21ST SPACE WING CHAIN OF COMMAND – PAGES 14-15 · 2005. 12. 8. · report suspicious activity. Call 556-4000 Force shaping a fact of life for Team Pete officers By Stefan Bocchino

Team Pete snow call procedures

Base recall procedures should be used to inform people of a delay or base closing.Tune in to local television or radio stations to find out if there are any reporting delays for

local installations.Call the Snow Call line at 556-SNOW (7669) for updated information on delays or closures.

Information will be updated no later than 5:30 a.m.

Delayed reporting is 9:30 a.m. and no earlier than 9 a.m. for ALL non-essentialpersonnel, regardless of their regular duty hour. This allows base civil engi-

neers the ability to clear roads and parking lots without obstructions.During phased early release, personnel should depart in 30-minute intervals, according to

their zip codes.At any time during inclement weather, use common sense in reporting. Even if there is no

delay, do not take chances. Safety is paramount.

21ST SPACE WING CHAIN OF COMMAND – PAGES 14-15

INSIDENews 1, 4, 6, 9, 13CC Corner 2Commentary 5Happenings 17-18Go Get Out 19

ReunionTeam Pete NCO reunites with officerwho helped save her life.

Page 3

Spreading Holiday SpiritPeterson Spouses Club solicits volun-teers for Operation Cookie Drop.

Page 7

Thursday, December 8, 2005 Vol. 49 No. 48

Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado

Remember to be vigilant -report suspicious activity.

Call 556-4000

Force shaping afact of life for Team

Pete officersBy Stefan Bocchino21st Space Wing Public Affairs

A briefing was held for all officers affected bythe current force-shaping initiatives, Dec. 2 in thebase auditorium here.

Brigadier Gen. Robert Worley, Air Force SpaceCommand director of plans and programs, was at thebriefing and addressed some of the concerns voicedby officers in attendance.

“I want officers affected by force shaping toknow that this is not a decision the Air Force takeslightly,” General Worley said. Their service is appre-ciated and valued. The fact of life is that we have toget the Air Force back in the right shape and keep itat the right size.”

The Air Force is currently over its congression-ally mandated end strength, said Capt. GregoryLetendre, 21st Mission Support Squadron MilitaryPersonnel Flight chief. Congress will no longer fundthe overages the Air Force has been carrying over thelast several years. The Air Force has studied howmany people are in various career fields and deter-mined what the balance should be between officersand enlisted to keep the career field properlymanned.

According to a recent Air Force press release,the Air Force is currently about 3,000 officers overstrength and 6,000 enlisted members under strength.

By Senior Airman Shawn Clements21st Space Wing Public Affairs

Two Team Pete members were married Nov. 25,but this wasn’t a normal wedding ceremony.

Staff sergeants Christopher Bowden andCourtney Reynolds, 21st Security Forces Squadron,were wed via video teleconference in the 21st SpaceWing Headquarters Building here. Sergeant Bowden isdeployed to Southwest Asia and due to change dutystations upon his return home. In order to stay togeth-er, they decided to partake in this unique ceremony.

“I had no idea we even had this capability untilmy first sergeant, Senior Master Sergeant BryanRainey, approached me with the idea,” SergeantReynolds said. “He asked me if we would like to tryto do it this way and we said ‘yes.’ Before I knew it,

the ceremony was all set up.”The fact the ceremony was conducted by VTC

was not the only reason it was unique. There had to bea stand-in for Sergeant Bowden. Hoyt Patterson, aclose personal friend, was asked to do the honors.

“Chris called and asked me to be the stand in forhis ceremony,” Mr. Patterson said. “I was a little sur-prised at first, but I was honored to do it.”

Although, some people might say it takes some-thing special away from the couple, Sergeant Reynoldsdisagrees.

“I feel this ceremony made it more romanticbecause you wanted it that much more,” SergeantReynolds said. “When we finally do see each other, it’sgoing to be amazing.”

The couple plans on having a formal weddingwhen Sergeant Bowden returns from deployment.

Airmen wed from home, abroad

See Force, Page 10

Photo by Stefan BocchinoBrigadier General Robert Worley, Air Force SpaceCommand director of plans and programs,addressed some of the concerns voiced by offi-cers in attendance at the Base Auditorium.

Photo by Roberta McDonald21st Space Wing Chaplain (Capt.) Jonathan Runnels and Staff Sgt. Courtney Reynolds, 21st SecurityForces Squadron, prepare for Sergeant Reynolds’ video teleconference wedding to Staff Sgt.Christopher Bowden. The ceremony was held Nov. 25 in the 21st SW Headquarters Building.

By Col. Jay G. Santee21st Space Wing commander

During my recent Commander’sCall, I discussed the 21st Space Wing’snew vision: Strength and Preparednessto Save the Nation. Although our mis-sion areas have not changed, we updat-ed our mission statement. “Conductworld class space-superiority opera-tions and provide unsurpassed installa-tion support and protection whiledeploying warrior Airmen.” Our newvision and updated mission statementsreflect the increasing threats our nationfaces today.

Ournation relieson our AirForce toincrease secu-rity based onthe capabilitiesand effectsfrom control-

ling andexploiting

space. As the nation’s First SpaceSuperiority Wing, the 21st Space Wingis at the forefront for controlling and

exploiting space.In line with the14th Air Force’s

priorities, the 21stSpace Wing’s priori-

ties will guide us insaving our nation:

14th Air Force Commander’sPriorities

Conduct world-class spaceoperations

Take care of our peopleMature space C2 relationshipsPrepare for future capabilities

21st Space Wing Commander’sPriorities

Conduct world-class space-superiority operations

Take care of our people –ensure they get what they’ve earned

Satisfy and protect ourselvesand our tenants with world-classsupport

Deploy warrior AirmenPrepare for future capabilities,

threats and opportunitiesMature space C2 relationships

In the upcoming weeks, I willaddress each priority insuring ourAirmen understand how these prioritiesare tied to our vision and mission state-ments, and the role they play in ourwing’s success. As the holiday seasonapproaches, each of us will continuallybe asked to bring our strengths to thefight; however, we must not forgetthose who love and support us. Taketime to be with your families in theupcoming weeks and thank them forthe support they give you each andevery day.

Dec. 7, 1941

The Japanese attack Pearl

Harbor.

Dec. 8, 1941

The United States declares war

on Japan.

Dec. 9, 1956

The 463rd Troop Carrier Wing

receives the Air Force's first C-

130 Hercules tactical cargo and

troop carrier. This four-engine

turboprop airlifter has an unre-

fueled range of more than

2,500 miles. It can take off and

land in about 3,600 feet.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, December 8, 20052

Published by Colorado Springs Military Newspapers Group, 31 E. Platte Avenue, Suite 300, Colorado Springs, 80903, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with the21st 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 endorsement by DoD, the Department of the Air Force, or CSMNG, of the products or services advertised. Everythingadvertised 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 ofthe 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, (719) 556-4351 or DSN 834-4351, fax (719) 556-7848 orDSN 834-7848. All photographs are Air Force photographs unless otherwise indicated.

The Space Observer is published every Thursday. For advertising inquiries, call Colorado Springs MilitaryNewspapers, (719) 634-5905. Employees of Peterson Air Force Base who want to place a free classifiedadvertisement should call 329-5236.

Articles for the Space Observer should be submitted to the 21st SW/PAI, Attn: Space Observer. For submissiondetails call the editor at (719) 556-4351 or DSN 834-4351 or e-mail [email protected]. Deadline for sub-mission is 4:30 p.m. the Thursday one week before publication. All articles, copy and announcements submitted willbe edited to conform to AFI Series 35 and the Associated Press Stylebook and Libel Manual.

