The Official Publication of theCoast Guard Aviation Association The Ancient Order of the Pterodactyl

Sitrep 3-17 Fall 2017 AOP is a non profit association of active & retired USCG aviation personnel & associates

C O N T E N T S President’s Corner……………...... 2 New Enlisted Ancient Al Welcomed Aboard...... 3 Enlisted Ancient Al Report to Pteros………….3 CGC Oliver Berry Accepted by CG………………....4 Intl. Forest of Friendship Induction……….....4 The ‘Racing Stripe’—50 Years of CG Identity…..5 2017 Roost Re-cap…………………………..…...7 AirSta Cape Cod Holds Air Medal Ceremony…..11 CG Flight Training During the Past 100 Yrs.12 Ancient Al #25 Letter to Pteros……………...... 13 AirSta Traverse City Transitions to H-60.....13 Ptero Participates in CGC Commissioning…..…13 The ‘Duck’ Memorial—Honoring WWII Heroes.14 AirSta Sitka Highlighted…………………….…..15 New Aviators & ATTC Grads……...…...…...18 Membership Application/Renewal/Order Form..19

Pforty-pfirst CGAA Roost Ptero CDR Stewart Graham, Aviator 114 Celebrated in Atlantic City & CG Helo Pilot #2, Interred at Arlington National Cemetery Our outstanding pforty -pfirst annual gathering On 26 October (the 45th anniversary of the passing of Igor honoring CO Ptero Sikorsky), CDR (Ret.) Stewart R. Graham, who passed away on CAPT Eric ‘Jackie’ 13 August 2016, and his wife Mae, were interred at Arlington Gleason, Av. 3316, and National Cemetery in Arlington, VA. About 30 members of the the men and women of Graham family, along with Ptero Sergei Sikorsky and his wife, Air Station Atlantic City Elena, Ptero Prez Jim Van Sice, Ancient Albatross RADM was held at the Resorts Charles Ray, former Ancient Al VADM John Currier, Av. 1877, Casino Hotel in Atlantic (who coordinated the ceremony logistics), Pteros AEC Mike City from 13-15 Sep- Ruhlin, P-4254 (who provided beautiful souvenir toasting glass- tember! BZ to Roost co- es), RADM Rudy Peschel, Av. 1146, RADM Mel Bouboulis, chairs Pteros Dale Av. 2915, and numerous other Pteros, spouses, and Active Duty Goodreau, Av. 1710, & Coasties attended. Ptero Joe Kimball, Av. 3211, presided. As a Jeff Pettit, Av. 2188, & fitting tribute to Stew, their committee: Laura there was a breathtaking Goodreau, Nanci Pettitt, Christine Hunt, Steve Baxter, Av. 3782, formation flyover by an Pteros Doug Daeffler, Av. 2193, Tom King, Av. 1775, Smith MH-60 and an MH-65. Kalita, Av. 2377, Cathie Zimmerman, P-2449, Jim Hubbard, Av. One of the highlights 2375, Phil Volk, Av. 1644, Jay Crouthers, Av. 1360, Paul Ratte, mentioned about Stew’s Av. 2539, Bob Powers, Av. 1458, & CG Auxiliarists Joseph career was that he was Smith, Paul Casalese, Lawrence Galiano, Tawney Gutierrez, & designated as a helicop- Pteros Rev. Tom Brouillard, Kathryn Krukiel, & Warren Iredell. ter pilot after only three Please see Page seven for a report of the proceedings. hours of instruction from CAPT Frank Erickson. [See STEW GRAHAM on P. 2]

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Your mailing label includes the DATE to which YOUR TAX DEDUCTIBLE AOP DUES ACCOUNT is AOK. IF THE DATE READS June 2017, PLEASE PAY AGAIN NOW TO REMAIN IN GOOD STANDING. Check out page 19 or the website. MOVING?? Please let us know. http://www.aoptero.org/htm/newmbr.html for the renewal application and current dues. A Message from 1777 (CGAA/AOP President): Executive Board President Greetings, Fellow Pterodactyls: Another summer has passed and we have RADM Jim Van Sice held yet another “roost,” this one in Atlantic City. Dale and Laura Good- (703) 256-3093 reau and the team of volunteers that assisted them did a spectacular job of putting on a very enjoyable and affordable middle of the week “roost.” I Executive Vice President personally enjoyed the comradery of all those in attendance. Jeff Pettitt did Mark D’Andrea a great job as MC, and may have earned that role for future “roosts.” (253) 394-4642 CAPT “Jackie” Gleason and all of AirSta Atlantic City were terrific hosts. The active duty participation was great especially considering the operational commitments incurred by Executive Director multiple hurricanes impacting the South and Southeast. VADM Charlie Ray and AMTCM Ben Stoppe Kit Harris attended as well as HQ representatives from Ops., Engineering and Safety. Congratulations to our award winners! (703) 901-8430 I also attended the Ancient Enlisted Albatross Change of Watch ceremony in Savannah on July 14th where ASMCM Clay Hill was relieved by AMTCM Kit Harris. Thanks to Executive Secretary AirSta Savannah and the CG for continuing to honor our aviation personnel and their ser- Paul Milligan vice in such a meaningful way. (703) 730-3647 I was honored to be able to attend the memorial and interment service for CG helicopter pilot number two, Stewart Graham. I think virtually every aviator at CGHQ turned out for Treasurer the ceremony, and meeting CDR Graham’s family was a wonderful experience. I want to Ben Stoppe thank VADM (Ret.) John Currier for his efforts to ensure the family was appropriately informed and hosted in the military environment surrounding the services and reception. Asst. Treasurer We will be embarking on a couple of projects in the near future that will require mem- Vacant bership approval. First is the renovation of an HH-3F that is currently located at the Na- tional Naval Aviation Museum. The cost estimate is $30K, with completion of the restora- Board Members tion scheduled for ninety days from project approval and it will be displayed on a concrete Vice Pres. History pad outside the CG exhibit. The second project is one of which I have just become aware John ‘Bear’ Moseley and has not yet been vetted within the Executive Board. However, I believe it could be the Scribe/Editor most important work ever undertaken by our organization. We may (with membership Steve Goldhammer approval) have an opportunity to partner with a company to locate and recover the remains Vice Pres. Development of LT Pritchard and his aircrew RM1Benjamin Bottoms. LT Pritchard’s sister still resides Vacant in Annapolis and Benjamin Bottoms’ son is still alive. We may have the chance to bring Vice Pres. Communications/ home the remains of the last two CG aviation MIAs from World War II. I plan to meet Media Support with the company President in very early November. Gary Gamble Finally, in accordance with our by-laws, we are overdue to hold an election to replace ALPTERO Coordinator our 4 elected officers. We have not been successful in develop [See PREZ MSG. on P. 4] Tom Rich Membership Data Base Mgr. Gary Grow Taps We regret to report that the following members have recently logged their last Historian flight: Tom Beard Diana M. Jones (Spouse of Ptero Kyle Jones, 1438), 7/12/17 Vice Pres. Annual Gatherings Jay Crouthers Sue Fritts (Spouse of Ptero James Fritts, P-3336, Deceased), 8/13/17 Vice Pres. Membership Robert A. Carlston, 688, 8/16/17 Jack McGrath Jeffrey J. Hamilton, 1355, 8/15/17 Norman Paulhus, Jr. P-3162, 8/25/17 Paul Langlois-at large Teresa Coursey (Spouse of Ptero Roger Coursey, 1619), 8/23/17 Ancient Albatross VADM Charles Ray-ex officio Myrna Resnick (Spouse of Ptero Paul Resnick, 906), 8/__/17 Enlisted Ancient Albatross RADM William Schwob, P-2718, 9/20/17 ASTCM Clay Hill-ex officio Joan Johanson (Spouse of Ptero RADM Robert Johanson, 869), 10/29/17

PTEROGRAM is published three times STEW GRAHAM FROM 1 A reception (graciously funded by the Sikorsky Aircraft annually as the official publication of Division of the Lockheed Martin Co.) followed at Patton Hall, the Ft. Myer All Hands’ The Ancient Order of the Pterodactyl Club. Several moving tributes to Stew were presented. The CG Historian’s office provid- which perpetuates recognition of USCG ed a wonderful display and slide show of Stew’s career achievements at the reception. aviation history and its personnel. (Photos courtesy of Mattox Photography) [See related story in Pterogram 3-16...Ed] Reproduction of Pterogram for further distribution is authorized & encouraged. Correspondence may be sent to: AOP P.O. Box 940 Troy, VA 22974 or Editor, Pterogram 4816 Powder House Drive Rockville, MD 20853 Email: [email protected] CAPT Kimball presents Ross Graham (L, Stew’s son), neph- Stew’s flag to Ross Graham ew Sam Lester, VADM Currier, & 2 Pterogram - Fall 2017 and other family members. Stew’s son, Bill Graham, toast Stew. Enlisted Ancient Albatross Change of Watch Ceremony Master Chief Hill congratulates Mas- ter Chief Harris after transferring the Conducted title of the Enlisted Ancient Albatross. By CG 7th District Public Affairs Det. Jacksonville The Enlisted Ancient Albatross Award was established in 1988 for the enlisted Ptero Prez RADM Jim Van Sice, Aviator member on active duty with the earliest 1777, represented the CGAA at the cere- graduation date from “A” school in a mony. He presented Master Chief Hill aviation rating. with a hatching egg with a Pterodactyl emerging and a framed Rescue Swimmer pennant from the CGAA and Master Chief Harris with his Ancient Albatross Designation Certificate and a framed print of the first CG aircraft on behalf of the Foundation for CG History.

ADM Paul Zukunft, Commandant of the CG, addresses the audience on July 14, 2017 during the Ancient Albatross ceremony at Air Station Savannah, GA. Master Chief Clay Hill transferred the AMTCM Kit Harris addresses the title of ancient albatross to Master Chief audience. Harris is the 11th Enlisted Kit Harris while Zukunft presided over Ancient Albatross and the AMT Rating the ceremony. (USCG photos by PO3 Force Master Chief at CG Headquarters. Ryan Dickinson)

ASTCM Hill addresses the audience. Hill is the 10th Enlisted Ancient Alba- tross and the AST Rating Force Master Chief at CG Headquarters.

ASTCM Hill transfers the Enlisted An- cient Al garb to AMTCM Harris. A retirement ceremony for ASTCM Hill and a reception funded by the CGAA followed.

