COMMANDER’S CORNER: AMAZING EVENTS OF LAST WEEK – PAGE 3 Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado

Thursday, September 27, 2007 Vol. 51 No. 26 Peterson transitions to privatized housing By Corey Dahl have certain expectations for amenities that Space Observer these houses currently lack. Now we’ll be Officials here handed over control of base able to provide them.” housing to a private developer this month, Families on base are eager for the changes. the first step in a process that will eventu- Airmen were required to sign new leases ally bring new homes to both Peterson and this summer if they wished to stay in family Schriever. housing, and, according to Bob Mathis, vice Private developer Actus Lend Lease president with Actus, the number of people closed on a $321 million privatization ini- who opted to stay exceeded expectations. tiative for Peterson, Schriever and Los “I had a couple of people tell me they were Angeles Air Force Bases Sept. 20. Actus – op- going to use the opportunity to move off erating under the name Tierra Vista base, buy a house downtown or something,” Communities – will now manage base he said. “But we’re actually at a higher rate housing here and receive servicemembers’ of occupancy than we expected.” base housing allowances each month. And, while families might not see any The transfer of authority also clears the shovels in the ground until April, Mr. way for Actus to begin replacing Peterson’s Mathis said residents can still expect to see 493 homes with 597 new ones and start major changes now that Actus has taken building 242 new homes on Schriever, over. Company representatives have al- which currently has no base housing. U.S. Air Force graphic ready been visiting houses, asking about “This is an exciting opportunity for our maintenance backlogs and taking care of community here at Peterson and Schriever,” them, he said. Actus has also been holding said Col. Carlos Cruz-Gonzalez, Air Force community events, such as a recent Space Command’s deputy director of instal- An artist’s rendition of future Peterson housing. Breakfast on the Go, and Mr. Mathis said lations and mission support. “This project residents can expect more activities in the allows us to move forward on our goal to The new units will be energy-efficient and The new houses will be a significant im- near future. provide good quality housing for our larger than the houses currently on base. provement over Peterson’s current housing “We want to create community, so they feel Airmen.” Actus will also take care of all lawn main- stock, which was built between 1965 and like somebody’s there watching over them,” Actus will start building new houses here tenance for residents and plans to build 1975, Colonel Cruz-Gonzalez said. he said. “Our goal is to improve quality of this spring with construction finishing on walking and biking trails, playgrounds and “They’re in good condition overall, but life for the men and women in our armed Schriever in 2010 and on Peterson in 2013. a community center. they’re dated,” he said. “Our families now forces.”

Photo by Roberta McDonald

Current and former members of the 76th SPCS gathered to bid farewell to part of its heritage, and adopt a new one, Sept. 21 at hangar 104 on the Peterson flight line. Transfer ceremony reunites pieces of historic Air Force heritage By Corey Dahl of the Flying Tigers heritage, which it has the 1940s. 76th as the newest member of our unit,” he Space Observer held since 1995, to the new 76th Fighter Col. Steve Arthur, commander of the said. “And we’re sure the 76th Fighter Two A-10s carried a piece of Flying Tigers Squadron, a reserve associate unit based out 442nd Fighter Wing at Whiteman AFB – Squadron will continue to serve with the heritage away from Peterson Sept. 21, part of Moody AFB, Ga. The 76th FS will now which is supplying the Reservists for the excellence that has always been a hallmark of an Air Force effort to reunite three pieces join the 74th and 75th Fighter Squadrons, new squadron, said the new unit is excited of this proud tradition.” of a historic World War II legacy. which also share the Flying Tigers heritage, to be adopting such a historic piece of Air The Flying Tigers heritage dates back to During the transfer ceremony, the 76th under the 23rd Wing – the same arrange- Force history. Space Control Squadron here gave its piece ment the original Flying Tigers shared in “As a wing, we are proud to welcome the See Tigers page 10

INSIDE Warrior Airmen Air Force heritage News 1-6 Combat action medal recognizes Peterson museum showcases a slice Airmen remember Commentary 7 Airmen serving on the front lines of history Briefs 8 POWs/MIAs Happenings 15 Page 14 Page 10 Page 5 Sports 17 SPACE OBSERVER 2 Thursday, September 27, 2007 SPACE OBSERVER www.peterson.af.mil Thursday, September 27, 2007 3

