FLYERFLYERVIKINGVIKING

934th Airlift Wing (AFRC) Minneapolis-St. Paul IAP Air Reserve Station, Minn. August 2005 Vol. 27, No. 8

Inside:Inside:Inside:Inside:Inside: SGLI increases maximum benefit - page 5 Motorcyclist rides for cancer awareness - page 7 Order of the Flying Viking induction - pages 8 and 9 934th Airman named teacher of the year - page 11

Inside:Inside:Inside:Inside:Inside: SGLI increases maximum benefit - page 5 Motorcyclist rides for cancer awareness - page 7 Order of the Flying Viking induction - pages 8 and 9 934th Airman named teacher of the year - page 11

Honorary commanders get a chance to take a flight on one of the unit’s C-130 Hercules during the July unit training assembly.Photo by Staff Sgt. Josh Nason

2 Around the Wing

This funded Air Force newspa-per is an authorized publication formembers of the U.S. military ser-vices. The contents of the VikingFlyer are not necessarily the views ofor endorsed by the U.S. govern-ment, the Department of Defenseor the Department of the Air Force.

The editorial content is edited,prepared and provided by the 934thAirlift Wing Public Affairs Office(U.S. Air Force Reserve Command),Minneapolis-St. Paul InternationalAirport Joint Air Reserve Station,760 Military Highway, Minneapolis,MN 55450-2100. For more infor-mation, call (612) 713-1217.

The Viking Flyer is mailed toreservists’ homes. Copies of theViking Flyer are also available atvarious locations on base.

All photos are Air Force photo-graphs unless otherwise indicated.

The deadline for all submissionsis the Sunday of the UTA onemonth prior to publication.

EDITORIAL STAFF934th Airlift Wing commanderCol. James J. Muscatell Jr.

Chief of Public AffairsLt. Col. Margaret McGlinn

NCOICTech. Sgt. Jeffrey S. Williams

EditorStaff Sgt. Nicholas Olson

Staff writersStaff Sgt. Jennifer A. JohnsonSenior Airman Curtis Holden

PhotographersStaff Sgt. John HerrickStaff Sgt. Josh Nason

VIKING FLYER

Aeromedical EvacuationThe squadron welcomed new

members Senior Airman RebeccaPopper and Capt. Joseph Malcolm.

Senior Airman Bridgette Boentges,Staff Sgt. Denisa Ene and Master Sgt.Christopher Sayre were given the Aboveand Beyond Award for excellence on theirFit to Fight test.

The squadron also recognized theaccomplishments of three of our mostrecently qualified members. SeniorAirman Michael Armesto and SeniorAirman Elisabeth Devin both finishedthe training as an Aeromedical EvacuationTechnician. Second Lt. Adam Hohmanalso completed the training and rigorousqualification criteria as a Flight Nurse.

Aeromedical StagingCongratulations to the Airman of the

quarter, Senior Airman AmandaKvamme, NCO of the quarter

Master Sgt. Robert Larson andCompany Grade officer of the quarter, 1stLt. Michelle Thien.

Senior Airman Sean Sanford isawarded AFRC Airman of the Yearassigned to an Aeromedical StagingSquadron.

After starting his career at the 934thfive years ago, Lt. Col. Gary Peitzmeierhas opted for active duty. He will bestationed at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio.

Master Sgt. Naomi Williams hasbeen reassigned to Westover AFB, Mass.after nearly a decade at the 934th ASTS.

CommunicationsWelcomed new Chief Information

Management ART, Master Sgt. PattySahr, from the 27th Aerial Port Squadron.

Tech. Sgt. Janelle Bombeck wasawarded the Air Force Achievement Medalfor service with Civil Engineers to Hondu-ras in March 2004.

LogisticsWelcome newcomers Senior Airman

Brian Link to transportation and StaffSgt. Andrew Zumhofe to supply.

Congratulations to Staff Sgt. DustinKruger on completing the LeadershipDevelopment Program.

Best wishes to Tech. Sgt. MarcSmall who has been fighting a battle withHodgkin’s disease.

MaintenanceCongratulations to Maj. David

Zenner for receiving the General LewAllen, Jr. Award at the Air Force ReserveCommand level. The award is for seniornoncommissioned officers and officers.

Mission SupportCongratulations to Tech. Sgt. Brian

Wollak for achieving a score of 90 percenton his 5-level end of course test.

Operations SupportStaff. Sgt. Lindsay Hetchler recentlygraduated from the formal OperationsIntelligence Course at Goodfellow AFB,Texas. During the course she was nameddistinguished graduate with a 98 percentgrade point average.

Security ForcesThe squadron welcomed newcomers

Airman 1st Class Chad Iverson.Master Sgt. Barry Houkoos, Master

Sgt. Nicolette Shegstad, Staff Sgt.Christopher Dobson, Staff Sgt.Jamielynn Shelite, Staff Sgt. KristianMontenez, Staff Sgt. Scott Frazer, StaffSgt. Heather Vellagas, Staff Sgt. JustinSibenhaler, and Senior Airman WilliamLivingstone successfully completed PatriotProtector at Little Rock AFB, Ark.

Staff Sgt. Michael Bier competed inthe Lifetime Fitness Triathlon on July 16thand the Heart of the Lakes Triathlon inAnnandale on July 17th.

Staff Sgt. Michael Bier, Staff Sgt.James Anderson, Senior AirmanSeanwong Brown, and Senior AirmanKevin Graf were given the Above andBeyond Award for excellence on the Fit toFight test.