Enlisted Ancient Al #11 Report to Pteros he flew around with his dog. I was de- It was an honor to attend this year’s lighted to hear these stories about CGAA Roost in Atlantic City! My wife, the original owner of the Ancient Amber, and I really enjoyed the tour of Albatross flight jacket/coat. What a Cape May. The real highlight was the great opportunity to learn a little banquet on Thursday evening. I was history from the people that lived it. honored to assist in presenting awards to Thank you Pterodactyls! this year’s winners. However, the best I recently met with the ATTC part of the roost for me was at the end of leadership and discussed numerous that evening when I had the opportunity C School training initiatives. I also to speak to the aviator with the earliest took the opportunity to meet with all pilot number. I don’t recall his name but of the current AMT A School it was announced that he went to the CG Academy in 1946. As we were discuss- students. This was an outstanding op- ing the Ancient Albatross leather coat, I portunity to pass information and hold explained to him that it was an authentic discussions on topics that are affecting flight jacket on loan from NAS Pensaco- the rating. I addressed the Graduating la. Then I showed him the name tag and AMT A School Class 135-17, and pre- wings on the leather coat, bearing the sented a coin to the Honor Graduate, name D Gershowitz. He replied that he AMT3 Christopher Gutierrez. knew D Gershowitz and then shared Ptero Kit Harris, P-4427 some memories about him. He said they called him the “Flying Rabbi” and that Fall 2017 - Pterogram 3 CGC Oliver Berry (WPC 1124) Accepted by Coast Guard LT La’Shanda Holmes Inducted into International Forest of Friendship

CG Photo by LTJG Peter Driscoll

On 27 June, the Coast Guard accepted the CGC Oliver Ber- ry, the 24th Fast Response Cutter built by Bollinger Ship- yards, in a ceremony at CG Sector Key West. The 154- foot cutter with a crew of 24 will be homeported in Honolu- lu. The Oliver Berry is tenta- tively scheduled for commis- sioning in October in Honolu- lu. It is the first Fast Response Nestled just west of the Missouri River Cutter to be stationed in D14. is a small town of less than 13,000 where the spirit of Amelia Earhart is alive and well. It is here that in the late 70’s the Gander Rescue Crew (L to R): LT A. town along with the Ninety-Nines - an N. Fisher; LT Stewart R. Graham; international organization of women pilots CPO Oliver F. Berry, ACMM; CPO - partnered to create the International For- Leo Brzycki, ACMM; CPO Cozy El- est of Friendship (IFoF). The IFoF is a dridge, ACMM; and PO1 Merwin collection of trees and a memorial forest Westerberg, AMM1c. Photo illustra- dedicated to the men and women engaged tion (black/white original) by PO2 in aviation and aerospace. With each step Seth Johnson. through the winding path of the forest lies an engraved stone with names such as der Of Leopold II from the Belgian mon- General Colin Powell, Chuck Yeager, archy for his efforts. He passed away in Sally Ride, Ptero VADM Vivien Crea, 1991. Aviator 1820, and the Wright Brothers – The Fast Response Cutter is replacing each of them with their own state tree. The CO LT Kenneth Franklin accepts the aging Island-class 110-foot patrol newest addition to the forest lies in front CGC Oliver Berry from Mr. Alan boats and features advanced command, of the North Carolina White Pine: LT Harker, FRC contracting officer. control, computers, intelligence, surveil- La’Shanda Renee Holmes, Aviator 4259. The cutter’s namesake, Oliver Berry, lance and reconnaissance equipment, as LT Holmes is a native of Fayetteville, is the first enlisted helicopter mechanic well as an over-the-horizon cutter boat. NC and no stranger to adversity; losing in naval aviation history and was an She features advanced seakeeping capa- her mother at the age of two and later instrumental part in pioneering the use bilities and can achieve speeds of more adopted by a family relative. Years later – of the helicopter for Search and Rescue than 28 kts. She has an endurance of five because of dysfunction in the home – after WWII. In September 1946, he suc- days. The CG plans to procure 58 Fast Holmes was placed into the foster care cessfully disassembled a helicopter at Response vessels. system where she moved home to home AirSta Brooklyn, organized transporta- Oliver Berry is designed for multiple until finally finding a family prior to grad- tion from to Newfoundland, missions, including law enforcement, uating high school. LT Holmes, deter- Canada, and reassembled the helicopter fisheries enforcement, waterways and mined to forge a new way for herself, for use to rescue 18 stranded passengers coastal security, search and rescue, and worked on an assembly line in Fayette- of a Belgian airliner that crashed near national defense. (D14 News Release) ville, North Carolina to save money to Gander, Newfoundland. He subsequent- afford to go to her dream school – Spel- ly received the Silver Medal of the Or- man College. That dream came true for her in the fall of 2007, but little did she PREZ MSG. FROM 2 ing a slate. While Ben Stoppe, Mark D’Andrea and I are will- know that change was still to come. ing to serve another term as Treasurer, VP and President if no replacement volunteers During a career fair at Spelman College, are seeking those positions, Paul Milligan has asked to be relieved of the position of LT Holmes, now a Bonner Scholar in her sophomore year, was promoting commu- Secretary. If you are willing to serve, please contact me at [email protected]. nity service opportunities at a booth adja- Fly safely! Jim Van Sice, Ptero 1777 4 Pterogram - Fall 2017 cent to a USCG recruiter: Senior Chief der the Obama Administration. Here she The North Carolina Pine (often called Dexter Lindsey (ret). All day she worked in DC with the highest levels of the Eastern White Pine) has been known watched the recruiter attempt to per- government, studied policy issues domesti- throughout history for its fast growth and suade the young women to come to his cally and abroad, and served as the Special tolerance for harsh soil - the same can be booth and learn more about the Coast Assistant to the NASA Administrator, Gen- said for LT Holmes. In spite of the cir- Guard with many failed (but comical) eral Charles F. Bolden. LT La’Shanda cumstances, LT Holmes has risen to the attempts. Holmes, feeling sorry for the Holmes was inducted into the International occasion and has grown into a respected recruiter, walks over at the end of the Forest of Friendship on June 17, 2017 in role model, officer, and pilot. Never rest- day to thank him for his service to our Atchison, Kansas….just a few stones away ing on her laurels, she has regained her country and for attending the career from her previous boss and astronaut, Gen. Aircraft Commander status and in June fair. He then says “Well, can I tell you Bolden. 2017 was accepted to the Council on a little about the Coast Guard”? Foreign Relations – an independent, non- “Sure,” Holmes replies. Within five partisan, think-tank based out of DC and minutes, Holmes was sold on the Col- NYC. lege Student Pre-Commissioning Initi- LT Holmes is now stationed at Air Sta- ative (CSPI) program and by that sum- tion where she predominately flies mer she was off to boot camp. Search and Rescue, Counter Drug, and After graduating from Spelman Col- Law Enforcement missions. lege, LT Holmes went on to Officer [See related article in Pterogram 2- Candidate School and was immediate- 10...ED] ly accepted to naval aviation flight training in Pensacola, . Upon graduation in May 2010, she became the Coast Guard’s first African- American female to fly helicopters. Holmes served at Air Station Los An- geles and Air Station Atlantic City between 2010-2015 before being se- lected as a Presidential Appointee un-

redeco- ed the CG adopt an identification device The “Racing Stripe”—Fifty years of Coast ration similar to a commercial trademark. The Guard Brand Identity By William H. Thiesen, Ph.D. of the firm believed the symbol should be easily Atlantic Area Historian, United States Coast Guard White identifiable from a distance, easily differ- House. entiated from other government or com- In the modern history of the United The 's also met with architects to mercial emblems, and easily adapted to a States Coast Guard, there has been a direct the design and renovation of build- wide variety of air and sea assets. rapid shift from mistaken identity to a ings surrounding Lafayette Square, a park brand identity. One case provides a located next to the White House. perfect example of this identity prob- Kennedy next undertook a re-design of lem. On ocean station in October 1956, the presidential jet Air Force One. The Coast Guard Cutter Pontchatrain came president believed an initial design provid- to the aid of a downed trans-oceanic ed by the Air Force was too regal looking passenger aircraft. On the 19th, the Pan and, on the advice of the first lady, he American clipper Sovereign of the turned to French-born industrial designer Skies lost two of its engines en route Raymond Loewy, whose work had been from Hawaii to California. After the recognized the world over in the post-war French-born industrial designer Ray- aircraft radioed the cutter and ditched period. Loewy’s Air Force One design won mond Loewy, posing with one of his in the ocean, the cutter sent out its immediate praise from Kennedy and the industrial designs—the streamline lo- smallboats and gathered up all thirty- press and the aircraft became an important comotive. (Library of Congress) one passengers and crew. One survivor symbol of the president and the United no sooner gained the safety of the cut- States in official visits in the U.S. and over- The CG established an ad hoc com- ter’s deck, when he gratefully ex- seas. mittee to work with Loewy-Snaith on the claimed, “Thank goodness for the Na- Delighted by the look of Air Force project and, on June 19th, 1964, the CG vy!” Unfortunately for the Coast One, Kennedy granted Loewy’s request for signed a contract to “accomplish studies, Guard, this case was one of many in a meeting on May 13th, 1963. During the prepare design efforts and make a which the Service seemed unrecog- meeting and a second held a day later, the presentation of a comprehensive and nizable to the public it served. men discussed improving the visual image integrated identification plan for the U.S. John F. Kennedy was acutely of the federal government and Kennedy Coast Guard.” On March 21st, 1965, dur- aware of the importance of image- suggested the Coast Guard as an appropri- ing an all-day session, representatives building, having relied on it in his suc- ate agency to start with. Soon after, the from Loewy-Snaith presented their find- cessful 1960 presidential campaign. design firm of Raymond Loewy-William ings to the Service and on the same When they moved into the White Snaith, Incorporated, received a contract for day CG chief of staff, Rear Admiral House in 1961, the president and First a ninety-day feasibility study and, in Janu- Paul Trimble, agreed to proceed with the Lady Jackie Kennedy began an effort ary 1964, the firm presented its findings to “Integrated Visual Identification Sys- to re-make the image of the presiden- Coast Guard leadership. tem.” cy. With the aid of professional de- With its experience in designing indus- signers, the first lady completed the try trademarks, Loewy-Snaith recommend- Fall 2017 - Pterogram 5 During the development process, celebrate the nation’s Bicentennial and The Integrated Visual Identification Loewy-Snaith selected a wide red bar to Eagle to serve as the host ship, Coast System stands as the most successful the upper right of a narrow blue bar Guard leadership saw an opportunity to branding program of a federal agency in canted at sixty-four degrees and running present the Service’s brand identity to U.S. history. Since the 1970s, the Coast from right to lower left. The Loewy- the world and distinguish Eagle from Guard Racing Stripe design has been Snaith team used its own stylized ver- the other tall ships. The Racing Stripe applied to assets not commonly associat- sion of the traditional Coast Guard em- received a public stamp of approval ed with the Service. With alterations in blem for placement on the center of the when CBS news anchor, experienced coloration and angle, the Racing Stripe red bar. The overall design came to be sailor and OpSail TV commentator, has become a symbol for sea service known as the “Racing Stripe” or “Slash” Walter Cronkite, singled out Eagle and vessels at the federal, state, county and emblem. Next, the Racing Stripe design her Racing Stripe logo with approving municipal levels throughout the U.S. and was tested on cutters and facilities in remarks. for scores of foreign sea services. In the Florida due to milder weather conditions future, Coast Guard assets will continue and the wide variety of sea assets sta- to feature the coloring and emblem de- tioned there. The prototype Slash was veloped fifty years ago to identify the affixed to the cutters Diligence and An- Service and distinguish its assets from droscoggin, a buoy tender, vehicles, and other sea services. buildings at Base Miami. At North Caro- Where many could not identify lina’s Air Station Elizabeth City, the Coast Guard cutters before the Service Slash was affixed to an HH-52 adopted a brand identity, most individu- “Seaguard” helicopter, HU-16 als connected with the water do so now. “Albatross” amphibian and HC-130 Some of this recognition is a credit to the “Hercules” turbo-prop aircraft. many missions carried out by the Coast On May 4th, 1966, the Service’s ad Guard around the clock 365 days a year. hoc committee for testing the Visual However, some of this recognition is a Identification System sent to the com- credit to the Coast Guard’s adoption of mandant a favorable report regarding the Racing Stripe symbol. Thanks to a service-wide use of the Racing Stripe. The Coast Guard’s Barque Eagle, the last visionary president, talented industrial During the prototyping process, the asset to receive the Racing Stripe, took on designers and Coast Guard leaders who Coast Guard’s selection committee had the emblem in 1976, just prior to the OpSail saw the importance of a Service brand decided against the Loewy stylized ’76 celebration. (CG Collection) identity; the assets of the Coast Guard shield and opted for the Service’s tradi- are now easily identified by millions of tional shield emblem instead. While the Over the past fifty years, the Ser- individuals world-wide who share a con- plan received the stamp of approval, vice and its missions have been associ- nection to the sea. details had to be ironed out over several ated with the Racing Stripe symbol and months. By early spring 1967, most out- its unique color scheme. During this standing issues had been resolved, in- time, the U.S. Coast Guard has served cluding the type-font for lettering and throughout the world and collaborated specific paint on variety of levels with foreign coast color specifica- guards and sea services. These activities tions. And, on include training, international patrols, April 6th, 1967, liaison personnel, and advisors to for- Commandant eign sea services. And in modern opera- Edwin Roland tions, such as Operation Iraqi Freedom issued Comman- and the deployment of Cutter Dallas dant Instruction during the war between Russia and 5030.5, which Georgia, the presence of CG cutters ended four years with the Racing Stripe and traditional The distinctive white hull and Racing Stripe of study and color scheme has proved a de-escalating emblem of the Coast Guard served to de- experimentation influence in high-tension maritime mis- escalate tensions during the cutter Dallas’s and ordered ser- sions. This international engagement visit to Georgia, during that country’s hostili- vice-wide imple- has spread the Service’s reputation and ties with neighboring Russia. (CG Collection) mentation of the brand identity throughout the world. Integrated Visual Identification System. Initially, the adoption of the Rac- ing Stripe met with resistance from the Coast Guard’s service culture. However, over the course of the late 1960s and early 1970s, the symbol spread to every maritime and aviation asset in the Ser- vice. By 1975, the Coast Guard’s sail Eagle remained the last asset not sporting the emblem. Tradi- tionalists had long held that the Racing Stripe would destroy her classic lines and opposed application of the emblem In various colors and sizes, the Racing Stripe became a com- to her bow. However, with preparations mon emblem for federal, state and local law enforcement and underway for Operation Sail 1976 to sea service vessels, as with these Customs and Border Patrol assets. (U.S. Customs and Border Patrol) 6 Pterogram - Fall 2017 Atlantic City Ptero Roost Re-cap An excursion to Historic By Ptero Steve Goldhammer, Aviator 1207 was enjoyed by several Roosters as was a visit to the Naval Air Station Wild- wood Museum and Cape May Winery Tour and Tasting. Wednesday night’s Roost Cocktail Reception was at the beautiful Mar- garitaville restaurant adja- cent to the hotel. The food was delicious and the ca- maraderie was superb. After a suspenseful wait, Martitha Taylor (L), Jack McGrath, Jay Taylor, ’Jimmie’ finally made his promised appearance; ‘Pop’ Shelley, Don Vaughn & Ye Ancient Scribe. Ptero Prez ’Jimmie’ Van Sice, not the ’Jimmie’ we At least 20 MH-65s from many AirStas stand ready on 8 September at ATC expected. Mobile to respond to Hurricane Irma’s aftermath after their short respite from responding to Hurricane Harvey. BZ to all CG aviation crews!

