Best Friends
2Lt. David E. Hernandez (Civilian Missionary) 2Lt. Jeremiah Boenisch (Now Major) SSgt Kent Tadlock (Now MSgt/Retired)
Best Moment
1st - When the doctor said my son would be alright! 2nd -My retirement ceremony!
Worst Moment
When my oldest son fell out of a tree at White Sands Missile Range and ruptured his spleen! I followed the ambulance from WSMR to El Paso, TX by myself the whole 80 mile trip. He survived and is now a Deputy Sheriff in Brevard County, Florida.
Chain of Command
Supervisor - 2Lt. Hernandez, 1Lt. Boenisch, and finally Capt Martin K. Schlacter until I retired. Commander - Major Armand D. Boudreau, Jr. 49 Support Group CC, Lt Col David G. Curdy
Other Memories
Wednesday morning breakfasts with the commander - Maj B provided the food for the whole senior staff. We worked a plane crash in the backfields of Holloman AFB. A German flown Toronado crashed - Fliers ejected and survived without injury. We won the Air Combat Command Small Unit Maintenance Award before I retired.
Criteria The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a... The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a degree that would warrant the award of the Legion of Merit. MoreHide
Comments
Accomplishments and Contributions during service as Maintenance Superintendent for the 49th Communications Squadron at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster
Criteria It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Long... It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Longevity Service Award is a ribbon that replaces the Federal Service Stripes previously worn on the uniform. MoreHide
Comments
Completion of Years 16 through 20. (4th Oakleaf Cluster)
Criteria The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospital... The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and medical centers (whether or not they are numbered) for exceptionally meritorious service or exceptionally outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. Heroism may be involved, but is not essential. MoreHide
Description
49th Comm Squadron's Outstanding performance and accomplishments during fiscal year 1997. (3rd Oakleaf Cluster)
Criteria
The NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon is awarded for successful completion of all levels of resident professional military education.
Comments
Class 97-B, Air Force Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy, In-Residence Course, Gunther AFB, Alabama Graduation: 26 Feb 1997
Worst Moment
Orders for 90-day stint in the desert away from family
Chain of Command
(1) Major Tom Leyhman (2) Major John R. Russell - SCX Lt Col Robert D. Brown - SC (1st) Lt Gen Stephen B. Croker - CC (2nd) Lt Gen Phillip J. Ford - CC
Criteria The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a... The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a degree that would warrant the award of the Legion of Merit. MoreHide
Comments
1st Oak Leaf Cluster. Will update when I locate my official certificates.
Description Operation Southern Watch was an air-centric military operation conducted by the United States Department of Defense from Summer 1992 to Spring 2003.
United States Central Command's Joint Task Force SOperation Southern Watch was an air-centric military operation conducted by the United States Department of Defense from Summer 1992 to Spring 2003.
United States Central Command's Joint Task Force Southwest Asia (JTF-SWA) had the mission of monitoring and controlling the airspace south of the 32nd Parallel (extended to the 33rd Parallel in 1996) in southern and south-central Iraq during the period following the end of the 1991 Gulf War until the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
Operation Southern Watch began on 27 August 1992 with the stated purpose of ensuring Iraqi compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 688 (UNSCR 688) of 5 April 1991, which demanded that Iraq "immediately end this repression and express the hope in the same context that an open dialogue will take place to ensure that the human and political rights of all Iraqi citizens are respected." Nothing in the resolution spelled out the Iraqi no-fly zones or Operation Southern Watch.
Iraqi bombing and strafing attacks against the Shi’ite Muslims in Southern Iraq during the remainder of 1991 and during 1992 indicated Saddam Hussein chose not to comply with the resolution. Forces from Saudi Arabia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France participated in Operation Southern Watch. The commander of JTF-SWA, an aeronautically rated United States Air Force (USAF) Major General, assisted by an aeronautically designated United States Navy (USN) Rear Admiral, reported directly to the Commander, United States Central Command (USCENTCOM).