Senior Airman Jacob Larsensuccessfully completed Combat Arms andMaintenance Training school.

ServicesCongratulations to Senior Airman

Fredrick Richardson and AirmanShenetta Hampton on their promotions.

Tech. Sgt. Dewayne Schneider hasfinally hung up his spatula and apron afterover 30 years military time.

Several members of the unit are goingto Dover AFB, Del. for mortuary trainingin August. Staff Sgt. Michelle Pagel willbe attending the Services Apprentice Courseat Lackland AFB, Texas.

Commentary 3

Encouraging Airmen to budget and save moneyBy Col. Teresa Hams934th Mission SupportGroup commander

When I was in my 20s, Iworked for a finance company.Every day I processed loansfor people who neededmoney or were desperate topay bills. I quickly discoveredthat people do not realizehow much trouble they canget into by mismanagingmoney.

Many people are tooimpatient to save for a car, sothey buy a big, new car with allof the extras. They finance itby making monthly pay-ments. They also use creditcards to buy furniture, gas,tools, clothing, dinner,motorcycles, boats or planetickets. Again, they makepayments. They go to thebank and take out cash withtheir bank card. They writechecks too, but do not balance

their checkbooks and do notdo a budget to figure out howmuch they are paying out eachmonth.

Over time, their monthlypayments and their cashwithdrawals exceed theirpaychecks and they havetrouble paying for rent orphone bills. The next thingthey know, their car is beingrepossessed, the phone isturned off, and they aredeclaring bankruptcy.

According to onestatistic, three out of fiveAmericans cannot pay offtheir credit cards every month.They have over-extendedthemselves and get deeper indebt every month. If you areone of those people, you maybe receiving calls fromcreditors and collectionagencies. You probably feelstressed and are afraid to pickup the phone or answer the

The word “detail,” as defined byMerriam-Webster Dictionary, is: “selectionof a person or group for a particular task.”

In the military, the term is used quitefrequently. Airmen can volunteer or bepicked for any number of details. These caninclude; picking up FOD on the runway,mowing the grass, or even painting abuilding.

Since arriving in theater, I have beenparticipating in the toughest detail I haveever done. It is called the Patriot Detail.

The Patriot Detail is a ceremony

designed to pay proper respect to our fallencomrades, both American and Coalition,who have paid the ultimate price in defenseof our Nations. Our fallen brothers andsisters deserve our respect and heartfeltgratitude for the part they played infurthering our nation’s commitment todeliver democracy and peace to the peopleof Iraq. Furthermore, their families will takecomfort in knowing we paid our finalrespect in remembrance and prayer as theirsons, daughters and loved ones make theirfinal journey home.

As a group, we line up in formationand march out to an awaiting aircraft by afirst sergeant. After splitting into two even

lines, with about 10 feet between us, we faceeach other. Upon hearing the command“Present arms!” we execute a three secondsalute. At this time, the honor guard ormortuary affairs personnel carry the flag-draped casket through the formation.

After placing the casket into the aircraft,we march into the aircraft and gatheraround the coffin. The Chaplain, whosometimes puts a name to the person inthe coffin, then says a few kind words forour fallen comrade. Then the detail isdismissed.

After having worked a few details, Ihave now taken over as the lead PatriotDetail First Sergeant.

Patriot Detail pays respect to fallen comrades overseas

door because someone wantsyou to pay a bill.

If you are in trouble, gethelp now. Create a budgetworksheet to map out yourfinances. Figure out how toget out of debt. Ask aneighborhood banker to helpyou. You could also call theAir Force One Source helpline. One Source has peoplewho can help you with

By Master Sgt. Chris Sayre934th Aeromedial EvacuationSquadron

budgeting and financial issues.The number is (800) 707-5784.

As you learn to makegood decisions about money,you will find yourself makingbetter decisions about yourfinances, your investmentsand your life. You will feelmore secure about the futureand you will be happy andprosper – that is my wish foryou.

The hotline provides wing members with a direct link to the wing commander to relay kudos, concerns or sugges-tions on wing matters.

To reach the hotline, call (612) 713-4685. Remember to leave your name and phone number.Before calling, be sure to always use your chain of command or call the responsible agency first so it can have the

chance to help you.

Wing Commander’s Hotline

Photo by Staff Sgt. Nicholas Olson

AUGUST 2005

4

VIKING FLYER

News

FEHB premiums extended for reservists, guardsmenRANDOLPH AIR

FORCE BASE, Texas(AFPN) — Department ofDefense civilian employeescalled to active duty support-ing a contingency operationmay continue their FederalEmployees’ Health Benefitscoverage, and have the agencypay their share of thepremiums, for up to 24months.

This applies only toreserve component civilianemployees called or ordered toactive duty supporting acontingency operation on orafter Sept. 14, 2001.

The law extendedcoverage from 18 to 24months, and provides thatagency-paid premiums startthe date an employee is placedon leave without pay orseparated from civil service toperform active duty. Previ-ously, coverage and agency

payment of premiums beganthe date the employee enteredactive duty.

“The benefits andentitlement service team hasautomatically extended from18 to 24 months the coverageand agency-paid premiums forAir Force-serviced employeescurrently on active duty whoseFEHB coverage has not yetbeen terminated and whomeet … eligibility require-ments,” said Janet Thomasof the Air Force PersonnelCenter’s civilian benefits andentitlement service team here.“The beginning date was alsoadjusted.”

