Army vs USAFA Joint Watch Party 2023
Air Force played host to Army at Empower Stadium in Denver on the fields of friendly strife. The game didn't go well for Air Force... but we had a good gathering of USAFA and West Point grads at Buffalo Brothers and a good time was had by all.
Durham Bulls with Cadets from SJAFB Ops Air Force
For our July, 2023 meeting, we invited cadets on Ops Air Force at SJAFB to join us for a Durham Bulls game. We met at Tobacco Road Sports Cafe (on their Terrace) and had a great evening with USAFA camaraderie. The weather was perfect with a downpour to end the game in the ninth inning (Bulls lost) and clearing up just in time for fireworks.
2022 Battle of the Boot Golf Tournament
On November 14th, 2022 in the afternoon until sunset, five USAFA grads and a whole lot of USNA & USMA grads got together on the fairways of friendly strife. We did not win the boot (good job, Navy) but we had great camaraderie with our brothers in arms (no sisters that day).
2022 USAFA vs Army Football Game
We couldn't get Army grads to join us for a joint watch party... but it's probably for the best. We had way too much fun!
2020 Virtual March Back from Jack's Valley
Recent tradition has seen grads invited back to USAFA to participate in the march back from Jack's Valley with the new cadets. This year, due to COVID-19, there was no invitation. Instead, grads around the world were invited to march locally to join the cadets virtually. These are some photos of local grads who took a walk to honor the Long Blue Line.
2019 Tour of Seymour Johnson AFB
On December 19th, 2019, a group comprised of USAFA graduates, hopefuls, and a current cadet visited Seymour Johnson AFB at the invitation of Capt Joseph Bledsoe, III. We were given an unclassified briefing on recent operations, given hands on contact with equipment, walked around some static displays of aircraft and weaponry in the load barn, and then experienced the controls in VR and simulators. It was eye-opening to see the pace of operations and the professionalism of the force. We owe these men and women a debt that can't be paid... only lived under the protection they provide. I received a number of emails from participants grateful for the experience.
2019 Service Academy Challenge Golf Tournament
On the 30th of September, 16 USAFA grads entered the fields of friendly strife in amiable competition against the Naval and Military Academies. The USAFA team had a solid result coming in third. Army won fairly convincingly and Navy came in second to last. A good time was had by all.
Our team roster:
Chuck Latham and Pat Daley (lowest Gross Score overall!)
Check Kavcsak and Buck McCants
Marcus Cole and Robert Ewing
Robert Schnick and Daniel Williams
Mitch Packet and Patrick Yanke
Michael Hamel and Brian Binn
JD Freeman and Kyland Freeman
Jim Herrmann and Ron Marquette
Our team roster:
Chuck Latham and Pat Daley (lowest Gross Score overall!)
Check Kavcsak and Buck McCants
Marcus Cole and Robert Ewing
Robert Schnick and Daniel Williams
Mitch Packet and Patrick Yanke
Michael Hamel and Brian Binn
JD Freeman and Kyland Freeman
Jim Herrmann and Ron Marquette
2019 Freedom Classic Dinner with the Superintendent
On February 24th, the Air Force Academy Society of NC hosted Lt Gen Jay Silveria, 20th Superintendent of the US Air Force Academy. He was in town for the Freedom Classic Baseball Tournament held annually in Kinston, NC. We met in a private space at Chef and the Farmer Restaurant where we enjoyed good food, good service, and good fellowship. We were joined by graduates, families of cadets through the Parents Clubs, and 4 FW/CC with his Command Chief from Seymour Johnson AFB. We also had two very special guests; Lt Gen Silveria brought a cadet to share his experiences and one young lady had just received her appointment!
Lt Gen Silveria told stories of cadet leadership, scholarship, and athleticism. Cadets have demonstrated excellence earning academic honors through Rhodes Scholarships, and competing on the fields of friendly strife up to 27 intercollegiate sports. The demographics have changed since women were first admitted to the Academy to where now the population is up to 30% women... and growing. The admissions standards are higher than ever and the successes of the cadets have risen to meet the challenge. Cadets hold seven patents in their own names with more pending. Businesses and government entities bring problems to the cadets and the cadets solve them.
The future continues looking bright with USAFA leading the way.
Lt Gen Silveria told stories of cadet leadership, scholarship, and athleticism. Cadets have demonstrated excellence earning academic honors through Rhodes Scholarships, and competing on the fields of friendly strife up to 27 intercollegiate sports. The demographics have changed since women were first admitted to the Academy to where now the population is up to 30% women... and growing. The admissions standards are higher than ever and the successes of the cadets have risen to meet the challenge. Cadets hold seven patents in their own names with more pending. Businesses and government entities bring problems to the cadets and the cadets solve them.