21st Space WingCommander

Col. Jay G. Santee

Chief of Public AffairsCapt. Amy Sufak

Editorial StaffEditor

Airman 1st ClassMandy Weightman

Staff WriterStefan Bocchino2nd Lieutenant

Ben Meier

Layout and DesignJeff Adcox

FROM THE TOP

A Moment in Time

Col.Jay G. Santee

Commander alignswing vision

Leadership urges vigilance during holiday seasonBy Stefan Bocchino21st Space Wing Public Affairs

The Air Force Space Command command cen-ter sent a force-protection message to all commandswithin AFSPC to reiterate the extreme importance ofmaintaining vigilance against terrorist threats duringthe holiday season.

The message states servicemembers must havea strong force protection posture to ensure people,resources and facilities are safe from terrorist threats.The people of AFSPC should not let their guarddown because of holiday festivities. Terrorists shouldnot be afforded the opportunity to view U.S. installa-tions and people as soft targets.

“It is important that we remain continually vig-ilant as we enjoy this holiday season with our familyand friends,” said Col. Jay G. Santee, 21st SpaceWing commander. “Remember that those who wishto do us harm are never on a holiday.”

The best measure people can take is beingaware of their surroundings, said Maj. Paul Cairney,21st Security Forces Squadron commander. Peopleshould keep their eyes and ears open for any unusualevents and report them immediately to security

forces personnel.Personal security is also very important, Major

Cairney said. People need to be vigilant for anyunusual activity around them.

Traveling overseas poses its own hazards, the

major added. Before traveling, it’s a good idea andAir Force policy to get a threat briefing from eitherthe local Anti-Terrorist office or the Office of SpecialInvestigations. They can tell people exactly what the

Steps to reduce terrorist threats

No matter how well trained and vigilant, lawenforcement officials simply cannot be every-where.The eyes and ears of everyone on PetersonAir Force Base are critical weapons in the waragainst terrorism. Here are some steps you cantake in the war against terror. Be on the lookout for:

Surveillance: Someone recording or monitoringactivities, including the use of cameras, note tak-ing, drawing diagrams, writing on maps, or usingbinoculars or any other vision-enhancing device.

Elicitation: Anyone or any organization attempt-ing to gain information by mail, fax, telephone or inperson about military operations or people.

Tests of Security: Any attempts to measure reac-tion time to security breaches or to penetratephysical security barriers or procedures.

Acquiring supplies: Purchasing or stealingexplosives, weapons, ammunition, uniforms,decals, flight manuals, passes or badges, or anyother controlled items.

Suspicious people out of place: People whodon’t seem to belong in the workplace, neighbor-hood, business establishment or anywhere else.

Dry run: Putting people into position and movingthem about without actually committing a terroristact such as a kidnapping or bombing. An elementof this activity could also include mapping outroutes and determining the timing of traffic lightsand flow.

Deploying assets: People and supplies gettinginto position to commit the act. This is the lastopportunity to alert authorities before the terrorismoccurs.

(Information obtained from the U.S. Air ForceEagle Eyes pamphlet.)

See Vigilence, Page 4

FEATURESPACE OBSERVER

Thursday, December 8, 2005 3www.peterson.af.mil

Wounded Airman meets doctor on road to recoveryBy 1st Lt. Tracy Giles21st Space Wing Public Affairs

More than five months, 8,000miles and countless prayers later, areunion that almost didn’t happen tookplace Friday.

Technical Sgt. Jamie Dana andMaj. Paul Morton first met June 25 on ahot summer day in Kirkuk, Iraq, thatMajor Morton described as “chaotic”. Incontrast, the two met again Friday, on acold winter day at the Black ForestAnimal Sanctuary in Monument, Co., ina visit that was anything but.

Five months ago, Sergeant Dana,21st Security Forces Squadron dog han-dler here, was near the edge of death aftertaking the brunt of an improvised explo-sive device explosion directly underneathher Humvee seat during a convoy patrolnear Kirkuk Air Base, Iraq.

Major Morton, a 10th MedicalGroup emergency room physician at theU.S. Air Force Academy, was one mem-ber of the more than twenty-personKirkuk medical trauma team that helpedsave her life on that day.

Major Morton said SergeantDana’s lungs were severely injured andshe had massive internal bleeding,requiring 19 blood transfusions to keepher alive.

“Our entire team thought she wasgoing to die,” Major Morton said.

Sergeant Dana was lifted into aBlackhawk Helicopter and evacuated toBalad Air Base, Iraq, accompanied byMajor Morton and a team of medics.

“The helicopter ride was the scari-

est 45 minutes of my life and career,”Major Morton said. “Jamie almost diedmultiple times and I remember myselfvividly praying. I’m amazed to see heralive today.”

Major Morton and Sergeant Danahave been in touch via e-mail for the pastmonth, but this was the first time theyhad been able to meet in person. Uponseeing each other, the two embraced andMajor Morton said, “You look a lot bet-ter than the last time we met.”

For her part, Sergeant Dana does-n’t remember much from the first meet-ing other than a split second of confu-sion and asking to see her militaryworking dog, Rex.

During the helicopter flight, Major

Morton said his team of medics lost herpulse and then she came back.

“She had an inner strength andsomething deep inside of her to stayalive that was outside of this world,”he said.

Shortly after the attack, wordspread quickly back to her family,friends and coworkers here. A Web sitededicated to supporting Jamie Dana atwww.caringbridge.org was established,donations were given and prayers wereoffered on her behalf.

Today, that Web site has more than360 heartfelt messages of encourage-ment and support written to SergeantDana coming from family and militaryand civilian friends all over the world.

The support remained constantthroughout her critical days at LandstuhlRegional Medical Center, Germany,then into the painful months of recoveryand surgery at Walter Reed ArmyMedical Center, Md.; and her home-coming here.

“Jamie’s recovery was nothingshort of miraculous,” said Major PaulCairney, 21st SFS commander. “She isvery blessed to be alive.”

Sergeant Dana is by no meansfully recovered, but hopes remain highfor her continued improvement. Shewalks with a cane and is on daily med-ication for pain. Her life has been forev-er altered, but the lives of many havebeen inspired by her true fighting spirit.

Today, Sergeant Dana said she isdetermined to live life to the fullest,move forward, attend veterinary schooland pursue her dream of becoming aveterinarian. She also plans to continueto volunteer, as she did before theattack, and care for the Horses and ani-mals of the BFAS.

“I love working with animals,” shesaid. “They are a major part of my lifeand I don’t want to give it up.”

Despite all she has been through,she says, “I have no regrets. I wanted tobe a part of it and I would go back toIraq in a heart beat if I could.

“I want to support the troops andrecognize the men and women who areputting their lives on the line everydayand dying for our country,” she added.“And I want to thank my family, friendsand the Air Force who have all beenbehind me every step of the way.”

By T. Martina Porter21st Medical Dental Operations Squadron

It is easy to expect too much of the holidays.High expectations are fostered by the media, adver-tisements and songs. Our culture bombards us fromall directions with idealized images of the holidays.Children’s expectations start to rise with the arrival ofthe first holiday catalogs in September and the mag-nitude of those expectations become apparent withthe first wish-list. While children’s unrealistic expec-tations are obvious, it is important to realize thatadults, too, have expectations which are not realistic.

The holiday season can be a time of family love,harmony and togetherness. While this may be thecase for some families, the holidays can also be aperiod of increased family stress. The increase inpressure families experience during this time of yearis confirmed by research, finding an increase indomestic violence during the holiday season.

It seems that we encounter images of healthyand wealthy families baking cookies, trimming trees,

singing carols, opening gifts or sitting down to dinnereverywhere we turn during the holiday season. Webegin to feel our experiences should be like those ofthe “ideal” family. When our experiences do not liveup to the ideal, we may feel disappointed, upset orworse. This contributes to holiday stress.

