TABLE OF CONTENTS

People helping people ...... 1 History of Loring ...... 2 People ...... 3-9 Pre-arrival planning ...... 10 Climate 10 Road conditions ...... 10 Mileage ...... 10 Reporting in ...... 11 In-processing ...... 11 Getting paid ...... 11 Firearm registration ...... 11 Vehicle registration ...... 11 Housing facilities ...... 12 Family housing ...... 12 Floor plans ...... 13 Barracks ...... 13 Commissary ...... 14 Base Exchange ...... 14 Educational opportunities ...... 16 Youth activities ...... 16 School system ...... 17 Nursery school ...... 17 Family services ...... 18 Clothing Sales ...... 18 Library ...... 18 Hospital ...... 19 Dental care ...... 19 Veterinarian ...... 19 Chapel activities ...... 20 Dining Hall ...... 21 Recreation ...... 22-26 Swimming pool ...... 22 Aero Club ...... 22 Golf Course ...... 22 Auto/Wood Hobby Shop ...... 23 Gym ...... 23 Bowling Center ...... 23 NCO Club ...... 25 Officers' Club ...... 25 Ski slope ...... 26 Base facilities ...... 27 is ...... 28-31

About the Cover Maine is known for skiing, ice skating, camping, fishing, snowmobi/ing and other sports. It MILITARY PUBLISHERS, 1021 W, Maple Street, P.O. is also known for its quiet and Box 12188, San Diego, Cal. scenic beauty as shown b y 92112 this photograph taken by SSgt. Telephone (714) 239-3835 Dennis Keener.

LORING

HOME OF THE 42nd BOMBARDMENT WING (HEAVY) In June, 1956, the wing's first B-52 Stratofortress arrived. The bomber force was trimmed to one squadron with movement of the 75th in 1959 and the 70th in 1966. In January 1955, the 42nd Air Refueling Loring Air Force Base occupies a 10,000 acre area in Squadron was activated. KC-135 Stratotankers replaced northeast Maine. It took seven years of planning and work its propeller-driven KC-97s in October 1957. The tanker to transform dense forests into a functioning Air Force fleet doubled with the arrival of the 407th Air Base. Refueling Squadron in July 1968. A stretch of land more than two miles long had to During its history, the wing has been chosen for be graded and filled so the large aircraft could have a many honors. In November 1956, four of its B-52s straight, level runway. flew nonstop to the North Pole and then around When the work was completed, the 42nd North America's perimeter to test the bombers' Bombardment Wing (Heavy) was activated here effectiveness. February 25, 1953, and entered its operational period as One year later, six wing B-52s flew a good will a unit of Eighth Air Force. With the activation of the mission to Buenos Aires, Argentina. wing came the 69th, 70th, and 75th Bomb The 42nd Bomb Wing was the first SAC organization to Squadrons. Three months later the first B-36 Peacemaker start a First Term Airmen's Council in January 1969 bombers began arriving. and the first to certify WAF force status controllers, six The base at this time was called Limestone AFB. On months later. Oct. 1, 1954, it was renamed Loring AFB in honor Presently, the 42nd Bomb Wing is engaged in of Maj. Charles J. Loring, Jr., a Portland, Maine, development of an operational capability with the new native. Major Loring, in a 1952 fighter-bomber mission Short Range Attack Missile (SRAM). The 42nd is the in Korea, dove his F-80 into an enemy gun first Air Force base to be equipped with the new emplacement. He was posthumously awarded the Medal weapon system. of Honor.

PEOPLE TALK

Any Air Base, no matter where it is located, is an accumulation of machinery, buildings and concrete runways. What transform a base into a living community is the people which make up that community. People give a base its own individual flavor, its personality. Loring is like other installations. Some like the base, others don't. But all get on with the job at hand, doing their own part in the overall mission. Therefore, no base guide is complete unless it highlights that most important resource of a community - its people.

Sgt. James U. Baker, Motor Pool Driver 42nd Transportation Sq. "This is the first time my wife and I have been in a cold climate, and we're taking advantage of it. We're learning to ski and enjoy other winter sports. "We arrived in June from Puerto Rico and found it somewhat difficult to adjust to the chilling cold. When the first cold spell hit us, we were walking around all bundled up while others were still wearing short sleeves. But we've made the required adjustments. "Housing off-base is hard to find and what you do get for the money isn't all that great. We're renting a house in Limestone now, after living in Presque Isle. We're a lot happier now since we are close to the base, but it will be even better when we move on base. "One big advantage to living on base is that you have so much in common with your neighbors. This will be our first chance and we're looking forward to taking part in the Loring military community."

Capt. Lanny R. Geib, Instructor Pilot 407th Air Refueling Sq. "I guess you might call me an old timer up here; I've been at Loring for over five years. Although I'm from Philadelphia, I don't like big cities. I do like camping, hunting and fishing, and this is ideal for that. Nova Scotia and the Maine coast are beautiful, and everyone should try to get to see them, as well as the other beautiful areas around. "Perhaps the best advice anyone could get is to not come here with a negative attitude. If the Air Force didn't need us here, we wouldn't be here, so it is up to us to make it with what we've got. The people here are fantastic, and there is a good c h a n c e f o r advancement because people are interested in your career."

AlC Joyce E. Howell, USAF Hospital "I've been here 17 months and I still haven't gotten used to the snow. I'm from a little town in Mississippi called Sumral. They do have a lot of good winter sports here, but I'd tell anybody coming here to bring as many clothes as they can. "Really, Loring is okay. There are other places a lot worse than here. Off base shopping, though, is hard. Prices are higher and the quality is lower. The best thing to do is comparison shop."

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Sgt. Paul H. Boisvert, B-52 Crew Chief 42nd Organizational Maintenance Squadron "Loring is a great place to be if you're the outdoor type. There are plenty of winter sports here like skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing and camping. In the spring and fall, fishing and camping are really great. Hunting is also good. Recreation Services has most of the equipment that one needs for all these things. "I'm a B-52 crew chief and working on them in the winter is really hard work. Because of the extreme winter temperatures, we alternate, working only about five minutes at a time in the cold, especially when it's minus 12 or below. There are also times when the wind and snow are blowing so hard that we don't work at all. "During the summer it's not bad at all since it seldom gets very hot. In fact, it's rather nice. I've been here a little over two years and really enjoy it, but you have to look for the recreation. It just doesn't come looking for you."

CMSgt. William S. Van Evera, Sergeant Major 42nd Bomb Wing "How many people really give the base a fair chance? Before they ever get here they make up their minds they're not going to like it. As soon as they get here they put in their paper work to go somewhere else, like another stateside base or somewhere overseas. "Oh sure, people are going to have problems getting used to this, or any other base, but the only way to work it out is to solve the problems. "Anytime a person has a problem, they can come to me

I and we'll sit down together, discuss whatever is bothering them, and come up with a workable solution. If people take the time to communicate, then we can get things done."