Ptero Merrill Wood, Av. 700, (L), Mona Wood, Beth Flythe, Ptero ‘Butch’ Flythe, P-2939, & Judy Alden enjoyed the wine. Bob Powers photo. Our pforty-pfirst annual gathering The oldest Ptero in attend- kicked off in pfine pfashion with the ance was Don Vaughn, renewal of old acquaintances (and mak- Aviator 547. Don is a ing new ones) in the hospitality suite on sprightly 94-years young 12 September. Health issues and the and is our fourth-oldest perils of mother nature, in the form of living Ptero. the remnants of Hurricane Irma, limited 18 golfers participated in our attendance this year to about 150 the Roost best-ball golf hearty souls. Many more Pteros who had tournament at Avalon Golf initially registered had to cancel due to Club on Wednesday. professional responsibilities and/or Irma Thanks to Steve Baxter, -associated priorities. Even the Aviation Aviator 3782, for coordi- CO’s conference, scheduled earlier in nating the event. The beau- the week at ACY, was postponed until tiful day was only inter- November, and rightly so. [Your CGAA rupted by a few passing The Naval Air Station Wildwood Visitors. donated $5K to the Coast Guard Foun- showers. The winning Bob Powers Photo. dation's Disaster Relief and Response team, with a score of 60, Fund for hurricane relief support to was Steve Baxter and Pteros Jim Hub- affected active duty Coast Guard fami- bard, Aviator 2375, and George Heintz, lies. The $5K will be matched by an Aviator 2220. Closest to the pin AND anonymous donor to the Coast Guard longest drive were won by Ptero Bud Foundation...Ed] Tardiff, Aviator 1349. Congrats!

