Thursday, May 13, 2004 Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado Vol. 48 No. 19

Inside This Issue: Blotter ... 11 Straight Talk Line 556-9154At Your Service ... 14

“2003 AFSPC Best Large Wing PA Office”

Courtesy photo

Photo by Senior Airman Shawn Clements Courtesy photo

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 20042

Published by Gowdy Printcraft, 22 N. Sierra Madre, Colorado Springs, 80903, a private firm in no way con-

nected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with the 21st Space Wing. This commercial enterprise

Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military services.

Contents of the Space Observer are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government,

the Department of Defense or the Department of the Air Force.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorse-

ment by DOD, the Department of the Air Force, or Gowdy Printcraft, of the products or services advertised. Everything

advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, reli-

gion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of

the purchaser, user or patron.

Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the 21st Space Wing Public Affairs Office, 775 Loring

Ave., Suite 218, Peterson AFB, Colo., 80914-1294. All photographs are Air Force photographs unless otherwise indi-

cated.

The Space Observer is published every Thursday. For advertising inquiries, call Gowdy Printcraft, (719) 634-

1593. Employees of Peterson Air Force Base who want to place a free classified advertisement should call 556-5241.

Articles for the Space Observer should be submitted to the 21st SW/PAI, Attn: Space Observer, 775 Loring

Ave., Ste. 218, Peterson AFB, Colo., 80914-1294 or e-mail space.observer@peterson.af.mil. Deadline for submission

is 4:30 p.m. the Thursday one week before publication. All articles, copy and announcements submitted will be edited

to conform to AFI Series 35 and the Associated Press Stylebook and Libel Manual. For details, call the editor at (719)

556-7846 or DSN 834-7846.

21st Space Wing

CommanderBrig. Gen. Richard E. Webber

Chief of Public Affairs

1st Lt. Michael Andrews

Editorial Staff

Editor

Staff Sgt. Susan Mrowiec

Staff WriterSenior Airman

Shawn Clements

Layout and DesignKara Magana

A Momentin Time

! May 15, 1918 The govern-ment s first permanent airmail routeis inaugurated by Army pilots.! May 16, 1955 U.S. Air Forcemarkings are approved for use onaircraft wings.! May 17, 1919 The WarDepartment orders the use ofnational star insignia on all planes.! May 17, 1983 SpaceCommand broke ground for theConsolidated Space OperationsCenter at Falcon Air Force Station,Colo.! May 19, 1919 Master Sgt.Ralph W. Bottriell makes the firstbackpack-style free-fall parachutejump.

From the top

Action LineSubmitting Action Lines

The Action Line is your direct linkto the 21st Space Wing Commander. Wesuggest you first try to resolve problemsat the lowest level possible with theperson or activity, and then follow thechain of command.

Though it s not required, we askthat you leave your name and phone

number so we can get back to you forclarifications, or if your response isn tprinted. If you can t get satisfactoryresults, call 556-7777. Or you can faxyour question to 556-7848.

Smoking area conundrumQuestion: Why did the Clinic

elect to completely eliminate the only

smoking area when all the majorbuildings are supposed to have a des-ignated smoking area? I understandthe base going to limited smokingareas, but I feel this is very unfair tothose who work in the Clinic andwould like to see that decisionreversed. Thank you.

Answer: The 21st MDG com-

mander determined that smoking near amedical facility is detrimental to themission of the organization. Thereforesmoking was banned from the 21stMDG campus in conjunction with therigorous enforcement of the smokingstandards on base. If you have furtherquestions, call Lt. Col. Mark White at556-5588.

Editor s note The following isan Armed Forces Day message fromSecretary of the Air Force Dr. JamesG. Roche and Air Force Chief of StaffGen. John P. Jumper.

Since 1949, America has paidtribute to its men and women in uni-form by celebrating Armed Forces Dayon the third Saturday in May. GratefulAmericans in every state will holdparades and fly Old Glory to honorthose who have worn the uniform

either as a Soldier, Sailor, Airman orMarine.

It is indeed an important time tobe a member of our nation s ArmedForces and especially to be an Airman.America needs your service today asmuch, if not more, than any other timein our country s history. America ssecurity is a global issue as we contin-ue the fight in the war on terrorism.Our country needs your steadfast devo-tion to protecting the freedoms we

enjoy.Today, we serve a grateful nation.

From shore to shore, Americans areproud of your professional compe-tence, combat capabilities and unwa-vering courage to defend our country.They have seen, firsthand, your effortsin the mountains of Afghanistan andthe skies over Iraq and your steadfast-ness in protecting our homeland. Theyhave reveled with us in your triumphsand cried with us when we lose broth-

ers and sisters in battle.You represent the pride and patri-

otism of the United States. You are thestandard for sacrifice, devotion andbravery. We are proud to serve withyou. On this Armed Forces Day, let sremember those who came before usand those who made the ultimate sacri-fice for our freedom. May God bless allof you and our great nation.

(Courtesy of Air Force PrintNews)

Secretary, chief send Armed Forces Day message

Givingproviders a handKaren Kirshenbaum,the Family Child Carecoordinator, speaksat the FCC ProviderApprecia-tion DinnerMay 7. The awardsbanquet recognizedsome of Team Pete’soutstanding childcare providers.

Photo by Budd Butcher

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 2004 3Newswww.peterson.af.mil

By Amanda Braden21st Space Wing Manpower

Four Team Pete members earned cash awardsfrom the Innovative Development Through EmployeeAwareness Program in the first and second quarters ofthis fiscal year.

The Air Force IDEA Program is a web-basedapplication that offers incentives to encourage militaryand Department of Defense civilians to submit theirideas to increase efficiency and effectiveness, saveresources, improve processes, equipment or products

in the Air Force, DoD and Federal Government.Awards for approved ideas range from a certificate toa $10,000 cash award.

Richard Cox, 21st Space Wing, received $200for his idea to place more direction signs on the indoorrunning track.

Mary Hight, Air Force Space Command plansand programs, received $200 for her idea to providepeople a place to post information so it is accessible tothe base population.

Staff Sgt. Fred Itule, 21st Civil EngineerSquadron, saved the Air Force $64,000 and received

$8,777 for his idea to place tablet personal computersin emergency response vehicles for firefighters to usewhile responding to emergencies.

Master Sgt. Edward Vigil, 137th Space WarningSquadron at Greeley Air National Guard Station,Colo., saved the Air Force $50,433.57 and received$1,513 for his idea to have technicians remove andreplace Electronic Antenna Control Device indicatorlights instead of sending the device to the depot forlight replacement. For more information or to submitan idea, visit https://halfway.peterson. af.mil/21sw/mo/idea.htm.