To be eligible for the 24months coverage and agency-paid premiums, employeesmust meet the followingrequirements:

— Must be a civilianemployee of the Departmentof Defense at the time called

to perform active duty.— Must be called to active

duty on or after Sept. 14, 2001.— Must be enrolled in

FEHB and elect to continue theenrollment while on active duty.

— Must be a U.S. reservistor guardsman.

— Must be called orordered to active duty (volun-tarily or involuntarily) support-ing a contingency operation asdefined in 10 U.S.C. 101(a)(13).

— Must be placed on leavewithout pay or separated fromfederal civilian service toperform active duty.

— Must serve on activeduty for a period of more than30 consecutive days.

934th AW cancer survivor organizes ride to raise awarenessBy Staff Sgt. Jennifer Johnson934th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Less than a year ago Tech. Sgt. ScottHellzen, 96th Airlift Squadronloadmaster, was battling prostate cancer.Today, he is cancer free and is organizing amotorcycle ride to raise money andincrease awareness for the prevention ofthe disease.

“Let’s Ride for Prostate Cancer” willstart at Thompson Park in West St. Paulat 10 a.m. Aug. 20. The cost of the eventwill be $25 and people will receive a T-shirt, food and drinks. There will also bea silent auction with sports memorabiliaand gift certificates.

The actual ride will start at noon andwill go through Stillwater, Taylors Falls,Cambridge and Ramsey. Sergeant Hellzensaid he chose the 160-mile trip for itsscenery.

“The route we are taking is abso-lutely beautiful,” he said, adding that thecliffs and river should make the dayenjoyable for everyone.

Sergeant Hellzen came up with theidea after he realized something neededto be done to raise awareness for prostatecancer.

“I’m a huge admirerof Lance Armstrongand felt it was my dutyand obligation to makepeople more aware,” hesaid. “So many people diefrom the disease everyyear and most of thetime it’s because theydon’t find out untilit’s too late. Theworst part is that itjust takes a simpleblood test.”

The sergeant added the proceedsfrom the day will be donated to Us TOOInternational Prostate Cancer Educationand Support Network. The network is aWeb site that is geared to educate peopleand provide support for patients andtheir families.

“The Web site definitely helped mywife and I make informed decisions. Itcovered everything from treatmentoptions to side effects on medications,”he said. “We wanted to give back tosomething that helped us out so much.”

Chief Master Sgt. Thomas Foss,96th AS chief loadmaster, is planning onattending the event and said he’s lookingforward to doing something worthwhilewhile “hitting the open road.”

“Sergeant Hellzen is a good guy andhas the kindest heart so when he gotprostate cancer, it was a wakeup call,” thechief said. “It goes back to doingsomething important for other peoplebecause someday it could be us.”

Sergeant Hellzen said he’s thankfulfor all the support he has been receivingand said anyone is welcome to attend theevent, even if they just come for thefestivities.

For more information or to register,call Sergeant Hellzen at 651-230-6659 ore-mail him at hellzs01@yahoo.com.

“Periods of time in a paidleave status during the 24-month period do not extendthe 24-month period,” Ms.Thomas said. “FEHBpremiums withheld duringthese periods of paid leave willnot be reimbursable.”

Questions may beaddressed to a BEST benefitscounselor by calling (800) 616-3775. People can press ext. 2 forAir Force serviced civilian, thenext. 2 for BEST benefits andentitlements, and follow theprompts. Employees located inforeign areas can dial a toll-freedirect-access number for thecountry they are in, then (800)616-3775.

Direct-access numbers are located online atwww.business.att.com/bt/dial_guide.jsp.

For more information, go towww.afpc.randolph.af.mil/dpc/best/docs/

FEHB_24_Months.pdf.

F.Y.I.

News 5Life insurance benefits gain increased emphasis

WASHINGTON – Air ForceReserve Command senior leaders wantreservists to know about the importanceof Servicemembers’ Group Life Insur-ance.

A recent tragedy involving a reservistwho declined SGLI coverage prompted acall for this benefit to receive moreemphasis. In addition to requiringreservists to report to their militarypersonnel flight to decline coverage inperson, command officials are looking atadding squadron-level counseling by thefirst sergeant or commander.

This increased concern comes on theheels of legislation to increase themaximum coverage, to ensure beneficia-ries know when an individual turnsdown the maximum and to help servicemembers who sustain traumatic warinjuries.

The $82 billion supplementallegislation signed into law by PresidentBush May 11 raises maximum SGLIcoverage from $250,000 to $400,000 andprovides payouts of up to $100,000 forpeople with traumatic injuries.

In a new twist introduced throughthe legislation, troops with dependentsmust get their spouse’s approval topurchase less than the full amount ofSGLI coverage. In the case of peoplewho are not married, the designatedbeneficiary will receive notice when theperson purchases less than the maximumcoverage.

Defense and Veteran Affairs officialsare working on the details of theexpanded benefits.

The increased SGLI coverage willstart Sept. 1, and the so-called “traumaticSGLI” benefit will begin Dec. 1. Thelegislation directs that both benefits willbe retroactive to Oct. 7, 2001, saidStephen Wurtz, the VA’s deputy assistantdirector for insurance.

Traumatic SGLI benefits will beretroactive for troops who have lostlimbs, eyesight or speech or receivedother traumatic injuries as a direct resultsof injuries received during OperationIraqi Freedom or Operation EnduringFreedom. The benefit does not apply topeople suffering from disease.

The retroactive coverage increase ispayable as a result of deaths in eitheroperation, or under other conditionsprescribed by the secretary of defense, Mr.Wurtz said.