Families also tend to experience stress whenundergoing change. During the holiday season, manyfamily routines are disrupted. Children are homefrom school. Grandparents and other relatives mayvisit or the family may travel to visit them. Manyspecial events and activities are planned. Adjusting tothese changes can produce stress. Developing realis-tic expectations is one way to avoid the problem.

One area in which people should developrealistic expectations is in the financial arena.Don’t fall for this culture’s materialistic messagethat expensive gifts are signs of love and caring.Remind yourself that it is possible for your familyto have memorable holiday experiences withoutspending a great deal of money. Discuss your finan-cial situation as a family and develop a holiday budg-et based on realistic expectations of what you canafford. Stick to that budget.

Christmas presents can take a giant toll on afamily’s resources. When the money does not last, theawareness of the financial shortcoming can causetremendous stress. The holiday season presents anopportunity for a family to see how it compares toneighbors and friends in terms of financial resources.A family with ongoing conflict may see this as asharp contrast to its own situation.

Family members can take a number of steps tocope with the stress associated with the holidays. Thefirst thing to do is trying to avoid what stress

researchers call stressor pile-up. Stressor pile-upoccurs when a family experiences a number of differ-ent events which disrupt family routines within a lim-ited period of time.

Families must have realistic expectations aboutthe amount of things they will have time to do, beforethey can avoid stressor pile-up. The average family islikely to receive numerous requests during the holi-day season. You may be asked to bake something forand help out at your child’s holiday party, to attend aparty at the boss’ house and to go caroling with alocal organization. These demands come on top ofyour plans to decorate the house, wrap the gifts, com-plete the cards, finish the shopping and carry out rou-tine tasks. Even with good time management, it issometimes impossible to get everything done without

Realistic expectations combat holiday stressors

See Stress, Page 7

Related Article: Caregivers playbig role during

holidays

Page 10

Photo by 1st Lt. Tracy GilesMajor Paul Morton, 10th Medical Group, and Tech. Sgt. Jamie Dana, 21stSecurity Forces Squadron, are reunited for the first time since Major Mortonwas part of a medical team that saved Sergeant Dana’s life after an impro-vised explosive device nearly took her life in Iraq.


NEWS

Chili cook-off nets moneyfor peacekeeper fund By Stefan Bocchino21st Space Wing Public Affairs

The 21st Security ForcesSquadron hosted the sixth annual ChiliCook-off in support of the RockyMountain Peacekeepers AssociationNov. 30.

The Peacekeepers, a 21st SFSassociation, donate money towardevents such as the security forcessquadron Christmas party, going-awaygifts, and flowers in the event of birthsor deaths, said Master Sgt. Todd Lokey,21st SFS NCO in charge of installationsecurity. “The cook-off was a success.There were 14 entries and it netted thePeacekeepers association $157, whichis the most money ever collected dur-ing our chili cook-off.”

The competition had four judges.They were Col. Jay G. Santee, 21stSpace Wing commander; Chief Master

Sgt. James Moody, 21st SW commandchief; Lt. Col. Christopher Wright,21st Mission Support Group deputycommander; and Chief Master Sgt.Jerry Barnett, 21st MSG commandchief.

“We appreciate the base’s sup-port,” Sergeant Lokey said. “It’s nicethat the base leadership can take timeout of their busy day to come andspend it with us.”

The judges tasted the entriesin the cook-off. They had to makethe tough decision on which entrywas the best. In the end, Staff Sgt.Liz Williams, 21st SFS CommanderSupport Staff information managementspecialist, won, and there were threeentries tied for second place.

‘I’m really happy,” SergeantWilliams said. “This was my first timemaking chili, but I must have donepretty well. Since I don’t eat chili, Iused my husband as a guinea pig. I’d

have him taste the chili and tell me if itwas good or if it needed some otheringredient added to it.”

Many organizations holdfundraisers during the holiday seasonto help defray costs from holiday par-

ties as well as gathering money forevents throughout the year. Theseevents intend to help improve moraleand draw units closer together. It isimportant for people to support theseevents within their organizations.

Photos by Stefan BocchinoMaster Sgt. Todd Lokey, 21st Security Forces Squadron NCO in charge ofinstallation security, gets some chili for the judges. Inset: One of the 14entries to the 21st SFS Chili cook-off.

threats are in the area they are traveling. For TeamPete members, both of these offices are located inBuilding 350.

“Blending in is probably the best thing you cando to defend yourself while traveling overseas,”Major Cairney said. “If you make yourself stand out

by wearing obviously-American things, you’re goingto make yourself a target. If you can blend in at all,that’s what you want to do.”

Terrorism is most dangerous when people lettheir guard down, he said. Terrorists have a history ofattacking when it’s least expected.

“Terrorism is a fact of life, even here in

Colorado Springs,” Major Cairney said. “What itreally comes down to is that we as security forcesneed everyone’s help. Every Airman is a sentry and asensor. We rely on people being aware of their sur-roundings and contacting us if anything unusual hap-pens. If people do that, then we can keep this baseand the people on it safe.”

Vigilence, from Page 2

COMMENTARYSPACE OBSERVER

Thursday, December 8, 2005 5www.peterson.af.mil

By Senior Master Sgt.Linwood Murphy21st Military Operations Flight

I vaguely remember reporting tomy first duty station back in the early‘80s, but I can say I was deathly afraidof anyone with rank. It didn’t matter ifthey were an E-2 or an O-6. The onething that was certain in my mind wasthey knew more than I did, so theydeserved respect.

Customs and courtesies are a setof simple rules, some written and somenot. Nonetheless, the reason we havethem is as simple as the rules them-selves. Customs and courtesies servetwo primary purposes: first, they main-tain order and second, they help estab-lish group identity.

I recently visited Sheppard AirForce Base, Texas; for two weeks. I wasimpressed with the caliber and attitudeof the young Airmen in training. Theywere extremely courteous and wellmannered, in stark contrast to what I’vewitnessed in the Air Force over the past10 years.

A common misconception is thatthe problem starts in basic training ortechnical school. In my experience, itstarts with first-line supervisors. Ibelieve shrinking troop numbers andthe outsourcing of military jobs acrossthe Department of Defense, is whysome of our customs and traditionshave started to disappear. So, I beganasking myself some questions. Why are

Airmen ignoring the rules that make usunique? What is happening to our cus-toms and courtesies and what roles canNCOs play in preserving them?

No one ever directly spoke to meabout customs and courtesies aftertechnical school because they were part

of the culture. They were firmlyingrained in each individual. To ignorea salute was simply unacceptable.Today’s combat mix of military, civil-ian and contracted employees sets thetone and creates an environment wherepeople can ignore rules. Ignoring cus-

toms and courtesies is a bad habit justlike smoking, using drugs or procrasti-nating.

We all have a few bad habits we’dlike to change, but we should notchoose to change bad habits justbecause it displeases someone else.Airmen must believe in our system ofrules and their intended purposesbefore deciding to follow them. Whenthey succeed, others will eventuallyrecognize their behavior and becomecommitted to change as well. We mustmake it our business to know our cus-toms and courtesies and politely cor-rect violators respectfully and whenappropriate, even if it is an O-10.

The bottom line is we’re a part ofthe military, which means order, disci-pline and structure.

If we plan on maintaining ourmilitary courtesies and our distinctiveAir Force traditions, we should startnow.

Here is an example of a typicalgreeting and introduction that I‘ve seenlately. “Hello. Welcome to CrashfreeAir Force Base. I am Sergeant BruceGoodflight, your new rater, but you cancall me Bruce.”

