DC '60 Luncheons and other Gatherings
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We have a group of guys here in Washington that call ourselves THE DC '60. We get together for lunch once a quarter or so to tell lies and swap war stories. I usually do a recap of the event for the guys that cannot make it. TONY*** BURSHNICK |
11 January 2012
| DC '60 et.al What a great luncheon to kick off the new year. 14 stalwarts were able to challenge the rain and the heat to meet at the Tom Burke Golf Club. Of those who could not make it: Doug Req was down in Hilton Head looking to buy a summer house; It was too cold for Bill Hales & Joe Higgins. Bob Odenweller was busy with his stamp business and Bob Fischer stayed up in Pennsylvania trying to recover from back injuries he suffered cleaning the trees and snow in his yard from an earlier snow and wind storm. Epidural treatment and physical therapy seem to be working but he needed the rest. Then Mike Clarke. As most of you know on Saturday evening, the 14th, his wife Nancy passed away from heart failure caused by respatory problems. Norm Haller will be forwarding items about Nancy that appeared on the Washington internet . As more details become available I will pass them on. Right now Mike is staying in Mechanicsville, VA with his daughter Suzanne. Andi Biancur, we reviewed the articles that you and Jock sent us earlier. After we all reviewed them there were no objections to your plans for the class heritage fund. Mike Loh did have a question as to how many people are honorary members of the AOG?? Do you have that info? Mike Loh did attend the USAFA /Toledo bowl game and was probably the only class member there. He also gave us a good rundown on the efforts he is making to show folks the value of airpower. He has had numerous article published most recently in the NY Times and the Airpower Magazine. Mike's son is now a BG in the National Guard. Mike left us with one bit of philosophy. "IT IS BETTER TO BE OVER THE HILL THAN UNDER THE HILL". Norm Haller is soon traveling to Ohio to celebrate his Mothers 100th birthday anniversary. All is well with the rest of his family. Ken Alnwick is still working the laser issues with the Navy. Bill Carnegie just got back form attending the Rose bowl parade and then visiting with his out West family members. He has another test to check on his lymphoma and if that turns out well he will be good for another year. Ralph Lalime had son, Jay, and family here in VA for the holidays. They are back in western Mass. now. Tomorrow Ralph and Jerry de la Cruz will go on a ski vacation in Massanuten , VA . I guess they are getting ready for the Al Johnson ski school trip to Utah in late February. Ralph also wanted to recommend a book written by a former USAFA history professor, Pau Ringenbalk, that is about Dean McDermott and all he did for the Academy. I would recommend it too. Great Book. Leon Goodson had a nice family get together in Seattle a few months ago. That is to get him and Marin ready for a summer European trip. Besides the ski trip Jerry and Betty de la Cruz are doing well. Betty is recovering nicely from her knee surgery. Even plays tennis. Bob Badger told us he recently bought a coronet and is now playing in a local church. Al Johnson just finished the guest apartment in his Maine home so you are all invited to spend a winter or two with him and Gale. He gets to spend some time with Don Stevens who is doing well. Al is also ready to sell you his old house here in VA. Les Querry had a nice conversation with Ace Holman. Ace is doing OK. Les also encouraged us to check the class internet for some good articles about out NW gang and the boys in Colo. Spgs. Bill Hockenberry shared some highlights of Bill Goodyear's career at USAF. Bill's grandkids are doing well and he is still working hard on all the union issues. George Fries had some back problems too but his epidural seems to be working. Tom Burke is still working two or three jobs. His wife, Mary, is having some dental problems but she is grinding it out. I get no better. I have a visit with the docs at Ft. Belvoir next week so there may be help out there somewhere. My good news is that our grand daughter lettered in volleyball after her first semester at Indiana University. Scholarships are great. We decided that we will meet again on the 2nd of April for a Founders Day Luncheon. We also will have the wives join us for this event. So get the date on your wife's calendar. TONY*** NULLI SECUNDUS |
Oh! About the bear in the above photo. Since Les Querry has so many bear
visits on the mountain, one of the stalwarts brought one to join us for lunch.
11 November 2011
Here's how the STARGAR crowd (DC '60 life members of the VFW) spent Veterans Day,
getting together at Ken Alnwicks house for a Veterans
Day luncheon.