21ST SPACE WING 21st Space Wing Commander Col. Jay Raymond COMMANDER’S CORNER Chief of Public Affairs Capt. Toni Tones Editorial Staff Amazing events of last week Chief of Internal Information Steve Brady Commentary by Col. Jay Raymond up hope despite the challenges he and his Staff Reporter 21st Space Wing commander Col. fellow Americans faced. Corey Dahl Looking back over the past week, it was un- Jay Raymond Mr. Beck is a true American hero and we can Assistant Production Manager doubtedly my busiest week yet as commander never thank him enough for his 27-plus years Jeff Adcox of the 21st Space Wing. of military service. It goes without saying that On Sept. 20, Peterson hosted the JFCC Space 21st Space this event would not have been possible Published by Colorado Springs Military Newspapers and 14th Air Force commander’s conference at Wing without the support of many people. There Group, 31 E. Platte Avenue, Suite 300, Colorado Springs, 80903, a private firm in no way connected the Leadership Development Center. In addi- commander were dozens of support personnel who as- with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written con- tract with the 21st Space Wing. This commercial tion, we had the honor of hosting the 76th sisted with everything from set-up, invita- enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized pub- Space Control Squadron heritage ceremony as tions and parking all the way to the reception lication for members of the U.S. military services. the Flying Tiger lineage was formally trans- and escort for all of the honored guests. There Contents of the Space Observer are not necessarily decided to reunite the 74th, 75th, and 76th the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. ferred to the 76th Fighter Squadron at Moody were also hundreds of individuals who partic- Government, the Department of Defense or the AFB, Ga. As mentioned in last week’s article, fighter squadrons at Moody AFB. On Sept. ipated in the 24-hour POW/MIA run. Again, Department of the Air Force. 21, we conducted a ceremony to formally The appearance of advertising in this publication, the entire week was filled with a series of my personal thanks to all those who con- including inserts or supplements, does not constitute POW/MIA events, culminating with the transfer that lineage back to the new 76th tributed to making this event so successful. endorsement by DoD, the Department of the Air Fighter Squadron. Since its inception in 1995 Force, or CSMNG, of the products or services Remembrance Day ceremony Sept. 21. To top The capstone event of the week occurred advertised. Everything advertised in this publication as the 76th Space Operations Squadron, the shall be made available for purchase, use or patron- it all off, we celebrated the Air Force’s 60th an- with the Air Force’s 60th anniversary celebra- age without regard to race, color, religion, sex, niversary with a spectacular “Birthday Bash” men and women of the 76th SPCS have tion at The Club. Those attending the event had national origin, age, marital status, physical handi- taken great care of the Flying Tiger lineage cap, political affiliation or any other non-merit fac- event at The Club that same night. the opportunity to reflect on the great achieve- tor of the purchaser, user or patron. The JFCC Space and 14th Air Force com- and have proudly carried on the tradition ments the Air Force has accomplished since its Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by of excellence and innovative spirit that were the 21st Space Wing Public Affairs Office, 775 mander’s conference was a huge success inception as a separate service in 1947. Since Loring Ave., Suite 218, Peterson AFB, Colo., 80914- thanks, in part, to the outstanding planning the hallmarks of that historic group. that time, pioneers of the Air Force – like 1294, (719) 556-4351 or DSN 834-4351, fax (719) Since the Air Force made the decision to 556-7848 or DSN 834-7848. All photographs are Air and preparation that took place over the past Billy Mitchell, Hap Arnold, Curtis LeMay, and Force photographs unless otherwise indicated. two months by members of the 21st Space reunite the 74th, 75th, and 76th Fighter Bernard Schriever to name just a few – have The Space Observer is published every Thursday. Wing team. I received lots of comments from Squadrons at Moody AFB with the legacy been the driving force behind the continued For advertising inquiries, call Colorado Springs Military Newspapers, (719) 634-5905. Employees many of the conference participants regarding of the Flying Tigers, the professionals of capability and lethality that we possess today. of Peterson Air Force Base who want to place a free the 76 SPCS immediately provided their classified advertisement should call 329-5236. how great the base looked and the superb base Enlisted leaders like Chief Master Sgt. Paul Articles for the Space Observer should be submitted support they had received. support. Now it is time for the new 76th Airey, Airman 1st Class John Levitow, and to the 21st SW/PAI,Attn: Space Observer. For sub- My thanks to each and every one of you who Space Control Squadron “Lobos” to look Airman 1st Class William Pitsenbarger have mission details call the editor at (719) 556-4351 or DSN 834-4351 or e-mail space.observer@ peter- played a part in making such a great impres- to the horizons ... developing a new lineage also shaped our heritage with their vital con- son.af.mil. Deadline for article submission is noon while never forgetting the heritage from the Thursday one week before publication. News sion. I’d especially like to thank Capt. Erin tributions. brief items must be submitted on-line at www.peter- Hancock, 721st Mission Support Group, for which they came. One of the key things I came away from son.af.mil and will run on a space available basis. All articles, copy and announcements submitted will be the part she played in planning and organizing That same afternoon, Peterson con- after spending a night paying tribute to our sto- edited to conform to AFI Series 35 and the the myriad activities that went into the confer- cluded POW/MIA week with a remem- ried history is to never forget where we came Associated Press Stylebook and Libel Manual. ence. There were a lot of moving parts leading brance ceremony at the base chapel. Mr. from. Without knowing the past, we can never up to and during the actual event and she was Ed Beck, a former POW during World War look to the future. instrumental in making sure everything went II who managed to successfully escape from Again, what an exciting week this past week 21st Space Wing Mission off without a hitch. his German captors, delivered some truly turned out to be. Thanks again for all those and Vision As part of the Air Force’s 60th anniversary inspiring remarks as he recounted how he who played a part in making all of these “Heritage to Horizons” theme, the Air Force was captured and the fact that he never gave events so successful. Our Mission Conduct world class space Action Lines superiority operations and MPF wait times that there were only two personnel working load and are in the process of hiring addi- provide unsurpassed that area. Why aren't more people assigned to tional personnel to assist customer service Question: Are there any plans or efforts installation support and that area? response times. The MSS has also established under way to hire more personnel either per- Answer: We apologize for the delay you a priority system to help manage the increased protection while deploying manent or temporary to help reduce the encountered at the customer service area. Our customer workload. However, Mondays and Warrior Airmen. backlog and the unsatisfactory wait times at customer service area historically experiences Tuesdays have typically been the busiest days the Mission Support Squadron Customer increased workload during the summer and customers needing less urgent support Service Area? I want to express my concern months due to dependants out of school, in- are encouraged to consider delaying visits Our Vision and dissatisfaction with the long wait times, creased contractor hirings and additional per- until later in the week. The MSS and the MPF Strength and Preparedness especially as it relates to TriCare Deers sup- sonnel seeking customer service support are working hard to ensure visits to the cus- port service. while on leave. tomer service area will meet your needs with to Save the Nation. I inquired as to why some 35 to 40 people The Mission Support Squadron has estab- customer satisfaction. Thank you for bringing are waiting for assistance and was advised lished overhire positions to manage the work- this to our attention.

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PUBLISHER Lon P. Matejczyk [email protected] EDITORIAL Editor Mike Boyd [email protected] Sports Reporter Walt Johnson [email protected] Entertainment Reporter Nel Lampe [email protected] ADVERTISING Advertising Director/GM Tex Stuart [email protected] Rob Carrigan [email protected] Tammy Fogall [email protected] Photo by Roberta McDonald Kathleen Gannon [email protected] A flight if Airmen carry the POW/MIA flag to the chapel Sept. 21 as part of the POW/MIA Day ceremony. Linda Stuart [email protected] Classified Ad Manager Peterson Airmen remember POWs, MIAs Heidi Witherington [email protected] By Corey Dahl Beck, who is now commander of the Rocky to recognize POW/MIA Week, but the Air ART DEPARTMENT Space Observer Mountain Chapter of the American Ex- Force First Sergeants Association, which Art Director Ed Beck knows there’s nothing fun about Prisoners of War. “You’re a number, and the planned the week’s events, decided to do more Rowdy Tompkins being a prisoner of war. enemy can do with you whatever they want. this year in honor of the Air Force’s 60th [email protected] Held by the Germans during World War II, All of us ex-POWs wish there will never be Birthday. Mr. Beck, a retired Army master sergeant, was another POW.” Speaking at the ceremony on Friday, Col. Jay forced to walk for hours on end, work in a stone But, unfortunately, POWs and MIAs still Raymond, commander of the 21st Space Wing, quarry and sleep on crowded floors, often with occur, so Mr. Beck joined members of Team said the week is an important opportunity to rec- very little food. Pete on Sept. 21 in honoring the 176,785 POWs ognize heroes both past and present. Though he eventually escaped to France and and MIAs America has counted since World “Our nation can never forget the untold sac- made it back to the United States, Mr. Beck said War I. The ceremony capped off five days of rifices our nation’s POWs have made on behalf he still finds it hard to talk about his experi- honoring POW/MIA Week here, with activi- of America,” Colonel Raymond said. “Although ence and he would never wish POW-status on ties that included a vigil, a 24-hour run and we stand here today as one small group on one anybody. two flag ceremonies. small base, we also stand here united with the “Being a POW, you’re nobody,” said Mr. Peterson usually holds just a brief ceremony rest of the nation in honoring these people.” SPACE OBSERVER www.peterson.af.mil Thursday, September 27, 2007 5 SnoFest: An affordable winter rest, relaxation option By James Lovely Friday’s party includes a performance by Tops in Blue, the 10th Services Marketing acclaimed Air Force Expeditionary Entertainers. The show, USAFA, Colo. – It’s time to start planning for SnoFest. “The Fly-By” will honor the 60th anniversary of the Air Force. The military’s 18th annual snow sports weekend is Jan. 25- Saturday’s party, themed “Reel Fun,” will pay homage to 27, 2008, at Keystone Resort. SnoFest features a variety of Hollywood. Everyone is encouraged to come dressed as activities, including competitive ski and snowboard racing, their favorite movie character. The Air Force band “Pegasus” fantastic parties and a variety of other activities. will provide the musical entertainment. Discounts on lodging, lift tickets, and equipment make SnoFest the most fun and affordable winter vacation option Discounted lift tickets for the military community. SnoFest is hosted by Services Lift tickets for SnoFest will also be available at ITT begin- from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Buckley, F.E. Warren, ning Nov. 1. The discounts are significant, too. Schriever and Peterson Air Force bases, Headquarters Space An adult SnoFest lift ticket will be $43 ($39 for E-1 to E- Command and Fort Carson. 4), a savings of $12 over the price of a military discounted SnoFest started as a one-day event, but has morphed into lift ticket this season and a savings of as much as $40 under a weekend of fun in the Colorado Rockies. Photo by Steve Brady the retail price. Lift tickets for children ages 12 and younger “Today, we still work hard to keep SnoFest, now a three- The cardboard derby is a popular part of the annual SnoFest ski weekend will be $29. Children under 5 ski free. day event, as affordable as possible,” said Kaye Grant, 10th at Keystone Resort. The event, held each year in January, offers dis- Services Marketing director at the U.S. Air Force Academy counts for military and their family members. and a SnoFest chairperson. “Our commercial sponsorships Ski and snowboard racing generously provide cash and product to reduce the cost to To ensure that you get the best rates and availability, it’s NASTAR ski and snowboard racing competitions among our attendees – lower party prices, free racing, free cardboard important to book your lodging reservations as early as all represented military installations, fun races and open derby and lots of free drink and food giveaways. possible. Rates at Keystone start at just $119 per night (not skiing are free with the purchase of a SnoFest lift ticket. “No matter how you cut it, skiing is a very expensive sport including tax and surcharge) for a deluxe studio that ac- This year, there will be absolutely no late registration. Racers and every year prices go higher. SnoFest folks work with commodates a family of four. must pre-register through Outdoor Recreation by Jan. 17. Keystone to try to keep the prices in the ballpark for our mil- To reserve lodging at Keystone, call (800) 258-0437, and itary families.” mention base affiliation and group code GV7SNFE. For Activities for non-skiers lodging near Keystone, call Colorado R&R at (719) 333-7367. Wounded servicemembers learn to ski Non-skiers attending SnoFest won’t be left out in the cold. Party tickets sell out fast Available activities include a visit to the Glenwood Hot This year, SnoFest is expanding to include participation Springs, an ice sculpture contest, ITT tours, ice skating, by about 20 active duty members who were severely injured Because seating is limited at Friday’s and Saturday’s after- tubing, sleigh rides, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and fighting the Global War on Terrorism. ski parties and tickets are likely to sell out well in advance, the cardboard derby. Adaptive Adventures, a nonprofit organization, is hoping partygoers should plan to get their tickets as soon as pos- to advance the quality of life of these men and women by sible. Each night’s party in the Keystone Conference Center Enter the cardboard derby teaching them to ski within the limitations of their disabil- includes a buffet and entertainment. Party tickets go on sale ities. Nov. 1 at base Information, Tickets and Tours offices. Tickets Saturday’s cardboard derby is, arguably, the weekend’s are $15 for adults, $10 for children ages 5-12, ages 4 and most fun event. Families, squadrons, teams and individuals under are free if they do not occupy a seat. build snow racers from cardboard, tape, paint, paper and rope. Book lodging soon New this year: Reserve an entire table at one of the par- It’s not too early to begin creating your entry. Bring your racer A wide variety of heavily discounted accommodations ties by purchasing a block of 10 tickets at once and signing to the slope or make one on-site the day of the event from have been set aside at Keystone just for SnoFest. Hotel up at that time. All other seating is on a first-come, first-serve available materials. rooms, studios and one-, two- and three-bedroom condos basis. Last year, partygoers took home thousands of dollars For more information about SnoFest, check with your are available for booking beginning Oct. 1. worth of prizes and giveaways. base ITT or go to www.usafaservices.com/snofest.htm. Here’s to YOUR next { journeys home }