5 Col. Lawrence E. Bortness, Commander, 42nd Combat Support Group "When a newcomer drives through the front gate, he has to make up his mind that he's going to like it here. He has to go native and winterize himself. "This isn't my first tour at a northern tier base. I spent six years at Ellsworth, near Rapid City, South Dakota, and we had the same kind of problems there, such as lag time in materiel deliveries.' "When I think about the meaning of a combat support group, I see 'support' as the most important word, support of the combat mission. "I feel as close to the enlisted men as I do to the officers. There is no separation, they are all people, and will all need service. This service I try to provide. We must all work to get the facilities such as the dormitories, the BX, the Commissary into the program, into a program for the future."

Capt. Richard E. Hughes, Chief Data Automation Branch "People should come up to Loring open- mindedly because the base reputation is really unjustified. They should look for what the area has to offer. It's beautiful country up here, and there are plenty of activities to keep anyone busy. Besides winter sports like skiing and skidooing, there's boating, hunting, fishing and more than enough athletic programs. Clubs like the Aero Club are a big thing too. "The big thing, I guess, is for people to not isolate themselves. They should get out and mix, make friends with people who are having a good time, not negative people. The ones who get 'cabin fever' up here in the winter time are the ones who don't choose to get out. "One problem here is shopping. You have to use your ingenuity to get anything out of the ordinary. A good catalogue comes in handy sometimes."

AlC Barbara E. Seay Administrative Specialist, 42nd Bomb Wing "I've been here since May, and I like it. The people are wonderful, the scenery is beautiful and I've got a good job. Mostly, though, it's the people. "The base isn't that bad, but a lot of peoples' attitudes about it are. There is plenty to do on the base, you just have to look for it. When people get here they ought to go out, look around and see what the base has. They shouldn't listen to anyone else's opinion, they should form their own. "Friends are especially important. Get out and introduce yourself to people, get to know them."

1st Lt. Theodore E. Bess Race Relations Officer Social Actions Office "I think there is a tendency on this or any other base to label any conflict between Black and White 'racist' when really what it is simply misunderstanding between two people without regard to color. The biggest problem I see here is the gap between the old NCOs and younger airmen. There is not enough personal contact between them, they don't know each other, they don't know each other's likes and dislikes. The solution to both problems is more togetherness and less separation between the ranks, between men of different color. For example, I see no need for three separate clubs for officers, NCOs and airmen. "I think a lot of young men, both black and white, feel as I do: 'Don't do me any special favors, let me succeed on my own merits, but don't take away what I have earned. Treat me as an equal human being."

MSgt. Ronald J. Gray Weapons Maintenance Supervisor 23rd Munitions Maintenance Squadron "I didn't volunteer to come to Loring, but the reception I received here was excellent. The newcomer's briefing and the wing commander's orientation briefing were both good, and everyone has gone out of their way to help in any way they can. The in-processing was good too. I got paid and all squared away the first day on base. "SAC has eased up quite a bit since the last time I was in it seven years ago. They are more relaxed than they used to be, and more for the individual. As a result, I think there is more esprit de corps and better job performance. Everyone is willing to explain things instead of just saying, 'Do it because I say so.' I think the command has a good program and they are trying to make Loring the best they can under the circumstances."

1st Lt. Corbin L. Plymale, Job Control Officer "I've been here two years, and I like it here. I don't mind the location, and I like to ski, which helps. Actually, the place may be in a cold climate, but it has a warm atmosphere, and that makes it a lot better than some of the other bases I've been on. "One of the great things about Loring are the attractions nearby, like Quebec and . Quebec is only 250 miles away, and it's one of the most fascinating places I've ever been to. Boston, of course, is one of the great metropolitan areas in the country. "Enjoying your job helps in adjusting to the base, but another thing that helps is taking up winter sports and getting outside as much as possible. "The only complaint I have about the base is that base housing is not up to par for the higher ranks."

42d Bomb Wing Commander Col. James H. McGrath then returned to his home station, Walker AFB, N.M., as a Colonel James H. McGrath became the Wing B-52 Standardization and Director of Operations Training Commander of the 42nd Bombardment Wing (H) SAC at Castle AFB, Calif. March 23, 1972. Later he was assigned to Andersen AFB, Guam, where Prior to his assignment here, he was Wing Commander he participated in 32 combat missions as airborne of the 93rd Bombardment Wing, Castle Air Force Base, commander aboard a B-52. During his assignment in Calif. Guam, he also served as the Director of Operations Colonel McGrath began his military career with the U.S. Training, Third Air Division, which was later redesignated Navy, serving with them from 1945 to 1946. After this he as the Eighth Air Force. entered school and graduated from Bay City Junior His next assignment moved him back to Castle AFB, College in 1948. He then returned to military service Calif., where he held positions as Deputy Commander for through the Aviation Cadet Program and was Operations, Vice Wing Commander and Wing commissioned on February 25, 1949. He then served as a Commander. pilot of the RB -29 and flew as a reconnaissance pilot in His military decorations include the Meritorious Service the first multi engine jets used by the Strategic Air Medal, the Air Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Command - the RB -45 and later the RB -47. Force Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal During the Korean conflict, Colonel McGrath logged 18 and various other awards and campaign ribbons. combat missions as a reconnaissance pilot in the RB-45. Colonel McGrath is married to former Martha Huesgen Until 1956, his primary duty was aircraft commander, R B- of Marshall, Mo., and reside at Loring. They have six 47. I n 1957 he attended the B-52 combat crew training children: Kathy, Mike, Pat, Maureen, Marquerite, and course at Castle AFB, and Daniel.

WINTER WEATHER

Maine climate is similar to that found in the southern A more northern route through Canada is also a New England states with the exception of the winters picturesque trip on the modern Trans-Canada Highway. which can be colder. Quebec, by the way, is the closest major city and is only Winter weather generally does not arrive until five hours away. The portion from Detroit to Quebec is fast November and then after some of the most beautiful on a dual-lane road and without tolls. After Quebec, the autumn weather to be found anywhere in the country. road is narrower and winding in places. Travelers can Temperatures generally drop into the minus ranges at cross the border at either Fort Kent or Madawaska, Maine. night from December through February. These months also see the most snowfall. Last year, Loring received a Flying In total of 95.2 inches of snow. However, this amount is less Daily flights into Presque Isle leave from Boston. than that received at most other northern tier bases. Northeast flies a morning and evening flight; Excellent maintenance of your automobile is a must due although, during the winter months, the evening flight is to the cold temperatures. Heavy duty batteries, permanent discontinued. Aroostook Airways flies two flights antifreeze, snow tires and light weight oil are needed. You throughout the year. An Air Force bus is available from should also winterize your car to 40 degrees below zero Presque Isle to Loring coinciding with Northeast's for full protection. Last year's lowest temperature was schedule. Check the latest schedule before making minus 23 degrees. The record low was minus, 32 plans. recorded in February, 1955. New arrivals will be issued parkas and gloves which Bus Schedule provide plenty of warmth during the winter months. The Bangor and Aroostook Bus Lines offer two buses Additional winter gear is issued depending on where you daily, one stopping at Loring AFB and the other in Caribou. will work. One bus leaves very early in the morning and the other Other members of the family will need winter wear leaves in the late morning. Both come from New York. The which is available in the Base Exchange and nearby towns. trip from Boston is 12 hours. Again, check with the With the appearance of April comes warmer schedule before making plans. temperatures. Spring arrives in May. Summers are comfortably mild with temperatures ranging in the 70's.