Bruce just violated one of ourwritten courtesies without realizing it.Rest assured his troop will pass onwhat he has learned to others.Referring to seniors by their first nameis a huge foul and must be avoided.Here’s another example: Don’t worry

Don’t forget the basics Being cordial is one thing but don’t abandon the

profession of arms Always check your military bearing Don’t send the wrong message to brand new troops or

long-term Airmen Pay close attention to what’s going on around you Always remember Air Force guidance Failing to know and understand the reasoning behind our

customs and courtesies is the leading cause of violations

How do wekeep our

courtesies

alive?

How do wekeep our

courtesies

alive?

Senior NCO sees customs, courtesies slipping away

See Courtesies, Page 8

Courtesy photo


NEWS

DOD announces implementation of traumatic injury protectionWASHINGTON – The Depart-

ment of Defense announced Nov. 30the implementation of traumatic injuryprotection insurance under theServicemembers’ Group Life Insuranceprogram as enacted by section 1032 ofPublic Law 109-13.

The program, which will be knownas TSGLI, is designed to provide finan-cial assistance to servicemembers dur-ing their recovery period from a serioustraumatic injury.

All members eligible for SGLIbecame insured for traumatic injuryprotection of up to $100,000 Dec. 1,

unless they declined SGLI coverage. A flat monthly premium of $1 was

added to the monthly SGLI deduction,regardless of the amount of SGLI cover-age the member has elected.

TSGLI is not disability compen-sation and has no effect on entitlementfor compensation and pension benefits

provided by the Department ofVeterans Affairs or disability benefitsprovided by DOD. It is an insuranceproduct similar to commercial dismem-berment policies.

TSGLI provides money for a lossdue to a specific traumatic event whiledisability compensation is intendedto provide ongoing financial supportto make up for the loss in income-earn-ing potential due to service-connectedinjuries.

The retroactive provision of PL109-13 provides that any servicemem-ber who suffered a qualifying loss

between Oct. 7, 2001, and Dec. 1, willreceive a benefit under the TSGLI pro-gram if the loss was a direct result ofinjuries incurred in Operation EnduringFreedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The DOD developed this programin close coordination with theDepartment of Veterans Affairs. TheOffice of the Under Secretary ofDefense for Personnel and Readinesswill monitor implementation with theservices and make necessary adjust-ments if required.

(Information courtesy of Air ForcePrint News)

Servicemember reports vandalismto private property

Security forces responded to a call concerningdamage to a servicemember’s vehicle while it wasparked in the child development center parking lot.The complaintant said she noticed her vehicle hada scratch approximately 7 feet long on both the dri-ver’s and passenger’s sides. The damage was estimat-ed at $2,500. Keep in mind vandalism of privateproperty is punishable under the Uniform Code ofMilitary Justice.

Servicemembers receive DUI off-baseColorado Springs Police Department released

three Peterson servicemembers to security forces.They were arrested for involvement in a DrivingUnder the Influence charge and a motor vehicle acci-dent off base. Two of the three individuals were trans-ported to security forces command center here. Thedriver was placed in a holding cell for allegedly beingbelligerent and violent. Security forces members areinvestigating the incident.

Minor accident occurs at the BXTwo vehicles collided at the Base Exchange

when one vehicle backed into another. There was nodamage to one vehicle. The other vehicle had a bas-ketball-size dent on the right, rear passenger’s side.Security forces members took photographs and filed areport of the accident.

Caterpillar rolls over on Pete Eastrunning trail

A yellow front-end loader rolled over when theoperator was conducting maintenance on the runningtrail in Peterson East. The operator said that the cater-pillar became off-balanced before the front right tirelifted off the ground and the whole machine rolled onits side. Damages consisted of two broken windowsand multiple fluid leaks. The caterpillar was towed to amaintenance building. There were no injuries reported.

Eagle eyes keep Peterson safeA security forces member noticed a person

attempting to gain access to Peterson with a fake iden-tification card. The officer confiscated the suspect’s IDcard. The suspect fled the gate through the outboundlane, exiting the installation. Every servicemember atPeterson is responsible for base security.

For information, servicemem-bers should contact Thomas

Perry at (210) 565-3310 or2410 or thomas.perry@ran-

dolph.af.mil.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, December 8, 2005 7

www.peterson.af.mil NEWS

Peterson spouses spread holiday cheerBy Airman 1st Class Mandy Weightman21st Space Wing Public Affairs

The Peterson Spouses Club will bring the holidayspirit to dormitory residents here through OperationCookie Drop Monday and Tuesday.

Operation Cookie Drop, also known as Cookiesfor Troops, is an annual event where the club solicitsvolunteers to bake, bag and give a dozen cookies toeach dormitory resident.

“The idea of providing home-baked goods duringthe holidays to the Airmen is an Air Force-wide tradi-tion,” said Amy Wren, publicity chairperson for thePeterson Spouses Club. “Due to the mobility of themilitary, spouses have brought this tradition to differ-ent bases as they move through the various spouses’clubs throughout the world.”

Mrs. Wren added that the project wouldn’t hap-

pen each year without the numerous volunteers whobake and bag the cookies. “We are looking for bakersto contribute cookies, preferably four dozen each. Thecookies are being collected at the Base ChapelMonday and Tuesday,” she said.

In ensuring each Airman living in the dormitorieson Peterson receives cookies, Michelle Golley, projectchairperson, said the cookie collection averages morethan 600 dozen each year.

“This is a long-standing tradition we continuehere at Peterson to give the Airmen a small taste ofhome when they are miles away from loved ones,”Mrs. Golley said. “This year, we need about 500-dozencookies.”

Dormitory managers will pick up the baggedcookies and distribute them to the residents Tuesdayafter the bagging is complete.

“We sincerely appreciate the assistance of the

base community in helping us spread a little holidaycheer to the men and women who work so hard for usyear-round,” Mrs. Wren said.

In addition to baking the cookies, the club alsoneeds volunteers to bag the cookies beginning at 7p.m. Monday, and people to donate small wrappedcandy to accompany the cookies.

For information or to volunteer for OperationCookie Drop, e-mail bygolley1@aolcom.

This is a long-standing tradi-tion we continue here at

Peterson to give the Airmen a smalltaste of home when they are milesaway from loved ones. This year, weneed about 500-dozen cookies.

– Operation Cookie Drop chairperson,Michelle Golley”

“

becoming tense, exhausted and irrita-ble.

Having realistic expectationsabout what both you and other familymembers have time to accomplish canmake all the difference. Say no to somerequests. Don’t allow yourself to feelthat relatives will think less of you ifyou let the store wrap their gifts insteadof you. Cookies don’t have to be home-made. Don’t push yourselves until youare all too exhausted and the only thingyou feel when the holidays are over isrelief.

If your family is going to a child’s

holiday program on Saturday morningand the grandparents are scheduled toarrive from Florida on Sunday, thinktwice before inviting the families of co-workers to your home for dinnerSaturday night. While it might be nice tosee the people during the holidays, bothyou and your friends may enjoy anevening together more in January wheneveryone’s schedules are less hectic.

Research has found that familieswith interchangeable roles in regards tochild-care, homemaking and manyother activities are best equipped tocope with stress. When events are hec-tic and the baby needs to be changed ordinner needs to go in the oven, whoev-

er is available should perform the tasksregardless of traditional expectations.

While the media family is allsmiles during the holidays, don’t expectall of your time with family to be full oflove and harmony. Family problems donot magically go away. If your brother-in-law and brother have never gottenalong, it isn’t realistic to expect theirrelationship to suddenly change whenthey arrive for a holiday dinner. If yourdaughter is 2 years old, it isn’t realisticto expect that she will not act her ageduring the family photograph.

Real people and real families arenot perfect. Don’t expect them to be.There may be a few rough spots, but

you can still come out of the holidayswith some precious family experiences.

Finally, don’t expect everything tocome off as planned. A child may devel-op the flu on Christmas Eve, the elec-tricity may go off in the middle of yourholiday dinner or a storm may preventrelatives from visiting. Such unexpectedevents are not part of the ideal holiday,but they are likely to occur. Don’t letthem ruin the holidays. Be adaptableand flexible. Everybody can pitch in tomake the most of the situation.