People enrolled in the SGLIprogram will notice an increase in theirpremiums when the increases take effect.The traumatic SGLI benefit will be rolledinto the basic SGLI program and willlikely cost about $1 a month, Mr. Wurtzsaid.

Troops opting for maximum SGLIcoverage – $400,000 vs. the current$250,000 – will see their monthlypremiums increase from $16.25 to $26,Mr. Wurtz said. This is based on the rateof 6.5 cents per $1,000 of insurancecoverage.

SGLI coverage is currently availablein $10,000 increments, but as of Sept. 1,the increments will increase to $50,000.

Because the rates have not changed,people who retain $250,000 or less

coverage will see no increase in theirpremiums, Mr. Wurtz said, except for the$1 “traumatic SGLI” premium.

While these expanded benefits willbe provided retroactively, affected peoplewon’t be charged retroactive payments, hesaid. DOD will absorb that cost.

The new traumatic SGLI benefit isdesigned to provide “a quick infusion ofcash” for cash-strapped families oftroops recuperating from traumaticinjuries received in the line of duty, Mr.Wurtz said.

Compensation will range from$25,000 to $100,000, and is designed tohelp families of severely wounded troopsleave their homes and jobs to be withtheir loved one during recovery.

“These families incur a lot ofexpenses, and this is designed to helpthem financially,” Mr. Wurtz said.

VA staff members will consult withDOD to write regulations that will putthe new SGLI benefits into effect

“Lots and lots of details have to beworked out,” Mr. Wurtz said.

Among outstanding issues is thefact that the expanded SGLI coverage ispart of the supplemental legislationpackage that funds operations onlythrough Sept. 30. That’s 30 days after thenew SGLI limit takes effect and twomonths before the traumatic SGLIbenefit begins.

Mr. Wurtz said the VA is confidentCongress will resolve this issue beforethere’s any lapse in coverage.

The VA will continue to oversee andcontrol the SGLI program.

AUGUST 2005

Did you know?The C-130H model of the

Hercules can carry upwardsof 42,000 pounds of pay-load. With that weight it cantravel 1,208 miles, or fromhere to New York City, with-out refueling.

News6

VIKING FLYER

Second LieutenantBrandon Schrader

Senior Master SergeantCalvin Johnson

Master SergeantBrian Barclay, Tina Carlson, Michael Gigstead, Sarah Schlicht, Timothy Thompson

Technical SergeantDaniel Boedeker, John Cheney, Aaron Hillberg, Brian Knutson, Anthony Mallizzio, Robert Murphy

Staff SergeantKayla Bultinck, Chantell Chase, Timothy Gassman, Amber Meyer, April Pearson, Adam Peterson, Cory Preusse,

Matthew Weber, Adam Webster

Senior AirmanBridget Boentges, Cale Byrdziak, Amber Moore, Fredrick Richardson, Jeremy Schroeder, Jessie Van Ouse

Airman First ClassGrace Claus

AirmanRoger Gomez and Shanetta Hampton

Meritorious Service MedalLt. Col. Douglas Kveene, Master Sgt. Peter Desanctis

Commendation MedalSenior Master Sgt. Roy Shives, Master Sgt. Robert Larson, Master Sgt. Steven Nicolai, Master Sgt. David Sowers,

Master Sgt. Peter Welter, Tech. Sgt. Ian Owen, Tech. Sgt. Ricky Smasal

Achievement Medal1st Lt. Julie Hamiel, Tech. Sgt. Mark Woodsman, Senior Airman Brandon Lancaster

What is your best summer memory?

In the SpotlightPhotos by Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey Williams

“Jet skiing on the St. Croix River in 2002.The jet ski told you information like thewater temperature and the direction youwere going. It was pretty cool.”

“Just went to Alaska right after theJune 2005 UTA doing the campingthing. What a blast!”

“I was stationed in Germany in1994 and spent a month touringWestern Europe.”

Tech. Sgt. Scott Flaherty, 934thSecurity Forces Squadron

Senior Master Sgt. Dave Cormier, 934thMaintenance Squadron Tech. Sgt. Martha Grimes, 934th MEO

Awards and Decorations

News 7

By Staff Sgt. Jennifer JohnsonStaff Writer

Thanks in part to a group ofvolunteers from the base, a housekeeperfrom the 934th Services Squadron willunlock her dreams when she receives thekeys to her new home in November.

Khadra Hassan, who has beenworking at the base since 2001, is therecipient of a Habitat for Humanityhouse in Northeast Minneapolis.

The program, designed to provideaffordable housing to low-incomefamilies, will allow the Hassan family tohave a safe and comfortable home, saidMs. Hassan.

“It’s a really good neighborhood andreally safe, which is good for my chil-dren,” she said.

Approximately 15 to 20 volunteersfrom the wing were on site April 19, May27 and June 15 to help build twodifferent Habitat for Humanity homes.The crew worked on everything fromputting up sheetrock to painting thewalls, said Margo Leslie, 934th SVSdivision chief.

Ms. Hassan was surprised when shesaw people from base working on hernew home.

“I didn’t know they were going tobe there,” she said. “I looked over andsaid, ‘That’s my boss working here!’”

Ms. Leslie said she was just assurprised.

“Khadra didn’t mention that shewas getting the house,” she said. “I was

absolutely shocked when I saw it washer.”

This is the second year volunteersfrom the base have joined other federalagencies to build Habitat for Humanityhouses, said Ms. Leslie.

“I find it personally rewarding,” shesaid. “It’s a great project, and I think it’simportant to do something for afford-able housing. I see what it’s like forpeople who wouldn’t normally be able toafford a house. This is a great opportu-nity to make their dreams come true.”