Military engagements in Southern Watch occurred with regularity, with Coalition aircraft routinely being shot at by Iraqi air defense forces, though they were usually only reported in the Western press occasionally. An intensification was noted prior to the 2003 invasion of Iraq, though it was said at the time to just be in response to increasing activity by Iraqi air-defense forces. It is now known that this increased activity occurred during an operation known as Operation Southern Focus.... More
People You Remember
Worked Communications Reporting to the Commander, JTF-SWA
Memories Long drives from lodging location to the work site for 12-hour shifts. Was notified on my second day Long drives from lodging location to the work site for 12-hour shifts. Was notified on my second day in Saudi Arabia that I was selected for SMSgt promotion.... More
Best Moment
AF Achievement medal from Gen. Croaker for pulling off a multi-state, secure voice net in a few days instead of a few weeks.
Worst Moment
On the 2nd day of a 90 day tour of duty in Riyahd, Saudi Arabia, a Colonel I didn't know informed me I made Senior and presented me with SMSgt stripes. I would not be able to enjoy the excitement of the promotion with my family and friends until 3 months later.
Chain of Command
Maj John Russell, Supervisor Lt. Col. Robert Brown, Commander Lt. Gen Stephen B. Croaker, 8AF CC
Other Memories
Received an Expeditionary Medal for the accomplishments while assigned to the JTF/SWA at Riyahd. Loved working as the Communications guy for the 8th Air Force CC when he wore his Joint Task Force - Bomber hat. This was an awesome assignment for me and big boost to my career.
Best Moment
The day I left to head back to Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana.
Worst Moment
2nd Day - given my SMSgt promotion notice by a Col I had never met while surrounded by strangers who would become my teammates for 90 days
Other Memories
The AN/TSC-94 from earlier in my career was set up and operating right next door to my work location. Was cool to see it again. Germany has really green trees and grass after leaving the brown desert of Saudi Arabia.
Criteria The Air Force Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States (and to foreign military personnel) below the grade of colonel who, while serving in any capacity wit... The Air Force Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States (and to foreign military personnel) below the grade of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service but not to the extent that would warrant the award of a Commendation Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Natio... The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Nations or friendly foreign nations MoreHide
Comments
Operation Southern Watch for 90 days in 1985
Criteria It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Long... It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Longevity Service Award is a ribbon that replaces the Federal Service Stripes previously worn on the uniform. MoreHide
Comments
Completion of Years 13 through 16. (3rd Oak Leaf Cluster)
Best Friends
SMSgt Aaron J. Gromley, USAF Retired MSgt Timothy Hurd, USAF Retired CMSgt Stephen P. Mazurek, USAF Retired
Best Moment
Won Falcon AFB Senior NCO of the Year - 1992
Worst Moment
War started in Iraq and my mission required me to remain in Colorado
Chain of Command
SMSgt Aaron J. Gromley - 50 MS Superintendent Lt. Col Michael D. Acres - 50 MS Commander Lt Col Lynn J. Willadsen - 50 LG / CC Brig Gen Roger DeKok - 50th Space Wing CC
Other Memories
Enjoyed a year as Top-3 president Graduated with CCAF Degree As NCOIC of the dual satellite terminals I experienced working with the best of the best Air Force comm team ever. TSgt Mike Buike, TSgt Rob Brandt, SSgt "Jonesy" Jones, and all the other 50+ members of the team made my career a success. SMSgt Gromley was an awesome supervisor and a great friend today. Col Akers was one of the best Commanders I ever worked for.
Best Friends
Aaron J. Gromley Mike Buike Robert Brant Jonesy
Best Moment
My Dad, Retired U.S.Army E-7, pinned my MSgt Stripes on me for my promotion ceremony. He wore the Army dress uniform that he retired in back in 1974
Worst Moment
TSgt Buike (should have made MSgt) was mistakenly told he was on the list for MSgt on his very last opportunity. When the truth came out - he was visibly disturbed and I will never forget that look on his face.
Chain of Command
50MS: SMSgt Aaron J. Gromley - Supervisor Lt.Col. Mike Acres - Commander 50LG: Col. Roman Synchek - Commander Brig Gen Roger DeCok- Wing CC
Other Memories
Rocky Mountains! Garden of the Gods! The Royal Gorge! The Sand Dunes! Coors Factory! Cheyenne Mountain!