11 July 2011
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DC '60 et.al. |
1 April 2011
___________________________________________________________
Our Congenial Host
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Howdy Gents, Well a dozen of the stalworths got together today, April 1st, and acknowledged Founders Day. First off the guys who could not make it to Tom Burke's Golf Club. Chaplain Lalime and Darlene are basking in the Florida sunshine. Hope that big storm missed Sanabel, Ralph. Bill Goodyear was in Florida to attend funeral services for his sister-in-law. You have our condolences, Bill. Too far for Rek, Bill Taylor, Long, and Joe Higgins to come at this time. Bob Odenweller is really tied up with the Philatelists. He has a number of speaking engagements and events in Europe. Besides it is a long way from North Jersey. Nobody knew where Bill and Ann Carnegie were. Bob Badger thought they were in Hawaii. Mike Loh was going to be at the USAFA for an Endowment Committee meeting but at the last minute Barb and he decided to attend a mini family reunion in Kansas City with Bill Kornitzer and brother John. Mike, Norm Haller took one of the calendars for the men at Randolph Macon Academy. There were no other takers. I think they all wanted a 2011 calendar!!! Ken Alnwick was hard at work with the sponsors of a Futures War Game. Every one is set to vote for the AOG Board members and complimented Dick Sexton on his rundown of candidates. Al Johnson told us all about his ski lift accident at the last ski school session. He had an MRI taken and it showed damage to a disc and some other problems with the neck area and lower back to include stenosis. He has been able to cope with the pain so no operation for now. His Mount Vernon mansion is up for sale again so let him know if you are interested. In a month or so he and Gale will head back to Maine and time at their summer home. Mike Clarke is getting along well. Nancy stays busy making speeches and very soon her book "My First Ladies" will be on the market. It should be an interesting account of her time in the White House with six different First Ladies. Mike plans to retire in a few months and then will move to the Richmond, VA area. Bob Badger regaled us with the story of the fire in the Shenendoah Mts. He watched it for three days from his house. Liliane is doing well. Jerry de la Cruz advised us that Nancy is doing great after her double knee replacement. She is in PT and walking pretty well. Jerry had a great time at the ski school and did not get hurt. Norm Haller is still trying to help get Randolph Macon to be one of the Academy prep schools. His grandson is doing very well at the Naval Academy. Les Querry told us about spending some time with our classmate Noel "BEETLE" Bailey. Beetle is having lots of health problems. Les also wanted to remind us that he and Marty will host the annual roosting at his house on the second of October. That is the weekend of the AF/Navy football game. His house will be open on the 1st for those of you that want to come watch the game on TV. Speaking of the game remember that George Fries has agreed to order a block of tickets for the game so let him know if you want to sit with the gang. Of course you will have too send him the money for the tickets. Let him know ASAP. GJC is also working with the Virginia MOAA to give out medals and money to deserving college and high schoolers. He also told us that Dean Bristow had a stroke after the reunion. However he is recovering and plans to be with George at the AF/NAVY game. Bob Fischer fought a typical Pennsylvania spring storm of snow, rain, sleet and fog on his drive down to attend the luncheon. He and Lutzi spent a wonderful month down at Marco Island in Florida earlier in the year. Can you believe he was watching eagles grow???? Bill Hockenberry was busy as ever working and traveling. He is tied up NATCA (National Air Traffic Controllers Association) trying to be sure they do the job right. We all got a lesson in how NATCA works or doesn't work!!!! Leon Goodson seems to be slowing down with work and is enjoying spending more time with the grand kids. He advised us that JT Smith's wife Diane has been slowed down with a serious foot problem. Tom Burke stays busy with his company, TEB Associates. He is working with two big customers. He also showed us a magazine with articles about his aircraft appraisals. As far as my condition: No improvement. I meet with my neuro surgeon on Tuesday to see if some way I can get rid of the back pain and the unsteadiness. I still need two canes or two of Jock Schwank's walking sticks to get around. We all agreed to get together again on Monday, the 11th of July, for a 55th year entry to USAFA anniversary luncheon. I will be sure to send you all a reminder as the date approaches. So in all a great time was had by all. Enjoy your spring. TONY*** NULLI SECUNDUS |
11 January 2011
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DC '60 et.al.
It just gets better every time we can get together. Despite the cold and
the threat of snow 14 stalwarts braved the elements and got together at the
Springfield Golf and Country Club for still another year opener lunch. Thanks
again to Tom Burke for setting up the luncheon.
First a quick run down on those who could not attend. Bill Hales and
Goodyear were down in Florida for the Destin '60 dinner. That should be a great
dinner get together. Bob Odenweller had a must attend stamp collector session
where he will receive still another award. He will also deliver a speech to a
group here in DC on the 4th of Feb. Doug Rek had business out West in Cal. and
Oregon. Bob Fischer had to help register some folks in PA for the upcoming
school semester. Mike Loh was busy too. This time it was a speech he had to
make at the NDU and then the Senior Statesman session with the CSAF. By the way
Mike I brought up the subject about letting attendees select the luncheon date
but they all agreed that the way we do it now suits them just fine. We agreed
that the next luncheon should be in commemoration of Founders Day on Friday the
1st of April. Hope you can make that one.
Tom Burke decided to spend some of his money (Yes he still works full time)
and bought a new Lincoln MKZ. His son had a child born last year so Tom and
Mary now have 12 grandkids. He will never catch up with Norm Haller (15).
Jerry de la Cruz recently met with a '91 grad stationed at the Pentagon who is
going to set up a session where we can get briefed on AF planning. That will be
in the Pentagon in the near future. GJC Fries and Beckey had a nice trip out to
Idaho prior to the AF/Navy game. He recommends we all see America first.
George discussed tickets for next years AF/Navy game and in order for everyone
to sit together we will have to order the tickets through one person. George is
willing to take on that task. So don't order your tickets before you check with
GJC. More to follow as the date approaches. On the weekend of the game Les
Querry and Marty will again sponsor the Falcon Roost at their mountain top home.
More details will follow as that day approaches too. Bill Hockenberry is
recovering from the first cold of the winter but he was well enough to really
brag about the 50th reunion. No question that Cathe and he had a great time.
Les Querry also wanted me to remind you to be on the lookout for even more
pictures and clips from the reunion. He certainly did a tremendous job with the
book and the DVD. I am sure that like me you marveled at his greaat work. Al
Johnson also extolled the effort expended in making the reunion book. His
thanks to all of you who worked on it. Al & Gale will be going back to
their summer home in Maine in the next few weeks. If any of you are looking for
a home in the DC area he will put his Mount Vernon home on market in just a few
weeks. Al reminded us all that the mini-ski and the Johnson Ski School will
open on the 19th of February. Ken Alnwick took on the new computer books. He
said the best bet is still the public library. Leon Goodson took him on and
says KINDLE is the only way to go. So go figure. Leon has made a few cross
country trips. He rode the motor cycle out to Seattle to see his twin grand
babies. He also drove down to Texas and viewed an RAF Air Museum on the base
where British pilots trained prior to WW II. At Christmas he was back in
Seattle. Anne Carnegie's Mom has been very sick and recently passed away. This
caused Bill and Anne to delay their trip to Gautemala where they will visit
with their son. They will now leave in a few more days. Bill is doing good
health wise. He will need a another scan in a few months to be sure the
lymphoma cancer is still benign. Bob Badger sounds like he is thinking of a new
book, "Plunging Toward Death". That comment lead to further discussion on
health care/lawyers/and law suites. We got a good review on health care in
Hawaii. Lil Badger is still having a few stomach problems but they are coping.