William Fauver, from the 934thCommunications Flight, said he found

the experience rewarding and woulddefinitely recommend it for anyone.

“Probably the most important thingI got from this project was new friend-ships,” he said. “I had a sense ofaccomplishment as I watched theprogression of the house each time Iwent.”

Ms. Leslie said it was also great forthe Air Force.

“It establishes rapport with thecivilian community,” she said. “Everyoneis so thankful and it brings the commu-nity and the military together in oneplace.”

Habitat for Humanity makes dreamcome true for base employee

Members of the base services squadron help to construct the home ofKhadra Hassan, a North Country Lodge employee.

UTA Schedule (Including FY 06)Sept. 10-11Oct. 1-2Nov. 5-6Dec. 3-4Jan. 7-8Feb. 4-5Mar. 4-5

Apr. 1-2May 6-7June 3-4July 15-16Aug. 5-6Sep. 9-10

AUGUST 2005

Fea8

VIKING FLYER

Order of the Flying Vikin

Col. Muscatell presents a plaque to MarySavage, co-owner of Hiawatha Dry Cleaners andLaunderers, during the ceremony.

Col. James J. Muscatel, Jr. presents Darryl Graves with thewing scarf, inducting him into the Order of the Flying Vikings.The ceremony took place on July 22nd. The purpose of theprogram is to provide a way to show appreciation to those whohave given their steadfast support and made outstanding

The wing Honor Guard present the Air Force colorsduring the playing of the Air Force song.

9

AUGUST 2005

The three inductees listen to Col. Muscatell speakabout the importance of the honor.

Richard Pavlasek speaks to theaudience about his experience withthe 934th Airlift Wing.

contributions to our wing and the Air Force Reserve. Mr.Graves retired from the 934th AW in 1993 as an aircraftmechanic foreman. He currently volunteers his time at theFamily Resource Center where he assists newcomers andfamily members with military issues.

Photos by Staff Sgt.Josh Nason

ature

ngs inducts latest honorees

10

VIKING FLYER

Feature

From a distance, all aircraft of acertain model look the same. They mayhave a different number on the tail or adifferent stripe designating their unit, butit is the nose art, located near the front ofthe aircraft, that sets it apart.

Since the earliest part of aviation,nose art has been attached to aircraft insome manner distinctive to its unit, itscountry or its crew. Often times it is animage of a pinup or a cartoon icon thatbrings back memories of World War IIwhen planes like the Memphis Belle flewover Germany or the P-51 Mustang thatsported shark teeth.

The aircraft at the 934th AW aregetting a similar treatment with uniqueand creative symbols created by Airmenfrom the unit.

The first of the new designs wasunveiled in June for aircraft 9143. It wascreated by Master Sgt. Tim Payton, 934th

Maintenance Squadron. Under theguidance of Lt. Col. Jeffrey Higgins, 934th

Aircraft Maintenance Squadron com-mander, Sergeant Payton was commis-sioned to create a POW/MIA-themedpiece for one of the aircraft.

“He heard that I liked to draw andasked me if I would be willing to makeone,” said Sergeant Payton. “He wantedme to use the POW/MIA flag as one ofthe elements and I went from there.”

The nose art that Sergeant Paytoncreated uses an American flag andelements of the prisoner of war themewith the phrase “You are not forgotten.”

“I really enjoy drawing and it is funto get your work out where people cansee it,” said Sergeant Payton.

The nose art on the previous C-130E aircraft was a picture of the state ofMinnesota with the names of Minnesotacities. The current aircraft, which havecome from other installations through-out the country, are being rededicatedwith the new nose art to reflect a localspirit, explained Sergeant Payton.

“The theme of the new designs aretied to patriotism and Minnesota,” saidColonel Higgins.

Sergeant Payton’s design is the first

in a series of nose art to be commis-sioned.

He is also coordinating with MasterSgt. Aaron Mikonowicz, 934th MXStraining specialist, to work on art for theother aircraft. Sergeant Mikonowicz hadpreviously created nose art while sta-tioned in England.

“I painted the nose art on the wingcommander’s A-10 Thunderbolt in1988,” said Sergeant Mikonowicz. He wassurprised to find out that, years later, theaircraft still bore the nose art, eventhough the aircraft had been reassignedon more than one occasion.

He was also surprised to learn thathis artwork had made it into a videogame.

“My brother in law was playing aflight simulator game on his computerand had downloaded that particularaircraft,” explained Sergeant Mikonowicz.The simulated aircraft still bore his work,something that Mikonowicz took pridein.

“I am excited to be a part of thewhole idea,” said Sergeant Mikonowicz.

It allows squadrons to take ownershipand to more personally identify anairplane.”

Sergeant Mikonowicz also pointedout that the name and nose art on anaircraft can make a difference in historicalterms.

“No one would remember theEnola Gay if it hadn’t been painted onthe side of the airplane,” said SergeantMikonowicz. “I think it is neat to have acanvas that is always on the move.”

Sergeant Payton is working on anadditional design that will incorporate theMinnesota state quarter and one that willinclude the use of local professionalsports teams.

Sergeant Mikonowicz is developingnose art for two aircraft. The first is atribute to Minnesota veterans. Thesecond is a Viking-themed piece that willwork with the Norse mythology ofMinnesota, said Sergeant Mikonowicz.

The next nose art should becompleted in the near future and will beunveiled in a ceremony similar to the onein May.

