Friday, March 15, 2002 , Colo. Vol. 46 No.9

By 2nd Lt. Mike Andrews This Issue 21st Space Wing Public Affairs eterson Air Force Base is leading the Air News Force and the state of Colorado in reducing consumption of petro- leum Pand significantly reducing emis- sions. The base is implementing three alternative fuel options and purchasing or leasing GSA alternative fuel vehi- cles. Peterson is also one of the 39 WASP pilot talks about women’s aviation - Page 3 original stakeholders in the Colorado Clean Cities program, a U.S. Department of Energy program designed to promote cleaner air through the use of alternative fuel and Feature vehicles. “Air Force Space Command and the 21st Space Wing, in conjunction base using E-85, Peterson is also the United States’ energy self-suffi- with the Colorado Clean Cities cam- known for being the second Air Force ciency and security by decreasing our paign, is leading the way on the use of base and the first Colorado location to dependency on foreign oil and petrole- alternative fuel vehicles, which is the have bio-diesel fuel, a blend of diesel um. The United States imports about way of the future,” said Col. Kai fuels and vegetable oils,” said Master 60 percent of our oil every year.” Norwood, Air Force Space Command Sgt. Mark Trolio, HQ AFSPC Fuel Alternative fuels also make for Logistics Group commander. Operations. healthier environment by reducting Meet the Career Assistance On April 21, 2000, President “Peterson’s bio-diesel is made greenhouse gases and other pollutants Advisor - Page 8 Clinton signed Executive Order 13149 with 80 percent low-sulfur diesel in the atmosphere. into law which requires federal vehicle blended with 20 percent virgin, refined “These are a few of the reasons fleets to reduce petroleum consump- soybean or rapeseed oil. Commercial why the executive order is so impor- tion by 20 percent by the end of Fiscal bio-diesel may also use recycled cook- tant and the integrated item managers Sports Year 2005. ing grease,” said Huber. for all DoD petroleum products “Peterson is the This bio-diesel blend is called B- (Defense Energy Support Center) base, as well as the first location in 20. B-20 reduces petroleum use by 20 worked extended hours to acquire the Colorado, to have E-85, an ethanol- percent and reduces carbon monoxide vendor contracts to make all this hap- based alcohol mixed with traditional by 20 percent. Bio-diesel can be used pen,” said Trolio. gasoline,” said Master Sgt. Jim Huber, in any conventional diesel engine and For more information on alterna- 21st Space Wing fuels. “E-85 is 85 doesn’t require special storage. tive fuels, call Huber at 556-7728. For percent ethanol blended with 15 per- Congress announced in June fleet management or vehicle related cent gasoline. There are currently 24 2000 that bio-diesel was the first alter- questions, or training on of how to use vehicles using the E-85 fuel on native fuel to have completed the the pumps, call Tim Kincannon with Peterson today.” requirements of the 1990 Clean Air PMI Fleet Management at 556-4495. Denver Nuggets visit Peterson E-85 reduces greenhouse gas Act. - Page 10 emissions like carbon-monoxide, the “Bio-diesel was first received and main contributor to global warming, used at Peterson in October 2001. To by as much as 39 to 46 percent. In date, over 9,200 gallons in the 160 addition to gas emissions, it reduces vehicles have been used and there have Inside petroleum use by 85 percent and burns been no vehicle problems reported,” cleaner than traditional gasoline. This said Huber. News....3-5 reduces exhaust emissions and respira- The final alternative fuel option Air Force News....6 tory illnesses caused by poor air quali- is Compressed Natural Gas. Natural ty. gas is the cleanest burning alternative FYI....7 The change from using traditional fuel and emissions are much lower Feature....8 gasoline to E-85 was relatively simple. than traditional gasoline powered vehi- The existing gasoline tanks were emp- cles. Carbon-monoxide emissions are Tip of the Sword....9 tied, cleaned, and then refilled with E- reduced by 70 percent when using nat- Sports....10 85 fuel. The tanks had to be modified ural gas. to accept E-85. Natural gas powered vehicles A source of cleaner fuel is produce little or no evaporative emis- ethanol. One source of ethanol is corn. sions, the vapors that escape from the Pharmacy refill One bushel of corn can produce 2.5 pump nozzle during fueling. Currently gallons of ethanol. Studies also indi- 60 vehicles on base use compressed line cate that it also generates 24-35 per- natural gas. cent more energy than it takes to pro- The CNG pump has both 3,000 The 810th Medical duce the corn. So the corn offers more and 3,600 pounds per square inch dis- Operations Squadron has energy than it takes to produce it. The penser hoses, and is available to any- Photos