Criteria The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a... The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a degree that would warrant the award of the Legion of Merit. MoreHide
Comments
Meritorious service as a MSgt assigned to 1879th CG and 50th MS, Falcon Air Force Base, Colorado, from 21 Sep 1990 to 8 December 1993. (1st Award)
Description The Gulf War (2 August 1990 – 28 February 1991), codenamed Operation Desert Shield (2 August 1990 – 17 January 1991), for operations leading to the buildup of troops and defense of Saudi Arabia and OpThe Gulf War (2 August 1990 – 28 February 1991), codenamed Operation Desert Shield (2 August 1990 – 17 January 1991), for operations leading to the buildup of troops and defense of Saudi Arabia and Operation Desert Storm (17 January 1991 – 28 February 1991) in its combat phase, was a war waged by coalition forces from 34 nations led by the United States against Iraq in response to Iraq's invasion and annexation of Kuwait.
The war is also known under other names, such as the Persian Gulf War, First Gulf War, Gulf War I, Kuwait War, First Iraq War, or Iraq War before the term "Iraq War" became identified instead with the 2003 Iraq War (also referred to in the U.S. as "Operation Iraqi Freedom"). The Iraqi Army's occupation of Kuwait that began 2 August 1990 was met with international condemnation, and brought immediate economic sanctions against Iraq by members of the U.N. Security Council. U.S. President George H. W. Bush deployed U.S. forces into Saudi Arabia, and urged other countries to send their own forces to the scene. An array of nations joined the Coalition, the largest military alliance since World War II. The great majority of the Coalition's military forces were from the U.S., with Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom and Egypt as leading contributors, in that order. Saudi Arabia paid around US$36 billion of the US$60 billion cost.
The war was marked by the introduction of live news broadcasts from the front lines of the battle, principally by the U.S. network CNN. The war has also earned the nickname Video Game War after the daily broadcast of images from cameras on board U.S. bombers during Operation Desert Storm.
The initial conflict to expel Iraqi troops from Kuwait began with an aerial and naval bombardment on 17 January 1991, continuing for five weeks. This was followed by a ground assault on 24 February. This was a decisive victory for the Coalition forces, who liberated Kuwait and advanced into Iraqi territory. The Coalition ceased its advance, and declared a cease-fire 100 hours after the ground campaign started. Aerial and ground combat was confined to Iraq, Kuwait, and areas on Saudi Arabia's border. Iraq launched Scud missiles against Coalition military targets in Saudi Arabia and against Israel.... More
People You Remember SMSgt Aaron Gromley MSgt Timothy Hurd MSgt Duane Lotharius TSgt Robert Brant TSgt Mike Buike and about 55SMSgt Aaron Gromley MSgt Timothy Hurd MSgt Duane Lotharius TSgt Robert Brant TSgt Mike Buike and about 55 others... More
Memories We manned the primary Satellite Communications hub for AF Space Command during the war. Our wartimeWe manned the primary Satellite Communications hub for AF Space Command during the war. Our wartime mission was to keep our dual terminal hub on the air 24/7. It was a rewarding experience, but we were not invited to travel to the war zone as our wartime assignments were located at Falcon Air Force Base, Colorado.... More
Criteria The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distingu... The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not of a sufficient nature to justify a higher award. MoreHide
Comments
(Second Oakleaf Cluster) MSgt assigned to Detachment 2, 2003d Communications Group at Pirinclik Air Station, Turkey from 11 Dec 1989 to 1 Sep 1990
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Comments
Active Duty during period Aug 1990 to 1995
Criteria It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Long... It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Longevity Service Award is a ribbon that replaces the Federal Service Stripes previously worn on the uniform. MoreHide
Comments
Completion of Years 9 through 12. (2nd Oak Leaf Cluster).
Best Friends
Dennis & Trudy Winders Mike & Tracy Shirden Frank Nestick Ed & Wendy Johnson
Best Moment
My second son, Kevin Alexander was born at the Barksdale AFB hospital on April 19, 1989
Worst Moment
Notification of remote tour to Korea - canx, then 2nd notice to Korea - again, canx, then notification of remote tour to Diyarbakir, Turkey. My son was 6 months old and I had to leave for a year.