Norm Haller also bragged on the reunion. He told us that the AFA baseball team
had a nice reunion the week before our bash. He got to put the old uniform on and took a few swats. Could not
hit the ball out of the park though. Also told us that John Kuenzel tried to
give the USAFA football coach a copy of the play book from his varsity days but
time did not allow it to happen. Maybe next year. Ralph Lalime had son, Jay,
and his family with them for the Christmas Holiday. They will soon head back to
California and pack up their LA home to relocate here on the East Coast. That
is a story in the making since Ralph and Darlene will probably go out there to
help them move. His other son and his bride are getting ready for a honeymoon
trip to Tierra Del Fuego and other parts of South America. Oh to be young and
adventurous, Mike Clarke is really doing well and is back to work full time.
You guessed it the work deals with AF projects and where the force is headed.
He and Nancy wer out in Los Angeles for the New Year where Nancy was judge at
the Rose Parade. Nancy stays very busy with her many projects to include her
latest book. I finished up the session by telling everyone that the back gets
no better. It is painful and I seem to be getting more unsteady. I need two
canes or two of Jock Schwanks ski poles just to walk. I just know like , Mike
Clarke, no more operations.
That was the day. The snow started as we were leaving. Hope GJC gets home
before it gets too bad.
Oh, for those of you who could not make it. This was a free lunch!!!!!!
We enjoyed it.
TONY***
NULLI SECUNDUS
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9 July 2010
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DC '60 et.al.
Needless to say this was one of the best luncheons. Especially to be able
to listen to each of us telling about that first day at the Academy. I have it
all on tape and will forward the tape to you Andi in the next few days. It will
be interesting to see how you use this historical information!!!!!!
Twelve of the DC '60 group were able to attend. Ken Alnwick was a no show,
but we saved his seat til the end. Al Johnson never responded. Where are you
Al??? Nobody knew how to contact you. Mike Loh was out in Colorado pinning a
star on his son's shoulders. Mike Jr. is with the CO ANG. Higgins, Req,
Goodyear, Hales and Fischer just could not make it.
Mike Clarke was able to attend thanks to the Haller taxi service. He is
doing well. His vision is slowly returning and he is working with the VA visual
experts to get him ready to get back to work. One knee is not doing so good but
he is not up to having it operated on after the trouble he had with the first
one. Cannot say I blame him. I am not doing too well and right now would "
not" have another operation. I am very unsteady and need two canes or two of
Jock Schwank sticks to get around. time will have to be the healer.
Incidentally Mike's wife Nancy is publishing her book on thirty years of
working in the White House. That should be a best seller. Norm Haller had some
great news as he just returned from Annapolis, yes the US Naval Academy, where
his grandson entered with the new class of Midshipmen. Ralph Lalime's
daughter-in-law is an analyst at Navy Station Fallon. Same job as Kelly
Mcgillis had in the movie TOP GUN. She even got to fly in the F-16. Ralph has
a new used motor home we can use for the next USAFA/Navy game at
Annapolis.
Norm Haller and Liz just celebrated their 50th wedding reunion as did Jerry
and Betty de la Cruz. The Hallers have 15 grand children so that must be the
class record. Leon Goodson was at the graduation of the Class of 2010 USAFA.
He could not say enough good things about being able to hand new Lieutenant
bars to two squadrons of cadet grads. There was no doubt in Leon's mind that
the class of '60 did a good thing in sponsoring that event. Leon's son and his
wife just had twins. He still has a long way to go to catch the Haller's or the
Burke's. Bob Badger says there is a glimmer of hope that his book will get
published. He meets with a publishing agent next week. Bill Carnegie has been
given a clean bill of health from his cancer doctors. His hair has grown back
and he has a flat top like we all had 54 years ago. Looks great, Bill!!!!
Les Querry gave a great run down on the reunion plans, the 50 year book
status, and the state of the DVD he is preparing for the reunion. He also
enthralled us all with a super collection of pictures of our first day at Lowry
II. Les also said he is planning another festival at his mountain retreat the
4th weekend in Oct. Either the 23rd or the 24th. More to follow on that. Bill
Hockenberry warned me that this e-mail has been picked up by some tell all
sight. I hope I have not said anything that might embarass any of you. GJC
Fries wants to know who may be headed to West Point this fall to see the AF/Army
game. If you are going let him know.
Rosie, Ralph Lalime, Bob Badger and George Fries went to the Miss America
contest in 1959. they will contact you with the details. Tom Burke had to
leave early to get back to work so no new update other than his son had another
baby a few months ago. Is that 13 now, Tom? By the way, thanks again for
sponsoring our group at your Golf Club. A great place for our luncheons. Since
we have the reunion and than Les's gathering at the ROOST we probably won"t get
together at the club until January.
Again a great luncheon. You all have a good time at the reunion.
TONY***
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1 April 2010
Our guest was Ben Furuta.