by Tech. Sgt. Gino Mattorano a new refill telephone National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition one who has access to the installation Elisa Jarrett, Phoenix Management states that “Ethanol, which is non- and has a Natural Fuels Corporation Incorporated, fills up with com- number. The number is toxic, water soluble and biodegradable, credit card. pressed natural gas. The gas is one 333-DRUG is simply a better fuel for the world There are several reasons why of the three types of alternative around us.” alternative fuel technology is so impor- fuels Peterson Air Force Base is using. “In addition to being the first tant. According to Huber, “It enhances SPACE OBSERVER 2 Friday, March 15, 2002 Around the Wing 21st Space Wing GSU At a Glance

Photo by Scott H. Spitzer A sign of the times A noncommissioned officer from the 305th Medical Group, McGuire Air Force Base, Unit: 18th Space Surveillance Squadron N.J., uses a handmade sign to say goodbye to his fellow airmen before they deploy in Location: , Calif. support of Operation Enduring Freedom on March 11. Mission: The 18th Space Surveillance Squadron is responsible for command and control of three Ground–based Electro–Optical Deep Space Surveillance, or GEODSS, located at Detachment 1, Socorro, N.M.; Action Line Detachment 2, Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean limited to electronically filing only the federal Territories; and Detachment 3, Maui, Hawaii. The unit Taxing my mind and Colorado state returns. However, the VITA also provides command and control for the Moron Optical volunteers are authorized to provide state tax Space Surveillance System, or MOSS, a stand-alone sys- Q: Why was the VITA program changed forms for other states and can assist clients tem located at Detachment 4, Moron, Spain. to do Colorado State tax forms only and not with questions they may have in preparing Besides providing staffing support and quality assur- support out of state tax returns? them. ance management to a work force of more than 150 mili- The program was initially established to If you have further questions, please con- tary and contractors at the worldwide detachments, the assist our young airmen. Where are young air- tact Tech. Sgt. Debra Henry at 556-4403. unit began operating the Optical Command, Control and men suppose to go now to get help with their Submitting Action Lines Communications Facility, or OC3F, in February 2000. out of state tax returns? Thank you. The Action Line is your direct line to the The OC3F is the centralized node for the control of A: Thank you for your concern. We agree, commander. If you have any questions, com- the 18th SPSS optical detachments around the world. The the main focus of the Volunteer Income Tax ments or concerns please call or fax the Action GEODSS and MOSS sites play a vital role in tracking Assistance (VITA) program is to help our air- Line. some 2,000 objects in space, all of which are at least men. To submit a question or comment call 3,000 miles from the Earth's surface. As in the past, the base tax program is 556-7777 or fax your question to 556-7848. News Briefs ROAD CLOSURE - The north section for April 8-11 at the Broadmoor hotel. For more information or to join ing April 3, 11 a.m.-noon, at the of Kelly Street will be closed begin- Volunteers are needed for various the committee, call Bonnie Pavlik at Aragon Dining Hall. ning March 22 at 6 p.m. and will re- positions. 556-6530. For more information on the open March 25 at 6 a.m. For more information or to vol- AIR NATIONAL GUARD OPENINGS - committee, call Master Sgt. Leo Perez For more information, call John unteer, go to The 109th Airlift Wing, Scotia, New at 554-4080 or Airman 1st Class Moreau at 556-4184. www.spacesymposium.org or call 554- York, has traditional Guard vacancies Jessica Sanchez at 556-8044. GIANT VOICE TEST - The giant voice 5736. in a number of Air Force Speciality WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH - The siren and voice system will be tested ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN Codes. Peterson Women’s History Month periodically Monday and Tuesday HERITAGE COMMITTEE- The For details, contact Master Sgt. Committee is having a women’s histo- from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Peterson Asian Pacific American Wesley Ryerson at DSN 344-2456 or ry conference at the Officers’ Club For more information, call Master Heritage Committee is looking for [email protected] Wednesday, 9 a.m.-noon. Sgt. Gordon Wilkins at 556-4140. members. HISPANIC HERITAGE COMMITTEE - For more information on the con- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED - The 18th Meetings are Wednesdays, 11 The Peterson Hispanic Heritage ference, call Suzanne Lucero at National Space Symposium is slated a.m., Building 880. Committee will have its monthly meet- 554-4328.

