Remain in Touch

Freedom Through Vigilance Association

Annual History

October 2017 – September 2018

Objective

The overall objectives of the Freedom Through Vigilance Association (FTVA) are to foster continued awareness of the mission and accomplishments of the United States Air Force, in general, and specifically those of the 25 Air Force – and to provide Association members a forum for desirable social, educational and humanitarian services.

Period of history

This history covers October 2017 – September 2018 and spans the social year of the FTVA.

Organization

The Kelly AFB Commander, Col. John Webb, organized the Freedom Through Vigilance Association, formerly known as the USAFSS/ESC Association and the USAFSS/ESC Alumni Association, on October 26, 1981, with the approval of the Association’s Constitution and Bylaws. The Alumni charter was granted on December 2, 1981. William T. Ballard was the chartering president.

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ASSOCIATION OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS

Executive Board Ted Colquhoun President Evan Smith Vice President Lee Anthony Treasurer Loren (Phred) Sevening Secretary Ron Haygood Past President Directors

Roy Burnett Membership Chairman/Web Support Mark Hess Vigilant Partners Coordinator A. J. Harrison Hall of Honor Coordinator Lee Anthony Special Activities Coordinator and Fallen Eagles Database Admin. Ken Williams Social Activities Chairman Dennis Buxton Newsletter Editor Joe ‘Pepito’ Figueroa Associate Newsletter Editor Ken Maynard Associate Newsletter Editor Barnie Gavin FTVA Historian Bob Benitez Golf Tournament Coordinator Jacque Lerma Picnic Coordinator Jerry Gething President, Mid-Atlantic Region Chapter Ronald Graham President, Heritage Chapter John Toillion President, Aloha Chapter John Aurelius President Gold Country Chapter George Eichelberger President, Rocky Mountain Chapter Barnie Gavin President, Alamo Chapter Bob Sherwood Director Emeritus Doug Holden Director Emeritus Joe Hurst Director Emeritus Jim McLendon Director Emeritus Bob Cope Director/Treasurer Emeritus

Steve Doucette SLO, 25 AF Advisory Member

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FTVA Hall of Honor Selections

The FTVA Hall of Honor (HoH) selection committee takes great pleasure in announcing this year’s selections for induction into the FTVA Hall of Honor for 2018. On behalf of the committee, I am pleased to announce the following individuals will be honored at the 28 September 2018 induction ceremony:

Mr. Keith D. Thomas, DISL, USAF (Ret)

Lt Col Douglas K. Kleist, USAF (Ret)

Capt Albert R. Turner Jr., USAF (Ret)

SMSgt Doris E. Keeton, USAF (Ret) (Deceased)

Please join me in congratulating these individuals and their families.

The following FTVA HoH members comprised this year’s selection committee: Brig Gen Grover Jackson, USAF (Ret); Lt Col Ken Williams, USAF ((Ret)); CMSgt Bob Crabtree, USAF (Ret); CMSgt Ed Jolly, USAF (Ret); CMSgt Bob Egger, USAF (Ret); CMSgt Marco Aldaz, USAF (Ret); CMSgt Edward Barnes, USAF (Ret); and SMSgt Lee Anthony, USAF (Ret). Many thanks to the committee members for their volunteer time and hard work in determining this year’s class of inductees.

Thank you and Remain In Touch,

A.J. Harrison, Hall of Honor Program Chair

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25THAIRFORCENEWS Compiled by Ken Maynard, Associate Editor 25 AF Releases Revised Mission, Vision, Priorities Statements Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas (18 Jan 18) 25 AF Mission, Vision and Priorities

25 AF Mission, Vision and Priorities

Twenty-Fifth Air Force officials released new mission, vision and priorities statements today, highlighting the capabilities 25th Air Force Airmen provide the Air Force and Joint teams and how 25th Air Force is postured to adapt to a dynamically-changing national security environment.

The new mission statement is: “We execute worldwide intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance to protect and defend the United States and its global interests.”

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The new vision statement is: “We will employ innovative ISR, Cyber, & EW capabilities, fully integrated into joint multidomain operations, to detect, disrupt, deter, destroy, and defeat our adversaries.” The new priorities are: Plan and Execute Today’s Fight; Restore Readiness, Drive Innovation, and Anticipate Tomorrow; Develop and Strengthen our Dedicated Professionals and their Families; and Integrate 24th Air Force and 25th Air Force Missions and Capabilities. “These new mission, vision and priorities statements more accurately reflect who we are and the capabilities our Airmen provide,” said Maj. Gen. Mary O’Brien, 25th Air Force commander. “Unpredictable fiscal resources, emerging technologies, and an increasingly-complex and dangerous world are some of the variables driving us to revise these fundamental statements. What hasn’t changed is our Airmen – they’re incredible and doing amazing things.

