San Diego Cadet Squadron 144

March AirFest 2008

2008-05-04T22:55:00.000-07:00

F-22 Raptor & P-51 Mustang fly a “Heritage Flight” at March AirFest, photo by Cadet Sponsor Mack McFarland

The following San Diego Cadet Squadron 144 personnel attended March AirFest:

Senior Members
LtCol Elbert McDowell
Maj Dennis Ammann
Capt David Saavedra
1Lt Christopher Natwick
2Lt Jeffrey Cable
SM Michael Tam
Cadet Sponsor Heidi Olson
Cadet Sponsor Connie Duescher

Cadets
C/2Lt Joseph Connolly
C/2Lt Douglas Saavedra
C/2Lt Chandra Murphy
C/SSgt Brent Timm
C/SSgt Joseph Culver
C/SSgt Anthony Tavan
C/SrA Scott Lynch
C/A1c Caleb Duescher
C/A1c Emily Duescher
C/A1c Nathan Duescher
C/A1c Rebecca Olson
C/A1c Hanna Olson
C/A1c Nathan Scott
C/A1c Dominick Tavan
C/A1c Andrew Elsken
C/Amn Alexander Lange
C/Amn Jesse O’Keefe
C/Amn Matthew McFarland
C/AB Blake Hanslik

Every two years, March Air Reserve Base, Riverside, CA hosts the March AirFest Air Show which always features the USAF Aerial Demonstration Team, The Thunderbirds as the main attraction along with various civilian aerobatic acts, military air power, and the home airlift/aerial tanker demos. This was the first year our squadron participated, providing support for Civil Air Patrol (CAP) March Field Composite Squadron 45, Commanded by Capt Dave Goude.

Most of the Sq. 144 personnel arrived early Friday night and quickly checked in with Lt Eithne Doyle, Admin Officer Sq. 45 and settling in for the night in an old pre-WWII aircraft hangar. This air conditioned hangar added to the adventure of sleeping overnight on a USAF Base. The next morning, Saturday, 3 May, reveille sounded at 0600 hours and everyone got dressed and headed for breakfast. Two of our Cadet Sponsors, Heidi Olson and Connie Duescher assisted Lt Tom Olson as cooks, turning out breakfast and dinner for the CAP contingent (over 200 personnel).

After breakfast assignments were made with cadets helping to park cars (with senior member supervision) and air show program solicitation. The profits made from selling programs provided funds for food to support CAP and other expenditures. Any extra profits would be equally divided among the participating squadrons later. Most of the senior members were assigned at the three security gates as pre-screeners, assisting the USAF security personnel who were processing spectators through the metal detectors.

One of the fascinating security procedures performed at the entrance gates were the German Sheppard search dogs looking for contraband drugs and explosives. Some of the dogs were brought in by the Marine Base, 29 Palms, CA. These dogs were highly trained and during slow periods during the afternoon, the dog handlers would show us some of the commands the dogs were trained to respond to. All are trained using the German language for commands. One dog was sent out across the street to find a practice sample of ammonium nitrate, used for bomb making. The dog conducted a search pattern with his handler and quickly found it in the open field. Although these dogs are fearless and can take down a criminal suspect in seconds, we also saw them being petted by toddlers after completing a search of their respective baby strollers!

At about 1600 hours the air show ended and everyone returned to the CAP hangar to take showers at the base gymnasium and get ready to eat dinner. Hamburgers and hot dogs were on the menu with free time to play cards, make new friends, or become reacquainted for old CAP friends. At 2200 hours C/Maj Drew Barker played Amazing Grace on his bag pipes and everyone quickly went to sleep, exhausted from the first day.

Reveille on Sunday went down at 0530 hours with the bag pipes blaring in our sleepy ears, this time not so welcome. Everyone quickly got ready for the day and some of us proceeded to a building across the street for a nondenominational Christian worship service led by Chaplain Richard Nelson from Skyhawk Composite Squadron 47 (Oceanside, CA). His sermon was titled, “Can God?” concerning what God is and how He is always with us. We sang three praise songs and watched a five minute video titled, “King of Kings.” It seems like Chaplain Nelson is always present and available to conduct CAP church no matter where and when asked. After church we ate breakfast, received our work assignments, and headed off to work.

Sunday was a repeat of Saturday, only slightly cooler with more spectators in attendance. Again at 1600 hours we were released and I proceeded to the aircraft static displays. Some of the aircraft available for close up viewing were: Vietnam vintage: Russian made MiG-21 Fishbed fighter from Brown Field, CA; an A-1 Skyraider light attack bomber from Montgomery Field, CA; a WWII era C-45 Expeditor twin engine cargo plane from Gillespie Field, CA; front line fighters F-16 Falcon USAF fighter and a F/A-18 Hornet Navy carrier fighter/bomber; AH-1 Cobra Marine helicopter gunship; CH-46 Seaknight Marine medium lift helicopter; SH-60 Seahawk anti-submarine helicopter; C-17 Globemaster heavy lift cargo four engine jet; C-5 Galaxy heavy lift cargo four engine jet, and many others… I also stopped by the CAP recruiting booth, manned by Capt Elizabeth Goude who did a wonderful job fielding questions from the general public. Next to her booth was a brand new Cessna C-182 Skylane CAP aircraft with a glass cockpit sporting a Garmin G-1000 system. The instrument panel looked like the Space Shuttle’s cockpit! When I opened the door, the inside smelled like a brand new car! It appeared someone did a fine job washing and waxing the CAP bird. What a wonderful recruiting magnet for CAP.

As for the air show itself, each day it started out with: U.S. Army Golden Knights Precision Parachute Team; “Thunder Flight” with their four Czech made L-29 Dolphin jet formation demo team; Bill Reesman’s Russian made MiG-17 Fresco air demo; Rob Harrison’s ZLIN-50 aerobatic plane; Rob Harrison’s jet truck speeding down the runway; Canadian Skyhawks precision parachute team; U.S. Navy F/A-18 Hornet air demo; a heritage flight with a Navy WWII F4U Corsair and a Navy F/A-18 Hornet; John Collver performed in his Marine SNJ WWII advanced trainer; two WWII B-25 Mitchells flew past simulating a bombing run with pyrotechnics exploding below them; a California Dept of Forestry firefighting air tanker demonstrating a water drop along the runway; F-22 Raptor fighter air demo; KC-10 Extender tanker fly-by; another heritage flight with a F-22 Raptor and a WWII P-51 Mustang and P-40 Warhawk; the home base showed off their KC-135 Stratotanker and C-17 Globemaster; finally the Thunderbirds were last with their world class precision wing tip to wing tip formation flying (flying the F-16 Falcon).

With our work finished, everyone gathered in the hangar for a final brief by Capt Dave Goude and his incredible staff. They expressed their thanks for everyone’s hard work and cooperation and gave out many Sq. 45 challenge coins to various CAP staff members. Our two cadet sponsor master chefs, Connie and Heidi were presented coins and received a round of applause from the CAP contingent. One coin was given to a cadet who traveled all the way from Sacramento. All together, there were 156 cadets, 55 senior members representing 30 California Wing squadrons and two Nevada Wing squadrons! There were more cadets at this air show then last year’s encampment (CAP boot camp). What a wonderful job March Field Composite Squadron 45 did hosting this massive CAP support mission and instilling a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction in all of us.

The highlight of this briefing was from the USAF Chief Master Sergeant in charge of the security forces who praised CAP for their support stating they could not effectively do their job without our help. The 1st Sergeant from the U.S. Marine Security Detachment, 29 Palms Marine Base also expressed the same appreciation. This was our pay day, to hear the active duty forces express their thanks to us. We often wonder how we can help our military these days, well, this was just one small way.

Soon we were all on the freeway heading south for home at about 1830 hours looking forward to a hot shower and rest after a very long, tiring, but extremely rewarding weekend.

As Squadron Commander, I was very proud and touched by the hard work, dedication, and behavior of our personnel. Who could ask for a better group of CAP cadets and senior members?

Respectfully submitted,

Dennis S. Ammann, Major
Cmdr, SD Cadet Sq. 144

6th Annual Coastal Clean-up Day

2008-04-26T15:16:00.000-07:00

C2Lt Murphy helps with clean-up. SM Tam (L) & LtCol McDowell (R) in background

Community Service Trip Report

At 0745 hours, Saturday, 26 April 2008, the following personnel reported for transportation to help clean up San Diego Bay during the 6th Annual Coastal Clean-Up Day sponsored by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors:

Cadets
C/2Lt Chandra Murphy
Cadet Louis Diaz
Cadet Reece Coulter
Cadet Sean Coulter
Cadet Caleb Duescher
Cadet Nathan Duescher
Cadet Andrew Elsken

Senior Members
LtCol Elbert McDowell
Capt David Saavedra
SM Michael Tam
Cadet Sponsor Connie Duescher

At 0835 hours all personnel arrived at Chollas Creek, clean up site and were checked in by the event coordinator.

A safety brief began right away by National Steel and Shipbuilding Industrial Safety Engineer, Mr. Bart Deem, regarding how to handle unsafe materials encountered in the creek, when to alert designated individuals in the handling of hazardous materials if discovered, wear plenty of sun screen, and drink plenty of water provided by the sponsors.

Ms. Kaycee Christy then briefed the volunteers where to go throughout the site, what to look for, and where most of the debris can be found. After her brief, disposable heavy duty gloves, shovels, rakes, and pick up implements were distributed. The volunteers were led down into the creek where they began raking, removing litter, and pulling out discarded tires buried in the muck. All tires were successfully removed by an excellent show of CAP team work led by C/2Lt Murphy. At one point a partially buried shopping cart required the direction and knot tying abilities of Mr. Steven Murphy, father of Cadet Murphy and all the might of every CAP member to pull it out of several feet of thick mud. The “Tug-O-War” required two attempts and was successfully removed and unceremoniously discarded from the creek bed. Three tree stumps were also removed by this method and cleared as eye sores from the creek bed.

Other Squadron 144 members cleaned up litter along the railroad tracks along Harbor Boulevard to 28th Street, a round trip distance of two miles!