By Staff Sgt. Nicholas OlsonStaff Writer

New nose art helps set aircraft apart

One of Master Sgt. Tim Payton’s original concepts for the nose art design.

11Feature

A member of the 934th Airlift Wingis being honored this month for hisexcellent performance of his civilian jobduties in the community where he worksand lives.

Senior Airman Edward Savage, 934th

Aeromedical Evacuation Squadronadministration specialist, recently wasselected to receive an R.J. McElroy TrustFoundation 2005 Gold Star Teacher ofthe Year Award for Black Hawk County,Iowa, representing Blessed SacramentElementary School in Waterloo in thediscipline of Physical Education andHealth.

“To be recognized is awesome,” saidAirman Savage. “It makes you feel great.”

Airman Savage is one of tenteachers, each instructing various agegroups of elementary through highschool aged students, in differentacademic disciplines, to win the award.He also received $1,000.

“The money wasn’t the big thing, itwas being recognized by the students andparents. That was really cool,” AirmanSavage said.

Airman Savage teaches pre-schoolthrough eighth grade. In order to win

The Gold Star Award, AirmanSavage had to be nominated by hisstudents, their parents and/or colleaguesfor teaching above and beyond thenormal scope of his instructor duties,said Airman Savage.

“The purpose of the award is tostop and notice the classroom teachingstars shining quietly among us,” accord-ing to the R.J. McElroy Trust FoundationWeb site. “These are the teachers whospark students’ imaginations and ignite alove for learning, who set a shiningexample and who make a difference inthe lives of their students. These are theteachers who challenge our children toreach for the stars.”

The R.J. McElroy Trust Foundationwas established by Mr. R.J. McElroy in

1965 and is also located in Waterloo,Iowa, according to the Web site.

Airman Savage explained that life asa teacher can pose some very difficultchallenges to overcome.

“At the high school level, I quicklychanged the program into a lot oflifelong activities including weighttraining, Pilates and Yoga,” said AirmanSavage. “You try to teach kids thesethings as early as grade school.”

“We talk about life skills and notpicking on other people and not being allcompetitive. It doesn’t matter who winsand loses, and I don’t keep track of

scores. That drives them nuts becausethey want to know who wins. That’s themost challenging thing.”

Airman Savage said he teaches hishigh school students Tai Chi and willsoon start teaching them cricket, which heplayed while living in England. AirmanSavage also said he wants to teach hishigh school students badminton.

“So, little by little you educate themabout a few different sports,” continuedSavage. “I guess it’s changing the wholemind set of the three R’s – Roll Call, Rollout the Ball, and Read the paper.

934th Airman receives teacher ofthe year honors in IowaStory and photo by Senior AirmanCurtis HoldenStaff Writer

Senior Airman Edward Savage performs his duties at the 934th Aero-medical Evacuation Squadron during the July UTA.

SAVAGE cont. Page 12AUGUST 2005

VIKING FLYER

12 Feature

Airman Savage explainedthat life as a teacher can providemany benefits and rewardingexperiences beyond theclassroom.

“In P.E. this year, I noticedthe 2nd grade daughter of oneof the parents who nominatedme was having trouble with hermotor skills,” said Savage.“And I just mentioned that onher report card.”

Airman Savage said theparents became emotional butthey were not offended.

“I explained to them,compared to some of the kidsshe’s just a little slower andsometimes it’s just age andgenetics, but sometimes itmight be a bigger problem,”said Airman Savage.

The parents took Briannato a doctor and it turned outshe was having seizures thatthey were not aware of. Briannawas given medication and hassince been performing well, he

said.“I helped a family help

solve their kid’s problemwithout me really knowing it,”said Airman Savage. “That’svery rewarding in helping a kidprosper a little.

Other parents can vouchfor his positive influence ontheir children. Parents Kelly andDouglas McCarthy have twodaughters, Katie, an eighthgrader, and Maggie, a fourthgrader, who have been hisstudents at Blessed SacramentElementary.

“I would say he’s apositive role model for all ofthe students,” said Mrs.McCarthy who also serves as aReligious Education Assistantat Blessed Sacrament. “Hebuilds up their self-esteem. Hemakes them feel like they canaccomplish anything. Hedevelops them into leaders andalso makes learning fun.”

Mr. McCarthy, who alsoserves as the Blessed Sacrament

Elementary School AthleticBoard with Airman Savage,said, “If my daughters have afun day with Mr. Savage, they’llcome home and tell us all aboutit.”

Mr. McCarthy added thatthe Athletic Board membersusually crew an athletic eventabout once or twice a monthbut that “Eddie [Savage] isalways in all the home sportingevents for the school eventhough he wouldn’t have to.”

Mrs. McCarthy saidAirman Savage’s best skills arebeing able to connect with eachstudent at the different agelevels.

“He has a lot of first-handexperience and knowledge inPhysical Education and Health,so it makes it a lot moreinteresting for the kids,” shesaid.

Airman Savage said he triesto use his knowledge, skills andexperiences to have a positiveimpact on the lives of his

SAVAGE cont.

Members of the 934th Airlift Winghave a new gathering place where they candine outside next to a river and enjoynature, thanks to some industrious folkson base.

The 934th Civil Engineering Squadroncompleted the Minnesota River Picnic AreaProject during the July 2005 unit trainingassembly.

“It was a program that ColonelMuscatell wanted for Morale Welfare andRecreation purposes, and to provide wingmembers with a gathering place,” saidMaster Sgt. Patrick Smith, 934th CES heavyequipment operator.

