SpringSpring 20022004 Taken in the early 70’s during a visit by Maj. Gen. Robert Ginsburg, then director of Information, to Eglin, nine of the 12 people are, or were Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Association members and will be attending the annual meeting there 30 years later. Shown ( left to right) are: Steve Fisher, Neil Buttimer, Dick Rapp (a Lifetime Founder who died a couple of years ago), Karen Miller, Ralph Francis (partial), John Gulick, General Ginsburg , Tom Halbert, Iris Galen, Larry McCracken, Walt Werner and Joe Purka. Former SECAF, Gulf War air commander, special ops wing leader address members in Florida A former Secretary of the Air Florida. Reed will discuss an insider’s history Force, the commander of the air campaign Former Secretary of the Air Force of the cold war. during the first Gulf War and the com- Thomas C. Reed, retired Gen. Chuck Horner will offer his insights into mander of an Air Force Reserve special Horner and Brig. Gen. Thomas M. the first and second desert wars. operations wing are among the people Stogsdill, commander of the 919th SOW, Stogsdill will discuss, within secu- scheduled to address members of the Air are scheduled to address the group Satur- rity restraints, his reserve unit’s participa- Force Public Affairs Alumni Association day morning. tion in Afghanistan and Iraq. during their 11th annual meeting Thurs- “With Secretary Reed and Gener- “We have an outstanding commit- day, Apr. 29 through Sunday, May 2. als Horner and Stogsdill, we may have one tee with members ready to step forward The event will be held at The Vil- of the most interesting and enlightening and take up various duties,” Purka said. lage of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin, and Saturday morning sessions ever,” said Joe “Jim Hart, Walt Werner, Michele Bell, Bill at Eglin and Hurlburt AFBs in northwest Purka, this year’s annual meeting organizer. Continued on Page 4 11th annual AFPAAA meeting at a glance...... • Thursday, Apr. 29 through Sunday, $130 per night (plus tax). Hotel reservations Brig. Gen. Thomas M. Stogsdill, commander May 2, 2004. made directly with Sandestin Group Reserva- of the 919th Special Operations Wing. tions by faxing the Housing Request Form (see • HOW TO GET THERE- Airline • Advance registration fees — $145 Page 7 or download from www.afpaaa.org) to: (850) service via Delta, Northwest and US Air is for members and $125 for spouses/guests. 267-8221. available at the Fort Walton Beach-Okaloosa Completed registration forms (see page six), • Guest speakers Saturday morning in- County Regional Airport (code: VPS). Taxis payment and dinner selection mailed by Apr. clude former Secretary of the Air Force Tho- and all major rental car agencies are avail- 10. mas C. Reed, retired Gen. Chuck Horner and able at the airport. • The Sandestin Resort group rate of 2 Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Association The Link: Bomber pilot becomes PA

by Chuck Lucas Momyer. Boone Rose flew 51 combat mis- “He wanted to talk to me about sions over Europe in B-26 and B-17 air- my next assignment.” craft during World War II and eagerly Momyer was the TAC commander returned to Kentucky. at Langley AFB, Va., in 1970 and he He earned a bachelor’s degree in wanted Rose to be the PA deputy to Col. Agriculture at the University of Ken- Bill Edgar. A year later Rose was the di- tucky in 1948 before enrolling in the rector. Merrill Lynch Brokerage School in New “I didn’t want to step right in like York. I knew what the hell I was doing. I didn’t The Air Force and Public Affairs even know what I was doing when were furthest from his mind. (Edgar left). “Having experienced 315 combat “I had to get along with people and hours, I felt, there’s no future in getting know how not to take advantage but lis- shot at,.” said Rose. ten to some of these young ideas and Merrill Lynch considered Rose a some of these bright people that I had “fast burner” and quickly placed him in working with me.” Louisville. Rose said when Momyer retired “I was doing absolutely great!” and Gen. Robert Dixon came on board, In 1950 he accepted an offer to the tension was tight. take charge of the company’s Southeast Boone Rose “I had won so many battles for the Division of Spot Commodities in At- – super golfer too.” Public Affairs guys and General Momyer, lanta. In 1967 he was in Vietnam, 23 always, was right there. Absolutely, in his But, before he was able to effect years after his last overseas assignment. eyes, I don’t think I ever did anything the move, his Air Force Reserve com- He split his tour as exec to the Tactical wrong.” mission earned him an offer he couldn’t Air Control Center for 7th Air Force and Rose found General Dixon a dif- refuse. The Korean War necessitated his exec to Gen. William Momyer, 7th AF ferent breed. recall to instruct B-29 aircrews. commander. He describes the latter as- “He required more of an adjust- “It was supposed to be for 12 signment as “the best learning opportu- ment than anyone I’ve ever had to ad- months and I was real bitter.” nity experience of my Air Force career.” just to in my life, but I would have to say The recall was extended to 21 Rose returned from Vietnam as a that except for the way he went about months and Rose was scheduled to check new colonel with an assignment to Bos- things, he was a crackerjack.” out in the A-26 for combat duty. Instead, ton University to get a master’s degree After four years at TAC, Rose he accepted a regular commission and in Public Relations. came up for reassignment. checked out in KC-97s. “They said that I was an experi- “General Dixon mentioned it to It turned out to be a career deci- ment…20 years after my undergraduate me. ‘I understand that General Momyer sion. He notified Merrill Lynch he was degree in Agriculture…Now I’m going promised you a base commander’s job.’ going to give the Air Force another shot. into a field with smart kids, smart young “I said, well, yes sir.” A series of SAC flying assignments guys and gals that have been training in He said, ‘Myrtle Beach?’ “Yes sir. followed and in 1963 he found himself Public Affairs from right out of high And he says, ‘Well, I’ll certainly honor as special projects officer for the com- school or college.” that.’ mander of 2nd Air Force at Barksdale Rose sought an exemption from “He was a very warm person.” AFB, La. General Momyer. Colonel Rose retired from active Protocol was an additional duty. “I could get you off the school duty in 1975. He and his wife, Dorothy, “I didn’t even know how to spell list,” Momyer told him, “but I think reside in Melbourne, Fla. protocol.” It was also his introduction you’d be making a mistake. Anytime you to Public Affairs. can further your education, you really This column is a feature on stories from the Air Col. Nick Barley was PA director should take advantage of it.” Force Public Affairs Alumni Assoc-iation’s Oral for 2nd AF. Rose was already earmarked for History program. The author can be reached at: clucas5@ juno.com “A rated officer, he was a great guy SAFOI when he received a note from Spring 2004 3 PA Snoopings…......