‘IDEAs’ reward Team Pete members

Congratulations to the first quarteraward recipients.

21st Space Wing recipients:Airman John H. Colosimo, 21st

Maintenance Group, Airman of theQuarter

Tech. Sgt. Jason R. Fitzpatrick,21st Operations Group, NCO of theQuarter

Master Sgt. Larry K. Dozier, 21stMXG, Senior NCO of the Quarter

1st Lt. Richard B. Shoaf, 21stMXG, Company Grade Officer of theQuarter

Martha G. Menjivar, 21stComptroller Squadron, Civilian catego-ry one

Christel Hensley, 21st OG,Civilian category two

Michael J. Puleo, 21st MedicalGroup, Civilian category three

Team Pete recipients:Airman 1st Class Regina R.

Whatley, Joint Personal PropertyShipping Office, Airman of the Quarter

Tech. Sgt. Alfred J. Rhodes III,Detachment 4, Air Force Operations andTest Center, NCO of the Quarter

Master Sgt. Larry K. Dozier, 21stMXG, SNCO of the Quarter

Capt. Tyler S. Green, Det. 4,AFOTEC, CGO of the Quarter

Martha G. Menjivar, 21st CPTS,Civilian category one

Christel Hensley, 21st OG,Civilian category two

Tom A. Lipski, Det. 11, Space andMissile Systems Center

Wing bestows quarterly awards

Congratulations to the Senior NCO Academyclass 04-C graduates. The class graduated from theacademy, located at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala.,on April 28. The students focused on advanced man-

agement and leadership.

Team Pete graduates are:Master Sgt. William Smith, 721st Systems

Center, Distinguished Graduate

Senior Master Sgts. John Harvey, 21st SecurityForces Squadron, and Tyler Foster, 21st Space Wing,and Master Sgt. Dudley Baker, Air Force SpaceCommand

Current watering restrictions allowpeople who have odd numberedaddresses to water their lawns onTuesdays and Staurdays. Residents witheven numbered addresses may water onWednesdays and Sundays. Lawns maybe watered from midnight -- 9 a.m. or 6p.m. -- midnight. Here are some waterconservation tips:

! Water lawns only when needed.! Water when temperatures and

wind speed is at it s lowest. This reducesevaporation losses.

! Position sprinklers so that waterlands on the lawn and shrubs, not on the

paved areas.! Minimize grass areas in your

yard, because less grass means lesswater demand.

! Mulch planting areas to retainmoisture in the soil. Mulching alsohelps control weeds that compete withplants for water.

! Add compost to the soil whenplanting to improve its composition andit helps retain moisture.

! Raise the lawn mower blade tothree inches. A lawn that s cut higherencourages grass roots to grow deeper,shades the root system and holds soil

moisture better than a closely clippedlawn.

! Avoid over fertilizingyour lawn. The applicationof fertilizers increases theneed for water. Apply fertil-izers that contain slow-release, water-solubleforms of nitrogen.

! Group plants togeth-er based on similar waterneeds.

(Courtesy of 21stCivil Engineer SquadronEnvironmental flight)

CE offers water conservation tips

Senior NCOs graduate highest enlisted PME

A graduation ceremonywill be conducted 2 p.m. May21 in the Enlisted Club in honorof the October 2003 and April2004 Community College ofthe Air Force graduates.Graduates and their guests areinvited to attend.

Peterson Air Force Basestudents earned 199 Communi-ty College of the Air Forcedegrees were earned byPeterson Complex students,with 19 graduates earning twodegrees, and one earning threedegrees.

Each graduate will beawarded an Associate ofApplied Science degree fromthe Community College of theAir Force. To earn this degree,graduates must complete a rig-

orous program of study thatincludes technical education;leadership, management, andmilitary studies; program elec-tives; and general education.The degree programs aredesigned to provide graduateswith knowledge, skills and the-oretical background forenhanced performance as tech-nicians and NCOs.

These graduates exempli-fy outstanding dedication tofulfillment of the Air Forcemission and have met the chal-lenges of today s world eventswith professionalism and pride.By achieving their educationalgoals, thereby enhancing pro-fessional and personal educa-tional development, they con-tribute to the Air Force mission

of maintaining a dynamic,high-quality force.

Graduates planning toattend the ceremony should callthe Education Office at 556-4064.

The honored graduatesfor October 2003 and April2004 are:

Staff Sgt. Benedict G.Abac, 21st Area DentalOperations Squadron

Master Sgt. Joseph D.Amos, 21st LogisticsReadiness Squadron

Staff Sgt. Jason R. Banda,2nd Space Warning Squadron

Tech. Sgt. Edward E.Barge, Retired

Master Sgt. Larry D.Barger, Air Force SpaceCommand

Master Sgt. Timothy E.Bigger, 21st Space Wing

Tech. Sgt. Tannya M.Blue, 21st Security ForcesSquadron

Staff Sgt. Jamie R.Booker, Cheyenne MountainOperations Center

Tech. Sgt. Tom E.Borosky, AFSPC

Master Sgt. Michael G.Bracchi, Space Warfare Center

Master Sgt. Sean K.Brady, AFSPC

Tech. Sgt. Gerald V.Butler, AFSPC

Master Sgt. Kent H.Campbell, 21st SpaceCommunications Squadron

Tech. Sgt. Lemuel L.Campbell, Retired

Master Sgt. Michael W.

Cancel, AFSPCStaff Sgt. Stephen E.

Cannon, 21st OperationsSupport Sqduadron

Master Sgt. Johna Y.Copeland, Space and MissileSystems Center, Det. 11

Staff Sgt. Victor CorderoJr., 721st Security Forces Sqd.

Tech. Sgt. Charles J.Coughlin,Retired

Senior Master Sgt.Michael E. Crowley, 21st SW

Staff Sgt. Jamie R. Dana,21st SW

Master Sgt. Tad A. Davis,AFSPC

Master Sgt. CraigDockum, 21st ServicesSquadron

CCAF recognizes graduates in May ceremony

– See CCAF, Page 7

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 20044 News Briefs

Protestant Worship Services:

Liturgical Service, 6:30 p.m. Sat.Traditional Worship Service,

8 a.m. Sun.Sunday School 9:35 a.m. Sun.

Contemporary/InspirationalService, 11 a.m. Sun.

CatholicWeekday Mass, 11:35 a.m.

(except Monday)Saturdays, 5 p.m.

Sundays, 9:30 a.m.Reconciliation Saturdays, 4 p.m.

**For more information - Call the chapel at 556-4442 for

available chapel programs.

