Command Corner

Click on Document name at the left.

COLONEL JAMES FINLAYSON

Colonel James "Cobra" Finlayson is the Commander, Air Force Technical Applications Center, Patrick Space Force Base, Fla. AFTAC operates and maintains the United States Atomic Energy Detection System to monitor foreign compliance with various treaties limiting nuclear testing. The focus of AFTAC's more than 1,000 professionals is to detect special events in the atmosphere, underwater, underground, and in space to determine if they are nuclear and to report them to U.S. senior decision makers.

Colonel Finlayson received his commission in 1997 from the United States Air Force Academy. Prior to assuming command of the Department of Defense's sole nuclear treaty monitoring center, Colonel Finlayson was the Vice Commander of the 17th Training Wing at Goodfellow AFB, Texas, serving as the principal assistant to the Wing Commander and overseeing two training groups, a mission support group, and a medical group. He also directed 13 wing staff agencies and managed $1.5 billion in real property, equipment, supplies and contracts. Additionally, Colonel Finlayson served as the Chief of Staff, J2 Directorate for Intelligence, U.S. Strategic Command located at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. Previous leadership assignments include serving as the Commander of National Air and Space Intelligence Center's Regional Threats Analysis Squadron and as the Director of Operations for U.S. Strategic Command's Joint Intelligence Operations Center. He has forward deployed on five occasions to Egypt, Qatar, Iraq, and Afghanistan in support of Operations Bright Star, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

EDUCATION
1997 Bachelor of Science, History, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colo.
2000 Professional Masters of Business Administration, Troy University, Troy, Alabama
2002 Squadron Officer's School, Maxwell AFB, Ala.
2006 Air Command and Staff College, by correspondence
2008 Juris Doctor, cum laude, Boyd School of Law, University of Nevada Las Vegas
2010 Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, Ala.
2011 Air War College, by correspondence
2016 Doctor of Philosophy, summa cum laude, Organizational Development and Leadership, University of the Rockies, Denver, Colo.

ASSIGNMENTS
1. May 1997 - June 1998, Admissions Advisor, Directorate of Admissions, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colo.
2. June 1998 - March 1999, Student, 315th Technical Training Squadron, Goodfellow AFB, Texas
3. March 1999 - May 2001, Chief, Intelligence, 9th Fighter Squadron, Holloman AFB, N.M.
4. May 2001 - December 2003, Command Briefer/Analyst, U.S. Central Command, Tampa, Fla.
5. December 2003 - January 2007, Flight Commander, 547th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Squadron, Nellis AFB, Nev.
6. January 2007 - July 2009, Operations Officer, Functional Analysis Division, Security and Intelligence Directorate, U.S. Southern Command, Miami, Fla.
7. July 2009 - July 2010, Student, Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, Ala.
8. July 2010 - July 2012, Wing Senior Intelligence Officer, 35th Fighter Wing, Misawa Air Base, Japan
9. July 2012 - July 2015, Deputy Division Chief, Targeting, Joint Staff J2, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
10. July 2015 - July 2017, Commander, Regional Threats Analysis Squadron, NASIC, WrightPatterson, Ohio
11. July 2017 - July 2018, Deputy Commander, 365th ISR Group, Nellis AFB, Nev.
12. July 2018 - July 2019, Director of Operations, U.S. Strategic Command, JIOC, Offutt AFB, Neb.
13. July 2019 - May 2020, Chief of Staff, J2 Directorate for Intelligence, U.S. Strategic Command, Offutt AFB, Neb.
14. May 2020 - May 2022, Vice Commander, 17th Training Wing, Goodfellow AFB, Texas
15. June 2022 - Present, Commander, Air Force Technical Applications Center, Patrick SFB, Fla.

SUMMARY OF JOINT ASSIGNMENTS
May 2001 - December 2003, USCENTCOM, Tampa, Fla., as a captain
January 2007 - July 2009, USSOUTHCOM, Miami, Fla., as a major
July 2012 - July 2015, Joint Staff J2, Pentagon, Washington, D.C., as a lieutenant colonel
July 2019 - May 2020, USSTRATCOM, Offutt AFB, Neb., as a colonel

MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Defense Superior Service Medal
Legion of Merit
Defense Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster
Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters
Joint Service Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters
Air Force Commendation Medal
Joint Service Achievement Medal
Air Force Achievement Medal

EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Second Lieutenant May 28, 1997
First Lieutenant May 28, 1999
Captain May 28, 2001
Major Dec. 1, 2006
Lieutenant Colonel March 1, 2012
Colonel Sept. 1, 2018
(Current as of June 2022)

Chief Jerome Wright Biography

Chief Master Sergeant Jerome S. Wright is Command Chief, Air Force Technical Applications Center, Patrick Space Force Base, Fla., where he advises the AFTAC wing commander on matters concerning the readiness, utilization, training, morale and welfare of the 1,000-member center and its 14 detachments around the globe who support AFTAC's international nuclear treaty monitoring activities. AFTAC operates and maintains the United States Atomic Energy Detection System to monitor foreign compliance with various treaties limiting nuclear testing. AFTAC is also the designated U.S. laboratory system that provides technical support to the United Nations' International Atomic Energy Agency.

Chief Wright was born in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and raised in Virginia Beach, Va. He entered the Air Force in July of 2000. His background includes various duties in missile and space systems electronic maintenance, electronic systems security assessment, operations intelligence, and geospatial intelligence targeting career fields. He has deployed in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, and Operation UNIFIED PROTECTOR. Prior to assuming his current position, Chief Wright was the superintendent and chief enlisted manager of the 11th Special Operations Intelligence Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Okaloosa County, Fla.

Education Chief Leadership Course, Gunter Annex-Maxwell Air Force Base, Montgomery, Ala. (2020)

Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education II, Joint Forces Staff College, by correspondence (2019)

USAF Continuous Process Improvement Green Belt Course, Goodfellow Air Force Base, San Angelo, Texas (2017)

USAF Master Resilience Trainer Course, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, Burlington County, N.J. (2017)

USAF Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Gunter Annex-Maxwell Air Force Base, Montgomery, Ala. (2016)

AETC Basic Instructor Course, Goodfellow Air Force Base, San Angelo, Texas (2015)

Bachelor of Science, Human Resource Management and Organizational Development, University of Maryland, College Park, Md. (2015)

Senior Enlisted ISR Master Skills Course, Goodfellow Air Force Base, San Angelo, Texas (2013)

Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education, Joint Forces Staff College, by correspondence (2013)

Associates in Intelligence Studies and Technology, Community College of the Air Force, Montgomery, Ala. (2013)

Associates in Electronic Systems Technology, Community College of the Air Force, Montgomery, Ala. (2013)

Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Kapaun Air Station, Germany (2011)

Joint Battle Damage Assessment Course, Joint Targeting School, Va. (2010)

Collateral Damage Estimation Course, U.S. Army Garrison Heidelberg, Germany (2009)

Dynamics of International Terrorism, USAF Special Operations School (2007)

Information Warfare Application Course, Maxwell AFB, Ala. (2007)

Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Maintenance Instructor Course, Francis E. Warren AFB, Wyo. (2005)

Airman Leadership School, Francis E. Warren AFB, Wyo. (2005)

Professional Experience
Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Commandant and Career Field Manager for Academy Military Trainers (8B200), Cadet Wing, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colo. (Jan. 2021-Present)

Command Chief, Commandant of Cadets, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colo. (Nov. 2020-Jan. 2021)

Superintendent, 11th Special Operations Intelligence Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Okaloosa County, Fla. (July 2019-Nov. 2020)

Operations Superintendent, 315th Training Squadron, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Tom Green County, Texas (July 2016-July 2019)

Course Chief, Advanced Targeting Courses, 315th Training Squadron, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Tom Green County, Texas (Oct. 2015-July 2016)

Superintendent, ISR Programs and Resources, HQ USAFE-AFAFRICA Intelligence Directorate, Ramstein Air Base, Germany; Acting Intelligence Inspector, HQ USAFE-AFAFRICA Inspector General, Ramstein Air Base, Germany (April 2015- Sept. 2015); (June 2013-October 2015)

Section Chief, Targeting and Imagery Support, 603rd Air & Space Operations Center, Ramstein Air Base, Germany (Feb. 2012-June 2013)

NCOIC, Tactical Assessment, 603rd Air & Space Operations Center, Ramstein Air Base, Germany; Dynamic Targeting Chief, NATO Combined Air Operations Center, Poggio Renatico, Italy (Aug. 2011-Nov. 2011); (Aug. 2009-Feb. 2012)

NCOIC, Dynamic Targeting, 603rd Air & Space Operations Center, Ramstein Air Base, Germany; Shift NCOIC, Targeting Cell, Combined Air & Space Operations Center, Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar (June 2009-Dec. 2009); (June 2008-August 2009)

Student, Operations Intelligence Course, 315th Training Squadron, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Tom Green County, Texas (Oct. 2007-June 2008)

Electronic System Security Assessment Analyst, 68th Information Operations Squadron, Brooks-City Base, San Antonio, Texas (Oct. 2006-Oct. 2007)

Instructor, ICBM Electro-Mechanical Team, 90th Maintenance Operations Squadron, Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, Cheyenne, Wyo. (May 2005-Oct. 2006)

Team Chief, ICBM Electro-Mechanical Team, 90th Missile Maintenance Squadron, Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, Cheyenne, Wyo. (Jan. 2004-May 2005)

Technician, ICBM Electro-Mechanical Team, 90th Missile Maintenance Squadron, Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, Cheyenne, Wyo. (April 2001-Jan. 2004)

Student, Missile and Space System Electronic Maintenance Course, 532nd Training Squadron, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Lompoc, Cal. (Nov. 2000-March 2001)

Student, Electronic Principles Course, 344th Training Squadron, Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas (Aug. 2000-Nov. 2000)

Trainee, Basic Military Training, 324th Training Squadron, Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas (July 2000-Aug. 2000)

Honors & Awards
Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters
Joint Service Commendation Medal
Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster
Air Force Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster
Army Achievement Medal
Air & Space Campaign Medal
Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal with 'N' device
Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Border
Air Force Special Duty Ribbon
NATO Medal

OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS
Air Force Association Active Duty SNCO of the Year, State of Texas winner (2018)

AETC Training Support SNCO of the Year, 17th Training Wing (2017)

National Image Inc., Meritorious Service Award, 17th Training Wing (2017)

Blacks in Government Meritorious Service Award, 17th Training Wing (2017)

National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency Senior Enlisted of the Year Award, AETC (2016)

SNCO of the Year, HQ USAFE-AFAFRICA (2014)

AF ISR Awards Program SNCO of the Year, HQ USAFE-AFAFRICA Intelligence Directorate (2013)

Distinguished Graduate Award, Operations Intelligence Course, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas (2008)

AETC Commander's Top Graduate Award, Operations Intelligence Course, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas (2008)

Academic Achievement Award, Airman Leadership School, F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo. (2005)

Note from the Commander
By Col. James "Cobra" Finlayson

Greetings to all the AFTAC giants out there, past and present! I'm thrilled to have been asked to contribute a few words to your newsletter, especially since I have heard so much about your legacy, the alumni association as a whole, and your continued efforts to stay engaged with the workforce in a variety of ways.

I believe the Post Monitor editors are including my official biography in this quarter's newsletter, so I won't bore you with the details of my past military assignments, education and job titles. What my bio doesn't cover is something I like to refer to as "Cobra's Countdown" - sort of a list of rules to live by based on my philosophy of being a commander and an Air Force leader. I attribute a lot of who I am to how I was raised and where I came from. I was born in Heidelberg, Germany. My dad was an Army Warrant Officer, and like all military families, we moved around a lot. I call El Paso, Texas home since I graduated from Austin High School in 1993, and from there I was fortunate enough to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy. I spent the next 25-plus years traveling the world, applying my skills, contributing to the DOD mission, and meeting incredible people along the way. When I first sat down with my staff here at AFTAC, I relayed four parts of Cobra's Countdown: contact, initiative, communication, and balance. Pretty simple stuff when you boil it down, and I find that keeping things simple is a big key to success. Contact. I like to walk around a lot and ask questions. I'm inquisitive by nature, and I think one of the best ways to learn is to ask the experts about what they do, how they do it, and why it matters. I love learning new things every day!

Initiative. Quite frankly, the best ideas most often come from the bottom up, not from the top down. All too often I think senior leaders lose sight of that concept. As General Colin Powell aptly said, "Never let your ego get so close to your position that when your position goes, your ego goes with it." Communication. It is crucial! We live in a world where a constant stream of information - more like a GLUT of info - comes at us every hour of every day, whether it's email, texts, online messages, Tweets, Facebook posts, phone calls, or breaking news on TV. It's always coming at us. But I am a firm believer that communication should be tailored to ensure the person receiving needs it at that moment in time, or if it can wait.

Balance. As the saying goes, your personal life will long outlast your Air Force career, so it's important to make sure your life is in balance. I imagine those reading this are long since retired from active duty, and you know this saying better than most! Having a career is great, but having a balanced family life is even better.

And speaking of family life, I am blessed to be married to my amazing wife, Kristen, and we have two beautiful daughters together - Aurora and Audrey. They are the ones who bring balance to my life! I hope that gives you a little insight about me, and I'm looking forward to meeting you at one of the many AFTAC functions that our great alumni support during the year. Be sure to make a point of introducing yourself - I want to shake the hands of all the legends who are the foundation of AFTAC's continued success. Thanks for all you do to make our center better! Cheers,
Cobra

Commander's Weekly Note for 26 Oct 23
By Col. James "Cobra" Finlayson

Greetings, Team AFTAC! It is going to be a wild next couple of weeks with the events going on and visitors planned. We are currently hosting the AFTAC Mission Summit with over 400 people attending! It is an amazing opportunity for organizations to come to us to see the great work and capabilities that you all provide as well as a chance to build those lanes for further collaboration. Although everyone could not be here to attend, we wanted to ensure that you all had the opportunity to listen in on some the discussions that are going on. For all Green Badgers, if you have time in your day, look to come to the auditorium and watch the broadcast.

Our AFTACer of the week is Mr. Austin Hale from Strategic Integration's Exploitation and Development Branch. Austin is the Senior Technician at SIME's Rapid Development Shop at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS). Hailing from Eua Gallie FL, by way of Barboursville WV, then back to Brevard County, Austin joined AFTAC in 2013. Before AFTAC, Austin spent 7 years as a fish pathology technician at an aquaculture facility, 13 years as an Associate Scientist at a microbiology research laboratory, 5 years as a Lead Field Biologist with a biofuel startup company, and 1 summer driving an oil rig supply boat in the Gulf of Mexico. Over these years, Austin did plenty of field work that took him from the back trails of Florida to Suriname. Since joining AFTAC, Austin has worked in the CRL, TMS, and now SI. For SI in 2019, Austin took an abandoned and dilapidated building at CCSFS, Bldg. 1069, and helped create a multi-purpose rapid development facility that can take a project all the way from whiteboard to prototype. His role as the "building super" for 1069 is multifaceted and includes project work and oversight of the building's EESOH-MIS, Hazardous Waste, and Safety Programs. We are lucky to have him as part of SI!

I would like to give a warm welcome back to 1st Lt Ashley Parker (24th ANS) who recently returned from a 6-month deployment supporting a joint command. While there, she served as a lead analyst on a joint staff providing scientific insight into adversary WMD programs. Her hard work reinforced AFTAC's relationships with the operational community and has forged new ones as well. We are glad to have you back, and I look forward to seeing you around the building!

709 CYS and all of AFTAC would like to welcome home A1C Patrick Madeira! He is returning from a 6 month deployment in Southwest Asia.


Ms. Kelly Hartley and Dr. Brent Matteson of the Harkins Laboratory Complex led chemistry demonstrations to 250 students from Timberview Middle School over the weekend in Colorado Springs. They were also able to set up a solar telescope that allowed everyone to safely view the recent solar eclipse. If you unfortunately missed this solar eclipse, there will be another opportunity on April 24, 2024, for those in United States to see it again!


The CIL also said goodbye to TSgt Mauldin as he transitions to the 23rd ANS. TSgt Mauldin was a primary driver of many data science and process improvement efforts over the past few years. We may be sad to see him go but it is certain that he will excel in his new position and bring great things to the 23d.


On Friday, the IG office also held a going away lunch for TSgt Varvel before he heads off to start his SkillBridge and new career. Following SkillBridge, TSgt Varvel will be returning to Tucson, Arizona to join the Air National Guard as a Remotely Piloted Aircraft pilot. Thank you for the work you have given to AFTAC and best of luck in your new career and new mission!

I had the privilege to coin Mr. Sean Phillips, A1C Kyle Malston (CYS), Mr. Tyler Bailey, Mr. Paul Huffman, and Mr. Tadaichi Milburn (SPTS) for their efforts in the IRT office Standup! Their planning, coordinating, and installation of network accesses were instrumental in ensuring our IRT office has the resources necessary to take care of our AFTAC family!

TSgt Jeffery Stokes was coined by Col Brow, 709 SAG Commander, for a TS phone outage. Through his quick thinking, TSgt Stokes was able to turn a 5 day outage into 5 minutes! Thank you for ensuring that we can continue to have clear comms with our external partners, and great work! A combination of 40 total 709 TMXS Materials Maintenance Team Krakens, CCSD Depot-level personnel, and contractors gathered 17-19 October for the first Materials Technical Interchange Meeting since 2019 at CCSD in San Antonio, TX. The group discussed several hot button materials maintenance updates and best practices, solidifying their continued amazing support to AFTAC's key missions!

The Bi-annual AFTAC Alumni Golf n'Get Together may have been delayed a couple weeks ago, but we were able to push through and hold this event last Friday at the Manatee Golf Course. There was a great turnout with 23 teams, 92 people, enjoying the beautiful fall Florida weather, and Chief Wright and I were able to meet with many of the players before they set off on their rounds. Thank you to the Tides catering staff for providing the food for the players, and thank you to Chief (ret) Ed Lindsay, the Alumni group, and all of our volunteers for putting on this fun, successful event.

This Friday we have another great opportunity to get outside, unwind, and enjoy some more friendly competition at the AFTAC Fall Picnic and Toilet Bowl at the Viera Regional Park! There will be plenty of activities including corn hole, pick-up ultimate frisbee, and, of course, soft ball. The playground and pumpkin painting will be available for the kids, so bring out the whole family. I can't wait to see everyone there!

V/r

Cobra

JAMES "COBRA" FINLAYSON, Colonel, USAF
Commander, AFTAC
Patrick Space Force Base, FL
W: (321) 494-2334
DSN: 854-2334

Commander's Weekly Note for 01 Nov 23
By Col. James "Cobra" Finlayson

Howdy Team AFTAC!

A very Happy belated Halloween and now a Happy Day of the Dead to one and all! Once again, AFTAC has shown we know how to play as hard as we work with the amazing costumes yesterday and Friday's Fall Fest. A great turn out and amazing weather. Congratulations to the team of SI & SD on taking this year's prize! Kudos to Capt Jorge Colon Soto (709 CYS), Mr. Joseph "Brandon" Taylor (SD), Capt Kai Billings (22 SURS), SSgt Dawnika Jones (22 SURS), and their team for organizing Friday's Fall Fest and Fall Toilet Bowl.

The AFTAC Mission Summit took place 24-25 October at NGA Washington in Springfield, VA. This strategic posture review and technical road mapping included capability briefings against key elements of the AFTAC vision statement as well as discussion panels comprised of stakeholders around the community. The event was attended by 350 people from over 40 different organizations. Special thanks to Lt Col Scott Carlin (SD) and Ms. Kristina Unis (709 SAG) for organizing the Logistics and Mission Advancement committees and assisting the ST Office in expanding the AFTAC R&D Forum into the AFTAC Mission Summit.