inquiries , call the Gazette, (719) 476-1640 for display ads, and 476- 21st Space Wing 1685 for classified ads. Commander Articles for the Space Observer Brig. Gen. Bob Kehler should be submitted to the 21st Published by the Gazette, 30 S. U.S. Government, the Department of sex, national origin, age, marital sta- Chief of Public Affairs Prospect Street, Box 1779, Colorado Defense or the Department of the Air tus, physical handicap, political affili- SW/PAI, Attn: Space Observer, 775 Capt. Donald B. Kerr Springs, 80901, a private firm in no Force. ation or any other non-merit factor of Loring Ave., Ste. 218, Peterson AFB, NCOIC Internal Information way connected with the U.S. Air The appearance of advertising the purchaser, user or patron. Colo., 80914-1294. Deadline for sub- Tech. Sgt. Gino Mattorano Force, under exclusive written con- in this publication, including inserts Editorial content is edited, pre- mission is 4:30 p.m. the Wednesday Editor tract with the 21st Space Wing. This or supplements, does not constitute pared and provided by the 21st one week before publication. All arti- commercial enterprise Air Force endorsement by DOD, the Space Wing Public Affairs Office, cles, copy and announcements sub- Senior Airman newspaper is an authorized publica- Department of the Air Force or the 775 Loring Ave., Suite 218, Peterson Josh Clendenen mitted will be edited to conform to tion for members of the U.S. military Gazette, of the products or services AFB, Colo., 80914-1294. All photo- Assistant Editor AFI Series 35 and the Associated services. advertised. Everything advertised in graphs are Air Force photographs Staff Sgt. Melanie Epperson Contents of the Space this publication shall be made avail- unless otherwise indicated. Press Stylebook and Libel Manual. Observer are not necessarily the offi - able for purchase, use or patronage The Space Observer is pub- For details, call the editor at (719) cial views of, or endorsed by, the without regard to race, color, religion, lished every Friday. For advertising 556-8476 or DSN 834-7846. SPACE OBSERVER News Friday, March 15, 2002 3 WASP pilot chronicles women’s aviation By Airman 1st Class Susan McQueary was not until 1977, 33 years after the WASP dis- Public Affairs banded, that the women earned the honor of being named veterans. Deanie Bishop Parrish first learned how to fly “No one knew about the WASP. After we dis- so she could “show all those good-looking male banded in 1944, the records were sealed and were cadet instructors that girls could fly just as good as marked classified,” Deanie said. “The records were the boys.” filed away in a government archive, so historians Deanie is now trying to show the world the didn’t even know the WASPs existed. We were contributions that women pilots like her made more called the ‘best-kept secret of WWII.’” than 50 years ago. Deanie’s story began in 1941. Deanie and her daughter, Nancy Parrish, in At the time, WASP trainees had to have a pri- conjunction with Baylor University in Waco, Texas, vate pilot’s license before they could apply for train- are documenting the history of Women Airforce ing, Deanie said. To qualify, Deanie found an Service Pilots and publishing it on the Internet to instructor in her hometown to give her lessons. educate and inspire children. “I asked my instructor if he thought I’d make a “We want kids to know they can do anything good pilot. He told me that one day something would they set their mind to,” Deanie said. “I believe the happen and I would know that I would,” she said. WASP history is important to preserve.” “On my first solo flight experience, as I pushed Deanie and Nancy travel around the country to the stick forward, it came off in my hand. It wasn’t record the stories of the remaining 600 WASPs. connected. My first thought was that my instructor The WASPs’ journey began more than 50 years had done it on purpose,” Deanie said. ago when 1,830 women traveled from all over the She realized she was going to stall, so she country to in Sweetwater, Texas, to unbuckled her seatbelt in the back seat, reached over learn to fly airplanes “the Army way.” Once the the front seat and pushed forward on the front stick women completed training, 1,074 of them were to level off the aircraft. given their wings and became the first women in his- “I climbed over into the front seat and saw a Courtesy photo tory to fly American military aircraft. They were big red sign that said, ‘do not fly solo from front Deanie Parrish (top) and other Women Air Force Service Pilots served at Greenville Army Air known as WASPs. seat.’ I landed and knew my instructor was going to Base, Miss., during World War II. The WASPs were assigned to 120 air bases be mad,” Deanie said. “I taxied to him and he throughout the continental United States. The female walked away. Finally, he came over and asked what I as a tow target pilot,” she said. “The B-26 had the pilots ferried aircraft and replaced male pilots so the was doing.” largest number crashed in training of any aircraft, but men could fly in combat. The WASPs flew every Deanie pointed to the back seat and he saw the it had the best combat record.” type of mission and every aircraft flown by Air missing stick. The tow target pilots would pull a target behind Force male pilots except combat aircraft. However, “He told me, ‘now you know you have the right them while the gunners in a B-24 (Liberator) fired the WASPs were denied the same military benefits stuff to be a pilot,’” Deanie said. “The headlines read live ammunition at the target. other servicewomen received during World War II, that I was lucky, but I knew better. From that day “One day, a gunner shot my plane instead of Deanie said. forward, I never had a doubt that I would be a good the target. He put holes in the tail. I landed and was Thirty-eight WASPs lost their lives while serv- pilot.” going to give him a piece of my mind,” she said. ing their country as military pilots; however, unlike After training