the 2006 Facebook page. I know the team is trying to plan for a solid reunion. Your input will go a long way to help things move along.

Reunions of late have been less than stellar, according to the feedback sessions. Let’s rock this one. We also have the Army-Air Force game here this weekend with CORONA, so times are busy. I hope to see many of you here tailgating and doing the rival game right.

The Class of ’06 is conducting a 10 Year Reunion Class Participation Campaign in order to help support the future leaders of our nation. Join us in contributing to the Air Force Academy Fund or any of our over 300 funds that mean the most to you. Since the start of our campaign, we have more than tripled the amount of classmates who are giving back!

Please pledge your support by visiting our website at usafa.org/endowment/classgiving2006

Thanks to those who provided updates this time around, and spread the word to others that I will gladly accept more. As for me (ShawnSchuuuuulz), I am still the Budget Officer at USAFA (for a few more weeks) and would love to meet up if any of you are in town. I am finally rotating out this winter, in December, and I am headed back to Scott AFB to work on AMC staff.

With that said, I will continue to support each of you any way I can! Keep those updates alive and flowing!

–Shawn “The Schulz” Schulz, 7840 Swiftrun Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80920; (915) 309-5612; USAFACAD@hotmail.com; Facebook page: USAFA Class of 2006

2007

2008 Members

65%

Hey Richter Class!

I have a couple of new updates to pass along. Alyssa Keeter, now Alyssa Tetrault was Sabre Society married back in 2009. Her husDonors band, Jeff Tetrault, is a member 5 of the class of 2006. They had a baby boy, Finley James Tetrault, back in November of 2014. All three of them are doing great and are happy and healthy.

Members

78%

Hi Class of 2007, I recently saw a number of Facebook posts from the Class of Sabre Society 2005’s 10-year reunion. Everyone Donors I’ve spoken to who went had a 5 blast. They said it was amazing to reconnect with classmates and spend time back at the Academy. These 10 years are flying by so start planning ahead for a Fall 2017 reunion in Colorado Springs!

Thank you to Stephen Lawson for writing in to let us know that he recently married Katy Maestas on August 29, 2015. Our classmates Vic Thompson, Trevor Cook, Lance Watson, Brad Meissen and Eric Goldman attended the wedding. Denny Poland (2006) was also there. Stephen and Katy are now living in Cincinnati, OH where Stephen works at Procter & Gamble in Brand Management on Vicks products, specifically ZzzQuil. Katy also works in Brand Management for Vertx, an outdoor apparel line.

The Lawson Wedding I reached out to a number of folks for updates and if you didn’t have time this edition to send in your update we’d love to hear from you for next edition.

–Casey (Bayne) Whitson, (310) 343-5969; email:@aseywhitson.com

Newcomers are affectionately called “Nooglers” and given this sweet hat that Ashley Snyder is showing off.

–Christin Brodie, (817) 223-9793; Christin.Brodie@ usafa.edu; cbrodie2@icloud.com

2009 Members

60%

Jeff and Alyssa (Keeter) Tetrault now have a son named Finley.

I also heard from a couple of people whose careers are now going off in a whole new direction. Ashley Snyder and Alex Pedersen have both separated and are now proud to be working at Google in Mountain View, CA. They suffered through a long and tough interview process, but are very excited to be working in the civilian sector with such a fun and well-known company.

Thanks for all of the input!

Let us know if you are going to SOS, PCSing, transitioning out of the Air Force, or anything else exciting! We want to know Sabre Society Donors how you’re doing and where you’re going! Like and post it 2 to our Class of 2009, Air Force Academy Facebook Page! Here’s the latest…

BABIES: Nick Dixon added a third little girl to his clan. Craig Hyatt now has two rug rats. AJ and Chelsea Hendel and Robbie Glenn are adding another to their teams. Kate (Kennedy) Vance, Laura (Walsh) and Eric Evans, Zach Thompson, and David Day are all proud parents now. Angelica (Plazas) and Adam Bergoo will be welcoming their 2037 grad into the world soon. Tyler and Ashley (Maddox) Hewko, Mike McVay, Mark Muller, Sean Perry, Drew Jaszczack and Jason Pallo are all expecting their first early next year.