Chain of Command
We were OL-AA NCOIC - TSgt Dennis Winders Superintendent - MSgt Mike Williams CMSgt Wison Capt Sammual A. Maggio 46 CG CC was Col Kirby
Other Memories
Re-aquainted with A1C Melanie Rood, now SSgt Melanie Boyd - married to SSgt Boyd from the Satcom shop. Brian Vanderkoi was a crazy dude iin those days - freezing rattlesnake in the freezer for the unit picnic/cookout, etc. They got a Duce-and-a-half stuck to the axles in the Louisiana red clay/mud out on the east side of the base in the woods. had to get Red Horse to pull it out for us with a tank retriever.
Criteria The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distingu... The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not of a sufficient nature to justify a higher award. MoreHide
Comments
(1st Oakleaf Cluster) As TSgt while assigned to Det 1, 46 CG at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana from 13 Feb 1987 to 18 Sep 1989. Was presented by my Commander at Pirinclik Air Station, Turkey
Criteria The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospital... The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and medical centers (whether or not they are numbered) for exceptionally meritorious service or exceptionally outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. Heroism may be involved, but is not essential. MoreHide
Criteria
The NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon is awarded for successful completion of all levels of resident professional military education.
Comments
Stategic Air Command NCO Academy - Barksdale Air Force Base, LA Distinguished Graduate March 19, 1989 CMSgt Gary L. Ulman, Commandant
Criteria The United States Air Force awards a single ribbon, known as the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, for an expert qualification on either the M-16 rifle, M-4 carbine or the individuals AFSC's (dut... The United States Air Force awards a single ribbon, known as the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, for an expert qualification on either the M-16 rifle, M-4 carbine or the individuals AFSC's (duty) designated handgun weapon. The ribbon is issued in only one degree; however, a bronze service star may be worn on the ribbon for those who have qualified expert on both the service rifle and handgun. MoreHide
Comments
"Expert" qualification with 38 Revolver (1st Bronze Device)
Criteria The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distingu... The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not of a sufficient nature to justify a higher award. MoreHide
Comments
While a SSgt assigned to Detachment 1, Space Communications Division, Kapaun Air Station, Germany from 24 Jan 84 to 23 Jan 87.
Criteria
The Air Force Overseas Long Tour Service Ribbon is issued for completion of a standard overseas service assignment of two years or more in length
Best Friends
William A. Gates Ray & Pam Boatwright Bill Bokenoogen and his wife Steve & Joyce Mazurek Karen (Monteleone) Kilpatrick Mike Viator Duane Lotharius Robert Robbins
Best Moment
(1) First son,Joseph Nelson, born 9 October 1984 while I was TDY to Virginia and my wife was back home in Florida. (2) Line Number for TSgt while "In-Laws" were visiting with us for a European Vacation!
Worst Moment
I made a huge mistake that cost me a good friend and threw a shadow on my reputation with my commander.
Chain of Command
(1) NCOIC - TSgt Ray Boatwright Superintendent - MSgt Bill Gates CC - Capt Laurie Sue Slavec (2) NCOIC - TSgt Ray Boatwright Superintendent - SMSgt Bill Gates CC - Capt Jeffrey C. Brown
Other Memories
NCO Leadership School at Rhein-Main AB in Frankfurt, Germany. Terrorist attack at Rhein-Main while I was there. Aced the AFCC Electronic Warfare test - first to do so. Did a tour as QC for the shop. Went to Harry Diamond Laboratory for a 6-month TDY to test the AN/GSC-49's ability to withstand EMP. Virginia is cold in January
Criteria It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Long... It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Longevity Service Award is a ribbon that replaces the Federal Service Stripes previously worn on the uniform. MoreHide
Comments
Completion of Years 5 through 8. (1st Oak Leaf Cluster)
Criteria
The Air Force Good Conduct Medal has been awarded for qualifying service from May 31, 1963 to the present.
Comments
Good Conduct during service years 6 through 8 (Basic Award. Article 15 trouble prevented previous award. This was first award with clean record.)
Criteria
The NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon is awarded for successful completion of all levels of resident professional military education.
