HERE.
J.T. Smith,
Class News Editor
Ken Alnwick,
USAFA '60 Scribe
This page shows news for the current quarter only.
For previous news, please visit the Class News Archives HERE.
To ensure you're viewing the lastest information, reload this page
[Control+Shift+R in Windows / Command+Shift+R in Mac/iOS]
Earl "Van" Van Inwegen passed away on 14 july 2025.
No other information is currently available. As information is received, it will be posted here.
"Gentlemen of the Class of 1960, this message from Max [Miller ('59)] beautifully encapsulates our Air Force origin and history. While often denied, our two classes are inextricably joined at the hip, sharing virtually identical experiences. Kudos to all of our classmates for their lifelong dedication and recognition of our origins. Hope to see you for our 65th reunion 17-21 September. NULLI SECUNDUS!"
"Friday, 11 July 1955, Lt. General Hubert Harmon, Colonel Robert "Moose" Stillman, Colonel "Bent Wing" Ben Cassidy, Captain Bill Yancey, Lieutenant Jerry O'Malley and numerous other dedicated Officers, NCO's, Airmen, DoD Civilians, Contractors and others welcomed our Class of 1959 to the birth of the USAF Academy. Those 306 of us enjoyed the stroke of good fortune to inaugurate this national treasure. Let's remember, ..."
Seventy years have soared on by,
Since bold young hearts first reached the sky—
When Class of ’59 first came
To write their place in freedom’s name.
No towers stood, no chapel spire,
Just grit and will and burning fire.
In borrowed halls, their dreams took flight,
Cadets who trained by day and night.
The blue they wore, a symbol true,
Of skies they’d one day journey through.
With honor bound and courage high,
They learned to lead, to fight, to fly.
From Denver's start to Falcon’s nest,
They built a home with all their best.
Steel and stone, then soul and pride—
They stood with country side by side.
And year by year, the legions came,
With stars in eyes and duty's flame.
They climbed the Hill, they faced the call,
To serve with strength and give their all.
The Chapel rose with spires of grace,
A beacon for the human race.
Its windows cast red, white, and blue—
A holy light for what they do.
From ancient foes to modern threats,
Their vow remains: “we won’t forget.”
Each war they’ve fought, each peace they’ve kept,
With silent watch while others slept.
Now seventy years have passed in flight,
Their legacy still bold and bright.
New cadets march where others stood,
Still guided by the greater good.
So raise the flag and lift your gaze,
To honor those who’ve paved the way.
Air Force Academy, proud and free—
Here’s to your noble legacy.
Jim Waddle passed away on 15 June 2025.
Jim's service will be at the USAFA Cemetery at 1100, on Wednesday, 9 July, in the Memorial Pavilion; a graveside service will follow. A reception at the Eisenhower Golf Course clubhouse is probable--will advise when confirmed.
No other information is currently available. As information is received, it will be posted here.
Liliane Badger reports that Bob passed away on 31 Jan 2025.
All services were private.
Condolences may be left at the funeral home website HERE.
"Dale Thompson passed away on 23 May 2025. He will be buried at USAFA on 26 June at 1000 hours. Reception to follow."
As other information becomes available, it will be posted here.