“Best in Air Force Space Command – 2002” Inside This Issue

“Best in Air Force Space Command – 2002”

Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado Vol. 47 No. 38

Photo by Staff Sgt. Shane Sharp

Courtesy photo

Inside This Issue: Blotter ... 11 At Your Service ... 14 Straight Talk Line 556-9154 SPACE OBSERVER 2 Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 From the top

Additionally, we’ll still have referrals as applicable to the Air Force Academy Welcome home! Hospital and local clinics. With the medical team’s three By Brig. Gen. Duane Deal Bringing them home will be of squadrons, their return boosts our great 21st Space Wing Commander immense benefit to Air Force Space wing up to 6 groups with 48 units, fur- Command, USNORTHCOM, Peterson, ther underscoring not only our diversity Reactivating after a five-year Schriever, Cheyenne Mountain, our but also our capability. absence, next Wednesday we “welcome tenants, and our many geographically When you see our medical folks home” 350 men and women back to our separated units. They’ll once again be a walking around with their “21st wing – the pros of the 21st Medical group dedicated to our worldwide mis- Medical Group” hats, give ‘em a smile Group. While this fantastic team has sions and people, offering everything and say, “Welcome home!” been fully engaged members of Team from first class medical and dental care, Editor’s Note: The official 21st Pete and located here as tenants, to focused readiness exercise participa- Medical Group reactivation ceremony they’ve not been assigned as part of our tion, to pharmaceutical service, to GSU will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday in Hangar wing or command since 1998. medical and dental support. 119. Action Lines Submitting Action Lines karate instructor will begin teaching classes in ously search for better ways to serve our customers October. The Youth Center publishes planned activities and are currently evaluating possible tracking mecha- The Action Line is your direct link to the 21st Space each month in the Services Good Stuff newsletter, the nisms that can predict waiting times and inform cus- Wing Commander. We suggest you first try to resolve Space Observer, and on flyers and posters placed in tomers where they are in the queue. We hope to have problems at the lowest level possible – with the person or various locations on base. For information on specific something online in the near future. Our team is activity, and then follow the chain of command. programs, call Jane-Marie Kopycinski, Youth Center always prepared to go above and beyond to assist any- Though it’s not required, we ask that you leave Director, at 556-7220. one. For example, we’ve opened up at 6 a.m. and your name and phone number so we can get back to Wait Worries stayed until 6 p.m. to process ID cards for individuals you for clarifications, or if your response isn’t printed. who could not get here during normal duty hours. If you can’t get satisfactory results, call 556-7777. Or Question: Can something be done about the Finally, if you are ever upset or feel you didn’t receive you can fax your question to 556-7848. service at the Military Personnel Flight? I’m Air world-class service, see Maj. Richard Wagner or Force Active Duty assigned to Andrews Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Beverly Price at 556-7135. Youth Center Programs? Base; but stationed at Fort Carson. When I visited Question: When is the Youth Center going to your MPF to get a new ID Card, I wondered where Cooling question start the programs they promised? When we I was in line, because I saw people come in after me, Question: Why isn't there central air in base signed up our children last December to use the yet they received assistance before me. When a cus- housing? At Malmstrom AFB they put in central Youth Center, we were told there would be dance tomer logs in, why can’t they be told where they air, and it is cooler there. classes, gymnastics, Taekwondo, and other pro- stand, e.g. you’re No. 3 of 25, or you have an approx- Answer: As you know, we've had an abnormally grams. They have this large youth center and there imate 15-minute wait. The way it is now once a per- hot summer - air conditioning would have been a wel- is nothing for the children to do other than the after son logs in you have no idea of how long you will come addition to many homes in the Pikes Peak school program and maybe soccer. There is nothing wait. Either the system is broken everyday, or I Region. Military Family Housing on Peterson AFB else for them to do. They had since last September lucked out and went on one of their worst days. does meet the criteria for air conditioning; however the to plan these programs. Thank you. Answer: Thank you for your feedback. The 21st existing exterior electrical distribution system in the Answer: Thank you for giving us the opportuni- Mission Support Squadron prides itself on delivering military family housing area will not support the addi- ty to inform you about the programs and activities world-class customer service, and we apologize for the tional electrical load air conditioning would place on available to you and your children at the Youth Center. frustration you experienced during your visit. The it. We are upgrading the distribution system in several Since moving into the newly renovated facility, we Department of Defense has provided us four machines phases. The first phase is currently under construction. have expanded our programming to include after- to process 100-200 identification cards each day. Our Subsequent phases are planned for future years. Actual school, evening and weekend activities for the youth. average waiting time is 10.3 minutes, but this is an construction will depend on the availability of funding. These include: “Tournament Tuesdays,” “Fun Fridays,” average which can change depending on the time of Eighty-seven housing units are currently under reno- and youth cooking classes to name a few. We also offer day or even the day of the week. When we get a surge vation. Whole-house fans and larger attic vents are a large variety of recreational youth sports leagues – of customers, we dedicate one or two machines to non- being installed in these units. In the summertime, the including baseball, basketball, flag football, and soc- Common Access Card requests. Our MPF Customer fan will draw air through the entire house and exhaust cer for children as young as three years – in addition to Service routinely assists more than 300 customers a it through the attic. This will make it easier to bring summer sports camps. The Youth Center is also plan- day; however, some days it doubles – last year, we cooler outside air into the house and make it more ning youth hockey leagues at the Fitness Center’s new processed more than 24,000 ID card applications. The comfortable. This will satisfy the need for air condi- roller hockey rink, which has its grand opening on new CAC takes an average of 20 minutes to produce tioning for more than 95 percent of our normal sum- Tuesday. The Youth Center is still searching for from start to finish, which doesn’t include unforeseen mer conditions. For more information, call Bill instructors to teach ballet and music classes, and a new system downtime or system problems. We continu- Schlepuetz at 556-7515. A Moment in Time Published by Gowdy Printcraft, 22 N. Sierra Madre, Colorado Springs, 80903, a private firm in no way con- 21st Space Wing Commander Sept. 25, 1947 – Gen. Carl nected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with the 21st Space Wing. This commercial enterprise Spaatz is appointed the first U.S. Air Brig. Gen. Duane Deal Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military services. Force Chief of Staff. Contents of the Space Observer are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Chief of Public Affairs Sept. 28, 1912 – Cpl. Frank S. the Department of Defense or the Department of the Air Force. Capt. Don Kerr Scott becomes the first enlisted fatali- The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorse- ty in Signal Corps Aviation. ment by DOD, the Department of the Air Force, or Gowdy Printcraft, of the products or services advertised. Everything Editorial Staff Sept. 29, 1938 – Brig. Gen. advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, reli- Chief Internal Information Henry “Hap” Arnold is named chief gion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of of the Army Air Corps, succeeding 2nd Lt. Jennifer Whitaker the purchaser, user or patron. Maj. Gen. Oscar Westover. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the 21st Space Wing Public Affairs Office, 775 Loring NCOIC Internal Information Sept. 30, 1949 – The Berlin air- Ave., Suite 218, Peterson AFB, Colo., 80914-1294. All photographs are Air Force photographs unless otherwise indi- Tech. Sgt. Michael Phillips lift, gradually reduced since May 12, cated. Editor The Space Observer is published every Thursday. For advertising inquiries, call Gowdy Printcraft, (719) 634- officially ends. Allied aircraft carried 1593. Employees of Peterson Air Force Base who want to place a free classified advertisement should call 556-5241. Staff Sgt. Shane Sharp 2,343,301.5 tons of supplies on Articles for the Space Observer should be submitted to the 21st SW/PAI, Attn: Space Observer, 775 Loring Staff Writer 277,264 flights. Oct. 1, 1989 – Gen. Hansford T. Ave., Ste. 218, Peterson AFB, Colo., 80914-1294 or e-mail [email protected]. Deadline for submission Staff Sgt. Melanie Epperson is 4:30 p.m. the Tuesday one week before publication. All articles, copy and announcements submitted will be edited Johnson becomes the first Air Force to conform to AFI Series 35 and the Associated Press Stylebook and Libel Manual. For details, call the editor at (719) Layout and Design Academy graduate to become a four- 556-7846 or DSN 834-7846. Kara Magana star general. SPACE OBSERVER Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 3 www.peterson.af.mil News USNORTHCOM Special Assistant for Reserve Matters receives Defense Superior Service Medal By Petty Officer 1st Class University of Missouri to see his older Beverly Allen sister, Sally Thompson Borgerson,” U.S. Northern Command Public Affairs Eberhart said. “She eagerly told him the advantages of attending MU. While Rear Adm. J. Stanton Thompson there, he also went to the campus recently received the Defense Superior library and re-read the Naval Academy Service Medal for his service at U.S. booklet. After looking over the booklet Pacific Command during a ceremony and realizing a military school had here recently. many restrictions, he decided to tell his Thompson was recognized for his dad that he changed his mind and want- dynamic leadership and continuous ed to attend the University of aggressive pursuit of efficient, effec- Missouri.” tive, and doctrinally correct training in General Eberhart said Thompson the Pacific Command’s 21 joint and was a member of the Navy Reserve combined exercises, which produced Officer Training Corps during his col- lethal, combat ready forces. lege years at the University of Missouri From 1999-2002, Thompson so he remained “true to his commit- served as the Mobilization Assistant to ment to serve in the U.S. Navy.” the Director of Operations at United The Defense Superior Service States Pacific Command, Camp Smith, Medal was established by Executive Hawaii, and was responsible for coordi- Order 11904, Feb. 6, 1976. It is award- nating joint and combined exercises ed by the Secretary of Defense to mem- Photo by Tech. Sgt. Lawrence Holmes within the Pacific theater of operations. bers of the Armed Forces of the United General Ed Eberhart, Commander in Chief, North American Aerospace Defense Command, and Commander, United States Northern Command, pins General Ed Eberhart, the States who, after Feb. 6, 1976, rendered the Defense Superior Service Medal on Rear Adm. J. Stanton Thompson here. Commander in Chief, North American superior meritorious service in a posi- Thompson earned the award while working for the U.S. Pacific Fleet from Aerospace Defense Command and tion of significant responsibility. 1999-2002 for his dynamic leadership and continuous aggressive pursuit of Commander, United States Northern Rear Adm. Thompson is currently efficient, effective, and doctrinally correct training in the Pacific Command’s Command, presided at the ceremony the Special Assistant for Reserve 21 joint and combined exercises. and presented the award. Matters to the Commander, United “Stanton was on his way to the States Northern Command, Peterson Colo., and is responsible for the inte- defense and military support to civilian Naval Academy when he stopped by the Air Force Base, Colorado Springs, gration of reserves in homeland authorities. Combined Federal Campaign underway, runs through Nov. 4 By 2nd Lt. Robert Crawford 21st Space Wing Commander; Maj. Brent Talbot, 21st Space Wing Public Affairs USAFA Instructor; and Col. Suzanne Vautrinot, 50th Space Wing Commander. The annual Pikes Peak Region Combined The speakers highlighted different facets of the Federal Campaign kicked off at10 a.m. Tuesday at the Campaign. U.S Air Force Academy’s Arnold Hall, and will run “Though we may not be aware, I guarantee we all until Nov. 4. know someone who has benefited from the institutions The event officially welcomed donors to the CFC supports; the campaign allows us to continue that 2003 region-wide Air Force and Postal Service CFC support to benefit many more,” said Deal. kickoff rally and agency fair. The Pikes Peak Region federal employees con- Here keynote speakers acknowledged the signif- Superinten-dent U. S. Air Force Academy and host for tributed more than $1.6 million last year. icance of the campaign and the importance of the roles this year’s campaign. They plan to increase that number by 5 percent of project officers and key workers. “I don’t think I have seen a program grow more this year. Master of ceremonies was Jon Karroll, KRDO and mean more in my 30 years,” said Rosa. If you have questions about the CFC, or to Television News Anchor. Other speakers included Maj. John Modinger, find out how you can be a hero, contact your key Speaking first was Lt. Gen. John Rosa, Project Officer for USAFA; Brig. Gen. Duane Deal, worker.

PIKES PEAK TOP 3 COUNCIL The new The Pikes Peak Top 3 meets at 3 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month in the Air Force Uniform Enlisted Club Buffalo Grill. Membership is open to all Team Peterson master ser- geant selects through chief master ser- geants. Pikes Peak Top 3 supports enlisted causes and professional development ... Know the facts through a variety of activities.

Have a story idea? visit Let us know by http://www.af.mil/uniform/# calling us at 556-4351 or Your link to frequently by e-mail at asked questions, letters, [email protected] and photos. SPACE OBSERVER 4 Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 Hispanic Heritage Month Dining facility namesake was Hispanic-American hero

By Jeffrey A. Nash and married his wife, an Italian native. ing off a chain reaction of explosions 21st Space Wing Operations Center In 1963, Aragon’s younger brother and fires among the other aircraft. As contracted a debilitating disease, and he fires spread throughout the parking Those who frequent the Peterson received a hardship transfer to Colorado ramp, aircrews and maintenance per- Air Force Base Aragon Dining Facility Springs to assist his family. He was sonnel were caught in and around the may notice a framed photograph and a assigned to the 4614th Consolidated carnage of burning aircraft and second- plaque on the wall as they enter the Aircraft Maintenance Squadron here at ary explosions. serving lines. Those who stop to look Peterson Air Force Base, which main- Aragon was off-duty when the further will learn the photo is of Staff tained T-33A single-engine training jets. explosions occurred, but he immediate- Sgt. Jose R. Aragon, a Colorado Senior officers used these planes to fly ly rushed to the flight line to assist the Springs-area resident who received the to other bases on official visits or injured and rescue those trapped. Bronze Star for heroism during the inspections, so the planes were required Witnesses said he made several dashes Vietnam War. to be ready on a moment’s notice. into the fiery wreckage to pull people What the photo and plaque don’t Supervisors remembered Aragon out of harm’s way. One of the final tell is the story of an honorable as a “go-to guy” in the 4614th, with a explosions claimed the 25-year-old’s Hispanic-American, Air Force member, love of family and a dedication to the life. All told, 27 American servicemem- and family man who made the supreme Air Force. As a noncommissioned offi- bers lost their lives, more than 60 were sacrifice for his country. cer, Aragon instilled a strong work ethic injured, and more than 40 U.S. and Jose Ruben Aragon – Ruben to his in both his peers and those he super- South Vietnamese aircraft were family and friends – was born in vised. destroyed. Milliken, Colo., near Greeley, the fourth During Aragon’s time at Peterson Aragon was one of six individuals of eight children. The family later AFB, U.S. involvement in Southeast awarded the Bronze Star posthumously moved to Fountain, where his father Asia escalated, and members of the for heroics that day, for contributing to became the town marshal and worked at 4614th were sent to South Vietnam for the saving of many lives. Ruben was Fort Carson as a railroad foreman. 