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Card office dealing with lots of people “The wait is dependent on a lot of other things, By Corey Dahl just four machines, the CAC card office tempted to yell. A lot. Space Observer handles IDs for hundreds of people a Some days, Sergeant Trumpfheller said, es- so don’t treat us like It’s not easy working in the Common month. In July alone, staff issued 1,750 IDs. pecially when a lot of servicemembers are punching bags – we’re Access Card office. “When people get angry, they get angry changing stations or if several customers in But the staff deserve sympathy – and pa- with us, even when it’s something we can’t a row don’t have their paperwork in order, just here to help.” tience – from their customers. Issuing a really control,” said Master Sgt. Greg the office’s waiting room is standing room Master Sgt. Greg Trumpfheller, CAC card is more complex than it seems. Trumpfheller, superintendent of customer only. Making the CAC card itself is fairly service for the card office. “Our wait time can range anywhere from superintendent of customer service simple. The process usually takes just about Sometimes delays occur because the 20 minutes to four hours,” he said. “The a half hour to complete, mostly because of office handles multiple other issues for the waiting really depends on who’s in front of where they will deal exclusively with cus- an encryption process that takes at least 12 base community, such as special leave ac- you – how many customers we have and tomers. to 15 minutes – longer if the computer net- crual, commissary shopping privileges and the type.” Until then, though, the CAC card office work, based on the East Coast, is lagging. passports and visas – all complex and The office is working on moving people would like people to bear with them. And Base IDs, which are not encrypted, go a little lengthy processes in their own right. through faster. Priority days started a few – most importantly – be nice. bit faster, so they take just a few minutes to On a good day, when the line is short, months ago, allowing certain types of per- “It’s not a convenience, unfortunately, but complete. people complain that the issuing process sonnel to move to the head of the line on it really isn’t up to us,” Sergeant So what causes the wait time to escalate? takes about a half hour. their designated day. The office is also Trumpfheller said. “The wait is dependent Mostly, it’s the sheer volume of people fil- On a bad day, when lines are long, the looking at adding two customer service em- on a lot of other things, so don’t treat us like tering in throughout the day. Working with process can take hours, and people may be ployees to staff a desk in the waiting room, punching bags – we’re just here to help.”

Military, civilian healthcare leaders meet to address military growth By Lt. Col. Michelle Pell port to our beneficiaries, which include our nation’s heroes, imminent importance is the development of the Warrior Director, Multi-Service Market Office past, present and future,” said Col. Alan Berg, Air Force Transition Unit at Fort Carson. COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Military and civilian Academy Hospital commander. “This unit was developed to address the complex health healthcare leaders in the Colorado Springs community are The conference will also address how to take care of re- care needs for wounded Soldiers. The mission of the WTU meeting again to continue planning for the future growth tired beneficiaries with the challenge of a significant in- is to provide command and control, primary care and case and changes in the military community. crease in active duty and their family members over the management for our Warriors in Transition to establish On Oct. 2, senior leaders from the Air Force Academy next three years. conditions for healing and promote the timely return to the Hospital, Evans Army Community Hospital, Peterson Clinic, “In this changing healthcare environment with a nation force or transition to continue serving the nation as a TriWest Healthcare Alliance, Veterans Administration, and at war, we remain committed to providing the highest quality Veteran in their community,” said Col. Kelly Wolgast, Evans several civilian healthcare facilities are meeting to address the accessible healthcare to our patients. Supporting the antic- Army Community Hospital commander. “Our healthcare healthcare requirements of the community. ipated growth of our community will be an opportunity to partners in Colorado Springs, as part of our robust TRI- As the military adjusts for Base Realignment and Closure further enhance our partnership with our civilian and mil- CARE network, will assist in the provision of quality care legislation and Army transformation initiatives, the health- itary medical leaders,” said Col. Joycelyn Elaiho, Peterson for these warriors.” care community is developing strategies to meet the needs Clinic deputy commander. This Strategic Medical Planning Conference is the fourth of the growing military population. With the northeast and southeast side of Colorado Springs to occur in the past two years and will continue to be a “This planning meeting is critical to merging military expanding, Peterson Clinic will certainly be an attractive forum for future medical planning in the Colorado Springs medical capabilities with the community to ensure full sup- Primary Care Manager choice for military beneficiaries. Of community.