Comments
21st Air Force NCO Leadership School at Rhein-Main Air Base, Germany Class 85-H, Distinguished Graduate - 7 Aug 1985 SMSgt Lloyd L. Wilson, Commandant
Best Friends
Sgt Christopher A. White (Wife Teresa) SrA Thomas Jones (Roommate) Sgt Robert Leath (Wife Sue) Sgt George Cercone Sgt Jeffrey Hutchings (Wife: Enrika)
Best Moment
I married my wife of 28 years at the Patrick AFB Chapel 2 in the South Housing Area on March 31, 1983
Worst Moment
6 month TDY to a classified remote location referred to as "Site Mike" - an all too familiar place. Got my second Article 15 while there for - you got it - wrecking a government vehicle. This time it was a special purpose vehicle (A dodge pickup with dual rear wheels and a 440, 4-barrell! Got me in trouble, even though I can still tell you that I dodged a fox crossing the intersection, and that's the truth!
Chain of Command
SSgt E. Ray Boatwright (Boat) - Supervisor MSgt Ray Lavadia - NCOIC COM - Major William T. Holmes Commander - Col Nelson R. Hamilton and Col Robert G. Paillex
Other Memories
SSgt Grady Ballentine - a great NCO and teammate! Trips to New Jersey (1) to RCA for the AN/TSC-100 timed test and (2) to Fort Monmouth for a Tech Order verification. TDY to Fort Fischer, North Carolina (right near Fort Bragg) where my new bride came to visit! This was the test of the new DSCS III satellite involving the GMF mobile terminals. Funny story when one of our teammates held off the security police at his base house by declaring he had a nuclear weapon in his kitchen...he had to move out!
Criteria The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospital... The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and medical centers (whether or not they are numbered) for exceptionally meritorious service or exceptionally outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. Heroism may be involved, but is not essential. MoreHide
Criteria
The Combat Readiness Medal is awarded to military service members after August 1, 1960, for sustained individual combat or mission readiness or preparedness for direct weapon system employment.
Criteria It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Long... It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Longevity Service Award is a ribbon that replaces the Federal Service Stripes previously worn on the uniform. MoreHide
Comments
Completion of first 4 years of Air Force service, Feb 1978 through Feb 1982.
Best Friends
Ron Meier, Carmine Monaco, Jeff Hutchings, Rick Moreau, Eric Behring (roommate)
Best Moment
Off Duty - In 1980, I ran the sound board for an impromptu enlisted club concert with Harry Chapin! On Duty - TDY to Lisbon, Portugal with AN/TSC-94. System could not lock on the satellite signal. Figured out that we were on the outer edge of the satellite footprint - got DCMA to gimbal the satellite dish and we came up on the air with maximum signal strength!
Worst Moment
Wrecked a GOV outside of Espino Air Base, Portugal on my first TDY to Portugal. Earned me an Article 15, cost me a BTZ promotion to SrA (E-4), paid for the damages and an additional $100 fine. The deployed CC and CMSgt let me be the fall guy to avoid an international incident - ugly story.
Chain of Command
Sgt Robert L. Robbins - Supervisor TSgt Ralph George - NCOIC MSgt Marty Stempfel (?) - Superintendent
Other Memories
Spent 3 months at "Site Alpha", a classified location in the middle of nowhere. Was happy to leave that place behind! Worked Sound and lighting with Rick Moreau at the Army Rec Center for a production of the "Sound of Music". Had the best detail ever - escorted the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders for 3 days!
Criteria
The Combat Readiness Medal is awarded to military service members after August 1, 1960, for sustained individual combat or mission readiness or preparedness for direct weapon system employment.
Comments
Service with 1st Combat Communications Group (1CMBTCG) from March 1979 to February 1981. (1st Award - Basic Medal)
Criteria
The Air Force Overseas Long Tour Service Ribbon is issued for completion of a standard overseas service assignment of two years or more in length
Criteria The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospital... The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and medical centers (whether or not they are numbered) for exceptionally meritorious service or exceptionally outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. Heroism may be involved, but is not essential. MoreHide
Description
1st Combat Communications Group outstanding performance 1979 to 1980
Criteria The United States Air Force awards a single ribbon, known as the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, for an expert qualification on either the M-16 rifle, M-4 carbine or the individuals AFSC's (dut... The United States Air Force awards a single ribbon, known as the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, for an expert qualification on either the M-16 rifle, M-4 carbine or the individuals AFSC's (duty) designated handgun weapon. The ribbon is issued in only one degree; however, a bronze service star may be worn on the ribbon for those who have qualified expert on both the service rifle and handgun. MoreHide
Comments
"Expert" qualification with M-16 rifle. (1st Award)
Best Friends
Stuart Sercy Randy Heywood Steven Brandt Jeffrey Hutchings
Best Moment
The day I switched from FSC-78 School to GMF. this changed my PCS assignment from Sunnyvale AFS, CA to Wiesbaden, Germany!