Short work was made of the clean up due in large part of this CAP squadron with the clean-up ending at 1030 hours.

After cleaning some of the muck off their clothes, the squadron headed to the San Diego County party and barbecue at Cesar Chavez Park about 1½ miles from the clean-up site where everyone enjoyed a hearty lunch, including cold drinks, and cake under the Coronado Bay Bridge. A concrete pier provided beautiful views of the bay and boat traffic passing by.

A raffle was next and each member in attendance won some sort of prize! Cadet Diaz won an Apple iStand.

The cadets played a makeshift game of football for the next hour providing a well deserved way to enjoy the rest of their time together. During this period, Ms. Christy and Mr. Hugo Bermudez, Coastal Clean-Up Captains, informed Capt Saavedra that they were impressed by how well behaved, efficient, and effective our “platoon” demonstrated themselves. They also stated that certificates for community service hours will be prepared and forwarded to the squadron for distribution. Capt Saavedra thanked them for their complements and observations. After what seemed like a long pause, they asked “where we landed our aircraft.”

At 1310 hours the activity secured and all personnel departed for home.

This is the second time we have cleaned up the bay with the San Diego County Port Authority. Accordingly, we have billed this as a non-CAP event and as such the cadets are eligible for the CAP Community Service Ribbon once they reach 60 hours of volunteer time. This type of event also instills camaraderie and teamwork. The ultimate reward is looking down Chollas Creek and seeing it free of debris and feeling a sense of accomplishment as a clean-up volunteer. Hopefully the cadets will add more hours to their respective “log books” and pin on this coveted CAP ribbon.

Any event like this could not happen without our usual parent and senior member drivers. Parents Steven Murphy and Marci Diaz not only drove; they also pitched in and helped clean up along with Michael Saavedra (a possible future cadet) who is the son of Capt Saavedra.

By Captain David Saavedra
Project Officer

SM Tam (left) & LtCol McDowell (right) pose with trash

Members of SD Cadet Sq. 144 cleaning up Chollas Creek

Iron Mountain Hike

2008-04-12T15:10:00.000-07:00

At 0730 hours, Saturday, 12 April 2008, the following personnel reported for the Iron Mountain hike at Highway 67 and Poway Road:

Cadets
C/2Lt Peter Kler
C/2Lt Joseph Connolly
C/2Lt Douglas Saavedra
C/2Lt Chandra Murphy
Cadet Joseph Culver
Cadet Caleb Duescher
Cadet Andrew Elsken
Cadet Hannah Olson
Cadet Emily Duescher
Cadet Daniel Gorin
Cadet Jesse O’Keefe
Cadet Patrick Culver
Cadet Reece Coulter
Cadet Rebecca Olson
Cadet Scott Lynch
Cadet Sean Coulter
Cadet Nathan Duescher
Cadet Spencer Beaulieu
Cadet Harrison Coyne
Cadet Nathan Blackburne

Senior Members
LtCol Ben Aaron
Capt David Saavedra
Lt Jeff Cable
Lt David MacGregor (Sq. 47)
Lt Russell Wesley
SM Michael Tam
Cadet Sponsor William McFarland

One month prior to this hike, 1Lt Russell Wesley met with C/2Lts Peter Kler and Joseph Connolly to plan this hike. After reviewing the options, Cadets Kler and Connolly scouted a few hiking trails and decided on the Iron Mountain trail as the best choice. Although this hike was planned as a social event, it was also designed to “weld” the squadron together.

At 0815 hours after Capt. David Saavedra gave the OK to Cadet Commander C/2Lt Kler to commence the hike. Cadet Kler began with a safety brief by informing the cadets about hydration, wildlife, trail hazards, and hiking techniques.

At 0820 hours all personnel moved out and began embarking on the trail led by C/2Lt Joseph Connolly with C/SSgt. Joseph Culver at the six o’clock position looking for possible stragglers and safety. The mountain trail was invigorating with the morning heat beating down on everyone already. The weather was summer like with the sky clear as a bell, a slight breeze kept the squadron somewhat cool. Upon reaching the summit, the crystal clear skies rewarded the hikers with some of the best vistas anywhere in Southern California. Snacks and water were distributed while the squadron rested prior to descending.

With everyone attired in black T-shirts, BDU pants, light back packs, canteens and/or camel backs, and a “sea” of Squadron 144 covers, many civilians along the trail were heard to exclaim, “What is a 144?” Some of the cadets had an opportunity to proudly proclaim their explanation to these fellow hikers and inform them about America’s best kept secret: The Civil Air Patrol.

Climbing down the mountain’s trail was quicker but slightly hotter as the sun rose higher in the sky. Tired feet, creaky bones, time disparagement, and physical endurance waned; the senior members continued their downward crawl admirably!

The cadets laughed and enjoyed hiking down the mountain while renewing and strengthening friendships along the way.

This six mile hike ended where it started, at the trail head at about 1100 hours. A quick head count was made with everyone present and accounted for.

Special thanks to 1Lt Russell Wesley for spearheading this event, and Cadet 2Lts Peter Kler and Joseph Connolly for scouting and selecting this trail. This has been the second hike for Squadron 144 with a third hopefully planned later this summer.

Respectfully submitted,

Captain David Saavedra

In Memory of former Cadet Second Lieutenant Bobby A. Coeur

2008-03-28T18:42:00.000-07:00

16 April 1989 – 15 March 2008

A memorial service was held at Grace Community Church, Ramona, CA at 1400 hours, Saturday, 22 March 2008 for former Cadet Second Lieutenant Bobby A. Coeur who was a member of San Diego Cadet Squadron 144. Bobby and two of his friends were involved in a fatal car accident on 15 March in which Bobby did not survive; although his two friends suffered injuries, they both survived. The service was led by the minister of Grace Community Church, Rev. Paul Nelson on a beautiful Saturday afternoon with clear skies and the sun warming the Ramona Valley.

Pastor Paul Nelson started the service with a prayer and told the people his staff planned for 200 in attendance. As the service began, extra chairs were being set up inside the sanctuary and outside in the courtyard, for a total of about 400 people were in attendance! This clearly indicated that Bobby had a lot of friends. The service continued with Bobby’s Uncle and Aunt from Michigan saying a few words about their life experiences with him. His parents Bob and Marolyn spoke about his life and Marolyn requested that his young friends look at Bobby’s life and let him “lead their lives” in a positive way. The minister spoke about Bobby and that he is in a much better place, i.e., in the presence of God. He also spoke of God’s salvation and everyone’s life journey citing many Bible scriptures bringing many of us comfort.

After Pastor Nelson completed his sermon, he opened up the rest of the service to those who desired to say a few words about Bobby. A total of 26 people stood up to speak, each one sincerely speaking from the heart. The overall summary of most was that Bobby was able to make people laugh and comfort them in their pain.

Maj Daryl Newton (former Sq. 144 Commander): “It is my honor to be included in this remembrance of a special young man. As I was recalling humorous moments among many memories of Bobby, it occurred to me that it was enough to say that, “I knew Bobby” and in the same moment how easy it is to take for granted the friendships and relationships that color daily life. I met Bobby and Marolyn in 2003 at a regular meeting of our squadron, as they considered membership-Bobby was eager and interested while Marolyn carefully weighed the time commitment (not to mention the one hour drive!). Bobby was another little guy who would soon wear an ill fitting Air Force uniform intended for a grown up. Many come… many go… and then a few get glued to your heart for your time spent with them and beyond.

Many of you knew Bobby better than I, but for my four years with him, I know these things: Bobby was honest; a Christian; had hairy legs; was fast; led by example which is not the main thing—it’s the ONLY thing in leadership; had a dry sense of humor; wanted to please; wasn’t afraid of work; was a patriot; will be missed.

I think he knew how I felt about him—we hadn’t spoken since the Fall of 2006. We’ll meet again. As a father, I wish I could say something meaningful to ease the pain for the immediate family here. God’s word seems the only suitable conclusion: Romans 8, the first chapter: Thee is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.”

C/2Lt Peter Kler (current Cadet Commander): "Bobby had a passion for three things in life – excellence, learning, and microwave popcorn. I can remember him reading through an encyclopedia to soak up the information, and I can remember how protective he was of his popcorn. On behalf of his friends here, I would like to say goodbye to our friend, brother, and comrade."

C/2Lt Joseph Connolly (former Cadet Commander): "Bobby Coeur was one of the most dedicated people I have ever known. When he lived in Rancho Peñasquitos, he had about a 20 minute drive to the CAP meetings. Once he moved to Ramona, it became an hour long drive - one way! This would have been a perfect excuse to quit, but he kept coming. He wouldn't have as much time to prepare because of the long commute, so he'd come and Peter Kler and I would notice that his hair would be out of regulation. So we'd scramble and find whatever dull knife or sewing scissors we could find and tear out, then cut off his hair. That's the level of dedication he had."

C/2Lt Chandra Murphy (former Bravo Flight Commander): "Shortly after I joined, C/Lt Coeur became Cadet Commander. He brought his own flare to meetings that no one else could. Many of you did not know him as an officer, but he was one of the most amazing officers I have ever met. He could be a tough officer when he had to be, but he could put that aside and be willing to help anyone, even an Airman Basic. I highly respected him."

Bobby’s life was filled with competitive activities, baseball being one of them, starting off very early in life as a left fielder and excellent batter. Once Bobby told one of his Palomar College baseball teammates that, “I’m going to hit a home run.” His friend told him go for it! When Bobby stepped up to the plate, he looked back at the dugout to his teammate and gave him a nod and blasted the ball over the fence for a homerun! The baseball coach stated that his shirt number 99 would be retired with no one assigned that number in the future.

He was home schooled from 6^th grade on through various Christian home study programs. On 1 June 2007 he graduated from Christian Life Academy High School along with eleven other students included our own squadron member C/2Lt Peter Kler. Bobby excelled in math and science and wanted to study chemical engineering in college. At the time of his untimely passing, he was a student at Palomar College and waiting for acceptance to Cal Poly CSU for the fall 2008 semester.