Road Conditions Traveling Northward Travelers enjoy excellent roads from Portsmouth, N.H. into Bangor, Maine, on the Maine Turnpike. Once outside Bangor, the road becomes a fast and straight, two-lane highway into Houlton. Northern bound travelers have a choice of routes once they reach . Alternate 1, rather than Route 1, is faster running into Route 165 at Fort Fairfield, continuing on into Limestone. The total drive from Portsmouth to Loring AFB generally takes six hours and is a picturesque trip. Caution should be exercised when making the drive after October since travel during the winter months can be hazardous. Snow tires are a must for winter travel. The best rule for winter driving is to keep informed about weather conditions throughout your trip in order to arrive without incident.

the payroll. Travel pay will normally be paid two working days after processing through Finance. Single airmen will receive their check in their mailbox as long as Finance has the address. Persons living in base housing or off-base will receive their check at their home. YOU'VE ARRIVED In-Processing Firearms Registration Once you have arrived at the base, you will find that All privately owned firearms must be registered every effort is made to get you signed and processed with immediately upon arrival. Individuals residing in the minimum delay. Thanks to the new consolidated sign- barracks must register their firearms with the Law in/sign-out system and one-stop processing arrangement, Enforcement Desk Sergeant, Bldg. 5200, and the weapon moving onto the base should take one day. Every phase of will be stored in the consolidated weapons storage area. in-processing from personnel actions to pay to car Persons residing in base housing must register their registration is in one building. weapons with the Pass and I D Section, Bldg. 5000 within If you arrive at the base in your own vehicle and have a 72 hours of their arrival, but may store weapons in the sticker from your previous base, you will be waived family quarters. through the gate. However, if you don't have a sticker from Registration forms can be obtained from your respective your previous base or if you are arriving at Loring as your orderly rooms. first permanent station, you will be stopped by the security policeman at one of the two gates. Vehicle Registration All you will be asked for is your military identification Upon arrival you will be issued a Temporary Visitor's card. The policeman will then direct you to Base Pass which is valid for 24 hours during which time you Headquarters where you can sign in. should complete registration of your vehicle. On weekends If you arrive at Presque Isle by plane, a bus will pick this pass is good until Monday. you up and drop you off at Base Headquarters. Registration can be accomplished during processing Signing in can be accomplished any time, day or night, since Pass and I.D. is in the same building as In- at Base Headquarters, Bldg. 5000. If you arrive during the Processing. If you have a current Air Force decal from day and choose to go in person, report to the duty status another base, it can be transferred. section of the Consolidated Base Personnel Office, Room Requirements are: Valid driver's license, valid insurance 120. policy containing public liability of $20,000/$40,000 and If you arrive after duty hours and choose to go in property damage of $10,000, and registration and/or title. person, go to the People's Center, the first office on your Driver's license, car tags and registration must be from left as you enter the front door, and report to the Maine or a state where you are a legal resident. You may Noncommissioned Officer On Duty (NCOD). not have a driver's license, insurance and registration from If you prefer, you can call ext. 6174 at any time and be three different states. signed in. Persons who have their vehicle registered with another state must have it inspected by a Maine Inspection Station Processing In when their current state inspection expires. The following work day after you sign in, CBPO's "One Stop In-Processing" will make you a full-fledged member of the Loring community. You must report for the In- Processing Briefing at 7:45 a.m. in Room 114, Base Headquarters. If you have a maintenance Air Force Specialty Code, you must first go to your squadron orderly room and get an AF Form 2095, Personal Action Request, filled out. The following day report to the In-Processing Briefing at 7:45 a.m. In any case, before going to the briefing, be sure you have a supply of your orders.

Finance The Finance Office is located on the second floor of Base Headquarters, Bldg. 5000. Military pay records are maintained at Griffiss AFB, New York. Any discrepancies in pay should be reported immediately to the Military Pay Section, Accounting and Finance. They have a direct teletype link with Griffiss and all pay inquiries are processed promptly. When processing through Finance, you will be paid one payday in advance to allow your pay records to be entered into the pay system at Griffiss. By the second payday after your arrival, you should be on

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A LOOK AT HOUSING There are 575 officer housing units and 1,421 enlisted units which are of the Capehart, Government and Wherry construction variety. Wherry units make up the majority of housing with 945 enlisted and 478 officer units. The waiting period changes periodically, depending on the rate of personnel turnover each month. This period is generally less than 30 days for two and three bedroom homes. Four bedroom homes are limited with 118 units. Criteria for these homes require four children, one over 12 or five or more children. Be sure to work closely with your sponsor in order to get a clear picture of the housing situation before making your move. Temporary Quarters are available for families. Reservations can be made with the Billeting Office for Guest Quarters which are one and two bedrooms. However, reservations should be made 30 days in advance to insure their availability. One week is the limit of your stay. Again, your sponsor can be helpful in reserving lodging for you and your family. Motels are readily available in the area and cost between $14 and $20 per day.

For those who plan to live off base, available dwellings are limited and expensive. Most of the homes are old because new housing construction is limited. Again, the Housing Office can help in locating a home. Base housing is unfurnished except for stove and refrigerator. There is adequate space for a privately owned washer and dryer. In addition, a cable television service is available for those desiring to subscribe. Garages are available for those living in Wherry housing, although additional parking space base-wide for that second car is limited. The possibility of finding space for a mobile home is good, with several parks off base. Mobile home owners can expect to pay around $25 for a lot which includes water and sewage.

SECOND FLOOR

DORMITORY SITUATION AT ITS DAWN

Since the dormitories were built in the early 50's, many are in need of improvement. Heat control, hot water, lighting and soundproofing are the areas of primary concern. With this in mind, base officials have made dormitory improvement a priority project. And, the situation is looking up.

More than $263,000 was spent last year for new furnishings with an added $80,000 programmed for this Bachelor Officers' Quarters are adequate with two rooms year. In addition, a Military Personnel Center project to and an adjoining bath. Kitchen and laundry facilities are remodel and enlarge the living space for airmen has been also provided. Bachelors can expect to live on base in the approved. Two airmen currently share a room. BOQ. With a little paint and some ingenuity, the rooms can be Before you make your move, it is recommended that you tailored to meet individual taste. Refrigerators are allowed write the Base Housing Office which can provide you with in the rooms and can be stocked with your choice of more detailed information, especially where you would refreshments. stand on the waiting list. In addition, your sponsor can be Another improvement added last year is custodial of great assistance. service for the latrines, halls and day rooms. For further information write: Overall, the dormitory picture could be described as at Housing Office its dawn. Base officials, with help from the First Term Bldg. 4300 Airmen's Council, are making a determined effort towards Owens Drive improvement. Loring AFB, Maine 04750