Our AFTACer of the week is Capt Abdel Barka, a chaplain assigned to AFTAC. Although originally from Benin Republic in West Africa, Capt Barka embraced Alexandria, Virginia, as his hometown where he has melded his rich cultural heritage with the essence of the American Life. His assignment to AFTAC sets him apart as the first embedded Chaplain ever since its activation in 1959. With Chaplain Barka's extraordinary life journey of surviving immense trauma and hardship, he now devotes himself to helping Airmen and Guardians find their own strength and resilience. His personal story is a powerful source of inspiration, providing a beacon of hope for those who have faced adversity and hardship. Chaplain Barka exemplifies the transformative power of faith and determination, proving that even in the face of darkness, one can find light and purpose. Through his compassionate guidance and unwavering support, he empowers Airmen and Guardians to overcome their own challenges and emerge stronger. His dedication to helping our military forces build resilience is a profound testament to the indomitable nature of the human soul and the healing power of sharing one's own journey to inspire and uplift others.

The AFTAC Mission Orientation is hosted at Patrick SFB every 6 months to educate mission partners about our capabilities and efforts. Strategic Integration Relationships Branch (SIRR) successfully executed the Fall 2023 AMO from 17-20 October. 60 external mission partners, to include four distinguished visitors, from 31 agencies across the world attended the 4-day event that provided 28 briefings starting with AFTAC's traditional mission and then diving into details of the different mission areas across the Center. AMO included a Tuesday evening social attended by 55 visitors and AFTACers, and the event concluded with a tour of Cape Canaveral's Historic site attended by 35 partners. Participants provided overwhelming positive feedback that the event was a success, and they look forward to future interactions in the operational and R&D arenas. A special shout-out to the entire SIRR and 2Lt Olga Zubak (CIL) for making this vital event another success!

On Thursday, 26 October, the Space Coast Chiefs' Group hosted their annual golf tournament at the Manatee Cove Golf Course. Over 20 teams attended and the AFTAC Weather folks provided great weather, albeit a little more wind than optimal. The scores were low, and spirits were high! Proceeds from this event will be used by the Chiefs' Group to sponsor various events across base including the SNCO Induction Ceremony, Chief Induction Ceremony, and Junior Enlisted Appreciation Day to name a few. Thank you to everyone who participated!

Congratulations to Capt's Matthew McGuire (22 SURS), Dylan Kelly (SI), and Patrick Flynn (TMXS) on successful completion of Squadron Officer School (SOS). Graduates of SOS return to their units with an enhanced understanding of institutional competencies, leadership actions, and key elements of reasoning required to fly, fight, and win in the 21st Century. Capt Flynn was recognized as a Distinguished Graduate, placing him among the top 10% of all SOS students in his class. Well done to all of you!

The Aces are happy to announce that SrA Michael Smith (709 SPTS/CCQ) and his wife Destiny welcomed their baby boy, Alijah Maveric Smith on 21 October. Alijah weighed in at 8 lb. 12 oz and measured at 20 inches long. Baby and mother are doing well!

This Saturday morning (Friday night)/4 Nov 23 @ 0145 will be the final Honor Flight of 2023; the next flight will not be until April 2024. All AFTAC employees are welcome and encouraged to come out to speak with/meet a Veteran of The Korean War or Vietnam War; come out to show your support of them and the sacrifices they made which allow us to enjoy the freedoms we often take for granted. Military members are reminded to be in uniform. Questions can be directed to either Mr. Callan (A1M) or SMSgt Gould (709 CYS).

Today we are hosting Brig Gen Jonathan Rice IV, the Director of ISR Operations, for a mission immersion. His office oversees the development of future ISR concepts and capabilities, and we can show him the importance of our no-fail mission. In two weeks, we will be hosting Gen Anthony Cotton (USSTRATCOM/CC) and his SEL SgtMaj Howard Kreamer on 16 Nov, and there will be an AFTAC All Call at 1530 in the AFTAC Auditorium for us to hear from Gen Cotton. These are two great opportunities for AFTACers to communicate our specialties and impacts with the higher commands.

Thank you all for all the amazing work you accomplish on and off site!

V/r

Cobra

JAMES "COBRA" FINLAYSON, Colonel, USAF
Commander, AFTAC
Patrick Space Force Base, FL
W: (321) 494-2334
DSN: 854-2334

Commander's Weekly Note for 07 Nov 23
By Col. James "Cobra" Finlayson

Howdy Team AFTAC!

I am currently attending the Fall 16AF Senior Leadership Summit (SLS) down in San Antonio. From the last 16AF SLS in May, I came back with some great insight from Lt Gen Kennedy and shared a key point about his focus on messaging and audience. We have our internal audience, the American audience, and our adversaries. It is important to be able to form the message properly, and I see that daily as I hear back from the various visitors that we host each week. I look forward to sharing more great insight when I return.

Last week we had the privilege of hosting Brig Gen Rice, Director of ISR Operations, here at AFTAC. He was greatly impressed by the knowledge and strategies we have for bringing this Center into the future in regard to our data strategy and what that means for this global, 24/7 no-fail mission. He was extremely vocal in asking how he can help us, and because of you all, we made that message clearer than ever. Keep up the great work!

In our effort to support SLD 45, Brig Gen Kristin Panzenhagen (SLD 45/CC) will be in the building for the rest of the week for various meetings in our shared spaces with SLD 45. She is being escorted by Mr. Thomas Lovell (SLD 45/GSSO) when in the building.

Our AFTACer of the Week is SSgt Nam Tran, who has just joined the 23d Analysis Squadron after returning stateside in October from a Short Tour at a mission critical, foreign partner essential 709th TMXS Detachment in South Korea! Nam has excelled in training to become one of the DoDs newest US Nuclear Detonation Detection System satellite technique Alert Officers. He has strived to ensure the highest level of personal scientific and technical understanding in his role as a Space Data Analyst in a mission where his peers are Ph.D. researchers and Senior DAF Civilians. While in the Republic of Korea, SSgt Nam was an essential member of a 5-member global maintenance element as the lead trainer for his team while also responsible for training a contingent of 32 joint mission partner operators. His efforts directly assured a 96% uptime for a $42M surveillance network, which provided unique AFTAC nuclear surveillance capabilities for CCMDs, USG Senior Leaders, and international counterproliferation regime partners alike. The 23d welcomes SSgt Tran as our newest Raven!

Col Chris Lundy (709 SPTG/CC) and the 709 TMXS command triad of Lt Col Emily Pollard, CMSgt Matthew Wilkens, and MSgt John Sheffield visited Detachment 421 in Alice Springs, Australia. The team met with three US and Australian government partners, enjoyed a recreational hike with the det's dependents, and went out to see two equipment sites in the array. They surveyed one of the test sites for installing solar power and cellular communications upgrades that will improve data reliability and reduce technical maintenance requirements. After driving off road vehicles across treacherous terrain to the site with the highest elevation, the team hiked further up to the top of the ridgeline for a scenic overlook of the Australian outback. With that vista as the backdrop, Lt Col Pollard presented TSgt Beau Brennan (709 TMXS/Det 421) with the Air and Space Achievement Medal for his swift actions on 13 June 2023 when he directed efforts to save Det 421 from catastrophic damage threatened by a raging bush fire that was approaching satellite dishes and a facility worth over $1M.

Last week Mr. Dave Burns (CIL) chaired the 66th Annual Radiobioassay and Radiochemical Measurements Conference (RRMC) located in West Palm Beach, FL. Also in attendance from the CIL were Dr. Richard Reich, Ms. Samantha Borny, Ms. Stephanie Thorpe, 2Lt Olga Zubak, (S)Sgt Dale George, and SrA Lloyd Sloan. They represented AFTAC well in the radiochemistry community! Additionally, Ms. Julia Ignacek (SI) provided the Keynote address at the RRMC. Her keynote was titled "Technology Transition – Navigating the Complexities," and was to an audience of 180 attendees across academia and various agencies in the United States Government (USG). The keynote set out to answer 3 questions: 1) Why is technology transition so important to the USG? 2) Why is technology transition so difficult? and 3) What are we at AFTAC doing to navigate those complexities? Her address was met with broad excitement and several of the DOE National Lab participants in attendance said they wished they had heard her message before submitting proposals to AFTAC because they would have modified their proposals to address those questions and how their technologies would close operational needs.

In the regions of Alaska some AFTACers are already well into winter while those at AFTAC HQ are enjoying the more comfortable temperatures often seen this time of year. A1C Austin Wilmoth (709 TMXS/Det 460) configured a digitizer in the Eielson Seismic Array (ILAR) in late October 2023. The "Arctic Crusaders" at Det 460 battle the elements and operate offroad equipment like UTVs and snowmachines through the long Alaskan winter to keep ILAR's 20-sensor array operational and data flowing to National and International Data Centers (NDC/IDC).

Last week Lt Col Adam Ross and Lt Blake Hohman (23 ANS) supported the University of Florida, ROTC Detachment 150 at their annual Carrer Day in Gainesville, Florida. Along with 16 other active duty Airmen across numerous AFSCs, Lt Col Ross and Lt Hohman mentored over 80 cadets and potential future officers on topics related to their career fields, roles and responsibilities at AFTAC, experiences in past assignments, personal and professional advice as an officer, and other general Air Force topics. The event was a great success and was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Congratulations again to TSgt Stephen Schaefer (709 CYS) and the entire 709 CYS for being the firsts in AFTAC history to be selected as DAF finalists for the individual and organizational categories of the 2022 Frank B. Rowlett Awards. Good luck to them as they represent the Air Force at the inter-agency level - winners to be announced tomorrow, 8 November!

Over the weekend, the Space Coast Honor Flight honored 30 more war heroes from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam as they traveled to Washington, DC to visit the Nation's Memorials in the last Honor Flight of 2023 until they resume in April 2024. Capt Jorge Colon (709 CYS) represented the Officers and SMSgt Deborah GilillandSwartz (709 SPTS) spoke on behalf of the Enlisted. Of note, there were over 20 motorcycles from 3 different Veteran-affiliated bikers' groups. As we prepare for Veteran's Day, be on the lookout for an event near and dear to me: "Resiliency thru the eyes of two Vietnam War heroes". RADM (Ret) Hart, President of the Space Coast Honor Flight is also attending. The event will be on Friday, 17 Nov 23 from 1100-1200 in the Heritage Room; a flyer is forthcoming.

2Lt Christian Moody (SI) recently returned from the Air Force Fundamentals of Acquisition Management (FAM) course at Wright-Patterson AFB. FAM is a 14-day Initial Skills Training course for military and civilian acquisition professionals. This course provides a foundational understanding for basic project management skills and an overview of Air Force/DoD acquisitions. We are proud to welcome 2Lt Moody into our Acquisition Workforce!

Welcome home A1C Aidan Parkins he returned from a 6-month deployment to Southwest Asia.

The scores were low and spirits high at the annual golf tournament hosted by the Space Coast Chief's Group on 26 October. An add-on to last week's inputs is that the team of TSgt Jeffrey Stokes, TSgt Jamaar Meadows, SrA Brody Connon, and SrA Xavier Valencia (709 CYS) scored the lowest. Congratulations to this team of Cyberknights for coming in 1st place.

I know many of you will be preparing for your unit's Thanksgiving Potluck next week. While you all prepare to gather with your fellow members and convey what you are thankful for, here are some events next week occurring in the AFTAC Auditorium. On 15 November, we will be hosting the 363 ISRW for their Wing Leadership Summit and providing them with AFTAC insight. The next day we will be hosting Gen Anthony Cotton (USSTRATCOM/CC) and his CSEL SgtMaj Howard Kreamer, and there will be an AFTAC All Call at 1530 in Auditorium for us to hear from Gen Cotton. We are working on a VTC option for those who cannot attend in person. Be on the lookout for more information on this. Afterwards on 17 November, we will host our 3d Quarter Town Hall and Awards Ceremony at 1400 to celebrate all of you for efforts achieved since August's Town Hall.

Finally, please remember that Veteran's Day is coming up on Saturday, 11 November with the associated holiday being observed on Friday the 10th. Please take this time to thank all Veterans, past and present, for their service to this nation. I hope you all have a fantastic long weekend when it arrives.

V/r

Cobra

JAMES "COBRA" FINLAYSON, Colonel, USAF
Commander, AFTAC
Patrick Space Force Base, FL
W: (321) 494-2334
DSN: 854-2334

Commander's Weekly Note for 14 Nov 23
By Col. James "Cobra" Finlayson

Howdy Team AFTAC!

I am currently attending the Fall ACC Conference along with Chief Wright. From the 16AF SLS last week, I shared the importance of resiliency, mission, and retainment. Let's make sure each of us are taking the time to focus on our personal resiliency and giving our people the opportunity to do the same, especially during the holiday season. When we make the effort to take care of each other, we can come back stronger and work together at our best - as one team fighting one fight.

For those who still need to complete DEOCS for your units, be sure to express what you are thankful for in your culture as well as what your leaders can do better. The survey is a very important part of our feedback loop to ensure AFTAC's culture and work environment are optimized to enable superior mission accomplishment.

Our AFTACer of the Week is SrA Tamir Manson! He is a Client Systems Technician assigned to the 709th Cyberspace Squadron (CYS). Tamir was born and raised in the city of brotherly love, Philadelphia. Growing up he was constantly moving around to different schools and ended up going to Cheltenham High school. SrA Manson joined the Air Force because of the opportunities it gives to those who serve. His goals in life are to further his education, have a family, and mentor/lead Airmen as an NCO one day. He excelled during his 1-year stint with Patrick-Cape Honor Guard conducting details all over Florida. He even travelled to Jamaica and the Virgin Islands. As an AFTAC Service Desk technician, he is responsible for delivering communication support for all 1.2K AFTACers across 4 networks, ensuring data collection for the DoD's sole nuclear monitoring mission, safeguarding 3.6K sensors across 33 countries. Recently he went to Nellis AFB in support of the Red Flag Exercise and gained a great deal of experience of military/Air Force life outside of AFTAC. He worked with the host base Communications Squadron to provide communications support for air-combat training pilots and crews.

SSgt Tazmin James (709 CYS) also returned from a TDY to Nellis AFB in support of the Red Flag Exercise. Red Flag is a two-week advanced aerial combat training exercise held several times a year. It aims to offer realistic air-combat training for military pilots and other flight crew members from the United States and allied countries.

The 709th SPTS Machine Shop took delivery of a Haas TM2 CNC Milling center this week. The asset was a lateral transfer from Moody AFB and will provide a modernized update to the sections machining capability. The transfer was made possible by TSgt Justin Morris in coordination with our logistics flight, the 45th LRS and Moody's 23rd LRS. This modernized piece of equipment will replace the section's older CNC milling center and provide new manufacturing capabilities with nearly double the part size capacity. In further collaboration with the Patrick SFB equipment accountability element and the 920th Reserve Wing, the older CNC milling center will not be wasted as it has been transferred to the 920th Metals Technology Section, providing a much-needed update to their aging equipment fleet.

Huge kudos again to the 709 CYS and Cyber Knight TSgt Stephen Schaefer for making AFTAC history last week by being DAF finalists and winners of the 2022 Frank B. Rowlett Awards for the Individual and Organizational Categories! The Frank B. Rowlett Award is a national-level award administered by NSA for government individuals and organizations whose efforts have significantly enhanced the advancement of Cybersecurity in security-related areas. The Frank B. Rowlett Trophy for Organizational Achievement is awarded to the federal government organization that makes the most significant contributions to the improvement of national cybersecurity; operational cybersecurity readiness; or the defensive cybersecurity operations posture of the United States.

SSgt Daniel Felipe (709 SPTS) was selected as SLD 45's TOP III Superior Performer for the month of September (selection occurs on the 3rd week of each month for the prior month). He was selected over his peers amongst 74 units throughout the greater Space Coast region for his exceptional performance during the month of September when he was deployed in support of the Center's WC-135R PACOM mission. While in in the AOR, SSgt Felipe provided critical logistical expertise to the team ensuring uninterrupted operations for the duration of the deployment. Additionally, he forward deployed due to a local Typhoon and directed the local Transportation office at Yokota AB for the buildup and shipment of spheres back to the states. Omedetou, SSgt Feilpe!

Congratulations to Mr. Jose Zavala and TSgt Nicholas Glutz (709 TMXS) on completing the Center's First Sergeants Symposium hosted by the Patrick Professional Development Center from 23 - 27 October! Mr. Zavala and TSgt Glutz learned first-hand the roles and responsibilities of a First Sergeant, how to take care of Airmen, and the resources used to do so. They tackled numerous administrative subjects and learned the importance of thinking situations through, paying attention to all possible outcomes, and understanding they may have to make career-defining choices. They took part in seminars on leadership, communication, teamwork, and decision-making, all of which was bolstered by exercises and workshops. We look forward to the new ways that you will be able to help the Center and your Airmen in the future!

Congratulations to MSgt Lucas Klodt and MSgt Zachary Arbuckle (709 SPTS) on completing the AFTAC Senior Enlisted Leader (SEL) Symposium that was held on 30 October - 03 November! MSgt Klodt and MSgt Arbuckle walked away with leadership tools they need to successfully accomplish the mission, develop Airmen, and provide support to the families as they fill-in as SELs or become future SELs.

Congratulations to 2d Lt Olga Zubak (CIL) for completing the Nuclear Policy Course at the Defense Nuclear Weapons Schoolhouse. The course covered the evolution of US Nuclear Policy as well as deterrence theories/strategies against our major adversaries.

The Unicorns and Phoenixes are happy to announce that Dr. Andrew Giminaro (24 ANS) and Mrs. Farrar Giminaro (21 SURS) welcomed their baby girl, Lucille Giminaro on 4 November. Lucille weighed in at 7 lbs. Baby and mother are both doing well!

As we gather with our units this week or next to give thanks at a Thanksgiving Potluck, here are few things I am thankful for. I am proud to be the commander of this establishment and conquer the many challenges we face with high-caliber aptitude. We have been able to demonstrate our expertise and capabilities to the numerous visitors throughout the year. This Thursday we have the opportunity to engage with Gen Anthony Cotton (USSTRATCOM/CC) and his CSEL SgtMaj Howard Kreamer along with the team he brings, and then we are hosting an All Call for him at 1530 in the AFTAC auditorium. This is a prodigious chance for us to create better coordination with STRATCOM and hear how our no-fail mission truly provides a combatant command with crucial strategic information for our National Defense.

I am also thankful for the tremendous support AFTAC has shown at the Honor Flights this past year. In total, we were able to honor 178 war heroes from WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War. It was a true experience to be a Guardian for the October Honor Flight, and I encourage more leaders to become Guardians and members to continue expressing AFTAC support when Honor Flights resume in 2024. And it is with distinct pleasure that I will be hosting RADM (Ret) Jim Hart, President of Space Coast Honor Flight, and two Vietnam War heroes who volunteered to come in for a Q&A about the difficulties, challenges, and extreme wartime situations during and after the Vietnam War. This will occur Friday from 1100 - 1200 in the Heritage Hall. Be on the lookout for the flyer in the Wednesday Weekly for more information. I encourage all to come out and hear first-hand testimonies from these American Heroes.