Bobby was also a Boy Scout and received his Eagle Scout badge in June 2007. This was quite a feat, juggling Boy Scouts and CAP. His Scout Master mentioned that when it was time for his first review board, his Boy Scout uniform was impeccable! There were no Irish pendants, shirt was tucked in, hair combed, etc. His review board went off flawlessly. His Scout Master attributed this to his CAP training and attention to detail!

At Stater Brothers Grocery Store, he started out as a courtesy clerk and was recently promoted to a position in the meat department. A fellow employee in the meat department mentioned that he was very friendly and fun to work with.

Bobby had a positive impact on each person he met. The stories of his compassion and helpfulness to others could fill pages upon pages of print. His parents completely supported CAP and had him dressed in his CAP uniform for the final viewing the night before this memorial service.

Pastor Nelson had to gently end the comments portion of the service as it was nearing 1600 hours. He gave the benediction and thanked all for attending. Lines formed to express sympathy to Mr. and Mrs. Coeur and their daughter Ariel. Refreshments and fellowship followed outside in the courtyard.

The CAP presence was represented by four squadrons: Cadet Sq. 3 in the San Fernando Valley (240 miles round trip); Skyhawk Composite Sq. 47 in Oceanside; Senior San Diego Sq. 57 in El Cajon; and his former squadron, San Diego Cadet Sq. 144. Personnel are listed as follows:

Captain Jay Weinsoff Cadet Squadron 3 (San Fernando Valley)

2Lt Zion Dungo

C/1Lt Elliott Dill

C/2Lt Sean Quigley

Skyhawk Composite Squadron 47 (Oceanside)

Chaplain (Capt) Richard Nelson

Maj John DiGiantomasso

C/CMSgt Kevin Harter

C/MSgt Kaila Reed

C/SSgt Michael Chung

C/SrA Joelah Bruccoleri

Senior San Diego Squadron 57 (El Cajon)

1Lt Shairrie Van Duzer

San Diego Cadet Squadron 144

LtCol Benjamin Aaron

LtCol Elbert McDowell

Maj Daryl Newton

Maj Dennis Ammann

Capt David Saavedra

1Lt Chris Natwick

Cadet Sponsor Heidi Olson

C/2Lt Peter Kler

C/2Lt Matthew Corey

C/2Lt Joseph Connolly

C/2Lt Douglas Saavedra

C/2Lt Chandra Murphy

C/SSgt Joe Culver

C/TSgt Alex Ramos

C/SSgt Brent Timm

C/SSgt Joshua Flewellen

C/TSgt Spencer Beaulieu

C/Amn Rebecca Olson

C/Amn Hanna Olson

C/Amn Emily Duescher

C/Amn Caleb Duescher

C/Amn Nathan Duescher

C/Amn Jesse O’Keefe

C/Amn Blake Hanslik

Former C/2Lt Bobby A. Coeur will be dearly missed by everyone who had the privilege of meeting and knowing him as his friend. Many thanks to all CAP personnel who attended this memorial service by supporting his family and showing respect to our fallen wingman.

Cadet Second Lieutenant Bobby A. Coeur

Civil Air Patrol (CAP), San Diego Cadet Squadron 144

February 2003 - January 2008

CAP TRAINING:

Basic Cadet School (highest test score) - Airman Training School (Honor Cadet) - Non-Commissioned Officer School (best speaking presentation) - Advanced Communication User Training Course - Wings Over Gillespie Air Show Staff (2004 & 2005) - BCS/ATS Staff (2004) - Calif. Wing Encampment (2005) - CPR/AED Certified (2005) - Air National Guard Field Training Exercise (2003, 2004 & 2005) - served as Flight Sgt, 1st Sgt, Flight Cmdr, & Cadet Commander - Cadet Advisory Council Rep to Group 7 - Wright Brothers Award (2005) - Billy Mitchell Award (2006).

OTHER COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES:

Boy Scouts of America (Eagle Scout) - Staff on Vacation Bible School - Lettered in Varsity Baseball - Sunday School teacher - 1^st Place in City-wide Schools Math Competition - Cleared & restored a trail for the San Diego County Parks Department - Courtesy Clerk, Stater Brothers Grocery Store

Civil Air Patrol, California Wing

2006 Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year Award

Cadet Second Lieutenant Bobby A. Coeur

C/2Lt Bobby A. Coeur joined Civil Air Patrol in February of 2003, and is 17 years old. During the period from January to December 2006, Cadet Coeur has met or exceeded the high standards established for Non-Commissioned Officers in the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program. His service to San Diego Cadet Squadron 144 has been exceptional and he has since been promoted to Cadet Second Lieutenant. Cadet Coeur possesses excellent military bearing, and is a patriotic Cadet. A bright future is surely ahead of him.

Cadet Coeur has served CAP with distinction, having been appointed last year as our Cadet Commander after earning his Mitchell Award. He has always achieved consistently high scores on achievement tests and review boards, which are reflective of his dedication to the program. He conducts himself as a gentleman, and is a respectful, compliant and valued member of our Cadet detachment. Cadet Coeur foresakes the "spotlight" in favor of completing the mission. He carries out his duties with minimal fanfare but with consistently successful results, from which we all benefit--that is the trademark of an exceptional NCO.

During the period in question, through his service and duty performance, Cadet Coeur has distinguished himself and the Civil Air Patrol. For these reasons, it is our privilege to announce that Cadet Bobby Coeur is Squadron 144 and California Wing’s Cadet NCO of the Year.

Maj Daryl L. Newton, former Squadron 144 Commander

A Day at Miramar Marine Corps Air Station

2008-03-18T20:18:00.000-07:00

Group Photo of Sq. 144 & 201 with Maj Tim “Pablo” Sheyda & his wingmen

Retired USMC LtCol “Oly” Olson providing F-4 walk around at Marine Air Museum

Retired USMC LtCol “Oly” Olson providing F/A-18 walk around at Marine Air Museum

LtCol Dick Miller, Director, Marine Air Museum explains inside exhibits

Trip Report
By Maj Dennis S. Ammann
Cmdr, SD Cadet Sq. 144

At 0830 hours, Saturday, 15 March 2008, the following personnel reported for transport-tation to Miramar Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS), San Diego:

Cadets
C/2Lt Douglas Saavedra
C/CMSgt Chandra Murphy
C/SSgt Spencer Beaulieu
C/SrA Scott Lynch
C/A1C Hayden Sheyda
C/A1C Emily Duescher
C/A1C Andrew Elsken
C/A1C Caleb Duescher
C/Amn Nathan Duescher
C/Amn Hanna Olson
C/Amn Blake Hanslik
C/Amn Jesse O’Keefe
C/Amn Rebecca Olson
C/Amn Matthew Valdez (South San Diego Cadet Sq. 201)
C/AB John Shearer
C/AB Matthew McFarland
C/AB John Davis (South San Diego Cadet Sq. 201)
C/AB Cesar Dela Vega (South San Diego Cadet Sq. 201)

Senior Members
LtCol Ben Aaron
LtCol Elbert McDowell
Maj Dennis Ammann
Capt David Saavedra
2Lt Jeff Cable
Cadet Sponsor Jeffrey “Oley” Olson
Cadet Sponsor Heidi Olson
Cadet Sponsor William McFarland

At 0900 hours the two squadrons arrived at the east gate of MCAS Miramar and were greeted by Maj Timothy “Pablo” Sheyda of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 (HMH-466), the famous fighting world renowned Wolf Pack. Maj Sheyda is the father of C/A1C Hayden Sheyda who is a member of SD Cadet Sq. 144. After being screened through security, we were escorted to the Wolf Pack ready room for a briefing by Maj Sheyda. The major displayed a PowerPoint presentation about the mission, specifica-tions, history, and recent deployments to the Middle East.

After the briefing, Maj Sheyda led the cadets and senior members to the maintenance hangar for a look at one of the CH-53 Sea Stallions undergoing overhaul. He explained the various components of this mammoth helicopter being worked on, i.e., the General Electric engines, rotors, in-flight refueling probe, etc.

After this extensive brief, the group was divided up in two, one group headed to the survival equipment room and the other group walked out onto the flight line for a walk-around tour of the ready duty CH-53 helicopter.

During the survival equipment session, Sgt David Ewart had Cadet Andrew Elsken don an armor plated vest, survival vest, and helmet. He then explained what the various items on the vest and their function, i.e., flares, strobe light, inflation bladder, knife, radio, etc. As he explained, Cadet Elsken stood there thinking about what it’s like to wear all of this heavy gear while trying to fly a helicopter at night or as an aircrewman in the back in 100 plus degree heat! Each cadet was allowed to try on the night vision goggles (NVG) in a darken room and compare their sight with that of the NVGs. The only disadvantage was the limited peripheral vision. How these Marine aviators fly during the night with NVG tunnel vision is just beyond comprehension. The alternative is worse, vertigo! By the way, NVGs cost $10,000 each, so start saving your money if you want a pair.

Meanwhile, outside on the flight line, 1Lts Dan “Fitz” Fitzpatrick, Ryan “Prancer” Thompson, and Michael “Kermit” Pigford pointed out the various systems and components of the Sikorsky Sea Stallion helicopter. Each CAP member was given the chance to sit in the pilot/co-pilot’s seat and learn about the various controls levers/foot pedals, i.e., rudder, collective, and cyclic. The forward looking infrared (FLIR) ball, located on the front left side, is used for night flying. Each pilot has a small TV monitor in which to view behind, forward, or straight down and can also view the cargo sling or troops on the ground. Each FLIR costs about two million dollars, so they are very careful not to damage them! We also saw where the chaff, flare dispensers, and missile disruptors are located in defense of heat seeking missiles. One of the deck trap doors were opened and pointed out how this helo can lift heavy cargo (i.e. F/A-18 Hornet, 155 mm howitzer, etc.). The Sea Stallion can carry 37 combat troops, which can quickly ingress/egress out the back ramp. We also learned about the refueling probe on the front (front right side) and the dangers associated with in-flight refueling with KC-130 Hercules fixed wing aircraft. The CH-53 has a 79 foot diameter rotor blade sweep and if lowered in the front can clip the tip of the refueling probe when fully extended.