The future continues looking bright with USAFA leading the way.
2018 Founders Day Dinner
A future cadet, a parent, and grads with their families convened at Jimmy V's SteakHouse on April 21, 2018. I wish I could give you a good after-action on this with pictures and everything... but I wasn't able to attend. I was locked in battle with a very stubborn kidney stone.
We were very honored to have Lt Col Chance Henderson, Class of 1996 (cool story here!), as our speaker and guest of honor. He and his wife, Debbie, played host in my absence and all attendees expressed admiration for them. A good time was had by all celebrating an institution that has given us so much. Jimmy V's SteakHouse was awesome as always.
We were very honored to have Lt Col Chance Henderson, Class of 1996 (cool story here!), as our speaker and guest of honor. He and his wife, Debbie, played host in my absence and all attendees expressed admiration for them. A good time was had by all celebrating an institution that has given us so much. Jimmy V's SteakHouse was awesome as always.
USAFA Superintendent Visit
2018 Freedom Classic Baseball Tournament
On February 24th, the Air Force Academy Society of NC hosted Lt Gen Jay Silveria, 20th Superintendent of the US Air Force Academy, and Jim Knowlton, USAFA Athletic Director. They were in town for the Freedom Classic Baseball Tournament held annually in Kinston, NC. We met in a private space at Chef and the Farmer Restaurant where we enjoyed good food, good service, and good fellowship. We were joined by graduates, families of cadets through the Parents Clubs, and Col Christopher Sage, 4 FW/CC with his Command Chief, CMSgt Adams.
Lt Gen Silveria and Mr Knowlton told stories of cadet leadership, scholarship, and athleticism. Cadets have shown their mettle in providing aid to those in need, earning academic honors through Rhodes Scholarships, and competing on the fields of friendly strife up to 27 intercollegiate sports. The demographics have changed since women were first admitted to the Academy to where now the population is up to 30% women. The admissions standards are higher than ever and the successes of the cadets have risen to meet the challenge. Where Stanford University invests $4 million in research every year, USAFA invests $40 million. Cadets hold six patents in their own names with more pending. Businesses and government entities bring problems to the cadets and the cadets solve them.
"Flick" Guerrina, class of 1967, led the group in a few cheers from his days as a USAFA cheerleader. Everyone left excited to cheer on USAFA in their games vs Navy. Go Air Force!
The future is looking bright with USAFA leading the way.
Lt Gen Silveria and Mr Knowlton told stories of cadet leadership, scholarship, and athleticism. Cadets have shown their mettle in providing aid to those in need, earning academic honors through Rhodes Scholarships, and competing on the fields of friendly strife up to 27 intercollegiate sports. The demographics have changed since women were first admitted to the Academy to where now the population is up to 30% women. The admissions standards are higher than ever and the successes of the cadets have risen to meet the challenge. Where Stanford University invests $4 million in research every year, USAFA invests $40 million. Cadets hold six patents in their own names with more pending. Businesses and government entities bring problems to the cadets and the cadets solve them.
"Flick" Guerrina, class of 1967, led the group in a few cheers from his days as a USAFA cheerleader. Everyone left excited to cheer on USAFA in their games vs Navy. Go Air Force!
The future is looking bright with USAFA leading the way.
Army vs Air Force Football Game
Joint Watch Party
Since USAFA was hosting West Point in Colorado this year, we invited the local Army grads to join us to watch the game. We met at Tobacco Road Sports Cafe in Durham, overlooking the Durham Bulls stadium. As it turns out, they took that invitation to heart and had twice (if not three times!) the number of grads we were able to muster. It was a good time with positive comments made by all... except for USAFA grads when referencing the score.
Sadly, USAFA grads didn't have a reason to do pushups as our record for number of games without a shut-out came to an end. They played us even tougher than Navy did and we able to execute their game plan. If they continue with this strong play, they might be able to end the long drought of Commander in Chief's trophies for West Point this year. I can't believe I'm cheering for Army on that one...
Sadly, USAFA grads didn't have a reason to do pushups as our record for number of games without a shut-out came to an end. They played us even tougher than Navy did and we able to execute their game plan. If they continue with this strong play, they might be able to end the long drought of Commander in Chief's trophies for West Point this year. I can't believe I'm cheering for Army on that one...
The "Old Boot" is ours in 2017!