MARRIED:

Ashley Snyder shows off one of Google’s nap pods. I know a few offices that could use one of those.

That is all of the new info I have to share with the class. Please send me your updates and shout outs.

I would love to share them with everyone and keep us all connected. So call me, send me a message on Facebook, or look me up in global. I look forward to hearing about your amazing adventures!

Marisa (Whitaker) King taking her vows!

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 139

CLASS NEWS Mike Wagner, Dave Fondacaro, Chris Damele, Phil Cho, and Matt Pineda all took their vows too!

ENGAGED: Dan Gnazzo and Trey Eaton are both engaged!

NEW JOBS: Dan Castle will be running in Rio at the 2016 Olympics! Brad Dewees is going to get his PhD! Brandon Sullivan finished an Ironman while doing his time in Korea! He’s also getting married!

After paying their FAIP dues, Bob Barlow and Addison Harding are flying F-16s! Joe Spitz, Jay Moore, and Ty Clark are all headed back to UPT to teach the rookies everything they know. After his FAIP tour, Mitch Fossum is headed to fly the F-15E at Lakenheath.

OTHER SPOOGE: Mike Knapp’s dream of flying with Greg Oswald as his copilot may finally come true!

SHAMELESS PLUG: Check out www.crashpadsinaltus.com! Classmate owned! If you ever need a place to stay in Altus, OK you need to look no further than the Bat Cave!

–Forrest Underwood, PSC 2, Box 9538, APO AE 90012; forrestunderwood@gmail.com; Facebook: Forrest J. Underwood First off, I want to apologize for the lack of a submission in last quarter’s Checkpoints. I was in the middle of a PCS and simply did not have the time to put together an update. And what a whirlwind quarter it has been!

Stacey Fenton got engaged in July. Jordan Craft, Stephen Renner, and my good friend Wayne Black all got married this quarter! Also, we have several possible future USAFA grads to report: Melisaa Beerse and Anthony Hemphill, Isaac Metroka and Brian Thorn families are all expecting, and Danielle Boeke (McCarty) gave birth to a beautiful baby girl! Congratulations to her!

I finished up my time in Japan and closed out my stay with a quick trip to Kyoto and Hiroshima. Both places are full of culture and history and easily accessed Members by bullet train (Shinkansen) from Tokyo. Highly recommend both 40% to anyone traveling to Japan! After coming back to the States, I took a cross-country road trip from my home in Oregon to my duty station in Florida. Got to see quite a few states I hadn’t been to before, Sabre Society but unfortunately didn’t get to reDonors ally stay/enjoy too many of them 3 with my report date pressing.

Since arriving at Hurlburt, it’s been a trove of 2010 grads! Andrea Barry (Wise) is here crosstraining from helos into the same airframe as her husband, Matt; Joe Ignatowski and Brock Logan are in gunships, and Tori Hight (Lalich) came down for PA. Marcellus McKinnley is also here, though expecting a PCS soon. Though not at Hurlburt, Mike Bates, Stephanie Roose and Althea Ridenour (Johnston) are also expecting PCS in the near future.

I’m sure several of you will be in the area as you

2010

140 · usafa.org

come through Maxwell for SOS. If your travels bring you down to the Emerald Coast, please swing by and say hi!

Lastly, I would be remiss if I did not reserve the final thought to honor our dear friends and classmates Jordan Pierson and Matt Roland. Both were outstanding airmen, officers, and classmates and will be missed by their friends and families. A toast… ’Til next time, blue skies and tailwinds!

Alex Parmater married Alexandra Jackson on May 30th, 2015, near their home in Destin, FL. Classmates in attendance were his Best Man, Travis Adams, groomsmen Mike Chambers and Ryan Curry, and finally his saber bearers were Chase Darden, Zach Carroll, Woody Johnson, Tristan Newkirk, Reggie Howard, and Bryan Gilbreath. Others in attendance were father, Alan Parmater (Class of 1986); and Todd Meyer (Class of 2005).

–Todd Gamiles, 2010checkpoints@gmail.com

2011

Greetings Class of 2011!

I know I have been absent in our Checkpoints magazine recently, but I do have some class updates for you this issue!