After the walk-around and survival gear briefs, the two CAP squadrons posed with our hosts next to the ready duty CH-53 for a group photo. We then walked back inside the hangar to the Wolf Pack “gedunk” to purchase patches, T-shirts, challenge coins, etc. Afterward, the two squadrons formed up outside the security fence and thanked our hosts for a most enlightening tour of this very versatile helicopter and squadron. We are very grateful to Maj Sheyda and his wingmen for this outstanding aerospace education (AE) opportunity. On a side note, we learned that 1Lt Dan “Fitz” Fitzpatrick was a CAP cadet with the North Carolina Wing. He also mentioned how sharp and disciplined the cadets appeared. This compliment from a Marine Aviator and former CAP cadet was well received! The Wolf Pack’s motto is: “The strength of the pack is the wolf and the strength of the wolf is the pack.”

At 1200 hours, the squadrons headed over to the on-base McDonald’s restaurant to eat lunch and then on to the Flying Leatherneck Air Museum at 1300 hours.

First stop was an F-4S Phantom walk-around by our own Cadet Sponsor Jeffrey “Oly” Olson, a retired USMC LtCol fighter pilot who flew the F-4 Phantom and F/A-18 Hornet. His knowledge is unsurpassed as he explained and answered many questions about this fast mover that the Navy, Air Force, and Marines flew from the 1960s through the 1990s!

After Oly’s walk around we headed into the Air Museum and were warmly greeted by LtCol Richard Miller, USMC (Ret.), Director of the volunteer docents. He told us about the future expansion plans of the museum, Marine aviation history, and pointed out a few items in the WWII section. He also welcomed cadets who might want to volunteer for community service by being a docent on the weekends like C/SrA Scott Lynch and accumulate 60 plus hours, earning the CAP Community Service Ribbon.

As a volunteer Marine Air Museum docent, Maj Ammann led the squadrons through the inside of the museum starting with the Women in the Marine Corps exhibit, Korean War, Vietnam War, and Persian Gulf War exhibits. He pointed out the various Marine Aviators, many of who are Medal of Honor awardees. Outside a quick look at some of the rotary wing examples, i.e., H-19 Chickasaw, H-34 Choctaw, CH-53D Sea Stallion, AH-1 Cobra; fixed wing prop: B-25 Mitchell, TBM Avenger, F4U Corsair, AT-6 Texan; and jets to name a few: A-6 Intruder, MiG-15, A-4 Skyhawk, RF-4 Phantom, RF-8 Crusader, etc.

Again LtCol Jeff “Oly” Olson conducted an intense, very informative walk-around of an F/A-18 Hornet that used to be part of the Aggressor Force for the Top Gun Fighter Weapons School, Naval Air Station, Fallon, NV. His knowledge of this aircraft and his personal touch in explaining the capabilities of this fighter was an AE gold mine for us.

At 1530 hours we thanked Col Miller for his time, left the museum, and headed back to the 147th Combat Communications Squadron ending this activity.

This activity could not have been accomplished without our senior members, cadet sponsors, and parents who volunteered to drive. Parent drivers were: Mr. Steve Lynch, Steve Murphy, Patrick O’Keefe, and Tim Beaulieu.

We are all experts on the CH-53 Sea Stallion thanks to Maj Sheyda and his wingmen. We salute and thank you for your service to our great nation!

We thank LtCol Miller for his continued support of CAP and exposing our cadets to Marine Air and its history.

As an added bonus, LtCol Jeffrey “Oley” Olson has turned 18 cadets into F-4 and F/A-18 experts through his vast knowledge of these two wonderful fighters!

I would like to thank everyone for the outstanding turnout and this great AE opportunity to learn about the largest helicopter in the free world and Marine Air in general.
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Below is a quick study of the CH-53E Super Sea Stallion

CH-53E SUPER SEA STALLION

Engines: Three 4,380-shp General Electric T64-GE-416 turboshafts

Performance: Maximum speed 196 mph at optimum altitude; initial climb rate 2,495 ft. per minute; service ceiling 18,400 ft.; range 1,292 miles
Weights: Empty 36,336 lb.; maximum take-off 743,500 lb.

Dimensions: Main rotor diameter 79 ft; length, fuselage 73 ft. 4 in.; height 29 ft. 6 in.; main rotor disc area 4,901.67 sq. ft. (7 blades)

Armament: Two 0.5-in machine guns on trainable mountings.

Payload: Between 55 and 64 troops, or 24 litters plus four attendants, or freight. Can lift a 155mm artillery piece, ammo, and personnel to operate the cannon or small armored vehicle or small jet fighter (i.e. A-4 Skyhawk). Also can be used for naval mine sweeping duties.
Comments: In the late 1950s Sikorsky began work on the basic design for a successor to the piston-engined S-56. The result was a pair of helicopters sharing many components: the S-64 became the CH-54 Tarhe flying crane, and the S-65 with a conventional but amphibious fuselage became the USMC’s CH-53 Sea Stallion transport helicopter. The S-65 is a classic heavy helicopter and, resulting from a USMC requirement for an assault transport, first flew in October 1964 as the YCH-53A with two 2,850-shp T64-GE-6 turboshafts and capacity for 38 troops, or 24 litters, or 8,000 lb. of freight. The type entered service in mid-1966 as the CH-53A, and was later re-engined with 3,435-shp T-64-GE-16 engines. In March 1974 Sikorsky flew the first example of its CH-53E upgraded version with three turboshafts powering a larger diameter main rotor with seven rather than six blades. The type displayed much improved lift, and was ordered as the USMC’s CH-53E Super Sea Stallion. The model also attracted the interest of the U.S. Navy, which already used the RH-53 versions of the S-65 for mine countermeasures (MCM). This helicopter provided an excellent platform for towing the MK-103, 104, 105, and 106 MCM sleds. The USAF also uses this helicopter for multi-missions such as SAR, and is designated as the HM-53J Pave Low.

CAP Sunday

2007-12-02T19:53:00.000-08:00

Carlsbad, CA Capt Richard Nelson, Chaplain for Skyhawk Squadron 47 invited the San Diego County CAP squadrons to join him at his church, Coastline Community Church, located in Carlsbad to participate in the nation-wide CAP Sunday on 2 December 2007. This annual event was established to recognize Gill Robb Wilson, the founder of Civil Air Patrol who was a pilot and also a Presbyterian Minister.

Chaplain Nelson and his wife Nancy welcomed LtCol Michael Woods, Maj Dee Osargent, Maj John DiGiantomasso and his wife Andrea, and Capt Dennis Ammann and his wife Kuei-Mei. The worship service started at 1045 hours with the Youth Minister Chris Schmaltz presiding. Chaplain Nelson was asked to come forward and explain why members of CAP were present that Sunday. Chaplain Nelson briefly spoke about Gill Robb Wilson and CAP then acknowledged the two squadrons that were present. Finally, he offered a prayer for out armed forces and their families serving in harms way and that God would look over them and protect them.

Rev. Schmaltz’s message was titled, ‘A Martha or Mary Christmas?’ He spoke about how everyone rushes around each year at Christmas time purchasing gifts and visiting friends and relatives, not taking the time out to find out what the reason for the season is all about (read the Book of Luke, Chapter 10). He offered a tool that everyone could make at home by picking up the instructions in the back after church (how to construct an advent candle wreath). He explained what the advent wreath was and the symbology behind it, i.e., what each candle meant, the wreath, what candle to light each week prior to Christmas, etc. Taking time to do this will help one to remember why we celebrate Christmas. He also shared a story about his youth when a fellow high school student was looking for Jesus but he didn’t take him serious, now his friend is a minister too. Rev. Schmaltz injected a lot of humor in his sermon, but was also very moving as he encouraged the parishioners to slow down this year and reflect about the true meaning of Christmas.

After the worship service, we all had lunch together and enjoyed each other’s company at Coco’s Restaurant in Encinitas. Chaplain Nelson has been leading this event for many years and I can attest that, although only my second time, I’ve enjoyed the fellowship and message from Coastline Community Church who I might add, is celebrating their first year at their new site in Carlsbad. Merry Christmas to Coastline and their congregation!

Capt Dennis Ammann
Commander, SD Cadet Sq. 144

Challenge Air 2007

2007-11-17T19:49:00.000-08:00

A Challenge Air flyer is excited to go on an airplane ride

Challenge Air flyer waiting for boarding

Challenge Air 2007 flyer receiving his wings from a pilot

Brown Field, San Diego, CA. During the month of September, Ms. Lonna Gibson, West Coast Director of Challenge Air, requested CAP assistance for flight line security and marshalling aircraft at Brown Field on 17 November 2007. Challenge Air is a non-profit organization that provides mentally and physically challenged children with airplane rides nation-wide.

Three CAP squadron personnel volunteered their time for this activity and are listed as follows:

SD Cadet Sq. 144
C/2Lt Peter Kler
C/CMSgt Douglas Saavedra
C/CMSgt Chandra Murphy
C/Amn Scott Lynch
C/Amn Antony Tavan
C/AB Alexander Lange
C/AB Caleb Duescher
C/AB Emily Duescher
C/AB Nathan Duescher
C/AB Rebecca Olson
C/AB Dominick Tavan
C/AB Reece Coulter
C/AB Sean Coulter

Capt David Saavedra
2Lt Jeff Cable
Capt Dennis Ammann

South SD Cadet Sq. 201
C/CMSgt Matthew Lytle
C/AB Dylan Wall

LtCol Steve Handrop
Capt Casey Handrop

Skyhawk Composite Sq. 47
1Lt William Dean

At 0745 hours the above personnel reported to Capt Ammann at the San Diego Jet Center hangar in order to check-in with the Challenger Air staff. After check-in 1Lt Dean, LtCol Handrop, and Lt Cable attended the pilots’ briefing while the other members attended the ground safety brief. Once safety procedures were established, C/2Lt Kler set up a rotating flight line detail along the small flight line and around three rows of aircraft.