Worst Moment
I had two checks bounce at the Post Exchange...my automatic deposit of Air Force Pay did not happen - this caused me some real grief with my First Sergeant
Chain of Command
Don"t remember any of it.
Other Memories
Weekend Pinocle games from Friday evening until Sunday evening! Crazy life in the dormitory! We drove to school while the poor Army students had to march. It was fun to be a "Zoomy". Steve got in trouble for "borrowing" the General's flag - it ended up in Germany
Best Moment
Got to play Senior Red Rope Student Leader (Gag thing we played on newby's) where I wore a white helmet, Red Lt. Bars, Red Rope, ascot - the works. (See photos) We yelled and screamed at newby's and had them cleaning floors with toothbrushes. Finally asked them in a screaming voice, "Do think this is some kind of a joke? - pause for effect - It is! Welcome to the 3413th! We had a great laugh and the guys were good sports!
Worst Moment
Volunteered for a Detail during morning formation. Forgot to shave, so when I was called up front, I was in deep "doo-doo". Got a week of extra duty cleaning our bay floor.
Chain of Command
Can't remember the names as I wasn't there very long. I do remember that our commander was a Captain and he owned a beautiful, mint-condition corvette convertible from the pre-fiberglass years. He wrecked it! Sad loss of a great vehicle.
Other Memories
After my detail, I was selected to go to "Rope" school to become a student leader. I ended up skipping over the "Green" rope and going straight to "Yellow" where I had the whole floor. A few weeks later I was honored when they selected me to be the Red Rope and March the Squadron to School each day! That was fun!
Best Friends
J. Cropsey, J. Macy, J. Martie, and E. Bell. We had fun together - but sadly did not keep in touch after basic training.
Best Moment
When the flight voted to send my poem forward as the flight poem for graduation. I had fun writing it.
Worst Moment
Someone sabotaged my locker by unbuttoning shirt sleeves just prior to inspection.
Instructors
Sgt Carter TSgt Hall (Dr. Death)
Other Memories
Danny Pulce, an avid body builder, could handle a heavy mop in one hand and the big buffer in the other. He left on an early out for a family problem.
Criteria The Air Force Training Ribbon is awarded to Air Force members on completing an Air Force accession training program (i.e., Basic Military Training; Officer Training School; ROTC; Air Force Academy; or... The Air Force Training Ribbon is awarded to Air Force members on completing an Air Force accession training program (i.e., Basic Military Training; Officer Training School; ROTC; Air Force Academy; or Medical Services, Judge Advocate, or Chaplain orientation courses). MoreHide
Comments
Completion of Air Force Basic Training in April 1978 at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.
2Lt. David E. Hernandez (Civilian Missionary)
2Lt. Jeremiah Boenisch (Now Major)
SSgt Kent Tadlock (Now MSgt/Retired)
1st - When the doctor said my son would be alright!
2nd -My retirement ceremony!
When my oldest son fell out of a tree at White Sands Missile Range and ruptured his spleen! I followed the ambulance from WSMR to El Paso, TX by myself the whole 80 mile trip. He survived and is now a Deputy Sheriff in Brevard County, Florida.
Supervisor - 2Lt. Hernandez, 1Lt. Boenisch, and finally Capt Martin K. Schlacter until I retired.
Commander - Major Armand D. Boudreau, Jr.
49 Support Group CC, Lt Col David G. Curdy
Wednesday morning breakfasts with the commander - Maj B provided the food for the whole senior staff. We worked a plane crash in the backfields of Holloman AFB. A German flown Toronado crashed - Fliers ejected and survived without injury. We won the Air Combat Command Small Unit Maintenance Award before I retired.