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DC '60 et.al. Another great luncheon to celebrate the anniversary of the President's signing of the papers that created the USAFA. I thought that was done in 1954, but the AOG says it was 1955. Any comments? Falling so close to Easter we had quite a few guys celebrating the holiday away from Virginia. Ralph and Darlene Lalime are at their favorite resort area on Sanibel Island, Florida, tanning and biking. He is also trying to repair that ancient motor home. Bob and Lutzi Fischer were also in Florida spending some time with Rosie and Karen Cler. Lutzi, Ben remembers your having your leg on his chest at the 45th reunion, but cannot remember what that was all about. Mike Loh is recovering from an abdominal hernia and left early for the AOG Founders Day Dinner at which he will receive the Distinguished Grad Award. Congrats again, Mike. We reviewed your articles from the Defense News and the AF Magazine, Mike. Two great pieces of writing. Bob Odenweller was busy getting his stamp and book awards. Al Johnson decide to vacation in Maine so he headed North to get out of the VA cold weather. George Fries was out in California to get warmed up. Bill Goodyear and Bill Hales decided to stay down South this time around. A bit of sad news: Joe Higgins's mother -in-law was under the weather so he and Sue had to stay home. Leon Goodson's Mom just passed away, so he and Maryn are enroute to Oklahoma for the services. The Goodson's had just come back from Washington state where they celebrated the birth of twin grandchildren, Isaac and Pippa. We were delighted that Ben Furuta was able to join us for today's luncheon. He is in town to celebrate the birth of his grandson. Ben told us about his life in the LA area after leaving the Air Force in the sixties. This was followed by a bunch of Ben stories from the rest of the guys. Too many to relate. Ben's wife is from Japan so she had a double delight in not only seeing the new grandson but enjoying the Cherry Blossom Festival in DC which happens this weekend. The blossoms are gorgeous and the weekend will be warm and sunny. Ralph Lalime and family celebrated the marriage of son Chris to a lovely lady, Robyn, back in late January. Mike Clarke was able to make it to the luncheon with Norm Haller's help. Mike is doing OK. His vision is still impaired and the VA is helping him obtain some devices and provide vision classes that will allow him to see better. He also told us that his lovely wife, Nancy, will be one of the judges for the floral displays at next years Tournament of Roses. Naturally Mike will join her out there in California. He says he is about 80% back to normal and may be able to return to work by June. Bill Carnegie is doing well recovering from his non-hodgkins lymphoma. He should have a doctors report in a few days and will send us an update. Then he does battle with the VA. Meanwhile Ken Alnwick encourages all of us who may have an illness that can be traced back to Viet Nam to petition the VA for some tax relief. In the end it should be financially worth the effort. I have been trading letters with them for almost nine months and still no relief. Ken is working on a project that requires people to make a prediction on what will be happening in the world by 2025 +. The guys came up with some wild predictions. Perhaps one of these days Ken will write up the results of his survey and share them with us. Bill and Kitty Taylor will soon be heading South to Dallas for what may be a final move into retirement. He will still work for Rand there in Dallas at least for a while. The Badgers are doing fine and Bob's book is done but he still needs a literary agent. Meanwhile he is still writing another book. Les Querry filled us in on the Joe Yeager (former ATO) story. He also had just talked to Ace Holman. The Ace had a relapse but is doing OK for the time being. Les is also in touch with Steve Holt. Does anyone remember him? Les also complimented Jim Glaza on all the work Jim is doing on the 50th Year Book. We must also acknowledge all the work Les is doing to get all the photos put together and ready as an addition to the book. We will soon see the results of his labor. Bill Hockenberry says that life is good!!!!! He works as an arbitrator for folks dealing with labor and the economy. If you need more info give Bill a call or send him an e-mail. Jerry de la Cruz gave a rundown on events at the Al Johnson Ski School this winter. Over 30 grads and family members were there. He would not divulge who won the ski award and will leave that to Andi at the reunion. Norm Haller had nothing new going on at his country estate but is still heavily involved with the National Academy and Randolph Macon. Finally Tom Burke, our gracious host, announced the birth of his twelfth grandchild. He may catch Haller one of these days. Tom is President/CEO of AVMAK inc. He loves the challenge but just might have to take the company into bankruptcy. Call him if you want details. So with that we concluded another great luncheon. Our next get together is up in the air. i would opt for a 9 July luncheon to celebrate the 54th anniversary of our entry into the Academy. However, many of you might have summer plans. Besides there will be the big reunion at USAFA to think about. I take it just about everybody is going there. Whatever, let me know in the next few weeks if you want the July get together. Again great to see all of you. TONY*** NULLI SECUNDUS |
12 Jan. 2010
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DC '60 et.al. Well, it was cold and windy here in Northern VA but a perfect time for our year opening luncheon. This one was special since it was also the 73rd anniversary of my birth. The guys were most generous in not only singing Happy Birthday to me but with a little coaxing agreed to pay for my lunch. We had 15 classmates there. Tom Burke and Bill Taylor had to work. It was a bit too far Bill Goodyear, Joe Higgins, Bill Hodson and Bill Hales to make a winter trip. Bob Odenweller wanted to come but he is recovering from laser retinal surgery probably caused by his fall earlier this year. Bob is also retiring after 40 years from his position as Governor of the Collectors Club. Congratulations, Bob. Bill Carnegie gave us a rundown on his medical problems. He was discovered with lymphoma earlier this year and is undergoing chemo therapy. He has had four treatments and has two more to go. A recent CT scan looked good so he may have won the battle. Bill feels good but tires very easily and of course the chemo treatments fatigue him. Mike Clarke was able to come and appears to be doing very well in that he no longer needs a walker or canes to move about. His knee has healed and is giving him no