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Base Exchange The Main Exchange is located in the Community Shopping Center along with the Commissary, Post Office, and Service Station. Housed in the Main Exchange Commissary building are the beauty shop, barber shop and cafeteria. The Commissary is located next to the Base Exchange. The Main Exchange offers a wide range of clothing and Plans are presently underway for an expansion program in soft goods. Two other stores are located on base and 1972. handle many additional items not found at other bases. This program calls for the remodeling of the customer The Four Seasons Shop specializes in major service area and will include replacement of show cases, an increase to the check-out area and an addition to the appliances, rugs, occasional furniture, outdoor living and warehouse. This expansion program will provide better garden supplies, and sporting goods. and faster service to the customer. The Exchange Annex handles small appliances, household goods, and a wide range of basic staples; Banking keeping the doors open seven days a week. Fast and complete banking service is provided by Barber shops are conveniently located at three outlets: Northern National Bank located at the corner of Texas and BOQ for officers by appointment, NCO Club and the Main Wisconsin Roads. Services provided are checking and Exchange. savings accounts, safety deposit boxes and loans. The The beauty salon, also located in the Main Exchange bank and finance office also have an arrangement where building, offers a variety of services to women. one can have his check automatically deposited on A commercial taxi service is another available service payday. for stranded pedestrians. Call 496-0421. Additional services available include a Coin-Operated Credit Union Launderette, a Dry Cleaning & Shoe Repair Pick-Up Point, The Loring Credit Union is located in Bldg. 3010 and is and a Watch Repair Concession. These facilities are open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It also has offices on located in the same building as the Four Seasons Store. Sawyer Road, just outside the West Gate, in Caribou and For food service, in addition to the Main Exchange cafeteria, there is a Base Operations Snack Bar, a mobile in Presque Isle. The Credit Union has over 7 million dollars in assets snackwagon servicing the flight line and shop areas, and and pays 5% per cent interest semi-annually on savings The Igloo, an amusement center/beer bar which features accounts. hot and cold sandwiches and many varieties of pizzas. Loans up to $10,000 are also provided by the Credit Pool tables, skill machines, and pinball machines make Union with a one per cent interest rate charged per month, this a popular attraction for all ages. A juke box and dance 12 per cent true annual rate. floor is available. Financial counseling is also provided for persons in need of this service. Appointments can be made by calling 328-7332 or 328-7325.

Educational Opportunities At the education office, the accent is on individual needs. A wide variety of educational opportunities are offered to both military and civilian personnel assigned to Loring. These programs lead to the awarding of High School Education, College Prep, Vocational/Technical Certificates, and Baccalaureate and Master's degrees. The High School Program consists of the High School Youth Activities General Education Development (GED) test which is A wide variety of activities awaits young dependents, conducted on base for active duty military and at Caribou centering on the Van Sickle Youth Center. The center HS for adult members of military families and also civilians. provides a meeting place for its members as well as a High School credits may also be earned through Group focal point for activities which include dances, sing-alongs Study Classes conducted on base and adult evening and games like pool and table tennis. classes conducted at Caribou High School. Membership. in the youth center costs 75 cents per Group Study Classes and Caribou High School adult month or $9 per year, but membership is not required for evening classes are also used for College Prep programs. many of the youth programs. For example, any of the The University of Maine at Presque Isle conducts the activities which have a fee connected with them, such as on-base undergraduate program offering about 20 courses guitar lessons, are open to both members and non- per semester, with classes starting September, February members. Admission will be charged to non-members for and June of each year. A wider selection of courses are things such as dances, however. also available at the school's campus, with a commuting The center is open six days and five nights a week distance of about 23 miles from Loring. during the winter. Tuesday through Sunday, the center will The University of Southern California conducts a 12- be open 1 to 5:30 p.m. The evening hours Tuesday course on-base Graduate Program leading to the awarding through Thursday are 6: 30 to 9 p.m. Friday evening is of a Master of Science Degree in Systems Management. junior teen night, 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday evening, 7 to 11 The Northern Maine Vocational/Technical Institute at p.m., is senior teen night. Presque Isle conducts on-base classes in drafting, Hobbies shorthand, typing, welding, carpentry and auto mechanics. Other programs - electronics, radio/television repairman, Some of the instructional classes which meet at the youth center are baton twirling, ballet, tap and acrobatic nursing, etc. - are available at the school's campus. dancing, guitar, piano, and arts and crafts. All of these Through a special contract with the government, some 46 U.S. colleges and universities offer discounted classes are open to all youth, whether members of the youth center or not. correspondence courses to military personnel. Most Junior athletics, including bowling, swimming and colleges and universities will accept up to 25 hours of extension credits toward a degree. diving, basketball, skiing, baseball, girls' softball, tennis and golf, form a part of the youth activities on base. The United States Armed Forces Institute (USAFI) offers Three items of summertime interest are the playground, over six thousand different courses covering a wide range daycamp and swimming lesson programs. Like the of subjects: elementary, high school, technical, vocational, athletics programs, each of these requires a registration or college and language courses. The enrollment fee is $10. lesson fee, and is, therefore, open to everyone. After successful completion of the first course, the second Sighte Club course is free. A member with some college credits, but who hasn't I Another youth group on base is the Sighte Club. This is finished his degree, may take advantage of two a service and social youth group open to 14-20 year olds. commissioning programs. Both the Airman's Education Dues for it are 75 cents per month. and Commissioning Program (AECP) and the Bootstrap Scouting is an active segment of Loring's youth activity Commissioning Program give a member the chance to schedule. Brownies, girl scouts, cub scouts, boy scouts complete his degree and earn an officer's commission. A and explorers are all represented on the scouting scene. degree without the commission may be attained through Both the Protestant and Catholic denominations have the Operation Bootstrap Program. youth clubs. The Protestant Youth of the Chapel (PYOC), All education programs are administered through the a junior group, meets Sundays at 6 p.m. at the Chapel base education office. So if you want to use your spare One Annex. The Senior PYOC meets at 7 p.m., Mondays, time to advantage, drop by the office in Bldg. 6000 or call in the Annex. The Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) exts. 2113 or 2567. meets regularly during the school year.

Kindergarten School System Kindergarten is the only grade which does not attend for There are two elementary schools on base, and both a full day. The kindergarten pupils are divided into two half- are located on California Road near West Gate. day sessions, one from 9 to 11:30 a.m., and the second Kindergarten through second grade and half of third grade from 1 to 3:30 p.m. attend Harrison School, while the other half of third grade At Harrison School, first and second grades begin at plus fourth through seventh grade go to Damon School. 8:00 a.m. but first grade ends the day at 2:15 while second Limestone School District provides busing for grade ends at 2:45. Third grade begins at 8:20 and ends at kindergarten and the first three elementary grades. Busing 3:05. is not provided for grades four through seven. At Damon School, third grade begins at 8:30 and is over Both schools are on a full session schedule, but starting at 3:05. Fourth grade starts at 8:20 and ends at 2:50. Sixth and ending times are staggered for the various grades. grade classes commence at 9:00 and are over at 3:10, and seventh starts at 8:30 and gets out at 2:50. With the exception of the seventh grade, all students are on the single-teacher system. Seventh graders are on the "platoon system," which means that each course is taught by a separate teacher. Books are provided by the school system. Hot lunches f are 30 cents per day. If a student brings his own lunch

1 from home, he can buy milk for a nickel a carton. Both schools are staffed with fully qualified teachers and rate highly in the State of Maine. Included on the staff are special education teachers for disadvantaged learners.