AirSta ACY Command Master Chief AETCM Steve Doria (L) Roost volunteer Ptero The Winners: Bud Tardiff (L), George and CO CAPT ‘Jackie’ Gleason. ‘Smitty’ Kalita Heintz, Steve Baxter, & Jim Hubbard! welcomes Pteros. Fall 2017 - Pterogram 7 Hurricanes Harvey and Irma was made AirSta Houston CO, did an outstanding by Ptero CAPT Joe Kimball, Aviator job hosting over 20 CG helos and many 3211 (CG-711), CAPT Tom MacDon- CG FW assets conducting logistics opera- ald, Aviator 2970 (CG-41), and Ptero tions. The CG rescued over 1,100 people CDR Chris Wright, Aviator 3751 (Chief while safely flying over 1,500 hours. of CG Safety Programs). CAPT Kim- There are videos of some of the rescues ball reported that Ptero Past Prez on the Ptero website. UAVs were also George Krietemeyer, Aviator 913, had used to locate people in distress. recommended that a donation be made Regarding the shortage of CG Rescue to the Morale Fund of each AirSta for a Swimmers, CAPT Kimball said there are post-hurricane all hands pizza party. only two other kinds of people who don’t Prez VanSice thought we should make a mind having someone hold their heads donation to CG Mutual Assistance in- underwater: surfers and water polo play- stead, but that can’t be decided today. ers. The CG has sent people to beaches CDR Wright said change management and swim meets to recruit those kinds of is the latest issue in CG aviation safety people to become Rescue Swimmers. Our hosts, the ‘Blues Brothers’ due to the much more sophisticated They are guaranteed RS school after Jeff Pettitt (L) & Dale Goodreau. aircraft in the inventory. Lots more graduation from boot camp. Right now training and an increased focus on safe- there are about 35 of them in boot camp. ty are needed. Ptero Butch Flythe, P-2939, recommend- There’s a new ed sending ‘Silver Fin’ members to high standardized schools to speak about the Rescue Swim- Risk Manage- mer program. CAPT Kimball said the CG ment frame- brought a retired RS back on active duty work and an for Hurricane Harvey. He said that, Pteros Dave Cooper, Av. 1525, Brian Wallace, Av. 1259, update of the ‘When urgent things pop up, we can do extraordinary things with policy.’ Jay Crouthers, Av. 1360, Jim Perry, Av. 1551, & manual. CAPT Mac- Regarding pilot retention, CAPT Kim- VADM John Currier, Av. 1877, enjoyed the reception. Donald said ball said there has been a great attrition in there have the last five years to the airlines and there The festivities continued on into the been many dynamic changes in CG aren’t enough pilots in the military to fill night at the Hospitality Suite. aviation maintenance and cultural the upcoming airline 65-year old retire- Ptero Prez Van Sice called the annual changes in the aircrews. ment gap. The CG is offering bonuses to CGAA Business meeting to order at CAPT Kimball said we could just not ‘buy up’ obligated service. The CG is 0809 on Thursday. Ptero Goldhammer answer the phone and do nothing at buying predictable attrition; it’s cheaper read the ‘Airman’s Prayer’ and the list of CGHQ and CG aviation would continue than the investment in more CG instruc- deceased members in the past year. Ptero to do its job superbly; e.g., the response tors in Pensacola and Mobile. Dave Cooper, Aviator 1525, gave a to Harvey & Irma. CG aviation’s per- Prez Van Sice mentioned that CAPT presentation commemorating the 75th formance was ‘truly inspiring.’ Regard- Kimball will be retiring next summer. anniversary of Medal of Honor winner ing efforts to recover the crew of the Ptero Executive Director/Treasurer Douglas Munro’s passing at Guadalcanal Grumman J2F-4 ‘Duck’ that crashed in Stoppe gave the Treasurer’s Report: we on 27 September 1942. Greenland in 1942, CAPT Kimball said had $64K of corporate support in 2016, Prez VanSice thanked all present for there was a ceremony in August in Ku- but less so far this year. We’re losing attending and said that, since there were lusuk, Greenland that was attended by retired CG Points of Contact in organiza- only about 50 attendees, we didn’t have a Nancy Pritchard Morgan (93), sister of tions. We urgently need a VP of Devel- quorum of 90 (5% of membership as John Pritchard, John Morgan (Nancy's opment. We’re solvent; our assets are required by Alabama law) so no votes son) and Ed Richardson (stepson of about $150K. Funding of Ptero Flythe’s could be taken. Ptero RADM Dave Kun- Benjamin Bottoms) to honor the presentations to the ATTC graduating kel, Aviator 1726, said that we hardly memory of LT John Pritchard, PO1 classes will continue. Ben reviewed the ever have a quorum at our Business Benjamin Bottoms, & AAF Cpl. Loren status of the Petty Cash fund; new Mem- meetings and suggested that any items Howarth. James Salazar, with Arctic bership VP Ptero Jack McGrath, P-2666, requiring a decision be sent out to the Hotpoint Solutions, had a plaque com- verified the presence of the lockwasher. membership via AlPtero for an electronic missioned to commemorate the 75th Prez Van Sice said since there were no vote. Ptero VanSice remarked that anniversary of the crash while Nancy, candidates there would be no election of CGAA VP Mark D’Andrea, Aviator and her son John, were still living. officers. He recognized attending Spon- 2359, who usually conducted the busi- CAPT Kimball said a funeral service sor reps including Pteros Flythe of Cape- ness meeting, was unable to attend due to will be held on 26 October at 1100 at well Aerial Systems, Joe Mihelic, Aviator Hurricane Irma. Also, CGAA Historian Arlington Nat. Cemetery for Ptero CDR 2414A, of Telephonics Corp., Larry ‘Bear’ Moseley, Aviator 743, who was to (Ret.) Stewart Graham, Aviator 114, Farmer, P-2898, of Switlick Survival receive a CGAA President’s Award at CG Helo Pilot #2 and CG Surfman #68. Products, and two others. the banquet for his work on the History Regarding Harvey and Irma, CAPT of CG Aviation CD and the update of the Kimball said he felt like a proud father Ptero website, could not attend due to watching what CG aviation was doing. Irma. Jim announced that the minutes of There were 68 people on watch at last year’s Business meeting will be sent CGHQ taking 1,000 911 calls per hour out via an AlPtero. from people in distress in the Houston A compelling presentation on the state area. Google maps were used and info of CG Aviation and the CG response to sent to the iPads in CG helos to guide them to the scenes of distress. Ptero 8 Pterogram - Fall 2017 CDR Jim Spitler, Aviator 3486, the new Regarding the 2018 Roost, Ptero Mark and a Cape May Victorian District Trol- ator 1352, for carrying him around the Benjamin, Aviator 1665, reported that it ley Tour. golf course. He said that the awards are would be at Great Wolf Lodge in Traverse the reason for the Roost. He recog- City from 6-9 September. The Roost Com- nized Roost co-chairs Goodreau and mittee is a cadre of the ‘Breakfast Club’ Pettitt who introduced their attending that meets twice monthly. Preparations are committee members. He then asked all already underway. There should be no CG aviators present to stand so the conflicting hurricanes. oldest aviator attending could be rec- Ptero Jay Crouthers, Aviator 1360 & ognized. The last man standing was CGAA Annual Gatherings VP, spoke on Ptero Frank ‘Pop’ Shelley, Aviator the possibility of conducting Roosts every 633, 92 years young. other year. He said the issue is the deserv- The annual awards were then pre- edly suitable recognition of annual award- TraCen Cape May Visitors. sented. ees. It’s difficult to find host volunteers Bob Powers Photo. The CGAA 2017 Victor Roulund Res- and an appropriately sized venue. He pre- cue Swimmer Meritorious Achieve- fers to keep it annual. Ptero Frank Cole, ment Award was presented to Pteros Av. 1417, suggested recognizing awardees After the cocktail hour, the Roost ban- ASTCM (Ret.) Scott Dyer, RS-8, at their home units among their peers. Jay quet ensued. MC Ptero Jeff Pettitt, Avia- ASTCM John F. Hall, RS-375, USCG, said he would look at that but he doesn’t tor 2188, told a few ‘Jersey’ jokes and and AST1(Ret.) Richard “Rick” want to slight people in the off years. encouraged us to break into applause McElrath, RS-17 Ptero Crouthers also reviewed the status whenever he was talk- of the Ptero Store. He said the 2016 Cen- ing. CG Auxiliarist tennial Year sales were very successful. He COL Thomas Brouil- and Lorie Stout are trying to develop prod- lard, USA (Ret.) pre- ucts that people want. They take credit sented an eloquent Invo- cards. He said we should ‘buy a lot.’ cation: Regarding the change in CGAA leader- ‘For the dreams of ship, Prez Van Sice said that most of the youth that drew us to the Ptero Prez Van Sice (L), AST1 McElrath, officers have been doing this for a long skies, Dear Lord, we are ASTCM Hall, ASTCM Dyer, & Ptero RDML Mel time and we need talented young volun- truly grateful and, with Bouboulis, Av. 2915. Bob Powers photo. teers to create turnover and help the organ- hearts full and dreaming ization to thrive. He said a Roost with a still, we invite Your Business Meeting and an Awards Ceremo- presence among us tonight. With Your Master Chief Dyer was cited for his ny are essential every year. He loves the help we achieved our heart’s desire – As three decades of service to the CG’s CGAA. Going to awards every other year Coast Guard aviators, Helicopter Rescue Swimmer program. would be a travesty. The CGAA has two we defended the Homeland, protected the After being one of the first ten CG unique awards: the Roulund Rescue Swim- environment, and saved lives. Tonight we graduates of the Navy’s rescue swim- mer awards and the Hall of Honor awards. come together to remember and celebrate mer school, MC Dyer was one of the They need to continue. those many times when you blessed us key instructors who trained and pre- Ptero VADM John Currier, Aviator with more courage than caution and more pared the first CG helo rescue swim- 1877, spoke about the new CGAA project. determined commitment than common mers at 24 field Air Stations. He made He is on the board of the National Naval sense. lasting contributions to the develop- Aviation Museum in Pensacola and next We come together, as well, to remember ment of Direct Deployment proce- year is the 75th anniversary of naval heli- our comrades, untimely dead; asking dures, the folding Rescue Basket to copter pilots. The CGAA will be funding Your blessing on all who flew and still meet aircraft cabin size restrictions, the the $50K restoration of an HH-3F present- fly in common cause with us. Let us Tri-Laminate Dry Suit, the develop- ly sitting outside the museum. Sikorsky is share friendship, revel in past glories, and ment of CG HH-60 RS procedures, providing $2.5K toward the restoration. marvel at our incredible luck. and the development and implementa- The goal is to move the H-3 inside after it Let us honor those who have succeeded tion of Ice Rescue Procedures. As the is restored. VADM Currier and Ptero Past us and support them as they carry on with only Enlisted Branch Chief at the CG’s Prez George Krietemeyer, Aviator 913, the mission in an increasingly uncertain Aviation Training Center in Mobile, nominated CG CAPT Carl VonPaulsen to world. As you blessed us in our time; we MC Dyer led the Helo RS Standardiza- the Naval Aviation Hall of Fame. pray Your continued blessing on them.’ tion Team, ensuring operational proce- Ptero Stoppe said there will be a dues AirSta CO ‘Jackie’ Gleason welcomed dures were enforced fleet-wide. He increase of $5/year for active duty and us all and thanked Roost co-chairs Good- also served as the School Chief for the retired members starting on 1 January. Life reau and Pettit for being the ‘sled dogs’ Advanced Rescue Swimmer School in membership will also increase from $250 for this event. MC Pettitt had all Brook- Astoria, OR. While stationed at CGHQ to $275. Dues are deductible. lyn and Cape May veterans stand up to as the Helo RS Program Mgr., MC Ptero Gary Gamble, Aviator 1826, spoke be recognized. CAPT Joe Kimball told us Dyer was temporarily detailed to ATC of the magnificent update of the CGAA that this would be his last Roost as the Mobile to supervise & manage all as- website by Ptero ‘Bear’ Moseley, Aviator Chief of CG Aviation Forces. He thanked pects of the Helo RS response during 743, and Margaret Jordan that took one the CGAA, especially for preserving the Hurricane Katrina. MC Dyer also con- year to complete. CG Aviation Centennial, and said he’s tributed to the RS program as the Ptero Bob Powers, Aviator 1458, was humbled by what they do. CG’s Aviation Life Support Equip- commended for his outstanding perfor- MC Pettitt recognized the CGAA spon- ment Program manager mance as Roost photographer over the past sors attending the banquet and introduced Master Chief Hall was cited for his five years. attending Ancient Al’s and Flag Officers. work as the Aviation Survival Techni- The meeting adjourned at 0950. Prez Van Sice expressed his affection cian (AST) Branch Chief at Aviation Thursday’s excursion was a trip to for the Roost experience and thanked TRACEN Cape May, the Physick Estate, Pteros Tardiff and Don Winchester, Avi- Fall 2017 - Pterogram 9 Technical Training Center (ATTC) Eliza- ing Center’s (ATTC) Rescue Swimmer HE PLAYED A KEY ROLE IN THE beth City. MC Hall has made tremendous School. ALCS MEDIUM RANGE RECOV- training program innovations and recom- The CAPT Marion ‘Gus’ Shrode ERY (MRR) PRODUCT LINE AND mendations, which have resulted in an ex- Flight Safety Award was presented to THE ENTIRE MH-60 FLEET. HE pansion of the curriculum to include an the Flight Safety Department of AirSta WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN THE FI- AST preparation course for those with or- Clearwater: LCDR Heather Majeska, NAL ASSEMBLY, DOCUMENTA- ders to AST “A” School, a formalized and Av. 3996, Ptero LCDR Dave McCarthy, TION REVIEW, AND FUNCTIONAL fully supported student re-phase program Av. 4292, LT Dustin Burton, Av. CHECK FLIGHT SUPPORT FOR for ASTs in training with minor injuries, 4269A, Ptero LT David Wright, Av. NINE H-60T HELICOPTERS. HE formalization of the Operational Fitness 4188, LTJG Carter Schlank, Av. 4616, LED HIS TEAM THROUGH FOUR Trainer “C” School for field rescue swim- and MST1 Lizette Gutierrez. They creat- SIMULTANEOUS AIRCRAFT mers, and vast improvements to the galley ed a Facility Emergency Action Plan that MAINTENANCE EVOLUTIONS. HIS service at Base Elizabeth City to support provided all members of the unit with EXCEPTIONAL MAINTENANCE the nutritional requirements of AST train- initial actions and steps during base EFFORTS LED TO THE EARLY ing. emergencies; implemented innovative COMPLETION OF TWO NAVY H-60 AST1 McElrath was cited for his almost risk management solutions to identify, CONVERSION AIRCRAFT FOR THE 20 years in the CG as an Aviation Surviv- assess, and control hazards; improved TRANSITION FROM H-65 TO H-60T alman (ASM)/Aviation Survival Techni- effectiveness of unit feedback to advance HELICOPTERS AT AIRSTA TRAV- cian (AST). One of the first 20 CG Helo air station assurance activities; and en- ERSE CITY. DISTINGUISHING Rescue Swimmers, PO McElrath was a hanced the safety culture of the unit HIMSELF AS MRR ENGINEER- graduate of the CG’s Advanced RS School through tireless promotion and training. ING’S TECHNICAL EXPERT, HE and was an exceptional RS at two Air Sta- They developed a robust CO's Aviation ASSUMED THE ROLE AS THE MH- tions. His more important contributions to Safety Policy Statement plus they reor- 60 FLEET’S STRUCTURAL TECH- the CG’s Helo RS Program came after his ganized and rewrote the unit's Mishap NICAL SERVICES AND CORRO- CG Service. Serving first as a Field Termi- Response Plan (MRP) which optimized SION REPRESENTATIVE. HE EN- nal Operator at AIRSTA Sitka, PO communication, improved chain of com- HANCED PROCESSES USED ON McElrath maintained the AIRSTA’s air- mand access to critical post-mishap in- THE PRODUCT LINE AND IM- craft maintenance pubs on his own in- formation and codified best practices to PROVED MAINTENANCE PROCE- stalled intranet to circumvent numerous ensure the preservation of perishable DURES FOR THE H-60 FLEET. Internet outages, allowing all types of air- evidence. As a result of their efforts, this The CDR Elmer Stone Fixed Wing craft maintenance to continue. Moving to product has been recognized by COMDT Rescue Award was presented to: CDR the CG’s Air Logistics Center in Elizabeth (CG-1131) as a best-practice and has Wesley Hester, Av. 3595, LCDR Josh- City, he is the Center’s Aviation Life Sup- become a template for all future MRPs. ua O’Brien, Av. 3501, AMT2 Julio port Equipment Specialist, where he has Finally, they enhanced the Operational Guillermo, and AMT3 Thomas Carter supported the CG’s Helo RS Program ei- Risk Management (ORM) brief to in- from AirSta Cape Cod in recognition of ther directly, or indirectly. His accomplish- clude the evaluation of mission gain, not their heroic efforts on 1 December 2016 ments include: revised the COMDT In- simply evaluating risk to the crew. This transporting a critically ill newborn struction – Aviation Life Support Manual, let aircrews better assess the mission from Martha’s Vineyard to in created & illustrated an Aviation Life Sup- while balancing crew safety and mission HC-144 CGNR 2317 as a severe winter port Process Guide, revised & published execution. storm passed through the region. The the Shallow Water Egress Training Pro- infant was delivered to advanced medi- cess Guide used for Shallow Water cal care with little isolette oxygen re- Egress Training (SWET), created or maining. revised all Aviation Life Support Equip- ment Maintenance Procedure Cards (MPCs), manages the CG’s Aviation Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) Pro- gram (1,800+ PLBs at 25 aviation Ptero Prez Van Sice, LCDR McCarthy units), cradle to grave discovery, pro- Prez Van Sice, CAPT Kimball, Cape curement, testing & evaluation, & im- (the only awardee present), Dee plementation of the MH-60T auxiliary McCarthy, & RDML Bouboulis. Cod CO Ptero CAPT Tim Tobias, Av. hoisting system, ensuring mission suc- Bob Powers photo. 3027A, (accepting on behalf of his cess, improved safety, & triple risk miti- crew), & RDML Bouboulis. gation during all hoisting evolutions. The Chief Oliver Berry Aviation Bob Powers photo. Their names will also be inscribed on the Maintenance Award was presented to Victor Roulund Award plaque displayed at AMT1 John Levi T. Berg of the Avia- The CAPT Frank Erickson Rotary Elizabeth City’s, Aviation Technical Train- tion Logistics Center. Wing Rescue Award was presented to:

Ptero Prez Van Sice, CAPT Tom MacDonald, Ptero Prez Van Sice, CAPT Kimball, LT Jones, AMT1 Berg, Enlisted Ancient Al Harris, AMT1 Caristo, AST3 Morris, LT Wiest, & RDML Bouboulis. Bob Powers photo. & RDML Bouboulis. Bob Powers photo.

10 Pterogram - Fall 2017 LT Zachary Wiest, Av. 4290, LT Wes- The presentation of the CGAA now aren’t used to anything else. We ley Jones, Av. 4495, AMT1 Jason ‘President’s Award’ to Ptero John ‘Bear’ were ready; we already had axes. We Caristo, and AST3 Chad Morris from Moseley, Av. 743, was deferred until the knew how to triage and make life or Sector/AirSta North Bend in recogni- next Roost since Hurricane Irma prevented death decisions. The use of technology tion of their heroic efforts on 14 Febru- Bear’s attendance at this year’s Roost. was incredible. He thanked those who re ary 2017, responding to two people Our current Ancient Albatross, VADM -organized ALC to allow CG aircraft to trapped inside a waterline cave in 30 kt Charles Ray, Av. 2311, then addressed the stay ready. The members of the CGAA turbulent winds and eight foot crashing audience. He said we’re all ‘distinguished laid all of this groundwork. He said he waves near Yachats, Oregon in MH-65 guests.’ He thanked the Roost committee, could talk all night about the CG-wide CGNR 6559. and the CGAA for working on increasing team effort, e.g., AtoN people and logis- membership and for all that we’ve accom- tics support. The HC-144 overhead plished. He said that we’re the people that Command & Control and the HC-130 set the conditions for what the CG did in hauling were superb; it showed our agil- responding to the hurricanes in the last three ity! The Government teamwork was also weeks. Over 11K lives were saved. What the incredible. He thanked all of us for our CG did in the last three weeks was miracu- support of our legacy. lous! The courage and ingenuity of the air- The Benediction (Adapted from The crews was based on the last four decades of Flyer’s Prayer by Patrick Phillips) was CG aviation leadership, e.g., standardization beautifully presented by Rev Brouillard: to combine flight crews, the ACMS program ‘When this life I’m in is done, AST3 Morris with that lifted us out of scheduled maintenance And at the gates I stand, the two jubilant (no other service does that), the Rescue I’ll not be asked how much I knew, survivors. Swimmer Program; people flying in the CG [See ROOST RE-CAP on P. 18] Air Station Cape Cod holds Air Medal On Oct. 8, 2016, a Cape ceremony for heroic, lifesaving efforts Cod MH-60 By D1 Public Affairs Office launched to res- cue a 28-year- Air Station Cape Cod AST2 Mario old male climber who fell from a Estevane received the Air Medal on 19 50-foot cliff. June for his heroic actions in 2016 on a When the aircrew arrived on 1,000-foot cliff face in Acadia National scene, Estevane was hoisted down Park, Bar Harbor, . to discuss the rescue plan with the leader of the ranger team on scene. Estevane radioed the MH-60 to deliver the rescue litter to AST2 Estevane is presented the Air Medal by the face of the cliff. He then RADM Steven Poulin, Commander, 1st CG District employed a non-standard res- and Representative William Keating (D-MA-9). cue technique, free climbing (CG photos by PO3 Andrew Barresi) across the cliff face, while maneuvering the 45-pound litter over Also recognized were: Pilot CDR large boulders, down cliff ledges, and Steven F. Jensen, Aviator 3622B, and around thick brush. He innovatively flight mechanic AT3 Daniel J. Cote, used rappelling equipment and ropes who each received CG Commendation provided by the ground team to lower Medals. Co-pilot LT Michelle A. Sim- Hoist Location the litter down 50-feet to a small ledge, mons, Aviator 4607, was presented the where the helicopter crew could safely CG Achievement Medal. complete the hoist. Es- tevane then rappelled himself down to the ledge, where he met the ranger rescue team. While cling- ing only to scrub brush in high winds and driving rain 700-feet MH-60 crewmembers AST2 Estavane (L), CDR Jensen, AET3 Patient in litter above the val- Cote, & LT Simmons at the awards ceremony. being raised up ley floor, he cliff by rescue helped transfer the patient into the litter, team. prepare him for the night time hoist, and once inside the helicopter, remained at his side through the flight. Fall 2017 - Pterogram 11 Coast Guard Flight Training During the Past 100 Years Over 4,700 Coast Guard officers and enlisted per- By Ptero Past Prez George Krietemeyer, Aviator 913 sonnel have received Primary and Advanced Flight Training at U S Navy Training facilities in Florida and Texas. Every one of them reported to NAS Pensacola, FL. to start their journey in the “Cradle of Naval Aviation.” Those who com- pleted their journey were rewarded for their efforts when their wings of gold were pinned on by their wife/husband, parent, or significant other. Every one of them who joins the Naval Aviation community wears their wings with pride and honor. Those of us who trained during pre-historic times in the 20th century fondly remember aircraft like the T-34 Mentors at Saufley Field , the T-28 Trojans at Whiting Field and the S-2F Trackers at NAS Corpus Christi TX. Many of us lost our hearing sitting behind or alongside piston driven reciprocating engines operating at 2,500 RPM or more. Pressuriza- tion and air-conditioning was unheard of and the closest thing to a simulator was a little blue box called a LINK trainer. For the first 45 years or so, all pilots were initially trained as fixed wing only pilots. Around 1960, some pilots were assigned to helicop- ter school at Ellyson Field to fly HTL-1 and H-34 Chickasaw helicopters and reported to their units as “helicopter – only” pilots. All of that has changed in the Twenty-first century. Turbine engines rule the roost, cockpits are air-conditioned and pressurized and sim- ulators have replaced the Link trainers and become an important part of the training process. Saufley and Ellyson Fields are closed and most flight training now takes place at NAS Whiting Field in Milton, FL. The charts below compare past and present training and give a capsule view of the changes which have taken place over the past 100 years while training with the Navy. POST GRADUATE FLIGHT TRAINING During the first fifty years of the 20th Century, the CG relied on each Air Station developing their own training for the different aircraft flown at the unit. This worked reasonably well because aircraft were not standardized and many pilots flew three or four different aircraft types depending on what the unit had assigned. Nugget (new) pilots had to carry a small notebook to remember how each pilot liked to fly his aircraft. It was not uncommon for a senior pilot to tell a new co-pilot to just talk on the radio and not to touch the flight controls. In the early 60’s, the CG began to realize the importance of standardized pilot and aircrew training. After the acquisition of the turbine- powered HH-52A helo in 1963, the Basic Operational Training Unit (BOTU) was established at CGAS Savannah, located on Hunter Army Airfield. In 1966, the Coast Guard looked to expand standardized pilot training to its other airframes-including the HU-16 amphibious seaplane and the new HH-3F helicopter. With no room to grow the BOTU, the Coast Guard took over an abandoned Air National Guard facility on board Bates Field in Mobile, AL. The Coast Guard Air Station Mobile, AL (later named Aviation Training Center) was commissioned on 17 December 1966 and has been the “heart” of all post -graduate flight training since then. 100 YEARS OF COAST GUARD AVIATION TRAINING PRE-HISTORIC ANCIENT MODERN FLEDGLING (Notable Aviators of Their Era) 1916-1941 1941-1966 1966-1991 1991-2016 E. Stone D. Thompson R. Herr TBD F. Erickson H. Thorsen C. Ray TBD

TRAINING AIRCRAFT & DEVICES FLOWN Curtiss MF Boats SNB T-34 B/C Cessna 172 Curtiss N-9 SNJ T-28 T-6 B NY-2 PBM S-2F T-44 02-U T-34 B T-44 TH-57 T-4M T-28 H-13 SNJ N2-S S-2F H-34 F4-B UH-1D TH-57 LINK SIMULATORS FW - 100% FW -100% FW-60% FW-40% RW-40% RW-60% COCKPIT TIME A/C-200 HRS A/C-200+ A/C-220+ A/C-220+ SIM-0 HRS LINK-10 HRS SIM-50+ SIM-80+ H-34 FLIGHT TRAINING 20TH CENTURY 21ST CENTURY PREFLIGHT AVIATION PREFLIGHT INDOC. IFS (Introductory Flight Screening: Cessna 172s ~ 20 hours) CLASSROOM (10 WKS) CLASSROOM (6 WKS) SWIMMING/SURVIVAL SWIMMING/SURVIVAL OBSTACLE COURSE DUNKER PRIMARY SAUFLEY-T-34 WHITING – T – 6B ADVANCED WHITING – T -28 WHITING – T-6B OR TH-57 MULTI-ENGINE CORPUS CHRISTI - S-2F CORPUS CHRISTI – T – 44 0— 10 CG FLIGHT INSTRUCTORS 30— 40 16—18 MONTHS LENGTH OF TRAINING 20 –22 MONTHS SERVICE OBLIGATION 4.5 YEARS 8 YEARS