further problems. His one issue yet is his vision and that will take some time. Things still are dark to him which keeps him from reading unless the fonts are humongus. GJC Fries seems pretty much recovered from his shoulder replacement. He is getting along well and has a full travel schedule for the next few months here in the USA. Ralph Lalime has his hands full preparing for the wedding of his oldest son, Chris, which will take place on the 23rd of Jan. He is also planning to attend the mini ski in Feb. Ken Alnwick is still coaching lacross and doing work with the Naval Ops Research outfit. Bob Fischer underwent a stress test and the docs found a blockage which had no physical indicators. So the docs have him on medication and he is strenuously working out to keep the blockage from causing any damage. Bob Badger is in great shape and says his wife, Liliane, seems to have overcome some of the problems she was having with her digestive system. Norm Haller is always in great shape and still working for the National Academy of Science and the National Science Foundation. He also keeps an eye on the Randolph Macon Academy and is still trying to get it affiliated with the USAFA. Al Johnson had laproscopic surgery for a double hernia. He is doing well. He is trying to sell his Virginia home and will soon travel to Florida to see if there is a place he and Gale like for a winter home to compliment his Maine summer home. Part of the Florida trip will include visits with our many classmates who now make Florida home. Les Querry has been snowed in on his hill top home with all the snow and wind VA has recently had. He mentioned our great web site and encouraged us all to visit it every few days. The 50th yearbook is coming along and he is putting together a DVD which can incorporate voice. So if you would like to leave a voice message to our classmates give Les a call. Leon and Maryn are well. His son and daughter-in-law are expecting twins in the near future. Leon will be going out to USAFA to swear in a friends daughter who will graduate with the Class of 2010. The Goodsons also had a fantastic trip recently to Israel with their church group. He said the Jewish nation is a real eye opener and has a long way to go to insure peace in that part of the world. Jerry de la Cruz was happy to tell us that Betty's operation for a thyroid problem went well and she is recovering in fine fashion. Jerry will be going to mini ski with Ralph, GJC and Al. Bill Hockenberry is working full time since arbitration seems to be the name of the game. He now has six grandchildren who are all doing well. Mike Loh's son is a commander with the Colorado National Guard and in his spare time flies the Boeing 777 for United Air Lines. Mike is still campaigning to improve our Air Force. He feels the leaders are making too many excuses and not bragging on the many capabilities we have and the job the AF does in the war zones. Mike also is after the AF hierarchy to improve our buying policies. He is also working on the nuclear arsenal and the nuclear delivery systems. All I can say is we are lucky to have a knowledgeable guy like Mike taking the message to the CSAF. Well that pretty much sums it up for todays get together. Tom Burke, give me a call when you get home and we can settle the bill for the lunch. Our plan is to have the next luncheon on the 1st of April which is the day we celebrate Founders Day. I will send out a message in March to remind you all. Enjoy the cold. TONY*** |
9 July 2009
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DC '60 et.al.
Needless to say this was one of the best luncheons. Especially to be able
to listen to each of us telling about that first day at the Academy. I have it
all on tape and will forward the tape to you Andi in the next few days. It will
be interesting to see how you use this historical information!!!!!!
Twelve of the DC '60 group were able to attend. Ken Alnwick was a no show,
but we saved his seat til the end. Al Johnson never responded. Where are you
Al??? Nobody knew how to contact you. Mike Loh was out in Colorado pinning a
star on his son's shoulders. Mike Jr. is with the CO ANG. Higgins, Req,
Goodyear, Hales and Fischer just could not make it.
Mike Clarke was able to attend thanks to the Haller taxi service. He is
doing well. His vision is slowly returning and he is working with the VA visual
experts to get him ready to get back to work. One knee is not doing so good but
he is not up to having it operated on after the trouble he had with the first
one. Cannot say I blame him. I am not doing too well and right now would "
not" have another operation. I am very unsteady and need two canes or two of
Jock Schwank sticks to get around. time will have to be the healer.
Incidentally Mike's wife Nancy is publishing her book on thirty years of
working in the White House. That should be a best seller. Norm Haller had some
great news as he just returned from Annapolis, yes the US Naval Academy, where
his grandson entered with the new class of Midshipmen. Ralph Lalime's
daughter-in-law is an analyst at Navy Station Fallon. Same job as Kelly
Mcgillis had in the movie TOP GUN. She even got to fly in the F-16. Ralph has
a new used motor home we can use for the next USAFA/Navy game at
Annapolis.
Norm Haller and Liz just celebrated their 50th wedding reunion as did Jerry
and Betty de la Cruz. The Hallers have 15 grand children so that must be the
class record. Leon Goodson was at the graduation of the Class of 2010 USAFA.
He could not say enough good things about being able to hand new Lieutenant
bars to two squadrons of cadet grads. There was no doubt in Leon's mind that
the class of '60 did a good thing in sponsoring that event. Leon's son and his
wife just had twins. He still has a long way to go to catch the Haller's or the
Burke's. Bob Badger says there is a glimmer of hope that his book will get
published. He meets with a publishing agent next week. Bill Carnegie has been
given a clean bill of health from his cancer doctors. His hair has grown back
and he has a flat top like we all had 54 years ago. Looks great, Bill!!!!
Les Querry gave a great run down on the reunion plans, the 50 year book
status, and the state of the DVD he is preparing for the reunion. He also
enthralled us all with a super collection of pictures of our first day at Lowry
II. Les also said he is planning another festival at his mountain retreat the
4th weekend in Oct. Either the 23rd or the 24th. More to follow on that. Bill
Hockenberry warned me that this e-mail has been picked up by some tell all
sight. I hope I have not said anything that might embarass any of you. GJC
Fries wants to know who may be headed to West Point this fall to see the AF/Army
game. If you are going let him know.