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Cobra Ball Receives New Nose Art Artist Gets Up-Close Look Adapted from an article by 55th Wing Public Affairs

Offutt Air Force Base, Neb. -- An RC-135S Cobra Ball assigned to the 55th Wing here was the latest aircraft to receive nose art as part of an effort to bring back a popular tradition used during World War II where units decorated their aircraft to display unit pride.

The design’s artist, Jerrica Skipper, traveled here Jan. 23 to see the nose art, which will now be permanently displayed on the reconnaissance aircraft for years to come as it carries out missions across the world.

“It’s crazy that I was able to get this opportunity,” said Skipper. “I never thought something like this would happen to me in little Carriere, Mississippi.”

It was only by chance that she got the opportunity. It started when maintainers in the 83rd Aircraft Maintenance Unit squadron began looking for a good artist.

“After having different nose art discussions with my wife, Marcia, we reached out to her brother, Dustin Black, a Chevron engineer based in Mobile, Alabama,” said retired Air Force Master Sgt. Rick Brown who was assigned to the 83rd AMU.

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Her brother, a former military service-member, also appreciated nose art. He mentioned the need for a talented artist with his colleague, who said he knew of a “brilliant” artist named Jerrica Skipper. Once the connection was made, Brown discussed their vision with her and provided a patch previously worn by crewmembers in the 1960s and 70s. From there, she took the concept and ran with it.

Brown said the design is symbolic of the aircraft’s mission.

“The ball represents the Earth, the purple part with the star is the missile coming up from the earth and the snake, which represents the aircraft, is protecting the Earth,” Brown said.

As part of Skipper’s visit, Brown gave her a personal tour of the aircraft where she received a letter of appreciation along with mementos from the 55th Maintenance Group.

Skipper said she’s been drawing and painting since grade school and was excited to be a part of such a unique opportunity.

“I’ve always had a love for art and [mixed martial arts],” Skipper said. “It’s how I express myself; through art and fighting. I like to paint with passion and energy.”

Nose art has historically been a tradition led by maintainers. The maintainers at Offutt often work in the worst of weather, both here and deployed, to make sure 55th Wing aircraft are capable of carrying out the wing’s global intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

Brown said nose art is important to the morale of those units.

“It instills pride and honor in the maintainers who experience the constant pressure and grind of keeping these aircraft flying,” Brown said. “Nose art is more than a piece of art – it is a symbol of the maintainers’ dedication and perseverance to ensuring freedom for all.”

Col. Clayton Seale, the 55th Maintenance Group commander agreed.

"Nose Art is a direct link to our history and heritage and it is a way for the maintainers to show pride and ownership in their aircraft,” Seale said. “It will be a great day when the last aircraft at Offutt gets its unique art work applied. We are working very hard to make that a reality in the near future."

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HISTORY & MEMORIES

Ed. Note: The following began as an email exchange between two old friends and USAFSS alumni; over the weeks it evolved into a fascinating snapshot look back into time at USAFASS at a place few current and fairly recent command personnel know of. This was provided by Ken Rundine, who did his ‘time’ at Wheelus AB, Tripoli, Libya where the USAF presence ended in mid-1970. The below has been pieced together and redacted in an attempt to provide an historical memory of Ken’s 18-months at Wheelus.

Memories of Wheelus By Ken Rundine As told (in part) to Ray M. Thompson

I was a Radio Traffic Analyst at the 34th Radio Squadron Mobile at Wheelus Field Tripoli Libya. Otherwise AKA //expletive deleted//. Anyway, I shipped overseas in Spring of 1952 and spent 18 months tour there. We landed at Bremerhaven Germany and then went to Weisbaden and Frankfurt. After about 3 months they reassigned us to the 34th RSM and because of that we flew to Landsberg, Germany and landed there to pick up a couple of guys going with us. We were in a C-47 that had no seats - we threw in our "bag and baggage" as they said. We flew thru the Alps (not over) to Rome for fuel - then on to Wheelus. At that time Wheelus was a Military Air Transport Base (MATS) and when we arrived (maybe April 1952) they treated us like aliens. By that I mean we could only eat after they ate. Rations were sometimes short and some foods ran out. When I was stationed at Wheelus we lived in tents all but the last month of our 18-month tour. Our antenna field was almost on the beach of the Mediterranean Sea and our operations building was between the sea and the end of the NS runway. Top Secret Operations was on the east side of the runway and we had truck transportation to take us from the NE of the runway to the SW of the runway where the MATS mess hall was located. Our tents were over there too. We lived in 6 men tents but we had a permanent latrine. We drank out of a Lister bag. (Ed. What’s a “Lister” bag? A MATS? You ask? Check out the photos below that Ken so kindly provided).