Chapel Schedule

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY DAY SETThe 21st Space Wing hosts a Motorcycle Safety

Day from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. May 21 at the base pic-nic grounds. Lt. Gen. Daniel P. Leaf, Air Force SpaceCommand vice commander, will lead a group ofmotorcycle riders from the Air Force Space CommandHeadquarters building on a designated route to the basepicnic grounds.

There will be free motorcycle safety inspectionsfor anyone with a motorcycle or anyone wishing tolearn how to perform the inspections. Several motorcy-cle vendors from around the community will be there toshow off their motorcycles and safety equipment.

The Air Force Academy Band Blue Steelensemble will provide entertainment. The booster clubfrom the 21st Civil Engineering Squadron will be sell-ing food and drinks, come on out and enjoy the bandand grab a bite to eat.

Everyone with valid access to Peterson Air ForceBase is invited to attend and learn from certifiedmotorcycle instructors with many years of teachingand riding experience. For more information or if youwould like to ride with General Leaf, call Tech. Sgts.Don Finley or Terrell Grant at 556-4956.

CITY CELEBRATES ARMED FORCESDAY

The Interquest Rotary Club and the ColoradoSprings Chamber of Commerce will host an ArmedForces Day ceremony Saturday at Memorial Park. Thisfree event features flyovers, games, prizes and more.For more information, visit http://www.join-r-forces-day.org.

BUILDING RENOVATION SETRenovation on the front entrance of the Mission

Support building began Monday and are scheduled tolast until Aug. 3. A temporary sidewalk built aroundthe construction area allows access to the frontentrance to the building. For more information, callErnie Branch at 556-1422.

MED GROUP ANNOUNCES CLOSUREThe 21st Medical Group Clinic closes at 12:30

p.m. June 3 for training. The refill pharmacy at the

commissary will be open.

FITNESS CENTER COLLECTS FOODDONATIONS

The Fitness Center is collecting donations ofnonperishable food items through May 28 for theSilver Key Senior Services. Silver Key SeniorServices is an organization that helps support less for-tunate senior citizens. Donations are needed through-out the year. The food pantry is currently running lowon easy-to-prepare nonperishable food items.

CCAF SCHEDULES GRADUATIONThe 2004 Community College of the Air Force

graduation ceremony begins at 2 p.m. May 21 at theEnlisted Club. Graduates and their guests are encour-aged to attend. Graduates planning to attend shouldcall the Education Office at 556-4064.

FITNESS CENTER CONSTRUCTION SETThe Fitness and Sports Center is building a sec-

ond level over the dumbbell room for storage and toreinforce the floor of the Health and Wellness Centerunit above the free weight room. Construction is esti-mated to be completed July 19. During that time, thedumbbell room will be moved to share half of theSpinning Room.

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIESAVAILABLE

Service members, their families and veterans cannow search for scholarships online. To search forscholarships, visit http://www.military.com/Education/ScholarShip/newsearch.

CLINIC ROOF CONSTRUCTIONThe work on the 21st Medical Group roof has

been postponed for two weeks. The new project completion date is May 28.

FIT-TO-FIGHT RUN SCHEDULEDGen.Lance W. Lord, commander Air Force SpaceCommand, will lead all uniformed members ofAFSPC Headquarters in a Spring Fit-to-Fight 1.5mile run. The event will be held 10 a.m. May 13starting at the base parade grounds. For more infor-

mation, call Senior Master Sgt. J.J. Christian, HQAFSPC Fitness Program Manager at 554-4490.

SUMMER BASEBALL REGISTRATIONThe R. P. Lee Youth Center is taking summer

baseball registration for children ages 3 15. For moreinformation, call the Youth Center at 556-5242.

SCRAMBLE GOLFA foursome golf outing is scheduled June 11 at 1

p.m. at the Fort Carson Golf Course. The price of $65includes green fees, cart and lunch. For more infor-mation or to sign up, call the Colorado SpringsChapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., at 719-963-8969.

AFCEA LUNCHEON SETThe Armed Forces Communications and

Electronics Association is holding a luncheon May 20at the Enlisted Club. Jake Henry, NORAD/NORTH-COM programs and resources director, will speakabout NORAD/NORTHCOM capabilities and require-ments. The luncheon will recognize the 2004 ScienceFair winners from local schools. The cost is $12. Formore information or to make a reservation, call JudyArnold at 277-4028 or Judee Albert at 277-4007.

PARKING LOT CLOSURE SCHEDULEDThe lodging office parking lot is closed until

midnight May 23. For more information, call ErnieBranch at 556-1422.

FTAC ADVISORY COUNCIL MEETINGSCHEDULED

The next First Term Airmen Center AdvisoryCouncil Meeting will be 3:45 p.m. May 27 in theMsiions Support Center, Room 1052.

Commanders, first sergeants, superintendents,supervisors, and other interested members of TeamPete are invited. For further information, call MasterSgt. Kristin Clark at 556-9158.

ENLISTED INSTRUCTORS NEEDEDThe Air Force ROTC program has instructor

openings for technical and master sergeants. For more information, call 1-800-522-0033, Ext.

2352.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 2004 5

www.peterson.af.mil News

The 21st Space Wing activatedMay 15, 1992. This event is significant inthe history of space because the 21st SWhas become the largest military spacewing in the world, according to the 21stSW History office.

The new space wing received thelineage and honors of the 21st TacticalFighter Wing (1979-1992), the 21stComposite Wing (1966-1979), the 21stTactical Fighter Wing (1958-1960), the21st Fighter Bomber Wing (1953-1958),the 21st Fighter Group (1944-1946) andthe 21st Bombardment Group (1942-1943). Air Staff decided to grant the newspace wing the lineage and honors of

these distinguished flyingunits in order to preserveessential Air Force heritage.For example, during a four-month aerial campaign overJapan in 1945, the 21stscored more than 60 con-firmed aerial victories andhad two aces, Maj. HarryCrimm and Capt. Willis Matthews,according to the 21st SW History Office.

The personnel and equipment ofthe 21st Space Wing resulted from amerger between two other units, the 1stSpace Wing and the 3d Space SupportWing. The 1st Space Wing, which oper-

ated and managed groundand space-based sensors, hadactivated on Jan. 1, 1983.The 3d Space Support Wing,which acted as host base forPeterson and CheyenneMountain Air Force Bases,now Cheyenne Mountain AirForce Station, had activated

Oct. 15, 1986. Both inactivating wingsreceived Air Force Outstanding UnitAwards, according to the 21st SWHistory Office.

Gen. Donald J. Kutyna, Air ForceSpace Command commander, and pre-siding official, spoke at the ceremony,

Our new organization reflects the waythe Air Force will look in the 90s self-contained wings which include their ownorganic support groups and focus on theoperational employment of air and spacepower, according to the 21st SW HistoryOffice.