I have just finished JOAX 16-01 and I was able to participate in the exercise with not only other C-130J brethren, but classmates from the C-17 community, as well! In attendance from Charleston Air Force Base was Jessie Stimpson from McChord Air Force Base were Tom Chandler and Cal Lampela, who was a huge help with DRC;and from Little Rock Air Force Base, working hard as the mission planning cell for the C-130Js were Patrick Steppe and Raf Kessler! The exercise had its ups and downs, but I am sure everyone learned something and got better from it!

Now on to class news: Carmilya Boykin emailed me when she wasn’t getting ready for her awesome figure competition to let me know that she and 1st Lt Steve Jones (Class of 2012) were marMembers ried in Holy Matrimony on 7 Sep 31% 2015 aboard the Carnival Ecstasy in Miami, FL. To celebrate their marriage, they were surrounded by their parents, Steve and Selva Jones, and Natalie Boykin, as well as many friends and family. Steve is a 63A stationed at Eglin AFB, FL Sabre Society Donors and Carmilya is a 13N stationed at F.E. Warren AFB, WY. The two will 3 be stationed together in summer 2016 upon completion of their respective tours.

Alexandra and Alex Finally, I got a great email from Katherine Vrana updating me on what she has been doing recently! She was married last year to her husband, Peter, a 2012 West Point graduate, and then last December, theywelcomed their sweet baby girl Elizabeth Rose into the world. She was born on 15 December 2014. I hope she has a wonderful first birthday, Katherine!

I have been very busy flying as of late, as well as getting engaged to Brennan Gallagher! We look forward to our lives together, starting in the fall of 2016 at Moody Air Force Base in Georgia after I spend five months in training at Kirtland Air Force Base to transition from the C-130J platform to the HC-130J platform!

Scribe and Brennan Thank you for your inputs and please keep me up to date so I can let everyone know all of the great thing we are doing!

Cheers, Elizabeth.

Photo 1: Carmilya and Steve

–Elizabeth Borroni, 809 Swiftwater Drive, Abilene, TX 69602; (979) 571-1180; elizabeth.borroni@gmail. com

2012

To the approximate half of you who are finishing your qualifications and beginning to deploy in your respective aircraft, congratulations! The same goes to those of you in similar situations in various medical fields, intelligence, engineering, cyber, maintenance, security forces and other respective Air Force careers. We have all come a long way from where we were two-and-a-half years ago. For this edition, I am going to share with you news about one of our classmates training in the special operations community.

Approximately one year after commissioning, Cameron Urquhart completed tech school, earning his beret as an Air Liaison Officer. He has since been stationed in Ft. Wainwright, AK with the 3rd Air Support Operations Squadron, training to assist our Army friends.

As a Tactical Air Command and Control Specialist he will serve with the Tactical Air Control Party (TACP – pronounced “tack PEE”) Members to advise United States Army 48% commanders on the use of Air Force air power.

Urquhart writes, “Close Air Support (CAS) is an important part of the TACP mission. It is the TACP’s responsibility to coordinate with and direct fighter Sabre Society aircraft to expertly engage the Donors enemy. TACPs communicate 1 with other tactical air and ground units by use of state-of-the-art radios, while mirroring the maneuver capabilities of our Army counterparts. Whether parachuting from 20,000 feet with Special Forces, 800 feet with the 82nd Airborne Division, engaging in tank assault with the 1st Armored Division, or operating deep behind enemy lines with the 75th Ranger Regiment, TACPs live, train, and deploy with Army units.

“While deployed, TACPs live under austere field conditions, and are responsible for the coordination, de-confliction, and execution of all USAF attack aircraft. Qualified individuals, serving as Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs – pronounced “JAY tacks”),

2013

Members

25%

To the most Hap-tastic people I know, While the years seem to continue to roll through faster than any of us could have posSabre Society Donors sibly imagined, it has been fun to transition from the brand new 2 guy in the squadron to one who is a little less new. I think this is painted in a particularly clear way as each of us has gone TDY in one capacity or another, PCS’d, or even started ventures outside of the great USAF. With that, I wanted to first give a shout out to a few ladies who represented 2012: Kelly Laurent, Bridgett Castro (Murphy), Meagan Capra (Eisselle), and Krystin Shanklin. All four of these ladies made a 25-woman roster to represent the U.S. Armed Forces in Mungyeong, Republic of Korea at the International Military Sports Council world games.