90-day rotations. Aragon volunteered to buried in Fountain’s Fairview Cemetery. Ruben was 12 when his father died of take the place of a fellow airman, whose The Peterson dining facility was named complications during surgery. wife was expecting a baby and had for Staff Sgt. Aragon in 1967. Today, his Young Ruben worked hard to help asked for a tour delay. Not wanting to Aragon name graces not only the dining facility, support his family, taking a summer job worry his wife and mother, he never told but also an elementary school in on a farm and making plans to join the them of his assignment to Vietnam, bombs, provided ground attack support Fountain, a fitting tribute to a local Air Force. He persuaded his mother to instead telling them he was going to the to South Vietnamese army forces fight- Hispanic American who made the sign his enlistment papers and joined Philippines. ing the insurgent Viet Cong. On the supreme sacrifice for his country and the Air Force at 17. April 1965 found Aragon at Bien morning of May 16th, four B-57s were for his Air Force. Aragon adapted quickly to mili- Hoa Air Base in South Vietnam, where lined up with engines running in prepa- (John Diedrich of the Colorado tary life. He became an aircraft his crew maintained a squadron of ration for another bombing mission. Springs Gazette, in a May 1999 article mechanic, and was assigned to Aviano USAF B-57B medium bombers. The B- Without warning, a 500-pound bomb on Staff Sgt. Aragon, contributed signif- Air Base, Italy, in 1958, where he met 57s, heavily armed with guns and exploded on one of the aircraft, touch- icantly to this article.) SPACE OBSERVER Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 5 www.peterson.af.mil News Commissaries nix home-printed coupons Peak Performer By Rick Brink ness and many commercial grocers are Defense Commissary Agency also declining to accept home-printed Name: Tennyson Avecilla coupons. Most coupons are legitimate, Rank: Airman First Class FORT LEE, Va. – Commissaries but home computers and Internet access Organization: 21st Services are no longer accepting “home-printed” have made it easy to alter legitimate Squadron coupons as the grocery industry comes coupons for fraudulent use, Vitikacs Duty Title: Storeroom Clerk to terms with the fraudulent use of said. Time in Service: 17 months Internet coupons. Some analysts estimate the loss by Hometown: Manila, Philippines “We still gladly accept manufac- coupon fraud to the grocery industry to Off-duty interests, hobbies: turers coupons – the kind you clip out of be millions of dollars. Fraud ultimately Swimming, bowling, watching newspapers or magazines or that you costs consumers as manufacturers raise movies, playing basketball, table receive in the mail. What we’re not their prices to recoup losses. accepting are coupons that have been To protect against loss, DeCA tennis, Playstation 2, and working downloaded from the Internet and print- officials decided to immediately sus- out ed with a home computer because it’s pend acceptance of home-printed, pho- Why did you join the Air Force? too difficult for our cashiers to tell if tocopied or facsimile-generated I joined the Air Force to have an they are valid,” said Bob Vitikacs, the coupons – color and black-and-white. honorable job and to work in an Defense Commissary Agency’s director “This is an interim measure we’ve environment that instills discipline. of operations and product support. adopted immediately to protect our cus- In addition, I wanted to see the Avecilla The use of fraudulent Internet tomers and industry partners,” Vitikacs world and finish my degree. coupons is growing in the grocery busi- said. What inspires you to do what you do? It inspires me knowing that I’m helping to make a difference by improving the quality and way of life of Air Force people and doing Enlisted Against something I can be proud of. Favorite part of your job? Drunk Driving My favorite part of my job is working independently; not only working Protecting you and your family members in a certain field, but a variety; and also having a job that is related to by providing a safe alternative my career field. What goals have you set? to drinking and driving. To improve my knowledge and understanding of my job, to get a Please call us! Fri. - Sat. 10 p.m. - 3 a.m. degree in business management, and also to be able to look back at my life and proudly say that I have served in the United States Air Phone: 719-556-6384 or 55 NO DUI Force. SPACE OBSERVER 6 Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 News Firefighter’s keen idea cited as ‘best practice’ By Tech. Sgt. Michael Phillips gency response vehicles, firefighters of printing and maintenance of one portability outside of the vehicle when 21st Space Wing Public Affairs will have quick access to information copy, including the cost of document it’s needed. required for emergency responses. protectors, three-ring binders, updates, “Each of the tablet PCs is hand- One member of Peterson’s Fire “Our Aircraft Emergency Rescue and spoilage is approximately $3,000 held, has a big enough screen for good Department has come up with a better Information technical order contains per vehicle every two years.” viewing, and is compatible with any way of doing things. In fact, it’s being 2,764 color pages. Those pages must be Multiplying that cost by five fire vehi- program using a Windows operating recognized as a “best” way of doing color-coded in order for firefighters to cles brings the cost to about $15,000, he system,” Itule said. That makes the things. be able to distinguish various aircraft added. tablet PCs compatible with laptop com- Staff Sgt. Fred Itule, Air Force Fire components and hazards,” Itule said. At a cost of approximately $1,400 puters, Smart Boards, projectors, and Protection Crew Chief, is making the To print one color copy of almost for each tablet PC, the department could other electronic media for classroom Fire Department’s technical orders any document costs approximately a expect to save $1,600 per vehicle every training. “high-tech” by downloading them into dollar per page. two years, for that T.O. alone. “Updates are done using floppy an electronic format. “Each T.O. must be replaced every “That T.O. is only one of a multi- disks or reusable CDs instead of replac- By purchasing tablet personal two years, unless there is an update or a tude of emergency reference publica- ing numerous pages, on numerous computers for the department’s emer- mid-year change,” Itule said. “The cost tions required for firefighters, he said. trucks. Itule said firefighters currently “Anyone who needs portability – have to print out copies of technical not just firefighters – can use a system orders, facility and aircraft pre-fire like this,” Itule said. plans, emergency response checklists “Staff Sgt. Itule developed the and guidebooks, and assorted Air Force entire program, downloaded it onto a publications, looking through thousands tablet PC, and tested it during actual of pages in books that weigh 12 pounds emergencies,” said Chief Master Sgt. or more each, he said. Brian Bridgeford, Chief of Fire “A tablet PC weighs about four Protection Inspections at Air Force pounds, one Aircraft Emergency Rescue Space Command. “Other Peterson