General Kutyna further commentedthat a larger wing and a larger historyhad been achieved with the merger, andThe 21st will carry that heritage for-

ward into, very appropriately, the 21stCentury, according to the 21st SWHistory Office.

(Information courtesy of the 21stSpace Wing History Office)

Occupational, educational grants availableIn August 2003, the base formed a partnership withthe Pikes Peak Workforce Center to provide fundingfor military spouses and civilian employees toexpand their employment skills. This $2.7 milliongrant offers occupational, computer-based, on-the-job and educational training certification throughlocal educational institutions. People may qualify ifthey are a military spouse who was working at thesponsor s last duty station and is currently unem-ployed due to relocation, or is a civil service employ-ee currently in a reduction in force status. For moreinformation, call the Peterson Family Support Centerat 556-6141.

NCO retraining enters Phase II The Fiscal2004 NCO Retraining Program Phase II has enteredinvoluntary phase implementation I. Due to the lowvoluntary retraining rate, phase II involuntary

retraining must be implemented to maintain a bal-ance of Air Force enlisted specialties. The involun-tary phase will be implemented only for thoseAFSCS that did not meet retraining out-targets underphase I. For more information, call the base retrain-ing manager at 556-7400.

Command screening board to meet TheCY04 Command Screening Board meets Aug. 16 atRandolph Air Force Base, Texas, to select candidatesto compete for wing and group commander positionsfor the next assignment cycle. Eligible officers willreceive a notification letter, career brief, CSB guide-line sheet, and an acknowledgement and intentmemo by June 18.

Officers must go to their MPF and acknowl-edge their selection by July 7 and must provide a let-ter of intent by July 27.

Enlisted aides needed The Air Force SeniorLeadership Management Office is looking for enthu-siastic, mature and professional applicants with theright attitude and strong culinary skills to fill the fol-

lowing enlisted aide openings: Kadena Air Base,Japan, Aviano AB, Italy and Randolph AFB, Texas.

The report no later than date is June 30.Applications will be accepted until May 17 fromcareer Airmen, senior airman through master ser-geant. Applications should include a copy of the lastfive enlisted performance reports, a resume, two 8-inch by 10-inch photographs in service dress and aletter of recommendation from your commander andcommand chief.

Packages should be prepared in accordancewith Air Force Instruction 36-2123, Management ofEnlisted Aides, and mailed to Senior Master Sgt.Gary Murdock, AFSLMO Crystal Plaza 6, Suite500, 2221 S. Clark St., Arlington, Va. 22202.

MSS receives Air Force awards The 21stMission Support Squadron Civilian Personnel flightreceived the Middle to Large Central CPF of the yearaward and the Education Center received the NathanAltschuler for Excellence in Education Programsaward.

Personnel Corner

21st Space Wing celebrates 15th anniversary

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 2004 7

www.peterson.af.mil News

The new Air Force UniformKnow the facts. Visi t ht tp: / /www.af.mi l /uniform/#

Your l ink to frequent ly asked quest ions, let ters, and photos.

Staff Sgt. Christa L.Duknoski, 21st MaintenanceOperations Flight

Staff Sgt. Alvin R. Dye,21st Medical Support Squadron

Staff Sgt. Cari D. Ellis,21st Aeromedical DentalSquadron

Staff Sgt. MelanieEpperson, separated

Staff Sgt. Brandy M.Fleer-Williams, 21st SCS

Master Sgt. Bobby M.Hamilton, U.S. NorthernCommand

Master Sgt. Larry A.Harrison, U.S. NORTHCOM

Senior Airman Joni S.Haston, 21st Medical Group

Staff Sgt. Brandy L.Heckard, U.S. NORTHCOM

Master Sgt. Corey G.Hewitt, 821st Air Base Group

Staff Sgt. Amy L. Hilbun,13th Air Support OperationsSquadron

Master Sgt. Kirk D.Holland, 821st ABG

Staff Sgt. Clinton Hubbell,721st Communica-tions

SquadronTech. Sgt. William J.

Hughes, AFSPCStaff Sgt. Timothy W.

Hulmes, 21st SCSStaff Sgt. Maria Theresa P.

Ibanez, 21st Medical SupportSqaudron

Tech. Sgt. Gregory N.Jensen, 21st ContractingSquadron

Staff Sgt. Melissa B.Johnson, SWC

Tech. Sgt. Richard C.Johnson, AFSPC

Master Sgt. Phillip N.Jordan, Peterson NCO Academy

Tech. Sgt. Timothy B.Kasper, U.S. NORTHCOM

Master Sgt. Jaimie E.King, SWC

Master Sgt. Paul B.Laspee, SWC

Master Sgt. John K.Lenon, U.S. NORTHCOM

Master Sgt. Todd L.Lokey, 21st SFS

Master Sgt. Richard A.Lopez, U.S. NORTHCOM

Tech. Sgt. Daniel Lucero,PNCOA

Master Sgt. Ronald L.

Luvisi, 21st Mission SupportSquadron

Staff Sgt. James B.Mallard Jr., 21st MDOS

Tech. Sgt. Aljavan MartinJr., 21st Civil EngineerSquadron

Master Sgt. James H.McLain III, North AmericanAerospace Defense

Staff Sgt. Aimee A.McLaren, 21st ADOS

Staff Sgt. Molly R. Miller,21st SW

Master Sgt. Todd L.Miller, SMC, Det. 11

Tech. Sgt. William F.Miller, SWC

Staff Sgt. Gerald E.Mishloney, 1st Space ControlSquadron

Tech. Sgt. Gregory P.Morgan, CMOC

Staff Sgt. Diane K.Newkirk, 21st SVS

Master Sgt. Shawn L.Ooley, AFSPC

Senior Airman Jeffery B.Patrick, 13th ASOS Oper

Tech. Sgt. Douglas L.Peacock, 21st SCS

Airman 1st Class

Christopher M. Perricone, 13thASOS

Master Sgt. Page E.Pinkney, CMOC

Staff Sgt. Brandy D.Powers, SWC

Senior Airman Tanisha A.Pryor, 21st LRS

Staff Sgt. Paul G. RaymanJr., 21st OSS

Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey A.Reasoner, SWC

Senior Airman Kathryn D.Romer, NORAD

Tech. Sgt. Margaret A.Ryan, 21st Operations Group

Staff Sgt. Shavon E.Salausa, AFSPC

Staff Sgt. Melissa D.Sanchez, 21st Mission SupportGroup

Master Sgt. Douglas J.Sanderson, AFSPC

Master Sgt. Rey C.Santacruz, SMC, Det. 11

Staff Sgt. Jeffrey G.Sharpmack, 21st SFS

Staff Sgt. Jerome K. Shell,21st MOF

Staff Sgt. Vanessa G. Soto,U.S. NORTHCOM

Master Sgt. John D.