by The Snoop motion to Colonel! Please join The Clark Air Base Scrap- me in congratulating Audrey book http://zcap.freeyellow.com/ In case you missed it, solid Bahler, chief of Public Affairs in pix3.htm is a unique tribute to the article entitled “The War In the Office of the Air Force Re- former base and those who served Primetime” in the February 2004 serve in the Pentagon, and Stevi there over the years. issue of Military Officer as pub- Shapiro, Director of Public Af- The Scrapbook was created lished by the Military Officers As- fairs at Space and Missile Systems by Air Force Public Affairs Alumni sociation of America, formerly Center, Los Angeles AFB, CA . Association member Thomas Utts, TROA. who was assigned to the 13th Air For you youngsters, that’s the Either he just couldn’t get the Force Public Affairs office from organization Chuck Cooper beltway out of his briefcase or he 1971 to 1973. served for more than 10 years as wanted to be closer to his golfing The website is part of his editor of The Retired Officers buddies, but Art Forster is back Clark Air Base military project Magazine and Director of Pub- in the Washington D.C. area. which also includes a nonfiction lications before retiring in 1996. After seven years in down- book with oral history accounts Staff editor Tiffany Ayers did town Manhattan with Hill and which is still in work. an extremely credible job in dis- Knowlton, Art has been named The website has 37 separate cussing the embedding journalist Director of Congressional and webpages, each with numerous concept. At the outset, she quickly Public Affairs for the Defense photographs sent by people who points out that military officials Contract Management Agency were stationed there. and reporters agree that the em- in Alexandria, Va. DCMA is a joint It is arranged in chronologi- bedding program that stationed service combat support agency cal order covering most of the more than 600 reporters with mili- with approximately 11,000 civilians base’s 90 year history. Starting with tary forces in and around Iraq and military professionals in the photos from 1910 during the early “…was a success and served to U.S. and 26 other countries. years as a U.S. Army cavalry base, improve the relationship between The Snoop knows that Art to the post-WWII recovery when the military and the media.” will once again excel as he did dur- it became Clark Air Base, to exten- Former PA Chief Brig Gen ing his distinguished 29 year Air sive coverage of the eruption of Ron Rand agrees. Force PA career. Mount Pinatubo. “I think it was absolutely the Look for Art and his lovely There are also two page of right thing to do given the instan- wife Janet to set up in their new pictures from 2000 and 2001 taneous global information envi- DC area digs by the middle of the showing the base as it is today. ronment we live in,” he told the year. You can drop him a line at Utts, who lives in San Diego, magazine. “It served to advance [email protected]. is also the author of KOREA the relationship (between the mili- BLUE, a military thriller published tary and the media) not in baby Please join me in welcoming by Signet Books steps but in a fairly large step.” new members Michael Braibish, The Snoop recommends you John M.Donlon, Chuck Fowler, Newsworthy items of inter- take another large step and check Joan C. Fudala, Debra Millett,, est may be sent to “The PA out the article at www.moaa.org. Kevin L. Reinert, and Oscar P. Snoop” in care of Al Eakle, edi- Seara. tor, at [email protected]. Two members of our asso- ciation have been selected for pro- 4 Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Association