1 Since there is no high school on base, students attend classes at Limestone High School. The school district provides transportation to and from the school. Nearly 60 per cent of the school population is from the base. With 850 students, the school has had to go to split session scheduling. Grades 10, 11 and 12 go from 7 a.m. to noon, and grades 8 and 9 go from 12:15 to 5:15 p.m. Nursery School However, a new school is being built and will be ready for For working mothers, one of the best services on the occupancy next fall. Then, classes will go back to regular base is the Base Nursery in Bldg. 3011. Contained within a session hours. the nursery are two separate functions, the Nursery School With a staff of 51 classroom teachers, the school offers and the Nursery Care Center. the full range of high school courses. Two major Nursery School laboratories provide practical work in the sciences. Some 80 children are enrolled in the Nursery School. Offerings in the language department are French, Latin Limited to three and four-year-olds, the school serves as a and Spanish. preschool. During the sessions, the toddlers are taught Sports-minded students may participate in an intramural colors, creative games, their ABC's and social behavior. athletic program which includes soccer, basketball, Children attend two half-day classes, from 9 to 11:30 baseball, track, cross country and wrestling. Football is not a.m. and 1:30 to 4 p.m. The cost of the school is $16 per part of the program, however. When the new building is month. The tuition includes a mid-morning or mid- completed, the school will be able to add swimming to the afternoon snack. list, since a pool has been included in the plans. The school year starts in mid-August at Limestone High Nursery Care Center School. Last year the starting date was August 18. A An average of 38 children per day are enrolled in the unique feature of the calendar here is the potato harvest Nursery Care Center. Age limits orf the center are six recess. This begins in the latter part of September, and is months to 10 years of age, and children in the program three weeks long. This vacation does not affect take part in creative games, storytelling and other accreditation because the school year has a full 180 recreational activities. teaching days. The usual closing date for classes is the Hours for the center are: Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m. first week in June. This year school closes on June 8. to 11 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Saturday, noon to 1 Clubs and social organizations of various kinds are a a.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 1:45 p. m. part of life at Limestone High. However, there are no The cost of the Nursery Care Center is $16 per week, or fraternities or sororities. 50 cents per hour. This price includes lunch and snacks for the children who stay all day. Buses are provided for Nursery School children. A Bus Monitor rides on each bus to ensure that children reach home safely. i

17

Clothing Sales The $215 wardrobe you were issued when you entered the Air Force won't last forever and that's why the Clothing Sales Store is in business. Located in Bldg. 6200, the store offers all authorized Air Force items in most popular sizes. Costs at the Clothing Sales Store are consistently lower than those at the Base Exchange. If you have any question concerning clothing allowances, consult Air Force Regulation 67-57, Uniform Clothing Allowance For Airmen. The Clothing Sales Store is open for business from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Emergencies will be handled from 8 to 9 a.m. and 4:30 to 5 p.m. each weekday.

Library Service The library provides many hours of enjoyable reading. It houses 18,000 volumes which includes 800 reference books. The library also receives 120 different magazines and 9 newspapers. It is open to all military members and civilians. Hours are: Monday-Thursday - 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday-Saturday - 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, holidays - 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Family Services Family Services is staffed by 80 part-time volunteers from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each weekday. They are located in Bldg. 3011 and can be reached at ext. 6100. Services they provide include: Lending Closet, which will help you make do until your household goods arrive on station. Neighborhood Assistance, which supplies donated items to any military member or dependent free of charge. They have everything from pots and pans to uniforms. If someone needs an item not in stock, his name will be taken and he will be contacted when the stock becomes available. Welcoming Comee, which will welcome every family arriving at Loring. Emergency Committee, which provides emergency babysitting, commissary shopping, home cooking and transportation. Babysitting List, an up-to-date list of prospective babysitters is kept on file. House Cleaning, also keeps a list of people who will clean your house once you move. An annex of Family Services is located in the Presque Isle housing area. It offers all the services mentioned. Part of your in-processing orientation briefing will be conducted by a Family Services representative and any other questions you have can be answered at that time.

Hospital Care The physical and mental well being of all assigned military and dependent personnel is the primary concern of the base hospital. Your hospital is a permanent, four-story structure, originally designed as a 100-bed facility, but now authorized for 35 operating beds. Specialties available include Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatrics, Psychiatry and Radiology. This unusually wide range of specialties for a base hospital enables almost all conditions to be treated locally. Outpatient care is provided through the General Practice Clinic and selected specialty services. These services will be provided for you on an appointment basis by calling the appointment desk, exts. 2255 or 2256. As in all hospitals, our emergency room is staffed 24- hours a day to handle all emergency cases. Services also include a well stocked pharmacy, a large laboratory and a Physical Therapy unit. Information concerning CHAMPUS and any other medical administrative matter may be obtained from the Registrar's office, ext. 2587. The hospital staff is here to insure that your tour is a healthy one so that you can make it both rewarding and worthwhile.

Dental Care There are two dental clinics on base - one for the military and one for dependents. The Main Dental Clinic, located in Bldg. 6565, provides dental care Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for members of the Air Force and retired personnel. Every military member must visit the clinic for the required annual dental examination. This is during the person's birth month and includes a thorough examination, X-Rays and cleaning. Should further appointments be necessary, they are set up immediately. Routine examinations can be set on an appointment-only basis by calling ext. 2317 or 6179.

Veterinary Service Persons arriving on base are required to register dogs and cats with the vet as soon as possible. If your pet has had a rabies shot within the past year, it will not be required to have another, but proof of this is necessary. Pet clinics are held every Wednesday and are by appointment only. Routine immunization of pets is from 9 to 11 a.m. and pet sick call is from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Appointments can be made by contacting the Veterinary Office at ext. 2542. There are also two veterinarians located off-base - one in Caribou and the other in Presque Isle.

Chapel - Emphasis on People by Chaplain (Lt. Col.) James F. Wilson The usual approach in telling about a base Chapel is to list the Chapel-sponsored activities, planned and run by the assigned Chaplains, with the emphasis upon the program. But at Loring, we like to put the emphasis where it belongs - upon People. We like to think in terms of People who become involved, who participate, who serve within the community where we all live and work. And why? Because that's what religion is all about - the relationship between God and People translated into love and action. For example, there are more than 80 men and women who teach in or administer our church schools. Another 70 sing regularly in one of four choirs, while 35 more serve as lecturers, ushers and greeters during Chapel services. An additional •30 hold elective office in groups comprised of hundreds of youth and adults. And these figures do not include the scores of People whose services are quiet and unpublicized, but without whom even the best planned program would fail. As you prepare to come to Loring, don't look for a Chapel program which offers you something. Rather, bring with you a willingness to offer yourself, to share your faith in God and your God-given abilities in the community which will be your home for a while. Oh yes, you may have wondered why the word People has been capitalized throughout this invitation. There are two reasons. First, since People are our greatest asset, we think they deserve special grammatical recognition; and second, we are all a part of the People of God, and that's worth noting in any man's book.