Spadaro, 721st MSGMaster Sgt. Dean A.

Walker, 21st MOFMaster Sgt. Teresa M.

Ward, U.S. NORTHCOMStaff Sgt. Catherine C.

Warman, 21st MSSMaster Sgt. William Warr,

2nd SWSTech. Sgt. Shane E.

Warye, PNCOAStaff Sgt. Janna S. Wesley,

AFSPCStaff Sgt. Sheryl L.

Wilcox, SMC, Det. 11Tech. Sgt. Jennifer D.

Williams, 21st MDOSMaster Sgt. Sonya Y.

Williams, 21st MaintenanceGroup

Staff Sgt. Diana M.Wilson, 21st OSS

Master Sgt. Richard A.Wiltberger, 21st OG

Master Sgt. Robert D.Woods, AFSPC

Staff Sgt. Barbara Zagar,21st ADOS

Senior Airman MichelleR. Zeller, 21st CONS

(Courtesy of EducationOffice)

– CCAF, from Page 3

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 20048 News

In December 1983, recognizing the need to haveits own institution where NCOs could develop andrefine their skills, Maj. Gen. Ralph E. Spraker, 1stSpace Wing commander, requested a professional mil-itary education center here. At its inception, the goalof the Air Force Space Command NCO PME Centerwas to make good NCOs better! The intent of theCenter was to provide all three phases of enlistedPME: NCO Orientation, NCO Leadership School andNCO Academy.

Established in May 1984, the Air Force SpaceCommand Leadership School was the first approvedstep in General Spraker s vision. The next stepoccurred when Chief Master Sgt. Lincoln D. Jeffusbecame the first commandant with two classrooms, astaff of five, and a student body of 31. The first grad-uation held another milestone when Navy PettyOfficer Timothy M. Foran became the first Navalgraduate.

As times changed, the Air Force changed, and thePME center experienced similar growth.

Leadership changed hands and the second com-mandant, Chief Master Sgt. Thomas Ball, was appoint-ed. He continued the quest to enhance and educate theenlisted corps.

In June 1991, Chief Master Sgt. Deborah S.Canjar took the helm at the PME center. She was thefirst female enlisted commandant in the Air Force. Inaddition to the many NCO Leadership School and

Academy challenges she undertook, she increased thecurriculum by standing up the new NCO PreparatoryCourse for senior airman.

More classrooms and staff were needed to meetthe rising demand for NCO PME. Originally housed inthe Education Center here, it quickly became apparenta larger facility was needed. The PME Center movedto its current location, Bldg. 1142 Oct. 8, 1991.

The PME Center was dedicated in memory ofMedal of Honor recipient, Tech. Sgt. Forrest L. VoslerSept. 9, 1992. Sergeant Vosler was an NCO who set anexample of courage and dedication, for all NCOs.Although Sergeant Vosler passed in February 1992, hiswife, Virginia Vosler, cut the ribbon opening the doorsto the new Forrest L. Vosler PME Center.

In November 1993, NCO Academies realignedunder the new College for Enlisted ProfessionalEducation. This event brought about a new era for theenlisted PME realignment and the Forrest L. VoslerPME Center. The Airman Leadership School becamepart of the 21st Space Wing, Mission SupportSquadron and was relocated back to the EducationCenter. This realignment enabled the NCO Academyto increase its student capacity to 90 students.

In June 1996, Chief Canjar passed the baton ofleadership to Chief Master Sgt. Rodney E. Ellison, thecurrent Command Chief for Air Combat Command.Chief Master Sgt. Anthony M. Mira assumed theduties of commandant in July 1998. Under his tenure,

the school expanded from six to nine flights. In January 2001, Chief Master Sgt. Alexander M.

Reyna took over as commandant. At this time theschool was relocated to temporary facilities in a ware-house as the school was expanded. The ribbon was cuton the newly expanded building in January 2002. Thisincreased the student load from 90 to 135 per class.

April of 2003 welcomed the seventh and currentcommandant of the Forrest L. Vosler NCO Academy,Chief Master Sgt. Aliquippa D. Allen.

Since the schools doors originally opened in1985, more than 10,000 NCOs have graduated fromthe Forrest L. Vosler PME Academy. In 20 years, it hasmarked many firsts: First Air Force ALS graduation,first female commandant of an NCO Academy andthrough 2003 the only NCO Academy to have beencommanded solely by enlisted commandants.Through numerous changes in its short history, theForrest L. Vosler NCO PME Center continues its tra-dition of excellence. We make good NCOs better.

At 10:15 a.m. May 20, the Forrest L. Vosler NCOAcademy celebrates 20 years of excellence here. Thestaff and students of class 04-4, invite Team Pete tocome out and celebrate this wonderful occasion. Thefinal graduation ceremony for class 04-4 takes place atthe flagpole directly in front of the Forrest L. VoslerNCO Academy, across the street from the base FitnessCenter.

(Courtesy of the Peterson NCOA)

Peterson NCOA celebrates 20th anniversary

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SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 2004 9

www.peterson.af.mil Commentary

By Susan GoldenCommunity Resource Consultant

You relocated but your job didn t!We know the many sacrifices you havemade and continue to make for yourcountry by supporting your husband orwife.

You may have given up educa-tional and career opportunities to fol-low your spouse to the next assigmentor have never been settled in one place

long enough to pursue your goals. If that s the case, you may be

interested in the Military SpouseGrant.

It offers funding for training andeducation to make you more employ-ment ready.

The Peterson Family SupportCenter has partnered with the PikesPeak Workforce Center to offerresources to expand your job skills andenable you to pursue the career path of

your choice. To be eligible, you mustbe the spouse of an active-duty mili-tary member, have lost your job at yourprevious base of assignment due to apermanent change of station within thelast five years or are currently unem-ployed or underemployed and have notheld a full-time position paying thesame or higher salary than your previ-ous job.

Some of the programs offeredthrough the Military Spouse Grant are:

comprehensive assessment that identi-fies your strengths and areas of oppor-tunity, education and training certifi-cates through local education institu-tions, computer-based training and on-the-job training and many employmentrelated workshops.

A weekly Job/EmploymentOrientation is held at 1 p.m. Thursdaysin the Mission Support Center.

For more information, call 556-6141.

Military spouse employment relocation program

It’s coming –are you ready?

Seventeen days and counting...