fire- Information technical order weighs 13.5 fighters tested it and liked it better than pounds. using the paper T.O. The cost savings “Another benefit is that we can alone resulted in the tablet PCs imme- zoom in and out on maps, and every diately paying for themselves.” piece of information takes only about Fire chiefs across AFSPC learned five seconds to access,” he said. about the program at the Department of “Firefighters won’t have a heavy Defense Fire and Emergency Services loose item in a fire truck cab during an conference in August. As a result, Itule emergency response,” Itule said. “The is scheduled to provide a training Staff Sgt. Fred Itule (right), Air Force Fire Protection Crew Chief, shows tablet PC is protected and secured in a demonstration at the upcoming AFSPC Airman 1st Class Cody Marion how to access technical orders using the case bolted to the inside of fire vehicles, Emergency Services Symposium in Peterson Fire Department's new tablet PCs. allowing instant emergency access, and November. SPACE OBSERVER Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 7 www.peterson.af.mil News Team Pete promises those who didn’t return, ‘You are not forgotten’ By Tech. Sgt. Michael Phillips “I know that every military person has been 21st Space Wing Public Affairs schooled to survive,” he said. “It’s a very important lesson, although we never think we will need to use More than 200 members of Team Peterson gath- it.” ered to honor fallen comrades and those still missing Turley related throughout his remarks how being during a POW/MIA Remembrance Ceremony Sept. “schooled to survive” had helped prisoners persist, 19 at the base flagpole in front of the 21st Space Wing persevere, and keep faith in each war in American his- Headquarters. tory. Master Sgt. Kristin Clark, “We were going to show the from the 21st Space Wing “Freedom. It isn’t free. enemy that we could take any- Manpower office, was mistress of thing they could dish out,” he said. ceremonies. Gil Turley, an Army But yet, so often we’ll “We knew our family, friends, and Air Corps Bombardier/Navigator take it for granted.” our nation were praying for our in World War II, and Prisoner of – Gil Turley safe return. The companionship of War in Barth, Germany, for three World War II Prisoner of War our fellow POWs gave us hope for years, was the guest speaker for a return to home safely.” the ceremony. “Freedom. It isn’t free. But Turley currently serves as the yet, so often we’ll take it for national director of the American Ex-Prisoner of War granted,” he said. “Oh yes, it’s true.” Organization. Col. Diann Latham, 21st Space Wing Vice He recalled his days at Peterson Field in the Commander, presented Mr. Turley with a 21st Space early days of World War II. “On the flight line was a Wing coin as a token of appreciation for his partici- bunch of old war-weary B-24s,” he said. “That’s what pation in the ceremony. we flew in and trained as a crew.” A reading of the “Loneliest Prayer” by 1st Lt. Turley spoke of the will of warfighters through- Cameron Jackson, from the 21st Space Wing out the history of America to persevere and to survive. Manpower office, and the “Answer to the Loneliest Turley said the first question people ask when Prayer” by Tech. Sgt. Angela Evans, from Peterson’s they find out someone was a prisoner of war is, “How Forrest L. Vosler NCO Academy, provided a somber and what did you do to survive?” moment. Photo by Staff Sgt. Shane Sharp “I’m of the opinion that each POW would have a The ceremony closed with a retreat ceremony, as Gil Turley, a World War II Prisoner of War, was the different answer,” Turley said. “However, I believe it members of the High Frontier Honor Guard lowered guest speaker for Peterson’s POW/MIA ceremony is in our genes, and in our heritage, to survive.” and folded the flag. Sept. 19. SPACE OBSERVER 8 Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 News Briefs LANE CLOSURE ON SUFFOLK ST ticipate in and set up for the parade. This is a great time wishing to test will be put on a space available list in Due to construction in the parking area west of the to show the community our pride in our base, our Air case of cancellations. Officers’ Club, Suffolk Street between Stewart Avenue Force, and our country. Volunteers can call Master Sgt. AFCEA LUNCHEON and Glasgow Street will be reduced to one lane of traf- Donald Finley at 556-4956, or e-mail The Armed Forces Communications and fic. Traffic will be one-way on Suffolk Street in the [email protected]. Electronics Association invites people interested in southbound direction until south of Glasgow Street. CMOC ORIENTATION COURSE membership to their next luncheon meeting at 11:30 Detour and directional signs will be posted to direct What goes on inside “The Mountain?” Find out at a.m. Oct. 23, at the Peterson Air Force Base Officers’ traffic. Motorists are urged to use caution when travel- the Cheyenne Mountain Operations Center Orientation Club. All ranks and services are invited. The guest ing in the area. For more information, call Ernie Branch Course. The course, sponsored by Detachment 1, 533d speaker is Navy Capt. Michael A. Noll, speaking on at 556-1422. Training Squadron at Schriever Air Force Base, is for U.S. Northern Command perspectives. For information VOTING ASSISTANCE any personnel performing duties related to CMOC on membership, call Mike Varner at 572-8565. For Anyone interested in registering to vote or request- Operations. Next courses are Oct. 6-10 and Nov. 3-7. reservations, call Judy Arnold at 622-2528. ing an absentee ballot should contact their unit voting For general information, call Cathi Rios at DSN 560- ENERGY BILL ASSISTANCE assistance counselor to fill out the Federal Post Card 9408. To enroll, call Don Summerfield at DSN 276- The Colorado Energy Assistance Foundation, The Application. The application form is also available 1542, ext. 3310. Governor’s Office of Energy Management and online at www.fvap.gov/othertools/onlinefpca. html for NURSES CONTINUING EDUCATION Conservation, and The Home Front Cares, are sponsor- all states and territories except Louisiana, Ohio, The Non-Practicing and Part-Time Nurses’ ing a one-time utility bill gift grant for military person- American Samoa, and Guam. For more information, Association/Nurse Link will present a program titled nel grades E1-E5 and their families who are currently call the installation voting officer, Maj. James Szczur at “Healing Rituals” from 7-9:15 p.m. Wednesday at deployed or who have been recently deployed. 556-4074, or Capt. Kevin Carlson at 556-3780. Penrose-St. Francis Learning Center. The speaker will Deployment orders and an original copy of the energy CLOTHING DRIVE be Dr. Carole Schoffstall. Two continuing-education bill must be provided, preferably five working days Tech. Sgt. Timothy Mikulski is collecting cloth- contact hours will be given. For information, call Betty before the bill’s due date. For more information, call The ing, coats, shoes, bedding, etc., to benefit the Airman’s Lou Avinger at 599-7588, or Jean Sanger at 592-9311. Home Front Cares hotline at 447-3838. For weekend Attic and local Colorado Springs shelters. Items will be DANTES ENGLISH COMPOSITION WITH assistance, call 686-9831. accepted through December. To donate, call 556-2603. ESSAY IN-STATE TUITION FEES VETERANS DAY PARADE The final administration of the English Active duty members of U.S. and Canadian forces and their family members who are not official residents VOLUNTEERS Composition with Essay at Defense Activity for Non- Traditional Education Support test centers is scheduled of Colorado, but who are permanently assigned here, America’s servicemen and women will take center for noon Oct. 8 at the Peterson Testing Office. Stop by qualify for resident tuition rates at state-supported insti- stage Nov. 8, at the annual Veterans Day Parade. The the Education Services Center in Building 1141, Room tutions. The benefit is not automatic. Members must parade begins at 9:30 a.m. at St. Vrain and runs along 106, or call 556-4064 to register. There are only 15 slots apply for the benefit each term. Applications can be Tejon Street to Vermijo. Volunteers are needed to par- for this exam. Once the slots are filled, individuals obtained at the Education Center.