Rosie, Ralph Lalime, Bob Badger and George Fries went to the Miss America
contest in 1959. they will contact you with the details. Tom Burke had to
leave early to get back to work so no new update other than his son had another
baby a few months ago. Is that 13 now, Tom? By the way, thanks again for
sponsoring our group at your Golf Club. A great place for our luncheons. Since
we have the reunion and than Les's gathering at the ROOST we probably won"t get
together at the club until January.
Again a great luncheon. You all have a good time at the reunion.
TONY***
NULLI SECUNDUS
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1 April 2009
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DC '60 et.al.
Well it was just another great luncheon with 16 of our classmates present for good food and some wonderful war stories. ABSENTEES Bill Goodyear had to regret since he and Linda had a previous trip to Montgomery, AL planned. Bob Fischer and Lucie were down in Fort Walton Beach to relive a few memories of Bob's training for Viet Nam. Ralph and Darlene Lalime were enjoying a few weeks in Sanabel, FL. Then there is Bob Odenweller. He took over as person of the month from Nancy Clarke. Bob just returned from Cleveland where he was presented with the Distinguished Philatelist Award from the US Philatelic Society. That is there highest award. Bob was also recently in Europe for other Philatelic awards and to talk about his award winning best seller Stamp Book. He also had to host other Europeans who came to NJ to talk about his book. So he was excused. By the way Nancy Clarke will end her thirty year career at the White House since she will retire on the 31st of May. Hales. Head, Holman, Hodson and Doug Req are just too far away for the short visit. A few guys, headed up by GJC Fries, remembered that the
decision to put the Academy in Colorado Springs was made in the Officers Barber
Shop in the DVQ at Scott AFB. Charles
Lindberg, Gen Spaatz, and Mr. Hancher, the President of U of Iowa were there for
a trim after visiting the proposed site in Alton, Il. They told Leo the Barber about their visit
and then told him they were turned off by officials in Alton and that the
Academy would be built in Colorado Springs.
I saw the picture of C. Lindberg in the chair, surrounded by the other
two and Leo. Unfortunately Leo would
not give me the picture and years later after his demise it just
disappeared. So now you know the rest
of the story. Just as an aside the
USAFA Library could not verify my story.
Andi, I talked to the guys about those issues you
mentioned. The consensus was that if a
grad invites any of the former wives they should be allowed to come. The verdict on Libby Evans was mixed so you
get to make that final decision. I
would be interested in what Hardy Jr. has to say. I still have not talked to Don Wolfswinkle,
but Carol has lots of friends. Good
Luck!!!!! THE GUYS WERE TOLD TO
CONTACT YOU WITH ANY OTHER INFO.
Ken Alnwick gave us some good info on the VA and how
they are willing to work with us old vets to get well deserved benefits. It would pay to visit the VA if you are
getting disability compensation. Ken
is still working with the Naval Research folks and helping with high school
lacrosse. He is also helping Norm Haller work on the AF Library at the Randolph
Macon Academy in Front Royal, VA. If
you have AF memorabilia you would like to see preserved get in touch with
Norm. Joe Higgins is looking to sell
his condo in Charlottesville, VA. Any
one interested? Once it sells he and
Sue will figure out where to move.
Bill Carnegie is enjoying his brand new home in Shenandoah, VA. He just returned from visiting his son and
grandkids in Guatemala. Bill Taylor is
working his fanny off trying to help the AF decide on how much time to devote to
flying sorties and how much time to spend in the simulators. Young AF pilots average just over four
sorties a month. Not much!!! Bill's son has just been made a Maintenance
Group Commander with the AZNG. Bob
Badger had nothing but praise for Bob Odenweller and all the help Bob has given
him to finish his novel. Bob's book
may be published by the end of the year.
Mike Loh gave us a rundown on how well the grandson was doing in hockey
and hopefully will be selected for USAFA
and some real hockey. Mike also
told us what a great job the Academy hockey team did this year. Most people do not talk about that team
when football is king. Al Johnson put
his local house on sale on 1 April and is serious about moving to Maine. The mini ski and the Johnson Ski School
held its 19th reunion this year. Lots
of photos on the Class of '60 web site.
The marginally magnificent award went to Gene Vosika this year. Al might have won it but he fell on his ski
pole and damaged some ribs. Tough
getting old, Al. Jerry de la Cruz
wowed everyone again with his skiing talent.
Jerry was also presented with an award from the National Gallery of Art
today for ten years of dedicated service to the Gallery. Les Querry wants us to put 4 October on the
calendar for the fall Falcon Roost.
That is the day after the AF/Navy game. Tell any visitors that they are invited
too. Bill Hockenberry is very busy,
despite the economic issues, advising on plant closings, union issues and
business in general. George Fries
stays busy helping MOAA with ROTC at two colleges and Jr. ROTC at 11 high
schools. Leon Goodson lives the good
life, working when he wants and riding his motorcycle when he wants. This summer will bring a European vacation
with his grandkids.
Thanks again to Tom Burke for setting up the club for
us. It is a great place for a
luncheon. Tom has already scheduled
the club for our next luncheon on 9 July. In case you forgot that is the 53
anniversary of the day we entered the Academy.
The date has also been set for my operation, 20
May. More to follow.