Lastly, I am thankful for the resiliency of our members and the esprit de corps we show at events throughout the year. AFTACers sure can play as hard as we work, and when unfortunate accidents do happen, the AFTAC family rallies together and truly expresses the support our members need and deserve. Whether its individual flights/divisions or squadrons/staffs or groups/directorates competing for the pride of their own units, our members sure can show fierce competitive spirt for the Cobra Cup, but they also make cooperative coalitions for the mission, the community, and for the AFTAC family. I know several of you have Thanksgiving potlucks this Friday but let us all come together as a Center for my 3rd Quarter Town Hall and Awards Ceremony at 1400 in the AFTAC auditorium. We will highlight many individuals, teams, and accomplishments since August.

V/r

Cobra

JAMES "COBRA" FINLAYSON, Colonel, USAF
Commander, AFTAC
Patrick Space Force Base, FL
W: (321) 494-2334
DSN: 854-2334

Commander's Weekly Note for 21 Nov 23
By Col. James "Cobra" Finlayson

Team AFTAC!

Last Thursday we had the amazing opportunity to have the Commander, Command Senior Listed Leader, and J3 Director of USSTRATCOM all under the AFTAC roof. Gen Cotton was very familiar with the core AFTAC mission and capabilities having been the 45 Space Wing Commander from 2011-2013, but he was blown away by the direction you all have taken this Center since then. He was able to clearly see the value that the AFTAC enterprise could bring not only to his mission, but to the DoD enterprise as a whole. Congratulations to the following AFTACers for their recognition by Gen Cotton on the impactful work that they have been doing and also to those acknowledged by SgtMaj Kreamer on their outstanding accomplishments. See the 16 AF Article here.

Coined by Gen Cotton
1st Lt Blake Hohman (23 ANS)
Mr. Jared Stein (22 SURS)
Mr. Christopher Wolfe (21 SURS)
Mr. Leslie Moore (23 ANS)
2d Lt Piper Gray (CIL)

Coined by SgtMaj Kreamer
SSgt Rohan Deb (21 SURS)
SrA Alexander Carey (22 SURS)
Amn Robert Blibo (709 CYS)

And big kudos for the amazing work by Capt Bryan Egner (21 SURS), Capt Gregory Egger (24 ANS), and their entire team in coordinating and putting together this visit! I am honored to announce the AFTAC 3Q23 Award Winners:
Airman: SrA Christian Padilla (709 TMXS)
NCO: SSgt Kyle Carpenter (21 SURS/Det 1)
SNCO: SMSgt Manuel Campo (709 TMXS/Det 402)
CGO: Capt Adam Bordeau (709 SPTG/Det 1)
FGO: Maj Nathaniel Anderson (22 SURS/Det 45)
CAT I: Mr. Michael Kim (709 SPTS)
CAT II: Mr. Brian Caliva (709 SPTS)
CAT III: Ms. Audrey Capps (A1)
Team: Maintenance Support Flight (709 SPTS)

Congratulations to all nominees and winners as the competition for these awards is fierce and speaks to the high level of performance that this Center sustains. In addition to the nominees and winners, huge thanks to the supervisors who wrote their packages as well as their coworkers and subordinates for supporting them. We had a busy Quarter for events, engagements, and fun to round out the Fall season. I provided Letter of Appreciations to 9 teams: 14N Senior Visit that Shorts dubbed Col Palooza, 9/11 Retreat Ceremony, Nuclear Science Merit Badge, Project Quesada, Punkin' Chunkin', Fall AFTAC Mission Orientation, AFTAC Mission Summit, AFTAC Fall Fest & Toilet Bowl, and Business Center. The efforts, coordination, and success of these events is truly appreciated. Thank you again to all who helped out on those teams. The following AFTACers are lauded for their feat of achieving a new milestone in civil service:

10 Years
Dr. Ryan Cress (CIL/OL-GT)
Mr. Rob Eder (21 SURS)
Dr. Jason Jordan (21 SURS)
Mr. Gregory Johnson (23 ANS)
Mr. Brian Pope (23 ANS)
Mr. Seven Shelly (709 SPTG/Det 1)
Mr. Wade Stockton (709 CYS)

20 Years
Mr. Douglas Dale (709 SPTS)
Mr. Gregg Hennessy (SI)
Mr. George Mirda (709 TMXS)
Mr. Terry Sandefur (709 SPTS)
Mr. Thomas Vandemark (23 ANS)
Mr. Julio Villafuerte (SI)

40 Years
Mr. John Lucas (21 SURS)

Additionally, congratulation to all our Ironman event winners, top performers, and especially to the CIL for defending their status as top unit during the intense competition. All information for names and categories is listed in the attachment. All photos from the Town Hall can be found at S:\AFTAC\AFTAC_PA\ EVENT_IMAGERY\ 20231117_3Q23_AFTAC_TownHall.

In case anyone missed my email earlier in the week, I announced that we've won 4 of the 16 categories for the Headquarters Air Combat Command (HQ ACC) nomination for the 2023 Air Force Outstanding Science and Engineering Award! Congratulations again to the following winners on this enormous accomplishment! Mr. Joseph Papczynski (23 ANS) -- Junior Civilian AF Outstanding Scientist & Engineer
Mr. Thomas VanDeMark (23 ANS) -- Mid-Career Civilian AF Outstanding Scientist & Engineer
Capt Adam Bordeau (709 SPTG/Det 1) -- Junior Military AF Outstanding Scientist & Engineer
Maj Daniel Koch (709 SPTG/Det 1) -- Mid-Career Military AF Outstanding Scientist & Engineer
They will now represent HQ ACC at the Department of the Air Force (DAF) STEM awards competition. Please wish them and all our winners congratulations next chance you get.

With award announcements complete, let's see what exciting events other AFTACers have been doing this past week.

Our AFTACer of the week is Mr. Max Nager (SDE). Max graduated from Kansas State University where he served as the supervisor of its nuclear reactor facility, and prior to AFTAC, he was a volunteer search and rescue team member in New Mexico. Mr. Nager is a nuclear engineer by degree and started at AFTAC in 2022 as a KBR contractor under the SORTA-FAST contract. He was assigned to SDE where he served as the system engineer for the In-Field Gas Analysis (IFGA) system with a responsibility for requirements development and verification as well as implementation of Model based system engineering with SysML. During his time as a contractor, he also supported the 23d ANS/ANX Geophysical Projects and Products Effort and where he assisted in the implementation of the AFTAC GitLab server and investigated continuous integration solutions. In 2023, he moved into a civilian position in SDE where he continues to execute his previously assigned roles.

Shout out to SSgt Leitschuh (709 TMXS) for attending the two-day Joint Scientific Commission (JSC) between AFTAC and the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resource (KIGAM). The JSC is an annual meeting between AFTAC's and host nation's geophysicists, engineers, maintenance technicians, and international affairs personnel. This year's AFTAC/KIGAM JSC took place over two days at the Center and topics discussed included data availability, scientific research, next-gen tool suites, and sensor calibration. SSgt Leitschuh also hosted our KIGAM partners at the Center's training borehole and showcased the new Nanometrics Geophysical Field System. Our Korean partners displayed a keen interest in the site tour as this new equipment suite will be installed at the Korean array in the near future. Leadership appreciates SSgt Leitschuh' s professionalism and depth of knowledge!

The 709th Support Squadron (709 SPTS) hosted members from 45th Civil Engineering Squadron for a mission brief and an immersion of their squadron. The team led Maj David Nguyen, Captain Alexandra Stellas, MSgt Elizabeth Powers and Mr. Mario Pawlik through the work centers to learn about how the 709 SPTS provides support for the AFTAC enterprise. Our support squadron highlighted their critical efforts by showcasing the teamwork of 26 different AFSC's that are essential for the success of AFTAC's missions. Thank you to all of the SPTS briefers (SSgt Daniel Felipe, SSgt Aylex Cunneen, SrA Joshua Lacey, Ms. E'van Jesse, TSgt Diego Diaz, MSgt Daniel Franklin, and TSgt Anthony Morris) who put our excellence on display by demonstrating the hard work the support squadron produces each and every day.

Congratulations to (soon-to-be Dr.) Capt Nathan Ruprecht (21 SURS) for successfully defending his doctoral dissertation! Nathan likes school so much that he's been pursuing his PhD in Biomedical Engineering in his "free time" for the past 5 years on top of his Air Force duties. His hard work came to the culminating right-of-passage milestone last week when he traveled to the University of North Dakota (UND, Fighting Hawks!) for that last push - proving once again how capable and intelligent our AFTAC workforce is. All that's left is submitting his report and taking his family to see snow for graduation next month. Give him a pat on the back if you see him, congrats Dr. Ruprecht!

Capt Nicholas Soto (SDA) recently supported the University of South Florida, ROTC Detachment 158 at their annual Career Day in Tampa, Florida. Along with 17 other active-duty Airmen and civilians across numerous AFSCs, Capt Soto spoke to over 150 cadets and potential future officers on topics related to their career fields, roles, and responsibilities at AFTAC, experiences in past assignments, personal and professional advice as an officer, and other general Air Force topics. The event was extremely successful and highlighted AFTACs premier role in the DoD.”

Congratulations to Lt Col Merle Hamilton (709 SPTG/Det 1) and his family as they made the cover of Viera Living: East Edition for the article Meet the Hamiltons: A life of service; Celebrating 5 Years of Bringing Neighbors Together.

Congratulations to SSgt Jadiel Vega-Vega (709 CYS) for winning the 16th Air Force Airman of the Month! Since transitioning from Security Forces, he recently completed his bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity and stepped forward with leading efforts to obtain ATO's across two networks. He developed 20 milestones, a 2 month get well plan, and updated 2,000 security controls to secure DoD's sole nuclear monitoring enterprise valued at $70M.

As many of us take the holiday to relax and celebrate the things we are grateful for, remember that we still have AFTAC members working thru the holiday to keep our nation safe. I will be serving at the AFTOC for their 1100 session and then at the DFAC starting at 1200 to ensure our working Airmen and Guardians have delicious Thanksgiving meals. I want you all to reach out to your AFTAC family to ensure no one must celebrate alone this year.

Enjoy the "brisk" weather this week and have a Happy Thanksgiving! V/r

Cobra

JAMES "COBRA" FINLAYSON, Colonel, USAF
Commander, AFTAC
Patrick Space Force Base, FL
W: (321) 494-2334
DSN: 854-2334

Commander's Weekly Note for 29 Nov 23
By Col. James "Cobra" Finlayson

Team AFTAC!

I hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend and found ways to recharge their batteries, especially after delicious feasts with friends and family as you shared. On Thanksgiving, there were many members who showed up to the AFTOC to share stories and create quite the remarkable array of dishes for our AFTAC family working thru the holiday.

Although not officially winter yet, the winter holiday season festivities are officially in full swing with everyone decking the halls and decorating their spaces. The Maintenance Support Flight even has an express mailbox to send messages to Santa. I look forward to seeing all the magic and the wonderlands when I return from my trip.

There are many festivities to come this month. However, we must take care of business prior to members leaving for the holidays. As of 1300 today, the Center is 70% trained for both Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) and Suicide Prevention (SP). As these are annual trainings with a current suspense of 15 December, we have less than 3 weeks to achieve the remaining 30%. Each training session is 1 hour long, so I need everyone to ensure you accomplish these trainings prior to taking holiday leave. I need SELs and our training facilitators to ensure the records are current to account for all civilians and military members required to take these trainings. Attached is a list of upcoming training sessions that will be facilitated by 1st Lt Jacob Weinberg (21 SURS) or SSgt Jessica Arriaga (CCEA). Thanks to these two and TSgt Jevin Griffin (709 SPTS) for facilitating the numerous sessions at AFTAC. And thanks to all who have attended the sessions (both here and at GSUs).

Last week was a short week prior to Thanksgiving. Here are some exciting events accomplished by AFTACers.

Our AFTACer of the week is Ms. Kelly Bless from Strategic Integration (SI). She was born at Seymour Johnson AFB in North Carolina and spent her childhood as an Air Force brat hopping from base to base. Ms. Bless started her 35-year civilian career right here at Patrick and since then has continued hopping from base to base. She worked in Fulda, Darmstadt, Mannheim, and Stuttgart, Germany. Stateside in Florida, she worked for the Corps of Engineers in Jacksonville, DCAA in Palm Bay, and for the Department of State (next door in the hangar). Kelly earned her Bachelor of Arts in business administration at University of South Florida in Tampa while working at MacDill AFB, and she earned her MBA at Jacksonville University in Jacksonville while working at the Corps of Engineers. Kelly PCS'd here to AFTAC from Vicenza, Italy, where she served as a Budget Analyst for USARAF (US Army Africa). While in Vicenza, Kelly spent her off-duty hours honing her Italian language skills, hiking the Dolomites, and hiking the 52 Tunnels regularly. Kelly considers Cocoa Beach home and has no plans of moving again. While here at AFTAC, Ms. Bless has focused primarily on the budget and execution of R&D funds. We are proud to have her as a member of our SI family!

SSgt Albert Howard (center) led a team of six 22d Surveillance Squadron, Detachment 45 members to a combined small unit tactics training and unit morale building event at a Denver paintball course. The team practiced effective communication and bounded overwatch tactics while having a great time as a team and dominating the local paintball enthusiasts. This event was an outstanding opportunity for our 9S100 airmen to embrace their warrior ethos and represent Buckley SFB to the community.

22 SURS/Det 46 had the honor of promoting its newest member, (S)Sgt Andrew Cauley, to the official rank of SSgt. A ceremony was held at the entrance of the Cheyenne Mountain SFS complex in front of the 9/11 memorial, which holds a melted pillar from the twin towers. SSgt Cauley hails from Temecula, CA. He knew he wanted to join the AF when he was 16, and he joined the Delayed Entry Program before he even graduated high school! This promotion is just one amazing step in what will undoubtedly be a great AF journey.

The next AFTAC Newcomers Orientation is on Tuesday, 5 December. I encourage everyone who has not already done so to attend. This is a great way to connect with others and learn about the AFTAC mission.

December is bound to be an eventful month to close out the year with joyous celebrations. But December will not only be a month to close out 2023 as there are several members with retirement ceremonies this month. As these AFTACers transition away from daily interactions with us, be sure to let them know they will always be members of the AFTAC family and celebrate the bonds that they have forged.

Next week on Wednesday, 6 December from 0900 - 1300 at the Tides, there will be a Tech Expo free and open to all DoD and Government employees as well as contractors and community partners. See the attached flyer for full information on featured vendors and the tech briefings hosted. Registration is recommended and linked on the flyer. Attendance is permitted per guidance of your supervisor.

As a reminder, December's First Friday has been cancelled due to the number of events to celebrate the holidays and each other. First Fridays will resume in January.

December can only have fantastic festivities because of the people with whom we share the events and holidays. Ensure that no member of the AFTAC family spends the coming holidays alone, check on the wellbeing of your fellow AFTACers, and let all know the support they have. The IRT is also here for us, and they will be hosting sessions on Spiritual CAF Day, Friday, 8 December. This will help fortify the Spiritual pillar just as the other CAF days had focused on strengthening their respective pillar of resilience (physical, social, and mental).

Mary Poppins once said, "In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun." So, I hope everyone is ready for a fun December! V/r

Cobra

JAMES "COBRA" FINLAYSON, Colonel, USAF
Commander, AFTAC
Patrick Space Force Base, FL
W: (321) 494-2334
DSN: 854-2334

Becoming a "99"

An autobiographical sketch of the mystique of beginning a '99125' career.

By Michael P. Clark, AFTACer: active duty 1969 - 1994, and '99 forever (Once a '99, always a '99).
From "B-technique, the early days", Original author unknown:

In the beginning
They created the Seismic Technique
And They said, "Let there be motion!"
And there was motion
And They said, "Let there be phases!"
And there appeared a multitude of phases
And They saw amongst the multitude
Peep, Emerge, Shear, Bounce, Reflect, Score, Prism, Rebound, Transform, Love and Rayb And They said, "Let there be airmen dedicated to monitor Heaven and Earth for nuclear tests!"
And there appeared technical giants dispersed throughout the good Earth installing, maintaining, and operating equipment and analyzing the motion and phase data 24 / 7, immediately reporting anomalies to Them
And They saw that the giants were '99s
And They were pleased.

In 1969, I was a sophomore at SUNY College of Forestry, Syracuse N.Y., studying chemistry. World events of the late '60s weighed heavily on my mind, and I chose to fulfill my military obligation by enlisting in the Air Force, with the idea of coming back to school after 4 years of serving the country. I talked to the recruiters, took the battery of tests, and found I placed near the highest percentile of scores. I didn't have a specific goal for a career field at that time, but the recruiter told me that I could qualify for virtually any I might choose. There were 4 categories of career fields in those days, Administrative, Mechanical, Electronics and General. I was most interested in Electronics as I perceived that to be the most 'science-based' category. I asked for missile electronics but was open to any of the electronics fields.

I enlisted via the Delayed Enlistment Program in April 1969 and was called to report to Basic training at Lackland AFB in mid-May. As my brother Bob was previously enlisted in the Air force, his career field was munitions, he gave me the low-down on what to expect at Basic training, what the MTIs would look for, what to avoid doing, and how to succeed. His overview was spot-on. 6 weeks of basic went by rapidly, starting with the first morning 04:30 AM '30-gallon steel-trash-can-and-lid-crashing-down-the-middle-of-the-bay', and the wake-up call of our Military Training Instructor SSgt Rabalais screaming 'G'DAMIT!! GET UP!! Our entire basic flight instantly got the message and bailed out of the bunks, hitting the floor at our best guess of 'Attention!'

The normal basic training scenario followed, from the end of the 'rainbow' status with uniforms and buzzcuts, to immunizations, to learning marching and all the sundry military things that Basic teaches.

Sometime near the third or fourth week our flight #775, plus what seemed to be several other flights, were marched to an auditorium seating about 200 of us for a career briefing. Each of us was handed our copy of the security paperwork we had filled out prior to arriving at Basic. The instructor at the front of the stage walked everyone through the forms and drilled into us that each item had to be filled out precisely, or we could remain in Basic for the rest of our lives because we either would never get a security clearance to qualify for tech school or be relegated to some 'weeds and seeds' direct duty assignment. At the top of each airman's form was a 3-digit number printed in magic marker that the instructor told us was the Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) for the job tech school for which we were being considered. The instructor read a list from his sheaf of papers, telling the code number, then what the job was. "207, Intelligence specialist. 304, electronic equipment repair. 461, munitions handler. 702, Administrator. 732, Personnel specialist. 811, Security Police." And so forth, and so forth. When he reached the end of his list, he asked "Does anyone have a code that I didn't list?" I looked down at my form, and saw '991', which he hadn't listed. Another airman in the front of the auditorium raised his hand and asked, "Sir! What about '991'?

The instructor stood frozen and silent for a good 20 seconds, which focused the entire room's attention and silence. Was he stumped by some Airman Basic?

He slowly said, "How many of you have '991' on the form?" About 4 of us in the full auditorium raided our hands. "99125 is a Reporting Identifier, not an AFSC. All we can tell you about '99125' is that it is a very specialized career field called 'Special Electronics Technician'. You are specially selected for it by the Air Force. Other than that, all I can tell you is that if you are selected for '99125', when you graduate Basic training, we put you on an airplane to Denver Colorado and Lowry AFB, and we will never see you again".