at Avenger Field and becoming a “Instead, the gunner and I fell in love and were mar- male pilots, their remains were returned in pine WASP, Deanie was assigned to Greenville Army Air ried for 47 years.” boxes at the family members’ expense, Deanie said. Base, Miss. (Courtesy of Air Education and Training These women were denied any benefits or honors. It “My assignment was to fly B-26 (Marauders) Command News Service) Peterson starts helping hand deployment helpline Volunteers are needed food or medication. Volunteering can help someone to help deployed under enormous stress, and it relieves the deployed member by letting him or members’ families her know that if there are problems, there is help. By 2nd Lt. Mike Andrews “We’re taking care of our own 21st Space Wing Public Affairs and ensuring the morale, welfare, and safety of the family members left Volunteers are needed by the Top behind after a deployment are taken 3 to assist with the Helping Hands pro- care of,” said Tech. Sgt. William gram, a program designed to assist Stephenson, 21st Mission Support families of deployed members with Squadron. everyday needs like transportation, People who need help should call yard work and car and home mainte- 556-Top3, and leave their name and nance. phone number, and explain what type Those interested in volunteering of problem they need help with. A should call the volunteer service coor- designated representative will check dinator at 556-6141. You will be asked the messages and then contact the to fill out a form stating your availabil- appropriate volunteer. ity, and what you’d like to help out Volunteers are prohibited from with. providing services that would require a Volunteers can help people who license from any state, federal or local need basic help around the house, not government, or are otherwise prohibit- things like yard-work may not seem avenue to help take care those in with electric or plumbing problems, ed by law. Simply put, don’t try to like much, those little things can make need.” but with simple tasks like a door com- rewire the home theater system or re- a difference for another military fami- Those eligible for this program ing off a hinge. tile the house. Leave it to the experts. ly. are dependents of deployed active duty Volunteers are also needed for Summer is just around the corner, “This is not a program to take members. Volunteers can be active- transportation. In the past, some fami- and with it, comes dreaded yard work. away from the first sergeants in the duty, DoD civilian, and retirees of any lies have had a car break down or Mowing, edging, and raking can be squadrons or the sponsor program,” rank. needed a jump-start or a flat tire fixed. tough on a person who’s never even said Chief Master Sgt. Fred Schoettler, For more information or to vol- Others may need a ride to the started a lawnmower or an edger. 21st Space Wing command chief mas- unteer for the program, call commissary or pharmacy to pick up Though volunteering for small ter sergeant. “This is just another Stephenson at 556-6336. SPACE OBSERVER 4 Friday, March 15, 2002 News AFSPC members speak out in CSAF survey By Capt. Adriane Craig and Operation Enduring Freedom. Air Force Space Command Public Affairs The survey was delayed from its original October time because of the embers of Air Force events of Sept. 11. Carabajal said the Space Command command used the delay to target the Mearned kudos from problem of reaching departing mem- command officials for racking up the bers. highest response percentage rate of all “Some organizations set up lap- major commands in the recent Chief of tops with the survey or made diskettes Staff of the Air Force Survey. available,” said Carabajal. “They real- AFSPC finished with a participa- ly handled that aspect very well.” tion rate of 73 percent, Gen. Ed Eberhart, four points ahead of commander of AFSPC, was the Air Force Reserve pleased with the high-level of Command and 23 feedback. points above the Air “I appreciate every- Force goal of 50 one’s effort on this percent. The seven- — surveys are only week survey, which as good as the partici- ended March 8, pation,” he said. measures organiza- That so many tional climate. people from the com- Tina Carabajal, mand participated AFSPC command project showed they are committed officer for the CSAF sur- to making things better — vey, said this accomplish- in terms of mission accom- ment is even more impres- plishment and quality of life, sive when you consider AFSPC Eberhart added. Photo by Staff Sgt. Melanie Epperson registered only 47 percent participation Results are expected to be dis- in 1999, when the last CSAF survey tributed to units in May. Appropriate Can I see your authority to enter? was done. information will be aggregated in “We had a lot of enthusiastic unit Leroy Howard, a manpower management analyst, checks the identifi- reports to ensure anonymity. cation card of Tech. Sgt. Michael Phillips, 21st Space Wing Public project officers,” said Carabajal, “and Commanders at all levels will be Affairs, during Condor Crest 02-1. The two-day exercise the 21st Space a lot of support from the top down.” charged to review survey results and Wing conducted was to hone our war-fighting and response skills. The The support paid off, even with take appropriate actions to improve wing can expect to conduct similar exercises throughout the spring, the challenge of additional deploy- their organizational climate. summer and early fall. ments due to Operation Noble Eagle Tax tip of the week For 2001, the lowest tax rate is 10 percent, down from 15 percent for 2000. Most individuals received bene- fits of the new 10 percent rate in an advance payment last summer and fall of income tax based on their 2000 tax returns. Usually, the following schedule applies: n For single or married filing separately - $300 n For head of household - $500 n For married filing jointly or qualifying widow or widower - $600 This advance payment is not subject to