(Right) The Pause That Refreshes. Ken Rudine (me) getting a drink of water from a Lister bag. (it sweats for a cooling effect) (Below Left) What? No Camel? Ken posing with the primary means of transportation for tooling around Wheelus (and the desert!). (Center) Tent City – Wood Floors. 6 Men to a tent.

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Our Gang. We rode the truck to the MATS base from work. Aubrey D Smith, Kenneth L Paris, Virgil O Bales, John J Geary, James L Hyden, Charles D Butter, Francis G Stein, Donald E Steinhoff. Personnel Officer was Lt. Robert DE Armond.

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BARON-52 45thAnniversary (How Can It Be So Long Ago, Yet Still So Fresh In Our Memories?)

IN MEMORIAM ********************** On this forty fifth anniversary of the loss of some of our own, let us pause to pay respect to their memories and to remember their surviving family members.

The loss of the 8-man crew of BARON 52, an EC-47Q reconnaissance aircraft (Tail #636), flown by a 4-man reconnaissance flight crew from the 361st Tactical 1973 - 2018 Electronic Warfare Squadron (TEWS) occurred in the early morning hours These were our reconnaissance brothers of February 5, 1973. And they are our heroes They made the ultimate sacrifice The 4-man USAF Security Service Paid the ultimate price reconnaissance crew were members of Detachment 3, 6994th Security Squadron located at Ubon We Still Remember! RTAB, in southeast Thailand (formerly operating from Da Nang ********************** AB, Republic of Vietnam).

This mission was launched from Ubon Royal Thai Air Base February 4, 1973 at 2305 hours (local Thailand time)

The aircraft and crew came under anti-aircraft fire on February 5, 1973 around 0130 hours approximately 45 miles southeast of Saravane in the Steel Tiger area of Laos while on a nighttime unarmed reconnaissance mission near the Ho Chi Minh Trail. At last radio contact, shortly after reporting in and stating that they were taking enemy fire and were altering course the crew gave an "all clear” signal. This occurred sometime between 0140 hours and 0200 hours.

The incident occurred 9 days after the formal signing of the Peace Accords between the U.S. and both North and South Vietnam, "ending hostilities" in Vietnam. Laos was NOT a signatory to this agreement. (They entered a separate agreement in the latter part of February.)

Much has been reported on, and speculated about, concerning the cause of the "loss incident" and the ultimate disposition of the reconnaissance crew. The mostly burned wreckage, laying inverted, was located by reconnaissance photos two days after the loss. A 3-man rescue/recovery team entered into the location of the downed aircraft on the fourth day, the 9th of February; two para-rescue men and one USAF Security Service specialist. (A planned fourth member was in another helicopter that had to abort its mission). The 40-minute crash site examination revealed only four bodies of the eight-member crew with 10

no survivors at the crash site and no other remains visible. The bodies that were found, possibly protected from the fire by their Nomex flight suits, were members of the 361st TEWS flight crew, with all but one crewmember suspended upside down in their seats by their shoulder harnesses, still in their assigned crew positions. Due to a helicopter fuel shortage, the three men were extracted with the body of just one recovered crewmember. Suffice it to say at this writing that the entire eight-man crew has not been fully nor acceptably accounted for, albeit one (Lt. Bernhardt), whose partial-remains were retrieved from the wreckage. He was buried by his family in 1973.

The crash site was re-entered and excavated in January 1993, with very few signs of any human existence. All archeological findings were sent to CIL-HI, the U.S. Army laboratories in Hawaii, for possible identification.

In 1996, a lone casket containing approximately 29 unidentified bone fragments (few could be verified as human bones and a tooth) representing the remaining 7 crewmembers, was interred at Arlington National Cemetery with family members of two of the crew present. These two USAFSS families were the Cressmans and the Matejovs. All families had to agree to accept an Air Force finding of Killed-In- Action/Body-Not-Recovered status so that a formal military memorial and burial could take place for all remaining crewmembers. The Air Force then formally closed the case on BARON 52.