Chapel Schedule Protestant Catholic Worship Services: Weekday Mass, 11:35 a.m. (except Monday) **For more information - Liturgical Service, 8:15 a.m. Saturdays, 5 p.m. Call the chapel at 556-4442 for Traditional General Sundays, 9:30 a.m. available chapel programs. Protestant Service, 11 a.m. Reconciliation Gospel Service, 12:30 p.m. Saturdays, 4 p.m. SPACE OBSERVER Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 9 www.peterson.af.mil News AF offers multilingual thanks By Staff Sgt. Secretary of the Air Force Dr. ing to Tonini. The linguistic challenges of C. Todd Lopez James G. Roche. “The Air Force Parent-Pin translating so many letters did Air Force Print News Tonini said the idea for E program is designed to not change the meaning of the Pluribus Unum came shortly acknowledge the parents and message, however. WASHINGTON – Air- after the program kicked off in parental figures whose support “There are some slight men whose parents speak lan- early May. continues to be critical to changes, where languages treat guages other than English can “It started very early on in America’s airmen,” Tonini said. things differently,” Tonini said. now order Air Force Parent the program with an e-mail “When your parents wear these “You have to do that in many of Pins with accompanying cards from a lieutenant colonel in pins, their friends will ask the languages, but it is the translated into one of 100 lan- Arizona,” Tonini said. “He about it. Your parents will tell same letter.” guages. thought the program was mag- them about you and your serv- “As part of E Pluribus The Air Force parent pin rec- ognizes the vital partnership The new Your Guardians nificent but said his father ice, and how proud they are of Unum, we’ve designed an between America’s Air Force of Freedom initiative is an spoke only Spanish, and it you. This is a real ‘support interactive section of our Web and the parents of our air- extension of the Parent-Pin would be so much more mean- mutliplier,’ and that support is site where you can see the men. program called “E Pluribus ingful to his father to receive just as important if your parents phrase ‘Thank Your Parents’ Unum.” The Latin term comes the card in Spanish. Over the or parental figures don’t speak morph from English into more and Reserve airmen. from the great seal of the next few weeks, we got a hun- English. than 100 languages,” said Capt. The lapel pins are con- United States and means, “out dred of those kinds of letters.” “There is a lot to be David L. Englin, the office’s temporary adaptations of the of many, one,” said the pro- Even before launching E gained for the Air Force in deputy director. “The site also World War II “E” flags that gram’s director, Brig. Gen. Pluribus Unum, members of terms of communicating with provides a summary of each were used to recognize compa- Edward Tonini. the Your Guardians of Freedom the huge number of people in language – how many people nies for efficient-war produc- “We try to take a lot of office received more than the United States whose pri- speak it, where it’s spoken, tion. what we do in this program 1,000 requests for cards in 40 mary language is other than some of the history of the lan- The modern-day pro- from history,” Tonini said. “E different languages, according English,” Tonini said. “If we guage, that sort of thing. We grams are designed to recog- pluribus unum comes from our to Tonini. About 70 percent of can make an impression in a hope it becomes an entertain- nize and strengthen the mili- founding fathers. It evokes both those requests were for non-English speaking family ing resource for airmen, stu- tary, community and family the strength that America Spanish. by translating the letter, then dents, teachers and anyone partnerships that are critical to derives from the diversity of its Office officials teamed we believe that is a positive interested in foreign languages the Air Force’s ability to wage citizens and the strength that with people from the Defense thing. This is a true diversity and cultures.” the global war on terrorism. our Air Force derives from the Language Institute in outreach program.” E Pluribus Unum is the The pins are about three- diversity of its airmen.” Monterey, Calif., and other Some of the languages third major effort for the office. fourths inch square and feature In the first four months of commercial agencies to trans- required as many as a dozen Besides the Parent-Pin pro- a silver letter “E” or “P” cra- the Parent-Pin program, more late the original card into 100 different versions to account gram, the ongoing Employer- dled within the Air Force sym- than 200,000 parents or different languages, Tonini for the different types of family Pin program kicked off Nov. 8. bol. parental figures received the said. situations that can be encoun- More than 87,000 pins and per- Airmen can sign up for the lapel pins and personalized The purpose for offering tered and the ways the different sonalized letters from Roche pin and letter by accessing the cards from Air Force Chief of the letter in so many languages languages handle things like and Jumper have been sent to Web site at www.yourguardian- Staff Gen. John P. Jumper and is community outreach, accord- gender, according to Tonini. civilian employers of Guard soffreedom.com. SPACE OBSERVER 10 Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 News AF Climate Survey launches Oct. 1 The 2003 By Richard Salomon Jumper, Air Force chief of staff. Air Force Manpower and Innovation Agency Public Affairs “The U.S. Air Force is the finest in the world, a great Air Force place to serve and raise our families. We share a commitment RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas – Air Force to make it better,” he said. leaders at all levels want to know, “How is my organization Survey participation has climbed from 39 percent in Climate doing?” The 2003 Air Force Climate Survey begins Oct. 1 to 1997 and 36 percent in 1999 to more than 65 percent of active- answer this question with the help of Air Force people. duty airmen and civilians in the 2002 survey. Survey will Their participation in the survey is critical, said senior The 45th Space Wing at Patrick Air Force Base, Fla., leaders. used the data from the 2002 survey as a powerful tool for “Leadership must be made aware of what’s really going change. Patrick’s leaders created a performance plan called cover 13 on out there,” said Secretary of the Air Force Dr. James G. START for “Synchronize actions,” “Trust people,” “All Roche. “By taking a few brief moments to fill out this survey, accountable,” “Recognize achievement” and “Tenacious exe- factors that you can help your leaders understand your concerns and ulti- cution.” mately better serve you and our nation’s interests.” The plan emphasized mentoring and individual develop- Previous surveys included active-duty airmen and appro- ment. It provided mission focus with clear and measurable measure priated-fund civilians. This year, the survey also will include goals, according to base officials. the Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, non-appropriated Even though the base scored high in most factors, base work fund civilians and students in a temporary-duty status. leaders wanted to make life at Patrick even better, said Judy “We want to make sure all members of the Air Force Nicholson, START director. team have an opportunity to participate,” said Lori Marcum, “We knew from the Air Force survey that we could experience: the survey’s team leader. “Leaders at all levels use the Air improve in some areas. The work the commanders did review- Job Force Climate Survey to target areas for improvement. In ing the survey feedback resulted in START,” she said. Resources order to create positive changes within an organization, (lead- The base introduced monthly civilian commanders’ calls Core values ers) must know where to begin. This survey provides every- and created a civilian-oversight recognition team. Leaders Leadership one an opportunity to speak out about strengths and areas for rewrote the rules on the quarterly awards process to focus Supervision improvement in their organization.” more on performance than additional duties. Training and development The survey runs through Nov. 23 and can be completed To encourage attendance at commander’s calls, leaders Teamwork online at http://afclimatesurvey.af.mil anytime during the sur- use tickets for rocket launches at nearby Cape Canaveral Air Participation and vey period from either a government computer (dot-mil) or Force Station as door prizes. involvement Brig. Gen. J. Gregory Pavlovich, 45th Space Wing com- personal computer (dot-com). mander, said he continually reviews the survey results to make Recognition Because Air Force leaders expect candid feedback, the sure the wing is on the right track. Unit flexibility survey team has taken extraordinary measures to ensure priva- cy by using advanced information-masking software. “START is a direct result of the Air Force survey, so we General satisfaction Anonymity continues to be a key factor of the survey, officials place a great deal of value on the survey data,” he said. Unit performance outcomes said. “Because of the survey, we’ve been able to make improve- Results will be released early in 2004, said Gen. John P. ments at all levels, from top to bottom.” Job enhancement SPACE OBSERVER Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 11 www.peterson.af.mil News ANY equipment item or hazardous material, arrived and spoke with the revelers, “suggesting” check regulations and local policies for proper they take the festivities inside. disposal methods. Usually, the proper method WAS THAT A SIGN? Ð Sept. 15 will NOT be “toss it in the trash.” The property Security Forces responded to Stewart found its way into Security Forces evidence lock- Avenue for a minor vehicle accident. Due to er until proper disposal methods can be identi- unknown reasons, one driver