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 2004 11

www.peterson.af.mil

The complete Airman’s Manual isnow available online! Browse

sections for review or test yourknowledge of today’s

Air Force with online quizzes.

https://commweb.hill.af.mil/AMT/

And that’s just the beginning. Once you enlist, you’ll alsoreceive a good starting salary with regular pay raises, tax-free housing and food allowances. Not to mention opportu-nities for higher education and full retirement benefits after20 years of service. Visit our Web site at AIRFORCE.COMor call 1-800-423-USAF.

CROSS INTO THE BLUE

WELCOME TO THE AIR FORCE

The following real-life events with real individu-als from around Peterson are to inform you of crimes,accidents and events occurring on base. These entriesare from hundreds recorded in the Peterson PoliceBlotter:

**Editor s note: Although the Space Observerstaff may make light of blotter entries, the intent is tocall attention to our security and law enforcement con-

cerns. However, rest assured, our professional securi-ty forces treat each incident seriously.EAGLE EYES – April 28

Security forces received an Eagle Eyes reportfrom the law enforcement desk at the Visitor s Center.The caller reported a woman stated that she needed tospeak with a general because government planes andsatellites were affecting her communications.VEHICLE VANDALIZATION – April 28

Security forces responded to the thrift shopwhere a person reported that someone caused damageto her vehicle. The sneaky snake smashed one of thecar windows and fled the scene.DEFIANT DRIVER – May 1

A security forces member called the SFCC tohave a driver s license checked. A background checkrevealed that the dufus driver had a suspended license.

The Colorado Springs Police Department respondedand issued a summons for driving with a suspendedlicense.SHOPLIFTING – May 3

Security forces responded to the Base Exchange,where two shoplifting suspects were being detained forusing a five-finger discount on five compact discs andmakeup totaling $61.39. CSPD responded and issued asummons for shoplifting to both of the boneheads.ALARMING TRENDS CONTINUE:

In addition to these entries, there continue to betoo many false alarm activations on base. Among thosenoted this week were three activations due to humanerror.

** If you have any information on a crime or anyof these blotter entries, report it to security forces at556-4000.

News

By Senior Master Sgt. Ty Foster21st Space Wing Public Affairs

Last week, Iron Mike and Team 21emerged victorious from this year s GuardianChallenge 2004 competition held atVandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., bringinghome the Aldridge Trophy for Best SpaceOperations Wing.

During the awards banquet, Brig. Gen.Douglas M. Fraser, director of Air and SpaceOperations at Headquarters Air Force SpaceCommand, said, Tonight, we honor you thefinest space and missile professionals in theworld.

The 20th Space Control Squadron earnedtop honors as the Best Space OperationsCrew. Winning crewmembers are: Capt.Jennifer Berger, Staff Sgt. Robert Widrick andAirman 1st Class Jennifer McCord. This team,along with Capt. Michael Bruno and Tech. Sgt.Kenneth DeFeo, from the 137th Space WarningSquadron at Greeley Air National GuardStation, Colo., brought the title of Best SpaceOperations Team home for the 21st SpaceWing.

To win the Aldridge, Team 21 put up asolid showing in all categories entered. OtherTeam 21 Guardian Challenge 2004 membersand their accomplishments are:

Staff Sgt. David Kisner and SeniorAirman Jon McCullar from the 21st SpaceCommunications Squadron are the No. 2 SpaceCommunications Team in AFSPC.

Staff Sgt Jason Shaw and Airman 1stClass Frederick Guild from the 21st ServicesSquadron are the No. 2 Chef s Team in AFSPCand ranked No. 1 in the Immersion HeaterCategory.

Staff Sgt. Matthew Tussey from the 137thSWS at Greeley ANGS, Greeley Colo.,brought home the AFSPC Sharpshooter Award.The award recognizes the individual competitorwith the highest marksmanship rating. TheMarksmanship event measures the competitors

ability to identify and engage a variety ofenemy targets at varying distances in a hostileenvironment.

Guardian Challenge assesses Air ForceSpace Commands mission readiness as teamsfrom throughout the command challenge eachother to determine which unit is the best of thebest in their respective fields. The competitionprovides the testing ground for the combatcapabilities key to Americas space and missileprofessionals while investing in esprit de corps.

Complete score listings and additionalinformation on the competition can be foundat: http://www.vandenberg.af.mil /guardian-challenge.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Edmund K. Gibbons IIIAirman 1st Class Frederick Guild and Staff Sgt. Jason Shaw from 21st Services Squadron, run with anassembled M2 burner during the timed Chefs M2 Burner Event at Guardian Challenge May 3.

Photo by Larry Hulst

Photo by Senior Airman Nicole WarrenABOVE: Senior Airman Jon McCullar generates a digital test signal to send over aline to analyze the quality of the circuit as part of the Guardian ChallengeCommunications competition.BELOW: Flight Sergeant Ken Callaghan and Corporal Andy Leckey, Royal Air ForceFylingdales, compete at their home station as part of the Guardian ChallengeOperations Team.

Photo courtsey of 21st Operations Support SquadronPhoto by Airman 1st Class Edmund K. Gibbons III

ABOVE: Team 21 members celebrate after theirsuccess at Guardian Challenge. Fellow TeamPete members turned out to greet the competi-tors on the flight line after their Aldridge Trophywin.RIGHT: Staff Sgt. Matthew Tussey, from the137th Security Forces Flight, Greeley Colo.,aggress opposing forces during the SecurityForces Competition for Guardian ChallengeMay 4. Guardian Challenge, the world’s premierspace and missile competition, is a four-dayevent hosted annually at Vandenberg Air ForceBase, Calif., to test the wartime readiness of AirForce Space Command’s finest professionals inthe spacelift, ICBM operations, communica-tions, maintenance, helicopter operations,security forces, and chef food preparation dis-ciplines.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 200414 News

Today! Raft Guide training begins at

Outdoor Recreation for those at

least 18 years old.

! Going Overseas Briefing, 8-9

a.m. at the Mission Support

Center, Room 1016.

! Smooth Move Briefing, 9-

11:30 a.m. at the MSC, Room

1016.

Friday:! Social Hour, 5-7 p.m. at the

Enlisted Club

Saturday:! Thunder Alley, 8:30 p.m. at the

Bowling Center.

Tuesday:! Sponsorship Training, 7:30-

8:30 a.m. in the MSC, Room 1016.

! Car Buying, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

at the MSC, Room 1016.

Wednesday:! Preseparation Briefing 8-9 a.m.

in the MSC, Room 1016. This is a

mandatory briefing for those retir-

ing or separating from the military.

May 20:! Play Group, 10:30 a.m.-noon at

the Youth Center.

! Career Marketing, 8 a.m.-noon

at the MSC, Room 1016.