A few of those crazy Academy kids hanging out.

An incredible accomplishment and exciting opportunity to represent our country on the international stage. Congratulations ladies!

And just to round out this quick note on how sweet it is to be awesome…

Eric Johnson showing off his sweet AC-130 to old roomie John Cox kicking it on the Charleston ramp.

Thanks guys! Always looking for inputs for the next post. Drop me a line anytime.

–LeRoi Edwards, leroi.edwards@gmail.com Cameron Urquhart and SrA Lineker Valladares

provide final attack control to pilots while they are flying inbound to the target. Legally permitted to announce “Cleared Hot” to pilots as they maneuver for an airstrike, JTACs are one of the crucial elements in the delivery of American Air Power.” Cameron is currently completing his JTAC upgrade.

Here’s a special thank you to all of the friends and family who have h elped Urquhart get to this point today. Pictured is Cameron (front) with SrA Lineker Valladares (back) training on Memorandum of Agreement CAS with A-10s in the Republic of Korea.

Photograph was taken by SSgt Kalani Wakinekona.

If you would like your story included in the next edition just send me an email or contact me via Facebook.

–Andrew Hedman, awhedman91@yahoo.com; andrew.hedman.2@us.af.mil

2014 Members

60%

Twenty Fourteeeeeeeen!

I know you are all out there living that lieutenant life. (And oh, it’s a good one!) So, as amazSabre Society ing things happen in your life Donors – marriage, CGO of the quarter, 0 babies, graduating training, getting a puppy, etc. – shoot myself or Courtney Sheeks a Facebook message or email us at usafa2014updates@gmail. com to tell us about it! Let’s be real; we see it all on Facebook anyway, so let’s make it Checkpoints official (oooh, things are getting serious).

Keep it real, Zeamers. Claire –Claire Palmer, usafa2014updates@gmail.com What’s up Bros! Jonny Kay and Timmy T here, keeping you up to speed with the rest of the class doings. We’ll be posting one of these newsletters quarterly, so keep your copy of Checkpoints handy. The only catch for this whole process is that we will need information from all of you to help make these updates as vibrant, interesting, and exciting as possible, even in this age of social media. So let us know about any weddings, births of children, exciting assignments, or even just get-togethers with other Bros; we’d like to hear about it all and let everyone else know as well. If not, we’re going to have to make something up.

Now for the update: We’ve had a slew of weddings since we were allowed to get married, so here’s a list of all the newlyweds that we know about (emphasis on “we know about.” Please send us a note to tell us if you got married!). Here goes:

2015

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 141

CLASS NEWS Adam and Ashley Davis, Brandon and Caroline Belcher, Austin and Kailey Heckman, Karl and Hailey (MacLeod) Schroeder, Tucker and AJ Brown, Andrew and Stephanie Barth, James and Kerri (Schmidt) Kegyes, Kiersten (Schmidt) and Travis Schriner, Tim and Kate Severance, Paul and Kelsie Moberg, Jake and Grace Brodacz, Austin and Kirsten Cooner, Alex and Kaitlynn Trembly, Brett and Tiffanie Fabian, David and Jessica Thomas, Michael and Leah Bentley, and Austin and Hallie Hill.

Also, Chris and Meghan McNerney, Jordan and April Snyder, Members Carter and Brenna McElhany, 60% Hunter and Kinsey Moody, Chad and Danika Demers, Dave and Mary Beth Saunders, Alex and Cambria Hooks, Pat and Melissa (Baldauff) Dunkel, Christian and Zuleika Spears. Andrew and Melanie Dane, Justin and Rahni Sabre Society (Giardina) Moon, Andy and MorDonors gan Andrews, Robert and Brigid 0 Gutierrez, Luke and Jacky Welch, Zach and Rebekah Provchy, Scott and Libby (Schofield) Adler, Anthony and Hope Bizzaco, and Bradley and Brianna Snadecki.