Being realistic about the holidays isnot being cynical. It is a way to avoidunnecessary disappointment and stress. Afamily is more likely to enjoy the holidays

Stress, from Page 3


NEWS

about people not directly in your chainof command. It may be hard to believe,but this is a common belief amongstnewer Airmen.

As Airmen, we should compre-hend and practice our customs and

courtesies daily, not merely when it’sconvenient. The previous scenariosmust not be allowed to continue. If wedon’t ignore the rules, neither will thepeople in our inner circles. We all mustlead by example.

It is the collective responsibility

of all servicemembers to adhere to andpreserve our way of life. We owe thatmuch to the Airmen who came beforeus. We must be vigilant and proactivein preserving our military customs andcourtesies. Don’t accept the status quo.We are all professionals and must do

our part to put people on the spot whenthey ignore our rules. If we understandthe rules and their functions, theymight not continue to slip and slideaway. For information on Air Forcecustoms and courtesies, referenceAFPA 36-224IVI, Chapter 7.

Courtesies, from Page 5

Wing holiday party heats upColorado with tropical funBy Capt. Kara Gormont21st Medical Support Squadron

The 21st Space Wing dug out their floral-printshirts, grass skirts and coconut bras for the beach-style holiday party Friday at the Enlisted Club here.The festivities included a hula-hoop contest featuringCol. Jay G. Santee, 21st SW commander; Col.Douglas Hine, 21st Mission Support Group com-mander; Col. Mark Allen, 21st Medical Group com-mander; Capt. Warren Brainard, 721st SecurityForces Squadron commander; and Chief Master Sgt.Tim Omdal, 21st SFS. They demonstrated their skillswith the Pacific Pride and Island Hearts Polynesiandancers and provided entertainment for the audience.

Other events of the evening included a scav-enger hunt and a limbo contest. The 21st SecurityForces stole the thunder in this year’s contests with

Senior Airman Nnamdi Anyaeji winning the hulahoop contest and Senior Master Sgt. Bryan Raineywinning the limbo contest. The 721st MissionSupport Group commander, Col. Joyce Jenkins-Harden, had tough competition from Col. LizAnderson, 21st SW Individual MobilizationAugmentee to the commander, in the scavenger hunt,but ultimately won the event when she was the firstto find a flamingo and return to the stage.

Each attendee benefited from the leadership ofStaff Sgt. Michael Trent, 21st Civil EngineerSquadron fire fighter, chairman for the gifts andprizes committee. Through his efforts, each attendeeleft the event with at least one gift to rememberthe evening.

In addition, there was a silent auction that raisedalmost $400 to support disaster relief efforts forHurricane Katrina at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss.

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Denise JohnsonColonel Mark Allen, 21st Medical Group com-mander, performs along side the Pacific Prideand Island Hearts Polynesian dancers during the21st Space Wing Holiday Party Friday.


www.peterson.af.mil NEWS BRIEFSOperation Cookie Drop kicks off

The Peterson Spouses’ Club is heading upOperation Cookie Drop, a project aimed at spreadingholiday joy by delivering cookies to dormitory resi-dents, here. The club needs bakers to provide cookiesMonday and Tuesday at the Base Chapel. Volunteerswill begin bagging at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Chapel.The goal is to provide a dozen home-baked cookies toeach Airman. This equates to more than 500 dozencookies. For information or to volunteer, e-mail [email protected].

Family Support Center invites familiesfor holiday hugs

The Peterson Family Support Center is hosting aHoliday Hugs event from 6 to 10 p.m. Dec. 19 through23 and Dec. 26 through 30 in the FSC, located inBuilding 350, Room 1016. The event is set up to allowfamilies more communication with their deployedsponsors. These family members will be able to utilize

a phone bank to speak to their deployed loved oneswith no limitation on number or length of calls. TheFSC is also recruiting volunteers to assist the deployedmembers and their families during the holidays. Forinformation, call Nona Daugherty at 556-7832 or e-mail [email protected].

Peterson NCOA announces diploma,award ceremony

The Peterson NCO Academy will host theDiploma and Awards Ceremony for Class 06-1 from10:30 to 11:45 a.m. Dec. 15 in the base Auditorium.The dress is uniform of the day. For information, callStaff Sgt. Angelica Ramirez at 556-8143.

Spouses’ club offers discounted feesThe Peterson Spouses Club is offering half-price

membership dues to spouses of deployed servicemem-bers for the month of December. For information or tojoin the club, call Eve Wegler at 596-5986 or visitwww.petersonspousesclub.com.

Servicing post office changes locationThe servicing post office for Peterson Air Force

Base residents changed Nov. 19 from the post officelocated on Galley Road to the post office at Academyand Fountain boulevards. Base residents should usethis location for mail stops, starts, holds and addresschanges. Holiday packages and other mail may still bemailed from any post office location.

Statement change affects GPC holders In an effort to move all Department of Defense

members to a common Government Purchase Cardcycle date, the Air Force changed the statement-cycledates from the 25th of each month to the 19th of themonth in November. This change affects all GPCaccounts Air-Force wide. The cycle for November wasNov. 18 since Nov. 19 fell on a Saturday. For informa-tion, visit www.halfway.peterson.af.mil/21cons/LGCP/card.asp or contact the 21st Contracting SquadronGPC manager, Patrick Moore, at 556-4925.

Wiinntterr DDrr ii v iinngg SSemmiinnarrWiinntterr DDrr ii v iinngg SSemmiinnarrLearn good winter driving tactics and techniques

The seminar is presented by the Automotive Skills Center with MasterDrive instructing the valuable information.

When: Tuesday, Dec. 13Where: The Base AuditoriumWho: Servicemembers and their dependantsTime: 6 p.m.

ReserReservvations are necessarations are necessaryy..

For infFor information or reserormation or reservvations,ations,

call 556-4481call 556-4481

AROUND PETESPACE OBSERVERThursday, December 8, 200510

Caregivers play big role during holidays By T. Martina Porter21st Medical Dental Operations Squadron

Holidays are a stressful time for most families.However, they may be more troubling for childrenin single-parent and step-family homes.

Holiday traditions can cause children to remem-ber times when mom and dad were together. Newfamily arrangements may require children to cel-ebrate at several homes. Here are some ways tohelp children in these families cope with the spe-cial stress of the season.

Be aware of different types of families asyou talk about holiday plans and make giftsand decorations.

Encourage all children to share theirplans and make items for all members oftheir families.

Be careful not to discuss a child’s familysituation in a way that could embarrass himor her.

Continue to enforce rules and limits.During times of stress, children need a stableand predictable world. Although some childrenmay misbehave more when under stress, dis-covering that the rules have not changed com-forts them. This helps them see the child caresetting as a safe and stable base in the midstof change.

Listen carefully to the child’s concerns.You don’t need all the right answers. Mostly,children need someone who listens and caresabout what they say. If children seem upset,encourage them to express their feelings.

If a child is moody, preoccupied, or disrup-tive describe their actions to the parents. Askwhether they know of anything at home thatmay be troubling the child.

Give children some time to unwind afterthe holidays. Be careful in assuming that afamily situation is the sole reason behind achild’s behavior. Holidays create stress for allfamilies.

Be realistic about what you can andcannot do. Remember that there are manyaspects of the child’s life over which you havelittle control. You may hear stories from chil-dren about conflicts between parents or com-petition for children’s loyalty that you thinkare unhealthy for children. In most cases,there is not much you can do to change theparents’ behavior.

Work to create a stable and safe environ-ment for the children you care for. This willhelp them cope more easily with stress.

Report children’s concerns to their parentsor encourage the children to talk with theirparents about their feelings.