The children were escorted out to the waiting aircraft at 0900 hours by members of other San Diego volunteer organizations who assisted the children into the cabin and buckled them in. Once the pilot was ready to taxi, CAP personnel directed the aircraft out onto the taxiway.

There were about 20 pilots operating 15 light aircraft, providing 135 special children the time of their life! The pilots were from all over San Diego and provided a 45 minute orientation ride around the South San Diego area. Upon returning to ‘tierra firma’ the child disembarked from the airplane; the pilot affixed Challenger Air golden wings on the child’s shirt; and the staff presented a certificate of flight while posing for a picture. This was very emotional to witness, to see the beaming faces of these children after their flight receiving their wings. We all knew we were providing valuable assistance to a very worth while organization.

LtCol Handrop and Lt Dean brought their handheld radios for direct communications with the pilots. They directed them to Lt Cable who passed them off to cadets who positioned them to a tie-down on one of the three rows. With the vast experience of these three senior members and C/Lt Kler’s past air show experience and excellent leadership, the new cadets were quickly taught how to marshal aircraft and provide flight line security.

At high noon, Challenge Air staff provided lunch consisting of BBQ hot dogs, hamburgers, drinks, and potato chips for the volunteers. CAP personnel were rotated accordingly as flight operations continued during lunch.

Capt Casey Handrop, wife of LtCol Steve Handrop, brought her working dog, Colette and acted as our CAP photographer. The children were able to interact with this well-trained service dog, who also has therapy certification, and attends the middle school where Capt Handrop is a teacher. Two other working dogs were present as well. In addition to the dogs, the children enjoyed an inflatable jumping room too.

Flight operations were conducted all day until 1700 hours when flight operations were finally secured as the sun set in the west. Although it was tiring standing up all day, marshalling aircraft, and providing flight line security, everyone felt they accomplished and supported a very worthwhile event. What a wonder day it was, no aircraft accidents, no personnel injuries, weather was perfect, free Challenger Air T-shirts, and watching the children leave, excited about their flight in the blue skies of San Diego. One pilot, Mr. Tom Burton, provided two cadets a ride in his Champ two place light aircraft just before securing for the day.

It seems like CAP is always there to assist air show staffs with flight line security. CAP volunteers leave with a sense of accomplishment knowing they provided a vital task and at the same time watch an air show. Although there was no air show during Challenger Air, I can attest that there was a different sense of accomplishment. The cadets and senior members left that day with a deep feeling of warmth, knowing they helped these very special children. We look forward to helping Challenge Air next year when called upon and are indebted to Ms. Gibson for allowing us to assist.

Semper Vigilans!,

Capt Dennis S. Ammann
Commander, SD Cadet Sq. 144

C-AB Emily Duescher & Tom Burton a Challenge Air 2007 pilot

Miramar Air Show 2007

2007-10-25T21:02:00.000-07:00

San Diego Cadet Squadron 144, Skyhawk Composite Squadron 47, and South San Diego Cadet Squadron 201 were invited by USAF Recruiter, SSgt David Cummings to set up a CAP recruiting table with his recruiting team at the annual Miramar Air Show, Marine Corps Air Station, San Diego, CA. This annual air show is probably the largest air show west of the Mississippi River and an excellent opportunity for recruiting and learning about aerospace education (AE).

The USAF Thunderbirds performed their aerial demonstration in place of the Navy’s Blue Angeles who were in Hawaii, resulting as a windfall for USAF recruiting efforts. A few of the Thunderbird pilots and maintenance personnel visited the USAF/CAP recruiting area.

As real estate agents say, “location, location, location.” SSgt Cummings was able to acquire an excellent area on the tarmac adjacent to grandstands numbers one and two, a perfect place as the crowds moved between the aircraft static displays and grandstands. The USAF recruiters had two large inflatable football/basketball toss games set up, in addition to their blue AF trailer while passing out recruiting materials. The CAP table was set up next to the AF booth and provided a base of operations for our cadets to store their gear and check-in.

Surrounding the USAF/CAP recruiting area, were various static display aircraft, i.e., an AT-6 Texan WWII trainer, CH-21 Shawnee Korean War cargo helicopter, B-25 Mitchell WWII medium bomber, and an AN-2 Colt Russian airborne/by-wing “pick-up truck.” Two shiny Lockheed Electras were next door, similar to the one Emilia Earhart flew in her attempt to fly around the world in the late 1930s.

At about 0900 hours, the three listed CAP squadrons above, reported for CAP recruiting. At 1000 hours, Capt Dennis Ammann walked them over to LtCol Darren Wilson, the pilot of a B-52H Stratofortress from Minot AFB, ND. Col Wilson introduced himself and told the cadets all about this 46 year old aircraft which will probably fly until the year 2020! He was very humorous but also deadly serious about his mission to utilize air power when needed. After the walk around tour, a group photo with Col Wilson was taken. Maj John DiGiantomasso, of Squadron 47 led his cadets for a quick tour of some of the other aircraft while LtCol Steve Handrop, Squadron 201 did the same. Squadron 144 proceeded to the Special Operations MC-130 for another walk-around tour.

The Miramar Air Show is an AE Officer’s paradise, but conducting AE around the static display aircraft is a real challenge as one has to talk over the performing aircraft above. What a great problem this is! Rather than reading a book or watching a CD, there they are flying above us! This is truly the Sound of Freedom with screaming F/A-18 Hornets, AV-8 Harriers, and F-16 Falcons just a few miles per hour short of breaking the sound barrier!

Maj DiGiantomasso arranged free admission for the cadets who wanted to stay for the twilight show by policing the area prior to show time at dusk. This is always a hit with a look at military jets taking off with afterburners at night, aircraft lighting off pyrotechnics, and the famous wall of fire for the grand finale.

On Sunday a smaller CAP contingent was present but still provided excellent recruiting opportunities to the general public. Aircraft walk around tours were offered to the cadets as they learned about military aircraft from WWII to the present.

As for the air show itself, the Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstrated various aspects of battle ground attack, i.e., aerial photo recon, recon team insertion, strafing, low level bombing, helicopter assault, combat Marine deployment, helicopter heavy lift, and in-flight refueling. There was an F-117 Nighthawk flight demo and various civilian aerobatic acts, such as The Patriots flying Czechoslovakian L-39 Albatross; the Red Bull, a Russian MiG-17 Fresco fighter flown by Bill Reesman; Sean Tucker’s Oracle Challenger; Bret Willat Sailplane Show (probably the best sailplane pilot in the world, right here at Warner Springs); and perhaps the best crowd pleaser of the civilian air performers: the Red Baron Squadron consisting of four Stearman by-planes.

CAP Squadrons who participate at Miramar Air Show recruiting, experience an increase in visitors soon afterward each year, not to mention the knowledge cadets obtain about AE. We are very thankful to SSgt David Cummings and his recruiters for allowing us to set up shop inside his recruiting area on the tarmac.

See you next year at the Miramar Air Show! Semper Vi !

Capt Dennis Ammann
Cmdr, SD Cadet Sq. 144

3rd Annual Astronomy Night

2007-09-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

Our third annual Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Astronomy Night was a mirrored image of the last two held in 2005 and 2006. Again our host Mr. Dennis Ritz was there to welcome us and share is vast knowledge of the heavens. As I mentioned in the last two reports, Mr. Ritz is retired CEO, having owned his own drug screening company and also a pilot owning a Cirrus SR22 low wing, four seat aircraft. Retired and flying, in fact this year he flew all the way to Nome, AK making stops along the way to visit friends. He also made a ‘side trip’ to Maine! A lot of miles in the sky, what a life!
At 1500 hours the following San Diego Cadet Sq. 144 personnel reported to Capt Dennis Ammann outside the main gate of the 147th Combat Communications Squadron, CA Air National Guard. Cadet Connolly was the senior cadet in charge of this activity with Cadet Alex Ramos as his flight sergeant. The following cadets were present for transportation to Tierra del Sol:

C/2Lt Joseph Connolly
C/2Lt Peter Kler
C/2Lt Matthew Corey
C/CMSgt Douglas Saavedra
C/SMSgt Chandra Murphy
C/TSgt Alex Ramos
C/A1C Spencer Beaulieu
C/A1C Harrison Coyne
C/A1C Brent Timm
C/Amn Marshall Bryan
C/Amn Scott Lynch
C/Amn Anthony Tavan
C/AB Dan Pearce
C/AB Dominick Tavan

LtCol Benjamin Aaron
Capt David Saavedra
Capt Dennis Ammann
Lt Jeff Cable
SM Tony Ramos

Our parent volunteer drivers were: Mr. Chris Lynch, and Mr. Steve Murphy. Senior member drivers were: Lt Cable, SM Ramos, Capt Saavedra, and Capt Ammann along with C/2Lt Kler utilizing his vehicle as the squadron ‘mule’ to haul camping equipment and other gear. With cadets assigned to each vehicle, the convoy left at 1515 hours, arriving at the south end of a local casino parking lot at 1615 hours to meet with Cadet Murphy and her father. Upon utilizing the head facilities, the caravan continued on to the San Diego Astronomy Association (SDAA) site.

Arriving at the SDAA site at about 1700 hours, our sister squadron, South San Diego Sq. 201 reported in shortly after our arrival with the following personnel:

LtCol Steve Handrop
C/2Lt Andy Handrop
C/MSgt Amy Hannibal
C/MSgt Mark Hannibal
C/MSgt Jason Hannibal
C/Sgt Steven Hannibal
C/Sgt Mathew Lytle
C/AB Matthew Valdez

C/2Lts Connolly and Handrop assembled their respective squadrons into one flight and Capt Ammann welcomed everyone to the third annual CAP Astronomy Night. He spoke about the rules against noise, skylarking, white lights after sunset, and the schedule of events. Lt Cable spoke about safety, covering the altitude (3,000 feet), night hazards, environment, insects, and animals that one might encounter.