12 Pterogram - Fall 2017 Ptero Past Prez Participates Ancient Al #25 Letter to Pteros in CGC Oliver Berry aircrews for heroic actions performed in the Commissioning Ceremony past year. These two "book end" events are a testimony to the courage and professional- I was requested by the CO of ism of the people that are called to serve as USCGC Oliver W. Berry (WPB-1124) Coast Guard aviators. From the earliest days to present the ‘long glass’ to the crew of our Service, where CDR Graham pio- on the day of their commissioning, Oc- neered rotary wing rescue procedures, tober 31, 2017. I was apparently accord- demonstrated incredible ingenuity and cour- ed this honor because I conducted much age from Gander Newfoundland to the Out- of the original research to name er Banks, to the modern day crews who con- CGAA’s annual Maintenance Award tinue to find ways to press their aircraft and after Chief Berry. What a coincidence themselves to the limits; all so that others that I live here in Honolulu part time! It may live. In the span of a single human life- was a distinct pleasure to welcome LT Greetings fellow Pteros: time, we have gone from wooden rotor Ken Franklin and his crew to Honolulu! On 26 October, I had the honor of blades to glass cockpits. What has not Ptero Mont Smith, Aviator 1520 joining the Coast Guard contingent changed is the dedication of our aircrews that paid our respects as CDR Stew and maintainers who daily demonstrate self- Graham, Coast Guard Helicopter less service and dedication to duty. May Pilot #2, was interred at Arlington God rest CDR Stew Graham and may God National Cemetery. In September, I continue to bless our Coast had the opportunity to join fellow Guard aircrews. Pteros at our Roost in Atlantic City. Semper Paratus! While there, we honored really im- VADM Charlie Ray pressive fixed wing and rotary wing Aviator 2311

From Dolphins to Jayhawks: Air Station Traverse City Transitions from the MH-65 to the MH-60 [Story and photos reprinted with permission from the July-August 2017 issue of ‘Aviation Photojournal’]

ity, but also the MH -65 flight crews who had called Traverse City their home for many years. It was a bit- tersweet occasion. The Dolphins and their crews leave behind an impres- sive record of ser- vice to the Great Lakes region. Since first being deployed to Search and Rescue. The Jayhawk has the region in 1995, the longer range, more carrying capacity, MH-65s amassed over (up to 15 passengers in an emergency), 63,000 hours of flight and longer loiter/hover time over a time, responded to search area. In addition, the Jayhawks over 4,600 distress are more adept at operating over a wider calls, and saved 208 array of weather conditions. Its anti-ice lives. This record is systems enable it to operate during the even more impressive harsh and bitterly cold Great Lakes win- given the limited size ters. and range of the Dol- MH-60 crews spent several months phin and its limita- familiarizing themselves with their new tions in adverse AOR, and were ready to assume the weather. mission long before the last Traverse The winds of change hovered over The introduction of the ’Jayhawk’ is a City Dolphin departed the ramp for the CG Air Station Traverse City. The ’game changer’ for Air Station Traverse last time. We wish our friends in the summer of 2017 marked the end of an City. The air station’s Area of Responsibil- Dolphin community well in their next era for the air station as they bid fare- ity (AOR) is vast and the winter weather can assignments. We know they have left well to their venerable MH-65 Dol- be extremely challenging. Furthermore, the Great Lakes in very capable hands. phins and completed a transition to summer months see waterways clogged with The CO of AirSta Traverse City is the versatile MH-60T Sikorsky thousands of boaters on any given day. The Ptero CDR Nate Coulter, Aviator 3406. ‘Jayhawk.’ The change not only saw MH-60 will enable CGAS Traverse City to the departure of the sleek aircraft, be more versatile in their responses to a vari- from the station’s area of responsibil- ety of missions including, but not limited to, Fall 2017 - Pterogram 13 The Duck Memorial: many meaningful moments during the trip that it was difficult for both Mor- Remembering WWII gan and Richardson to draw together Heroes By Shelley Kimball the words to express their gratitude. “I wish I was a poet who could fit these They were bound by grief, by remem- things in because it was really some- brance, by honor. They were bound by a thing,” he said. shared calling to commemorate the loss The ceremony brought some closure of a Coast Guard flight crew during to his family’s loss of Bottoms, whom World War II near Koge Bay, Green- Richardson described as the love of his land, almost 75 years ago. mother’s life. “I was thinking of my Members of the Coast Guard, volun- mother,” he said, his voice breaking teers, and surviving family members with emotion. “She should have been attended a memorial ceremony in there.” Greenland in August to commemorate Kevin Wilson, a retired CG CDR the lives of LT John Pritchard, RM1 Jim Salazar (L), announces ‘Arctic Hotpoint and former aviator, can relate to some Benjamin Bottoms, and U.S. Army Air Solutions’ memorial to the lost crew as Nancy of Richardson’s feelings. Wilson’s Corps Cpl. Loren Howarth. A plaque Pritchard Morgan and her son John Morgan father was shot down in a B-17, and he was permanently installed outside the look on. Photo courtesy of Ptero spent 22 months as a prisoner of war. Kulusuk Airport. CAPT Joe Kimball. It makes a project like this one that “That experience was so memorable, much more important. Wilson got in- so touching, so beautifully done,” said at it and thought, we could help. We should volved before he retired from the CG, Nancy Pritchard Morgan. “It was really do the right thing,” Salazar said. “We are all working on the subcontracts with the so special and meant so much.” Morgan, Americans, and we feel deeply about this.” teams who were searching for the 94, is Pritchard’s sister. Her brother’s Although the JF-2 Duck has not yet been Duck. He stayed involved, and he plane crashed when she was 19. It was retrieved, Salazar and Arctic Hot Point Solu- helped organize the logistics and travel such a deep loss that she has spent these tions decided to fund a memorial. “We al- arrangements for the ceremony. The seven decades encouraging continued ways knew if we were not able to repatriate participants, including Wilson, stayed searches for the wreckage. She traveled those right away, at least we can warm the in Iceland and traveled to Greenland to Greenland with her son, John Mor- hearts of the families,” Salazar said. for the event. gan, who is her brother’s namesake. But it was easier to come up with the idea The location of the memorial outside Morgan said the memorial is a symbol than to carry it out in a location as remote as the Kulusuk Airport, though it is about of the unwillingness to forget service Kulusuk, where even making a phone call 150 miles from the crash site, is a re- members who have been lost. “It’s im- can be difficult. Volunteers came to help minder to those who live or travel portant because they are still trying to with the ceremony – a bagpiper and a singer there of the often overlooked history of find my brother and his radioman, and flew in. Members of the CG flew in to escort Greenland’s place in World War II, he that poor corporal that was with him the families and to attend the ceremony. With said. when they crashed,” Morgan said. “It’s so many logistics so far away, there were It also reminds those who are cur- just amazing. It does my heart good. I challenges both big and small. rently serving that they will be remem- am so proud of the Coast Guard.” A small challenge: They had to figure out if bered. “I think it sets an example for Pritchard, a pilot, and Bottoms, a radi- there were lemons in Greenland to be placed the ones who are doing hurricane relief oman, volunteered to fly out to rescue on the Missing Man table at the ceremony. and standing duty that they won’t be survivors of an Army Air Corps B-17 Salazar said they looked into trying to mail a forgotten if they are lost,” Wilson said. that had crashed on an icecap. They lemon, or even a fake lemon. (They did get a As for the future of the lost Duck, the found the crash and landed their Grum- lemon for the table.) Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agen- man J2F-4 “Duck” on the ice. They A big challenge: the memorial plaque got cy is working with universities to brought two of the survivors back to the lost. The plaque itself weighed more than study localized glacier movement, Coast Guard Cutter Northland. As night 100 pounds. They wanted to pick it up from Wilson said. The active glacier in the fell, they knew their work was not done. the manufacturer and bring it into Greenland area in which the plane was lost can Feeling compelled to complete the res- themselves, but the manufacturer wouldn’t move the location of the site, especial- cue, Pritchard and Bottoms went back to allow it. So it was mailed. And lost. “There ly over 75 years. If the glacier moved the site the next morning. They were was a good week of sleepless nights,” Sala- the site out to deeper water, it will be able to extract Howarth, but the weather zar said. Thirteen to be exact. For 13 days, nearly impossible to retrieve it. If the on the return got even worse. The three the plaque traveled to Germany, then Den- glacier moved it toward the rocks be- never returned. mark, then the western side of Greenland. It tween the glacier and open water, it In the intervening years, out to the ice made it four days before the ceremony. But might be possible to find it. “They are to find the missing men, but the location all of that was worth it for a permanent me- coalescing all of that research to try to had never been officially memorialized. morial, Salazar said. “It was important to the decide where that thing ended up,” Jim Salazar, of Arctic Hotpoint Solu- families, as a place where they can lay their Wilson said. tions, a nonprofit that works to repatri- remembrance,” Salazar said. Placing the memorial and honoring ate lost crews like the JF-2 Duck, got The experience couldn’t have been better Pritchard, Bottoms, and Howarth in involved in assisting the Coast Guard in for Ed Richardson, 83, Benjamin Bottoms’ Kulusuk means that the families’ loss- its search because it was in the same stepson. He said he is overwhelmed with es will not be forgotten. “What it area looking for another aircraft. Be- gratitude for everyone who participated in doesn’t mean?” Wilson said. “What it cause the group understood the process making it possible to memorialize his stepfa- doesn’t mean is that the effort to bring and the terrain, it volunteered to help. ther, whose loss was a great blow to their them home is over with.” “We got to the point where we looked family. There were so many emotions swirling, so 14 Pterogram - Fall 2017 Air Station Sitka, Alaska optimize a crew’s ability to navigate to a why I wanted to come to Air Station By LT Jason Maddux, Aviator 4444 position, locate and extract a survivor. In Sitka; it’s a once in a lifetime oppor- low visibility scenarios a combination of tunity which combines my passions for night vision goggles (NVGs) if at night, aviation and healthcare and I feel radar, moving map, electro-optical infrared lucky to be here.” camera and GPS routes provide a crew with The CG, along with National Ocean- ographic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) and National Marine Fisher- ies Service (NMFS) shares in the re- sponsibility to execute enforcement of fishery management plans to manage fish stocks within our country’s Exclu- sive Economic Zone. The State of Alaska has the most substantial fishery in the United States, representing 40 percent of the annual U.S. yield. If Alaska were a sovereign nation, it would rank 10th worldwide in the har- vest of fish. More than five billion additional situational awareness. Once on- pounds of fish, worth $1.4 billion are Coast Guard Air Station Sitka’s area scene, survivor extraction can be completed caught annually by the state's industry. of responsibility (AOR) encompasses using any combination of Rescue Swimmer, The Alaska fishery operates year approximately 180,000 square miles of basket or litter. AST2 Ben Dent says this round with 17,000 fishing vessels water and land stretching across South- about Air Station Sitka SAR, “I’ve served in working in some of the most severe east Alaska from Dixon Entrance to Icy northern California and the Great Lakes; this weather in the world. Air Station Sitka Bay, and from the Alaskan/Canadian is by far the most challenging and rewarding plays a major role within the 17th CG border to the central Gulf of Alaska. AOR I’ve experienced from inland to off- District of Alaska. Approximately 20 This includes 12,000 tidal miles of shore to anything and everything in be- percent of the unit’s allocated annual coastline characterized by rugged tween. The remoteness of the entire AOR flight time is dedicated to assisting coasts, mountainous terrain, severe adds additional risk to our crews as we are fisheries enforcement by locating con- weather, numerous remote villages, and typically the only show in town and if some- centrations of vessels in order to focus long distances between fuel caches and thing happens to the helicopter, we might be the efforts of surface assets who con- landing sites. Air Station Sitka’s operat- on our own for awhile.” duct vessel boarding’s and inspections. ing area is one of the most demanding What also makes Air Station Sitka unique In 2017, AirSta Sitka supported Sector flight environments for CG aircraft. is the use of Health Services Technicians Juneau to accomplish the highest num- AirSta Sitka’s primary mission is (HS’s) who are trained as Aviation Mission ber of boarding’s, 318 recorded over Search and Rescue (SAR) but the unit Specialists (AMS’s) which means they meet the last four years. Thanks to AirSta conducts other vital missions within the requirement to operate as a member of Sitka's sharp lookout and detailed que- Southeast Alaska: fisheries law enforce- the aircrew in addition to their medical re- rying of vessels, the CG's safety mis- ment, aids to navigation maintenance sponse responsibilities. These men and sion has averaged a 30% gain in locat- and other miscellaneous logistics mis- women provide a vital role for the many non ing potentially illegal activity in sions for the CG or other agencies. The -maritime medevacs and other SAR mis- Southeast Alaska. AirSta Sitka has MH-60T ‘Jayhawk’ has proven itself a sions the unit conducts. AMS’s are qualified also assisted two new Fast Response worthy aircraft in these roles through to administer advanced IV therapy, in- Cutters with daily area over flights by the harsh Alaskan flying environment. traosseous infusion, essential drugs for car- pinpointing Halibut and Sablefish fish- This multi-mission medium range heli- ing vessels that provided Cutters with copter can fly up to 300 miles offshore, fishing fleets’ bearing and course for hoist up to six additional people while interception. One sighting report in remaining on-scene for up to 45 minutes particular led to NOAA and the CG and return to base with an adequate fuel vetting 19 vessels in two days to create reserve. The Jayhawk can sling up to another 2017 record of the most board- 6,000 pounds of gear via a cargo hook ing per day completed by a cutter this installed on its belly. It has ice protec- year. tion systems which allow it to be oper- ated in certain icing conditions which are witnessed routinely in the winters and occasionally during the summer months. The MH-60T’s endurance, pay- load capability and rugged construction make it an ideal platform for the mis- diac issues, manual defibrillation and CPR. sion requirements of Air Station Sitka. They are Advanced Cardiac Life Support, The Air Station averages 130 SAR Pediatric Advanced Life Support and EMT2 cases a year, many completed in storm qualified as well. The challenging access to force winds, snow, low visibility, and advanced medical support in Southeast darkness. About half of the unit's SAR Alaska highlights the need for members cases involve conducting air ambulance with this skill set and is why AirSta Sitka is missions from small villages, logging the only CG Air Station that carries this camps, boats and cruise ships. The MH- program. HST3 Scott Helfrich, an AMS [See AirSta Sitka on P. 19] 60T has a suite of sensor systems which provider, said “this program is the reason Fall 2017 - Pterogram 15 (USAF rep A-10 guy), Bill Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Biggar(1975), Randy Blunk, Ptero Tom Beard, Aviator 1104, and Chuck Billadeau, Paul, Tom Thompson, Graphics Editor, Light- Klein, Tom Allard (1741). houses of America brings together the Not pictured: Mark Benja- talents and knowledge of dozens of pho- min (1665), Tom Haase tographers and lighthouse experts. It is (1948), Don Strother, Russ such a delight when the words, pictures Gilbert, Scott LaBarre (150 in full color), and design all come (Army rep UH-1) and Ron together in a package as engaging as this Meeker. book. From cover to cover, it’s a pleasure The group talked with and to hold and peruse—not just once, but sold Ptero hats, shirts, coins again and again—whenever it’s time for a and etc. to many of the retreat into the beauty and historic import thousands of attendees from of these charming towers. MAIL the local community. As a To paraphrase Captain Desh, there is result of their efforts, nearly just something extraordinarily special Mail Call! This issue’s mail is brought to you by $1K has been forward to about Lighthouses of America. It’s in- the Kaman K-225 ‘Mixmaster’ (1950), Charles Ptero HQ this year. formative, beautiful, inspiring, and just Kaman’s first helicopter, which utilized intermesh- Ptero Mark Benjamin, 1665 the right size to live permanently on my coffee table. Thanks to this book, I can ing rotors and Kaman’s patented servo-flap stability ‘Lighthouses of control. The Coast Guard bought one for $25K to escape into the romance and history of test and evaluate. On 11 May 1950, CG-239 went America’ “America’s castles” any time I pick it up. into the workshops at Elizabeth City after undergo- Reviewed by Megan ing 120 flying hours of testing and evaluation. After Edwards this, it was apparently “little used” except for pilot refresher training. CG-239 was transferred to the “There is just something Navy on 22 March 1954. extraordinarily special about lighthouses.” So writes Cap- AirSta Traverse City tain Robert Desh, US Coast Guard ‘Ramp Night’ Held (Retired) in the foreword of Lighthouses of America, a new book from Rizzoli New York. I could not agree with Captain Air Station Traverse City hosted its’ Desh more. Even people who have lived annual ramp night open house on Friday in land-locked locales their entire lives night, June 30th. This has become an and have never actually seen a lighthouse annual event held on the Friday night know they are enchanting. before the National Cherry Festival air Lighthouses of America, produced in show. This year’s show featured a SAR association with the United States Light- demo by Air Station Traverse City, the house Society, is the next best thing to a USAF Thunderbirds, the US Army’s tour of the real things. Not only do the Golden Knights, an Air Force A-10 as stunning photographs transport you in- Lighthouses of America by Tom Beard well as a Marine F-18 demo team and a stantly to the harbors, bluffs, cliffs, and in association with the United States demo by Canadian Forces. All air show dunes of America’s coastlines, the ac- Lighthouse Society, Hardcover / 176 pag- aircraft, military and civilian, are on companying narratives reveal the 300- es, 150 color photographs. Welcome static display during the annual “ramp year history of these iconic spires. It’s a Books (an imprint of Rizzoli New York) night”. trip through the past from a maritime per- August 2017. Look for " Author Tom Not to be left out, the local CGAA was spective. Beard" on Amazon. represented by from the left Fritz Barrett Solar Eclipse Gaper