Two families have not! Today, one family has the findings under appeal to the Air Staff. These heroic crew members names follow: 361st TEWS Flight Crewmembers Captain George Spitz (Pilot) 2nd Lt. Robert Bernhardt (Co-pilot) 2nd Lt. Severo Primm III (3rd pilot) Captain Arthur Bollinger (Navigator) 6994th USAFSS Intelligence Crewmembers SSgt. Todd Melton Sgt. Joe Matejov (Airborne Mission Supervisor) Sgt. Pete Cressman Sgt. Dale Brandenburg

They Served with Honor And Gave Their All BARON-52

INTELL SQUADRON HONORS BARON 52 VIETNAM VETS Adapted from an article by SSgt Alexandre Montes, 70 ISRW/PA

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Ed. Note: The following poem was originally published in late 1998 to commemorate the Anniversary of the Air Intelligence Agency (AIA). I came upon it by accident in the paper archives I inherited from my mentor, Rass, and since it’s 20 years later, my impression is it is as germane today as it was then. I struggled a bit with the meter, so mentally try to get the right cadence. Y’all know about cadence, right?

“AIR INTELLIGENCE AGENCY (AIA) “It’s happy anniversary time for A I A., A great organization what more can we say? The past fifty years have seen some change in its name, But the pride, honor, and integrity still remain the same. In the early years, we were tenants on each base, Housed in the oldest buildings, with very little space. It did not affect our mission, even one iota, We got the job done and at times beat our quota. Most base commanders thought we were a ‘spooky” bunch, They even implied that at their parties, we tried to spike their punch. So they notified the base police to watch our every move, But we, being resourceful, any misdeed was hard to prove. Again, we gave the commanders the mystery of their lives. How such a bunch of characters could marry such charming wives. When there was a local disaster or charity affair, Our personnel were always there first, with their fair share. In the wars of Korea, Vietnam and Desert Storm, Performance of our duty was far above the norm. Whether in a ground unit, or on an airborne flight, Accomplishment of mission was always kept in sight. So ‘Happy Anniversary’ from members present and past. May our success and prestige last, and last and last.

//Signed// M.F. “Pete” Palmer 15 October 1998

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ARLINGTON, Va. — During the Vietnam War, intelligence Airmen were crucial to ground forces and decision makers. These warriors used intelligence to triangulate the position of adversaries from onboard an EC-47Q electronic warfare collection aircraft, or ‘Electric Goon,’ tail number 43-48636, call-sign BARON 52. On Feb. 5, 1973, eight Airmen set out on a mission to locate tanks along the Ho Chi Min trail. Those Airmen lost their lives aboard Baron 52, the last EC- 47Q lost during the Vietnam War. The crew of eight were assigned to Detachment 3, 6994th SS, and the 361st TEWS. Those Airmen’s heritage is being commemorated by the 94th IS Squadron at Fort Meade, Maryland. Since 2014, the Airmen of the 94th IS have invited Vietnam Veteran Airmen from the 6994th SS and 361st TEWS to a commemoration ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C. to honor those who sacrificed their lives during the Vietnam War.

“There were numerous sacrifices of these brave Airmen, as part of their mission being above the combat zone. ‘Alone, unarmed and unafraid,’ they had the highest casualty rate in the Security Services,” said Lt. Col. Laura Bunyan, 94th IS commander. “Today, the men and women of the 94th IS pay tribute to those who came before us and pledge to always remember the sacrifices of 6994th SS, to include the crews of TIDE 86, CAP 72, PRONG 33, CAP 53, BARON 56 and BARON 52.” Buynan explained that the current Airmen are somberly reminded of their predecessor’s sacrifices and honored to have the Veterans among them for the annual commemoration.

The guest speaker for this year’s commemoration was retired Master Sgt. Joe Martin, formerly of the 6994th SS and a Morse Code operator. Martin explained to attendees the significance of Security Service Airmen’s missions. “Today, there is a war going on that started way before 9/11, and there is no end in sight,” Martin said. “The 94th IS and similar units are our first line of defense in that conflict. Carrying out that mission, you’ve enriched a heritage going far beyond the 6994th SS and its war.” Beginning with Security Service, Electronic Security Command, Air Intelligence Agency and now 25th Air Force, Martin said today’s 94th IS Airmen are the latest in a long line of silent warriors who labor in the shadows on signals intelligence. As he closed out his remarks, Martin further commended the Airmen of the 94th IS. “It can be a tough, and often a thankless job,” he said. “Just as we did in that other war so long ago, you’ll do it and will do it well.” Closing out the ceremony, Buynan and Martin laid a wreath alongside the tomb that honors the Airmen of BARON 52.