Meeting/Reunion Agenda Check-in starts Apr. 29 Continued from Page 1 Thursday, April 29 Campbell, Annette Morning Crawford... each one Options require Apr. 28 arrival has volunteered to take Golf or Fishing (charter 4-6 passengers) on major responsibili- Afternoon ties to ensure this is Noon-8:00 p.m. - Check-in The Grand Sandestin lobby. AFPAAA desk one of the very best of adjacent to hotel reception the association’s annual Evening meetings.” 5:00 p.m. - Ice Breaker, Lobby Lounge, Grand Sandestin Arrival, check-in and registration will be Apr. 29 in the 8:00 p.m. - Open lobby of the Grand Sandestin from noon to 8 p.m. Options: - Nine restaurants in villag; - Sunset Sail ($40) individual arrangement “The always popular no-host ice breaker will be in the lobby bar,” said Purka. Friday, April 30 Friday’s visit to Eglin and Hurlburt AFBs includes the Morning Air Force Materiel Command’s Air Armament Center, and the th 8:15 a.m. - Depart for Eglin AFB Special Operations Command’s 16 Special Operations Wing. 9:00 a.m. - Arrive Eglin Conference Center (Air Armament Center overview) The Air Armament Center commander and several other Eglin 9:45 a.m. - Group 1depart for King Hangar, Group 2 depart for Taconi staff will join us for the President’s Luncheon at the Eglin Of- Center ficers Club overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay. 10:00 a.m.-Group 1- AAC weapons display; Group 2- Future weapons AFPAAA members will get to view some of the Air Force’s briefing newest bombs, rockets and guns under development and test at 10:45 a.m.- Groups swap locations 11:00 a.m.- Group 2- AAC weapons display; Group 1- Future weapons Eglin, and the newest aircraft in the Special Operations Com- briefing mand inventory, including AC-130-U “Spooky,” Pave Low and 11:45 a.m. Travel to Officers Club Combat Talon. 11:55 a.m. Group photo As an added attraction, the Hurlburt Air Park will offer a Afternoon nostalgic walk through time for many, with displays of the AC- 12:00 p.m.- President’s Luncheon, Eglin Officers Club. SPONSOR: 47, the original “Spooky” gunship, AC-119 “Shadow,” Vietnam Lockheed Martin 12:05 p.m. Welcome-Air Armament Center commander era FAC aircraft such as the O-1, O-2 and OV-10, A-1E Skyraider 1:00 p.m. - Depart for Hurlburt Field and many more. Plans are to have several of Hurlburt’s histori- 1:30 p.m. -AFSOC static displays ( AC-130U, Pave Low, Combat Talon) ans provide a walking narrative through the air park. 2:30 p.m. -View Hurlburt Air Park Saturday morning’s events will begin at 8:30 a.m. in the 4:00 p.m. - Depart for Hotel 5:00 p.m.- Arrive Village of Baytowne Wharf Azalea Suite of conference rooms on the second floor of The Evening Baytowne Conference Center, adjacent to The Grand Sandestin. Open- Options: - Sunset Sail ($25) - Island Belle Sunset Bay ($35) The Director’s Luncheon and Annual Meeting will be held in the same location. Saturday, May 1 The Director’s Luncheon is sponsored by Raytheon, and Morning will feature Brig. Gen. Frederick Roggero, director of SAF/PA 8:00 a.m. Continental breakfast available The annual reception will be held in the second floor lobby 8:30 a.m. BGen. Thomas M. Stogsdill of the Baytowne Conference Center and the banquet in Azalea Commander, 919th Special Operations Wing suite. Menu selections include Filet Mignon with Truffle Sauce 9:15 a.m. - Former Secretary of the Air Force Thomas C. Reed 10:15 a.m. - Break and Chicken stuffed with Wild Mushroom Ragout, accompa- 10:30 a.m. - TBD nied by salad, rolls, butter, dessert, coffee, tea, and wine. 11:00 a.m.- Retired Gen. Chuck Horner Saturday evening’s dinner music and entertainment will Afternoon feature an ensemble led by Ray Brown, a member of the 12:15 p.m. - Director’s Luncheon, Azalea 3 original Four Freshmen. BGen. Frederick F. Roggero, SAF/PA SPONSOR: The Raytheon Company The Boeing Company is sponsoring the annual banquet 1:30 p.m. - Annual Meeting, Azalea 1 & 2 on Saturday evening. Evening “ I believe this is the first time we have a corporate 6:00 p.m. - Annual Reception, Lobby 2nd Flr sponsor for that event and we are very appreciative of The 6:30 p.m. - Annual Banquet, Azalea 2 & 3 Boeing Company’s generosity in support of AFPAAA,” Purka SPONSOR: The Boeing Company said. Sunday, May 2 Departures Optional: Golf or fishing Spring 2004 5 New gathering place hosts meeting attendees

The Village of Baytowne Wharf is the new gathering place for anyone visit- ing, working or living along Florida’s Em- erald Coast. In addition to the new “Grand Sandestin” hotel and The Baytowne Con- ference Center, the village boasts other lodging facilities, charming shops and boutiques, a variety of restaurants, night- clubs and bars – all within easy walking distance. The Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Association’s group rate of $130 per night (plus tax) includes complimen- tary bikes, health club usage, one hour per day of tennis court time (based on avail- ability) and one hour per day usage of either a canoe, kayak or boogie board. The Sandestin Resort also boasts four award-winning golf courses, sunset and evening cruises on a 60-foot custom- ized motor yacht or a 70-foot sloop, the Links and Baytowne courses are Ivy Tea Room. This authentic Southern parasailing, wave runner and either half- $89.00, while the fees for the 6,900 yard, tea room includes a charming gift empo- or full-day pontoon boat rentals. par 71 Raven course is $109 and the 7,000 rium filled with Victorian-themed mer- For those wishing to arrive early or yard Burnt Pine course is $129. Mem- chandise, antiques, tea cups, tea pots, ac- stay later to take advantage of the beaches, bers can arrange their own foursomes, but coutrements, books and stationery, and, golf, fishing or water sports, the group reservations and advance payment is of course, a full selection of gourmet rate will be available for three days prior strongly recommended. loose-leaf teas. Reservations and advance and three days following the official meet- For the anglers in the group, tenta- payment of $30 are required to schedule ing dates. tive arrangements are being made for full- this event. For golfers, green and cart fees for or half-day fishing trips on Thursday or Advance registration fees are the Sunday, depending on the number of same as last year — $145 for members How to get there members interested. and $125 for spouses/guests. (See registra- Airline service via Delta, North- Optional activities available on ei- tion form on Page 6 or download from west and US Air is available at the Fort ther Thursday or Friday evenings include www.afpaaa.org). Completed registration Walton Beach-Okaloosa County Re- a moonlight cruise aboard the Jennifer forms, payment and dinner selection gional Airport (code: VPS). Marie, a 70-foot gaf rig schooner, or a sun- should be mailed to Linda Arnold, Attn: Taxis and all major rental car set cruise aboard the Island Belle, a fully AFPAAA, 1831 Parhaven Drive, San An- agencies are available at the airport. air-conditioned 60-foot custom motor tonio, TX 78232 not later than Apr. 10, Turn right out of the airport yacht. A minimum of 35 people are re- 2004. onto Rte. 85 to Niceville, then left on quired for a 1 ½ hour moonlight cruise Payment for optional events, such Rte.20, and follow signs to the Mid- on the Jennifer Marie and 45 people are re- as golf, sailing, fishing or high tea should Bay Bridge (toll). Approximately one quired for a 2 ½ hour sunset cruise on also be included. In some cases the costs mile past the bridge, turn left onto US the Island Belle. The costs are $25 and $35 may vary slightly, depending on the num- Hwy 98(east) to Sandestin. The en- per person respectively, based on the mini- ber of members participating. Golf fees trance is on your left, opposite a large mums listed. will vary as indicated above, depending on water tower on the right. Travel For interested spouses and those availability of tee times and course se- approx.18-20 miles, 35 minutes. preferring a slower pace, the nation’s larg- lected. Alternate airline service is avail- est designer outlet center is located just Hotel reservations should be made able in Panama City (code: PFN). Take minutes from The Village of Baytowne directly with Sandestin Group Reserva- US Hwy 98(west) to Sandestin. En- Wharf. The Silver Sands Factory Stores tions by faxing the Housing Request Form trance will be on your right. (Travel offer more than 100 designer-name stores. (see Page 7 or download from www.afpaaa.org) approx. 46-48 miles, 1 hour). Another Friday option is a 1:30 p.m. Faxes are preferred, however they formal “High Tea” at the Magnolia and can also be mailed. 6 Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Association