16 Pterogram - Fall 2017 Ptero Executive Director Ben Stoppe, Book Review Tom – he did a wonderful job at the Aviator 1646, wiles away his time pe- Banquet and said he would be pleased rusing the Pterogram while awaiting the If you want to read a good book by a CG to do Traverse City if needed. total solar eclipse in Greenville, SC, in Aviator I recommend: CARIBBEANS Ptero Jay Crouthers, Aviator 1360 the path of 100% totality, on 8/21. KEEPER - A novel of Vendetta by LCDR Brian Boland, Aviator 3951. This fiction Actor Nicolas Cage Named Honor Wall Update novel will take you onto a CG cutter chas- Honorary Ptero ing drug runners at sea – and also into the Mike McCleary, graphics at ATTC, terrifying world of modern-day pirates and along with some help from the staff criminals. A young Coast Guard officer has helped me put together 32 frames to- trouble adjusting to some weak senior lead- day. These will be the first batch of ers and nothing he does will please his CO DFCs hung in the Elizabeth City bar- and XO. He finally gets discharged and he racks. That exhausted all the frame decides to “go rogue” and makes a few un- hardware. We are looking for a time sanctioned runs for the smugglers. next week to hang them. Brian tells an excellent story which is Ptero Joseph ‘Butch’ Flythe, Jr. P-2939 based on his years of experience chasing (8/10/17) drug runners and illegal immigrants. He also works in a few “senoritas” and other characters that will keep your interest throughout the complete novel. He showcases HITRON and C-130's along with Joint ATC Mobile received a heartfelt Task Force operations in guest visit from Nicolas Cage on 15 the Caribbean. [See relat- Septmber. He came to say thank you to ed story in Pterogram 2- the men, women, and families of ATC 17...Ed] Mobile for their hurricane response Ptero Past Prez George operations over the past few weeks!!! Krietemeyer, Aviator 913 He enjoyed his chance to sit in the cockpit of an MH-65. He is in the midst of filming a movie that includes the New Ptero Member Hails 2017 Roost Musings Coast Guard. Because of his dedication from France Just a quick update on the Ptero Store at to Coast Guard aviation, he was recent- the ACY Roost. Between credit card & cash ly named an Honorary Pterodactyl and Our newest foreign Ptero is Sylvain sales it appears we sold $4,443.25 worth of presented with a Ptero hat and patch! Dallant an aircraft commander in the product. French Securite Civiler from Obernai, I don’t have the exact amount from Mo- Passing of the former President of France. Welcome aboard! bile from last year but it was about the same Aerospatiale Helicopter Corpora- and it had nearly three times the attendance. tion (AHC) Claude (Jake) Benner Hurricane Irma’s Impact How can this be? You ask??? It’s all about availability. The Hospitality Suite in Mobile Jake was president of AHC, begin- 9/15, DeBary, FL: Just got back from wasn’t open nearly as much as in ACY and ning in 1974. He served in that capacity evacuation.. Damage, but not near the the store was closed, due to manning issues during the 1977-79 acquisition of 90 Keys. Will keep me busy repairing and part of the time the Suite was open. In HH-65 Dolphin helicopters, and for fixing stuff for some time. Will know ACY, however, the suite was open ALL the many years following in support of that this afternoon if I need roof shingles time except for the two evening functions. acquisition. He acknowledged the replaced. Bless palm trees – other stuff Best of all, it was fully manned with eager Coast Guard as a particularly important comes down. Palm trees generally do volunteers that, once trained, kept the store customer for the company and in the not. I have a number of limbs to cut open as long as the suite was open and sold eyes of the world away – none of which are in my living anything that wasn’t nailed down with great In 1982, Jake was named Chevalier room. All in all – not bad! enthusiasm. De L'orde National Du Merite by the Ptero ‘Bear’ Moseley, Aviator 743 In chatting with several people, both re- president of France, Francois Mitter- tired and active duty, I have some good and. He retired from the board of direc- 9/12 Dunedin, FL: We came through input for new items for the store that I hope tors of AHC in 1992. well. Just debris to clean up and no to work on as soon as Lorie and I recover Jake was a true gentleman, with a damage to my or my daughter's homes. from this mad rush. The store received high sense of integrity and accountabil- Still without electricity and that may be many compliments and I was very happy ity. He was extremely proud of his con- awhile before it is restored. Homes that Lorie was able to come for a little tributions to the Dolphin program, and closest to the water were subject to the while to get the flavor or our group. looked forward to hearing of the contin- worst winds. This was one of the best Roosts I’ve ever ual improvements to the aircraft and the 9/15 Just got power back this afternoon attended and my wife said the same. More laudable comments from the aviators after much clean up. Air conditioning is fun than most others – that may be because who were flying it. a wonderful thing! of the smaller number of attendees, we were Jake died on July 15th, 2017, in Gil- Ptero VP Mark D’Andrea, Av. 2359 more intimate with more time to chat. bert, AZ, just two months shy of his 9/12, Dunedin, FL Thanks, Dale & Jeff and all of the Hospital- 100th birthday. ity Suite volunteers and particularly, Father Ptero VADM Howie Thorsen, Av. 776 Fall 2017 - Pterogram 17 Aviation Technical Training Center Honor Graduates