decided he didn’t fied. have to stop at a stop sign. He cruised on INSPECTION IS CUSTOMARY Ð Sept. 12 through the intersection and, what do you know, The following real-life events with real individu- Security Forces responded to the flight line he struck an innocent SUV Ð ripped his own als from around Peterson are to inform you of crimes, to conduct a customs inspection on a C-130 arriv- bumper right off. Luckily, no one was injured in accidents, and events occurring on base. These entries ing from Canada. Patrolmen processed seven the accident. The errant automobilist received a are from hundreds recorded in the Peterson Police crewmembers. citation for failure to stop and disobeying a stop Blotter: TWO WRONGS MAKE A MISDEMEANOR Ð sign Ð they aren’t there for decoration, folks. **Editor’s note: Although the Space Observer Sept. 12 PARKED TRUCK FIGHTS BACK Ð Sept. 16 staff may make light of some blotter entries, the intent When Security Forces initiated a traffic stop Security Forces at the West Gate witnessed is to call attention to our security and law enforcement at 3:30 a.m., one airman got more than he bar- a minor vehicle accident when a civilian employ- concerns. However, rest assured, our professional gained for. The civilian driving the car was ee hit a delivery truck. After having her ID Security Forces treat each incident seriously. stopped in the dorm parking lot Ð almost made it. checked, the civilian proceeded to maneuver THE CONSPICUOUS CORD CAPER Ð Sept. 11 While patrolmen were interviewing the driver, between the concrete barriers and a parked deliv- Security Forces responded to base housing who had not been drinking, they noticed a strong ery truck that was waiting to be searched. You where a military member reported someone had smell of alcohol coming from the passenger. guessed it, she inaccurately assessed the dis- stolen an extension cord. Apparently the heavy- Well, at least the airheaded airman did one thing tance and ended up with one less side mirror. gauge cord, which was connected and lying in his right – he didn’t drive. The problem is, of course, The hulking truck, as you may also have driveway, was too powerful a temptation for some he was underage. Patrolmen cuffed him and took guessed, wasn’t phased in the slightest. power-hungry pirate. The cord crook unhooked him to the station Ð he could probably see his BACK AND BONK Ð Sept. 16 the spoils and split. dorm room from the back of the police car as they Security Forces responded to the Shoppette FLEETWOOD SMACK Ð Sept. 12 drove away. where a retired military member struck an air- Security Forces responded to the West Gate CSPD … WE’LL PICK YOU UP Ð Sept. 13 man’s parked car. The retiree was backing from where a retired military member stated a woman Security Forces at the West Gate stopped a his parking space when he hit the car. It’s kind of struck his white 1997 Fleetwood motor home. He retired military member in a rental car, because scary since the airman was putting air in the tires stated that around 1:30 p.m. while he was his license had expired five days earlier. The at the time of the collision. The bonking backer approaching the gate, a silver vehicle came Colorado Springs Police Department responded, was issued a citation for failure to yield and inat- around him and struck the entry step on the pas- issued a summons, and escorted the man back to tentive backing. senger side of the coach. Maybe she didn’t see the rental office. All of this begs the question MEDICAL RESPONSE Ð Sept. 17 the enormous recreational vehicle. The retiree “How was he able to rent a car with an expired Security Forces, the Fire Department, and got out to look at the damage, and the woman license?” Inquiring minds want to know. American Medical Response services responded told him she had to get her identification card ONE GOOD TURN DESERVES ANOTHER to the Pikes Peak Lodge, where a military mem- from her husband, who was a few cars ahead of Ð Sept. 13 ber was complaining of labor pains. AMR per- them. It’s always fun to try to enter the base with- Security Forces responded to the Base sonnel arrived on scene and transported the indi- out your ID card. With her cover story in place, Exchange for a minor vehicle accident. It seems vidual to Evans Hospital for further treatment. the woman drove up a few car lengths, made a u- one considerate military member backed out of ALARMING TRENDS CONTINUE: turn, and left the scene. his parking space and kindly waited for another In addition to these entries, there continues TRASHED EQUIPMENT Ð Sept. 12 vehicle to back out before driving away. Well, the to be too many illegitimate alarm activations on A Waste Management employee called big, backing minivan misjudged the distance and base. Among those noted by Security Forces this Security Forces to report an improperly disposed clobbered the compact. How’s that for gratitude? week were three from individuals entering of piece of equipment. The man said that while The bonker backer was issued a citation. improper PIN numbers when entering or exiting emptying a dumpster, he found two Geiger coun- NOISY NEIGHBORS Ð Sept. 13 facilities. Two others were due to improper proce- ters and a battery charger. He further stated that Security Forces responded to base housing dures when activating or deactivating alarms. Waste Management was not authorized to dis- where a military member reported loud noise ** If you have any information on a crime, report pose of such items. Note: Before throwing away coming from outside the residence. Patrols it to Security Forces at 556-4000. Cleared Hot 13th ASOS calls in F-16s armed with 500-pounders By Staff Sgt. Shane Sharp “The F-16s hit the targets we wanted them to 21st Space Wing Public Affairs hit and they did it safely,” said Brazier. “Safety is always a factor in our mind during CAS missions, FORT CARSON, Colo. – The 13th Air especially when we’re doing live bomb drops.” Support Operations Squadron teamed up with two Training missions such as these are a necessi- F-16 Falcons from Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., to ty for the members of the 13th ASOS who have a conduct live bombing missions here Sept. 19. unique position and a vital mission in the Air Force. The live bombing missions provide mutual training “Our position is unique because we’re located to both the pilots and the tactical air controllers on on an Army base, we’re attached to Army units, and the ground. we wear army patches on our Air Force uniforms,” “Opportunities like these are great because we said Brazier. get a chance to practice the bread and butter of our The 13th ASOS mission is vital, because they trade,” said Tech. Sgt. Charles Brazier, 13th ASOS are responsible for coordinating close air support in enlisted terminal attack controller. “The pilots also hostile environments. benefit because they get a chance to train with live “Pilots can’t deliver their ordnance without ordnance.” our okay,” said Tech. Sgt. William Burgum, 13th The training scenario consisted of armored ASOS. “Our guys are key to close air support mis- columns on two different roads on the Fort Carson sions because we have eyes on the target, friendlies, Artillery Impact Area. The 13th ASOS members set and aircraft. Our job is to make sure the targets are up shop at Observation Point 10, located on a ridge taken out and pilots and friendlies are kept safe.” about 3 kilometers away from the targets. Teamwork between controllers on the ground “In a close air support mission, we would and pilots is essential to the success of the mission, communicate with the Army commander to deter- according to Capt. Robert Moschella, 13th ASOS Staff Sgt. Robert Rangell, enlisted terminal mine how best to orchestrate close air support Air Liaison Officer and a former B-1B pilot. attack controller, ties a VS-17 fluorescent assets into his scheme of maneuver,” said Brazier. “We both have a common goal in mind – panel to a Humvee. The panels are used to “We would then identify targets and deconflict destroying the enemy,” said Moschella. “To make help pilots identify friendly forces. friendly personnel and assets. that happen, pilots and controllers on the ground From there we provide direct have to be on the same page to eliminate targets control of the incoming air- and safeguard our troops and assets on the craft – providing them with ground.” situational awareness so they The 13th ASOS members are good at what know where targets and they do, and have proven it over the last two years friendlies are.” in Afghanistan and Iraq. Many of the enlisted ter- Once the pilots had situ- minal attack controllers have had multiple deploy- ational awareness on the ments during the War on Terror. Some of the 13th Artillery Impact Area, they ASOS members attached to the 10th Special Forces were “cleared hot” for their Group have received Bronze Stars for their service. bombing runs and proceeded “Our unit stays busy. It seems like these days to deliver their ordnance – our guys get more real-world experience than train- four Mark-82 500-pound ing because of the current world situation,” said Lt. bombs. Col. Brandon Wagoner, 13th ASOS Commander. Photos by Staff Sgt. Shane Sharp A flash of fiery explo- “But we’re both capable and willing to keep up the Tech. Sgt. William Brugman, 13th Air Support Operations Squadron, zeroes in on a line of old tanks used for targets sion followed by the crack of tempo in the War on Terror.” at Fort Carson prior to the arrival of two F-16 Falcons from Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. ordnance thunder and small mushroom clouds signaled the end of the armored col- umn and success for the mission.

Right: An enlisted terminal attack controller peers through a compass, backing Senior Airman Curtis Krenzke, enlisted terminal attack controller, up modern targeting checks the frequency on a PRC-113 radio used to communicate methods the old with pilots. fashioned way.