ELEVENTH ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Sandestin, Florida April 29 – May 2, 2004

Headquarters for AFPAAA’s Eleventh Annual Membership Meeting is The Village at Baytowne Wharf, located in Sandestin on Florida’s northwest Emerald Coast. A group rate of $130 plus tax per night is available. Rates include complimentary bikes and health club usage, and one hour per day of tennis court, canoe or kayak. See our website www.afpaaa.org for details. Advance registration fee for the annual meeting is $145 for members and $125 for a spouse or guest. Registration fee includes two lunches, gala reception and banquet, memento and registration package. Appropriate casual attire is the dress for all daytime activities; coat and tie please for the Saturday reception and banquet.

Name:______Phone: ______Address:______City, State, Zip:______E-mail address:______Name(s) of guest(s) accompanying you: ______Do you or your guests have any physical handicaps or special dietary needs? If yes, please specify:

Saturday Night Annual Reception and Banquet Meal Choice: ______Beef ____ Chicken

Preferred name on nametag (s):

EVENT COST NUMBER LINE TOTAL Member Registration (all meeting events) $145 ______Non-Member Registration (all meeting events) $175 ______Guest Registration (all meeting events) $125 ______

Single Event Registrations Only: (Note: These events ARE included in registration fees) President’s Luncheon (Fri, Apr. 30) $12 ______Director’s Luncheon (Sat, May 1) $35 ______Annual Reception & Banquet (Sat, May 1) $75 ______

Optional Events: (Note: These events ARE NOT included in the registration fees) High Tea at Magnolia & Ivy (1:30 p.m. Fri) $30 ______Golf (Thursday or Sunday) $89/109/129 ______Half-day fishing (Thursday or Sunday) $120 ______Pick-A-Cruise (pick one, 35-45 people required) Moonlight Cruise (1 hr sail) or $25 ______Island Belle (2 hr cruise w/beer & wine) $35 ______

TOTAL ENCLOSED: (Make check payable to AFPAAA) ______Mail completed form & check to: Linda Arnold, ATTN: AFPAAA 1831 Parhaven Dr San Antonio TX 78232 Spring 2004 7

AIR FORCE PUBLIC AFFAIRS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE Thursday, April 29 - Sunday, May 2, 2004 GROUP CODE: 425680 HOUSING REQUEST FORM

Please print legibly and fax to: Sandestin Group Reservations Fax: (850) 267-8221 or Call (800) 320-8115. Faxes are preferred, however, you can mail form to: Sandestin Group Reservations, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Sandestin, FL 32550

Name ______Number in Party: Adults ______Children ______Company Name ______Business Phone ______Address ______

City ______

State ______Zip ______E-Mail ______

Sharing With ______

Arrival Day/Date ______

Departure Day/Date______

Please select method of payment: Credit Card #______Exp. Date ______Signature______

Check # _____

Your cut-off date for reservations is March 15, 2004, after which rooms will be sold on a space-available basis.

ACCOMMODATIONS AND RATES

A deposit of two night’s room and tax is required to secure rooms. All rates are subject to 10% tax. ACCOMMODATIONS DAILY RATE VILLAGE HOTEL ROOM $130.00

All rates quoted DO NOT include 7% sales tax and 3% bed tax. Rates for accommodations will vary depending on occupancy and type of accommodations.