After the welcome and safety brief, all the gear was off-loaded, tents set up, and BBQs fired up for dinner. Again, Mrs. Kuei-Mei Ammann was the unofficial CAP cook, offering chicken and beef skewers, hot dogs, and hamburgers. Prior to eating dinner, Capt Ammann offered the dinner prayer for those who chose to pause before eating. Dinner also included the usual beans, potatoes chips, salad, soft drinks, and cookies. Each cadet was required to bring a food item and fortunately everyone brought enough for the entire group.

Mr. Dennis Ritz was introduced and also welcomed the two CAP squadrons and spoke about what types of telescopes were available to the cadets that night. Mr. Bob Austin, the President of the SDAA was also invited and introduced himself.

As soon as dinner was finished, all personnel assembled where Capt Ammann reviewed the safety precautions and schedule. He also quickly pointed out the following: how to find Polaris the North Star and how Vega would become the north star in 12,000 years from now; where Jupiter is located; described how large the reddish star Antares is just below Jupiter in the constellation of Scorpio; pointed out the center of our Milky Way Galaxy in the constellation of Sagittarius; and suggested that each cadet first view the crescent moon before it quickly sets in the west.

With that said, the cadets assembled at Mr. Ritz’ observatory for a quick view of his three telescopes: 16” Meade LX200 Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, an 18” Meade Dobsonian, and a 16” Meade Dobsonian. The 16” Meade LX200 was hooked up to a laptop computer that displayed the image viewed and followed the target as it moved through the heavens. Just by inputting a star’s location, the computer would aim this telescope right on the target! No need for a small spotter to strain one’s eye.

After Mr. Ritz’ brief, the cadets affixed their flashlights with red filters to preserve their night vision and quickly dispersed throughout the site, visiting Mr. Austin’s 17” Dobsonian telescope to view the moon. Mr. Austin left this scope outside his observatory all night for the cadets to utilize. They also visited the other amateur astronomers, most of which had small scopes in the lower parking lot. There were two cement walkways that tripods could be set up along with electrical hook-ups for computers and scope drive motors for time exposure photography. Vehicles and tents were set up next to the cement walkways and the cadets were encouraged to visit each astronomer’s pad, ask questions and take a look at what they were observing.

As darkness fell, the crescent moon held back the Milky Way and most of the stars, but soon the multitude of stars won as the moon slid behind the mountains to the west and BANG, the Milky Way appeared, well about 70% of it because the light from San Diego, Orange/LA County took over where the moon left off to the west. Still it stretched clear across most of the sky, with some of the cadets seeing it for the first time. This grand view is calorie free compared to the Milky Way candy bar that rots cadets’ teeth.

The most distant object one can see with the naked eye is Andromeda (M31) our nearest neighbor in the local group of galaxies. This tiny fuzzy spot is 2.2 million light years from Earth and was almost straight up at 2345 hours. The good news is that Andromeda will collide with us and we’ll have twice as many stars in our heavens! The bad news is this won’t happened until five billion years from now when planet Earth is nothing more than a cold burnt piece of rock floating in our galaxy. In the early 1900s, Edward Hubble is credited with determining the distance to this galaxy and astounded the scientific community that it was not a part of the Milky Way, but another distant galaxy. What a sight it is to view and wonder what it would be like to fly there and visit!

Again like the last two years, one of the ground rules concerning CAP Astronomy Night is that there is NO rule about turning in. One can stay up all night and watch the continuing night view. The Pleiades Star Cluster (M45) (about 440 light years from Earth) rose about 2300 hours what a sight to view in a telescope! Mars rose about the same time in the east, shining in its reddish glow. The constellation of Orion was rose in the east about 0100 hours, lying on his side.

Many of the cadets took advantage of the SDAA club’s giant 22 inch Lipp telescope to view distant astronomical objects. What a field of view and power it provides. Ms. Alice Harvey, the SDAA secretary, set us up with the double star Albireo in the constellation of Cygnus the Swan. This double star consists of a yellow star and blue star that are 385 light years from Earth and easy to find, as it is the head of the swan. One might say that this star belongs to the San Diego Chargers; go blue and gold!

Many of the cadets hung out in the SDAA STS conference room. C/2Lt Connolly brought his lap top computer and downloaded Chief Murphy’s copy of the recent Encampment 2007 ‘Week Book’ which she copied prior to leaving for Astronomy Night. Many funny stories were told about last month’s encampment as a lot of the cadets from both squadrons attended. They also watched two movies and before long, it was time to break camp and wake up the others who were sleeping.

At 0600 hours reveille was held and CAP tent city was quickly dismantled and loaded back in the vehicles by 0700 hours. Prior to departure, the traditional “FOD” walk down was held as the cadets formed a line and picked up the trash. They covered about one third of the site, leaving it clean and taking the trash with us. Just prior to departure, a group picture was taken with the two squadrons and our host, Mr. Dennis Ritz. After thanking Mr. Ritz and with everyone accounted for, we headed for home, arriving back at the 147th CBCS at 0845 hours.

As stated in last year’s report, Aerospace Education is one of the three missions of CAP and this activity is an excellent way to study astronomy rather than sit in a room and read from a book. Yes, the cadets will read about astronomy in school and as part of their CAP modular syllabus. They will have a better understanding when viewing a picture of M15, the Hercules Star Cluster and can say, “I saw that globular star cluster through a 16 inch Dobsonian telescope during CAP Astronomy Night!”

This educational opportunity would not happen without the hospitality of Mr. Dennis Ritz who offered their time, observatory, and telescopes to us. The weather was excellent, even with two local mountain fires, the winds were turning the smoke away from our site.

Also vital to any field trip’s success are parent drivers. We would like to thank Mr. Chris Lynch and Steve Murphy for offering their vehicles and driving us to the astronomy site plus helping out with the BBQ and pitching in anyway they could. Many thanks to C/2Lt Kler for letting us utilize his mother’s SUV as the squadron “mule” and to Lt Cable and SM Ramos for providing transportation too.

Mr. Ritz and Mr. Austin were very gracious hosts along with the members of the SDAA. Without their willingness to share their knowledge of the heavens and their telescopes this event would not succeed. Lastly, we would like to thank LtCol Steve Handrop and South San Diego Cadet Sq. 201 for joining us on our third astronomy night and making it such a success. Events like this offer opportunities to make new friends and bond with our closest neighbor, Sq. 201.

Keep looking up! Semper Vi !

Capt Dennis S. Ammann
Commander, San Diego Cadet Sq. 144

The Grand Design Spiral Galaxy M81 at 11.6 million light-years from Earth

Lindbergh Field Air Traffic Control Tower & SDFD Airport Fire Station Tour Report

2007-07-31T11:35:00.000-07:00

The following personnel assembled at 1830 hours, Tuesday, 31 July 2007 at the Washington Street entrance to Lindbergh Field for a tour of the Air Traffic Control Tower and SDFD Airport Fire Station:

Sq. 144 Cadets
C/2Lt Joseph Connolly
C/2Lt Matthew Corey
C/MSgt Chandra Murphy
C/SSgt Alex Ramos
C/SrA Daniel Gorin
C/SrA Brown, Laura
C/Amn Scott Lynch
C/Amn Andrew Elsken
C/Amn Erika Goodall
C/Amn Spencer Beaulieu
C/Amn Kevin Mihalik
C/Amn Marshall Bryan
C/Amn Matthew Rosbrook
C/Amn Courtney Ellis
C/Amn Ben Sachs
C/Amn Anthony Tavan
C/MSgt Jakob Parsons (visiting from Connecticut)

Sq. 144 Senior Members
LtCol Ben Aaron
Maj Elbert McDowell
Capt Dennis Ammann
Capt David Saavedra
2Lt Chris Haukom
2Lt Jeff Cable
SM Anthony Ramos

Sq. 201 Cadets
C/2Lt Sgt Andrew Handrop
C/TSgt Amy Hannibal
C/TSgt Jason Hannibal
C/TSgt Mark Hannibal
C/SrA Steven Hannibal
C/Amn Jacob Pucci
C/TSgt Matthew Lytle

Sq. 201 Senior Members
LtCol Steve Handrop
Maj William Riddle

Mr. Michael Gagen, from the FAA met the two CAP squadrons at the security gate and we were quickly led through to the tower where the cadets formed up in formation. Capt Saavedra introduced Mr. Gagen to the two squadrons. He talked about his background and primary training as a Navy air traffic controlman aboard the USS Kitty Hawk. After active duty he applied for a job with the FAA and was quickly hired. He then introduced his assistant Mr. John Adi a new trainee just out of training at the FAA school in Oklahoma City.

Mr. Gagen then introduced us to Fire Chief Michael Brown who led us next door into the fire station. One of his firemen brought out a fire resistant silver crash suit and had a cadet don this heavy outfit. The fireman explained how they fight fires while wearing one of these bulky suits. Chief Brown explained the unique aspects of fighting an aircraft fire versus a building structure and the tactics they use to quickly extinguish an airliner on fire. He led us into the vehicle bay where four fire engines are maintained and ready to respond at a moments notice. While explaining the various firefighting systems these trucks have, one of his personnel demonstrated a special penetrating nozzle that can penetrate the side of a fuselage and spray water inside an aircraft in order to quickly put out a fire. After the fire station tour, the two squadrons thanked Chief Brown and his firefighters and went next door to the base of the control tower.

Mr. Gagen spoke briefly about the nine story tower adding that it is ten years old and the fourth one to be built since Lindbergh Field has been operating. He touched base about Charles A. Lindbergh, being the namesake for this very busy airport. The airport allows landings on runway 24/7 (magnetic heading of 090 degrees) with departures between the hours of 0630 to 2300 hours only because of noise restrictions to the surrounding neighborhoods. There are approximately 700 takeoffs and landings each day with two passenger terminals to support the airlines plus a cargo terminal. The airport has handled about every aircraft known to exist, even the giant Boeing 747, although they only flew here for about one year with British Airways. An even larger jet has visited Lindbergh Field in the past, the Russian made Antonov AN-124 Condor cargo plane.