Wing civil engineers broke ground,constructed a concrete platform with aterraced brick facing, and built two picnictables at a site in Minneapolis along theMinnesota River next to the 934th AWFiring Range and Fort Snelling State Park.

“It’s close to the base and there’s

nature and wildlife there by the river, so itprovides a relaxed atmosphere for basepersonnel,” said Senior Master Sgt. SteveNicolai, 934th CES equipment operator.

The project also provided a goodtraining opportunity for some of the CESpavement and equipment departmentworkers.

“It gave us a chance to break ground,build a wall and use artistic interpretation toblend it into the existing and surroundingenvironment,” said Sergeant Smith.

The base civilengineers brought infill-in dirt and usedextra block fromanother project. Theyhad to purchase therest of the materials,added Sergeant Smith.

The project cost$4,300 to build andwas funded locally,said Master Sgt. JohnKline, 934th CES

readiness officer.The site and project was designed by

Staff Sgt. James Hocum, 934th CESequipment operator.

The existing site is one of three picnicareas Colonel Muscatell wants built,depending on available funding, saidSergeant Smith. The other sites would bebuilt along the same road to the north ofthe current site.

The River Picnic Area is open duringnormal Fort Snelling State Park hours.

Wing creates picnic area for park, members

students.“It doesn’t matter if

students try and fail or get lostin the success of it all,” saidAirman Savage. “It’s their abilityto try new things. And if theytry new things in P.E., theymight try new things in life,hopefully positive things. Theimpact is the kids. It’s theirhearts, it’s their brains, it’s theirself-esteems. The impact ismaking each kid realize his orher potential and being able tohelp move them along to it.”

By helping his studentsreach their potentials, AirmanSavage is also serving a veryimportant role as a mentor andrealizing his instructor potentialas an R.J. McElroy TrustFoundation 2005 Gold StarTeacher of the Year Awardwinner.

“It’s validation for thehard work you’re doing,” saidAirman Savage. “I just thoughtit was a great honor to benominated.”

Story and photo by SeniorAirman Curtis HoldenStaff Writer

13Calendar

SergeantS Upp & adamSergeantS Upp & adamSergeantS Upp & adamSergeantS Upp & adamSergeantS Upp & adam

By Senior Master Sgt. Doug Johnson

RetirementsChief Master Sgt. Gary SmithAug. 13 @ 3 p.m.Call Master Sgt. Steven Orwig atext. 1535.

Master Sgt. Rick KlickAug. 13 @ 3 p.m. at Bldg. 821Call Master Sgt. Vicky Kuntz atext. 1443.

Master Sgt. Steve PittmanAug. 13 @ 3 p.m. at Bldg. 821Call Senior Master Sgt. LonnieGillespie at ext. 1323.

AUGUST 2005

14

VIKING FLYER

Viking VibesViking VibesViking VibesViking VibesViking VibesOfficers clubThe 934th AW Civilian

Welfare Committee issponsoring the Post RoadFlea Market every Saturdayfrom 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at theFt. Snelling Officers Club. Theevent will be held throughLabor Day. Vendor space isavailable for $10. Volunteersare also needed to help.

For more information,call (612) 713-1402 or (612)408-2737.

Spouses’ clubTo join the Officers’

Spouses’ Club, call Lee Claar at(952) 831-5252.

LodgingThe North Country

Lodge’s Business Center, lo-cated in the East MeetingRoom, is now open. It was es-tablished for guests to usewhile staying at base lodging.

The center provides a com-puter, printer, fax machine, tele-phone, 32-inch TV with VCRand conference tables. Guestscan use the Internet and checktheir e-mail at no cost.

Local faxes are free. Long-distance faxes are assessed acharge through lodging’s tele-phone carrier. Charges will beposted to the guests’s portfo-lio. Use of the copy machinecosts 10 cents per copy.

For more information, calllodging at (612) 713-1983.

RecreationBanquet tables, chairs, a

chocolate fountain and otherparty essentials, hiking andcamping equipment, gas pow-ered washers, and a utility trailer

are available for rent at OutdoorRecreation. All club membersreceive a 10-percent discount.

Call (612) 713-1496.

BirthdayAll club members receive a

$15 certificate to celebrate theirbirthday at the base clubs.

The offer is valid only onthe month of the member’sbirthday.

Call the Services Club at(612) 713-1655 or the Officers’Club at (612) 713-3678.

Tae Kwon DoThe fitness center offers

Tae Kwon Do classes from 11a.m. to noon Tuesdays andThursdays.

The cost is $80 per personeach month or $136 for a fam-ily of two or more. A free uni-form is included.

Call the fitness center at(612) 713-1496 for more details.

ESGRThe Employer Support of

the Guard and Reserve’s Website has been updated.

To better serve Web sitevisitors, changes have beenmade to the reports section,state policies section, and thebasic and advanced employer re-lations section.

Pre- and demobilizationbriefings have also been added.

Visit the ESGR Web siteat www.esgr.com.

RetireesRetiree Appreciation Day is

Sept. 17.To show its appreciation to

retired military members,SatoTravel will offer retirees the

Briefs

Courtesy of Master Sgt. Russ Funaro934th Airlift Wing historian

FlyingFlyingFlyingFlyingFlyingVikingsVikingsVikingsVikingsVikingshistoryhistoryhistoryhistoryhistory

This month in Viking history

opportunity to register for achance to win one of threeprizes: $100 rental car vouchers,a hotel voucher at the FloridaMall Hotel in Orlando, Fla., anda Hawaiian vacation for two.

Only retired U.S. militarymembers are eligible to registerfor these prizes.