Any other type of accommodation besides what is in your block will vary in cost depending on location and occupancy. Deposits are refundable in the event of individual room cancellations, provided notice is received by Sandestin 14 days prior to scheduled arrival date. 8 Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Association Association members can help the troops by giving a pint of blood at donor centers Many people, including members of costs. When the ASBP cannot collect are no longer eligible to donate blood. the Air Force Public Affairs Alumni As- enough blood, the military must purchase Most healthy adults are eligible to sociation, have wondered how they can products from civilian agencies, such as give blood. However, there are some rea- help the troops at home, overseas and in the Red Cross (assuming that blood is sons a person may be deferred from do- harms way. Help can come by simply roll- available for purchase). The average cost nating — temporarily or permanently. ing up a sleeve and giving blood. of blood from outside sources is about Though many people who were sta- The Armed Services Blood Pro- $250 per unit. tioned in Europe must now be deferred, gram was developed to provide blood Individuals can donate blood every many others who served in this area may products and services to our military com- 56 days (eight weeks). The entire process still be eligible. Being in Europe during munity worldwide in peacetime and war. takes approximately one hour. Each unit specific years and for extended lengths There are more than 20 ASBP blood do- donated will be tested for infectious dis- of time are the main things to consider nor centers in the United States. ease and then separated into red blood when evaluating whether or not people Blood must be collected constantly cells, platelets, and plasma. One donation are eligible to donate. Potential donors will to replace aging contingency supplies and can help up to three people! be deferred if they have: also to meet the peacetime and wartime Policies now in effect dramatically · Traveled or resided in the United needs of the military health system, ac- decrease the possibility of transmitting the Kingdom from 1980 through 1996 for a cording to ASBP officials. human form of Mad Cow Disease cumulative period of three months or While blood is given freely by mili- through blood products. As a result of this more. tary donors, the processing, storage and policy, people who have lived or traveled transportation of blood carries significant extensively in Europe and the Near East Continued on Page 11 AFPAAA novelist tackles tough subject of parental aging Like most folks, retired Air Force He knew that training a large percentage of the staff, he Col. Mike Wallace thought his parents much of what he saw the Dome through its first full year would live forever. learned was worth of operation. Barring that, they would cooperate sharing with other Mike then moved to Fort Collins, and live in good health until the very mo- families who might Co., where he assisted his son in the open- ment they passed quietly into the night. face similar situations ing of a craft beer brewery. He then spent There would be no loose ends. someday, but be- four years teaching three different jour- There would be no need for intermediate lieved that fiction nalism courses at the University of North- care or nursing homes. was the best route. ern Colorado in Greeley. In short, there would be no tough Mike Wallace “Quite frankly, Mike and his wife, Karen, now live decisions to make. people prefer not to in Las Vegas. But like most folks, he was wrong read about subjects they don’t like to think Remington Hills provides a “That cold, rainy day I moved my about and elder-care seems to head the memorable read about family ties and parents into an assisted living facility list,” Wallace says. compassion…heartache and tough against their will was perhaps the worst “Therefore, I felt I’d come closer decisions…courage and triumph. It can of my life,” explains the author of to capturing a reader’s attention if I could help readers better prepare for the day Remington Hills, a newly-published wrap my thoughts within the more enter- when they, too, might begin to recognize novel that chronicles his gut-wrenching taining and forgiving embrace of fiction. certain “signs” and know that it’s time to experiences. “Whereas most of the book’s char- become the parents to their parents. “As it turned out, it was a smart acters and incidents are based on compos- Remington Hills is a print-on-de- move because they needed the help. But ites, my main protagonist, Will Brister, is mand offering that can be ordered on-line hardly a day passed during those first few the personification of my late father.” through Amazon.com, at most any major weeks when I wasn’t overwhelmed with Mike entered the Air Force in l962 bookstore (Barnes & Noble, Books-a-Mil- guilt.” and retired in l992, following his last as- lion, etc.), or directly from its publisher, Mike spent months observing daily signment as Director of Public Affairs at iUniverse. life in his parents’ place. Along the way, the Air Force Academy. To order from iUniverse, call 1-877- he learned a great deal about the elder- He then spent two years in San An- 288-4737, or visit www.iUniverse.com. care industry, the people who run such tonio, Tex., helping to open the newly- ISBN: 0-595-29482-0Price: $24.95 U.S. facilities, the seniors who live in them and constructed Alamodome. After hiring and — $33.95 Canada — $20.99 U.K. the problems facing management. Spring 2004 9 Lord guide and protect...... EDITOR’S NOTE: Obituaries are pub- He was born June, 1941, in Tulsa, Okla- and the Defense Department over