Our host cycled eight people at a time to the top of the tower for a bird’s eye view of Lindbergh Field at night. The various approach radars were explained, responsibility of each traffic controller and their respective job (a total of four). Although Tuesday nights are not their busiest day, it did appear that one flight was coming in about every five minutes. One could imagine what it would be like on a Friday or Sunday night. After all personnel were cycled through the tower, it was time to leave at 2045 hours. We thanked our hosts and told them that we really appreciated this fantastic AE opportunity to visit the tower.

With the war on global terrorism, this was not an easy activity for Capt Saavedra to secure and is to be commended for his efforts in putting this activity together. Additionally, with so many cadets to transport, we are indebted to the five parents who helped drive the cadets to this event: Mrs. Jen Murphy, Mr. Tim Beaulieu, Mr. Art Brown, Ms. Michelle Winkenwerber, and Mr. Chris Lynch.

Respectfully submitted,

Capt Dennis Ammann
Public Affairs Officer

Wings Over Gillespie 2007

2007-07-17T19:07:00.000-07:00

This was the 13th year that Wings Over Gillespie (WOG) Air Show was held at Gillespie Field, El Cajon, CA. In order to prevent cancellation of the air show because of inclement weather, this year’s event was held on 16-17 June 2007. Last year it was almost rained out in the morning on one of the two days. CAP has been there from the start, helping out with flight line security. Mr. Steve Real, Commemorative Air Force (CAF), Air Group One Commander again requested assistance and San Diego Cadet Squadron 144 spearheaded the CAP support. Capt Dennis Ammann was designated as the Project Officer and attended the weekly CAF planning meetings one month prior to the air show.

On Saturday, 16 June, 0630 hours, the following personnel reported to the Project Officer in front of the airport admin building:

Skyhawk Composite Sq. 47
LtCol Michael Woods
Capt Tony Diaz
Capt Richard Nelson
1Lt William Dean
2Lt David MacGregor
C/CMSgt Kyle Wheeler
C/Amn Tyler MacGregor
C/Amn Michael Chung
C/Amn Kaila Reed
C/AB Conor Fox
C/AB Christian Saunders

South San Diego Sq. 201
LtCol Steve Handrop
C/CMSgt Andrew Handrop
C/TSgt Amy Hannibal
C/TSgt Jason Hannibal
C/TSgt Mark Hannibal
C/SrA Steven Hannibal
C/Amn Jacob Pucci

Group 7 Staff
Maj Deanna O’Sargent

San Diego Cadet Sq. 144
LtCol Ben Aaron
Capt Dennis Ammann
2Lt Jeff Cable
2Lt Chris Haukom
SM Tony Ramos
C/2Lt Matthew Corey
C/2Lt Joseph Connolly
C/MSgt Chandra Murphy
C/TSgt Alex Ramos
C/Amn Alec Benter
C/Amn Spencer Beaulieu
C/Amn Marshall Bryan
C/Amn Andrew Elsken
C/Amn Courtney Ellis
C/Amn Eric Johnson
C/Amn Brent Timm
C/Amn Chris Riha
C/AB Anthony Tavan

Capt Ammann welcomed the CAP squadrons to WOG and commenced the safety and WOG information brief. After the brief Chaplain Richard Nelson led the group in a word of prayer for the safety of all how worked, flew, and attended the air show that weekend. The group then proceeded to the admin building for the CAF portion of the safety, security, and information brief.

At 0800 hours Mr. Steve Real, welcomed and thanked the CAP personnel for assisting with the air show. He spoke about emergency services, aircraft crash procedures, flight line security, and taxi/runway incursions. He also introduced his First Aid Responder, Ground Boss, and Public Relations Rep.

After the two briefings, CAP control was set up next to a hangar by taxiway B-4. C/2Lt Matthew Corey was in charge of the combined CAP cadets with C/2Lt Joseph Connolly as his assistant and the two senior cadets from Squadrons 47 and 201 supporting the contingent. Three flights made up of about 25 cadets were assembled the first day along the flight line. Another responsibility for CAP was patrolling across runway 17-35. One hour watches were set up with one senior member and three cadets taking up positions there. Although CAF initially transported the security detachment across the active taxiway, 1Lt William Dean took the initiative to transport CAP personnel the rest of the day utilizing his van and receiving permission from the tower by utilizing his personal radio. This saved a lot of time and relieved CAF personnel to concentrate on other areas of the air show. The other cadets rotated on the flight line from taxiway B-4 to the intersection of runways 8-27L and 17-35. There were numerous other calls from CAF to assist with other aspects of the air show operations. All senior members rotated among the cadets in order to observe any safety concerns that might crop up with the aircraft or public spectators. The cadets performed very well, especially with the personnel who rent hangars and tie down spaces and expect to get in free by side stepping the front entrance. Most of the holes were blocked with cadets to avoid this situation, but a few times, senior members had to step in to back them up.

Maj Dee O’Sargent, Cadet Alex Ramos, and C/Amn Tyler MacGregor set up a recruiting table under the starboard wing of the C-53 Skytrooper (C-47 Skytrain derivative). This aircraft was configured as a paratrooper jump plane and participated in the D-Day invasion on 6 June 1944 of occupied France during WWII. Their recruiting efforts netted about 15 names that were divided up among the participating squadrons according to their geographical locations to the prospective contacts.

Some of the aircraft that flew during the weekend were: Four T-34 Mentors flying a missing man formation just before the opening ceremonies and National Anthem. Two A-1 Skyraiders owned by Bob Grondzik and Rick Morrison from Ramona Airport demonstrated low strafing/bombing passes as they might have done during the Vietnam War, complete with pyrotechnics in between runways 27R and 27L; this was a real crowd pleaser. The Planes of Fame flew a F8F Bearcat, F6F Hellcat, P-40 Warhawk, and a P-51 Mustang for low passes and aerial maneuvers. The California Department of Forestry (CDF) brought two aircraft; a modified ex-Navy S-2 Tracker aerial fire bomber and an ex-USAF OV-10 Bronco aerial fire command and control aircraft. They were to suppose to fly an aerial firefighting demonstration, but were called out to fight a fire at Bonsall, to the northwest. Mr. John Colliver performed his aerobatic show flying an AT-6 Texan with Mr. Craig Teft also flying an aerobatic show in his Pitts Special by-plane. Other flight demos were: four AT-6 Texans who flew around the pattern in formation; two L-19 Bird Dogs flew formation; a TBM Avenger like President George H. W. Bush (41st President) flew in WWII made a few passes with its bomb bay doors open; four L-19 Delfin jets flew formation demos. Unfortunately there were no heavy or medium WWII bombers like last year flying for the crowds at WOG because they were all on tour in other parts of the western United States.

Other aircraft in the static display area were: The C-53 Skytrooper that was previously mentioned, an A-20 Havoc twin-engine medium bomber, an F-14 Tomcat, F-86 Sabre, F-16 Falcon, and AV-8 Harrier all towed across the airport from the San Diego Air and Space Museum Annex at Gillespie Field; a DeHavilland DH4 WWI (70% scale) was flown in by an old WWII pilot from Arizona who modified his WWI light bomber into a post-WWI U.S. Mail plane. Numerous civilian antique aircraft were flown in by their owners and included: Stearmens, Wacos, Cessnas, etc. The largest plane on display, a C-46 Commando owned by CAF from Camarillo, CA. This aircraft was the mainstay for the re-supply effort in the China-Burma-India theater supporting the combined Chinese/Allied Forces during WWII. All supplies had to be flown over the Himalayan Mountains between India and China. Many C-46s and C-47 Skytrains crashed because of bad weather and overloaded aircraft, thus naming their route “the Aluminum Trail.”

At the end of the air show on Saturday, the combined squadrons formed up in front of the C-53 Skytrooper for a group photo. Squadrons 47 and 201 were thanked by Capt Ammann for their outstanding support for the CAF WOG Air Show and secured at 1730 hours.

The weather each day was overcast in the morning but lifted about 1000 hours and was clear the rest of the day. The high temperatures were in the middle 80 degrees with a cool breeze coming in about 1600 hours each day. Water was always available by the CAF water wagon that made numerous rounds along the flight line.

On Sunday, 17 June, the following personnel again reported in front of the Gillespie Field admin building at 0630 hours:

San Diego Cadet Sq. 144
Capt Dennis Ammann
2Lt Chris Haukom
2Lt Jeff Cable
SM Tony Ramos
C/2Lt Matthew Corey
C/2Lt Joseph Connolly
C/MSgt Chandra Murphy
C/TSgt Alex Ramos
C/Amn Spencer Beaulieu
C/Amn Marshall Bryan
C/Amn Courtney Ellis
C/AB Anthony Tavan
C/SrAmn Daniel Gorin
C/AB Scott Lynch
C/AB Kevin Mihalik

El Cajon Senior Sq. 57
1Lt Shairrie Van Duzer

Group 7 Staff
1Lt Richard Lovick

Although the number of CAP personnel reporting in on Sunday were scaled down from the previous day, the cadets took a lesson from the U.S. Marine Corps to “improvise, adapt, and overcome” in support of the numerous requests from CAF. Only one senior member was assigned across the runway with a two hour watch, taking a strategic position where the two runways cross. We utilized the airport security guard to transport the senior members across the active taxiway, again freeing up CAF. Cadets were spread thin but were alert to their expanded area. We were fortunate to have 1Lts Shairrie Van Duzer and Richard Lovick volunteer to augment our senior member force on Sunday. Lt Lovick drove all the way from Costa Mesa to help out.

A lesson learned from Saturday was to form a quick response team (QRT) like Capt John Binder, CAP Sq. 20 set up at the Chino Air Show for emergency responses. When the two CDF aircraft had to respond to a fire in Bonsall, CAP had no personnel on the other side of the static display, so were not aware they were leaving or needed assistance clearing the spectators away. On Sunday we were ready and alert for such a repeat of this situation. There were no CDF responses on Sunday.