Let parents know about school orcommunity resources for single parentsand stepfamilies.

Be sensitive to the needs of children andparents. You can help families deal effectivelywith the joys and stresses of the holidays.

The force shaping board is an effort to correct thisimbalance.

The board will look at line officers commis-sioned in 2002 or 2003, Captain Letendre said. Theboard will affect 3,830 Air Force officers including77 stationed at Peterson Air Force Base. A total of1,715 officers throughout the Air Force will leave theservice through voluntary means or through the forceshaping board held in April.

“There are limited opportunities to cross traininto other fields,” Captain Letendre said. “There arealso opportunities for officers to go to other compo-nents of the total force such as Air National Guard,Reserve or Civil Service. There is also an opportuni-ty to join the Army.”

There are many options available to officersaffected by force shaping, General Worley said. Thisprocess is designed to keep them as informed as pos-sible while they consider their options. The chain ofcommand is an important resource to help them con-sider their options. Another important resource is theFamily Support Center, which has programs that helppeople prepare for life after the military.

“We are encouraging the leadership to talk totheir vulnerable officers soon,” General Worley said.“We expect them to talk to them about their optionsand where they rack and stack.”

People will have until March 1, to use the vol-untary programs, Captain Letendre said. After thateveryone affected will go in front of the board thatconvenes in April. Those who are selected for sepa-ration will have until Sept. 29.

For information about force shaping, contact thebase MPF at 556-9221 or go to the force shaping Website www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/retsep/shape.htm.

Force, from Page 1


www.peterson.af.mil CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Native Americans in UniformAnswers on Page 12

ACROSS1. Liberty ___5. Layman9. Native American MoH recipi-ent Capt. Raymond ____ (Korea)11. Sail material13. Angst14. Try

16. Popeye’s gal Olive17. ___ Arbor, M.I.19. American Architect I.M. __20. Grant’s opponent21. Native American MoH recipi-ent Lt Van T. ___ (WWII)25. Prohibit26. Langley AFB time zone

27. Without offenses28. Before, poetically29. God of War30. Elastic32. ___-fi genre34. Ancient35. Swarm39. Egyptian river42. ___-lai43. Perform again45. Native American MoH recipi-ent Cpl Mitchell __ Cloud, Jr.(Korea)48. Engine need49. Develops50. Biblical first woman51. &52. Letters on food packaging;vitamins %53. Football great Marino54. Desiring58. Lingo62. Half-asleep63. Pacific, Atlantic and Indian64. Pack away65. Record

DOWN1. Dance type2. Important time3. 56, to Julius Caesar4. Mil. pay statement5. Long. opposite6. Picnic pest7. ___ Got a Secret8. U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse____; Korean War veteran9. Native American Ira __; flagraising participant on 56 DOWN10. Desires11. Native American boats, once

12. Impaled13. Spy15. Wear out18. Brett Favre’s org.21. Scout’s org.22. Plane or bag lead-in23. Stillwater, Okla. school24. Kitchen meas.29. Russian space station31. American writer Edgar Allen___32. Tarnished33. Native American MoH recipi-ent Lt. Ernest ___ (WWII)36. Mining goal37. West. state38. Native American MoH recipi-ent PFC Charles ____ (Korea)39. Code Talker tribe of WWII 40. Frozen water41. O-1s or O-2s42. ___ or Arc44. European country (ISO coun-try code)45. Construct again46. Native American MoH recipi-ent CDR Ernest E. ___ (WWII)47. Lairs55. Speck56. ___ Jima, site of 9 DOWN’sfamous flag raising57. Australian prov.59. Perform60. Actor Stephen61. Breach(Courtesy of Alaskan CommandPublic Affairs)

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, December 8, 200512 FEATURE

Off-duty interests, hobbies: Xterra 4x4 offroad club, camping and reading.Why did you join the Air Force? I wanted toget my education and feel like I was making adifference at the same time.What inspires you to do what you do? Myfamily. They have always stood behind me andsupported me 100 percent in everything I have

done. Seeing them proud of my accomplish-ments inspires me more than anything.Favorite part of your job? Dealing with alltypes of people on a daily basis, face-to-face.What goals have you set? I am workingtoward a Criminal Justice degree with anemphasis in probation/parole (Once I get myCCAF degree done of course).

PPeak Peak Performererformer

Courtesy photoAirman 1st Class Stormy Gallagher, 21st OperationsSupport Squadron client support administrator takes abreak while fixing a computer tower.

Name: Airman 1st Class Stormy Cassandra GallagherOrganization: 21st Operations Support Squadron

Duty title: Client Support AdministratorTime in service: Three years

Hometown: Grass Range, Mont.

Answers from Page 11Team Pete congratulates the following squadrons

on their recent awards:

The 20th Space Control Squadron, located at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., wasawarded the Chief Master Sergeant Robert G. V. Pecqueur Award, recognizing

them as the best space control squadron under operational Air Force SpaceCommand control.

The 13th Space Warning Squadron, located at Clear Air Force Station, Alaska,was awarded the Major General “Tim” C. Padden Award, recognizing their

installation excellence through the construction and maintenance of first-classfacilities for their people to work, live and play.


www.peterson.af.mil NEWS

Activity

Aragon DiningFacility

- Breakfast- Lunch- Dinner/Supper

Fitness CenterLibrary

Aero Club*Enlisted Club**

Bowling CenterGolf Course***Officers Club**

-Bldg. 1470Annex

-Bldg. 1 Annex-Bldg. 2 Annex

Aquatics CenterAuto Skills CenterCommunityActivities CenterLeisure TravelOutdoorRecreation

Child DevelopmentCentersFamily Child CareOfficeYouth Center

Financial Mgmt.Flight

Dec. 23AFSPC Family

Day

5:30 - 8 a.m.11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

4:30 - 7 p.m.

7 a.m. - 6 p.m.10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Closed11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

11 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.No Change

Close at 2 p.m.Closed

ClosedClosed

Close at 1 p.m.9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.Closed

Close at 1 p.m.

Close at 1 p.m.

ClosedClose at 1 p.m.

Closed

Dec. 24Christmas Eve

5:30 - 8 a.m.11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

3:30 - 7 p.m.

7 a.m. - 6 p.m.9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

ClosedClosed

11 a.m. - 2 p.m.Close at 1 p.m.

ClosedClosed

ClosedClosed


ClosedClosed

8:30 a.m. -1:30p.m.

Closed

ClosedClosed

Closed

Christmas

6 a.m. - 1 p.m.

4:30 - 6 p.m.

7 a.m. - 2 p.m.Closed

ClosedClosed

ClosedClosedClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

Closed

Closed

ClosedClosed

Closed

Dec. 26 Federal Holiday

6 a.m. - 1 p.m.

4:30 - 6 p.m.


Closed

ClosedClosedClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

Closed

Closed

ClosedClosed

Closed

Dec. 30AFSPC Family

Day

5:30 - 8 a.m.11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

4:30 - 7 p.m.

7 a.m. - 6 p.m.10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

ClosedClosed

11 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.No Change

ClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

Close at 1 p.m.9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.Closed

Close at 1 p.m.

Close at 1 p.m.


Closed

New Year's Eve

5:30 - 8 a.m.11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

4:30 - 7 p.m.

7 a.m. - 6 p.m.9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

ClosedClosed

5 p.m. - 2 a.m.Close at 1 p.m.Open at 6 p.m.

Closed

ClosedClosed



8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Closed

ClosedClosed

Closed

New Year'sDay

6 a.m. - 1 p.m.

4:30 - 6 p.m.


ClosedClosed

2 p.m. - 9 p.m.ClosedClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

Closed

Closed

ClosedClosed

Closed

Jan. 2 FederalHoliday

6 a.m. - 1 p.m.

4:30 - 6 p.m.