Helpful Numbers! Family Advocacy 556-8943

! Education Center 556-4064

! Library 556-7462

! Community Center 556-7671

! Aquatics Center 556-4608

! Fitness Center 556-4462

! Officers’ Club 556-4181

! Enlisted Club 556-4194

! Youth Center 556-7220

! Family Support 556-6141

! Red Cross 556-9201

! Outdoor Recreation 556-4487

! Golf Course 556-7810

This Week

By Margie Arnold21st Services Squadron

After a good work-out at the Fitness Centeror lap swims at theAquatics Center, youmay want a good lunchthat fits a healthylifestyle.

That good lunch iscloser than you think.Low-carb wraps are nowavailable at the BowlingCenter and at theEnlisted Club.

The BowlingCenter offerslow-carb wheatwraps: chickenCaesar, tunawrap and theSouthwesternbeef wrap.Each one is 11grams of netcarbs. Wrapsinclude celeryand carrotsticks. You canalso get a chefsalad andchoice of low-calorie dressing. Thewraps and chef salad are available rightinside the door at the counter. That

makes it a quick andhealthy lunch stopafter your workout.

Enlisted ClubManager GarryShaffer said theyhave also jumped on

the low-carb bandwagon. Customers can now have that

specialty sandwich as a wrap instead.

The wraps have only 6 grams of carbs,and you can have it with fries or a sidesalad. For folks on a low-carb diet, thesewraps are great.

For Fit-to-Fight warriors, this foodis fit to eat so you stay trim and hard tobeat.

Don t worry. If you love high-carb, high-calorie foods, they have thattoo.

It’s a wrap

SaturdayBrunch:

Crispy Baked ChickenCajun Meat Loaf

Ribeye SteakBaked Potatoes

Mashed PotatoesBroccoli

French Style PeasGlazed Carrots

SundayBrunch:

Tuna and NoodlesSauerbraten

Chicken Breast ParmesanAu Gratin PotatoSteamed Rice

Cauliflower ComboPeas

Fried Cabbage

Lunch:Chili Mac

Beef CannelloniSouthern Fried

ChickenCottage Fried

PotatoesMashed PotatoesSteamed SquashGlazed Carrots

Peas

Dinner:Pot Roast

Baked Stuff FishRoast Loin Of Pork

Oven BrownPotatoes

Steamed RiceCauliflower Combo

SuccotashGreen Beans with

Mushroom

MondayLunch:

Country CaptainChicken

Meat LoafTurkey a-La-King

Steamed Rice Mashed Potatoes

Harvard BeetsMustard GreensOkra and Tomato

Gumbo

Dinner:Teriyaki ChickenVeal ParmesanSalmon CakesFilipino Rice

Parsley ButteredPotatoes

Fried CabbageSuccotash

Mixed Vegetable

TuesdayLunch:

Beef SukiyakiSzechwanChicken

Sweet and SourPork

Steamed RicePork Fried RiceFried CabbageGlazed Carrots

Vegetable Stir Fry

Dinner:Barbecue Ham

SteakTurkey and

NoodlesBeef Ball

StroganoffEgg Noodles

Mashed PotatoesCalico Corn

SpinachLima Beans

Wednesday

TodayLunch:

Herbed BakedChicken

Stuffed Cabbage RollsSouthern Fried CatfishBlack-eyed Peas with

RiceMashed Potatoes

Fresh Sweet Potatoes Mixed Vegetables

Peas

Dinner:Roast Loin of PorkJaegersnitzel withMushroom Sauce

Glazed Cornish HenPotato HalvesOrange Rice

CarrotsSimmered Pinto

BeansCorn Combo

Lunch:Mexican Baked ChickenSwiss Steak with Tomato

SauceStuffed Green PepperBaked Macaroni and

Cheese Steamed Rice

Corn on the CobSpanish Style Beans

Peas and Carrots

Dinner:Lasagna

Spaghetti with MeatSauce

Sweet Italian SausageMashed PotatoesBroccoli Polonaise

CauliflowerItalian Style Baked

Beans

FridayARAGON DINING FACILITY MENU

Photo by Margie Arnold

Folks at the Fitness Center sample a new Fit to Go lunchwhich includes low-carb wraps from the Bowling Center.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 200416

By Thom Robinson11th Wing Public Affairs

WASHINGTON Almost 50years after the Greatest Generationsaved the world, a grateful nation paidits respects to the 16 million Americanswho served freedom s cause with theopening of the World War II Memorialhere April 29.

While the official dedication cer-emony for the landmark will not occuruntil May 29, National Park Serviceofficials decided on a soft openingfor a number of reasons. The primaryreason being the number of survivingWorld War II veterans is dwindling,and about 1,100 of them pass awayevery day, officials said.

From idea to completion, theWorld War II Memorial has takenalmost 20 years to be realized. In 1993,President Bill Clinton signed the billauthorizing the memorial to be built. In1995, the memorial site was dedicatedand construction began in September2001.

Early on, project critics were con-cerned about the size and placement ofthe proposed memorial distractingfrom other landmarks in the area, butthose fears seem to have been unwar-ranted, officials said. Many who havepreviewed the new memorial havepraised its design, placement andappropriateness, officials said.

The monument design includessweeping views both east and west of

the Lincoln Memorial and theWashington Monument. It featuresgranite pillars, a large paved plaza, arcsof stone, low waterfalls, bronze

wreaths and 4,000 gold stars eachstar representing 100 military deaths.

Some people who have visited thememorial said it inspires reflection,

gratitude, pride and patriotism. It iseverything a memorial to the heroismdisplayed by the Greatest Generationshould be.

Around the Air ForceLong-awaited World War II Memorial opens

Photo by Master Sgt. Jim VarhegyiWASHINGTON – Secretary of the Air Force, Dr. James G. Roche (right), visits with members of the Air Forces Escapeand Evasion Society at the newly opened World War II Memorial May 3. The society, formed in 1964 by former B-17pilot Ralph Patton (center in hat), comprises both U.S. Airmen who successfully evaded capture after bailing out oftheir aircraft over Europe in World War II and a number of the European civilians who helped them.

Final standings

Competitive league W L1. HQAFSPC/XO 6 22. Team Colorado 5 33. 21 SCS/SCMTR 5 34. 21 CES/CEOW 4 45. HQ AFSPC/XP 0 8

Recreation league1. DET 4 AFOTEC 10 22. 21 OG/OSS 6 43. AFSPC/CSS 7 54. AFSPC/IG 5 65. ARSTART 5 66. Team Colorado 5 77. 21 CONS/LGCA 4 78. 21 SCS/SCBBC 2 7

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 2004 17

www.peterson.af.mil SportsIntramural Volleyball standings

WALL CLIMBINGClimbing Wall Safety Classes are

4:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 11:30 a.m.Wednesdays in the Fitness Center. Formore information, call 556-1515.