Dining Hall Takes on New Flavor A larger portion of the base's funds is being funneled towards improving the dining hall. Stir into the pot an energetic Food Services NCO who claims he will improve the goods and the facility until it equals or betters any commercial enterprise. "I don't blow smoke and say this without facts to back it up," says SMSgt. Harold H. Hodsdon. While working as Food Services superintendent at McClellan AFB, California, Sergeant Hodsdon won the John L. Hennessy Award for four years as the best in the Air Force Logistics Command. The dining hall won the award twice as the world-wide best. " M cC l e l l an has been called the home of the Hennessy Award. I'd like to see Loring win the award and keep it." The food business took on the flavor of enthusiasm when Sergeant Hodsdon took over last year. Innovation included a Steak and Cake Day where a table is set aside for a man and his buddies to celebrate - you guessed it - birthdays; Soul Food Day appears weekly; International Night, weekly featuring exotic dishes from afar; and a short order line serving hot dogs, hamburgers and cold sandwiches. In .addition, tables are cleared for the customer. However, all the innovative programs are useless if the facility is unimaginative. Last year Dining Hall Five, which is centrally located, looked like a boot camp chow hall. Today, although the appearance has improved drastically, Dining Hall Five still looks as it did a year ago. It takes money. A construction project to the tune of $107,000 is in the works to completely remodel and repair the facility. The ceiling will be lowered, drapes hung, new lighting added and new tables and chairs purchased. A beverage center will dispense sundaes, splits, shakes, malts - the works. An FM sound system is also being installed to help soften the atmosphere. "You can't give your customers everything they want, but you can sure try." Golf Course Located northeast of the base proper is the Inland Winds Golf Course. The nine-hole par 72 duffer's paradise is 7100 yards long when played from the back and front tees. Sand traps and water hazards add to the deceiving difficulty for which the course is noted. A 36-hole par score will clinch the annual Inland Winds Invitational Golf Tournament. All equipment needed by an average golfer is provided in the club house at reduced rates and monthly and

seasonal memberships are nominally priced. Manual and power carts are available. A fully stocked snack bar will Swimming Pool quench any and all appetites. Behind the Base Gymnasium is the Olympic-size indoor swimming pool. The pool is open every day of the week. Gymnasium Monday through Friday lap swims are held for aerobics People at the Base Gymnasium can add plenty of from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday open seasoning to the life of an athletically-minded person who swimming is held from 6 to 10 p.m. visits the facility. On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, the pool allows A full size basketball court is the main attraction but open swimming from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 6 to there is also a weight room, handball court, squash court, 10 p.m. boxing equipment, a room for karate lessons and volleyball Ladies' days are held on Mondays and Thursdays from facilities. 9 to 11 a.m. and on Fridays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Construction of a $35,000 paddleball court began last A summer youth swimming program is offered from the winter and should be completed by this writing. start of summer vacation to mid-August. Children five On the relaxing side there is a new sauna bath. Moisture years of age or older are invited to attend. A Red Cross controls allow individuals to set the humidity, but the 130 Safety Instructor teaches the children basic and advanced degree temperature remains the same. swimming courses. Hours of operation are: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday A Youth Swimming Team, which practices four to five through Friday and from noon to 5 p.m. on weekends and days a week, year 'round, is also offered for advanced holidays. Special activities such as Ladies' Day, Women In swimmers. The Air Force Night and Family Night are also offered.

Aero Club The Aero Club offers military personnel and their wives the opportunity to obtain a private pilot license. The first step towards a license is a six-week ground school followed by flying lessons, all at reduced rates. Sanctioned by the Federal Aviation Administration, the club has two Piper Cherokee 140's and one Piper Cherokee 180.

Auto/Wood Hobby Shops For those who like to do their own automotive repair, maintenance and wood work, a modern, combined Auto and Wood Hobby Shop is located in Bldg. 6570. The Auto Shop has nine working stalls, two wash, one hydraulic lift, one engine room and one welding room. A full line of tools is also available. Hours of operation are: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. The Wood shop is equipped with up-to-date machine tools including lathes, sanders, planes and a full line of hand tools. Wood can be purchased at the shop although selection is limited to mahogany, birth and pine. Plywood varieties include birch veneer and interior fir. Hours of operation are: 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Bowling Center and Snack Bar The newly constructed 16 bowling lanes belong to one of the most modern bowling centers in the area. This facility houses a pro shop and a snack bar which provides food as well as a good selection of equipment. Since bowling is a family sport, both men's and women's leagues are active throughout the year. The center also sponsors a junior bowling league which meets Saturday mornings. Presently, there are about 230 junior members. Hours of operation for the center vary between summer and winter hours. Winter hours are: 11 a.m. to midnight, Sunday and Monday; 9 a.m. to midnight, Tuesday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 1 a.m., Friday; and 2 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday. Summer hours are: 11 a.m. to midnight, Sunday and Monday; 9 a.m. to midnight, Wednesday and Thursday; 9 a.m. to 1 a.m., Friday; and 11 a.m. to 1 a. m., Saturday.

Club 42 Expanding The Noncommissioned Officers Club offers musical entertainment to its members and guests on a weekly basis. A current membership card issued by Club 42 or a current membership card from a Noncommissioned Officers Club at any other base is necessary for admittance. Club 42 has dining facilities, ballroom, cocktail lounge, package store, casual lounge and a barber shop. Special parties can be arranged through the secretary custodian. Persons wearing T-shirts, shower clogs, sneakers, or bathing suits will not be permitted to enter the club. Acceptable standards of dress are slacks and sport shirt with shoes and socks. Female guests are permitted to wear slacks, hot pants, shorts and any styles in keeping with the styles of today. Blue jeans and levis are not permitted at any time. Officers' Club A cons truction project costing approximately $300,000, The Officers' Open Mess is a short walk from both the to be completed in 1972, will include expansion cf the Visiting Officers' Quarters and the Bachelor Officers' dining room and ballroom as well as the office area. Quarters. Recreation and entertainment for all club Folding wooden partitions will make it possible for two members and all transient officers is available. separate party rooms in the new ballroom. Buffet lunches are featured Monday through Friday Hours of operation are: while Sunday's special is a buffet dinner. Dining Room Dress standards for the club are strictly casual but no Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-1 p.m.; 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m. blue jeans, T-shirts or bare feet are allowed. Dues for Saturday 8 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Sunday, holidays 9 membership are $8 each month. a.m.-9:30 p.m. The main highlight of the year is the Moose Stomper's Package Store Ball which features a wild game dinner and wild life of all Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. sorts. Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-1 1 p.m. Hours of operation are: Main Bar Dining Room Monday-Thursday 5 p.m.-1 1:30 p.m. Friday 5 Monday-Thursday 5:30 p.m.-8:15 p.m. p.m.-1:30 a.m. Saturday 11 a.m.-1:30 a.m. Sunday Friday-Saturday 6 p.m.-8 p.m. 11 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Sunday 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Casual Bar Cocktail Lounge Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Friday 10 Monday-Thursday 5 p.m.-1 1:30 p.m. a.m.-1:30 a.m. Saturday 9 a.m.-1:30 a.m. Sunday, Friday 5 p.m.-1 a.m. holidays 9 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Saturday Noon-1 a.m. Sunday Noon-11:30 p.m. Package Store Monday-Friday Noon-9 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, holiday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Ski Slope The Ski Slope opens as soon as there is enough snow to cover the ground and offers instruction and recreation during the winter months. Located behind the NCO Housing Units, the course has a racing trail and a teaching and beginner's slope. A tow rope will pull you to the top. A one-year-old frame ski chalet provides complete rental equipment and has a fully stocked snack bar. It can be used for parties and group gatherings. Also on the ski slope premises is a 80 by 120 foot ice skating rink for those who prefer not to fall so far.