federal income tax, but the amount received will reduce or elimi- nate the Rate Reduction Credit on your 2001 tax return. The Rate Reduction Credit is for those people that did not receive the advance payment when they should have. Basically, if you received the amount listed above already, you should enter zero on the Rate Reduction Credit line of your 2001 tax return. If you have any questions on this subject, call the Peterson Tax Center at 556-5213 or 556-5214. SPACE OBSERVER News Friday, March 15, 2002 5 Peterson Weather Flight to consolidate weather operations By Staff Sgt. bined and accomplished at one with the flying squadrons,” Melanie Epperson central location or hub. she said. Weather related phone numbers 21st Space Wing public Affairs A small weather unit, or Since the 21st SW mis- combat weather team, will sion is to detect and report For questions regarding weather watches, warnings Beginning April 1, the remain attached to most bases missile and space launches to and advisories issued for PAFB or CMAFS, contact the 25 21st Operations Support to directly support the flying the National Command OWS duty forecaster at DSN 228-6698 or commercial Squadron Weather Flight will mission. Authorities, NORAD, unified (520) 228-6698. no longer provide weather The combat weather commands and U.S. combat For current weather conditions, call the Automated watches, warnings and advi- team will deploy with and pro- forces worldwide, Peterson’s Surface Observing System at 637-9696. sories for resource protection vide tailored support to their combat weather team will pro- For the PAFB 5-day non-operational forecast, log at Peterson Air Force Base and wing. vide meteorological watches onto Petecentral under “library”, then “weather.” Cheyenne Mountain Air Force “The concept for Air to help protect ground based Additional weather support requirements should be Station, or aviation weather Force reengineering is to cen- radars from terrestrial and coordinated through Maj. Sylvia Taylor, 556-4774. support to tenant and transient tralize weather support and solar weather, she added. aircraft. have smaller combat teams Currently the weather According to weather that live and breathe with their flight here provides resource weather briefer. will lose six manning posi- flight officials, all weather customer,” said Maj. Sylvia protection for the Peterson After April 1, the 25th tions, and according to Taylor, units in the Air Force are part Taylor, 21st OSS Weather complex, aviation support for Operational Weather Squadron the remaining 10 people will of a major reorganization. Flight commander. permanent and transient air- at Davis-Monthan AFB in comprise the NORAD support Using a centralized hub con- “For example, a flying craft, and staff briefing sup- Arizona will assume responsi- combat weather team. cept, primary weather support wing would have their combat port for U.S. Space Command, bility of resource protection According to weather for several bases will be com- weather team working directly NORAD, Air Force Space and aviation briefings at the flight officials, these changes Command and the 21st Space Peterson complex. are necessary to combat sever- Wing, according to 1st Lt. The 25th OWS will issue al growing problems in the Melissa Kalla, 21st OSS all watches and warnings. weather field, including severe Weather Flight command Flight briefings will be han- manpower shortages and drop- dled over the phone and ping experience levels of per- Internet. sonnel. The weather flight here (Information courtesy of the 21st Operations Support Squadron Weather Flight) SPACE OBSERVER 6 Friday, March 15, 2002 Around the Air Force Ramstein receives 10 wounded from Afghanistan By Master Sgt. east of the Afghan capital of car she was riding in near the said. transportation team, from Louis A. Arana-Barradas Kabul. village of Zermat, her hus- From there, an Army hel- Incirlik’s 43rd Expeditionary Air Force Print News The offensive, the band, Hadi Dadashian, said. icopter flew her to Bagram Air Aeromedical Evacuation biggest U.S.-led assault of the He was at her side on the Base in Afghanistan, where Squadron, monitors patients in Nine special forces peo- war on terrorism, involved flight. she underwent emergency sur- critical condition. ple and a Canadian journalist hundreds of U.S. and Afghan Dadashian, Kenna, a gery. The 11 medics were arrived at Ramstein Air Base, troops, as well as those from photographer and driver were Then an Air Force C-17 more than those found in most Germany March 6 after a long several allied nations. on their way back to Gardez Globemaster III flew Kenna to hospital intensive care units, journey that started in the bat- The flight surgeon when the attack took place. He Karshi Khanabad, Uzbekistan, said Capt. Chuck Wheeler, a tlefield where they were assigned to monitor the said five men, who looked and and then to Incirlik. On the flight nurse. wounded near Gardez, patients, Dr. (Maj.) Bryan dressed like farmers, would C-9 flight, Kenna had two Wheeler was the medical Afghanistan. Porter, from the 86th not let them pass. flight doctors and a respiratory crew director on the flight, A C-9 Nightingale Aeromedical Evacuation “Then one threw some- technician at her side. responsible for the care and aeromedical evacuation plane Squadron, said all the special thing from about a foot away,” “The military doctors safety of the patients. from Ramstein flew to Incirlik forces troops are recovering he said. “It broke through the have been wonderful,” “The patients were in Air Base, Turkey, to pick up well. window.” Dadashian said. “The attention good hands the entire trip,” he the patients. The plane “We monitored their At first, Dadashian my wife received at Incirlik said. returned to a reception of progress during the flight and thought it was a rock. It flew and on this plane — it is After the ambulances and German and international all are in stable condition, past him and landed under his incredible. I know