I could feel all the eyes in the room looking around to see who had this '991' on their form, as if witnessing the condemned being sentenced to disappear from the face of the Earth. I could feel what little hair I had on the back of my neck trying to stand up. What did I get myself into? Then I remembered the instructor had said, 'Special Electronics Technician' and thought "This could be interesting!" I apparently had somehow qualified for and was selected by the Air Force for something rare. It was apparently an electronics job, which is just what I was looking for.

Near the end of Basic training, assignments were posted for each of us for our follow-on tech schools or direct duty assignments. A few of us were relegated to 'AFI', or 'Awaiting Further Instructions'. I was told that I would be interviewed within the next couple of weeks for this '991' job. In the interim I would be assigned to general purpose Lackland AFB details and duties following Basic graduation until the interview and final selection or non-selection for the job. After about a week and a half, I was notified that I was to report to my interview with a Captain Booton. After six weeks plus of basic training, plus a week and a half of AFI, I was very surprised and a little intimidated to be reporting directly to a captain. After all, we had been put through all kinds of stress during Basic with the most senior ranks being at the MSgt NCO level, with virtually no direct interaction with the officer corps.

At the appropriate time and place, after I had done several rehearsals to hone my crispest and most military reporting technique, I reported in for my interview with Captain Booton. Saluting, "Airman Clark reports as ordered sir!". He immediately offered a smile and handshake, and said, 'Hello Mike, how are you doing? I'm Harley Booton from Detachment 057, Lowry AFB Colorado. Please have a seat, relax, and let me tell you a little about the job for which you are a candidate".

He then gave me a short briefing, stating that the job was electronics and science based, highly classified, and heavily overseas imbalanced. The tech school was at Lowry AFB in Denver, Colorado, and lasted up to 48 weeks. The first several weeks were electronics fundamentals, followed by the actual classified technique school and final assignment. After an overseas assignment, I would be rotated back to the 'States, possibly to the Washington DC area, or California. I was being considered for 'U' technique training, one of many operational techniques. Some of the overseas locations were remote, and I would be operating and maintaining the equipment, and analyzing data to report immediately to higher headquarters for a mission of great national importance. The job often involved shift work, and evening and midnight shifts were sometimes single-manned, so a great deal of responsibility was placed on the operator. "And, just to put your mind at ease, we have no stations in Vietnam, but most of the stations' locations are classified". He mentioned that my records had been carefully screened and he considered me an excellent candidate. He said that If I felt the job's not right for me, that's OK. I could pick one of the other electronics jobs he had on a list, and I would be on my way shortly to another tech school where he said he was sure I would do very well. In closing, he asked, "Would you consider accepting the job?"

I was still pleasantly surprised that an officer was interacting with me like a person instead of just another low-life single-stripe Airman and was asking my permission to be assigned to this special electronics technician job. My head was reeling a bit from all the information, but from what the captain had just told me, it sounded like the dream job for me! I told Captain Booton that I appreciated his briefing and was willing to accept the job offer. He said "Great! We will get some orders cut, and you will be on your way to Lowry shortly. Thank you, Airman Clark". He again shook my hand, told me that we were finished. I saluted, did a snappy about-face, and left the office.

A few days later, I was notified that I was to attend an out briefing for PCS. I was given my set of orders and blue-bussed to the San Antonio airport with a contingent of other airmen heading to Lowry.

Our flight was diverted to Colorado Springs due to a strong thunderstorm near Denver, causing a few hours' delay in our arrival. During the short bus ride from Denver's Stapleton airport to Lowry, an airman with a yellow 'rope' on his fatigue uniform shoulder (a student airman leader as we later learned) started haranguing us about how although we were no longer in Basic, we would still be under his total control no different than a basic trainee at Lackland. We were all heading to the Personnel Awaiting Training Squadron (PATS) where we would be waiting for several weeks before our technical training squadron would notify us of our class start date. One of the other 991s on the bus spoke up and said we had orders to start school on July 16, about one week away. The 'rope' just laughed and said that those dates were only estimates. He was the one in charge here! The outspoken wise guy that questioned him was now on his bad side and was going to get the worst details. We were just dirt since we were not yet in tech school, and we would be doing every dirty base detail he could find for weeks until the school called to let us in. He seemed to enjoy doing his best imitation of a hard-ass MTI, but he still only had one stripe like all the rest of us.

Upon arrival at Lowry, we were herded into an auditorium where a SSgt called out names and told us where to report for our barracks that evening. After almost all the other airmen had been called, there were still about 5 of us left. "Who are you guys"? the SSgt asked. He asked to see copies of our orders and saw that we were supposed to be going across base to the 3420 school squadron. He called the squadron orderly room, but as it was after duty hours, no one was there to receive us. "OK you guys, you will be staying in PATS overnight, then tomorrow morning someone from your squadron will come to get you".

Naturally, we all got assigned to the hard-ass rope's barracks for our overnight stay. He tried his best to make us fear his every whim but, as it was getting late, and lights-out was imminent, we were mostly left alone with a promise that tomorrow morning we would be in trouble. Virtually all the other barracks residents seemed completely intimidated by this guy. The next morning, we 5 were ordered to wipe down and polish the barracks center aisle with our towels and make the floor shine, ready for inspection. A few minutes after we started, the SSgt from the evening before called us out to the parking lot, told us to get our stuff, and get on the blue bus to go to our squadron. The 'rope' saw us return to the barracks and immediately asked us where the hell we thought we were going. We replied that we were assigned to the 20th squadron. He then visibly paled and backed off, only saying, "Oh… then get your s#%t and get out of here now!". As we found out later, there were two 20th squadrons on base, 3420 (ours) and 3320. Almost no one on base knew anything of the low profile 3420 school squadron. The more well-known 3320 squadron was the holding squadron for airmen in trouble, those about to be jailed or discharged for various forms of misconduct, such as fraud, assault, murder, or other unsavory activities. The 'rope' apparently believed that our group of five 991s were axe murderers or some such being jailed and sent on to Leavenworth. He was probably thanking his lucky stars that he survived the previous night unscathed, wanting no part of us any longer! Of course, as we left his barracks, we scuffed our way down the freshly polished center aisle, dragging our duffel bags on the way out. Nary a peep out of the 'rope.

We got on the bus and saw another yellow 'rope' already on board. Great. Another junior MTI-wannabe Hitler. As the bus pulled away, he introduced himself and immediately radiated collegial friendship. He told us we were going across base to the best squadron on Lowry, that we would be treated like permanent party, and that that our First Shirt, SMSgt Southard was a great guy. We told him about the young Hitler we just endured, and he rolled his eyes and said that was par for the course in PATS. They apparently told the 'ropes in PATS, and they believed it, that yellow ropes were the equivalent of staff sergeants, and red ropes were the equivalent of second lieutenants. That didn't happen in our squadron. Ropes were just ordinary students selected primarily to help manage the classes and flights as we marched to and from school.

We were in briefed by SMSgt Southard, SSgt Davenport the squadron MTI, and the Admin staff. We were told that our squadron had a certain independence from the rest of the base and kept a low profile. Only a few senior people on the base knew what we did for a living and the base knew to leave us alone. We were not to talk about or repeat anything to anyone we might hear regarding our mission. We would first be attending electronics fundamentals and other classes organized and taught by other 991s, not the base instructor pool. Our barracks were exclusively the 20th squadron, unlike other dorms on base, and everyone in our barracks was a '991' trainee.

Our class consisted of myself, Bill Buckingham, Tom Lloyd, Charlie Lamb, Ralph Porter, Larry Porter, Sam 'Snuffy' Smith, Van Hodgkin, Paul Stack, and Bill Jones. Our 'Fundies' instructor was Sgt Joe Kirk, a "Q" technique veteran, who treated us like college students not chattel. Fundies consisted of blocks of basic electronics, DC and AC circuits, resistors, capacitors, inductors, transistors, vacuum tubes, etc. The last block of instruction was the practical exercise of each of us building our own oscilloscope from a box of parts and a schematic. After our o'scope was built and tested, Sgt Kirk and some other instructors would escort us out of the training room, and then put 'bugs' into our creations that we had to find and fix. It was a fun exercise, and a great practical learning experience! We all passed. At the completion of 'Fundies', we were given 2-weeks of leave as a break, then to return for our mission briefing and start the 'U' system 'Sets' training.

Our classified mission briefing day was filled with anticipation of finally finding out what our job was to be. We had seen the detectors outside the training building #359, which we later knew to be 'Z2' tubs and 'Q' antenna dome igloos but had no idea of their purpose. Unfortunately, 'Snuffy' Smith's final clearance was delayed by about a week, so he couldn't join our class. He was picked up on the next class, which happened to be a 'Q' technique class.

To me, the (now declassified) global nuclear explosion monitoring job was totally fascinating. They briefed us on not only the science and mission, but the station locations, and what all the other techniques did ('A' through Z2) and how they all worked together to provide the nation's leadership critical and timely data. 'U' was the very low frequency phase anomaly technique.

Our class instructors were SSgts Carl Pacic and Pat Berner, both experienced 'U' troops. We went through all the technique theory and equipment in fine detail, also covering troubleshooting techniques. In addition to the analog VLF receivers, loop and whip antennas, cardioid units, strip chart recorders and sulzer oscillators, we were taught the 'Type-2 U', a new high sample rate digital equipment suite, and the DRFUD, Digital Recorder For U Data, referred to, of course, as 'Doctor FUD'. Near the end of our 'U' sets portion, we were introduced to both 'Z2', atmospheric fluorescence, and 'H', magneto-telluric techniques, which, along with 'U', monitored the ionosphere worldwide for high-altitude nuclear testing. All three techniques were being grouped into a technique designated 'K'.

The last block of instruction was a 'field station' exercise at a mockup of a station on Lowry in bldg. 1308. Our 'U' class operated the site together with a 'Z2' class, and actually worked the station in 8-hour shifts 24 / 7 for 4 weeks. We operated the station as though we were an overseas detachment, complete with mockup comm center and test exercises provided by the field station instructors.

Near the end of our tech school training, our class was notified of our assignments. The tradition of the school was to issue a 'block' of assignment locations to the class, and final class academic rank order determined who got which assignment choice. The highest cumulative score got first pick, second got second, etc. I placed right in the middle at 5th place of 9, and I chose Ascension Island, a remote assignment in the South Atlantic Ocean.

At our class graduation, we were given our training completion certificates, and our orders to our next assignments. We were also officially granted the Reporting Identifier and shred-out of 'Special Electronics Technician, 99125 U'. We were now officially '3-level' '99s, ready for assignment and upgrade training to '5-level' when we got to our assignments. I believe I speak for our whole class in saying it was a very proud moment for all of us. We had come a long way since that day in Basic when we were told by that instructor that 'we would never be seen again'!

Michael Clark

X-file solved? Truth behind Roswell 'alien' that made a woman faint

By Rick Neale, FLORIDA TODAY reported on Feb. 6, 2020


Walter Singlevich, a former Melbourne Beach resident, died in 1992 at age 73 - and in his later years, he joked that he was a Roswell alien.

After taking off from Roswell, Walter Singlevich's military helicopter flew across the dusty New Mexico plains to his top-secret Cold War-era target: a silvery balloon equipped to detect nuclear detonations that lay sprawled atop a knoll near a rural ranch house.

The helicopter landed nearby. Singlevich and the pilot donned bulky 1950s-era radiation protective suits - complete with hoods and respirators - and hustled up the hill.

That's when the short-statured Singlevich may have inadvertently added a chapter to the "little green men" alien conspiracy lore that swirls around Roswell, New Mexico, where some believe a UFO crashed in 1947. "As they came over the rise where the balloon was, they ran into this woman who was coming from the ranch house," said Jim Whidden, Air Force Technical Applications Center director of staff. "And when she saw them, she fainted," Whidden said. "So they walked over and made sure that she didn't hurt herself, and basically left her there - this was very highly classified. They picked up the balloon and all the equipment and the sample, and took it back to the helicopter and left," he said.

AFTAC officials shared details of Singlevich's faint-inducing encounter with FLORIDA TODAY, marking the story's first public release. The incident occurred in 1951 or 1952 and was considered classified until 2017, said James Michael Young, AFTAC command historian.

Additional details have been lost over the decades, Young said. The woman's identity and location remain a mystery. Singlevich, in his later years, joked that he was a Roswell space alien, Whidden said. He told friends that the stunned woman could have passed a lie detector test while contending she had seen extraterrestrial visitors and their ship.

To view a video of the FLORIDA TODAY interview, visit Roswell 'alien' who made woman faint in 1950s was Patrick AFB icon.
To view the published Florida Today article with additional detail and photos, visit X-file solved? Truth behind Roswell 'alien' that made a woman faint.

Seems Impossible
Carefully study this art work and then read the text of what we did. Not only is the picture awesome, but so are the statistics!

During the 3-1/2 years of World War II that started with the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor in December of 1941 and ended with the surrender of Germany and Japan in 1945, "We the People of the U.S.A." produced the following:

• 22 aircraft carriers
• 8 battleships
• 48 cruisers
• 349 destroyers
• 420 destroyer escorts
• 203 submarines
• 34 million tons of merchant ships
• 100,000 fighter aircraft

• 98,000 bombers
• 24,000 transport aircraft
• 58,000 training aircraft
• 93,000 tanks
• 257,000 artillery pieces
• 105,000 mortars
• 3,000,000 machine guns
• 2,500,000 military trucks

We put 16.1 million men in uniform in the various armed services, invaded Africa, invaded Sicily and Italy, won the battle for the Atlantic, planned and executed D-Day, marched across the Pacific and Europe, developed the atomic bomb and, ultimately, conquered Japan and Germany.

It's amazing what America did in those days: many of you already know the story, here is the update.

THE FINAL TOAST
The text below references the movie "Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo."
There is a second film made in 1944 that details the "show" trials of the 11 airmen that were captured & tortured by the Japanese titled "The Purple Heart."
Three were executed as war criminals, a fourth died in captivity.
The FINAL TOAST! They bombed Tokyo 78 years ago.
They once were among the most universally admired and revered men in the United States .. There were 80 of the Raiders in April 1942, when they carried out one of the most courageous and heart-stirring military operations in this nation's history. The mere mention of their unit's name, in those years, would bring tears to the eyes of grateful Americans.

After Japan'ssneak attack on Pearl Harbor, with the United States reeling and wounded, something dramatic was needed to turn the war effort around. Even though there were no friendly airfields close enough to Japan for the United States to launch a retaliation, a daring plan was devised.
Sixteen B-25s were modified so that they could take off from the deck of an aircraft carrier. This had never before been tried -- sending such big, heavy bombers from a carrier.

The 16 five-man crews, under the command of Lt. Col. James Doolittle, who himself flew the lead plane off the USS Hornet, knew that they would not be able to return to the carrier. They would have to hit Japan and then hope to make it to China for a safe landing.

But on the day of the raid, the Japanese military caught wind of the plan.
The Raiders were told that they would have to take off from much farther out in the Pacific Ocean than they had counted on.
They were told that because of this they would not have enough fuel to make it to safety.
And those men went anyway.

They bombed Tokyo and then flew as far as they could.
Four planes crash-landed; 11 more crews bailed out, and three of the Raiders died.
Eight more were captured; three were executed.
Another died of starvation in a Japanese prison camp. One crew made it to Russia .

The Doolittle Raiders sent a message from the United States to its enemies, and to the rest of the world: We will fight. And, no matter what it takes, we will win.
Of the 80 Raiders, 62 survived the war. They were celebrated as national heroes, models of bravery.
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer produced a motion picture based on the raid; "Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo " starring Spencer Tracy and Van Johnson, was a patriotic and emotional box-office hit, and the phrase became part of the national lexicon.
In the movie-theater previews for the film, MGM proclaimed that it was presenting the story........ "with supreme pride."

Beginning in 1946, the surviving Raiders have held a reunion each April, to commemorate the mission. The reunion is in a different city each year. In 1959, the city of Tucson , Arizona , as a gesture of respect and gratitude, presented the Doolittle Raiders with a set of 80 silver goblets. Each goblet was engraved with the name of a Raider.

Also in the wooden case is a bottle of 1896 Hennessy Very Special cognac
The year is not happenstance: 1896 was when Jimmy Doolittle was born.

There has always been a plan: When there are only two surviving Raiders, they would open the bottle, at last drink from it, and toast their comrades who preceded them in death.

As 2013 began, there were five living Raiders; then, in February, Tom Griffin passed away at age 96.
What a man he was. After bailing out of his plane Over a mountainous Chinese forest after the Tokyo raid, he became ill with malaria, and almost died. When he recovered, he was sent to Europe to fly more combat missions.
He was shot down, captured, and spent 22 months in a German prisoner of war camp.

The selflessness of these men, the sheer guts ... There was a passage in the Cincinnati Enquirer obituary for Mr. Griffin that, on the surface, had nothing to do with the war, but that was emblematic of the depth of his sense of duty and devotion: "When his wife became ill and needed to go into a nursing home, he visited her every day.
He walked from his house to the nursing home, fed his wife, and at the end of the day brought home her clothes. At night, he washed and ironed her clothes. Then he walked them up to her room the next morning.
He did that for three years until her death in 2005."

So now, out of the original 80, only four Raiders remain:
Dick Cole (Doolittle's co-pilot on the Tokyo raid), Robert Hite, Edward Saylor and David Thatcher. All are in their 90s.

They have decided that there are too few of them for the public reunions to continue. The events in Fort Walton Beach marked the end. It has come full circle; Florida 's nearby Eglin Field was where the Raiders trained in secrecy for the Tokyo mission. The town planned to do all it can to honor the men: a six-day celebration of their valor, including luncheons, a dinner and a parade.

The men have decided that after this final public reunion they will wait until a later date -- sometime this year -- to get together once more, informally and in absolute privacy. That is when they will open the bottle of brandy. The years are flowing by too swiftly now; they are not going to wait until there are only two of them. They will fill the four remaining upturned goblets. And raise them in a toast to those who are gone.

The last two remaining survivors

They are all gone and should never be forgotten.

Colorado Chapter Breakfast

Dear AFTAC & LRD Alumni, Active Duty, Civilians, Family and Friends
You are cordially invited to join us at our first activity of the year - our Colorado membership breakfast on 4 March 2023. Location/Time: Aurora Hills Golf Course, Tin Cup Banquet Room, 50 S. Peoria St. Aurora, CO 80012; Breakfast served at 9 AM.

Breakfast will be the Tin Cup breakfast buffet including: Juice, coffee, eggs, bacon, sausage, fresh fruit, pastries, biscuits, gravy and potatoes. Cost: $22; Children 12 and under Free. You can pay at the door with a check made out to "Maureen Hampson" or cash (exact change is appreciated).

Please RSVP no later than 23 February. We need an accurate headcount to plan the Breakfast.

To RSVP you can:
- call our Treasurer, Maureen Hampson, at 303-695-0477 (leave a message)
- or email Maureen Hampson

We look forward to seeing you there!
Sincerely,
The AFTAC Alumni Association of Colorado Chapter Staff

New WC-135R Constant Phoenix

Team Offutt welcomed a new aircraft to its fleet for the first time in decades when WC-135R Constant Phoenix tail number 14836 arrived at Lincoln Airport today. This is the first of three WC-135R deliveries to the 55th Wing as the United States Air Force is modifying three KC-135R Stratotankers to replace the aging aircraft. Originally delivered to the AF in 1964 and most recently flown by the New Hampshire Air National Guard, the new WC-135R was modified by Big Safari and will serve as the Air Force's newest atmospheric collection aircraft supporting national and international partners. Operated by the 45th Reconnaissance Squadron with support from Detachment 1, AF Technical Applications Center, it collects particulate and gaseous effluents and debris from accessible regions of the atmosphere in support of the Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty of 1963.