From Pomalift to T-Bar Beginning skiers as well as professionals will have little difficulty in finding a challenging slope in a state offering 53 courses. There are 24 ski-ways this side of Bangor ranging from Ski Area with a 2,600 foot vertical rise to Quoggy Joe Ski Area in Presque Isle with a not-so-high but enjoyable run. One national authority on the sport places one Maine development among the top four ski areas in the country. Maine skiers enjoy in average years a slightly longer season for their sport. Hills are not so crowded, nor the lift lines so long as in certain ot her eastern areas. Some of the more popular areas are listed: Mars Hill Ski Area in Mars Hill offers a Pomalift to the top of the 1,600 foot mountain with two long, winding trails for beginners, intermediates and experts. One of the larger ski runs is found in Skowhegan. The Eaton Mountain Ski Area is 5.5 miles east of the town. A double chair runs 2,100 feet to the summit. Nine intermediate to expert trails, night skiing and lodging are offered. Enchanted Mountain Ski Area is twelve miles south of Jackman. A double chair, 1,200 foot T-Bar with two open slopes and five trails for the novice as well as the expert are available. A 2,000 foot T-Bar and two rope tows are found at Hermon Mountain Ski Area in Hermon. A 2,000 foot slope, two 1,600 foot slopes, 2,500 foot trail and a three quarter mile trail can be found here. The Ski Area sports a 2,000 foot T-Bar with five trails to make this novice and intermediate area. A 4,600 foot and 1,400 foot chair lift and 3,000 foot T-Bar can be found at Saddleback Ski Area in Rangeley. Seventeen trails are offered for intermediates and experts. Overlooking Moosehead Lake in Greenville is Squaw Mountain. A 6,000 foot double chair and 3,000 foot T-Bar with 11 trails can be found here. Sugarloaf Ski Area in Sugarloaf has a 9,000 foot, four passenger gondola with 2,600 foot vertical rise to the summit. In addition, a 5,400 foot double chair and six T-Bars all combine to offer skiers 33 miles of trails. For those who want to go across the border for skiing fun, Edmundston offers a slope for intermediates and experts with a 1,200 foot T-Bar. 28

No Place In Particular Maine is full of no places. If you're looking for a lot of tourist traps and "See Rock City" signs turn around, they don't exist. A no plac e is no place in particular. It could be a wooden bridge over a once used logging road, the skeleton of a worm-worn barn or just a plain dandelion field. You might want to pause for a minute or stay for a day. No places are difficult to describe because most of them haven't even been discovered yet. Many states exhaust all forms of possible excitement making them "attractions." Finally, all the no places become extinct. In Maine, you can ride, walk or paddle for hours and feel like you're the only person on earth. Back rivers and streams are covered with no places and no things. Every railroad siding, brook or back road cries out to be discovered. The wonderfulness of a no place is that it belongs only to you. To you alone, a no place is your some place.

Snowmobiling in a Winter Playground From early December to late March the snow-covered fields, forests and lakes, once the silent domain of a few hardy hunters, ice fishermen and trappers, have become New England's biggest winter area playground. The key to unlocking Maine's 32,215 square mile treasure house of winter fun is the modern snowmobile. Snowmobiles will introduce you to a whole new world of winter excitement. They take you anywhere you want to go - from deep, wooded trails to open, rolling fields. Plenty of sun and wind put a rich golden winter tan on any paleface. The physical involvement in riding a snowmobile may be likened to a combination of skiing and horseback riding and provides an excellent substitute for golf and other summertime activities. Whatever your choice, a casual ride or an exciting chase over virgin trails - snowmobiling in Maine will prove that winter is truly a wonderland. Snowmobile owners can join the local Loring Snow Hawks who sponsor outings and competitions throughout the season. In addition, they enjoy the warmth of the golf course club house which is their winter headquarters.