Most of us had incredible and unforgettable 60days experiences. We’ll highlight a few: Emily Willson, along with classmates Winston Sanks and Dylan Judeman joined Col Marty France (USAFA ’81, DFAS)

142 · usafa.org

in climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. They even carried a copy of Checkpoints!

Aleks Akiyama went TDY to Busan, South Korean with the LEAP program. He had a host family and attended language classes for 2-4 hours per day. In addition, he got to do tons of travel around the country!

Misha Ignacio also had a sweet 60 days, traveling the world from California to California. She hit up places in Germany, England, Croatia, Italy, France, Singapore, Japan, and the Philippines. She ended up

at Tyndall AFB after going to French Guiana for LEAP. She’ll be attending UABMT. This photo is with fellow classmates Mark Manley and Lauren Faulkner in front of Mt Fuji!

Lots of us are in training, or waiting to start training, but some of us are jumping right into it. For example, Christophe Mateo is the accessories flight commander with the 1st FW, 1 MXG, 1st MXS, “America’s Oldest Team.” He is directly managing 46 F-22s, and 6.7 billion dollars.

Tim Thornburg is keeping busy being in the English department. Call their office if you’re bored. If you come through Sheppard AFB for anything (like aircraft maintenance school), make sure to say hi.

That’s it for now; please send us a quick note about what you’re up to!

–Jonathan Kay and Tim Thornburg, 2015classnews@gmail

Checkpoints · December 2015 · 143

BIRD’S-EYE VIEW Written By: Jeff Holmquist

FINAL APPROACH 144 · usafa.org

About 1,000 bed sheets helped send a message of support to the crew of the International Space Station (ISS) on Sept. 10, 2015. As part of the Class of 1995’s 20th reunion celebration, bed sheets were borrowed from the cadets and several Colorado Springs hotel chains donated additional sheets to help spell out “KTP95” on the Cadet Area terrazzo lawn. The Class of 1995 motto, “Keep The Pride, ’95,” was directed at classmate Kjell N. Lindgren ’95, who was part of the ISS crew at the time. The special “spirit mission” was coordinated with the help of cadets, Class of 1995 alumni, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), USAFA leadership and clear Colorado skies.

BONUS CONTENT

Cadet improves production levels at WalMart distribution center

By Jennifer Green-Lanchoney | U.S. Air Force Academy Office of Research 10/7/2015 - U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY. Colo. -- Editor’s note: This is the third story in a three-part series on the Air Force Academy’s Cadet Summer Research Program. Each summer, through the CSRP, more than 100 cadets spend several weeks at private and public research facilities around the world where they apply their classroom knowledge to a variety of military research topics. This year, cadets visited the Facebook campus in California; Sandia Laboratories in New Mexico and Walmart headquarters in Arkansas.

A

n Air Force Academy cadet worked with WalMart employees this summer to increase production at the popular retailers’ distribution center in Bentonville, Arkansas.

Cadet 1st Class Matthew Sprague, a management major at the Academy, worked with WalMart’s Performance Visibility Team in the 19-acre distribution center, also the company’s headquarters, to research shortfalls in the company’s delivery process.

“I (followed) the 4 a.m. shift to learn how to do the job,” he said. “To come up with the best method for doing a job, we took every motion a person does within the job and assigned a time value to it. By the end, we come up with a dynamic goal for improving production.”

When Sprague arrived in Bentonville, the company’s longstanding goal of preparing a number of cases an hour for shipment was hit-or-miss.

“With the heavy cases they used, it was about (less) cases an hour,” he said. “When moving little cases, it was about (far more).

“Once you assign labor standards, you have a goal that is realistic.”

Sprague said he used his classroom knowledge of production and distribution sequence and labor standards to address the challenge.

“It was different from a lot of the experience I’ve had solving problems, especially in a classroom setting, where there is a formula you follow step by step,” he said.

Sprague also revamped the center’s pre-shipment storage method.

“By turning the shelves toward each other, WalMart employees can stock both sides,” he said. “They can load twice the cases in the same amount of time.”

Retired Brig. Gen. Gary Profit, the senior director of military programs for WalMart, said WalMart officials were impressed with Sprague’s ability to improve their processes.