Three inductees join past "giants"
on AFTAC Wall of Honor

PATRICK SPACE FORCE BASE, Fla. -- In keeping with its annual tradition, the commander of the Air Force Technical Applications Center inducted three former members of the nuclear treaty monitoring center onto its famed "Wall of Honor" May 26.

Col. Katharine G. Barber recognized retired Senior Master Sergeants Mike Clark and Tony DeMarco and Ms. Eunice Harris at a ceremony held in the Doyle M. Northrup Auditorium here as dozens of current, former and retired members of AFTAC witnessed the induction.

Barber and her command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Amy Long, presented each inductee with an engraved medallion that depicts an American Bald Eagle clutching a scroll in one talon and a sword in the other. The scroll symbolizes the Limited Test Ban Treaty and the sword illustrates military strength and might. Above the eagle are the words, "Sapientia Potentia Est," Latin for "Wisdom is Power."

In addition to the medallion, the honorees' names were engraved on plaques that now hang on the Wall of Honor in the center's main lobby.

Selection to the wall is stringent and rigorous. The AFTAC Heritage Committee meticulously reviews dozens of nomination packages of former scientists, analysts, engineers and technicians to judge their contributions and impact on the center's historic long-range detection mission. Only three per year are considered for induction. The committee looks for nominees who demonstrated great character and whose actions truly discriminated them from thousands of other center employees, both military and civilian.

Dr. Mike Young, AFTAC's historian, led this year's selection panel.

"Our lineage can be traced back to 1947, two days before the Air Force was established as a separate service, and the single thing that can be attributed to our success as an organization is without a doubt our people," said Young. "The contributions of today's inductees are priceless, and their work absolutely formed the cornerstone of our long range detection mission. AFTAC's greatest asset has always been its people. It definitely gives our more junior personnel an opportunity to learn about the giants upon whose shoulders we stand today."

Clark, who joined the Air Force in 1969, spent nearly his entire 25 years in the Air Force assigned to AFTAC's various overseas and stateside detachments. He was also a technical training instructor and authored training manuals. After retirement, he became the lead analyst for the Group of Scientific Experts Technical Test 3, the planning group that helped develop the International Monitoring System for the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization.

DeMarco was also a career-AFTACer, serving 23 years with the organization from 1966 to 1989. He was an expert in operating the electromagnetic pulse technique - the "Q" technique - in the Atomic Energy Detection System. When the "Q" capabilities were eliminated in favor of more advanced satellite methods, DeMarco played a key role in the rapid development of the new "J" technique and ultimately became AFTAC's most experience EMP systems expert.

Harris, a 31-year government civilian, served as the secretary and closest confidant to AFTAC's first senior scientist, Walt Singlevich, for nearly 20 years. She handled numerous responsibilities and managed countless classified and time-sensitive national-level reports to ensure Singlevich had the tools and resources needed to make critical decisions for senior decision makers. In essence, she was an office manager, administrative assistant, primary communicator and invaluable gatekeeper in managing AFTAC's senior scientist's daily workload.

"My mom just loved AFTAC," said Mike Harris, Eunice's son. "She was involved in everything from the alumni association to morale events to spouses groups to holiday parties - you name it. She adored being part of such a great organization."

Mike, along with his sister Tina Colon, accepted the posthumous award for their mother.

"If my mother had been here today to receive this honor, she would be grinning ear to ear," said Tina. "She ran our household much like how she took care of Mr. Singlevich - a tight ship, but with a lot of love. We are so appreciative of AFTAC for recognizing her in such a special way. We're all very proud!"

The Wall of Honor was established in 2015 to recognize individuals who "profoundly contributed to AFTAC's global mission, while personifying the Air Force Core Values of integrity, service and excellence," and since its inception, the center has inducted 30 people to the wall.

Addressing the audience but directing her comments to the three inductees, the leader of the treaty monitoring center had nothing but praise for their significant contributions to AFTAC's continued success.

"It is such a privilege for me to recognize the lifetime achievements of today's honorees," said Barber. "You are innovators, trainers, developers, instructors, creators, and trailblazers who used your expertise to make tough calls and provide crucial data to our national decision-makers, all the way up to the President of the United States, and in doing so, you kept us safe. I cannot wait to see the legends we are creating today join your names on our wall to forever commemorate your historic contributions. I salute Mike, Tony and Eunice and thank their families and friends for joining us in celebrating their profound impact."

The Lone Ranger Rides Again - Wow

Long before Glen became known nationally as an outstanding vocalist, actor and TV personality, he was one of the most in-demand recording studio guitarists in the world.

He could have earned a 7-figure annual income as a high-end, asked-for studio guitarist for years on end if that had been all he cared to do.

How good was he? The Lone Ranger knows! You will enjoy.

Take a look at this video, one you may have never seen before. "Hi Yo, Silver, Away!" It doesn't get much better than this.

"The William Tell Overture" by Giaochino Rossini.

Many of us grew up watching the Lone Ranger and Tonto on black and white television. Years later, many of us watched the Glen Campbell as well. This video is a clip of a younger Glen Campbell playing the William Tell Overture (with symphony orchestra) and dedicating it to Clayton Moore, who played the Lone Ranger and Jay Silverheels, who played Tonto.

You may never have seen Glen play like this before. This is world-class guitar playing and Campbell makes it look easy; note he is playing a12 string!

The sounds of Glen Campbell on guitar and the symphony orchestra playing Rossini's "William Tell Overture" will take you back to those golden days of yesteryear, when the strains of Rossini's masterpiece coming over the radio meant the Lone Ranger show was about to begin.

Click here to see this wonderful video.

AFTAC Alumni Association 2020 Alumni of the Year Receives his Award
By: Phil Godfrey, AFTACAA President

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Mouse Cursor in Blue Box = Pause Slide Show
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February 26, 2021 was a memorable day for CMSgt (Ret) Ed Lindsay. On stage in front of a "safety crowd" of around 50, and an online Zoom teleconference of hundreds of current and former AFTAC members, he beamed with pride as he accepted his AFTAC Alumni of the Year Award. The AFTAC Commander, Col Katherine Barber, delivered his well-deserved trophy with a smile and an elbow bump, and he turned to the crowd at the Patrick Space Force Base Theater, pausing for a photo and a smile from his daughter, who was in attendance. Amid the roaring applause, Ed exited the stage, trophy in hand, reflecting on months of dedicated work for the Alumni Association.

Yes, Ed is our 2020 AFTAC Alumni of the Year. This is no easy award to get, and the countless hours Ed has dedicated this year to picking up responsibility for the Sage Shop, and learning the ropes as our newest Webmaster (and so much more), Ed has really kept the skids greased on a challenging year for the Association's critical missions.

Ed's selection was announced at our February teleconference meeting, and watching the emotions take their turns across his face was an experience to be remembered. Shock. Glee. More shock. Misty eyes. Gratitude. Above all, gratitude. That's Ed Lindsay, and has been the cornerstone of his humble leadership since he swore the oath. Ed runs on service to others, having served in positions of leadership for 30 years - even a stint as our Association President. So this was an easy call.

Thanks goes to Bob Wiley, who leads our AOY process and selection committee. Bob, Angelina (Ed's daughter) and I were in the Theater celebrating along with Ed. We wish you all could have been there!

Get Free Tax Prep Help

AFTAC Alumni eAllert - Here's How To Find Free Tax Preparation Around The Nation.

I recently sent an alert to the local Florida members concerning a site to get their tax returns done free of charge. This particular service is offered through the IRS and provided by VITA.

Here's how anyone in the United States can find a VITA site to prepare their taxes.

Start by clicking here:
You'll be presented with an IRS page that says: Get Free Tax Prep Help
It's easy as 1, 2, 3 from here on out.

1. Enter your zip code
2. Enter the size area you want to search (I suggest starting small and increasing)
3. Click on: Find

You will be shown if there is an office open in your area and all the information necessary to contact them.

If you find no services close to you are available, they may add more, so you might want to check it each day. That's what I did and once an office opened, I called and got an appointment the following day.

I'd say the bottom line is, if you don't see one open close to you soon, call the closest one and get further information or make an appointment with that one.

It will be incumbent on you to ensure, with them, that you are qualified and that it's a free tax service. It should be, but satisfy yourself that this is what you want to do.

Good Luck,
Your Florida Alumni Association

Update on John Nederhoed

It is with deep sadness that I pass along the news that John peacefully passed away last night surrounded by his wife and son. His daughter Katie was brought to the house to say her goodbyes and his son, Keith, is flying in this morning.

Beach Funeral home will be working with the Family and there will be more info about a memorial service. Once service information has been finalized, it will be sent out to the Center. John loved the AFTAC Family; please honor him with prayers for his family…Godspeed John!

The Obituary will follow when it is received.

Various job openings at Solis Applied Science

Below are the positions we are routinely looking for in Charlottesville, VA. We care more about the spectroscopy side of the house than imagery and try to find 99/9Ss

If you are intrested in any of these positions, select "Careers" on our website and forward your resume to us.

POCs:
Rich Burch (CEO) Dan Puchalski (VP)

Positions Available

2020 Florida AFTAC Alumni Association SnowBall XXII

By Sean Ryan Since 1999, The Florida AFTAC Alumni Association (AFTACAA) has thrown a themed event called a SnowBall. This festive and social get-together is highlighted with a social, dinner, entertainment, and honoring our previous year's Alumni of the Year (AOY). This year's event was held on 25 January, at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Viera, Florida.

The night's events kicked off with a festive Social Hour where guests enjoyed chatting and reminiscing about AFTAC and catching up and socializing with old friendships and sharing fond memories of their time in the unit, thru the years, around-the-world, or in the head-quarters building at Patrick AFB. Guests were also entertained by The Harbor City Harmonizers (A 4-person Quartet). The yearly slide show, organized and developed by Bob Wiley (AOY 2008), with photos by him from Ed Lindsay, and Judy Henderson (AOY 1997), among others, of previous SnowBall's, Spring Picnic, Golf Tournaments, Toilet Bowl, and Wind Downs, was continually shown on the screen.

This year's theme was the "Seismic Technique," which joined previous themes honoring Hawaii, Germany, Florida, Wyoming, Thailand, Australia, Korea, Nebraska, and Colorado … locations, where AFTAC had or has a presence, among other locales, worldwide.

Following the Social Hour, Opening Remarks by the AFTACAA President Phil Godfrey, Introductions of Key Staff, our National Anthem nicely performed by AFTAC's very own "Atomic Blue", Sage Salute provided by Lou Seiler, and POW/MIA Recognition and Invocation by Sean Ryan, a very delicious and appealing dinner was served by the hotel staff.

Amy Long, Gina & Chad Hartman After a brief break following dinner, the AFTAC Commander, Colonel Chad Hartman, provided an outstanding "pocket slide brief" of the Status of Command (SOC), and an overview of AFTAC's current activities and status. His SOC brief was truly "spot-on," and brought the AFTACAA "in tune and current" with the mission they once served in, and what is on the horizon for AFTAC down the road. Following the brief, The Harmonizers sang again.

The evening ended with the announcement of the 2019 AFTAC AOY. Wallace "Bryce" Dunn from the AFTAC Colorado Chapter in Denver, CO, was selected as the recipient. Bryce was previously recognized at the CO Chapter Worldwide Reunion in June 2019. The AFTACAA officially announced his name to welcome him into the honored recipients of the prestigious AOY ranks and honorees through the years.

Equipment displays were graciously supplied and arranged for the night by Dr. Mike Young, AFTAC Historian. Michelle Ryan and Frank Calenda arranged seismic wiggling related centerpieces to decorate the tables "that were an awesome compliment to the night's table displays." Frank and Edna Calenda, Michelle Ryan, and Pete Gilbert volunteered to man the check-in table. Judy Henderson shot photos for the evening.

A special and heartfelt thank you to all Team AFTAC Alumni Members and Spouses who volunteered to help with the various tasks and support required to provide an awesome evening by all in attendance.

We look forward to the 2021 SnowBall XXIII, in January 2021, when the AFTACAA will gather once again, to mingle, socialize, and reminisce of the times when we were in, and the current AFTAC of today, and recognize the 2020 AOY. Hope you can join us for another grand event and evening, with fellow Alumni and others in attendance next year.

More Pictures

45th MDG FLU Shots Available

Dear Beneficiary,
We at the Patrick AFB Medical Treatment Facility are sending you this message to encourage you to get the flu vaccine to help reduce the overall impact of possible respiratory illnesses for you and others during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the flu vaccine will not protect you against COVID-19, flu vaccination has been shown to reduce the risk of illness, hospitalization and death from an influenza infection. It is especially important for you to be immunized against the flu this year because we want to avoid potential simultaneous demand on our healthcare system due to COVID-19 and the flu.

Currently, we have influenza immunizations for beneficiaries between the ages of 6 months - 18 years, and 65 years or older. We are currently reserving our vaccinations for ages 18-65 for our Active Duty members, and will release for all beneficiaries as soon as we receive more vaccines. Please follow our Facebook page or look for future messages about any changes to our influenza vaccination availability.

If we do not currently have the correct influenza vaccination in stock for you, you may obtain the flu immunization in the TRICARE network for free at Walmart, Walgreens, and Publix. You may go to any network pharmacy that accepts TRICARE. To find the nearest one near you search on-line at: https://www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/IsItCovered/FluVaccine.

To ensure your shot record is updated, please provide the vaccine documentation you receive from the network pharmacy or TRICARE-authorized network provider to your Primary Care team or your MTF immunizations clinic. You may upload a copy of your immunization documentation to secure messaging and send to your Primary Care Manager, or hand carry a copy to the MTF.

We care about your health and want you to be protected. The flu vaccine is an important tool to protect you from the flu in any year; however, it is especially important as we address the additional threat posed by COVID-19. Please call or e-mail your PCMH team if you have any questions.

Sincerely,
Colonel Tracy Bozung, 45 MDG Commander

2020 Veterans Day Flag Run

Lt. Hafke posting the flag that was carried.

Edna and I standing for the National Anthem.

Invocation by the Patrick Air Force Base chaplain

Colonel Bordner, AFTAC Vice Commander introducing me and saying some nice things about me.

Colonel Bordner presenting me the flag

Me trying to present an acceptance speech

My invitee group minus Michelle Ryan (She was taking the photo). Notice the show-off not wearing a mask.

Previous Next

Mouse Cursor in Blue Box = Pause Slide Show
Click Left Side = Previous   Click Right Side = Next

Many of you know the reasons behind these photos. For those who don't, here's the deal. The active duty military of my old outfit AFTAC, arranged a group of military to run an American flag for 24 hours to honor retired military Veterans on Veterans Day (For you Aussies and Kiwis, it's the same as your ANZAC Day).

The flag was retreated on the night before that day and the run began. It involved close to 100 military personnel and the distance run was right at 100 miles.

My part of the story was that I was selected to receive that flag in honor of all military veterans. I was extremely honored to be selected and consider this effort by our active military personnel to be above and beyond the call of duty. I just wanted to share this brief story with my family and friends.

Regards to all,
Frank Calenda

Four Skin Rug

The Four-Skin Rug
Shortly after I arrived at Det 421 (Alice Springs) in August 1977, we received notification that the Air Force Comm Service had scheduled a renovation and refurbishment of our data line system. This task was something that had been budgeted for a couple years and was anxiously awaited, particularly after a round of bush fires a few months previous. The team, from the Far East Area Comm Depot at Yokota, Japan was due to arrive in a month or so, and would be on site for about 6 weeks.

We made arrangements for the team's accommodation downtown, and prepared for their arrival. Seems like someone with some experience in this area, with teams of this nature, recalled that Outside Plant installation teams had a tendency to be a rough and ready crew of rather rowdy individuals, there were some misgivings as to how they'd fit in to the Alice Springs environment. We had cultivated a strong bond with the local folks, and we did not want a bunch of dorks giving us a black eye.

The day came and the crew arrived. About 10 guys, led by a short, rather meek looking SSGT named John Gleason. They were in fact a pretty rough looking bunch, but we talked with SSgt Gleason, and the crew, and came to an understanding. In fact, they were, while there, models of good deportment and integrated well with both the locals and the other det people. One of SSgt Gleason's first actions was to seek out the local Catholic church; he was a serious church goer wherever he was.

Anyways, shortly after they arrived we threw them a "Welcome to The Alice" party and barbecue at the det. All the Det families and single troops were there, as well as the team members, about half the gang from the RSL Club across the street, and assorted folks from the Space Base and the town in general. Huge crowd, all having a great time. As the evening wore on, a group of us were listening to John Gleason telling about the trip to Alice. They'd come from Japan to Hawaii, then to Alice Springs with an overnight in Christchurch, New Zealand and a refuel at RAAF Richmond outside Sydney.

John had never been to New Zealand before, and found his overnight stay interesting. He's right; Christchurch is a really neat place in a wonderful country. He wandered around, and was very taken with the souvenir shops, particularly those places where they were selling wool products. New Zealand is famous for this, of course

"Boy, they had some really great stuff there. I got a real nice sweater for my wife, not expensive at all, and a bunch of other things for the kids"

A couple folks agreed with him, and told him about some of the things that were around here; opals, kangaroo hides, all that stuff.

He went on, "And another thing they had there were whole sheepskins with the wool attached. They had single skins and two skins sewed together, and a couple places I went to even had four-skin rugs that you could buy"……

At that point…… complete silence in the immediate area. He immediately realized what he'd said. Simultaneously, the penny dropped and the rest of the group, about half of which were Detachment Wives, also figured it out. The Ladies were on that one like ducks on a June bug. The guys shortly after. Poor SSgt Gleason stood there, face as red as a thermometer going "Ah…Blah…. Well I meant …." and so forth and just wishing that the ground would open up and swallow him and deliver him from this situation.

I will not relate any of the resultant repartee; you can all use your own imaginations You know most of the guys, and you probably know a few of the wives. Things eventually settled out, and we all went back to what we were drinking and finished the evening in fine style. John eventually regained his normal coloration and boyish aplomb.

But… Right up till the team got on the plane and left, every time any of about half a dozen wives (and a few of the guys) saw John, they'd ask him about the four-skin rugs and watch him turn red. He was an awfully good sport about it.

Bob Chadwick
E8, Ret
Det 421 Aug 77-Oct 78

Veteran's Day 2020

The 45 MDG has implemented
modified operations due to COVID-19.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.

45 MDG Clinic Hours:
Monday-Thursday 7:30 am-4:30 pm
Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm

Satellite Pharmacy Hours:
Monday-Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm

October Closures/Modified Hours:
Friday, 9 October 2020 (USSF Family Day):
Clinic open 7:30 am-12:00 pm
Satellite Pharmacy is closed all-day

Monday, 12 October 2020 (Federal Holiday):

All services closed all-day Clinic Service Status:
Active Duty Health/Family Health/Pediatrics/Women's Health: Virtual Appointments, In-Person Appointments (As Needed), Limited Walk-In Services
Walk-In Hours: 9:30-11:00am,1:00-3:00pm. Walk-in services available:
AD/Family Health: Blood Pressure Check, Injections (B12, Testosterone, Depo-Provera), Pregnancy Test, Dysuria (UTI), Wart Treatment, Suture Removal
Pediatrics: Blood Pressure Check, Depo-Provera Injection, Wart Removal, Weight/Bili Check, Suture Removal
Women's Health: Pregnancy Test, Depo-Provera Injection

Immunizations, Laboratory, Radiology, Pharmacy (Clinic/Satellite), Public Health, and TOPA: Regular Hours and Walk-In Services Available.