A Golfer's Paradise

Golfing in the Great State of Maine offers an experience that cannot be repeated anywhere else. Ninety- three golf courses dot the Pine Tree State, all set in some of the most beautiful scenery in the East. Many courses border the coastline where booming breakers pound against the rock-bound coast created millions of years ago as the glaciers melted. Others are nestled in the foothills of towering mountains while still others are laid out over rolling hills dotted with clumps of pines and hardwoods. Maine now ranks fifth nationally in golf holes per capita, according to the latest national statistics. Several of the courses have been ranked with the most characterful in the nation. The Kebo Valley Club at Bar Harbor, the Aroostook Valley Country Club at Fort Fairfield, the Penobscot Valley Country Club at Orono and the York Golf and Tennis Club are all courses of championship length. Generally, Maine's golf courses are not overcrowded, nor have they adopted the trend toward excessive fees designed to lessen patronage. One of the most interesting holes is the first hole at the Aroostook Valley Country Club in Fort Fairfield, 12 miles southeast of Loring. Although the pro shop is in the United States, the course is actually laid out in neighboring New Brunswick, Canada, with the international boundary forming the out-of-bounds line. This means that if you shank a ball here, you literally drive it out of the country. The Excitement of the Hunt The crisp autumn air, the good companionship of fellow sportsmen and the excitement of hunting are an excellent tonic. Maine is proud of her hunting opportunities - not only for the white-tail deer, but also for many other game species which abound. Bear season gets underway June 1 and runs until the end of the year with hunters standing a fair chance of at least seeing one of the plentiful bruins. The next season begins October 1 for grouse, pheasant and rabbit. Deer season is much shorter, running from mid-October until November 27. Quick Water Canoeing Probably some who read this are experienced white water enthusiasts; others are just beginning to experiment with quick water canoeing - or perhaps only dreaming of the thrills - and spills. Maine has water suited for all: easy-going rips in which to practice the use of a setting-pole; fast moving streams for a lively test of maneuvering; longer runs for intermediate skills with both paddle and pole; pitches where you'll want to know how to lower the canoe by line; famous long, rugged camping-canoe trips through wilderness woodlands to try the ability and endurance of well-experienced canoeists and white-water that should be tackled only by teams of experts with careful preparation and scouting. In number and variety of canoeing waters, Maine has no equal in the eastern U.S. (or perhaps anywhere of comparable area): small ponds to large lakes, peaceful, meandering brooks; eager quick-water streams; turbulent torrents hurtling through white-water ravines; easy-going small rivers to strong sizable ones; and protected tidewaters meeting the sea. Caribou The town of Caribou, located approximately eight miles from Loring, is currently undergoing an Urban Renewal Program. This program, aimed to update the main business district, will cost in excess of two million dollars. Part of it will include a covered indoor shopping mall with 11 stores, 2 restaurants and a bank. Completion date on the renewal program is set for winter 1972. In addition to the new shopping mall, Caribou has a large variety of stores. These include two department stores, five general clothing stores plus four women's and two men's stores, four sport shops, three jewelry stores, three furniture stores, three automotive stores, two banks and many others. A shopping center which also has a variety of stores is located on the access highway. Several new additions will be made to this area during 1972. These include a cinema and pharmacy. A Holiday Inn is proposed for the Caribou area. The Inn will be sited south of Caribou on the access highway to Presque Isle. The Cary Memorial Hospital in Caribou is presently undergoing an expansion. The hospital is well equipped and staffed to handle most emergencies. In addition to being a fast-growing city, Caribou is one of the greatest potato growing and shipping centers of the world. Caribou is the gateway to Maine's Great Northern Woods and the renowned Allagash outdoor vacation area. I For the family which enjoys the out of doors, the Caribou area and Aroostook County offer some of the Presque Isle finest hunting and fishing in the country. Within a few Known as the Star City of the Northeast, Presque Isle, a miles travel in any direction of Caribou, you are sure to city of 13,000 people, is located 23 miles south of Loring. find cool, clear streams and lakes, ideal for the fisherman. Presque Isle used to be the home of Presque Isle Air Hiking is also a great summer pastime with many Force Base, which is no longer in existence. Loring does, adventurers taking the time to collect and examine the however, maintain housing here which is the home of 191 vast variety of rocks to be found in the area. families. The long white winter in northern Maine allows The main business district has many fine stores and snowmobile enthusiasts to enjoy this popular sport for restaurants to serve its people. Among these are: 5 many months. The annual Northern Maine Snowmobile department stores, 4 men's and women's clothing stores, Races are held here in March. Caribou has two 1 shoe store, 1 jewelry store, 7 radio and TV shops and snowmobile clubs sponsoring many winter outings and approximately 20 automotive sales and supply stores. scenic trips through the snowy forests. Presque Isle also has an 80-bed, 20-bassinet hospital Caribou maintains a full time Chamber of Commerce fully accredited. The hospital has several state and locally office and staff ready to assit all residents of the area. It is operated clinics and is planning an expansion program. The municipal airport is located at the Skyway Industrial located in The Hotel Caribou, Washburn Avenue. Loring families needing information or Better Business Bureau Park with three airlines providing service to Bangor, assistance are encouraged to call upon the Chamber of Portland and Boston. The area is enjoyed by the antique collectors and the Commerce. outdoor enthusiasts. There are several antique shops in the Presque Isle area offering a wide selection of items. For the outdoor type, there is the Aroostook State Park and Baxter State Park which offer camping and tenting sites. Presque Isle also hosts the Spudland Open Golf Tournament in late July and the Northern Maine Fair in August. Each February the city conducts a Fun Festival. This includes the Miss Presque Isle Beauty Pageant, a parade, snowmobile races, skiing and skating. The Chamber of Commerce is located at 324 Main Street and will be glad to help you make your stay in this area a happy one.

31

HISTORY OF THE 42D BOMB WING

LORING AIR FORCE BASE, MAINE

The 42d Bomb Wing was organized and activated January 15, 1941, at Fort Douglas, Salt Lake City, Utah. Designated a medium bombardment group, it consisted of a headquarters and the 75th, 76th, and 77th Bomb Squadrons. A fourth bomb squadron was attached. Like many pre-World War II units, the 42d spent its early days "hangar flying"--it had no aircraft. How- ever, in May it moved to Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho, and received six B-18 Bolo bombers for training. New, faster B-26 Marauder medium bombers replaced them in October 1941. They were the Group's mainstay for the next 17 months, when the crews flew coastal patrols from Washington, Oregon and California bases. During that time two bomb squadrons left the 42d to become part of an Alaska bomb group. Another went to the Caribbean where it flew antisubmarine missions. THE SOUTH PACIFIC WAR

The remaining 75th Bomb Squadron and a new unit, the 390th, flew patrols from many Pacific Coast bases. Combat lessons learned, the Group received new B-25 Billy Mitchell medium bombers and, March 28, 1943, flew past the Golden Gate, bound for the South Pacific. There the Group doubled its strength with addition of the 69th and 70th Bomb Squadrons. Up to "fighting weight" by June 1943, the 42d Bombardment Group (Medium) entered combat attacking enemy airfields, gun positions and shipping in the central Solomons. The next 30 months were a catalog of Pacific Campaigns: Guadalcanal, China Defensive, New Guinea, Northern and Southern Solomons, Bismarck Archipelago, Leyte, Luzon, the Southern Philippines and China Offensive. A fifth squadron augmented the 42d during most of 1944-1945. The Group earned the Distinguished Unit Citation for supporting the Australian attack on the Japanese oil refinery at Balikpapen, Borneo, June 23-30, 1945. When the war ended the Group ferried men and materiel to Manila for staging to the United States. Two squadrons were inactivated in the Philippines. In January 1946 the Group moved to Itami, Japan. May 4 the Group and its three remaining squadrons were also inactivated. CONSTRUCTION, REACTIVATION AND TRANSITION

Immediately after its formation March 21, 1946, Strategic Air Command began planning a force that could strike any target. Part of that plan called for a base at the northeastern tip of the country-- Limestone, Maine. As the base had to be carved from virgin forest, the job took seven years. In June 1950 the first Air Force unit replaced the Army Corps of Engineers at the site. Work completed, February 25, 1953, saw the 42d Bombardment Wing (Heavy) and its historic squadrons -- the 69th, 70th and 75th--activated at Limestone Air Force Base as part of Strategic Air Command. Three months later the first B-36 Peacemaker bombers arrived. Limestone Air Force Base was renamed Loring October 1, 1954, in honor of Major Charles J. Loring Jr., a Portland, Maine, native. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his gallantry during the November 22, 1952, fighter-bomber mission in Korea which cost him his life. Since 1953 the 42d Bomb Wing has become stronger. In June 1956 its first B-52 Stratofortress arrived. Con- version to "G" model B-52s began in May 1959. With strength came streamlining and diversification. The bomber force was trimmed to one squadron with movement of the 75th in 1959 and 70th in 1966. In January 1955 the 42d Air Refueling Squadron was activated. KC-135 Stratotankers replaced its propeller-driven KC-97s in October 1957. The tanker fleet doubled with arrival of the 407th Air Refueling Squadron in July 1968.

A STRONG PRESENT FOR A SECURE FUTURE

During its history the Wing has been chosen for many honors, and it has earned many others. In November 1956 four of its B-52s flew nonstop to the North Pole and then around North America's perimeter to test the bomber's effectiveness. One year later six Wing B-52s flew a good will mission to Buenos Aires, Argentina. The 42d was the first SAC wing to organize a First Term Airmen's Council-- January 1969 -- and the first to certify WAF force status controllers, six months later. Well-performed missions, exercises and inspections have earned the Wing many "outstanding", "excellent" and "best" awards. Today the 42d Bomb Wing is truly a potent force. The freedom which inspired the Wing's motto in World War II--"Aethera Nobis" (The Skies for Us)--still moves its men in defense of the nation.