Shortly after, the names of those killed in action aboard BARON 52 were spoken by 2nd Lt. Erica Volino, 94th IS, and a moment of silence was observed.

“From the 361st TEWS, Capt. George R. Spitz, pilot; 1st Lt. Servero Primm III, co-pilot; Capt. Arthur Bollinger, navigator; 1st Lt. Robert E. Bernhardt, third pilot and from the 6994th SS, Staff Sgt. Todd M. Melton, airborne cryptologic linguist; Sergeant Joseph A. Matejov, airborne Morse systems operator; Sergeant Peter R. Cressman, airborne Morse systems operator; Sergeant Dale Brandenburg, airborne electronic warfare systems operator.” 13

FALLEN EAGLES

We have learned of the following losses from caring relatives, friends or obituaries and we offer prayers and sympathy to loved ones. “It is the soldier above all others who prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.” D. MacArthur

Andersen, Robert (Andy) N., Colonel (Ret), 94, USAFSS; Angel, Robert D., USAFSS; Autio, Clyde F., Maj Gen (Ret), FTVA Lifetime Member; Balog, Kenneth A., MSgt (ret), USAFSS; Bedell, Charles H. III, SMSgt (ret), USAFSS; Benningfield, Edward L., CMSgt (ret), USAFSS FTVA Member; Bentz, Timothy R., MSgt (ret), USAFSS; Bohannon, Edwin G., USAFSS; Borland, Isaac H., USAFSS, FTVA Lifetime Member; Bouchard, John C., MSgt (ret), USAF; Brennan, Robert (Bob), USAFSS; Brewer, Robert (Bob) L., USAFSS; Brightbill, Royal A., USAFSS; Cabral, Duarte D., USAFSS; Carey, Robert E.; Cassady, Frank J.; Childs, Ray; Christenot, Gary, Brian, Capt; Chulick John; Clinton, Henry, M., MSgt (ret), USAFSS, FTVA Lifetime Member; Cohenour, Brian “Conehead”, MSgt; Collins, Norman W., USAFSS; Coleman, Roy C., CMSgt (ret), USAFSS; Connelley, Martin Henry; MSgt; Courville, Rene E., USAFSS; Cragun, Ben TSgt; Craver, Samuel M. M., MSgt (ret), USAFSS; Cross, Curtis E., MSgt (ret), USAFSS; Cunningham, James F.; Dankovich, John J., USAFSS; Curran, Ronald J., USAFSS; Darcangelo, Daniel L.; Davis, Jay D., USAFSS; Darnell, Bobby, SMSgt (Ret), USAFSS; DeArmon, Kenneth W., CMSgt (ret), USAFSS; Denver, Arnold D. SSgt; DiBaggio, Anthony J., Col (ret), USAFSS Order of Sword Recipient 1979; Dorn, John E., USAFSS; Dorsey, Darryl S., USAFSS; Dover, Denver A., SSgt (ret), USAFSS; Drake, James, E., MSgt (ret), USAFSS; Duarte, Cabral D.; Dunlap, John S., USAFSS; Dunn, Benjamin “BD”, CMSgt (ret), USAFSS; Durst, Joseph M.; Dunlap, Patrick (Pat), USAFSS; DuRei, Terry, A., USFSS; Everett, Gerry, MSgt (ret), USAFSS; Ferguson, Wilson “Fergie”, TSgt; Fitton, John; Fitzhugh, William A., USAFSS; Fleegle, Donald R., CMSgt (ret), USAFSS FTVA Member; Flynn, James F., USAFSS, FTVA Member; Frasur, Eugene USAFSS, FTVA Member; Gallagher, Robert, USAFSS Gehri,”Mike” Michael D., SMSgt (ret), USAFSS FTVA Member; Gilmore, Joseph E., USAFSS; Goff, Donald R. "Don", SSgt (ret), USAFSS FTVA Lifetime Member; Gomes, Joseph R., USAFSS; Goode, James L., CMSgt (ret), USAFSS; Greene, James M., CMSgt (ret), USAFSS; Gronlund, Sherwin (Sherm) R., USAFSS; Guthrie, Charles W., USAFSS; Halpin, John Patrick, CMSgt (ret), USAFSS; Henderson, Basil, L., MSgt (ret), USAFSS; Hensley, Charlie; Henson, Orville L.; Heyen, Henry J., SMSgt (ret), ESC; Hicok, Robert E., SMSgt (Ret), USAF; Hollifield, Francis M., CMSgt (Ret), FTVA Lifetime Member; Hopkins, James. D., TSgt (Ret), USAFSS; House, John E., SMSgt (ret), Hull, Donald D “Handsome”; USAFSS; Johnson, Allen Ervin, USAFSS; Johnson, Howard R., Col (Ret), USAFSS; Jolly, Delano R., MSgt (ret), USAFSS, FTVA Hall of Honor; Joseph, “Butch” Arthur; Jung, Helen R., USAFSS; Kee, John E., SMSgt (Ret), FTVA Lifetime Member; Keeter, Aubrey C., MSgt (Ret), FTVA Lifetime Member; Keeton, Doris, E., SMSgt (Ret), USAF; Kerber, Robert F., USAFSS; Knipschield, Larry, USAFSS; Koetterhagen, Jerome, SSgt; Kozell, Harry L., USAFSS; Kuhl, Eric., USAFSS; Kuntz, David T., Col (ret), USAFSS, FTVA Lifetime Member; Lance, Karl M., USAFSS; Lipham, Doreen, FTVA Lifetime Member;