she would media left, the airmen who media. though some have more criti- wife’s seat. Though he yelled be dead if not for them.” lined the ramp rail went to Ambulances took the cal wounds than others,” for her get out of the car, the The special forces troops work. One was Tech. Sgt. wounded to nearby Landstuhl Porter said. “A lot of them grenade exploded before any- followed a similar route. Mark Manning, an avionics Regional Medical Center. It is also have bumps and bruises.” one could escape. “I’ve never seen soldiers technician deployed here from the largest U.S. military hospi- Toronto Star newspaper Kenna was the only one receive better medical care in the 375th Maintenance tal in Europe. journalist Kathleen Kenna was hurt. Dadashian said a my 18 years in the military,” Squadron at Scott Air Force The special forces troops in critical, but stable, condi- Washington Post reporter a medical representative said. Base, Ill. are all suffering from gunshot tion, Dr. (Col.) Marshall Wong came on the site of the attack “But I don’t worry on “I was choked up, and and shrapnel wounds, and said. He led the three-member and told them to take Kenna to this plane,” he said. “My boys angry that we have to go some have broken bones. All critical care air transportation Gardez, where there were are in better hands now.” through all of this, watch our were hurt during the ongoing team from Incirlik that accom- Americans. There were three doctors, soldiers come home like this,” offensive, dubbed Operation panied Kenna on the four-hour “We took my wife there three flight nurses and five he said. “I wanted to shake the Anaconda, on an al-Qaeda flight. and the American doctors did medical technicians on the hands of each one of those stronghold in the mountains Kenna was hurt when a not ask questions, they just flight. soldiers. They are true near Gardez, some 95 miles man threw a grenade into the treated her right away,” he The critical care air heroes.” SPACE OBSERVER FYI Friday, March 15, 2002 7 Today Thursday n Mothers on the Move, 9:30-10:30 n Career marketing, 8 a.m.-noon, at a.m., at the Family Advocacy Center. the Family Support Center. n Marketing yourself for a second Monday career, 2:45-4:30 p.m., at the Family Support Center. Call to sign up. n Mothers on the Move, 9:30-10:30 a.m., at the Family Advocacy Center. March 22 Tuesday n Craft fair, 10 a.m.-3:00 p.m., in the officers’ club ballroom. n Sponsorship training, 7:30-8:30 n Mothers on the Move, 9:30-10:30 a.m., at the Family Support Center. Tower of a.m., at the Family Advocacy Center. n Easter season luncheon, noon, at the chapel. power n Franklin-Covey’s “What Matters Helpful Numbers Most” seminar, call 556-6104 or 556- This 300-foot tower at n Family Advocacy Center 556-8943 8224 to sign up. , n Education Center 556-4064 Fla, will provide a sta- n Library 556-7462 Wednesday tionary platform for n Community Center 556-7671 testers to evaluate the n Aquatics Center 556-4608 n Story time for kids, 10 a.m., at the performance of n Fitness Center 556-4462 library. weapons seekers n “Stripes to Bars” Air Force ROTC against real targets in n Officers’ Club 556-4181 Airmen Education Lunch, 11 a.m.-1:30 an open-air environ- n Enlisted Club 556-4194 p.m., at the education office, Room ment. The tower will n Youth Center 556-7220 be operational in April. 101. A free lunch will be provided. Courtesy photo n Family Support Center 556-6141 n Mothers on the Move, 9:30-10:30 n Chapel 556-4442 a.m., at the Family Advocacy Center. Community Notes Community News housing privileges of anyone who are a limited number of scholarships FEDERAL WOMEN'S PROGRAM - refuses to become licensed. available to Air Force Academy Falcon To learn more about Family Sports Camps. These scholarships will March is Women's History Month, and Child Care as a career, call the FCC be offered to kids ages 5-12 on a com- the FWP is having a conference at the Peterson Air office at 556-4322. muter only basis, and recipients must Peterson Air Force Base Officers’ Club PIKES PEAK MILITARY FAMILY provide all necessary equipment for Wednesday, 9 a.m.-noon, followed COOKBOOK - The Peterson Air Force the camp. To receive an application, Force Base with a buffet luncheon for $8.50. The Base Officers’ Wives’ Club is creating call the Colorado Springs Sports guest speaker will be Ruth Kay a cookbook to include all military fam- Corporation at 634-7333. Applications Peterson. Contact the following FWP Chapel Schedule ilies in the Pikes Peak region. To sub- must be received by March 29. members for tickets by March 18: at mit a recipe, follow the guidelines AIR FORCE AID EDUCATION GRANT- Building 1470 - Debra Agnew, 554- Protestant below. - The General Henry H. Arnold 5265; Karen Fiorillo, 554-6983; Education Grant Program awards Debbie Weaver, 554-2486; Jackie Hill, n All recipes must be neatly Services handwritten or typed. $1,500 grants to sons and daughters of 554-6975; at the Hartinger Building - active duty, retired or deceased Air Ann Dallas, 554-3370; Sandy n One recipe per page. Liturgical Worship Force members, retired reservists over Sharketti, 554-6544; Suzanne Lucero, n Clearly state the title of your 8:15 a.m. recipe. age 60, and Title 10 reservists on 554-4328; at the 21st Logistics extended active duty. Support Squadron - Beatrice Aquino, n Include your name, military Traditional Sunday Spouses are also eligible for the 556-6527; at Schriever - Yong Sharp, affiliation and phone number. Worship 11 a.m. grant. 