TONY***
NULLI SECUNDUS |
January 13, 2009
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Well, as always it was a great luncheon. Unfortunately only 12 of the
stalwarts were able to make it. Sorry for those who could not make it
since this was also one of my unannounced free luncheons. The half priced
hamburgers, which were delicious, helped keep the cost down and allowed for
the free lunch. those who missed will have to wait another
year!!!!!!!!!. This time it was the "H" Brothers that did not show: Higgins, Hales, Head, Hodson, Holman and Haller. Joe got sick at the last moment and Norm had to teach school. It was too far for the others for a Jan. trip. Mike Clarke had business in California. Odenweller had an opera to go to, Bill Goodyear's wife, Linda, is having back problems and he had to take her to the Tampa Spine Center for treatment. Bill Taylor had hoped to stop by but he had to attend a rated requirements meeting with the AF/A30 group headed by MG Hoot Gibson. Bill recently went to Arizona to welcome his son back from a tour in Iraq where he was flying the F-16 ATARS with the Guard. Tony Billelo was just here so this was another too far to come for a winter meeting. Doug Req always tries but Iowa is a bit far too. Rosie, nobody in the group has yet been to the US Capitol Visitors Center but whoever goes first will send you an update on the place. Andi we discussed the year book and the guys you mentioned will work at getting their inputs in ASAP. Norm, Ken Alnwick did a great job explaining the new AF library they will be working on for Randolph Macon. At the next meeting he will try to define exactly what you will need and then the rest of us will see if we can make a contribution. I recently took still another MRI and am waiting for a meeting on Feb 17 with the neuro surgeon to see what is next. The neurologist who set up the MRI told me the MRI shows quite a bit of blockage in the lower lumbar area that will probably need another operation. The decision will be made after the 17 Feb meeting. Jerry de la Cruz is ready for the Al Johnson ski school next month and has been wearing his weight losing hat to get in shape. Ralph Lalime and his boys will be joining the group. Ken Alnwick is working with the Navy on some under sea surveillance stuff, still works with the lacrosse crowd and is helping Norm with his RM Library project. GJC Fries will be going back to work at the Busch Gardens this spring. He gave us a swell rundown on how those parks work. Bill Hockenberry is staying very busy resolving disputes between companies, unions and the banks. Les Querry gave us an update on the class web site and is still asking for pictures for the BOOK. If you have not sent him photos please go through your albums and get them to him. Al Johnson may soon put his Virginia house up for sale. His home in Maine is finished, ready for visitors, and you are all welcome. He still wants to find a warm weather port. Maybe Florida. Bob Fischer recently welcomed his sixth grandchild. He joins Ralph and me with under one year grandkids. How about the rest of you? Bill Carnegie's new house here in Virginia is finished and he and his wife are in the process of moving in. Bob Badger advised us that he had a note from Derry Adamson's wife and Derry is suffering from Alzheimer's. Take time and drop Derry a note. The Lalimes just got back from a visit to California where they welcomed their new granddaughter, Ryley. Mom and baby are doing well. Leon Goodson is working 70% of the time. When not working or riding his new Suzuki 168 horsepower, 368 pound bike he goes to visit the grand kids in Tennessee and Seattle. Finally, our host Tom Burke was called away at the last minute and he was in Boston. Al Johnson, Carnegie, Badger, Lalime and I stayed on at the Club and had a few drinks on Tom to celebrate his having to work on the luncheon day. Thanks Tom. One last note. Mike Loh was AWOL. He signed up to come and we had ordered him a hamburger but he was a no show. Hope all is well down your place, Mike. Finally we decided that the next luncheon will be held on the first of April, which is Academy Founders Day Anniversary. Please put that date on you long range calendar. I will get a note off to you in late March and ask for an RSVP at that time. Enjoy the rest of the winter. TONY*** NULLI SECUNDUS |
Luncheon, July 9, 2008
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DC '60 et.al. Well, guys we missed you and you all missed one of our
best luncheons. |
Luncheon, April 1, 2008
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DC '60 et.al Well it was another great luncheon get together of the DC '60 stalwarts. We had 14 in attendance telling lots of good war stories. First off the guys who could not make it. Dick Head let us know that Carol had a successful operation and is doing well. They are enjoying racing sailboats down in San Diego. Bob Odenweller's mom just passed away and was buried Monday next to her husband at West Point. Bob is still very business with speaking engagements in the UK and the US about his stamp collecting. He is also busy with his stamp books and various magazine articles. Doug Rekenthaler was down at Hilton Head testing a new w. band radar on a Gulf Stream. Mike Loh was off to Dallas on a business trip. Goodyear was tied up down South. Norm Haller was getting ready for a trip to SOCOM at McDill AFB for the National Academy of Science. Mike Clarke is on the same trip but managed to get to the luncheon. Ralph Lalime is vacationing at Sanibel Island in Florida. He should be back in VA in a few weeks. The Hodsons were vacationing down in NM. They may get back to DC for a visit later in the summer. Little far for Bill Hales to come but he too may be up this summer. Joe Higgins was headed this way but woke up with a bad tooth ache and was headed for the dentist's office instead. Joe wanted us to know that he is getting a pretty good response for the 50th year book. Some of you still need to provide Joe with the money, bio's and pictures. We passed the first deadline of 31 March so we need the rest of you to get those items to Joe. Al Johnson and Jerry De la Cruz brought us up to date on the mini ski. Sounds like they had a great time. Pictures of that event are on the Class of "60 web site. Check them out. Rosie and Les Querry did a super job putting all the photos on line. Al Johnson's new home in Camden, Maine is coming along really well, almost finished. Al will probably still spend time here and up in Maine. Bill Taylor is still helping the AF solve all their Tactical Air problems. The key word is that we need more money. Bill Carnegie is contemplating leaving NJ and taking up residence here in VA just outside of Front Royal. Bill told us he now has two 300 games in his favorite past time bowling. His