OPEN CLIMBINGOpen climbing for certified

climbers is 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.Tuesdays and Thursdays. For moreinformation, call 556-1515.

TAE KWON DOTae kwon do classes are 6-7 p.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays for childrenages 7 to 12, and 7-8 p.m. for peopleages 13 and older. Cost is $40 permonth for the first family member, and$30 per month for additional familymembers. For more information, call556-1515.

BACK-TO-BASICS CIRCUITCOURSE

The Back-to-Basics CircuitCourse is 11 a.m. Mondays, 5:10 p.m.Tuesdays, 6 a.m. and 11 a.m.Wednesdays, and 11 a.m. and 6:15 p.m.Fridays. The course features 15 exercis-es and self-paced cardiovascular train-ing.

INTRAMURAL VOLLEYBALLIntramural volleyball games are

Mondays and Wednesdays from 11a.m.- 2 p.m. and from 5-9 p.m. Formore information, call 556-1515.

GOLF TOURNAMENTSCHEDULED

The Air Force SergeantsAssociation will host a GolfTournament 8 a.m. May 21 at the golfcourse. For more information, visithttp://www.afsa1181.org.

SOCCER FIELD CONSTRUCTION SET

The soccer field will be closeduntil June 16 for seeding. Softball fieldNo. 4 can be used for soccer.

YOUTH SPORTS SHORTS:For more information on Youth

Sports events, call 556-5242.

BASEBALL REGISTRATIONYouth Baseball registration ends

Friday. Practice takes place 5-8 p.m. theweek of May 24.

AMERICA’S KID RUNSAmericas Kid Runs is scheduled

for 10 a.m. Saturday at the FitnessCenter track.

PITCH, HIT, RUNPitch, Hit, Run is scheduled for 4

p.m. Saturday on the youth baseballfields.

NIGHT HOOPSNight Hoops takes place from 8-

10 p.m. on the second and fourthSaturday nights of each month in theR.P. Lee Youth Center gym.

Sports Shorts

Photo by Senior Airman Shawn ClementsLino Alvarez, a fitness trainer, lifts weights at the Fitness Center.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, May 13, 200418 Commentary

By Senior Master Sgt. Ty Foster21st Space Wing Public Affairs

It s 80 degrees outside a perfectday for a ride into the mountains. Youmake a few phone calls to a few of yourriding buddies and set up a rendezvousat a local drive-in restaurant.

As you roll up on your leather-cladbiker buds, you notice they re strappingtheir helmets down on their motorcy-cles. This is the first time you ve seenthem do this so you ask, What s up?

Colorado s a no-helmet law state,right? one friend says.

Well, yeah, but, you respond.And before you can straighten your fel-low military motorcycle riders out,they re on their bikes and in traffic ontheir way up the Rockies to take on thetwisties.

As you race to keep up, you won-der how you re going to approach yourfriends about how their risky behaviorviolates Air Force and Department ofDefense rules those same rules eachof us swore to uphold when we enteredthe Air Force.

Confrontation is never fun, butthat doesn t make it any less necessary.

Reality rears its ugly head as oneof your buddies, two bikes ahead ofyou, hits some pea-sized gravel as heenters a tight turn. His front tire wash-es out. The only thing between yourfriend s brain and the roadway is his

skull. The roadway wins. Micro-seconds tick by like hours

as you instinctively roll off of the throt-tle and apply both brakes. The rider infront of you isn t as fortunate. Hes tooclose to your crashing cohort. In theblink of an eye, he s launched airbornewhen his bike collides with the firstrider s sliding motorcycle.

A cloud of dust envelopes the sec-ond rider when he hits the ground hard.You re stopped now, right next to thefirst guy no ambulance required, he sdead.

Your second friend is alive. Youcan tell by his screaming.

Thirty minutes later, you watch asthe ambulance rolls off. You finish youraccount of the crash by signing the statetrooper s report.

It seems like a 1,000 questions arerunning through your mind. But, theone that crops up the most is Howcould this have been prevented?

Motorcycle crashes, or mishaps inAir Force lingo, happen.

There are those riders out therewho say, There are two kinds of riders.Those who ve been in a crash and thosewho are going to be in a crash. That snot far from the truth.

However, there are measures we,DoD riders, can take to mitigate theeffects of a crash or even reduce thelikelihood of one occurring.

One such measure Gen. John P.

Jumper, Air Force Chief of Staff, is par-ticularly keen on is a motorcyclist men-toring program.

In his Feb. 27 Chief s SightPicture entitled Motorcycle Safety:Each Rider A Mentor, General Jumperdescribes the program as one that willprovide motorcycle operators theopportunity to work together to maxi-mize their skills, reduce their chancesfor mishaps and have fun in theprocess.

The motorcycle mentorship pro-gram falls right in line with another AirForce initiative designed to reduce AirForce two-wheeled vehicle mishaps.

In his Sight Picture, GeneralJumper outlined, in broad strokes, anAir Force-wide network of motorcycleclubs to foster relationships betweenriders who have been riding in an areafor years and those new to the area ornew to riding.

Team Pete heeded GeneralJumper s call by forming The PikesPeak Freedom Riders, a private organi-zation of base riders.

We are motivated to reach out tothe younger or less experienced riders,said Master Sgt. Craig Dockum, clubpresident and first sergeant for the 21stServices Squadron.

The club is open to anyoneassigned to Peterson Air Force Base andCheyenne Mountain Air Force Station.

And while meetings include safety

briefings, discussions and training, rid-ing together is where the rubber meetsthe road for true mentoring.

During the rides, everyone willwear the protective equipment andclothing required by Air ForceInstruction 91-207 which includes: aDepartment of Transportation-approvedhelmet, goggles or face shield, long-sleeved shirt or jacket, full-fingeredgloves, pants, sturdy shoes or boots, andreflective materials at night.

but riding with them and pro-viding camaraderie will do the mostgood, Sergeant Dockum said. We pro-mote safety through the rides.

The next club meeting is at 2:30p.m. May 20 in the Enlisted Clublounge. Among the topics of discussionare: membership, first ride details andMotorcycle Safety Day on May 21.Meetings are slated to be held twice permonth.

For more information about theclub or how to be a motorcycle mentor,contact Sergeant Dockum at 556-7955or e-mail him at craig.dockum@peter-son.af.mil.

Remember, if you re a motorcyclerider who s in the military, wear a helmet and all of the other protective equip-

ment whether you re on or off base.And join the club, because, as Gen.Lance W. Lord, commander of Air ForceSpace Command, likes to say, Safety isan attitude get one!

Riders: Stay alive, join the club