557-4501. n List all ingredients, then the Applications are available at the Gospel Services PIKES PEAK TOP 3 - The next Pikes directions. Family Support Center or for down- Peak Top 3 meeting is scheduled for 3 Submissions may be made by e- 12:30 p.m. load at http://www.afas.org. p.m. March 28 at the enlisted club. mailing Linh Narum at FEDERAL EMPLOYEES EDUCATION Sunday School The meeting is open to all E-7 and [email protected] or mailing Linh Narum, c/o Peterson Officers’ Wives’ AND ASSISTANCE FUND SCHOLAR- selects, E-8 and E-9s from all branches 9:45 a.m. SHIP - Federal employees and family of service, active duty and retired. Club, P.O. Box 14066, Peterson AFB, CIVILIANEMPLOYEE HEALTH BENE- CO. members who are interested in the Catholic Federal Employees Education and FITS SERVICE DAY - Representatives For more information, call Assistance Fund Scholarships may Services from Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Narum at 591-7010. DOD MARROW DRIVE - The 721st apply through March 29. Government Employees Health Mass For an application, send a self- Association, PacifiCare of Colorado Support Group is holding a DoD addressed, stamped, number 10 busi- Weekdays and Kaiser Permanente will be at the Marrow Donor Drive at Cheyenne ness envelope to FEEA Scholarships, Civilian Personnel Flight training room Mountain 10 a.m.-5 p.m. March 26 in 11:35 a.m. Suite 200, 8441 W. Bowles Avenue, Tuesday, noon-1:30 p.m., to speak with the third floor breakroom near the din- ing facility. Littleton, CO, 80123-9501. Saturdays 5 p.m. civilian employees about benefits. OPERATION BOOTSTRAP - The Air For more information, call For more information, call Tech. Sundays 9:30 a.m. Force Bootstrap program has been Beverly Sagapolutele at 556-7073. Sgt. Kristin Clark at 556-8474. replaced by the Air Force Education Reconciliation SUMMER HIRE PROGRAM - The RED CROSS CLASSES - The Leave of Absence Policy. Student Summer Hire Program will be American Red Cross will offer a num- Saturdays 4 p.m. ber of classes throughout March. The main changes are in the June 3 - Aug. 23. amount of obligated service incurred, For details on the program, call The classes and fees are as fol- Religious which is now two months for every Nancy Nowacki at 556-6188. lows: one month of leave, and in pay, which Education CHILD CARE - Military spouses who n Babysitter training for youth is cut to basic pay only for the duration are presently providing childcare or ages 11-15, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday Adult and pre K- and March 23. There is a $30 fee. of leave. who want to care for children other Those already enrolled or than their own for a total of 10 hours For details, call 556-7590. 12th grade Sundays approved will not be affected by the or more per week must be licensed to Education Center 8:30 a.m. changes. do so in on-base quarters. The support SPORTS CORPORATION YOUTH For details on the changes, call group commander may revoke the SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM - There the education center at 556-4064. SPACE OBSERVER 8 Friday, March 15, 2002 Feature Career assistance advisor offers sound counsel Master Sgt. Laura ed as a result of a few things. And fourth, a lack of under- the 21 Space Wing CAA, what Velasquez is the 21st Space First, there were constant standing and somewhat lack of is your goal? Wing career assistance advi- retention shortfalls across all knowledge among our non- VELASQUEZ: My goal sor. During a recent interview enlisted categories -- first commissioned officers and and focus is to ensure supervi- for the Space Observer, she term, second term and career supervisors with regard to our sors are talking to their people expressed her thoughts on her airmen. Second, intense com- benefits and career opportuni- about the benefits of an Air job and Air Force retention. petition from a booming econ- ties. Force career. It is critical for SPACE OBSERVER: omy. Third, a perception of My position here was me to make sure supervisors Why did the Air Force create "erosion of benefits" as well created to assist commanders are equipped with the right the CAA position? as continual changes in type in developing wing-level tools to assist subordinates in VELASQUEZ: The pro- and complexity of existing retention programs. making informed decisions. gram was actually implement- benefits and entitlements. SPACE OBSERVER: As I am a resource for the Velasquez commander, first sergeant and VELASQUEZ: most importantly, immediate Professional Military supervisor. I want to work Education provides a founda- with these folks to identify, tion for supervisors in coun- isolate, and (if possible) elimi- seling, providing feedback and nate career irritants affecting mentoring. Air Force personnel and their It is my job to help families. supervisors apply these skills SPACE OBSERVER: as well as provide them with What benefit does this provide current credible information for our airmen? on benefits and career options that ultimately will fulfill the NCOs inherent responsibility of "taking care of his/her peo- ple." SPACE OBSERVER: Does the CAA position replace first sergeant or super- visor responsibilities? VELASQUEZ: Not at all. I am not a substitute for first sergeants or supervisors. I am a conduit for retention infor- mation through out the base. First sergeants and supervisors are force multipliers in addressing declining retention trends. I have very limited opportunities to talk to airmen. Supervisors interact with their people everyday and can show airmen the advantages of a military career. My job is to provide the supervisors the information the need to talk smart about benefits and career options and help the Air Force retain the great airman they've trained and mentored for four or more years. SPACE OBSERVER: How do you get the informa- tion out to supervisors? VELASQUEZ: I brief at organizational functions, Enlisted Professional Development, the First Term Airman Center and Airman Leadership School on a regu- lar basis. In addition my door is always open for supervisors and individuals with specific questions. The CAA Web site con- tains a host of tools for every- one on retention issues and career news. It includes tips for performing feedback, points of contact for programs, and a variety of other tools to help people be better supervi- sors. The CAA web site can be accessed at www.peterson.af.mil/caa. SPACE OBSERVER Tip of the Sword Friday, March 15, 2002 9 21st CONS named best of