Dental: AD Only - Annual Exams, Dental Emergencies, and Dental Class 3 Only. No Cleanings or Routine Care.

Mental Health: AD Only - Virtual Appointments, In-Person (As Needed), Walk-In Services Available.

Optometry: Appointments available for AD. Retiree/Dependent space available only by appointment.

Physical Therapy: AD Only - Services by Appointment Only.

To schedule an appointment during clinic hours, call 321-494-8241.
After hours, contact the Nurse Advice Line at 1-800-874-2273.

AFTAC CCs/CVs over the Years

AFTAC Alumni Association seeking donations for memorial at Patrick Air Force Base

Tim Walters Florida Today
When AFTAC opened its new $158 million campus at Patrick Air Force Base in 2014, it was left with a conundrum.

Inside its former 1950s-era headquarters along State Road A1A were memorial plaques for those who died during active service for AFTAC, which stands for the Air Force Technical Applications Center, as well as its predecessor, AFOAT-1, or Air Force Office of Atomic Energy.

AFTAC leadership wanted to do something more visible to remember these people than hanging plaques inside a lobby.

"They wanted some place that would be available for more general traffic to acknowledge these people," said Air Force Major (Ret.) Lou Seiler, 73, who spent 10 of his 20 years of service with AFTAC. "They wondered if our alumni association, which is very active, would be willing to sponsor such a memorial external to the new building."

During the past seven decades, 76 AFOAT-1 and AFTAC members have lost their lives during their service to the mission.

When the AFTAC commander reached out to the AFTAC alumni association, which has more than 500 members in Florida and more than 1,000 nationwide, they began brainstorming ideas about how to honor their fallen.

They decided to form a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization so they could take in donations to build a memorial just outside of the new building.

Part of their campaign includes selling bricks that will form a pathway leading up to the memorial.

A 4-inch by 8-inch brick costs $150 and gets three lines of text up to 20 characters per line, includes spacing and punctuation. For $50 more you can get a 1x3 mini replica brick to keep.

An 8x8 brick costs $300 and gets six lines of text of up to 20 characters per line. For $50 more you can get a 3x3 mini replica brick.

The COVID-19 pandemic has slowed the process. The fundraising campaign had just begun in late 2019, but before it could gain traction, things ground to a halt in mid-March.

"Our whole program got kicked in the head by the pandemic," Seiler said. "We couldn't go anywhere, businesses weren't there. We couldn't go to meetings, couldn't have contact, just like anybody else. That caused a hit for us." A Memorial to those AFTAC service members who have died while on active duty to the long-range detection mission is planned to be built at Patrick Air Force Base. A donation drive, including engraved bricks, is being offered by the AFTAC Alumni Association.

Now they are starting to get the word out.

The campaign hopes to raise between $150,000 and $180,000.

So far they have raised about $30,000. Their biggest donation was on the platinum level — $10,000 — from a retired chief master sergeant who prefers to remain anonymous for now, Seiler said.

They've also received donations on the gold level ($5,000), the silver level ($2,500) and the bronze level ($1,000), as well as many brick sales.

The memorial consists of a path leading to a sculpture, a memorial monolith and a bench.

The path, comprised of bricks inlaid with the names and messages from contributors, heads west, passing the U.S. flag and, according to Seiler, "chasing the sun, for the sun never sets on the AFTAC mission," leading to the memorial monolith.

Across the top of the monolith will be inscribed: "This memorial is dedicated to all those who have given their lives in support of the Long Range Detection mission, and the Air Force Technical Applications Center. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten."

Posting of Our Memorial Names

(Updated September 2023)

The AFTAC Memorial has been built and dedicated, yet the project is still progressing and seeking donations, especially from those that served with AFTAC, the Long Range Detection (LRD) and AFOAT-1. We are focused on adding the sculpture of a Lithium atom and ensuring we have the ability to add individuals to the memorial and maintain the site over the long term. We continue to pursue funding for this project. An article was posted in the Florida Today Newspaper on Sunday, August 30th, 2020 describing our original purpose and goals.

Purchasing a brick is one of our best ways to contribute and create an enduring legacy of that contribution, however, any donation is helpful. A donation form for internet donations can be found below or you can use the on line Brick Order/Donation Form here.

The listing below includes all the members that have died while assigned to AFTAC (LRD) through the years that AFTAC has approved for inclusion in the memorial. We have additional information on some of these individuals; however, there are some members that we have little, or no information. As you go through the list, if you recognize the name and have knowledge of the date they passed, how it happened and any knowledge of their association with the AFTAC, LRD, AFOAT-1 organization, and anything else that might be pertinent, and have not previously provided this information, please send that information to our Alumni President, Ed Lindsay.

For additional questions about this project, please send email to the POC, Maj (Ret) Lou Seiler

Names are listed in the order they are on the wall

Respectfully,
Your AFTAC Alumni Association and the AFTAC Memorial Corporation

HPCON Bravo

On June 12th, the 45th Space Wing will transition to HPCON Bravo. With this change, certain facilities and services will begin to reopen around base but may have reduced hours or limitations on services. This will also allow up to 50% of our non-mission essential personnel to return to work on a voluntary basis and in coordination with unit commanders.

While we are excited to return some of the services that our community has been looking forward to, we remind everyone that face coverings are still required for any areas that physical distancing cannot be maintained. If you have any questions about the restrictions that may be in place for a specific location or service, please call ahead using the directory found on www.patrick.af.mil/

With everyone's help to maintain physical distancing, continuing their wear of face coverings, and practicing the mitigating efforts outlined by the CDC, we hope to remain open without adding any previous restrictions!

  With a special "Hat Tip" to Sean Ryan

TESTING IN BREVARD COUNTY

I.   The Melbourne OMNI Healthcare drive-thru coronavirus test facility opens to the public at 8 a.m. Tuesday. Daily hours will be 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Eligible patients:
• Anyone older than 60
• Anyone with minimal symptoms of a cough or low-grade fever
• Anyone older than 45 with a chronic illness
• First responders
• Publix and Winn-Dixie employees
• Health care workers

Pre-qualification is required. For screening and registration, call 321-802-5515 or 321-727-1973. The address is 1344 S. Apollo Blvd. Insurances will be billed for testing. For more information, visit COVID19testbrevard.com (website blocked on NASA computers).

II.   DOH drive-thru tests

The Florida Department of Health in North, Central, & South Brevard started providing drive-thru COVID-19 tests to qualifying people with symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath and fever of 100.4. Eligible patients:
• Age 65 and older
• Those with underlying health conditions
• First responders
• Anyone else with symptoms (fever, cough and/or SOB) and a prescription from a medical doctor

Appointments must be scheduled in advance. For screening and registration, call 321-454-7141.

Corona Virus Gate Procedure

Team Patrick/Cape,

In an abundance of caution, and while there have been no reported cases of the COVID-19 virus at either facility, Patrick Air Force Base (PAFB) and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS), I have made the decision to elevate our Health Protection Condition (HPCON) to "Alpha". This change is in response to the growing presence of COVID-19 in the United States. We currently have no known cases in Brevard County. HPCON Alpha is advised when there is a "report of unusual health risk or disease". Prudence dictates our preparation for the potential presence of COVID-19 locally. Part of our preparation is moving to HPCON Alpha. All of the measures accompanying this increase in HPCON level have been accomplished and were accomplished last week in preparation. Our Medical Professionals have reviewed the plans and verified training and supply stocks. Our Medical Professionals are prepared to diagnose, isolate, and report any COVID-19 cases that they encounter. We are also increasing our communications of the health threat and symptoms of COVID-19. At the present time, we feel that preparation for COVID-19 is the appropriate action to take in addition to the restriction of large public gatherings. We will be reviewing all large gatherings on our installations and determining if they are mission essential, and we will provide updates on any cancellations or postponements. Rest assured, if further community control measures are indicated, we will proceed expeditiously and keep our community informed of our actions and the reasons for them. Our commitment to you remains to be transparent, and to protect individuals and the community as a whole to the maximum extent possible.

The BEST way to protect yourself is to practice basic HAND HYGIENE and RESPIRATORY ETIQUETTE: - Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. - Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. - Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. - Avoid close contact with people who are sick. - Stay home when you are sick. - Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory viruses, including COVID-19.

Additionally, for the health and safety of both Defenders and the public, the 45th Security Forces Squadron will modify base access procedures at all Base Entry Control Points. Effective immediately, Defenders will no longer touch your identification cards. Patrons are asked to first present the front side of your identification to the Entry Controller and then turn your identification so that it may be scanned. Note: This change is temporary until further notice.

Respectfully,
Brig Gen Doug Schiess

2019 AFTAC Dining Out
Saturday, 14 December
AFTAC -- "A Look Back at the Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC) 72-Year History"

What a better way and a great nite to celebrate as AFTAC Alumni, active duty, and civilians, than with "A Look Back at the Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC) 72-Year History" reflecting upon the outstanding accomplishments and history of AFTAC, then and now, at the 2019 AFTAC Dining Out. The well-orchestrated event and fond memories were held on Saturday nite, 14 December, at the 920th Rescue Wing hangar at Patrick AFB. An awesome backdrop of the WC-135 aircraft added to the great food, camaraderie, and well spent social and family time with fellow Team AFTAC Members. And, NO Dining Out or In, is complete, without a visit to the Grog Bowl!

The entire Alumni guests in attendance made a trip in the direction of the President of the Mess. They say the alcoholic one was like fire and the non-alcoholic was smooth and went down like water. Not the most tasteful, nor visionary appealing, by far. Good times and great memories! Definitely, a nite enjoyed by all in attendance.

AFTAC MEMORIAL CORPORATION (AFTACMC)

THE AFTAC MEMORIAL
By Lou Seiler, President AFTAC Memorial Corporation

The AFTAC memorial Corporation (AFTACMC) (a Florida non-profit 501(C)3 corporation) has for the past 24 months been conducting a fund raising to construct a memorial to those AFTACers who have passed away while serving in AFTAC. We initially raised enough to conduct a design effort and an estimated cost to build effort. The proposed design has previously been published in the Post Monitor, on the AFTAC Web Site (AFTACAA) and through an initial direct mailing (340) to those in the Alumni database with addresses in Florida.

When we began the process there was a large voicing of approval and comments of "when can we contribute?." Well, that time has definitely here!

In total, 29 donations (including 10 responses from the mailing) have been received to support the building of the memorial. In addition two pledges have been made, one by the AFTAC Alumni Association for $10,000, and one by as yet unnamed Alumni for $5,000. Of the 29 donors, there are 3 Silver ($2500-$4999) and one Bronze ($1000$2499).

It was our desire to have the Memorial Built and to have the Dedication Ceremony as a part of the 2021 AFTAC World Wide Reunion (WWR) in 2021 (around the June timeframe), however, that dedication timeline is no longer possible.

As of the date of this article, the AFTACMC has approximately $5700 in the building fund, with $15,000 in pledges for a total of $20,700. The estimated cost to build the proposed Memorial is $150,000 to $180,000. So you can see we are a long way off.

We see great enthusiasm for many things AFTAC, such as the PoMo, the every other year WWR, posts and followings on various FACEBOOK pages. I know that many, if not all, have very fond memories of their time in AFTAC, many with their entire service time in AFTAC. Many of you have known and/or have served with members who have died while in AFTAC.

At this point we are faced with making some very hard decisions and we would like your input. Should we abandon the concept of a Memorial, downsize it to the concept of a roadside historical marker, or continue to pursue something that shows the pride AFTACers had and continue to have in the important mission of AFTAC to national security. Donations in any amount are appreciated, the designation levels are $1-$149 - Donor, $150-999- Brick , $1000-2400- Bronze, $2500-$4999- Silver, $5000-$9999- Gold, and $10,000-up - Platinum

So we ask each of you to look deep into your heart and soul, as well as your checkbook to consider a donation to make this Memorial happen. It can only happen with YOUR help.

Donations for any amount can be made by a check made out to "AFTAC Memorial Corporation" and mailed to

AFTAC Memorial Corporation
2822 Englewood Drive
Melbourne, FL 32940

Or you may also click here to go to the website From there you may download a donation form, order a brick on-line, or make a donation only, and pay through PayPal using your credit card or through your own PayPal account.

We are asking for your help to build a lasting Memorial to the men and women who have served AFTAC for the past 73 years, and continuing into the future. It is your decision to make!

2019 AFTAC Fall Picnic

Friday, 25 October
2019 AFTAC Fall Picnic
1200 - 1700
Stonehenge / AFTAC Pavilion
Ticket Cost: $3 pp plus $2 contribution for beer arm band.
(Pay as you enter at the picnic).
POC (Building): MSgt Michael Nolan/321-494-9315
POC (AFTACAA): Sean Ryan/321-591-9053/oceanblueview@yahoo.com

Request for Volunteers to Work Adult Beverages Table

Greetings Fellow Alumni/Sir's/Ma'am, et al:

On Friday, 25 October, is the 2019 AFTAC Fall Picnic at the HQ AFTAC building area of Stonehenge and the AFTAC Pavilion, PAFB.

The AFTAC Alumni Association has been graciously asked once again, to work the Adult Beverages Table, with volunteers. There will be 4 taps. Times are from an estimated 1130 - 1730. (Prep-Time: 1130 - 1200. Serving Times: 1200 - 1700. Tear Down/Wrap-Up Time: 1700 - 1730).

Any time(s) one can support and volunteer for, will be greatly appreciated. I will comprise the roster in 1-hour increments of 2 folks per shift. (Max is 2 per shift). (Example attached)

If you'd like to volunteer, please reply to myself, with your name and time preference, by: Wednesday, 23 October 2019. (Email: oceanblueview@yahoo.com).

Additionally, all volunteers serving alcohol, are required to complete the Dram Shop Theory and What It Is Training. This must be completed, prior to serving, per AFI 34-119, Alcohol Beverage Management. Training will be conducted again, at the AFTACAA Monthly Meeting, Tuesday, 15 October, at 1530, in the HQ AFTAC Lobby Conference Room.

Thank you greatly for your support and assistance.
See ya'll at the picnic!

v/r SEAN P. RYAN
Treasurer, Publicity/Social Chair, AFTACAA

CMSGT Amy Long new AFTAC Command Chief

Chief Master Sergeant Amy L. Long is the Command Chief for the Air Force Technical Applications Center, Patrick Air Force Base, Florida, where she advises the AFTAC wing commander on matters concerning the readiness, utilization, training, morale and welfare of the 1,000- member center and its 14 detachments around the globe who support AFTAC's international treaty monitoring activities. AFTAC operates and maintains the United States Atomic Energy Detection System to monitor foreign compliance with various treaties limiting nuclear testing. AFTAC is also the designated U.S. laboratory system that provides technical support to the United Nations' International Atomic Energy Agency.

Long entered the Air Force in September 1994. She graduated from the Defense Language Institute as an Arabic Cryptologic Linguist in March 1996. Her background includes various duties in intelligence operations, joint service and training. Throughout her career, she has served in myriad positions including National Security Agency Functional Manager, Counterterrorism Senior Enlisted Representative, as well as Squadron and Group Superintendent. She has deployed in support of Operation New Dawn and completed overseas tours in Korea and Hawaii.

Prior to assuming her current position, Long served as the Chief, Strengthening Joint Leaders and Teams for the U.S. Air Force Strategic Integration Group at the Pentagon.

EDUCATION
1992 Oxnard High School, Oxnard, California
1994 Defense Language Institute, Foreign Language Center, Monterey, California
1996 Cryptologic Linguist Training, Goodfellow AFB, Texas
1999 Airman Leadership School, Shaw AFB, South Carolina
2005 Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Goodfellow AFB, Texas
2007 Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy (correspondence)
2008 Associate Degree, Communications Applies Technology, Community College of the Air Force
2010 Associate Degree, Arabic Studies, Defense Language Institute, Monterey, California
2011 Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Maxwell AFB, Alabama
2012 Professional Manager Certification, Community College of the Air Force
2014 Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resources, University of Maryland
2015 Air Combat Command Chief Orientation Course, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia
2017 Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education II (correspondence)
2017 Continuous Process Improvement Senior Leaders Course, Air University, Maxwell AFB, Alabama
2017 Command Chief Master Sergeant Training Course, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland
2019 Senior Enlisted Legal Orientation, Air Force Judge Advocate General's School, Maxwell AFB, Alabama


ASSIGNMENTS
1. September 1994 - October 1994, student, Basic Military Training School, Lackland AFB, Texas
2. October 1994 - March 1996, student, Basic Course, Defense Language Institute, Foreign Language Center, Monterey, California
3. March 1996 - August 1996, student, Cryptologic Linguist Course, Goodfellow AFB, Texas
4. August 1996 - April 2003, Cryptologic Linguist, Mission Manager, 31st Intelligence Squadron, Fort Gordon, Georgia
5. April 2003 - July 2006, Military Language Instructor, Defense Language Institute, Foreign Language Center, Monterey, California
6. July 2006 - September 2007, Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of Operations Production, 94th Intelligence Squadron, Fort George G. Meade, Maryland
7. September 2007 - January 2009, Superintendent, 94th Mission Support Squadron, Fort George G. Meade, Maryland
8. June 2008 - October 2008, Noncommissioned Officer in Charge, Joint Functional Component Command-Network Warfare, All-Source Analyst Deployment, Fort George G. Meade, Maryland
9. January 2009 - December 2010, 1N3 Functional Manager, 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group, Fort George G. Meade, Maryland
10. December 2010 - June 2011, Middle East/Africa Senior Enlisted Representative, 22nd Intelligence Squadron, National Security Agency, Fort George G. Meade, Maryland
11. June 2011 - November 2011, Joint Expeditionary Tasking Deployment, Kirkuk and Baghdad, Iraq
12. December 2011 - March 2013, Counterterrorism Senior Enlisted Representative, 34th Intelligence Squadron, National Security Agency, Fort George G. Meade, Maryland
13. March 2013 - September 2013, Superintendent, 34th Intelligence Squadron, National Security Agency, Fort George G. Meade, Maryland
14. September 2013 - September 2015, Operations Superintendent, 303rd Intelligence Squadron, Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea
15. September 2015 - May 2017, Superintendent, 8th Intelligence Squadron, Joint Base Pearl Harbor- Hickam, Hawaii
16. May 2017 - August 2018, Superintendent 692nd ISR Group, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii
17. August 2018 - July 2019, Chief, Strengthening Joint Leaders and Teams, Air Force Strategic Integration Group, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
18. July 2019 - Present, Command Chief, Air Force Technical Applications Center, Patrick AFB, Florida


MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS Defense Meritorious Service Medal
Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters
Joint Service Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters
Air Force Commendation Medal
Joint Service Achievement Medal
Air Force Achievement Medal
Good Conduct Medal with one silver oak leaf and three bronze oak leaf clusters
National Defense Service Medal with service star
Iraq Campaign Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Korean Defense Service Medal


OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS
1994 Basic Military Training School Honor Graduate, Lackland AFB, Texas
2001 NCO of the Quarter, 543rd Intelligence Group, Lackland AFB, Texas
2008 NCO of the Quarter, 70th Intelligence Wing, Fort George G. Meade, Maryland
2008 SNCO of the Quarter, 70th Operations Group, Fort George G. Meade, Maryland
2011 Distinguished Graduate, Senior NCO Academy, Maxwell AFB, Alabama
2014 Magna cum laude, University of Maryland
EFFECTIVE DATE OF PROMOTION
Chief Master Sergeant October 2015

Florida AFTAC Alumni Association Monthly Meeting
Monday, 10 February
1600 - 1700
HQ AFTAC, Lobby Conference Room

AFTAC Alumni Association (AFTACAA)
Annual Fall Golf-n'GetTogether XXXV
Friday, 11 October 2019

Venue: Manatee Cove Golf Course, PAFB. Check-in:1130;
Shotgun Start: 1300. (Format: 4-Person Scramble).