The CG has three aviation ratings: Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT), Avionics Electrical Technician (AET), and Aviation Survival Technician (AST). The AMT and AET Schools are 26-weeks long and a typical class has 20 students. The AST School is 24-weeks long and a typical class consists of 20 students. In recognition of active duty aircrews, the Executive Board approved spe- cial recognition for ALL ATTC school graduates with a dues-free initial year of membership in the association, effective 1 July 2014. Here listed are mid-2017 Honor “grads” which we are proud to salute. In honor of the dedication and skill of every CG avia- tion air crew member, we congratulate the honor graduates. We view each of them as representing all their respective classmates. We welcome them all to the exciting and rewarding world of CG aviation and extend our heartiest wishes for many satisfying years of performance in their vital roles in the rich and continuing CG aviation history ahead. We recommend and hope ALL the graduates will continue as members and will help grow the association with new members. Congratulations and Welcome Aboard!! Honor Graduate Assignment Honor Graduate Assignment AET3 Clay A. Kirkwood San Francisco AMT3 William J. Wheeler ATC Mobile AMT3 Christopher G. Gutierrez Clearwater AMT3 Kaitlin N. Taylor Kodiak AST3 Brian T. Kamp Clearwater AMT3 Kevin B. Parsons Sacramento

Newly Designated Aviators

The following pilots have been designated as Coast Guard Aviators and have been provided with a first year dues-free membership in the Association. Welcome aboard, Pterodactyls!! We salute you and wish you safe flight. We envy the thrills, opportunities and satisfaction which are on and beyond your individual horizons. As you settle in at your initial and subse- quent assignments and carve out future CG aviation history, we hope you will maintain your membership and stay tuned to your rich heritage. As busy and focused as you are on many things, you are history-in-the-making, and you will want to preserve that history as well as that of those before and around you today. Your modest annual dues will help to keep you informed and make possible active duty awards, memorials and CG aviation history-preserving-projects. Congratulations and Welcome Aboard!!!

CG Aviator Nr. Assignment CG Aviator Nr. Assignment 4707 Justin H,. Pacheco Clearwater 4708 Ian J. Erickson Savannah 4709 Shea S. Smith San Diego 4710 Kevin J. Dove Miami 4711 Andrea A. Molina Cape Cod 4712 Michael A. Bosch Clearwater 4713 Patrick K. Buckley Savannah 4714 Nathaniel A. Cajigas Clearwater 4715 Timothy J. Early Port Angeles 4716 Jonathan P. Orthman Clearwater 4717 Brandon M. Decardenas Mobile 4718 Jonathan R. Resch Clearwater 4719 Alexander E. Waller IV Cape Cod 4720 Robert Mineo Savannah 4721 Adam T. Scholl San Francisco 4722 Lindsey R. Cockburn Elizabeth City 4723 Victoria A. Diaz Cape Cod 4724 Derek M. Kelley Barbers Point 4725 Derrick P. Rockey Astoria 4726 Matthew B. Hanks Houston 4727 Robert H. McConnel San Diego 4728 Alexander M. Mead Barbers Point 4729 Paul M. Kraft San Francisco 4730 Jonathan W. Kelly Barbers Point 4731 George A. Thomas Astoria 4732 Elliott A. Williams San Francisco 4733 Wesley C. Figaro San Francisco 4734 Timothy P. Lovins Miami

ROOST RE-CAP FROM 11 Or how high I held command?” Instead He’ll ask of rainbows sent On the stormy days I flew, And of that peace above the clouds, It was His gift, too. He’ll ask about the runway lights I’d seen so long ago, When I was lost and found my way; How? I still don’t know! How fast, how far, how high? So did Joan Johanson (L) He’ll not ask about these things, & Alma Powers. But had I taken just a moment to watch Bob Powers Photo. When moonbeams washed my wings? When all my goals at last are reached, When all the flying’s done, Please see the Ptero website, I’ll stand down with no regrets – AOPtero.org for many more great Bob For I have touched the sun. Powers Roost photos. So when I stand before the gates, And I can reach no higher, My prayer this day? - That His hand extends to welcome home a Flyer.’ After the banquet, Ptero Butch Flythe Frank Cole (L), Paul Milli- serenaded us in the hospitality suite. A wonderful picnic was held at the gan, Av. 1034, & Prez Jim Air Sta on Friday morning. Van Sice enjoyed the picnic. Bob Powers Photo. 18 Pterogram - Fall 2017 Dues may be tax deductible; CGAA is an IRS 501 (C)(3) non-profit organization, EIN: 33-0161887 CG Aviation Association Multi-mission Form Apply for or Renew Membership / Update Data  New Member  Renewal  Update Information (MOVING?? Please let us know.)

Name ______Rank/Rate______Please check all below that apply: Address:______ CG Active  CG Retired City:______State____Zip______ CG Reserve  Former CG(not ret)  CG Auxiliary  Other Supporter CHECK BOX(es) IF Spouse, Phones or Emails NOT to be listed in Directories ………………………………………. Spouse:______ TP Res. (____)_____-______  CG Aviator ( Data if known:) Email Res.______ TP Work (____) _____-______ Designation Nr:______Date: ______Email Work:______ TP Cell (____) _____-______ Helo Nr: ______Date: ______Sign me up for: ………………………………………..  Life Membership $250 (includes a Ptero Pin)  CG Aircrew  CG Flight Surgeon  Annual Membership $35 (Active Duty $20)  Exchange Pilot Service______Country_____ To activate your access to the members-only area on the web site, mail-in registrations CG dates served: must send an email to [email protected] and request access to the members- ______to ______only area. Be sure to include your full name and email address. Members who join/renew ………………………………………. online automatically have access to the members-only area.  Other:______For many years, the “Ptero $20 + UP Store” has operated out of Ben’s  Please send me how-to-help info! basement, making an annual ap- pearance at the Roost and filling the occasional mail order. To keep MAIL TO: up with demand, the Ptero Store The CG Aviation Association has been moved to an online spe- P.O. Box 940, cialty company located in Annapo- Troy, VA 22974 lis, MD. Stoutgear has been in op- $20 eration for years and has a long history with the Pteros. If you purchased a shirt at a Roost in the last 10 years, it was probably sup- plied by them. The memorabilia provided by Stoutgear Promotional Products donates the profit to the CGAA. From hats to shirts, embroidery and screen printing, quality products with CG insignia representing the “Pilots”, “Aircrew”, and “Rescue Swimmers”, can be purchased through the Stoutgear/Ptero web store. Stoutgear is pleased to provide such a service to those who have served. StoutGear is easily reached through the “Store” tab at either https:// aoptero.org/ or http://centennial-cgaviation.org/ and you can even pay by check if you don’t like using credit cards on the internet .

Oct 2017 Please make copies of this form and pass it on. Total Enclosed: $

AirSta Sitka FROM 15 stewards and life savers – since the first and Arctic exploration and national sov- In 1986, Aids to Navigation (ANT) day we became an Arctic nation. In ereignty. For a century and a half, the Team 17 was relocated from Ketchikan 1867, when the United States purchased CG has patrolled Alaskan waters. The to Sitka for logistical purposes. ANT the Alaskan Territory, it was a revenue CG is modernizing our fleet with new Sitka is responsible for 225 total aids cutter that carried the U.S. delegation planes, cutters and small boats so we can and five lighthouses throughout SE here for the transfer ceremony. Every continue to patrol these waters well into Alaska from the Dixon Entrance to Cape member of the CG family plays a vital the future. Just as the Revenue Cutter Spencer. 105 of those are Primary Aids part in the 150-year legacy of our exem- Service played such an important role of which half require helicopter support plary service to the Last Frontier. The following the purchase of Alaska 150 for regular and unscheduled mainte- men and women of the Revenue Cutter years ago, the CG will play a vital role nance due to the extreme remoteness of Service, Lighthouse Service, Bureau of in the CG’s ability to secure our Na- their locations. Members of ANT Sitka Marine Inspection and Navigation, and tion’s maritime domain in one of the have the unique opportunity to be Lifesaving Service paved the way for most strategic intersections of the global trained to be lowered via hoist to naviga- modern CG operations and their mis- maritime commons. tional aid locations which are otherwise sions live on through the actions of our inaccessible. personnel. For 150 years, the CG’s abil- This year marks a combination of the ity to protect American citizens and in- 150th anniversary of the CG’s presence terests in Alaskan and Arctic waters has in Alaska as well as AirSta Sitka’s 40th grown alongside Alaska’s ever- anniversary. The CG has been here – as increasing role in American commerce,

Fall 2017 - Pterogram 19 NON PROFIT ORG. The Ancient Order of The Pterodactyl US POSTAGE 12225 Cathedral Drive Woodbridge, VA 22192 PAID Woodbridge, VA PERMIT # 9

Return Service Requested

The “Racing Stripe”—Fifty years of Coast Guard Brand Identity . See story on P. 5. BREAKING NEWS: Ptero Past Prez George Krietemeyer, Av. 913, Named Mobile’s ’Veteran of the Year.’ See AlPtero email of 10/21/17 for story.

A memorial ceremony was held in Greenland in August to commemorate the lives of LT John Pritchard, RM1 Benja- min Bottoms, and Army Air Corps Cpl. Loren Howarth. Ed Richardson (L), stepson of RM1 Bottoms, Nancy Pritchard Morgan, sister of LT Pritchard, and Jim Salazar, who orga- nized the event, stand at the memorial site. Photo courtesy of John Morgan. [See Story on Pg. 14]

MAIL Pg. 16

Air Station Sitka Highlighted See story on Pg. 15 Powerpoint created by AirSta Traverse City AMTC Terry Walter. THAT’S NOT ALL !!