ClosedClosed

11 a.m. - 9 p.m.ClosedClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

ClosedClosed

Closed

Closed

ClosedClosed

Closed

* Aero Club requests closure of facility Dec. 23 through Jan. 3; flying by members can continue at anytime--weather permitting. ** Enlisted Club and Officers Club requests closure of facilities Dec. 24 through Jan. 2.*** Weather permitting, even if pro shop is closed, golf course will be open for walk-ons.

Holiday hours for 21st Space Wing Services Squadron activities

21st Space Wing CommanderCol. Jay G. Santee

21st SW Inspector GeneralCol. Edward G. Knowles

ProtocolMr. Kenneth J. Friesz

Civilian Equal Employment Opportunity

Ms. Hazel O. Lowe

21st Antiterrorsim / ForceProtection

21st Comptroller SquadronLt. Col. Joseph L. Baca

Sexual Assault ResponseCoordinator

Ms. Jeanine A. Arnold

ChaplainLt. Col. Michael S. Tinnon

HistorianDr. David L. Bullock

Judge AdvocateLt. Col. Polly S. Kenny

Military Equal OpportunityCapt. Gregory M. Letendre

MuseumMs. Gail L. Whalen

Public AffairsCapt. Amy I. Sufak

SafetyLt. Col. Daniel A. Dant

Plans and ProgramsMs. Nancy B. Bishop

Command PostLt. Col. Martin N. Reff

Total ForceLt. Col. Charles G. Strong

21st Operations Group Commander

Col. Donald W. McGee Jr.

21st Maintenance GroupCommander

Col. Lyman A. Faith

21st Mission SupportGroup CommanderCol. Douglas J. Hine

21st Medical GroupCommander

Col. Mark L. Allen

721st Mission Support Group Commander

Cheyenne MountainAir Force Station, Colo.

Col. Joyce R.Jenkins-Harden

821st Air Base GroupCommander

Thule Air Base, GreenlandCol. David J. Buck

Detachment 1 21st Operations Group

Socorro, N.M.Capt. Charles M. Holland


Diego Garcia,British Indian Ocean Territories

Maj. Jack D. Fulmer


Maui, HawaiiCapt. David T. Isue

21st Operations SupportSquadron

Lt. Col. Randolph A. Pagan

6th Space Warning Squadron Cape Cod AFS, Mass.

Lt. Col. Paul S. Hamilton

7th Space Warning SquadronBeale AFB, Calif.

Lt. Col. G. Russell Pulliam

10th Space Warning SquadronCavalier AFS, N.D.

Lt. Col. Ling Yung

12th Space Warning SquadronThule AB, Greenland

Lt. Col. Scott D. Peel

4th Space Control SquadronHolloman AFB, N.M.

Lt. Col. Fred W. Gaudlip

76th Space Control SquadronLt. Col. Jim E. Jennings

21st SpaceCommunications

SquadronLt. Col. Thomas J. Hains

21st MaintenanceOperations Flight

Maj. Jeffrey N. Pruitt

21st Civil EngineerSquadron

Lt. Col. Terry Watkins

21st Mission SupportSquadron

Maj. Isaac Davidson

21st Services SquadronMaj. Jessica A. MacDonald

21st Security ForcesSquadron

Maj. Paul D. Cairney

21st Logistics ReadinessSquadron

Lt. Col. Kevin H. Doyle

721st Security ForcesSquadron

Cheyenne Mountain AFS, Colo.Capt. Warren B. Brainard

821st SupportSquadron

Thule AB, GreenlandMaj. Steven N.

LaCasse

821st SecurityForces SquadronThule AB, Greenland

Capt. Brint A.Woodruff

21st Aerospace MedicineSquadron

Lt. Col. Charles R.Carlton

21st Medical OperationsSquadron

Lt. Col. Michelle D. Adams

21st ContractingSquadron

Maj. Robert S. Widmann

Detachment 1Copenhagen, Denmark

Lt. Col. Mark Truumees

21st SW Command ChiefChief Master Sgt. James E. Moody


Moron Air Base, SpainCapt. Roberto R. Colon

13th Space Warning SquadronClear AFS, Alaska

Lt. Col. Robert S. Graves

USAF Liaison Officer, 21stOperations Group

Royal Air Force Fylingdales,United Kingdom

Maj. Darold W. Hubbard

20th Space Control SquadronEglin AFB, Fla.

Lt. Col. James J. Hogan

721st CommunicationsSquadron

Cheyenne Mountain AFS, Colo.Lt. Col. Janice R. Johnson

21st Dental SquadronCol. Paul N. Cardon

21st Medical SupportSquadron

Lt. Col. Mark S. White

21st SW Director of StaffMr. Alvin B. Strait

21st SW IMA to the Wing CommanderCol. Elizabeth Z. Anderson

Current as of Dec. 8, 2005

2211sstt SSppaaccee WWiinngg CCoommmmaanndd SSttrruuccttuurree2211sstt SSppaaccee WWiinngg CCoommmmaanndd SSttrruuccttuurree

21st SW Vice-CommanderCol. Stephen M. Tanous

Small BusinessMr. Reggie E. Selby

Story and photos by Nel LampeMountaineer staff

he 3rd Cavalry Regiment has aproud history portrayed in the3rd Cavalry Museum at FortCarson. The museum is in the“Banana Belt” area – the yellow

brick buildings on the way to Gate 20. The unit’s history is traced to a

regiment of mounted riflemen author-ized by Congress in 1846. This was anew type of unit for the U.S. Army; aregiment of riflemen on horseback.The mounted Soldiers would havelonger range, using rifles, than

infantry Soldiers using muskets.About a year after its beginning,

the mounted riflemen proved theirworth as they participated in the 1847Mexican War. The mounted riflemenparticipated in six campaigns, servingwith distinction.

The unit’s commanding general,Gen. Winfield Scott, paid high tribute tothe mounted riflemen while they servedsouthern Mexico.

“Veterans, you have been bathed infire and blood and come out steel – youare ‘Brave Rifles,’” said General Scott.

The 3rd Armored CavalryRegiment, now serving its second tour

of duty in Operation IraqiFreedom, has evolved fromthe original mounted riflemenregiment. The regiment is stillknown as the Brave Rifles.

The history of theBrave Rifles is shown in themuseum. Seventy-onecolonels have led the regi-mant since its inception. Thehistoric timeline of the unitis shown in the main exhibitat the museum.

Visitors are greeted by a“model” member of the regi-ment, Timothy Cummings,portrayed at JeffersonBarracks, Mo., the regiment’sfirst station. The history istracked through the exhibitwith photos of the regiment’scolonels and a timeline ofreal-world events, allowing

Places to see in thePikes Peak area.

Visitors to the museum are greeted by“Timothy Cummings” a “member” of the reg-iment at Jefferson Barracks, Mo.

An exhibit portrays the early days of the 3rdCavalry riflemen swords.

Left to right: Paul Martin and Scott Hamrickadjust a saddle in the museum.

TracesBraverifles’hisTory

3rd Cavalry Museum ...

T

See Cavalry, Page 18Artifacts in the museum include this sketch-book made of brown-paper shopping bags.

visitors to relate regiment events to historic events.Visitors may recognize several names of well-

known warriors in the exhibits.William F. Cody, also known as “Buffalo Bill,”

was a civilian scout with the 3rd Cavalry. Cody wasawarded the nation’s top honor – the Medal of Honor– for his gallantry in action at Platte River, Neb., in1872. The medal was rescinded in 1916, but wasreinstated in 1989.

Cody is one of 23 names on the Medal ofHonor Board in the museum, which lists membersof the 3rd Cavalry who were awarded the nation’smost prestigious award.

General George S. Patton was the regiment’scolonel from 1938 to 1940. General Patton was anexcellent horseman and his name is engraved on theGoodrich horsemanship trophy displayed in themuseum.