No purchase or other con-sideration is necessary to enteror win.

For more information, callSatoTravel at (877) 304-8456.

Military BallThe event will be held

September 10th at theNorthland Inn in BrooklynPark, Minn.

Dress for militarypersonnel will be mess dress.Civilians dress in formal attire.

Ticket costs are $50 forcivilians, ranks 0-3 and

above and E-7 and above,$50.00 for non-military baseemployees. Lieutenants, E-5’sand E-6’s are $35.00 Prices forE-4’s and below are $20.00

See your First Sergeantfor tickets.

Family Day

1975President Gerald

Ford made a visit to the basewhile in town to address thenational American Legionconvention.

Family Day will be heldon Sunday, September 11th

from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.Unit members are

encouraged to bring the wholefamily. There will be food andlots of fun and games for thekids.

Meal tickets will beavailable for $3 for non-military members.

Liason NeededThe United States Air

Force Academy and Air ForceReserve Officer TrainingCorps Admissions LiasonOfficer Program has openingsin Northern and SouthernMinnesota, as well as theMinneapolis-St. Paul Metroarea.

The program is open toAir National Guard and AirForce Reserve officers as eithera primary or additional dutyassignment for those who arewilling to work as representa-tives for the USAFA andAFROTC programs.

Anyone interested shouldcontact Lt. Col. Jim Tuitt byphone at 952-403-1560 or e-mail at jrtuitt@mchsi.com.

Special 15

“Leave a Legacy” Contest“If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up someplace else.”

- Yogi Berra, Baseball Hall of Fame

Col. James Muscatell Jr., 934th Airlift Wing commander, believes the wing mission statement needsrevision. He would like to revise it and establish new goals for the wing, and is encouraging everyone to

participate in the “Leave a Legacy” contest.Through this contest, entrants can submit ideas for a wing mission statement or two or three goal

statements. If your mission statement and/or goals are selected, not only will you receive a prize, but moreimportantly, you will leave your fingerprint on the wing- a legacy.

Rules of engagement:* Mission statements should articulate the day-to-day mission of the wing.* Characterize who we are, our business and how we get it done.* Goals should be where we want to be five to10 years down the road.* Goals should focus on what really matters.* Be brief and creative. Keep it short and to the point.* Distinguish the 934th AW as a unique, outstanding wing. Make it easy to remember.* If entrants use other wing’s mission statements for guidance, the source must be provided.* Entrants can submit just the mission statement, just the goal statements or both.* All entries must be sent to Maj. C.J. Lupo by e-mail to cj.lupo@minneapolis.af.mil by Sunday of theSeptember UTA.* “Leave a Legacy” winners will be announced during the October UTA.

E-mail submission should include:* Mission statement and/or identify two or three long-term goals, separate from mission statement* Your full name, rank, unit, shop function and phone number

934th AW’s current mission statement:Provides command, control and operational guidance for an eight primary assigned aircraft C-130

squadron and associated support functions. The wing operates an Air Force Reserve Station. Directs tacticalairlift operations in the worldwide theater. Functions include command and control, operations, finance, safetyand information.

Examples of other mission statements:Youngstown Air Reserve Station:

To support national objectives by providing mission-ready C-130 airlift forces with accompanyingexpeditionary combat forces to a combatant commander. To provide a state-of-the-art C-130 aerial spraycapability that is responsive, flexible, and highly effective. To provide a premier air reserve station with modernfacilities to support the wing’s mission and a variety of joint service tenants.

McGuire Air Force Base Operations Group:Fueling, Hauling, Healing, Defending Freedom

For more information, call Maj. C. J. Lupo at (612) 713- 1560 or 1st Lt. Julie Hamiel at (612) 713-1202.

AUGUST 2005

16

934th Airlift WingPublic Affairs Office760 Military HighwayMinneapolis, MN 55450-2100

PRST STANDARDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDHelmer Printing

To the family of:

Bicycling - Riding Vikings Bicycle ClubJoin the bicycle club. Call Ronna Puck at (612) 713-1665 or Lt. Col. CarolynLohman at (612) 713-1446 to sign up.

Discount tickets/couponsTo purchase tickets for Camp Snoopy, Underwater Adventures, Minnesota Zoo,Minnesota Children’s Museum, Chanhassen Dinner Theater and the RenaissanceFestival, call the fitness center at (612) 713-1496.Discount cards for the zoo and IMAX theater are also available.Underwater Adventures tickets cost $9.50 for adults and $5.50 for children.

Fit to Fight - Ready to Win fitness programParticipate in UTA fitness activities for incentive awards.For more information, call the fitness center at (612) 713-1496.

Fitness center hours5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays8 a.m. to 4 p.m. SundaysClosed on federal holidays

TravelArmed Forces Vacation Club offers time share units. Cost is $264 per week.Go to www.afvclub.com.Air Force Travel - www.aftravelonline.comColorado R&R USAF Academy travel - www.coloradorandr.comShades of Green Resort, Disney World - www.armymwr.com

Hog RoastPresented by the Fort Snelling Flower& Garden ClubAug. 16 at the Officers’ ClubSocial 5 p.m.Dinner 6 p.m.Menu: Hot sliced roast hog (freshlyprepared that day)Fresh corn, sauerkraut, potato salad,apple sauce and rollsDozens of door prizes!Price: $15 per personProceeds support various charities thathelp military members.Purchase tickets from the Flower &Garden Club or at the Officers’ Clubbar.For more information, call TrudyeBremner at (952) 941-3527.