* Editor’s note: This is Staff Sgt. Shane Sharp’s last article on our staff. We bid him thanks, and Godspeed as he heads to the Nellis Air Force Base Public Affairs office. Left: The fiery explosion of four Mark-82 500-pound bombs. Above: An enlisted terminal attack controller’s work station, complete with targeting equipment, radio, and maps. Right: Tech. Sgt. Charles Brazier, 13th ASOS enlisted terminal attack controller, signals F-16 pilots with a signal mirror so the pilots will know where the “friendlies” are located prior to dropping bombs. SPACE OBSERVER 14 Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 AT YOUR SERVICE Auto Skills helps keep dogs of winter at bay This Week Defensive Driving, Winter Driving Strategies seminars offered in October By Staff Sgt. Melanie Epperson ditions, the first time driving on Today 21st Space Wing Public Affairs icy, snow-packed roads can be Play Group, 10:30 a.m.-noon at very scary. This seminar gives the Youth Center With the dogs of winter nipping at him the basics, so he knows how Job Orientation, 1-2 p.m. in our heels, a young man’s fancy should to deal with situations like that. Building 350, Room 1016 turn to winter driving strategies, espe- “On beautiful, blue sky Friday cially here in Colorado Springs. days in Colorado Springs, we “About two years ago, Colorado have an average of 40 crashes a Pre-Separation Briefing, 8-9 Springs was rated the worst driving day,” Dewey added. “Just think a.m. in Building 350, Room 1016 environment in the country for a city of how many there are during win- Joining Forces at Elitch its size,” said Grant Dewey, ter. Many people become Gardens from 5-10 p.m. Tickets MasterDrive Driving Coach. “Our stressed during are $17, a meal ticket $6. For tick- driving environment here is almost winter driving ets, call 556-1760. hostile, very intense at the least.” situations and Seafood buffet, 6-8:30 p.m. at For this reason, the Auto Skills therefore often the Enlisted Club. Reservations Center is offering two free one-hour arrive emo- are required. Call 556-4194 seminars, open to all Department of tionally Saturday Defense identification card holders and drained and Thunder Alley, 8:30 p.m. at the their dependents. The Defensive concerned Bowling Center Driving Seminar is scheduled for 6 about their p.m. Oct. 8 at the base auditorium, and return trip.” Sunday the Winter Driving Strategies Seminar Dewey went on to say that the Sunday Brunch, 10 a.m.-1:30 is scheduled for 6 p.m. Oct. 22 at the seminars can help people no matter p.m. at the Officers' Club base auditorium. where they are from. During the Monday “There are so many people out Winter Driving Strategies Seminar, he As this year’s winter driving season there who don’t drive like they should,” addresses things like car control con- approaches, the Auto Skills Center Five dollar per hour discount on said Calvin Gammon, Auto Skills cepts, snow tire ideas and options, skid will offer winter driving strategies Cessna 172s at the Aero Club and defensive driving seminars in Center Manager. “The Defensive prevention and recovery, performance October, at the base auditorium. Tuesday Driving Seminar will teach people how strategies, and survival kit informa- During Fiscal Year 02, the 21st Space Steak Night, 6-8 p.m. at the to drive properly, and also how to deal tion. The Defensive Driving Seminar Wing experienced five non- Officers' Club with local driving styles. The Winter focuses more on survival strategies, reportable mishaps due to winter Driving Strategies Seminar will teach defensive maneuvers, crisis braking, weather. In FY03, there was one Wednesday people how to drive in local condi- environment awareness, and attitude reportable mishap. Advanced framing class, 5-9 tions.” adjustments behind the wheel. p.m. at the Community Activities According to Gammon, military “Most people would agree that The driving seminars are offered Center. Cost is $30. members can be at higher risk for acci- our driving environment is at least on a first-come, first-served basis. No Land and sea family buffet, 5-7 dents in the winter because they don’t challenging and many times frighten- reservations are required. Doors to the p.m. at the Enlisted Club know the local conditions. For exam- ing, because it is aggressive and dan- auditorium open at 5:30 p.m. the nights Thursday ple, he said, if a young man from gerous,” Dewey said. “These seminars of the seminars. Florida is assigned to Colorado without can help people avoid accidents, and For more information, call the Auto Sponsorship Training, 7:30- ever having driven in harsh winter con- build confidence behind the wheel.” Skills Center at 556-4481. 8:30 a.m. in Building 350, Room 1016 Resume Review, 9-11 a.m. in ARAGON DINING FACILITY MENU Building 350, Room 1016 Transition Planning, 1-4 p.m. Today Friday Saturday Sunday in Building 350, Room 1016 Lunch: Lunch: Dinner: Brunch: Brunch: Liver with Onions Beef Corn Pie Yankee Pot Roast Creole Shrimp Cantonese Spareribs Helpful Numbers Seafood Newburg Simmered Corned Savory Baked Chicken Mustard Chicken Orange Spiced Pork Veal Paprika Steaks Beef Swedish Meatballs Oven-Fried Fish Family Advocacy 556-8943 Chop Mustard Greens Pineapple Chicken Asparagus Broccoli Combo Education Center 556-4064 Tempura Fried Fish Harvard Beets Fried Cabbage Creamed Corn County Style Tomatoes Library 556-7462 Broccoli Potatoes Carrots Squash Peas Pea and Pepper Rice Mashed Potatoes Baked Potatoes Macaroni and Cheese Community Center 556-7671 Peas and Carrots Black-Eyed Peas Noodles Jefferson Boiled Egg Noodles Aquatics Center 556-4608 Steamed Rice Sweet Potatoes Fitness Center 556-4462 Rissole Potatoes Officers’ Club 556-4181 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Enlisted Club 556-4194 Dinner: Youth Center 556-7220 Pepper Steak Lunch: Dinner: Lunch: Dinner: Lunch: Dinner: Family Support 556-6141 Mr. Z's Baked Baked Stuff Fish Chili Mac Salmon Cakes Country Captain Sauerbraten Barbecued Chicken Pot Roast Southern Fried Teriyaki Chicken Chicken Grilled Bratwurst Spareribs Red Cross 556-9201 Roast Loin of Pork Chicken Veal Parmesan Turkey A La King Ginger Pot Roast Jaegerschnitzel Lemon Herbed Outdoor Recreation 556-4487 Cauliflower Beef Cannelloni Fried Cabbage Meatloaf (Veal) Chicken Golf Course 556-7810 Mixed Vegetables Combo French-Style Peas Succotash Mustard Greens Cauliflower Stuffed Pork Green Beans Green Beans w/ Glazed Carrots Parsley Buttered Okra and Tomato Harvard Beets Chops Steamed Rice Mushrooms Mashed Potatoes Potatoes Gumbo Spinach Salad Cauliflower Oven-Browned Squash Filipino Rice Steamed Rice Potatoes Au Combo Mashed Potatoes Potatoes Mashed Potatoes Gratin Mexican Corn This Week Steamed Rice Sauerkraut Steamed Rice Scalloped Potatoes SPACE OBSERVER Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 15 www.peterson.af.mil News 64th FIS Association donation brings display closer to life The Peterson Air and Space Museum today’s supersonic, electronic fighters. With pho- Foundation was the recent recipient of a generous tographs, murals, and dioramas, the committee financial donation from a retired Air Force mem- hopes to show visitors how air defense was put ber. together from many sources to function effective- Retired Air Force Col. Bill Smith, a life ly. member of the museum, presented a $3,500 The 64th FIS had its origin in the 64th check to retired Air Force Maj. Gen. George Pursuit Squadron in November 1940, at Mitchell Douglas, Chairman of the Peterson Air and Space Field, N.Y. Throughout WWII, the 64th FIS Museum Foundation, on behalf of the 64th served in Palestine, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Malta, Fighter Interceptor Squadron Association. Sicily, Italy, Corsica, and Florida, earning three The ceremony took place at the F-102 stat- distinguished unit citations, the French Croix de ic display, near Peterson’s Officers’ Club. The Guerre with Palm, and nine campaign streamers. 