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Livings, Melvin, J., USAFSS; London, Joseph C., USAFSS, FTVA Lifetime Member; Lucas, Charles T. Lt Col; Martens, William R., USAFSS; McDonald, Darrius, MSgt; McLenegan, Harry J.; Merryman, Frank P., USAFSS; Miller, Henry MSgt; Miller, Randolph, A. USAF; Minichino, John; Moldenhauer, Neil, USAFSS; Moore, John E., USAFSS; Moore, Willis F., ESC/AFIC; Murphy, William Franklin “Bill”, USAFSS; Nelson, Janet (spouse of Dale Nelson), FTVA Lifetime Member; Nelson, Myron C., MSgt (ret), USAFSS; Newhall, David S., TSgt; Nikolauk, John, Col (ret), USAF; Norwood, James A., CMSgt (Ret), USAF; Ondrejech, Ray V, Lt Col; Pattillo, Jimmy R., USAFSS; Pirkle, Albert Q., TSgt (Ret), USAFSS; Petersen, Ted A., SMSgt (ret), USAFSS; Posey, Bobbie W.; Puckett, Russell E., MSgt (Ret), USAFSS FTVA Lifetime Member; Quinn, Robert J., Lt Col, USAFSS, FTVA Lifetime Member; Rhea, Earl W., CWO; Robbins, Joel D., MSgt (ret), FTVA Member; Rosenberger, Albert S "Rosie", FTVA Lifetime Member; Schultz, Leon John, USAFSS; Schwarz, Brian L. SrA; Scott, Vern D. Shackleford, Carroll H., USAFSS; Shackelford, Edward E., Maj (Ret), FTVA Lifetime Member; Sheehan, Charles, A1C; Sherburne, Guy A., SMSgt (ret), USAFSS, FTVA Lifetime Member; Simms, John B., USAFSS; Smith, Brad R., Sgt, USAFSS; Smith, Edward D., USAFSS; Smith, Robert C., MSgt (Ret), FTVA Lifetime Member; Smith, Roger D., SMSgt (ret), USAFSS; Soda, Anthony, USAFSS, FTVA Lifetime Member; Spaulding, Vernon C., USAFSS; Spears, Donald G., SMSgt (ret), USAFSS FTVA Lifetime Member; Stewart, Donald, CMSgt (ret), USAFSS FTVA Member; Stoeffler, Clyde W., USAFSS; Stooksberry, L. Keith; Sundin, Dennis J., USAFSS; Sutton, Stephen (Steve) Warren, Col (ret) USAF; Dr.Tart, Robert Carlyle , Jr. “PopTart”, USAFSS; Taylor, Adrian E. “Buddy”; Taylor, Edwin W., Lt Col (ret), US Army FTVA Member; Taylor, Myron, CMSgt (ret) USAFSS FTVA Lifetime Member; Tennant, Margaret, Spouse of CMSgt (ret) Thomas Tennant; Theriot, Jerry J., USAFSS; Theriot, Jerry J.; Tinnirella, Herman W.B., CMSgt (ret) USAFSS; Thomas, James B., USAFSS; Thornton, Robert H.; Tucker, Clarence L. SSgt; Tucker, Coy G., USAFSS; Turner, Bryan, SSgt (Active Duty), USAF; Turner, Otis C., Maj (ret) USAFSS; Van Over, James H.; Wade, Leonard J., USAFSS; Weddle, Bruce D., MSgt, USAFSS; Whitfield, Ernest L. MSgt (ret), USAFSS; Woods, Ronald E..