There was a medical emergency at about 1600 hours with CAF requesting CAP assistance to clear the entrance to the front admin building parking lot as an eight year old female was having trouble breathing. The CAF Emergency Medical Team (EMT) initially responded and waited for back up from El Cajon Fire and Ambulance Department. 2Lt Jeff Cable (a SD Policeman by profession) took the lead at the T-street entrance directing traffic away from the admin building parking lot so the ES vehicles could enter. 1Lt Rick Lovick also assisted, directing people out of the entrance along with Cadets Corey and Connolly. Capt Ammann cleared people away from the front main entrance. This worked out very well, as the EMT were inside and performing their duties. CAP QRT was secured and returned to the flight line.

At 1730 hours, CAP was requested to start clearing people from the air show so that aircraft could be moved and vendors could secure their tents and merchandise. At 1830 hours, CAP was secured from duty and everyone who was left formed up in front of the AV-8 Harrier for a group picture.

In closing there were no runway/taxiway incursions or any accidents on the flight line thanks to the members of CAP. The CAP cadets were very professional, sharp looking, and always ready to lend a hand at any request demanded of them. CAP made a very positive public influence at this air show by not only setting up a recruiting booth but also providing a commanding visible appearance while working the flight line.

Thanks to all who attended!

Semper Vi !

Capt Dennis Ammann
WOG Project Officer
SD Cadet Sq. 144

Rancho Bernardo 4th of July Parade

2007-07-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

At 1400 hours, Wednesday, 4 July 2007 the following personnel reported to 2Lt David Saavedra, at the parade staging, Bernardo Center Drive and Lomica Drive, Rancho Bernardo for the start of the 38th annual "Spirit of the Fourth Parade."

CADETS
C/2Lt Joseph Connolly, Cadet Cmdr
C/2Lt Matthew Corey, Flight Cmdr
C/SMSgt Douglas Saavedra, Color Guard Cmdr
C/MSgt Chandra Murphy
C/TSgt Alex Ramos, First Sergeant
C/SSgt Daniel Gorin
C/SrA Joshua Flewellen
C/A1C Laura Brown, Color Guard
C/Amn Spencer Beaulieu
C/Amn Bryan Marshall
C/Amn Brent Timm
C/Amn Alec Benter, Color Guard
C/Amn Courtney Ellis, Color Guard
C/AB Scott Lynch

SENIOR MEMBERS
Capt. Dennis Ammann, Sq. Cmdr
2Lt David Saavedra, Proj. Officer
SM Anthony Ramos

After assembly, 2Lt Joseph Connolly discussed last minute marching strategies with his staff concerning the parade route. All personnel checked their uniforms, color guard equipment, and CAP banner prior to walking to the squadron’s assigned spot. The temperature that day was hovering in the low nineties, so water and other drinks were issued out to all concerned before the start of the parade. Mrs. Marla Lynch, mother of Cadet Scott Lynch and his sister Bridgette provided water while trailing behind the formation with their small wagon.

At about 1505 hours 2Lt Saavedra ordered Cadet Connolly to move his squadron to spot #73 and wait for the parade to begin, taking advantage of a nearby shade tree to wait under.

After waiting about 40 minutes, the squadron officially entered the parade marching behind the United States Air Force Color Guard Team from March Air Reserve Base, Riverside, CA. The squadron was led by the 2Lt Saavedra and Capt Ammann holding a CAP banner. Next in line was the Squadron 144 Color Guard, and finally the Parade Flight to the cheers of onlookers and spectators. Numerous shouts of "Go Civil Air Patrol", "Thank you for your service" and "Squadron 144 you rock” were heard from the crowd throughout the 1¼ mile parade route. It was also noticed that the spectators along the sides of the street stood up, removed their hats, and placed their hand upon their heart as the USAF Color Guard approached.

The highlight of the parade was passing before the reviewing stand and hearing the parade announcer introduce us as, "A first time entry of the United States Air Force Auxiliary, Civil Air Patrol, San Diego Cadet Squadron 144, emphasizing aerospace education, emergency services and cadet programs since 1941. Visit them at cap.gov". At the appropriate moment the Cadet Commander gave the command, "Eyes Left!" as the squadron marched past the reviewing stand, looking very sharp!

The parade included several high school marching bands, numerous vintage and historical vehicles, all branches of the military and their respective color guard units, numerous veterans organizations, several highly decorated retired military members, including a medal of honor recipient, and several medal of valor awardees, public representatives, the Mayor of San Diego, and dozens of community organizations.

At 1650 hours the squadron marched to the dispersal area and came to a halt where the command to “Fall Out!” was given. Everyone gathered for a few group photos which included MSgt Mendoza from the March ARB Color Guard. He came over to congratulate the cadets about how well they marched, their military appearance, and bearing and that his color guard was very honored to march in front of San Diego Cadet Squadron 144. The feeling was mutual as the squadron also felt honored to be led by the sharpest military color guard in the entire parade.

Closing announcements and congratulations were extended to the cadets and their contribution to this high public relations profile event for CAP and Cadet Squadron 144 in particular. Grateful acknowledgments were made to all the parents gathered who supported their cadets to make this an outstanding event.

Special acknowledgments went to Mrs. Jen Murphy, Mrs. Barbara Saavedra, Mrs. Kuei-Mei Ammann, Mrs. Marla Lynch and Miss Bridgette Lynch for their individual contributions of refreshments, water wagon escort, billfold, cell phone caddie, and staying alert for any needs of the cadets during the parade route.

Respectfully submitted,
2nd Lt David Saavedra

Allen Airways Flying Museum Trip

2007-05-29T22:16:00.000-07:00

The following Cadet Squadron 144 assembled next to the Gillespie Field Airport Air Traffic Control Tower at 1830 hours, 29 May 2007 for a tour of Mr. Bill Allen’s hangar:

Senior Members
LtCol Ben Aaron
Capt Dennis Ammann
SM David Saavedra

Cadets
C/2Lt Matthew Corey
C/2Lt Joseph Connolly
C/SMSgt Douglas Saavedra
C/MSgt Chandra Murphy
C/SrAmn Daniel Gorin
C/A1c Laura Brown
C/A1c Joe Culver
C/Amn Chris Riha
C/Amn Eric Johnson
C/Amn Marshall Bryan
C/Amn Spencer Beaulieu
C/AB Erika Goodall
C/AB Anthony Tavan
C/AB Andrew Elsken
C/AB Kevin Mihalik
C/AB Scott Lynch

The group then walked around to the front of the hangar in front of runway 27L where Mr. Bill Allen greeted the cadets and senior members and introduced himself. He also introduced Barney his faithful ‘wing cat’ who actually patrols the hangar for unauthorized rodents and other riff-raff. Throughout the evening Barney followed behind looking for a gentle rub along his back and neck.

Mr. Allen is a past president of the International Aerospace Hall of Fame (SD Air & Space Museum portrait gallery) and on the Board of Directors, San Diego Air & Space Museum for almost 30 years, contributes a breadth of knowledge from his 45 years as an aviation enthusiast and accomplished collector of aircraft and aviation artifacts. So internationally regarded is the Allen Airways Flying Museum collection, it serves as the exclusive provider for the 32 vintage posters featured in the Smithsonian Institution companion exhibition "Looping the Loop: Posters of Early Flight." All of the exhibition's posters are presented in his book. Other designs from the Allen collection are also included among the book's featured artworks.

Mr. Allen started his tour with a walk around of a Stearman PT-17 Kaydet and one other in a civilian configuration. His knowledge and history of this Boeing WWII primary training is fascinating, relating all facets about this bi-plane. He then switched to his immaculate Cessna C-182 Skylane, pointing out the extra features he included on this plane, i.e., variable pitch prop, short take-off landing (STOL) kit, and ailerons that extend down as additional flaps, etc. Next was his Ryan PT-22 Recruit made right here in San Diego prior to WWII. Mr. Allen related how the wings are slightly swept back and the dangers students had if they stalled the aircraft. He also has another PT-22 with Dutch East Indies WWII markings in restoration up in northern California. Next to this pristine trainer was a display case with WWI medals and awards inside. One of particular interest was a German Blue Max, the highest decoration a German fighter pilot could receive! Another interesting aircraft being stored in this hangar was an Australian Firefly AS-6 anti-submarine warfare aircraft made by Fairy Aircraft Co. This single engine fighter looks like a WWII Supermarine Spitfire on steroids! It was a carrier based plane operating during the late 1940s and early 1950s.

For the next portion of the tour, Mr. Allen led us into a small room with flight gear, uniforms, aviation paintings, aviation movie/air show posters, WWI machine aircraft machine guns, helmets, goggles, antique aircraft models, and various other interesting pieces of historical artifacts.

A short walk to the lounge portion of the hangar, Mr. Allen pointed out several trophies won by pilots during the 1930s and one trophy in particular that was awarded to a British WWI fighter pilot who shot down a Zeppelin during a bombing raid over London.

As we entered another large room, a display case exhibited numerous mementos from the German Zeppelin Hindenburg. There were boarding tickets, a piece of the girder, and other items of interest from this famous air ship. Also parked inside, a third Stearman bi-plane, silver in color, and in mint condition. This plane has been awarded many trophies in the past during antique fly-ins for the best restoration/best of show; a real beauty!

The last stop was his personal theater where lush chairs and sofas awaited us for a quick review of the 2002 Czechoslovakian made movie, “Dark Blue World”, about Czech pilots who fled Nazi occupied Europe to fly for the British during the Battle of Britain and throughout WWII. The sound in his theater was so realistic; we were ducking as the Spitfires were flying overhead!

At about 2030 hours everyone gathered back in the main hangar for a group photo next to one of the Stearman bi-planes with Mr. and Mrs. Allen and of course Barney the “wing cat.” We thanked Mr. Allen and his lovely wife Claudia for inviting us into their “hangar home” and expanding our knowledge of aviation history.

San Diego is a gold mine, rich in aviation history, where the general public can learn all about aerospace at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, their annex at Gillespie Field Airport, the Marine Air Museum at MCAS Miramar, and USS Midway Museum. We were very fortunate to be invited to Mr. Allen’s hangar for another glimpse of aviation history spanning from the Wright Brothers to artifacts of today. What a wonderful gentleman, pilot, and unofficial Mayor of Gillespie Field to open his private collection for this excellent aerospace education opportunity.