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Center, mortuary affairs, the medical up at seven on Saturday morning, July 8, unconscious for In a short time, Kitty had to clear the squadron and from the base community 2006, my five- and three-year-old boys came transportation management office, the legal came to our aid. Mortuary affairs specialists in to our bedroom looking for a pillow fight more than a day, the office, personnel, finance and more. Friends made the arrangements to get Baby Jack to with dad. My wife, only five weeks preg- helped in every way they could with my U.S. my home town in South Dakota for the fu- nant, a little queasy, and eager to avoid the Air Force family had and NATO out-processing checklists. neral. My parents had come out to be with us ensuing melee, got up to make breakfast. started to mobilize Thanks to the Company Grade Officers and take care of the boys again and Air Force None of us knew it would be our last Council, Kitty had a group of volunteers to Aid Society officials bought us all tickets morning in that house together. almost immediately.” help her with heavy tasks. The Protestant home for Jack’s funeral. And the Andrews As a public affairs officer, I had been as- and Catholic chapel communities cooked community rallied around us to cook meals signed to NATO Airbase Geilenkirchen for meals and offered spiritual support. Groups, and support us as we dealt with this loss. started, and many people were in action. the past two years. We were fortunate to individuals, and organizations across the Loss and trials, although so hard to go One of the first steps was getting support have found in a small German village a base and the Air Force pulled together for through, teach lessons better than books and for my wife and boys, and casualty affairs beautiful house with a big back yard and us during this difficult time. briefings. It was God and our Air Force family Airmen at Spangdahlem Air Base, welcoming neighbors. Although work was With the help of so many people, Kitty who got us through this past year. It was Germany, and Randolph Air Force Base, busy for me, with two beautiful boys and and the boys made it to D.C. by the end of people in personnel, Tricare, TMO, casualty one on the way, life was good for us and I Texas, got the job done quickly. They had my August. By then, my rehabilitation was pro- affairs, mortuary affairs, legal and more, doing knew I was on top of my game. parents on travel orders and got them from gressing and I was able to meet them at the their jobs to help us, and doing them well. After a few minutes of pillow combat, I felt South Dakota to my bedside within 24 airport, walking with only a cane. I’ll never It was the incredible medical professionals a strong tingle in my face, and then the hours. In the meantime, the whole NATO forget the beautiful sight of the three of all along the way working to help us heal. It room started spinning. I collapsed on the airbase was alerted and eager to help. them getting off the plane. We were finally was the communities at Geilenkirchen and bed, wondering what was happening. A half While this was happening, I waited for together and were excited about moving Andrews pulling together to support us. hour later I was unconscious with a motion to return to my right side. After six forward together as a family. And it was thousands of donors and the Air breathing tube down my throat, riding a days I had almost given up hope. Then my medevac helicopter to a nearby hospital. A thumb twitched. A few days later, I could But we were not out of the woods yet. Just Force Aid Society staff who got us quickly blood clot had lodged in my brainstem and make a fist. After almost two weeks, I could when we thought the hardest part was behind to the funeral. parts of it had scattered to my cerebellum. hold a plastic cup, although I couldn’t drop us, it got worse. After only a few weeks in From all of this I’ve learned in a profound I was 33 years old and I was having a it. But the recovery had started. D.C., we needed the Air Force family again. way that I had been fooling myself into stroke. Thirty-six hours later I woke up in At that point, the doctors decided I was Only five weeks pregnant when my stroke thinking I could go it alone. Thank God the intensive care unit, unable to speak, and stable enough to move. The Air Force per- happened, Kitty was nearly 20 weeks along and the Air Force family that isn’t true. with the right side of my body lifeless. sonnel system linked up with the Tricare by the time we moved on base at Andrews Air Epilogue: Today I’m back at work, assigned Although I had been unconscious for medical system and made arrangements for Force Base, Md. During a routine 20-week ul- to the Secretary of the Air Force Office of Public more than a day, the Air Force family had me to be transported to Walter Reed Army trasound at the Bethesda National Naval Affairs in the Pentagon. In December, Colonel started to mobilize almost immediately. Medical Center in Washington D.C. via the Medical Center, the doctor said he saw “some Casey, who had raced Kitty to the hospital in As the helicopter left our village, my wife Landstuhl Regional Medical Center near things that concerned him.” After some tests, July, ran a 5K race with me at Walter Reed. The Kitty was on the phone with a good friend, Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Once I was he confirmed that the baby had a fatal chro- medical board results have just come back and Lt. Col. Jim Casey, one of the senior at Landstuhl, it was only matter of days mosome defect, Trisomy 18. The little boy I have been cleared to return to active duty. I Americans on the base. He raced from his before I was on a C-17 Globemaster III we named John Robert and called Baby Jack also have been selected for the Air Force’s house in the Netherlands and drove Kitty to bound for Washington D.C. would likely not live more than a few days past Regional Affairs Strategist program as a Sub- the hospital while our neighbors took care As I left, Kitty was faced with moving her- birth, if he survived pregnancy and delivery. Saharan Africa specialist. But most impor- of the boys. By the time he got to our house, self, our boys and our entire household from Valentine’s Day, 2007, Baby Jack died tantly, we know that as we go forward together, Colonel Casey had already gotten things Germany to Washington, DC. The help of during labor. the Air Force family is with us.