daughter will become the new Director of the Simpson's TV show. Bob Badger has finished his book (only took four years) and is now looking for a publisher. He is starting on book number two. The books are fictional but Bob says we may recognize some of the characters who have a little resemblance to some of us in '60. Mike Clarke also echoed Bill Taylor's words that the AF is in a world of hurt. But he is working the problem at the National Academy. Ken Alnwick is still working with the Navy on Maritime Domain Awareness. The Navy insists on trying to know where every ship is and what it is doing. Just like the AF is trying to do with all its planes and everybody else's. When he is not doing that he still coaches lacrosse. Tom Burke had the misfortune of losing his brother, John, a few weeks ago. Tom is still working on AF issues and the problems of the aviation industry. Leon is working when ever he feels like it, but it is still a couple of days each week. He is soon going to vacation a bit in Tennessee and Seattle. And yes he still rides the motor cycle. GJC Fries is recovering quite well from the hip surgery. He is now the proud grandpa of 11grand kids. He has a daughter getting married in Saturday and will spend some time in Hawaii in May. Bill Hockenberry's wife had the misfortune of breaking her leg and will be in a cast for some time to come. We are happy that Bill has found us and is enjoying the DC '60 group. Bob Fisher and Lutzi will be heading on a cruise of the Caribbean this summer. He also told us he had a nice conversation with Charlie Sands. Now there was a name out of the past. Les Querry gave us a good run down of all the improvements to the Class web site. Again he and Rosie are doing a super job with it. On his latest trip down south he did see Hales and Goodyear. He also told us Jim O'Rourke checked in so we found another lost soul. You can see we had a lot to talk about. Oh, just a quick update on me. I get no better and still have a hard time getting around even with a cane. I guess I should go buy a walker. In an attempt to see if I can be fixed I spent time with a vascular surgeon last week and meet with a cardiologist next week and then with my neurologist. He will give me another BOTOX treatment and will probably send me for another MRI since it appears the stenosis is coming back with a vengeance. Like they say getting old is not for sissies. We have decided that July 9th will be a good time for the next luncheon at the Country Club. Then Les told us he will host another Falcon Roost at his home on the 18th of October. So put those two dates on your calendars and we will hope to see you all there. Enjoy the summer. NULLI SECUNDUS TONY*** |
Luncheon, January 15, 2008
L to R: Bill Hockenberry (USAFA '60 classmate our first year), Higgins, Querry, Lalime, Badger, Burke, Clarke, Fischer, Burshnick, Loh, Goodson, Taylor, Fries, de le Cruz
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Wed 7/11/07 9:08 AM Subject: Luncheon DC '60 et.al. Another great luncheon for the DC '60 at the Springfield Country Club. Sorry more of u could not have attended but summer is a busy time. Jerry de la Cruz and Bill goodyear were tied up with the grandchildren, Ken Alnwick was at his summer home in Florida, Al Johnson was at his winter home in Maine, A bit far for Bill Hales to come, Doug Req just had his hip replaced and had to work the farm out in Iowa, Bob Odenweller had business committments as did Bill Carnegie. RG Head is now a native of California and Bob Fischer was just AWOL. It was still a lively luncheon: Mike Loh expressed his pleasure with the new AOG Board and I took the other side. Don't think we solved anything. Mike is adamant about using the new Zoomie Nation web sight as a communications link. I would like to give our new Ace Holman web sight a chance. This too remained an open issue. Maybe at the next get together we can reach an agreement. Tom Burke was a marshall at the recent Tiger Woods/AT&T golf tournament here in Washington. He gave us a great rundown on the tournament, the players, and the chances that the tournament will continue in the years to follow. Ralph Lalime told us how we got the motto Nulli Secundus. Seems the first try was Nulus Secundus which meant second to nothing according to the Latin experts. Anyway Ralph straightened them out so that we have our proper motto. Ralph and I were also on the NBC Channel 4 News last week. We were enjoying Starbucks and a cigar when the reporter and cameraman came up and asked if we would care to comment on the recently passed Virginia law that levees additional fines for gross traffic offenses: drunk driving, excessive speed etc. I took the airlifter approach and said "Hang Them". Ralph took the fighter pilot approach and said "Give Them a Second Chance" It made for good commentary on the 5 and 6 o'clock news. Tom Burke just had his tenth grandchild. Haller leads with 15. GJC Fries's youngest daughter will be married in April. George will then look for a retirement home. Leon Goodson enjoyed a trip to Oklahoma to watch his grandaughters reap a bunch of prizes and awards. He has a new super motor bike and continues to challenge the local traffic. Les Querry has set aside the 27th of October for another Falcon Roosting at his mountain top home. Put it on you calenders and if you have classmates in town invite them to come. Les still needs your pictures, slides and old tapes to prepare a super DVD for the fiftieth. Bill Taylor has recovered from his hip surgeries. He is still deeply involved in trying to help the Air Force absorb all its new pilots and determine who will fly the UAV's. Ralph Lalimes son just completed a solo kayak trip down the Potomac River, quite a feat. Norm Haller has an additinal job of dog catcher, almost missed the luncheon! He and Liz will soon head out to CO for Liz's 50th high school reunion. He also enjoyed a nice visit with John Kuenzel and discussed the financial management career field. Mike Clarke continues to run the Air Force Board at the National Academy of Science. He says he will never retire. His wife Nancy is completing her 27th year as the Chief Floral Designer for the White House. If Hillary wins the presidency she will never let Nancy retire. Mike will probably ending up working for his buddy BILL!!!!!!! Well that is the latest from the 51st Anniversary Luncheon. If I have left anything out feel free to make ammendments and additions. We have not set a date for another luncheon since we have the AF/Navy game in Sept and Les's event in October. See you there. TONY*** |
11 July 2007
1 April 2005
6 December 2005
July 2004
31 March 2004
1 April 2003
December 2003
20 December 2002
July 2001
April 2001
January 2001
Other Gatherings
AFA-Navy Game 2003
AFA-Navy Game 2001
At The HALLERS
10 April 1999