“He really ‘killed it’ with our team. We were all very impressed,” he said. “His efforts are expected to bring in $250,000 annual savings to Walmart.”

BONUS CONTENT

AIRMEN IN C-130 CRASH IDENTIFIED, MEMORIALIZED; 1 IS ACADEMY GRAD 455th Air Expeditionary Wing

10/5/2015 - BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan (AFNS) -- The six Airmen assigned to the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing who died Oct. 2 when their C-130J Super Hercules crashed shortly after takeoff from Jalalabad Airfield, Afghanistan, were identified Oct. 3 by the Defense Department.

Killed in the crash were: Capt. Jordan Pierson, a 2010 graduate of the Air Force Academy; Capt. Jonathan Golden, Staff Sgt. Ryan Hammond, Senior Airman Quinn Johnson-Harris, Senior Airman Nathan Sartain and Airman 1st Class Kcey Ruiz. Pierson, Golden, Hammond and Johnson-Harris were deployed from the 317th Airlift Group at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, while Sartain and Ruiz were deployed from the 66th Security Forces Squadron at Hanscom AFB, Massachusetts.

The wing held a morning fallen comrade ceremony to honor the Airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice while doing their duty on the combat frontier and to allow their wingmen to pay their respects and mourn their loss.

After a brief prayer from a wing chaplain, the fallen Airmen’s squadron commanders were given the opportunity to address the gathered service members and offer their thoughts.

Lt. Col. Mitchell Spillers, the 774th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron commander, offered condolences and a message to support those grieving, while reminding all to stay focused on the mission at hand to honor the sacrifices of the lost Airmen.

“We’ve taken a blow, but I’m proud of the way we’ve come together and supported each other. That must continue,” Spillers said. “We’re a tactical airlift unit that provides a lifeline to our forces (that no one) else can. Our mission will continue and we must carry on. Jordan, JJ, Ryan and JH all loved what we do, and would expect nothing less.”

Maj. Met Berisha, the 455th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron commander, echoed that the fallen Airmen loved what they did, and added they did their duty without regard for their own safety to deliver airpower capabilities here. He emphasized that Airmen must stay strong and continue the mission.

Maj. Met Berisha (left), the 455th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron commander; Brig. Gen. David Julazadeh (center), the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing commander; and Lt. Col. Mitchell Spillers, the 774th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron commander. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Cierra Presentado)

“I KNEW THAT WITHOUT A DOUBT, THAT WHEN OUR NATION SENT AN AIRCRAFT INTO HARM’S WAY INTO AN UNSECURED AND DANGEROUS AFGHAN AIRFIELD THAT THE AIRCREW AND AIRCRAFT WERE DEFENDED

BY THE FINEST SECURITY FORCES AIRMEN OUR AIR FORCE COULD POSSIBLY DELIVER.” “We must mount up and get back to our posts, get back to our patrols, and get back in those aircraft and continue to do what we do best: project combat airpower for our nation,” Berisha said. “We all know deep in our hearts, defenders, that’s exactly what Sartain and Ruiz would have wanted.”

Spillers later said his lost Airmen were some of his finest.

“This was one of my best crews; they had a positive impact on everyone around them,” Spillers said. “They served honorably and will forever be remembered as true tactical airlifters. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and we will do everything in our power to comfort them during this time of loss.”

Berisha added that Sartain and Ruiz were the type of Airmen every commander sought to have on their team.

“I knew that without a doubt, that when our nation sent an aircraft into harm’s way into an unsecured and dangerous Afghan airfield that the aircrew and aircraft were defended by the finest security forces Airmen our Air Force could possibly deliver,” Berisha said. “Simply put, Ruiz and Sartain loved securing and projecting combat airpower for our nation. Their families not only raised fine American patriots, but they raised heroes that we all had the humble honor and phenomenal privilege to serve alongside with here.”

Chief Master Sgt. Matt Grengs, the 455 AEW command chief, said Airmen across the wing grieve for the lost Airmen, but reminded everyone to pull together and continue the mission to honor their sacrifice.