The museum had its beginnings as a regimentaltrophy room at Fort Meade, Md. The trophy roomlater became a museum. It has been relocated withthe regiment each time they have been moved: toBaumholder, West Germany, Fort Lewis, Wash., andFort Bliss, Texas. In 1996, the regiment was relocatedto Fort Carson.

The museum will eventually be relocated to FortHood, Texas, when the 3rd Armored CavalryRegiment is moved there.

The 3rd Cavalry Museum is one of only a hand-ful of museums that traces Army history back furtherthan the 20th century.

The museum displays historic uniforms andfirearms, reproduction saddles and other artifacts.

Special displays depict the regiment’s participa-tion in the Civil War, the Spanish-American War,early Indian wars and the War with Mexico.

Newer exhibits depict the regiment’s six-monthtour in Bosnia and Iraqi Freedom. A large map ofIraq is in the museum and shows the area of opera-tions of the 3rd ACR.

Groups can arrange a guided tour of the muse-um. Self-guided tours are also welcome.

A display of military vehicles associatedwith the regiment is behind the museum. An H-34Choctaw Helicopter, used by the 3rd ACR from1955 to 1968 and a rare 1942 Willys MB Jeep

are among the displays. There are also light and medium armored

tanks and a rare combined animal and cargotrailer, called a “Cavalry Porte,” used from the1930s through World War II to haul sparemounts for the horse cavalry. It was later used tohaul mules.

The outdoor display can be reached bygoing through the museum.

Although the museum is devoted to the 3rd ACR’s unit’s history, a map of Fort Carson in the 1940s is popular with visitors who wereassigned to the post during World War II andwant to locate familiar places.

Fort Carson’s 64-year history will bedepicted in a future facility. The Mountain PostHistorical Center is in the planning stages andmay be located near the Kit Carson statue andthe Global War on Terrorism Memorial near thepost’s main gate.

The 30,000-square-foot facility will pro-vide housing for post artifacts, several galleries, a visitors’ orientation center, office space and preserva-tion facilities, according to an editorial by LonMatejczyk, printed in the Sept. 16 issue of theColorado Springs Business Journal.

The historic center will be funded by theColorado Springs community, said Mr. Matejczyk.

A sign near Gate 1 identifies the historic center’s site. Groundbreaking is expected to occur in2006, with construction expected to last two years.

The 3rd Cavalry Museum is open from 9 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

There is no admission charge for the museum,which is open to the general public. It is closed allfederal holidays.

Cavalry-related gifts, including Stetsons, spurs,cups, pens, caps and other souvenirs are availableonline at 3ACR.com.

The museum is in Building 2160 on BarkeleyAvenue, between Khe Sanh Street and TitusBoulevard going toward Gate 20. Watch carefully forthe small, white square sign which says “CavalryMuseum,” then take a quick left. There is a one-waydriveway in front of the museum.


HAPPENINGS

Just the Facts• Travel time:

15 minutes

• For ages: all

• Type: military museum

• Location: Fort Carson

Mountain Post

• Admission: Free and

open to the public

An H-34 Choctaw Helicopter is one of the 3rd Cavalry’s static displays. It was used by the 3rd ArmoredCavalry Regiment from 1955 to 1968. A rare 1942 Willys MB Jeep is also among the museum displays.

Captain Ralph Richmond,7th Infantry Division, cata-logs some of the 3rd muse-um’s acquisitions.

An honor board in the Museum lists recipients of theMedal of Honor who have served in the unit.

Museum Director, PaulMartin, prepares anitem for display in the3rd Cavalry Museum.

Cavalry, from Page 17

Concert series begins at Arnold HallThe Air Force Academy concert series staff pres-

ents “Babes in Toyland,” Saturday; “Broadway’s Spiritof Christmas,” Dec.18; “Star Spangled Celebration,”March 5; and “Mannheim Steam-roller,” April 27. Fortickets, call 333-4497. All performances are in ArnoldHall Theater.

Nutcracker ballet comes to PuebloThe Sangre de Cristo Ballet performers will pres-

ent “The Nutcracker” Friday through Sunday at theSangre de Cristo Arts Center Theater in Pueblo, Colo.For ticket information, call (719) 295-7200.

Andy Warhol exhibit on display“Andy Warhol’s Dream America” exhibit is on

display from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday throughThursday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday through Saturdayand 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Dec. 31. Theexhibit is located at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts

Center, 30 W. Dale St. Admission to the exhibit is $10for adults and free for fine arts center members. Theexhibit will close Dec. 31.

Christmas events coming soonThe medieval festival “Everyman’s Revels” is

from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Monday through Wednesday atGlen Eyrie Castle, located at 3820 N. 30th St.

“The Christmas Madrigal” festival takes placefrom 5:30 to 10 p.m. today through Sunday, Dec. 15 to17 and 19 to 21. For information, call 272-7460 orvisit www.GlenEyrieGroup.org.

Ski resort staff offers pass discounts Keystone Resort staff is offering a discounted

season pass for servicemembers. The Liberty Passcosts $129 and is good throughout the 2005 to 2006season. Active-duty and Reserve servicemembersmust present military identification cards at theKeystone Resort season pass office for their discount.Dependants are also eligible. Children 12 years andunder are eligible for a $79 Liberty Pass.

For information, call (800) 322-9498.

SnoFest!!! on horizonSnoFest!!! will be Jan. 27 through 29. Special

snow events will be held and limited discount lodgingis available. For information, call the Peterson Leisureand Travel Office at 556-1760 or visit the SnoFest!!!Web site at www.usafaservices.com/ snofest.htm.

Pioneers Museum staff servesup lunch exhibit

“Lunch Box Memories,” is an exhibit from theSmithsonian, in the Pioneers Museum through Jan. 8. Itis a collection of 64 rare, metal lunch boxes. The muse-um, located at 215 S. Tejon, in Colorado Springs is freeand open Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Nutcracker collection arrivesfor Christmas

Pueblo’s Buell Children’s Museum will show“Everything Nutcracker” today through Dec. 31. Themuseum also has an enormous collection of nut-crackers on display. Whimsical nutcrackers created


www.peterson.af.mil

See Go Get Out, Page 20

by local artists are on display as well as a ginger-bread land with sugar plums, candy canes and gum-drops. Children can create paper gingerbread menand dress up as characters from Tchaikovsky’sNutcracker Ballet or visit the enchanted forest. Mrs.

Claus will be in the museum from noon to 2 p.m. thefirst three Saturdays in December. Buell Children’sMuseum is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdaysthrough Saturdays. It is located at 210 N. Santa FeAve. in Pueblo.

Visitors traveling south on Interstate 25 shouldtake Exit 98b.

Denver theaters come alive

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is now being per-formed in the Country Dinner Playhouse Wednesdaysthrough Sundays in southern Denver - just off Interstate25 and Arapahoe Road. For reservations, call (303) 799-1410 or visit www.countrydinnerplayhouse.com.

SPACE OBSERVERThursday, December 8, 200520 AROUND PETE

To submit information for the base calendar, e-mail

[email protected]

Deployed Spouses Dinnerand 21 Space Wing

Holiday Tree Lighting4 p.m. Base Chapel

Federal Holiday

Monday, January 2

Friday, December 9 Friday, December 23

Air Force SpaceCommand Family Day


Monday, December 26 Friday, December 30

Saturday, December 25

Christmas,Happy Holidays


December is Drunk

and Drugged Driving

Prevention month

noteworthy

Go Get Out, from Page 19

Documents

21ST SPACE WING CHAIN OF COMMAND – PAGES 14-15 · 2005. 12. 8. · report suspicious activity. Call 556-4000 Force shaping a fact of life for Team Pete officers By Stefan Bocchino