the best Air Force Association By Master Sgt. D.K. Grant in the history of , Greenland, acquir- 21st Space Wing Public Affairs ing $2.4 million in supplies, as well as four ships, to announces nominees provide life-saving support before frozen ports could Each year the Air Force Association spon- The 21st Contracting Squadron here was prevent delivery. sors several trophies and awards of Air Force- recently named the best specialized contracting unit The unit has also been involved in international wide interest relating to aerospace activity. in the Air Force according to a message released by support activities. Members were involved in These awards are the Theodore Von the Secretary of the Air Force Office of Acquisitions. deploying a team to train 100 Lithuanians in con- Karman Award, David C. Schilling Award, Gill They shared the honor with the 39th CONS, Incirlik tracting principles, and led a state department out- Robb Wilson Award, Hoyt S. Vandenberg AB, Turkey (U.S. Air Forces in Europe). The actual reach to former Soviet Union countries to support Award and the Citation of Honor. awards will be presented at the Pentagon April 18. critical environmental cleanup. The AFSPC nominees for the 2002 Air According to Lt. Col. Reggie E. Selby, 21st After the Sept. 11 attack on America, the team Force Association Aerospace Awards: CONS commander, the contracting team earned the worked to ensure anti-terrorism and force protection n The Theodore Von Karman Award recognition thanks to their stellar performance and requirements were met in support of operations nominee is the 76th Space Control Squadron, “bold contracting solutions for the Air Force’s Enduring Freedom and Noble Eagle. 21st Space Wing, Peterson Air Force Base, largest, most diversified wing supporting the missile The award came as no surprise to the 21st Colo. warning and space surveillance mission.” Logistics Group commander, Col. Alvin Strait. “It’s n The David C. Schilling Award nominee According to Selby, in fiscal year 2001, the something we already knew to be true, but it’s great is the 21st Space Operations Squadron, 50th 21st CONS contracts totaled about $250 million, and to see the Air Force come to the same conclusion,” Space Wing, Onizuka Air Force Station, Calif. the on-going contract value exceeds $1.65 billion. said Brig. Gen. Bob Kehler, 21st Space Wing com- n The Hoyt S. Vandenberg Award nomi- The responsibility level of managing those contracts, mander. nee is the 341st Operations Support Squadron, he said, is phenomenal, just the like the work done Some of the Air Force awards are: 341st Space Wing, , by the contracting team. n SAF Professionalism in Contracting Mont. Those contracts, were far from run-of-the mill. (Supervisory) - Karen Matkin. n The Citation of Honor nominee is the The eclectic nature of the unit’s customers translates n SAF Professionalism in Contracting (Non- 30th Operations Group, 30th Space Wing, into a variety of unusual contracts. The 21st CONS Supervisory), Maureen Atwood Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. led two A-76 outsourcing efforts for Cheyenne n Outstanding Officer (Field Grade), Maj. n The Gill Robb Wilson nominee is the Mountain Air Force Station, called the “most suc- William J. Lorey 30th Communications Squadron, 30th Space cessful in AFSPC” by the major command com- n Outstanding Officer (Company Grade), Capt. Wing, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. mander. In support of that process, contracting Joseph Finotti These teams will represent Air Force orchestrated the transfer of more than 500 military n Outstanding Contracting SNCO, Master Sgt. Space Command at the Air Force-wide compe- civil engineer and communications positions to civil- Douglas Guldan tition. ian positions, saving more than $46 million, he said. n Outstanding Contingency Contracting, Staff (Information courtesy of the Air Force Also, during FY 01, the unit responded swiftly Sgt. Ronald King Award, Staff Sgt. Robert L. Association) to alleviate the problems caused by the worst flood Howard, Jr." SPACE OBSERVER 10 Friday, March 15, 2002 Sports Denver Nuggets invade Peterson By 2nd Lt. Mike Andrews 21st Space Wing Public Affairs

he Denver Nuggets ended the longest current win- Tning streak in the National Basketball Association by defeating the Portland Trail Blazers at home Saturday night, and then visited the Peterson Air Force Base fitness center Sunday to sign autographs. Thirty-eight players, coaches and members of the Denver Nuggets Photo by Alex Worden organization, signed autographs for a Top cops group of more than 100 people at the fitness center to help show their sup- The 21st Security Forces Squadron took top honors during the base basketball championship. Team members pictured are (left to right) port for the armed forces and the Airman 1st Class Phillip Bradt, Staff Sgt. Wavelon Jackson, Airman 1st important job they do everyday. Class Joshua Bleem, Airman 1st Class Aaron Hunter, Master Sgt. Saul Photo by Dennis Howk “It means a lot to our families Jackson. Not pictured Tech. Sgt. Cedric Mitchell, Tech. Sgt. J.T. Jones. and especially our young athletes to Clyde Drexler, of the Denver see how star athletes give back to the Nuggets, poses for a picture with a few fans after their visit to community – that it’s not just about Cheyenne Mountain Air Force winning and playing basketball,” said Station on Sunday. Let us know about your Brig. Gen. Bob Kehler, 21st Space Wing commander. basketball team the 10-12 year-old sporting event and we’ll try The autograph session at “Denver Nuggets.” Peterson was in conjunction with a “Team Peterson and the Air visit to Cheyenne Mountain Air Force are excited the Nuggets took the our best to cover it. Station. The players signed autographs, time out of their schedules during bas- took pictures with fans, and posed for ketball season to visit with us here in a picture with the Peterson AFB youth Colorado Springs,” said Kehler. [email protected]