64th FIS flew the F-102 from 1957 until 1969. The unit was part of the Alaskan Air A committee, led by retired Chief Master Command’s air defense forces until 1957, when it Sgt. Jack McKinney, is working to design a dis- was transferred to the Air Defense Command. In play depicting the history of air defense for North June 1966, the unit’s F-102s were transferred to America, dating from early World War II. Clark Air Base, Republic of the Philippines, to The donated funds will be used in the con- support Southeast Asia combat operations. It was struction of the air defense display in the historic the only Air Defense Command fighter squadron “City Hangar” located on the grounds of the to be deployed to participate in the Vietnam con- Museum’s Airpark. flict. The 64th FIS was deactivated in 1969, and In addition to the financial contribution, the later reactivated as the 64th Aggressor Squadron, 64th FIS has also donated a chromed 2.75-inch flying the F-16 at Nellis AFB, Nev., until it, too, folding-fin aircraft rocket, nicknamed “Mighty was deactivated. Mouse,” which is currently on display in the During its assignment in Vietnam, the unit Museum. This rocket was part of the armament was awarded the prestigious Hughes Trophy, sig- for the F-102s. nifying the Air Force’s top-rated air defense Courtesy photo Part of the focus for the display are activi- squadron. The Hughes Trophy is on display in the The F-102 “Delta Dagger,” flown by the 64th Fighter ties such as ground observers and early radars museum. Interceptor Squadron from 1957-1969, was the world’s first through the evolution of other sensing devices, (Information courtesy of Peterson Air and supersonic all-weather jet interceptor and the U.S. Air and interceptors from propeller-driven fighters to Space Museum) Force’s first operational delta-wing aircraft. SPACE OBSERVER 16 Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 News Air Force reducing OTS students RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas – respond to future needs,” said Brig. Gen. Paul Hankins, Tremendous growth in Air Force Reserve Officer AFOATS commander. “Thirty percent growth over the USAFA Training Corps has reduced the number of officers the last three years in the number of young men and Air Force needs to commission through Officer women pursuing Air Force careers through ROTC commissioning Training School, the commander of Air Education and allows us to decrease the output from OTS and restore Training Command announced recently. flexibility to officer production.” opportunities for Gen. Don Cook said the number of officers com- Air Force Recruiting Service officials said the missioned through ROTC has grown by about 300 more than 200 applicants who have already met an Air enlisted members annually, and ROTC continues to be a steady source for Force selection board to attend OTS will not lose their The Leaders Encouraging Air Development officer accessions entering active duty. slots, but may have class dates delayed up to 12 months. Program is an on-going effort to give our best and As a result, the general said reducing the number Officials, however, expect most candidates will be brightest airmen the opportunity to excel by offer- of students at OTS will help return the school to the offered class dates by August or September 2003. ing them appointments to the US Air Force flexible commissioning program it was designed to be. Hankins said the Air Force Recruiting Service Academy. “OTS has acted as an accordion in balancing offi- and ROTC are still in the market for qualified officer Benefits and requirements include: cer accessions,” Cook said. “When we needed more peo- candidates with scientific and technical talents to fill Full scholarship, room and board. One of the ple commissioned, we could expand OTS production. openings in much-needed specialty fields such as med- best avenues to become a pilot. Conversely, when other commissioning sources, such as ical, health science, scientific, engineering and physics. SAT Verbal 480 and SAT Math 520. ACT ROTC, were providing enough officer accessions to Air Force recruiters are still accepting applica- English 21, Reading 21, Math 23, Science meet Air Force needs, we could contract OTS output.” tions for OTS from qualified candidates to fill flying- Reasoning 23. During the past few years, OTS has been per- related positions such as pilot, navigator, weapons sys- Top 40 percent of high school class or about a forming at peak capacity, which meant the school could tem officer and air battle manager, regardless of degree 2.70 GPA if school does not rank. not provide any flexibility for officer accession end area, said Col. Dwayne Hafer, director of officer acces- Be unmarried, have no dependents, less than strength, Cook said. In fiscal 2002, 1,946 second lieu- sions for Air Force Recruiting Service. 23 years old on July 1 the year entering the tenants received their commissions from the basic offi- “For our enlisted Air Force members who have Academy. cer course at OTS. The program course load was pro- been working toward completing degree requirements An active duty airman does not need to seek a jected at 1,780. with the goal of an Air Force commission, we encour- presidential, vice presidential or congressional Air Force Officer Accession and Training Schools age them to continue,” Hafer said. nomination. at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., conduct the ROTC Commissioning programs available for Air Apply by filling out the online application on and OTS programs for the Air Force. Officials there Force enlisted members include the Airman www.academyadmissions.com or sending in said the growth in ROTC during the past three years Education and Commissioning Program, Airman USAFA Form 0-125, Request for Application by uniquely positions ROTC to become the primary pro- Scholarships and Commissioning Program, Dec. 31 the year before entry. ducer of technically oriented officers for the Air Force. Scholarship for Outstanding Airman to ROTC and the Additional information about the Academy ROTC is already the largest producer of officers for the Professional Officer Course-Early Release Program. and the Prep School may be obtained by calling 1- Air Force – more than 2,500 officers received their Details for these commissioning programs can be 800-443-9266, DSN 333-2520, or commercial 719- commissions through ROTC in fiscal 2002. found at www.afoats.af.mil/AFROTC/Enlisted 333-2520, www.usafa.edu, or www.academyad- “We need flexibility restored to the OTS program Commissioning/Default.htm. missions.com. to ensure the Air Force has short-term capability to (Courtesy of AETC News Service) SPACE OBSERVER Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003 17 www.peterson.af.mil Sports Newest Fitness Center addition rolls out By Tech. Sgt. Michael Phillips and then we’ll form our leagues. bers out for the 21st Space Wing Public Affairs Duell said leagues would proba- grand opening bly start up this year. “We hope to start and ribbon cut- The Peterson Fitness Center’s them by November at the latest. It ting, and to watch newest addition gets “in-line” Tuesday would be a mixed league and would the inaugural as a $255K roller hockey rink will be depend upon how many teams we get. game. “There will dedicated at 1 p.m. Brig. Gen. Duane “It’s a whole new sport for us,” be remarks by Deal, 21st Space Wing Commander, Duell said. Brig. Gen. Deal and Col. Cynthia Snyder, 21st Mission “I thought it would be a great way and Col. Snyder, Support Group Commander, will be to entertain our military members and and then we’ll co-hosts for the ribbon cutting and ded- keep them in shape,” she said. “It’s have the inaugural ication. especially appealing to the younger game. The concrete rink offers people troops – the airmen in the dorms.” “We’re look- yet another place to play, featuring a The facility is complete, said ing for people that Photo by Tech. Sgt. Michael Phillips regulation-size roller hockey rink. Duell, and “actually, it’s being used. have a little expe- The Peterson Fitness Center’s newest addition, a regula- “We’re trying to get the rules She said there will be safety rience to play in tion-size roller hockey rink, opens with a ribbon-cutting together as to how we want to play it,” requirements in addition to the stan- our inaugural ceremony, 1 p.m. Tuesday. said Sharon Duell, Peterson Complex dard equipment. “They’re going to game,” Duell said. Fitness Manager. Initial research have to wear a mouth guard, a helmet, “And then, of check out sticks and pucks – as long as revealed several different sets of roller knee and elbow pads and, of course, the course, we’ll be setting up our they have the proper gear – can go out hockey rules from different sanctioning proper skates. That’s considered per- leagues.” and play.” bodies. “USA Hockey has rules, sonal gear, and they’ll have to make Players interested in signing up People are welcome to play pick- NCAA has rules, and we have local sure they’re wearing it if they’re going for the inaugural game, or finding out up games or just go out and practice rules, which are the Rocky Mountain to play.” more about roller hockey leagues, can their skating. Roller Hockey League rules,” she said. Duell said the Youth Center will contact Chris Hicks, Intramural Duell said in-line skates are “We want to compile some that use the rink for youth leagues. Director, at 556-4475. required. “Also, there are no skateboards are good for Peterson Air Force Base, Duell invites all Team Pete mem- “People who want to come in and allowed – only skates.”