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FTVA VIGILANT PARTNER PROGRAM As of September, 2018

PLATINUM PARTNERS

Mrs. Doyle E. Larson (IMO Maj Gen Doyle E. Larson) Prop Wash Gang General Dynamics Information Technology

GOLD PARTNERS

To The Penny Tax Services Engrave-Tech & Graphics Security Service Federal Credit Union Air Force Federal Credit Union William F. Sheck USAFSS Roll Call

SILVER PARTNERS

Anthony F. Jensen 6988th SS, 698th ESS & 488 IS Alumni and Active Duty Members William Springett Grover Jackson Arrowhead Electric Service Regis F.A. Urschler “Picnic Partners” Greg Radabaugh Grant and June Howells & Ken and Hide Lantz (IHO The Doggers) “Sparky” Rogers (IMO Col Duane Russell and Capt Rory Foran) Donald Bundy

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BRONZE PARTNERS

Henry Whitney BJ Cook (IMO CMSgt (Ret) John Sinnard and CMSgt (Ret) AC Chamblee) William F. McCarthy Bob & Debbie Cope (IMO of CMSgt (Ret) Tom Tennant) Ronald Hentz (IHO Col (Ret) Bob Cope) Larry and Alice Boyce E.W. Forbess

PATRON PARTNERS

Mark and Amy Hess James Mayer Richard Sacchetti Charles Bishop Perry Eisenhower

*//Platinum Partner $2,500 +//Gold Partner $ 1,000 - $2,499//// Silver Partner $500- $999// Bronze Partner $ 250 - $499// Patron Partner $ 100 - $249

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FREEDOM THROUGH VIGILANCE ASSOCIATION

P.O. Box 691616 San Antonio, Texas 788269-1616

1. September 30, 2017 FTVA ANNUAL GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING. After Vice president Ted Colquhoun determined we had a quorum, President Ron Haygood called the meeting to order at 0933 hours in the Security Service Federal Credit Union Board Room, 6211 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, Texas.

2. Attendee who traveled the Farthest: Jerry Gething, Baltimore, Maryland.

3. Attendee with the earliest employment connection: Mr. Bob Finch, affiliation began in 1952.

4. Reading of the Minutes: Minutes of the September 2016 FTVA General Membership Meeting were read and approved.

5. Treasurer’s report: Col Cope presented the report providing a summary of activity and current status. Advised that Lee Anthony had offered to assume Treasurer responsibilities. Col Haygood took a moment to thank the Copes for their long and faithful service.

6. VIGILANT PARTNERS Update: Col Mark Hess provided an update on the Vigilant Partners program and its continued success. He took a moment to highlight the faithful contributions over the years of BG Neal Robinson, who will be missed. Jerry Gething made it known that his company, All American Intelligence Solutions, would pledge to match the annual contribution that BG Robinson had consistently made. Col Haygood thanked SSFCU for their support through the years and noted that there were several other companies with a large footprint in the Command that could be doing more and that outreach was needed.

7. History Report: No formal history report was given. Col Haygood provided some general discussion about the nature of the Command changing and the need to consider how to evolve the FTVA going forward.

8. WEBSITE AND MEMBERSHIP Update: Bob Baert provided a website and membership update. Ron reiterated the advertising value in wearing the FTVA hat in public. There was much discussion about the need to make the application and dues payment process easier by exploring on-line application and “bill pay” options.

9. HALL OF HONOR Update: A.J. Harrison thank everyone involved in this year’s HOH nomination and selection process. This year saw the induction of members 185-188. He mentioned how tough the selection process has become because of the quality write-up and noted that this was a good thing.

10. SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Update: Ken Williams provided an update on this year’s Spring Social, noting that attendance was only 52; down from 75 last year. Given the dwindling numbers, he suggested that consideration should be given to discontinuing the event. He reported 185 had bought tickets for the evening banquet and noted that several tickets had been returned for refund due to concerns about the originally scheduled guest speaker. He said for next year a “no refund” policy should be put in place. Ron Haygood briefly talked about the unique circumstances surrounding the guest speaker’s selection and subsequent withdrawal, noting this was a one-time event and that the 25 AF’s relationship with FTVA is strong and evolving with the addition of new Wings and missions.