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You are invited to RAMBLIN EXPRESS First Baptist Church of Peaceful Valley TriCare Prime offers off-base Shuttle to Cripple Creek • Independent - Fundamental routine eye examination benefit! • King James Bible No out-of-pocket cost for • Soul Winning and Visitation Program an eye exam for glasses! • Bus Ministry • Active-duty dependents are eligible • Faith Promise Missions once per year. • Annual Missions Conference • Retirees and their dependents are • Old Fashioned Preaching eligible once every two years. • Strong Bible Centered Families No Primary Care referral is Services are as follows: necessary. Simply call for an appointment. Sunday 9:45am Sunday School 10:30am Preaching Service The doctors next to LensCrafters are contracted Tricare 6:00pm Evening Service Prime Providers. They offer three convenient Colorado Springs Wednesday 7:00pm Bible Study and Prayer Meeting Locations for eye examinations with appointments Monday through Thursday 9:30am and 6:30pm Visitation Saturday. No more waiting for an appointment on base. Saturday Men’s Prayer Meeting Southside Between Northside We are located at the corner of Fontaine and Powers Citadel Mall Vickers & Academy Chapel Hills Mall 7925 Fontaine Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80925 598-1392 548-8717 598-5068 AW Payne, Pastor (719-392-4444) www.firstbaptistchurchofpeacefulvalley.org TriCare Standard, TriCare Reserve and TriCare for Life also accepted. Prescriptions may be filled anywhere. Contact lens evaluation available for additional cost. Call for program details. SPACE OBSERVER 8 Thursday, September 27, 2007 B a s e Briefs Promotion ceremony Free tickets Sgt. Vonsetta Love at (334) 394-7191 or (800) 368-4481, or go to www.goang.com. The monthly Team Pete Induction and Promotion The Air Force Academy athletic department offers free Recognition Ceremony is 3 p.m. Sept. 28 at The Club Annex. tickets for active duty military (enlisted only) to all sporting events. Tickets are available the week of the event only (limit Chapel schedule Stripes Pub hours update two per person, per event), and must be picked up at least 48 The Peterson base chapel offers the following services: hours before the event. For information, call 333-3951; or Catholic Masses: noon Tuesday through Friday, 5 p.m. Stripes Pub hours have been changed. New hours are: call 472-1895 to reserve tickets (week of event only). 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday all ranks, Saturday and 9:30 a.m. Sunday. Catholic Religious Education 4 p.m. to close, enlisted (and civilian equivalent) only; 8 a.m. Sunday. Saturday closed; Toastmasters membership drive Protestant: Liturgical – 8:15 a.m. Sunday, Traditional 11 a.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. to close all ranks; The Peterson Toastmasters is having a membership drive Sunday, and Gospel 12:30 p.m. Sunday. The Pub is also open to all ranks for special events and from 11:35 a.m. to 12:35 p.m. Nov. 6 at the Base Chapel, For information call the chapel at 556-4442. Football Frenzy. rooms 1 and 2. There will be a demo meeting, a question and answer session and a talk on “Deployments: How it af- Stop smoking Peterson Idol fects children and the family.” Information and refreshments The Health and Wellness Center offers tobacco cessation will be provided. For information contact Bea Garcia-Macliz classes from 11 a.m. to noon starting Nov. 1, or from 4 to 5 The Peterson Idol singing competition, hosted by the at 471-0068. Junior Enlisted Association, is 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 28 at the base p.m. Oct. 10 and Nov. 28 in the HAWC classroom. Each class auditorium. Grand prize is $250. Call 567-4819 for ticket in- runs six weeks; individual sessions are also available by ap- formation; admission is free for ages 3 and under; $5 for ages Evaluation cutoff date pointment. For information, call 556-6674. 4 to 12; 4% for dorm residents; $7 for general admission; To ensure all eligible enlisted Airmen are provided equi- and $10 at the door. table and fair promotion consideration, all Airmen eligible Fitness center policy for promotion in the CY08E5 cycle must have a revised en- The Fitness and Sports Center requires patrons who use listed performance report on file as of the promotion eligi- Motorcycle reminder exercise areas with hardwood floors (gym, racquetball courts bility cutoff date, March 31, 2008. The CSS will administer and aerobics room) to hand-carry court shoes into the facility. When riding a motorcycle at Schriever, Peterson or the unit performance report program to include suspenses, Cheyenne Mountain, riders must wear all required safety tracking, updating and sending reports to AFPC. For infor- Court shoes worn on the street carry in sand, grit and small equipment. The requirements include a helmet, full fingered mation, call 556-6266/4008. pebbles that mar the floor’s surface. gloves, over the ankle boots, long pants, long sleeves, and a For information, call the Fitness and Sports Center front brightly colored outer garment which is reflective at night. desk at 556-4462. For information, contact the 21st or 50th Space Wing safety Hispanic Heritage committee meets offices at 556-6781 or 567-7233. The Hispanic Heritage Committee meets at 3 p.m. every Professional development Wednesday in the Building 350 atrium. The group needs National public lands day volunteers to help with Hispanic Heritage Observance Month The Professional Development Center’s new Community (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15). For information contact Master Sgt. of Practice site has information on all its programs and All national parks offer free admission Sept. 29 in celebra- Art Figeroa at 556-1623. courses. Register for classes online and more at tion of National Public Lands Day. For information about these https://afkm.wpafb.af.mil/teampetePDC. and other specific projects, go to www.publiclandsday.org. Volunteers needed Fitness center Family Day hours Tailgate party The Red Cross is looking for administrative volunteers in Building 350. Applicants must have computer knowledge The Fitness and Sports Center is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Team Pete Tailgaters is having tailgate parties at the Air Force (Word and Excel) and good customer service, and be able to all 21st Space Wing Family Days, Saturdays, Sundays and Academy for Falcon home games. Enjoy free food and foot- give in-office briefings. For information, contact Cathy Hart holidays. For information, call 556-4462. ball fun at the stadium; enter the North Gate, park in Lot 4 at 556-7590. and walk to Spot 2 near Gate 4. Dates are Oct. 6 and 20, and DASH offers free rides Nov. 3 and 17. (Visit http://goairforcefalcons.cstv.com for a complete schedule and game times). Team Pete volunteers are Guard vacancies Drive a Servicemember Home, formerly known as EADD, needed to set up and cook at the tailgate parties on Oct. 20 The Alabama Air National Guard has part-time vacancies offers free rides from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and Nov. 17. For information or to volunteer, call Warren for multiple Air Force specialty codes. It is also offering a including holidays. The program is open to all ranks and Brainard at 474-2305. $15,000 bonus until Sept. 30. For information, contact Master services. Call 55 NO DUI for a free ride.

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these troops get to see that this is whence the Air Photo Sgt. Don Branum by Staff Force came.” and planning has started on a space operations exhibit. As a tour guide, Ms. Foster shows visitors around The Broadmoor Hangar is scheduled to open as part the original Colorado Springs Airport terminal, now of the museum later in 2007, and a missile plaza is the main museum building. One of the exhibits on planned for construction adjacent to the hangar. display is a collection of items recovered from the The expansions will allow the museum and its vis- German prisoner-of-war camp Stalag Luft III, which itors to pay homage to a proud – and expanding – Ann Foster and Lt. Col. John Demboski talk about an exhibit displaying the history of was featured in “The Great Escape.” Some of the legacy of air and space power. Ms. Foster said she Stalag Luft III, a German air force prisoner-of-war camp made famous in Paul Brickhill’s pieces in the collection include canned rations, a plans to be a part of it. “The Great Escape.” Ms. Foster is a 20-year Air Force veteran and a volunteer at the chess set and a model of the camp built by retired Lt. “I love history, and having served 20 years in the museum. Colonel Demboski is commander of the 50th Mission Support Squadron at Gen. Albert Clark. A former commandant at the Air Force, I love the Air Force, too,” she said. Schriever AFB.

Wing, as the transfer occurred during the Air on that spirit of innovation,” Colonel Force’s “Heritage to Horizons”-themed 60th Raymond said. “Over the past 12 years, the Tigers: Spirit of innovation birthday celebration. men and women of the 76th SPCS have taken “This year, as we commemorate 60 years great care of this lineage and have proudly car- From page 1 and 76th Fighter Squadrons and fought the remainder of the war as part of the 23rd of air and space excellence, we’re celebrating ried the mantle of the Flying Tigers.” Fighter Group. Over the years, the units our past and looking toward our future,” he For the 76th, the future means building a 1941, when a group of American volunteer drifted apart, were deactivated and reacti- said at the ceremony. “Today’s ceremony is new legacy under their new name – the pilots banded together under secret presi- vated in numerous forms, and the heritage all about Heritage to Horizons.” 76th SPCS Lobos. Unit members said dential sanction to defend China against all three carried was separated. The 76th operates a counter communica- they’re sorry to see the Flying Tigers heritage the Japanese. The unit eventually became The 76th Fighter Squadron began tions system, which provides a critical coun- go, but they’re looking forward to begin- renowned for its combat successes, often preparing for stand up earlier this year, terspace capability never before available to ning their own storied lineage. while flying in adverse conditions, as well as though, and Air Force officials decided to re- warfighters around the world. “We’re just going from being a small part its distinctive Curtiss P-40 planes, which unite the heritage under the same wing once “The Flying Tigers were an innovative of a large history to being a big part of our own had shark-like faces painted on the front. again. The timing was appropriate, said Col. group, and it is clear that the 76th SPCS, the thing,” said Capt. Cory Garcher, a member of The unit was later split into the 74th, 75th Jay Raymond, commander of the 21st Space Air Force’s first counterspace unit, carried the 76th Space Control Squadron. Loans for military life Simple. Affordable. For all ranks.

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Great football game day menu Visit us today: 2710 S Academy Blvd | Colorado Springs, CO M-F 0900-1800 S 1000-1400 719.391.1111 | PioneerMilitaryLending.com I-25 AT TEJON BETWEEN ACADEMY AND POWERS AND WOODMEN RD. BIJOU & KIOWA AUSTIN BLUFFS N. CAREFREE © 2007. All loan applications subject to our credit policies. No official US military endorsement is implied. 719.593.7678 719.634.8812 719.536.0633 719.591.8994 MidCountry Bank is a member FDIC. mc-rel-044 SPACE OBSERVER www.peterson.af.mil Thursday, September 27, 2007 11

In the October 25 The Space Military Observer Family

Useful and fun-filled family editorial not found in the regular papers or any other local source! The entire family will enjoy the variety of material prepared just for them. Military spouses have participated in focus groups to help create a lively and valuable editorial product providing the ideal environment for your advertising message. From recipe and coloring contests to how to prepare for relocation and deployment, The Military Family special insert is a great way to let military families know about your goods, services and discounts. RATES PER ISSUE 4 ISSUE COMBO Full Page: $3,402 $2,930 per issue 2/3 Page: $2,276 $2,010 per issue Island: $1,521 $1,315 per issue Half Page: $1,826 $1,617 per issue 1/3 Page: $1,215 $1,064 per issue 1/4 Page: $921 $814 per issue 1/8 Page: $461 $409 per issue 1/16 Page: $225 $210 per issue Spot Color $50 • Full Color $250