Cost: $40 (Alumni Members); $45 (Non-Alumni Members).
Fee includes: Golf, Cart, Range Balls, and
BBQ from Tides Club served for Dinner

Open to: AD Military, Retirees, Civilians, and Contractors

Mulligan's pkgs will be on sale: $5 gets you:
1 Red Bomb, 1 Nolan, & 1 Mulligan
Team Mulligan ball: available for $10

POCs:
Mr. Ed Lindsay -- 321-610-7548 (Unlisted)
Mr. Bruce Snelgrove-- 321-494-6166 (Unlisted)

Fun Spot

I'm posting the video several days after our 4th of July to stress that we should remember what our nation stands for each and every day of our lives and not on just one day of the year.

The words to this song were written in 1893….that's 126 years ago. The words are sub-titled. Read them….understand them and think about what they really mean. Consider this mindset of our great citizens so many years ago. Every school child, every new legal citizen (and some no-so-legal), every school teacher, every law officer and members of our own government offices, and yes, every one of us should read and understand these hallowed words. These words reflect what our nation should be.

I'm not trying to get political, I, as many of you, just love our country. One great thing about our country is that nobody can force you to watch this.

Your AFTAC Website Chairman

On Tuesday, April 30, 2019, AFTAC conducted their annual Wall of Honor Ceremony.

This event was established back in 2014, with 12 individuals initially being inducted. Every year since, AFTAC has selected 3 individuals to be inducted.

This year one of the honorees was Col (retired) Frank Hall. It brought a great feeling to my heart seeing this individual who has done so much for the AFTAC Alumni Association finally being honored for his contributions to AFTAC.

Early in my 30 year career, I was blessed to have met Col Hall while stationed at my first overseas assignment in Korea. He was in Hawaii at the time. And I have had the pleasure of working with him while part of the AFTACAA.

The other two honorees were Dr. George Rothe and Lt Col (Retired) Michael MacInnes. Both of these individuals well deserving of this honor.

The attendance was a little sparse (in my opinion) I counted 12 people in uniform. Maybe another 30 people that work in the bldg, that weren't part of the ceremony.

It was a GREAT turnout by the AFTAC Alumni Association members! A monumental effort and constant professionalism was executed by Dr. Mike Young, the AFTAC Historian. In my opinion, without Mike, this would not be the success it has been the past 5 years.

Some of the Alumni members I saw in attendance, that don't still work in the bldg were Mike Hoy, Tony DeMarco, Don and Jan Whitney, Arlin Massey, Frank and Edna Calenda, Gene and Dee Melchoir, Lou Seiler, Bob Wiley, John Horsch, Judy Henderson, Rick Manley and I am sure others I may have missed.

We had great representation from our Alumni members still fighting the good fight like, Addison Mitchell, Bruce Snelgrove, Carol Snyder, Kevin Callan, George Mirda, CMSgt Chad Madore, CMSgt Jason Gainor, Dr. Glenn Sjoden, Mike Young, Doris Bruner, and Others I probably missed.

Great to see the support for those that came before us and the recognition for their contributions.

Team AFTAC
One Team, One Fight!

News Of The Toilet Bowl Winners

This from Kathie Querry, 04.05, FaceBook, 'AFTAC Families in the know

The 2019 Toilet Bowl is in the archives. The undefeated 709CYS-Cyber Knights claimed the coveted Commanders Toilet Bowl Trophy!

The Deuce & Flush went to the 709YMXS-KRAKENS. Mr Brad Schulz from CIL claimed the Golden Plunger Award with 6 over the fence in the Home Run Derby.

The Brown Crown (Poop Stick) was bestowed upon 21SURS/23ANS-MISSION UP, who will run the 2020 games.

Special thanks to our host 22SURS (MSgt Assunto/SSgt Palmer) for a GREAT WING EVENT!!

Thanks to all the volunteers who selflessly gave their time to keep the heritage of the Toilet Bowl going.

NOTE: (From Post Monitor Editor) It was a spectacular day and the alumni association was proud to be a part of the beverage dispensing group. Helping were Frank Calenda, Sean Ryan, Doug Colbary, and John Horsch made a 20-minute appearance!! Also, thanks to several of the active duty for their assistance with setting up the kegs and pouring when the lines got long.

AFTAC Alumni Association (AFTACAA)
Annual Spring Golf-n'GetTogether XXXIV
Friday, 7 June 2019

Venue: Manatee Cove Golf Course, PAFB. Check-in:1130
Shotgun Start: 1300. (Format: 4-Person Scramble).

Cost: $40 (Alumni Members); $45 (Non-Alumni Members).
Fee includes: Golf, Cart, Range Balls, and
BBQ from Tides Club served for Dinner
Open to: AD Military, Retirees, Civilians, and Contractors
Mulligan's pkgs will be on sale: $5 for 1 mulligan,
Red Bomb, & Nolan
Team Mulligan ball: available for $10
POCs: Mr. Ed Lindsay -- piston_horse@hotmail.com,
phone: 321-610-7548 (Unlisted)
Mr. Bruce Snelgrove -- robert.snelgrove@us.af.mil,
phone: 321-494-6166

2019 AFTAC Awards Ceremony
Patrick AFB Beach House
February 22, 2019

On the occasion of awards to the most outstanding AFTAC performers of the year, our 2019 Alumni Of The Year, Pete Gilbert was included in this ceremony.

Although this year's venue was more "relaxed" than previous ceremonies, the military honors were still preserved. Following a social hour, the assembly was then called to order.

The National Anthem was sounded, an invocation was given and distinguished guests were identified and the award nominees were announced.

A short presentation was made by Mr. Leland (Lee) Hathaway who spoke of his past military service and his deep appreciation of AFTAC and the work that is performed.

After the awards to the active duty and civilians' selectees, Pete Gilbert, accompanied by his wife Shirley, was called to the front to accept his Alumni of the Year award amidst a solid round of applause. He accepted the award from Colonel Hartman and Chief Joseph, he offered a sharp salute and returned to the Alumni table with a huge smile on his face.

Pete is very deserving of this award and the recognition given to him and all the Alumni by the AFTAC Commander.

Well done Pete!!!!

Click to see More Pictures

The Award"

AFTAC Alumni Retreat Attendance

On 14 January 2019, AFTAC participated in the Quarterly Formal Retreat Ceremony at HQ 45 Space Wing, Patrick AFB. In addition to the full complement of active duty AFTAC personnel performing the ceremony, a contingent of the AFTAC Alumni Association was privileged to attend.

It was a reliving of an old tradition and elicited pride from all who attended.

Article and Photos by Bob Chadwick, AFTAC Alumni

Website Committee Note: Mark Smith sent this to us a while back. It is an amazing effort by one of our AFTAC Alumni which only goes to prove that AFTAC'ers are multi-talented. Thanks for this input and your effort Mark.

AFTAC Alumni, I built the wooden AFTAC display as a going away gift for Mr. Jim Kelly. Jim was AFTAC's Operations Security (OPSEC) Manager when he retired from civil service, and had been with AFTAC since 1991 (military and civilian). I had a "wire-frame" outline drawing of the building and decided that I wanted to make Jim something special for his going away gift…something no one else had. I took the wire-frame drawing and extrapolated the measurements to ensure they were "to scale". I used red oak for the main part of the building, sapele (looks like mahogany) for the stairs and concrete planters to the sides of the stairs, and black walnut for the windows and trim. I finished the display with a natural stain to bring out the grain of the wood, and sprayed 4 coats of lacquer. Either side of the entrance is adorned with the AFTAC coin, front and back. The flag I printed mirror images and glue it around a 1/8" dowel rod. The letters that spell out Air Force Technical Applications Center were made by a 3-D printer. I didn't have anything to scale the letters to other than photos of the front of Building 989. It took between 40 to 50 hours to create the display. I found the dragons at the flea market west of Melbourne and I-95 and had a friend airbrush them. The base of the display is made from red oak.

The purple dragons represent the OPSEC program. (Click here to learn more about OPSEC) A program that Jim Kelly took pride in every day at AFTAC. HE walked the walk and talked the talk, and brought a program that was given little more than lip-service to life, and even gained Air Force-level recognition. "OPSEC has always been an important factor in the military. Since Vietnam, OPSEC has become an established process used by military, federal, and state and local agencies, as well as private companies"

Jim would tell you, or anyone, that everyone in AFTAC is on the OPSEC Program team. It was his attitude that drew people to be more actively engaged in OPSEC. Jim Kelly definitely exhibited excellence in all he did, just as AFTAC has done for more than 70 years.

There is something nostalgic about that old Tech Lab to me…as a kid arriving here in 1973, riding by the building every day of my childhood knowing my dad worked there, and it was just so big!!! It is much like home to many AFTACers that have spent part of if not all of their career there. To many people, it was home, and they loved it as it had become a symbol of excellence not only at Patrick Air Force Base, but also to the Air Force and to our nations' leaders.

Thank you for your interest. I have considered trying to recreate the entire complex, rocket garden and all, but that could take several hundreds of hours. I would have to research to find out what rockets were on display.
Mark Smith

AFTAC Toilet Bowl 2017
by George Mirda

December 1st in the North means football, snow and below zero temperatures, but at the Viera Regional Sports Complex and to AFTAC active duty, civilians, contractors and alumni the temps are 80F, beer and softball tournaments.

Friday began at 0900 with spirited play and challenge rounds. Event lead, SMSgt Steve "Carp" Carpenter from DO, organized committees and set up a fantastic venue for hundreds of attendees with all the trimmings (barbeque pork a la TSgt Chevis Stanley) dogs, burgers, even an Italian Ice truck. Alumni hosted and managed 4 kegs of beer and a tasty cider to help cool down the players. John Horsch, Frank Calenda, Ed Lindsey assured tradition and 99 culture were maintained.

The tournament was superbly honchoed by Kathie Querry who made sure rigid compliance with rules complimented the fun atmosphere. After many games, including a loser's bracket ultimate loser (DO # 2 team … toilet bowl, number 2, get it?).

The loser becomes next year's Toilet Bowl organizer. The final game between Mission Support and the Directorate of Operations was hard fought, but in an exciting and razor-close finish, MS triumphed 8 runs to 7.

Prior to the big game, a home run derby was held for a field of nearly 20. Despite huge, powerful Casey's stepping up to bat, an everyman-sized nuclear engineer from TM, Capt Taylor Yousley, who played college baseball, knocked the most balls out of the park and took home bragging rights and the envied slugger trophy.

Highlights of the day were, for the first time in a long time, a lack of major injuries, some terrific cornhole mini-tourneys, long chow lines, but satisfyingly more than enough food and drink for all to savor till the very end. Col Gorski threw out the first pitch and flipped the ceremonial coin to determine the final game's to the field or at-bat. Later, he and Command Chief Joseph presented the latrine-themed awards.

The Toilet Bowl harkens back to it's annual namesake softball tournament 4 decades ago at AFTAC's depot/laboratory on McClellan AFB, California. My observation is that deadly cigarettes have been replaced with much more healthy cellphones. Soft drinks have taken a backseat to bottled water. Yet what hasn't changed is the competitive spirit and camaraderie that sports brings out in everyone whether player, official or spectator. Plus the USAF's finest organization and best people made it a day to remember for years to come.

AFTACAA Board Meeting Minutes by Year

Federal TriCare Dental and Vision Plans Changing

As many of you might know, those of you that have the Tricare Delta Dental coverage, it will terminate on December 31st of this year. We have provided our website readers with four notifications and this will be the final one.

If you do not respond to the new program, you will be AUTOMATICALLY DROPPED from the program until the next open enrollment at the end of 2019.

A couple things I will note. Be sure to read about how some of the plans that are offered, will require that you be enrolled for up to a year before certain procedures will be covered, even if you presently have a plan with them. Also, you might want to check with your dentist office to make sure they are enrolled in the plan you might select.

Regards, Your Alumni Website guys

Awards and Wall of Honor Presentations

"Two exciting annual events are in the planning stages. AFTAC will have it's Annual Awards and Wall of Honor Presentation in the near future. Watch the Hot Topics and the Calendar of Events for updates."

AFTAC Commanders Message on the Organizational Excellence Award

It is an honor to recognize the Air Force Technical Applications Center's recent achievement of the Air Force Organizational Excellence Award from 1 Jun 15 - 31 May 17.

Over the past two years, AFTAC has done a tremendous job maintaining mission focus and supporting the fight around the globe. National Agencies, Combatant Commands, and Staffs constantly rely on our hard work and expertise to enforce our national deterrence strategy and shape our national policies. As Commander, I have reiterated many times that AFTAC's actions are constantly being noticed by those outside this building - today is no different.

Congratulations AFTAC, on achieving another Air Force Organizational Excellence Award! We were 1 of 10 organizations within Air Combat Command chosen to receive this honor, and it is no doubt due solely to our professional workforce's commitment to the mission and dedication in service to our Nation.

AFTAC Ladies Christmas Luncheon
By Judy Henderson

Following a long tradition (which started when AFTAC was located in Virginia) of having an AFTAC Ladies Christmas Luncheon, a handful of AFTAC ladies (active and retired) gathered at Beef O'Brady's in Satellite Beach, FL, on 6 December.

As usual, there was a lot of chatter among the attendees to catch up on news of what everyone is doing these days and to see pictures of a new grandbaby and to talk about everyone's family and health.

Part of our tradition for the last several years is to bring a donation for TOYS FOR TOTS, and we had a great collection to donate to the cause this year.

Ladies, if you're interested in attending next year, watch the AFTAC Alumni Web site or Email Judy Henderson at jem2415@earthlink.net to be placed on the list of those who receive a direct invitation.

70th Anniversary of AFTAC
By Judy (Milam) Henderson,
AFTAC Alumni (1965 to 1999)

AFTAC's Last 70 Years

Modification Log

PoMo Mailing List

Eall Address Report

All Email Addresses Report

Wunderground Weather

This site is produced by The Weather Company, and IBM Business and, in the past, has proven quite accurate for path projection. It is NOT provided on this website for use as a planning tool. Information from your local city emergency center should be used for planning purposes.

There are other options on this site that can be explored for additional information on world-wide storms and weather in your area. Don't hesitate to explore this site.

National Hurricane Center

This site is produced by the National Hurricane Center and, in the past, has proven quite accurate for path projection. It is NOT provided on this website for use as a planning tool. Information from your local city emergency center should be used for planning purposes

Instructions for use:

There are other options on this site that can be explored for additional information on world-wide storms and weather in your area. Don't hesitate to explore this site.

West Coast Chapter Fall Social & Election Of Officers

Wall of Honor Selection Process begins in August

On 16 August, the AFTAC Heritage Committee will begin the five-month process of selecting the next inductees into the AFTAC Wall of Honor. Each year, the committee selects three exceptional AFTAC veterans for this honor. The committee members, delegates from each of the directorates, work within their respective organizations to nominate candidates. Each directorate may nominate three people.

The Heritage Committee, chaired by the vice commander, reviews the nomination packets throughout the fall time frame and votes in early December.

After the commander approves the results, AFTAC holds a formal ceremony in late January or early February. Bob Wiley represents the AFTAC Alumni Association on the committee.

Please contact Bob at rwiley1@cfl.rr.com with any questions you may have.

AFTAC Booster Club News

Booster Club activities are included in the Calender of Events that can be viewed on our Main Page.

2023 BoosterClub Officers

A Piece of History - by Jack O'Connor

It was September 1955 and I had just completed our roughly three months of training in Tail # 263---our beloved C-47 "Goony Bird"--- and WB-29's, which had been modified to conduct training and operations for our specialty. I had just been certified to operate solo as a Special Equipment Operator. I was stationed at my first permanent duty assignment: Western Field Office of the 1009th Special Weapons Squadron, McClellan AFB, CA. WB-29's were also stationed at McClellan AFB, but as the 57th Air Weather Squadron. The SEO would be the eleventh man on the crew. We had no crew position available, so we sat on the floor in the rear compartment with our back against the bomb bay bulkhead between the two scanners. After takeoff, the SEO would take over the right scanner position where our equipment had been pre-positioned and tied down. Looking back upon it, we were the only thing not tied down. We didn't know any better and we had a job to do on that aircraft, so we didn't worry about it.

In the WB-29's, we only had a "honey bucket" which was situated directly behind the left scanner position. All human excretions went into that bucket. You can imagine, though you may not want to, just how bad that thing was smelling after we all had been drinking coffee for awhile in briefings and preflight duties without being able to avail ourselves of the scant facilities in the hangar. The beloved honey bucket was used soon and often. More later about that! It is not germane to this story. Directly behind that was the place where we put the box containing all of our lunches---two per crewmember. Twenty two box lunches. We had no heated lunches back in those days. We didn't have a means to heat them.

Back SACTO: I was lying there next to my new bride dreaming of a wonderful something or other. We were startled out of our slumber with the shrill ring of our telephone.

"This is Capt. Copeland. Airman O'Connor, a staff car will be in front of your apartment in 30 minutes to pick you up for transport to San Francisco Int'l Airport. I can't tell you where you are going from there, but be packed and ready for 30 days. We will keep your wife informed on your progress. Others are going with you."

And, thanks to the originator of our concern and the time difference, our alert always seemed to come at about the same time: 3:00AM, PST. The big problem with this is that we never knew what day it might happen or who and how many SEO's would be called to go. It varied with each occasion, so we always had a bag packed ready to go.

So started my first TDY. We always had a First Class Ticket in our pocket because there was almost always room back there, even if the rest of the plane was sold out. (The Pan American Clipper had a great lounge down a circular stairway where, if we were first to get there, we could stretch out on the sofas. There was no bar service at 5:00 AM). We always just had to get to our destination ASAP. Positioning was of prime importance. Our own Weather Man from 1009th SWS HQ at Langley AFB was on his way to provide expertise in where we should be flying. We had to hit the ground running and be airborne in a WB-29 within 12 hours. Most times one of us would be airborne within three hours of our arrival at Eielson AFB, AK, if we had a good idea of where we needed to be.

There was no such thing as "Crew Duty Time". We flew as needed. We learned real fast, that this was the routine method of initiating a TDY for anyone in the Cloud Chasing Business ((or: our type of business)). Capt Buck Copeland and A/1c Guy Davis flew alternating days for over a month. On their "day off", they manned the desk---monitoring and reporting up the line what was happening in the aircraft. Obviously, neither had any crew rest. They both were burned out by the time the operation concluded.

That was the beginning of six great years with the 1009th SWS and flying as an enlisted Aircrew Member. Initially, we were considered additional Non-Crew Member, which paid us $50.00 per month for "hazardous duty pay". Most of us just wanted to be able to wear enlisted crewmember wings, but a raise in pay to $55.00 per month would be a welcome increase in our meager pay---as would the designation of flight pay. It was minimal compensation for being separated from wife and baby girl for sudden, and frequent separations from the family. It was especially hard on my wife who did not know what we were doing let alone where we were going or why.

The Aircraft Commanders (AC's) always were a little curious if we hadn't flown with him before, because the flying time we logged was "z" time, listed as 'other". That was an unusual crewmember designation. He stayed suspicious until we found what we were looking for. Then, I think, he understood.