“Today, we paused to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice as part of the Vulture Nation,” he said. “We can only hope that the anguish of the families of these fallen heroes is tempered with the knowledge that their loved ones died doing what they loved for the nation they loved. They did not die in vain. It is our duty to finish the work of these fallen comrades.”

Brig. Gen. Dave Julazadeh, the 455th AEW commander, said today was about honoring those whose lives were cut short and not forget their sacrifices.

“Today was a tough day for the Vulture Nation. We mourned with the families of Jordan, JJ, Ryan, JH, Nathan and Kcey,” he said. “We owe it to these warriors to complete the mission for which they gave their lives, to protect and defend the freedoms upon which our great nation was built. We must never forget them or the sacrifices they made.”

CADET CHAPEL SERVES CADETS, ACADEMY STAFF, FOR 52 YEARS

BONUS CONTENT

Commentary by Chaplain (Col.) Randall Kitchens 10/7/2015 - U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY. Colo. -- Editor’s note: Last month, the Cadet Chapel at the Air Force Academy, arguably one of the most recognizable buildings in Colorado Springs, if not the state, will have been a focal-point for serving the spiritual needs of cadets for 52 years.

T

he religious and spiritual pluralism supported at the Academy is as diverse as our cadet population, so it makes sense we acknowledge the anniversary of the construction of this very popular facility.

The Cadet Chapel represents an iconic place of worship for all faiths.

It’s a symbol of hope. As the Academy’s chaplain, I find it refreshing to know any faith group has the opportunity to freely exercise their faith tenets or practices here under one roof, unlike any other service academy. In all, the cadets comprising the cadet wing represent more than 100 religious affiliations or philosophies. We provide a place of respect, acceptance, solace and sanctuary for all. If a cadet is struggling in any area of his or her, they can seek help from our Cadet Chapel team of chaplains and chaplain assistants, who comprise our religious support teams, and get the help they seek. We serve the religious needs of Academy staff members and our visitors often stop by the Academy to attend religious services.

Weekly chapel attendance here has not been mandatory since June 30, 1972, when the U. S. Court of Appeals ruled that compulsory chapel attendance at the three United States service academies was unconstitu-

CADET CHAPEL FACTS • The architecture company, Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, of Chicago, designed the chapel • The Cadet Chapel was awarded the American Institute of Architects’ National Twentyfive Year Award in 1996 and named a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 2004.

• The chapel is 159 feet tall • The chapel’s shell and the grounds surrounding the building cost $3.5 million to build. Many furnishings, including the chapel’s pipe organs, liturgical fittings and adornments, were gifts from various private donors and organizations. A designated Easter offering was taken across the Air Force in 1959 to help fund the completion of the chapel’s interior.

• The chapel was designed to house three worship areas under a single roof - for Protestants, Catholics and Jewish. A Buddhist sanctuary and a Muslim chapel are located also located in the chapel.

• The chapel features an all-faiths room

tional. There are no mandates to attend or to not attend. Our goal is to provide a comfortable environment to meet the cadets’ needs.

All major Air Force installations have a chapel so the Air Force Academy is in line with the Defense Department directives to provide a dedicated place for Airmen and their families to exercise their faith. Many cadets search for that opportunity to explore and exercise their faith, and the Cadet Chapel is the focal point. Simply said, if there is a religious need, we will work with the individual and provide services.

It’s not just cadets, Academy staff and their families who use the Cadet Chapel. We host nearly half a million visitors each year, many who visit the Academy specifically to see our iconic chapel. I hope that the chapel, when seen from the interstate, is viewed as a symbol of hope and peace.

Regardless of an individual’s faith or their choice of no faith, the Cadet Chapel is a visible symbol of the Academy’s commitment to religious freedom for all.

Whether you attend any form of religious services at the chapel, I hope you find it as inspiring as I do that for 52 years, our chapel has represented our nation and our Academy’s deep respect for religious pluralism. What could be more American than that?

POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Checkpoints, Association of Graduates, Doolittle Hall, 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475.

Vince Rusinak, ’68 Vince@Rusinak.com

Nancy Rusinak Brother, R. Berthiaume, ’73

Nancy@Rusinak.com

www.RusinakRealEstate.com Rusinak Real Estate, Inc. 7160 North Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80920 719.590.6110