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If you have story ideas, or would like to enter a dish in the recipe contest, e-mail [email protected] SPACE OBSERVER 12 Thursday, September 27, 2007

The IDRC is responsible not only for the 50th Space Wing but also for tenant units on base AROUND THE – a total of more than 2,100 servicemembers, according to April 2007 base population sta- tistics. As of Sept. 4, approximately 90 Schriever servicemembers were deployed, with about 100 preparing for deployment between September and April in support of the upcoming rotation of Air and Space Expeditionary Forces 9 and 10, Mr. Freshwater said. About 25 per- AIR FORCE cent of those currently deployed will return between September and April. After one year, Phoenix Warrior course soaring high ‘Today’s Air Force’ highlights medical care, Air Force birthday

FORT DIX, N.J. (AFPN) – Airmen at Photo by Tech. Sgt. Scott T. Sturkol SAN ANTONIO (AFPN) – This week’s edition of “Today’s Air Force” highlights one of the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary A student in the Air Force Phoenix Warrior the Air Force chief of staff’s priorities: medical care. Also featured in this edition are weapons Center’s 421st Combat Training Training Course 07-6 participates in convoy training and the Air Force’s 60th Birthday. Squadron have finished their first year training. The 30-minute, weekly news show can be seen every day on The Pentagon Channel, of teaching the Phoenix Warrior American Forces Radio and Television Service stations around the world, and is available Training Course, and all signs point to via podcast at http://www.af.mil/library/podcast.asp. The show also airs on approximately the fact it is helping prepare security 80 public cable-access stations within the United States. If you would like your local public forces for their wartime mission. access station to carry this program, send a request to [email protected]. “Phoenix Warrior, from inception, has evolved to meet our adversaries’ Deployed gunners have eagle eyes with safer turret system shifting tactics,” said Capt. Brent Gallant, operations flight commander for the MOODY AIR FORCE 421st CTS. “By providing the most cur- BASE, Ga. (AFPN) – Security rent tactics, techniques and procedures, forces Airmen here are now or TTPs, used in the deployed environ- training with a new high-tech- ment, as well as using the most advanced nology weapons system cur- training aids available such as the rently being used during center’s state-of-the-art close-quarters outside-the-wire patrols in battle camera system, we provide security forces pre-deployment training that is second to Iraq. none.” Instructors from the Army’s Phoenix Warrior is essentially “combat skills training” mainly for security forces, Captain Military Police School from Gallant said. It is different from the 421st CTS’ Advanced Contingency Skills Training Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., courses in that it trains security forces and those non-security forces Airmen assigned to trained members of the 820th security forces unit type codes prior to deploying. The program, which includes 17 days of Security Forces Group in the Photo by Tech. Sgt. Parker Gyokeres Sgt. Parker Tech. by Photo training, is based upon 21 core tasks determined by the Air Force Security Forces Center. effective use of the common Tech. Sgt. Mark Klinefelter operates a common remotely operated remotely operated weapon sta- weapon station. The CROWS turret allows a gunner to remain safely pro- Small IDRC supports big ops-tempo tion, said Master Sgt. Richard tected inside his armored vehicle while operating the computer-stabilized, Amann, the 820th SFG NCO laser-aimed weapon. SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. – Increasing numbers of Airmen are deploying in charge of training. from Schriever to fly, fight and win the Global War on Terrorism. The job of preparing CROWS is a stabilized, computer-controlled, all-weather firing platform mounted over these Airmen for their deployments falls to one of the smallest installation deployment the turret-gunner’s station of an up-armored Humvee, Sergeant Amann said. It provides a readiness cells in the Air Force – and the Schriever IDRC manages the array of diverse mis- 360-degree long-range precision engagement capability to a patrol crew while keeping the sions with aplomb. gunner safely protected inside the vehicle. The IDRC does its mission with four people – Jim Freshwater is the installation deploy- ment officer. First Lt. Jonathan Lee and Staff Sgts. Alyson Gardner and Delaney Rakosnik General Moseley kicks off AFA conference are assigned to the office as well. On paper, however, the IDRC has only two authoriza- tions: one logistician and one personnelist. WASHINGTON (AFPN) – The Air Force chief of staff spoke at the opening ceremonies for the Air Force Association’s Air & Space Conference and Technology Exposition Sept. 24. “This is a celebration of being a separate service with a primary mission of flying and fighting and defending our country,” Gen. T. Michael Moseley said. The conference includes many professional development forums and discussions sur- rounding the Air Force’s top three priorities: fighting and winning the war on terrorism, de- veloping and caring for Airmen, and recapitalizing and modernizing the aging fleet and equipment. General Moseley feels Airmen have a lot to take away from this year’s conference, which includes the attendance of air chiefs from various nations. PRTs help rebuild Afghanistan, one road at a time BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan (AFPN) – A joint effort between the Bagram Provincial Reconstruction Team based here and local Afghan villagers led to the opening of a new road Sept. 14 in Bagram District. Brig. Gen. James W. Hyatt, the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing commander, was on hand to mark the ribbon cutting for a new three-kilometer paved road as well as the ground- breaking for a new district building, similar to a county seat in the United States. The local government worked hand-in-hand with the Bagram PRT to get an assortment of projects working throughout the year, to include the two projects that were the focus of the ceremony, said Capt. Harry Jackson, lead engineer for the Bagram PRT. Earn Your Degree ON BASE This project was just one of hundreds that PRTs assist local governments with.

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By Staff Sgt. J.G. Buzanowski U.S. Air Force graphic Air Force Print News WASHINGTON (AFNEWS) – Air Force officials at the Air Force Personnel Center released criteria for award of the new combat action medal, an award for Airmen who have been involved in direct fighting sit- uations where they risked their lives in an enemy engagement. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael Moseley authorized the medal’s creation Air Force combat March 15. Any Airman who believes he or action medal. she may be eligible can submit an award package for consideration. Photo Sgt. Brian Ferguson by Staff Airmen are eligible for the combat action medal “if their primary role includes per- forming duties in a combat zone, either on the ground or from the air, by entering into an unsecured area away from an established installation,” Mr. Balducci said. “While per- Susan Gamble, designer of the Air Force Combat Action Medal, looks at her work after one of the medals was forming their duties, they must have come pinned on Capt. Allison Black, 1st Special Operations Group, Hurlburt Field, Fla. The captain was one of the under fire or fire upon an enemy to qualify.” first six Airmen to receive the medal. A combat zone is defined as a geographic area for which an Airman receives immi- lieve they may be eligible for the medal, Records. This will apply to posthumous The medal is designed to evoke Air Force nent danger/hostile fire pay. their submission must include a narrative ex- awards as well, he said. heritage, scarlet with diagonal yellow stripes In addition, while encampments, com- – adapted from the art insignia on the air- pounds and protected areas aren’t normally planation of circumstances on an Air Force The medal does come with some restric- qualifying locations for the AFCAM, Form 3994 describing the event, to include tions. For example, only one can be awarded craft of Gen. Billy Mitchell, who coordi- Airmen augmenting a defensive fighting date, time, location and incident details, as during a qualifying period, and for now, op- nated the first air-to-ground offensive in position could be eligible should they meet well as witness statements,” Mr. Balducci erations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi history. Further, the AFCAM features an the award criteria, Mr. Balducci said. said. “That package should be submitted to Freedom count as one eligible time frame. eagle grasping arrows in one talon and an Aircrew members must be flying in direct the first 0-6 (colonel) in their operational In addition, there are no promotion points olive branch in the other, the arrows re- support of a combat zone and in combat. chain of command, who will submit it to for the AFCAM. However, events that flecting preparedness for war while the olive They also must be performing official duties the commander of Air Force forces.” garner the combat action medal also can be branch represents a goal of peace, according and not manifested as a passenger. While Award eligibility is retroactive to Sept. 11, referenced for other decorations, Mr. to official Air Force wear guidance. performing close air support, taking fire from 2001, through a date to be determined and Balducci said. For more information, Airmen should an enemy is not a prerequisite as long as the is available across the total force. Personnel The AFCAM is worn between the Air contact their local military personnel flight Airman is at “great risk,” Mr. Balducci said. no longer on active duty can submit pack- Force Achievement Medal and the Air Force or the Air Force Contact Center at DSN “For Airmen still on active duty who be- ages to the Board for Correction of Military Presidential Unit Citation. 665-5000 or (800) 616-3775.