11. SPORTS Update: Barnie Gavin provided a recap of the Golf Tournament, which was a great success despite the rainy weather. Ron Haygood highlighted the outstanding contributions of Jennifer and Lee Anthony for the exceptional sponsor signs and engraved golf balls given as door prizes. There was general discussion

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about the length of the tournament and suggestions were made to look at beginning the tournament earlier next year.

12. PICNIC Update: Ron Haygood provided an update for Jacque Lerma. The event went very well with the weather cooperating a good turn-out from 25 AF. Of the five participating food booths, all broke even or made money. All of the tips proceed from the adult beverage tent were donated to hurricane relief. A special thank you was given to the Air Force Band of the West for their participation as well as to the Ford Motor Company for their donated awnings. For future planning, it was noted that there was water and beer but no sodas this year.

13. NEWSLETTER Update: Dennis Rassmussen provided an update and thanked everyone who assisted with the Newsletter, and encouraged on-line viewership to help keep the printing and mailing costs down.

14. CHAPTER REPORTS: ALAMO CHAPTER: Barnie Gavin provided a brief update and highlighted their outreach efforts with the 543d Intelligence Group and local meeting. ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER: George “Ike” Eichelberger gave and updated highlighting the Chapter’s veteran recognition events. HERITAGE CHAPTER: An update was provided. Mid-Atlantic Regional Chapter: Jerry Gething provided and update and highlighted the new name, changed from the former National Chapter Region Chapter to open the aperture to bases/areas in proximity to the NCR, but not well represented in FTVA. Hoping to improve membership. He also spoke about their efforts to place a plaque at the AF Museum honoring the 17 crewmembers killed in the shootdown of C-130 60528 by Soviet Migs along the Turkish-Armenian border. SUNSHINE CHAPTER: Ron Haygood noted that they were still looking for someone to step-up to lead the stand-up of the Chapter. It remains a work in progress. NEW UTAH CHAPTER: Scott Lawson provided and introduction and highlighted his efforts to start a new Chapter in the Salt Lake City area. All welcomed the efforts.

15. ELECTIONS: Ted Colquhoun was elected President and Evan Smith was elected Vice President, both for two-year terms. Bob Cope announced his retirement and that Lee Anthony had volunteered to fill the role of Treasurer.

16. OPEN FORUM: A. PETE SIEGEL: Highlighted the upcoming 6988 Yokota 60th reunion. B. MIKE MEERMANS: Highlighted the upcoming “Berlin for Lunch Bunch” reunion and efforts to re-place a plaque at a display honoring those lost on RIVET AMBER correcting a name spelling error. He also noted for future FTVA memorial event planning purposes, that while fly-overs by the RC- 135 are not authorized, “training missions” are (wink wink nod nod…).

16. There being no further business, a motion was made, seconded, and approved to adjourn at 11:21.

Respectfully Submitted,

EVAN V. SMITH For the FTVA Secretary

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FREEDOM THROUGH VIGILANCE ASSOCIATION Consolidated Statement of Revenues and Expenditures (For the Year Ending December 31, 2016)

1/1/2017 – 12/31/2017

Income

Donations 11,948.60 Interest, Inc. 855.59 Membership Dues 13,380.00 Social Receipts 225.00 TOTAL INCOME 26,409.19

Expenses

25 AF 6,848.64 Admin Support 54.95 Internet 129.75 Membership 12,213.96 Newsletter 14,831.78 Social Events 1,708.89 TOTAL EXPENSES 35,787.97 Excess of expenditures over income (9,378.78) USAFSS/ESC MEMORIAL FUND

1/1/2017 – 12/31/2017

Income

Donations 10,800.00 Interest, Inc. 230.88 TOTAL INCOME 11,030.88 Expenses

25 AF Heritage Support 1,647.00 TOTAL EXPENSES 1,647.00 Excess of income over expenses 9,383.88

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WE ARE I S R Past Present Future

THE FREEDOM THROUGH VIGILANCE ASSOCIATION

THE FTV A IS A PRIVATE, NON-PROFIT CORPORATION ESTABLISHED IN 1981. WE ARE DEDICATED TO THE SUPPORT AND PERPETUATION OF SOCIAL, EDUCATIONAL AND HUMANITARIAN SERVICES FOR THE USAF AND 25 AIR FORCE.

ALL FORMER AND CURRENT MILITARY OR CIVILIAN MEMBERS OF THE 25 AF AND ITS PREDECESSOR COMMANDS OR AGENCIES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR MEMBERSHIP. SURVIVING SPOUSES OF DECEASED PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR ASSOCIATE MEMBER STATUS.

WE ARE YOU !!

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