the Quality lished in the Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Asso- homa. Harry moved to Wichita, Kansas, at a vs. Quantity issues of the early 1980s, a suc- ciation newsletter when they are received. Members who young age and attended schools there. cess for which he was awarded the Meritorious know of the death of an Air Force public affairs, broad- He met his wife, Carol Jane Regier in Service Medal. casting or bandsman professional are asked to forward Wichita. The couple married there on June 22, His final Air Force assignment was as obituaries to the newsletter editor at: [email protected] 1963. the director of public affairs at the Eastern . He graduated from the Wichita State Space and Missile Center, Patrick AFB, Fla., a Lt.Col. William C. Anderson University ROTC Program in 1966 and entered position that thrust him onto the national stage The Air Force Public Affairs Alumni the Air Force as a second lieutenant. He re- as the Air Force’s key spokesman following the Association received word that retired Lt. Col. tired from the Air Force as a lieutenant colo- explosion of the space shuttle Challenger. William C. Anderson of Fairfield, Calif., died nel following 20 years of service. His last as- Among his many decorations are the in 2003 He retired from the Air Force in 1964. signment was as the chief of SAF/PA’s Chi- Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Viet- No other details were available at press time. cago office. nam Service Medal, and the Humanitarian Ser- He operated his own public relations vice Medal. company, Sunderland and Company, in Chicago Following his retirement from the Air CMSgt. Percy Brown Jr. for many years. Force in 1987, Nicholson entered civilian life Retired CMSgt. Percy Brown Jr., 81, In 1996 he and his wife retired to Wolf at Redgate Technology, a small dot com where of Ewa Beach, formerly of Connecticut, died Creek, Mont., where they lived until moving to he spearheaded marketing, communications July 9, 2003 in St. Francis-West Medical Cen- Great Falls in April 2003. and public affairs. ter. He was active in church activities, the Shortly thereafter Redgate became one He was born in Connecticut. Boy Scouts, BMX racing and the Wolf Creek of the first companies acquired by America He entered the military in January 1942 Volunteer Fire Dept. He also was an adjunct Online, which was just starting its run toward and retired in 1973. professor at Carroll College in Helena. becoming a world powerhouse in Internet com- He is survived by sons David W., Lance Harry enjoyed hunting and fishing, play- munications. He retired from AOL in 1999 and A., Richard L., Brady Brown and Edward T. and ing his trumpet, good movies, a good game of turned his efforts toward volunteer public ser- Mark D. Harrison; daughter Patricia D. Mindas; poker, and hanging out with family and friends. vice. sister Mae Riley; seven grandchildren; and a He and Carol had two sons and. a daugh- From 1996 until his death, Bob served great-grandchild. ter plus eight grandchildren. on the “Sandlot Gang” as a key volunteer for Habitat for Humanity of Northern Virginia. Arthur Hicks Col. Jim Sunderman A skilled builder, his leadership abilities, sense of humor, concern for his fellow human Arthur Byron Hicks, 90, died Feb. 15 Retired Col. Jim Sunderman died in beings, and sensitivity made him a highly suc- in Melbourne, Fla. 2003 from heart attack, reports member Bill cessful crew and home construction leader. He Born April 29, 1913 in Atlanta, Ga., Frensley. No obituary was available at press Arthur first came to Brevard County in 1963 supervised the building of several Habitat time. follow ing his retirement from the U.S. Air homes in the Northern Virginia area. Force. In both 2002 and 2003, Habitat for Hu- Lt. Col. Robert W. “Bob” He entered military service in July 1942 manity honored Bob for his contributions to in the Army Air Corps and had tours of duty Nicholson, Jr. the community. in Texas, Florida, the Philippines and Japan. He Retired Lt. Col. Robert W. “Bob” Interment with full military honors was received the Air Force Commendation Medal, Nicholson, Jr. died on January 31 in Arling- at Arlington National Cemetery on Feb. 23. American Campaign Medal, World War II Vic- ton, VA after a battle with lung cancer. He Survivors include his wife, Mary Eliza- tory Medal, and the United Nations Service served as a public affairs officer in the Air Force beth “Beth” Nicholson; his father and step- Medal. from 1965 to 1987. mother; his son; his daughter and son-in-law; a Art then began a second career with the Bob, who was born in 1943 at granddaughter; and five siblings. Air Force and served as Deputy Chief of Pub- Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, lic Affairs for the Air Force Eastern Test Range D.C., grew up in Philadelphia, PA and gradu- SMSgt. Robert A. Young Sr. at Patrick AFB, Fla., before retiring from the ated from St. Joseph’s University with an un- Retired SMSgt. Robert A. Young Sr., civil service in 1980. He was crucial in creating dergraduate degree in English in 1965. He later 72, of Tampa. Fla., passed away Jan. 17, 2003. the AF Space Museum at Kennedy Space Cen- took a master’s degree in journalism at Boston He was born in Lowell, Mass. and served ter back in the mid 60s and served on the Space University and was a graduate of the Air Com- in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean and Museums Advisory Board. mand and Staff College and the Air War Col- Vietnam Wars. Many may remember Bob from He is survived by his wife of 60 years, lege. his assignment with the 86th Tactical Fighter Sara Virginia; three children, eight grandchil- During his long and distinguished Air Wing Information Office at Ramstein AB, Ger- dren and four great-grandchildren. Force career, Bob served in Oklahoma, Thai- many. His final assignment was at MacDill AFB, Donations may be made in his memory land, Virginia, Spain, New York City, the Pen- Fla., where he retired in 1978. to the Salvation Army. tagon, and Florida. He was a member of the American Le- While at the Pentagon, he achieved dis- gion Post 139 and VFW Post 4321. Lt. Col. Harry R. Sunderland tinction as an advisor to senior Air Force lead- He is survived by his son, five daugh- ers during the hot debates between Congress Retired Lt. Col. Harry Robert ters, a sister, and ten grandchildren. Sunderland died Jan. 22, 2004. 