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E-mail: [email protected] www.webster.edu/co Classes Begin October 15 Welcoming New Patients 9480 Briar Village Point, Suite 301 • (719) 522-0123 SPACE OBSERVER www.peterson.af.mil Thursday, September 27, 2007 15 Happ eni n gs Titanic exhibit open at Denver Museum of Nature and Science By Nel Lampe nosaurs and exhibits tracing what Colorado, CSMNG Kansas and Nebraska looked like millions of The Denver Museum of Nature and years ago when giant creatures roamed. Science is one of the largest museums in the Filled with bones from prehistoric di- country, with about a million visitors each nosaurs, mammoths and fish, the exhibits year. Still in its original building, which has start with the Cambrian Era — 4,000 million been expanded and renovated over its 107- years ago. The exhibit progresses through the year history, the exhibits are first class. Permian Period, the Triassic Period, the Exhibits range from prehistoric to space, Jurassic Period and finally, the Cretaceous from gems and minerals to American Indian. Period in which the dinosaurs lived. There’s surely something of interest to Visitors will see displays depicting Colorado everyone. as a rain forest 50 million years ago and Kansas A special exhibit presently in the museum with a coastline. See the displays of giant pig- attracting a lot of visitors is “Titanic, the like animals that once were in Nebraska. Artifact Exhibition.” It will be in the museum Space Odyssey is a multi-million dollar ex- until Jan. 6, 2008. The Titanic has its own hibit that opened a few years ago. It is very admission fee, which is $10 for adults and $8 popular with youngsters and has several in- for children, in addition to general museum teractive exhibits. admission. Servicemembers and their fami- There’s a Mars Outpost; visitors learn about lies will only have to pay the special admis- Mars’ geology and how wind affected the ter- Photo by Nel Lampe sion fee as entrance is free. rain on Mars. Other exhibits include a The Titanic exhibit opened in the Denver Robotic Rover, a Cosmic Explorer and in- museum in June, 95 years after the Titanic frared lenses. Attendants dress in space- sank on April 15, 1912. themed costumes, answer questions and Interest in the Titanic has not waned; the assist at the space exhibits. Museum guides set the 1912 mood as visitors enter the Titanic artifacts exhibit with a “boarding pass” bearing exhibit has been touring since 1994 and has The museum’s Gates Planetarium is the the name of a real passenger who was aboard the ship when it went down. been visited by 18 million people. most advanced planetarium in the world. The Titanic, the largest, most luxurious The digital projection lends realism to the a table in the atrium. and $16. ship in the world was believed to be unsink- audience of 125 people. Buy a ticket for the For information about the museum or The museum is open Fridays and Saturdays able, yet the ship went down on its maiden showing of your choice at the entrance. IMAX showings, call (800) 925-2250 or from 5:15-9 p.m. for the Titanic exhibit only, voyage. Costing $7.5 million when completed Extensive exhibits on North American check the Web site at www.dmns.org. for a special price of $16 for adults and $10 for in 1912, the ship would cost $400 million in Indian cultures, Australia and the South There are lockers and an automated teller ages 3-18. today’s dollars. A first-class ticket on the Pacific Islands are are on the second floor. machine near the main entrance. Strollers The Denver Museum of Nature and White Star Line’s Titanic cost $4,350 in 1912. First-class exhibits on North American and wheelchairs are also available there. Science is in City Park, near Denver Zoo. Today, fare for a large parlor suite, about 12 wildlife, sea mammals and the edge of the Museum hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., every To reach the museum, go to Denver on by 15 feet, would cost $50,000. wild exhibits are also available on that floor. day except Christmas. General museum ad- Interstate 25 north, and take the Colorado A Denver citizen, Margaret Brown, was a Exhibits about Botswana, Africa and South mission is $10 for adults, $8 for the IMAX or exit north to City Park. There are signs for the first-class passenger aboard the Titanic. Later America are on the third floor, as well as Planetarium showing. General admission zoo and museum, which are inside the park. known as “Unsinkable Molly Brown,” she “Explore Colorado” exhibits and the Egyptian and one show cost $15, or $20 for general The museum’s address is 2001 Colorado Ave. helped save passengers and assisted survivors. mummies. admission, IMAX and the planetarium show. There’s free parking in front of the The Titanic was almost four city blocks Other third floor exhibits depict rare birds. Admission for ages 3 to 18 is $6 for general museum. long and as wide as a four-lane interstate It takes time to see all the exhibits in the admission. Combination tickets are $10, $14 Courtesy of the Fort Carson Mountaineer. highway. Denver Museum of Nature and Science, but First-class passengers had a squash court, you may want to schedule time to see an a swimming pool and a grand staircase pan- IMAX film. eled in oak. Luxurious décor and accessories “Back from the Abyss” is about the recovery were in the ship’s first class accommodations, of the Titanic and is a great companion piece and many remnants of that part of the ship to the Titanic artifacts exhibit. It alternates are on display. More than 300 artifacts are in with other IMAX movies in the theater. the exhibit, including a 3,000-pound piece Choose your movie and showing time and of the hull as well as jewelry, money, clothing, purchase tickets at the entrance. bottles and china all recovered from the The Web site www.DMNS.org lists IMAX wreck of the Titanic. and planetarium showings. The wreck was discovered in 1985 by a Visitors are greeted by a Tyrannosaurus Rex joint U.S.-French expedition. Recovery ef- just inside the entrance near the ticket counter. forts were started a few years later. When refreshments are needed, stop by A Titanic gift shop is included in the exhibit. the deli in the atrium, where cold salads, Buy jewelry, books, videos, postcards and other sandwiches and snacks are available, as well Supporting our souvenir selections, including reproduction as soft drinks and coffee. T-Rex Café is dinnerware used in first, second or third class. behind the deli, and offers a large selection Nation’s Military The Titanic exhibit itself is worth the trip of entrees, salad by the ounce, pizza slices, to Denver. cooked-to-order hamburgers and other sand- Other exhibits to see include “Prehistoric wiches, as well as pastries and desserts. A for over 40 years. Journey,” with its very large collection of di- large, quiet dining area is nearby, or choose Call today for details about exciting new military scholarship opportunities.