One of the most amazing aspects to me, and probably most of us, was the ability of an A/2C to tell a Lt Col where to take his modified bomber and tell him when to turn and when to orbit. It was a little scary the first few times, but they had been briefed and I only had one flight when the Aircraft Commander did not follow my instructions and what flight profile I wanted.

B-36 It was during a roughly twenty seven hour RB-36 mission and we were headed back to Travis AFB without any success. Exhausted, I thought I'd take a nap, and though we had 2 engines shut down, we still had 8 engines working so I told the AC to maintain 35,000 ft as long as possible and then make a steep approach to Travis AFB. I went to sleep which was understandable (In addition, RB-36 pre-flight took about 3 hours, so I had been at or in the plane for over 27 hours already). The Aircraft Commander decided to make a long shallow approach to Travis so we lost about 3 hours off of the high altitude profile I had requested. During my "nap time", I had the radio operator monitor my equipment in the event anything happened.

Upon landing, I gave a long sigh of relief, knowing crew rest and a loving wife was awaiting me at McClellan. Instead, Immediately after engine shutdown, I had a big surprise awaiting my arrival. As I disembarked, I was surprised, shaken and not a little frightened to see our Field Office Commander, Col Griffin, waiting for me along with his secretary. Under the wing of the giant ten engine RB-36, at an improvised desk and chair, the secretary typed as I explained what happened. Two days later, the Aircraft Commander was a Co-Pilot. This was in General Curtis Lemay's Strategic Air Command. It was amazing how much clout a little airman had in this organization. Of course, this was when the Squadron had a two star General for a commander and we had the number one priority in the Air Force. There were four Full Colonels just in the Western Field Office at McClellan AFB, CA.

Though we had nothing to show for our long flight but flight time logged, it was still a successful mission. Just like hunting or fishing, there would be better results on the next time out!

Elections Meeting

Elections Meeting Location: Manatee Cove Golf Course (MCGC),
(Putter Room). Meeting: 1130 - 1230
Pay-as-You-Go Lunch available from Fairways Snack Bar, before meeting.
For your early dining pleasure, lunch, may be ordered, at 1030.

Colorado Alumni Breakfast

24 February 2018
AACO Alumni Breakfast
We would like to welcome you to our Alumni breakfast on 24 February 2018 at 0900.
Alumni, active duty, family members, and friends are most welcome to attend.
Aurora Hills Golf Course - Tin Cup Bar & Grill
50 S. Peoria St. Aurora, CO 80012
The cost is $15 per person, collected at the breakfast. Children are half-price.
Menu is the Tin Cup buffet, with eggs, potatoes, meats, biscuits & gravy, toast, juice and coffee.
Please RSVP by 17 February (you can reply all to this message).
We hope to see you there!
Colorado Alumni POC: Bryce Dunn, EchoesPublisher@aftacco.org

History and Heritage: Similar, yet different Commentary
by Chief Master Sgt. Michael Joseph, AFTAC Command Chief

I would venture to guess that many people use the word "history" and "heritage" interchangeably. I have to admit, I used to think they were synonymous and never gave much thought to the idea that not only are they two separate and distinct words, they are also two separate and distinct concepts.

Let me explain. The textbook definition of the word history is: the study of past events, particularly in human affairs. The definition of the word heritage is: a legacy, tradition or inheritance; something possessed as a result of one's situation. Different words with different meanings, but inextricably intertwined.

AFTAC's history is a robust one, filled with 'firsts' for our nation from our inception in 1947 until present day. The center's history is a chronological account of what AFTAC has accomplished for the past 70 years and the compilation of events that define us as an Air Force organization.

Heritage, on the other hand, has a bit of emotion tied to it. It's about identity and a sense of belonging. Heritage is the "war story" about the people - the faces of AFTAC. It's the more intangible of the two words, since heritage deals more with the human landscape versus historic relics and artifacts.

Our proud history is reflected in our heritage, and much of that can be attributed to the AFTAC Alumni. Through your tireless efforts, the Alumni Association has gone to great lengths to preserve our past and keep our customs and traditions alive. I want to continue to foster this relationship between the AFTAC Alumni and our current active military and civilian workforce.

History is our past; heritage is a reminder of our past. Or as I like to say, history makes us smarter; heritage makes us prouder.

SnowBall 2018
Submitted By Gene and Dee Melchior

Show Slide Show

2018 AFTAC Alumni Association (AFTACAA) Snowball XX

Article - Sean Ryan
Photos - Michelle Ryan and Judy Henderson

Show Slide Show

Photo Gallery

Since 1999, the AFTAC Alumni Association (AFTACAA), Florida Chapter, has 'thrown a themed event called Snowball' at the start of the new year. We like to entertain this event when our 'Sage Snowbirds' are in town. It is a grand way to introduce the newly elected and appointed board members, recognize Alumni and Alumni accomplishments, hold a festive and social get-together followed by a sit-down dinner and wish old friends and Alumni a great start, to a new year. It is also a great time to honor and recognize the Alumni of the Year (AOY) for the previous year. This year's splendid and outstanding event and evening was held at the Holiday Inn Hotel, Melbourne-Viera, Florida, on Saturday, 20 January 2018. It is tradition at the annual Snowball, where we welcome the AFTAC Commander, Vice Commander, Chief Scientist, Director of Staff, Command Chief, Directors, Group and Squadron Commanders, all active-duty military and civilian, and any outlying area commanders, that are in attendance. We also pay special tribute to the spouses and significant others in support of Alumni members at the Snowball.

The nights festivities kicked off with a Social Hour where guests enjoyed reminiscing about AFTAC and catching up and socializing with old friendships and sharing memories of their time in the unit, around-the-world, or in the headquarters building at Patrick AFB thru the years. The bartender "Ryan", once again, was truly superb in serving great cocktails and beverages throughout the evening. The yearly slide show, organized and built by Bob Wiley with photos by Judy Milam-Henderson of previous Snowball's, Winter Socials, Golf Tournaments, Toilet Bowl and Winddowns, was continually shown. Memories of some good times for the year were shown with photos taken by Bob Wiley and Judy Milam-Henderson, among others that contributed.

This year's theme, was "Mobile Sensors", joining previous themes honoring Hawaii, Germany, Florida, Wyoming, Thailand, Australia, Korea, Nebraska and Colorado … locations where AFTAC had or has a presence, among others worldwide. It honored unit members presently serving on, or have served on, the ships that continue to conduct a key aspect of the world-wide AFTAC mission, 24/7. Of special note, Dr. Mike Young, the AFTAC Historian, provided 2 models of the respective ships for display, answered a Q&A with guests questions during the evening, and briefed certain aspects of their respective mission(s). Thank you kindly Dr. Young -- Well done and greatly appreciated!

A very delicious dinner for the evening was served consisting of Hunter's Chicken Breast w/Mushroom Wine Sauce, Mashed Potatoes and Vegetable Medley, or Flat Iron Steak with Roasted Potatoes, Vegetable Medley and Wine Mushroom Sauce or Portobello Mushroom Napoleon w/Fresh Vegetables and Red Pepper Sauce. Accompaniments included House Salad, Dinner Rolls and Butter, Iced Tea, Water, Coffee, and a delightful and delicious dessert of Key Lime Pie. After a brief break after dinner, the AFTAC Commander, Colonel Steven Gorski, provided an outstanding Power Point slide mission brief and overview of AFTAC's current activities and status. His Status of Command slide show, was truly "spot on" and brought the AFTACAA "in tune and current" with the mission they once served in, and what is on the horizon for AFTAC down the road.

The evening ended with the announcement of the AFTAC Alumni of the Year for 2017. TSgt(R) John "Butch" Kemna, from the West Coast Chapter in Sacramento, CA was selected. Butch's name was initially announced at the June 2017 Worldwide Reunion in Sacramento. The AFTACAA officially announced his name to welcome him into the honored recipients of the AOY ranks. Florida Chapter Alumni member, Gene Melchior, graciously provided photos and made poster boards of items taken in 1999, while he was aboard, the now decommissioned Cobra Judy ship ("Observation Island"), while he was a contractor aboard the ship.

Judy Milam-Henderson and Michelle Ryan made centerpieces decorated with nautical figures and "sea like" items, that were an awesome compliment to the ship displays. Thank you Judy and Michelle…It added so much color and "theme diversity" to the guest tables. A special thanks to all Team AFTAC Alumni Members and Spouses that volunteered to help with the various tasks and support required to provide for an awesome evening for all in attendance, once again. We look forward to the 2019 Snowball XXI in January 2019, when the Alumni gather once again, to mingle, socialize, and reminisce of the times we were in and the current AFTAC of today and recognize 2019 AOY.

Mission
The Air Force Technical Applications Center provides national authorities quality technical measurements to monitor nuclear treaty compliance and develops advanced proliferation monitoring technologies to preserve our nation's security. It is the sole organization in the federal government whose mission is to detect and report technical data from foreign nuclear explosions to national decision makers.

Consisting of more than 3,600 sensors worldwide, AFTAC operates and maintains a global network of nuclear event detection equipment called the U.S. Atomic Energy Detection Systems (USAEDS), the largest sensor network in the U.S. Air Force. Once a disturbance is detected underground, underwater, in the atmosphere or in space, the event is analyzed for nuclear identification, and the findings are reported to command authorities.

AFTAC has been a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency's network of labs since 1991. The center provides analytical support to the Department of Defense with a laboratory system designed and developed for nuclear treaty monitoring in direct support to the IAEA. Additionally, AFTAC provides direct technical, analytical and evaluative support to the IAEA through its program of enhanced safeguards inspections to monitor nuclear proliferation activities in signatory states. The Nonproliferation Treaty, or NPT, is the cornerstone of international efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote arms control and disarmament in order to achieve and maintain an effective international safeguards system while promoting peaceful cooperation in nuclear energy.

AFTAC's nuclear event detection mission is directly linked to its nuclear treaty monitoring mission. AFTAC monitors signatory countries' compliance with the 1963 Limited Test Ban Treaty. This treaty prohibits nuclear testing anywhere but underground and prohibits the venting of nuclear debris or radiation from those tests into the atmosphere outside the country's national borders. AFTAC also monitors the Threshold Test Ban Treaty of 1974 and the Peaceful Nuclear Explosion Treaty of 1976. The 1974 treaty limits the size of underground nuclear tests to 150 kilotons, while the 1976 treaty prohibits the testing of nuclear devices outside of agreed treaty sites.

In 2014, AFTAC supplemented its extensive network of contracted laboratories by opening its state-of-the-art Ciambrone Radiochemistry Lab to analyze and assess compliance with nuclear weapons testing in support of USAEDS and AFTAC's Nuclear Debris Collection and Analysis Program. The 38,000 square foot lab filled a void created when the center's central laboratory at McClellan AFB, Calif., closed after the 1995 Base Realignment and Closure actions.

AFTAC is on the leading edge of technological research and the evaluation of verification technologies for current and future treaties involving weapons of mass destruction, which threaten our national security.

People
AFTAC employs more than 1,100 personnel and boasts a highly educated force possessing no fewer than 226 associate degrees, 262 bachelor's degrees, 274 master's degrees and 68 doctorate degrees.

Organization
AFTAC is a surveillance organization subordinate to 16th Air Force, an Air Combat Command Numbered Air Force, located at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas. AFTAC is located at Patrick Space Force Base on Florida's east coast, less than 30 miles south of the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. AFTAC includes 11 detachments, five operating locations and more than 60 unmanned equipment locations around the world supporting AFTAC's long range nuclear detection mission. In addition, AFTAC manages 11 world-class laboratories to assist the IAEA with the promotion of safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear technologies. In 2015, AFTAC became a wing equivalent within the Air Force, and in April 2018, the center added two new groups and nine new squadrons after its organizational change request became a reality. The new structure establishes clear responsibilities with common skills that allow commanders to develop the workforce more effectively.

History
Soon after the end of World War II, Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower recognized the need to monitor nuclear testing programs. In 1947 he directed the Army Air Forces to develop technologies capable of detecting "atomic explosions anywhere in the world." In 1949, a particulate sampler aboard an Air Weather Service modified B-29 flying between Alaska and Japan detected debris from the first Russian atomic test - an event experts predicted could not happen until the mid-1950s.

As the Air Force activated AFTAC in 1959 to prepare to monitor compliance with the Limited Test Ban Treaty, AFTAC assumed some responsibilities for the USAEDS and the advancement of Long Range Detection capabilities. Over time, AFTAC's various programs evolved into a unique resource system monitoring compliance with nuclear treaties; supporting our nation's space program; and helping to protect citizens during emergencies involving nuclear materials.

Over the years, the Air Force tasked the nuclear treaty monitoring center to conduct short-notice collection operations. In April 1986, AFTAC responded to the Ukrainian nuclear accident at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in the former Soviet Union. In total, AFTAC flew 55 sorties compiling 502 flying hours, and AFTAC's McClellan Central Laboratory processed 354 samples and logged more than 2,500 man-hours.

In October 2006, AFTAC detected an event associated with North Korea's claim of a nuclear test and later provided verification of the nuclear event to national authorities.

After a tsunami struck Japan and led to the meltdown in three of the six nuclear reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in 2011, AFTAC directly supported Operation Tomodachi, the U.S. government's response to the 9.0 earthquake. AFTAC personnel flew nine nuclear debris collection sorties, processed 342 seismic events, and analyzed 660 samples from the affected Pacific peninsula.

In the summer of 2015, AFTAC led the removal of 10 Radioactive Thermoelectric Generators, or RTGs, from Alaska, which were no longer required to power AFTAC's seismic array. This power source was the Air Force's largest source of sensitive radioactive material. This endeavor safely and successfully removed nuclear radiation from the environment and eliminated a potential source of material for use by terrorists in improvised radiological explosive devices or dirty bombs.

The following December, the IAEA released its final assessment on "Past and Present Outstanding Issues" regarding Iran's nuclear program. AFTAC provided trace forensic analysis of samples supporting the IAEA's mission to monitor Iranian compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. As a major component of the IAEA's network of analytical labs, AFTAC's analysis was foundational to the report.

In January and September 2016, AFTAC sensors detected underground disturbances in the vicinity of North Korea's reported nuclear tests. The center's findings were based on seismic activity, which was quickly analyzed, packaged and elevated to national decision makers.

As Hurricane Irma barreled up the Florida peninsula in September 2017, members of the nuclear treaty monitoring center were simultaneously analyzing and reporting their findings on North Korea's purported nuclear test that registered a 6.3 on the Richter scale - 10 times more powerful than N. Korea's detonation in 2016.

When a failed Russian missile launch resulted in the dispersal of nuclear materials in the fall of 2019, AFTAC Airmen were the first to recognize the explosion. Through synchronized efforts, the center analyzed and investigated the explosion, ultimately shaping the U.S. strategic response to the event and enabling the U.S. Department of State to expose Russia's harmful behavior to partners across the region.

AFTAC is also on the forefront of protecting the homeland as it establishes an array of sensors across the United States as part of the National Technical Nuclear Forensics program. This program is designed to collect forensic analysis after detonations to aid the Federal Bureau of Investigation in attributing attacks on U.S. soil to foreign governments or terrorist entities to swiftly bring those responsible to justice. AFTAC's efforts are making the Department of Defense's vision to protect U.S. personnel and interests from the threat of a domestic nuclear detonation a reality.

Operated by Military Sealift Command through a support agreement with the U.S. Air Force, AFTAC leads the onboard operations team aboard the USNS Howard O. Lorenzen (HOLO). The ship is home to the COBRA KING radar system, an integrated surveillance and ballistic missile data collection platform to support U.S. nuclear treaty monitoring activities. The radar suite consists of X-band and S-band phased-array sensors, a common radar suite controller, and other mission-related equipment. COBRA KING provides the U.S. with highly flexible, long-loiter, ballistic missile data collection capabilities and provides short-notice response capability to satisfy worldwide Defense Department taskings.

In December 2021 and in concert with Military Sealift Command, AFTAC inactivated its second ballistic missile radar tracking ship, USNS Invincible, which housed the GRAY STAR radar system that provided unique, high quality, high resolution, multi-wavelength radar products that were used to monitor U.S. or foreign missile, space or weapons tests worldwide. Launched in 1986 and put into full operational service in 1987, Invincible's original mission was to patrol the seas looking for submarines using its sonar array. The vessel was refitted in 2000 to support Joint Chiefs of Staff missions to monitor missile or weapons test events that could pose hazards or threats to air or surface navigation. The decision to inactivate the ship was based on higher headquarters requirements to balance sustainment costs, operational effectiveness, and the Department of Defense's pivot to strategic competition. The DoD has a wide range of capabilities to support ballistic missile defense operations that continue to operate throughout the world today.

AFTAC also provides airborne Special Equipment Operators and mission systems maintenance personnel on the WC-135C/W Constant Phoenix, an atmospheric collection aircraft that collects particulate and gaseous effluents and debris from accessible regions of the atmosphere in support of the Limited Test Ban Treaty. The onboard atmospheric collection suite allows the mission crew to detect radioactive "clouds" in real time through its external flow-through devices that collect particulates on filter paper and through its internal compressor system that collects whole air samples. Operated and maintained by the 45th Reconnaissance Squadron at Offutt AFB, Neb., in support of AFTAC's 21st Surveillance Squadron, the WC-135 is the only aircraft in the Air Force inventory that conducts air sampling operations.

In November 2020, the Air Force officially decommissioned WC-135 Tail #582 after more than 29,600 flying hours. In July 2022, AFTAC welcomed a new aircraft to its inventory for the first time in decades - Tail #836, a modified KC-135R Stratotanker to replace the aging WC-135C/W fleet. The center expects to accept delivery of a second WC-135R by the end of 2023, and a third in early 2024.

Today, AFTAC continues to improve the USAEDS. As the nation's caretaker of USAEDS, AFTAC works closely with the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization in Vienna, Austria. Together, both parties are significantly improving the International Monitoring System. In fact, AFTAC now contributes six of its U.S.-based USAEDS seismic monitoring stations to the IMS.

AFTAC Mission Statement: Deliver Decision Advantage Against Enduring WMD Threats and Emerging Weapons Systems.

AFTAC Vision Statement: Science for Consequence

(Current as of March 2023)

Point of Contact
AFTAC Public Affairs
(321) 494-7688

Memories of an OL

I am a veteran of the obscure OL AS, also known as VELA Seismological Center/VSC, I was there from '72 - '75. It was located at 312 Montgomery St in (Old Town) Alexandria. Oddly, the building is still there and is now occupied by a political consulting firm.

While this started as an offsite branch of AFTAC TG-1 when it was at Telegraph Road, it continued into the late 1970s as OL AS after AFTAC "moved south".

While the true AFTAC mission was classified at the time, VSC mainly spent ARPA (now DARPA) money for test ban treaty related research and mainly functioned in the unclassified world - even hosting Soviet visitors at one point!

Hope our history is not forgotten. VSC was the original home of Dr. Frank Pilotte who became better known after he moved to Florida.

It is also where Ralph Alewine started as a 2nd Lt. transferring from the Army. He later went on to major positions in DoD in test ban treaty matters.

So while OL AS was not in an exotic overseas location, it functioned for more than a decade as a visible "tip of the iceberg" for AFTAC for international cooperation related to test ban discussions. It also developed, along with its onsite contractors, algorithms for digital signal processing of seismic data for underground nuclear test detection purposes.

Michael J. Marcus

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