10 Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Association The President’s Pen...... I recently read an article in a pro- are directly in- members and founders for their wisdom fessional magazine that pointed out that volved in the op- in setting up the organization to succeed. nearly 55% of the private organizations eration of the or- We should also thank each member founded in the US each year fail after three ganization. who has provided support in terms of years. The author then presented five rea- (5). The or- leadership, support in programming, or sons for why the minority succeeded. ganization must be donated money – because they continue As we in AFPAAA celebrate our able to deliver on to build on what was originally provided. 11th anniversary as an organization I think all its stated pro- I am proud to be a part of such a Air Force Public there is something to be learned from Affairs Alumni grams. dynamic organization – as I hope you are. these five reasons. President Mike I believe Thanks to all of you for your continued (1). The organization has to be rel- Gannon can be that any objective support of AFPAAA. evant to the membership. reached via email at review of See you in Sandestin! MGannon @ (2). There must be good leadership afpaaa.org AFPAAA would from the first day. determine that we, Sincerely (3). There must be adequate finan- as an organization, Mike cial support provided. have met or exceed each of these criteria. Mike Gannon (4). The membership has to feel they We should all thank the original From the Chairman of the Board...... Dear Friends ment Fund is for all of us and needs to be I hope by now you have all registered built by all of us. for this year’s annual meeting in Destin, Association There is no ideal pledge, there is no Chairman of the Florida. Carolyn and I look forward to see- donation too small, there is certainly no do- Board David Smith ing you. nation too large, but every donation is tax can be reached at: deductible. Sometimes we don’t communicate dsmith@ afpaaa.org with you enough about what our association The AFPAAA was designated by the is doing for the membership and for Air Internal Revenue Service exempt from Fed- Force Public Affairs. Here is a sampling. eral Income Tax under section 501a of the You should have all received your 2004 Internal Revenue Code based on the fact that AFPAAA Membership Directory. at least 75 percent of our members are past Corporate sponsors and individual The fact that you are reading this in or present members of the Armed Forces members donate door prizes at the annual the newsletter is another part of this of the United States as defined under sec- meeting. association’s product. tion 501(c) (19) of the Code. We are very grateful to all our spon- Every Air Force graduate from De- If you would like to join us in build- sors, corporate and individual, because with- fense Information School receives a Public ing AFPAAAs future I urge you to consider out them our annual products and meetings Affairs badge courtesy of our Association. a donation or an annual pledge to our en- would be missing some of the quality and Recently our association was asked to dowment fund. Jim Hart, our treasurer, sends diversity we all appreciate. provide funding for morale and welfare items a letter of acknowledgement and tax deduct- Last year, during the 10th Annual for the troops at the school house and we ibility with each donation. Meeting, member Betty Jane Williams chal- filled that request. If you would like more information lenged all the members present to donate at We have a member-managed website about the AFPAAA Endowment Fund, least $10 to the AFPAAA Endowment Fund. to keep us up to date on what is happening please send Jim a note at jimwhart@ Several hundred dollars were raised in just a and available to members. digitalexp.com. few minutes. And volunteers do all of this work. For me, the most important benefit A new member recenly asked what the All funding is from donations by mem- of our association is the ability and opportu- endowment fund was for. bers and corporate sponsors. nity to stay in touch with old friends and to We started the endowment fund in BAE Systems in Nashua, N.H. again make new ones. 1998 with an ultimate goal of raising printed the membership directory at no cost. Thank you all for your continuing sup- $300,000. That goal was determined by an Some of the events at our annual port of AFPAAA and our Air Force. I ask equation designed to provide sufficient in- meeting are funded by our friends at Boeing, you all to keep our troops who are deployed come from capital to sustain our association Lockheed Martin and Raytheon—and have in harms way in your prayers. God bless through good times and bad. been for many years. America. We are, after eight years, nearly half AFPAAA sponsorship of the SAF/ Sincerely way to our goal. PA Annual Golf Tournament is fully funded We have had endowment fund drives David by individual donations from members. and we will again. The AFPAAA Endow- David E. Smith Spring 2004 11

The Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Some restrictions apply Association newsletter is published quarterly for members of the Association. Online subscriptions are available at to blood center donors www.afpaaa.org Continued from Page 8 blood — they may donate as soon as their MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION: • Been affiliated with the Depart- blood pressure meets the criteria). Individuals who have ever served, or are • currently serving, in Air Force Public ment of Defense (DoD) and been sta- Have a cold, flu, or flu-like symp- Affairs, an Air Force Band, or as an Air tioned in Europe from 1980 through 1996 toms. (people are eligible to donate once Force Broadcaster, military or civilian, on for a cumulative period of six months or they have been feeling better for three active duty, or in the Guard or Reserve. more. days). MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES: Full • members- former Air Force Public Affairs, Traveled or resided in Europe ASBP blood donor centers are lo- Broadcasters, or Bandsmen, military or from 1980 to present for a cumulative cated at: civilian, retired or separated. Associate period of five years (applies to DoD per- • Elmendorf AFB, Alaska- (907) members- current or former Air Force Public Affairs, Broadcasters, or Bands- sonnel on or after January 1, 1997). 580-6520 • men, military or civilian, still in service. Received a transfusion in the • San Diego Naval Medical Center, Adjunct members- spouses, widows or United Kingdom since 1980. widowers of those eligible to be Full or Calif-(619) 532-6653 • Received bovine insulin produced Associate members. Affiliate members- a • Travis AFB, Calif.- 94535-1800 limited number of persons not eligible for in the United Kingdom since 1980. Main Number: (707) 423-5342 membership under any of the above People should not donate blood if categories may become a member upon they: • Walter Reed AMC, D.C.- (202) favorable recommendation by the • Have donated blood in the last 782-4156/3372 Membership Committee and approval by 55 days. • Ft Gordon, Ga.- (706) 787-3234 the Board of Directors (U.S. Citizens • only). Have had their ears-or any other • Tripler Army Medical Center, CHANGING CATEGORIES: Members part of your body-pierced in the past Hawaii-(808)433-6148 may change categories at any time as circumstances permit. They must notify twelve months. • Naval Hospital Great Lakes, Ill.- • Have had a tattoo or brand in the the Membership Committee of their new (847) 688-2068 status. past twelve months. • Scott AFB, Ill.- (618) 256-7351 MEMBERSHIP RATES: • Have had an immunization re- $300 for life membership (payable in four cently. (deferral times vary from two • Fort Knox, Ky.- (502) 624-8642 monthly $75 installments). $25 for one- weeks to one year, depending on the vac- • Keesler AFB, Miss- (228) 377- year membership (full, adjunct and affiliate). $50 for three-year membership cine). 9306 (full, adjunct and affiliate). $10 for one- • Are taking certain medications. • Camp Lejeune, N.C.-(910) 450- year membership (associate). $20 for (most medications do not disqualify do- 4606 three-year membership (associate). nation - call the local blood donor center MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONS: • Fort Bragg, N.C.- (910) 396-9925 Available at www.afpaaa.org to verify eligibility). • Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio- Completed forms and check or money • Do not feel well. order should be sent to: Air Force Public • Have a low hemoglobin (iron) (937) 257-0580 Affairs Alumni Association, P.O. Box level. (this will be tested before people • Fort Jackson, S.C.- (803) 751-2395 540, Fairfax, VA 22030-0540. donate blood — they may donate as soon • Fort Bliss, Tex.- (915) 569-1504 OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS as their level meets the minimum crite- (* denotes Board Members) • Fort Hood, Tex.- (254) 287-5938 Chairman of the Board: David Smith* ria). • Fort Sam Houston, Tex.- (210) President: Mike Gannon* • Do not weigh at least 110 pounds. Vice President: Charlie Powers* 295-4655 • Have traveled to or visited a ma- Secretary: Linda Arnold* • Lackland AFB, Tex.- (210) 292- Treasurer: Jim Hart* laria endemic area in the last twelve Board Members: Al Eakle, Larry Greer, John 8116 Gulick, C.B. Kelly, Jim McGuire, Joe Purka months (a list of malaria endemic areas Ex Officio Board Members: Mike McRaney, is available at the local blood donor cen- • Naval Medical Center, Ports- Jim Hart, John Gura, Joe Purka ter). mouth, Va.-(757) 953-1686 • COMMITTEE CHAIRS Have uncontrolled hypertension. • Fort Lewis, Wash.- (253) 968- Annual Meeting - John Gulick (this will be tested before people donate 1903 Communications - Al Eakle Newsletter Editor - Al Eakle Development - Joe Purka Submissions wanted for the newsletter Finance - Jim Hart People from within the Air Force Public editor, Al Eakle, at: [email protected] or sent by Membership - Neil Buttimer Affairs Alumni Association want to hear when snail mail to: Al Eakle, 3607 Shadetree Drive, Nominating - Kathy McCollom members are promoted, get a new job, receive Beavercreek Ohio 45431. Oral History - John Gura Special Events - Jim McGuire and award or do something newsworthy. The deadline for the Summer issue of Web Site - John Gura Submissions for the AFPAAA newsletter the newsletter is May 15. can either be emailed directly to the newsletter 12 Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Association Thunderbirds announce 2004 show schedule NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. June 12: Hill AFB, Utah; Oct. 9-10: Redding, Calif.; (AFPN) — The U.S. Air Force Air Dem- June 13: NAS Fallon, Nev.; Oct. 16-17: Houston; onstration Squadron “Thunderbirds” an- June 19-20: North Kingston Oct. 23-24: El Paso, Texas; nounced their 2004 air show schedule. ANGB, R.I.; Oct. 30-31: Lafayette, La.; The 2004 schedule is: June 26-27: Janesville, Wisc. Nov. 6: Camden, S.C.; Mar. 27-28: Punta Gorda, Fla. July 3-4: Kansas City, Mo.; Nov. 7: Seymour Johnson AFB, Apr. 3-4: Eglin AFB, Fla.; July 10-11: Binghampton, N.Y.; N.C.; Apr. 17- 18: San Diego; July 17-18: Cold Lake, Alberta; Nov. 13-14 — Nellis AFB, Nev. Apr. 24-25: March ARB, Calif.; July 21: Cheyenne, Wyo.; Show schedules are subject to May 1-2: Millville, N.J.; July 24-25: Fairchild AFB, Wash.; change, members of the retirement com- May 8-9: Lake City, Fla.; July 31-Aug. 1: Greenfield, Ind. munity should confirm a performance May 15-16: Dover AFB, Del.; Aug. 14-15: Westover ARB, Mass.; before traveling a long distance. May 22: Charleston AFB, S.C.; Aug 21-22: Offutt AFB, Neb.; Call the base public affairs office on May 23: Langley AFB, Va. Aug. 28 and 29: Toledo, Ohio.; the military installation where the event is May 29- 30: Moffett Field, Calif. Sept. 4: Ellsworth AFB, S.D.; planned or the local chamber of com- June 5- 6: Maxwell AFB, Ala.; Sept. 11-Oct. 3: Pacific Rim tour; merce at civilian locations.

VA has more details New law may provide income for unknowing spouses A recently passed law may provide this entitlement if they remarried at any http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/21- income for thousands of unknowing sur- age. The only provision to regain the ben- 686c.pdf. viving spouses of military retirees and efit was if the latter marriage ended in So far, this law has gotten has re- other veterans. death or divorce. ceived little publicity and some may be Public Law 108-183, the Veterans Also, those who have already remar- eligible for this benefit. Benefit Act of 2003 signed into law by ried (and were age 57 or older when they In addition, readers who know of President Bush on Dec. 16, allows survi- did so) have until Dec. 16, 2004 to apply individuals who may be eligible should vors of members who died of service- for reinstatement of their DIC benefits. inform them that of this new law. connected causes to retain Dependency The current entitlement is $967 a month. Those eligible should apply as soon and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) if The application form is VA form as possible as there was no mention that they remarry after attaining age 57. 21-686c which is available on the web at payments are retroactive. Previously, surviving spouses lost

Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Association First Class P.O. Box 540 P R S R T Fairfax, VA 22030-0540 (Return Service Requested) First Class Postage US Postage Paid Permit 289 Fergus Falls, MN