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What history won’t record is the Security Forces team has been on a four year ride that may culminate this year in a long awaited championship for the team according to two of its spokesmen, Michael Degennaro and Anthony Deromanis. Both Degennaro and Deromanis have been with the team for the past three years and they believe this is the year the team will fulfill its hopes and dreams of winning the base championship because as both men put it, anything less for this team will not be an option. Security Forces enters this year’s intramural flag football season knowing that this will be the last time the “corps” group of players as Deromanis calls them will be together. At least one of the players that has been with the team for the past four years, Degennaro, is leaving for another assign- ment soon after the season is over and more deployments or assignments may be in the future for other players. The players know this is the last go round for this group and Deromanis said that has given them more incentive to make this the year to claim a championship. “The key for us is having a corps of guys, Jamie Hyder, Michael Messina, Marcus Taylor, Degennaro and myself Photo by Walt Johnson that have been together for the past four years and we help guide this team. That has helped us be in the top five teams on base for the past four years. It’s kind of hard to keep our team together in our career field because we are continuing to deploy six months on and six months off, 721st Security Forces quarterback Anthony Deromanis, right, looks to elude defensive pressure during intramural action Thursday at the Peterson so its special to us that we still have the same guys here softball complex. year after year to help us keep this going,” Deromanis said Because they have the same people to try to capture a The team’s coaches in the first year tried to put the team If anyone thinks this team is going to be full of itself and title doesn’t mean this team has had an easy time of it in through a scripted program that didn’t suit its talent well. not play hard Degennaro said the difference between the team the past three years. The team’s progression has come in For season two the team dropped its coaches and the players that began together four years ago and today is the confi- stages which saw it play for the championship last year after decided to let all the scripted activity become a thing of the dence it brings to the game. He said they have so much re- climbing the ladder in the playoffs the previous two years. past and rely on its athleticism to win games. spect from the other teams in the league. “Each year we have pushed farther and farther in the Degennaro said this is what the team needed because it “Our goal this year is to definitely take the championship. playoffs and last year was real nice because we got to the has a lot of people with different character traits that makes We’ve been too close in the past couple of years and espe- base championship game. We lost that game when we went this team what it is. He said under the structured system, the cially since this is my last year I want to get the champi- for two points and the win instead of getting the one point team may not have been able to do what it is doing now, onship before I leave. Our mindset is that losing the and getting a tie and going into overtime,” Deromanis said. which is work with the many personalities that make it an championship this year is not an option. The Security Forces team does not take its standing at effective team. “Last year we were seconds away from pulling out a cham- the top of the intramural lot for granted as it has had to “We now have a system where we really don’t have a coach, pionship. We had to beat the number one team twice and climb from a team that had to get to know each other to a but we have everyone contribute to what we do and rec- we did beat them once and was a two point conversion away team that feels it is on the brink of a title. ommend things. We are the kind of team that likes to let our from doing it twice. We know what it takes to win and we Four years ago when the team playing today was assem- guys fly and let them do their thing. The guys seem to re- feel we have learned and grown even more since last year. bled there were some factors that limited the athletic ability spond well without the structured system and the guidance We are ready to take it up a notch and our expectations of the team according to Degennaro and Deromanis. of coaches,” Deromanis said. can’t be any less,” Degennaro said.

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PPetersoneterson AAthletethlete ofof thethe WWeekeek

Name: Brent Trickel Athlete Biathlonof Athletethe Week

Brent Trickel is an athlete that likes to get involved with events like the POW/MIA run held at Peterson Friday. Trickel got back on a dedicated fitness program he said about a year and a half ago in what he says was one of the best decisions of his life. He says that being in good physical condition and participating in events like the fun run is a great way to stay in shape and continue to be active in life. Why is it important for you to do the POW/MIA run? BT: I do this to help bring recognition to the fact that we still have comrades out there some- where. Some may be alive and some may be dead, but the fact that we don’t know of their status means we need to bring awareness to this issue. This is just a small thing that I can do to bring publicity to this event. What got you into running? BT: All through high school I was a wrestler. I stayed in shape when wrestling and then I fell out of shape other than being ready for our annual fitness test in the Navy. I had some free time on my hands about a year and a half ago and I decided to get back to a fitness pro- gram. I started working out again and it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. What has been your favorite moment in your sports life? BT: In 1988, I won the Missouri state wrestling championship in high school. Getting to stand on that podium in front of thousand of people as a young 17-year-old is definitely a highlight of my life. I haven’t done anything quite that exciting in the sports world since then. What has been your favorite moment in professional sports? BT: Watching the Kansas City Royals win the 1985 World Series. The runner was obvi- ously out at first base, I’m man enough to admit it because even a blind man could see he was safe. If you could, what would you change about sports today? BT: I would definitely make a playoff in Division I college football. I would do away with the Bowl Championship series. If you could talk to any sports figure, who would it be and what would you talk about? BT: I would like to talk to Steve Young (former San Francisco 49er quarterback and now a pro football Hall of Fame inductee). I think he was the epitome of what an athlete should be. He was always a professional and a sportsman. He also did a number of good things out- side of his football life like going back to Brigham Young University and getting his law degree. For a man to look beyond sports in that way, showed that on the field and off the field he was a true professional. I would like to talk to him about his decision to retire, which because of the concussions was obviously the right decision. Compiled by Walt Johnson

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NFL College 1. Packers vs. Vikings 9. W. Virginia vs. S. Florida 2. Bears vs. Lions 10. Alabama vs. Fla. State 3. Rams vs. Cowboys 11. Air Force vs. Navy 4. Seahawks vs. 49ers 12. California vs. Oregon 5. Steelers vs. Cardinals 13. USC vs Washington 6. Broncos vs. Colts 14. Maryland vs. Rutgers 7. Eagles vs. Giants 15. Temple vs. Army 8. Patriots vs. Bengals 16. Clemson vs. Ga. Tech

Josh Fly Mike Messina 21 st 721st SFS Services 1. Packers, 1. Packers, 2. Bears, 2. Lions, 3. Cowboys, 3. Cowboys, 4. 49ers, 4. 49ers, 5. Steelers, Charles Chestnut 5. Steelers, 6. Colts, Francene Reichard 6. Broncos, 100th GMD 7. Giants, HQ USNORTHCOM/J3 7. Eagles, 8. Patriots, 1. Packers, 2. Lions, 3. Cowboys, 8. Patriots, 1. Packers, 2. Bears, 3. Cowboys, 9. West Virginia, 4. Seahawks, 5. Steelers, 6. Colts, 9. West Virginia, 4. 49ers, 5. Steelers, 6. Colts, 10. Alabama, 10. Alabama, 7. Eagles, 8. Patriots, 7. Giants, 8. Patriots, 11. Air Force, 11. Air Force, 9. West Virginia, 10. Alabama, 12. California, 12. California, 9. West Virginia, 10. Alabama, 11. Air Force, 12. California, 13. USC, 13. USC, 11. Air Force, 12. Oregon 13. USC, 14. Rutgers, 15. Temple, 16. 14. Rutgers, 14. Rutgers, 13. USC, 14. Rutgers, 15. Army, 15. Army, 15. Army, Clemson 16. Clemson 16. Georgia Tech 16. Georgia Tech Compiled by Walt Johnson

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*Promotion, prices, specifications, square footage and availability subject to change without notice. To be eligible to receive up to a $12,000.00 gift card to The Home Depot® 1) sign Purchase Agreement between September 14, 2007 and December 8, 2007 2) close the transaction on or before December 31, 2007 3) qualify for financing through John Laing Mortgage “Eligible Buyer.” For purposes of qualifying for financing through John Laing Mortgage, the sales price of the home will be reduced by the value of the gift card. Therefore, buyers who require a loan greater than 80% of the home’s sales price may not qualify for this promotion, and will not be deemed an Eligible Buyer. Other promotions of equal value may be available. The term “select, ready-to-move-in homes” means only substantially completed homes available at the commencement of this promotion. The Home Depot® gift card will be presented to Eligible Buyers after closing on the home. WL Homes LLC, d/b/a John Laing Homes is not responsible for lost or stolen The Home Depot® gift cards. John Laing Homes will interpret these rules and resolve any disputes, conflicting claims or ambiguities concerning the rules of the promotion and John Laing Homes’ decisions shall be final. The Home Depot® is a registered trademark of Homer TLC, Inc. John Laing Homes is not affiliated with The Home Depot.® The Home Depot® is not a sponsor of this promotion.