September 18th, 2017 was a beautiful day. It wasn't too hot, we were surrounded by friends, it was the USAF's birthday, and USAFA earned the "Old Boot" for the first time in many years. When I say we won, what I mean to say is we crushed the competition. We were able to field 5 ½ teams... and we won 5 ½ matches! What a showing! I want to give a shout out to the grads who came out:
- Jack Parker, Class of 1978
- Ernie Eannarino, Class of 1984
- Hussy Haslett, Class of 1977
- Chuck Kavcsak, Class of 1968
- Robert Schnick, Class of 1972
- Dick Kells, Class of 1969
- Ron Hoskins, Class of 1973
- Chris Young, Class of 1973
- Bruce Froehler, Class of 1978
- Mitch Packett, Class of 1983
- Patrick Yanke, Class of 1993
May 9th Monthly Meeting
Durham Bulls Game at Tobacco Road Cafe
Durham Bulls Game at Tobacco Road Cafe
Founders Day 2017
April 7, 2017
April 7, 2017
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Our Founders Day Events for 2017 included a golf tournament and dinner. Participation was a bit hard to muster this year... but those who participated had a great time. Our special guest and presenter was Col Brian Hill, Class of 1991, Vice Athletic Director at USAFA. He participated in all events with us.
It was a cold and windy day on the golf course... and that made for a game of attrition. Although five were signed up to play as the day started, we lost one before the first hole to sickness--the cold was too much for his condition. After nine holes, we lost another due to an unrelated medical reason. The three survivors enjoyed a full round of searching for golf balls to replace ones we lost. There were moments of brilliance, amazing occurrences, and shots that should never be mentioned in polite company again. In the end, Col Hill and Bruce Froehler should be ashamed for letting me win. |
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Our dinner was an intimate affair at McCormick & Schmick's on Glenwood Ave in Raleigh. Col Hill gave us an update on the goings on at our Alma Mater with perspectives on character, leadership, and success. USAFA ranks among the best colleges in America in all categories and the very top tier of public colleges. USAFA has a proud tradition in its short tenure and a very bright future in the success of the graduates.
It's good to have graduates involved in current programs at the Academy. Being a public institution and military installation, the support provided by the government is basic in line with other government programs. When facilities are built, they would be basic structures lacking aesthetic flourishes without the added support of the community. The style of the Academy, the beauty of her facilities, and the depth of her programs is a testament to the support given by those who believe in her vision. There will always be a need and a mission for the graduates to contribute to the success of the Academy.
It's good to have graduates involved in current programs at the Academy. Being a public institution and military installation, the support provided by the government is basic in line with other government programs. When facilities are built, they would be basic structures lacking aesthetic flourishes without the added support of the community. The style of the Academy, the beauty of her facilities, and the depth of her programs is a testament to the support given by those who believe in her vision. There will always be a need and a mission for the graduates to contribute to the success of the Academy.
Dark Ages Dinner 2017
March 14, 2017
March 14, 2017
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This year's Dark Ages Dinner was served at Jimmy V's Steakhouse in Cary, NC. Guests were served a delicious array of fine cuisine while reminiscing over times long ago. MGen Wells spoke to us again this year. His topic was Cybersecurity, an area of international specialty for him. It was a very sobering discussion of online privacy and personal security. There are eyes everywhere online and caution is warranted. From the simple marketing techniques which follow you from page to page for retail targeting to the more nefarious actors with malicious intent, be careful what you do online. It was a great evening among friends in an intimate setting. |
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Founder's Day 2016
April 28-29, 2016
April 28-29, 2016
On April 28-28, 2016, we held our Founder's Day event at the River Landing in Wallace, NC. The event included golf on Thursday afternoon which was followed by a dinner at the clubhouse. Our guest speaker was Gary Howe, Executive Vice-President for Operations of the USAFA AOG. There was more golf on Friday morning. tournament winners were First Place - Thuy Johnston, wife of Bob Johnston '68; Second Place - Tom Green '79 and Third Place - J.W. "Wild Bill" Stealey '70.
Dark Ages Dinner - February 29, 2016
Most every graduate will remember the "Dark Ages", that seemingly unending period of time that begins shortly after the Winter Solstice (i.e. the end of Christmas Break) and ends near the Vernal Equinox (i.e. the beginning of Spring Break). The days are short. It gets dark early. When there is light, the skies are snow laden and gray, blending with the glass, aluminum and granite structures of the Academy. We're getting depressed just writing this! Fortunately, the antidote is to get together for some good food, drink and fellowship. This year, we were fortunate to have Larry "Snake" Wells '78, MGen USAF (Retired) join us at Maggiano's in Durham to speak to us about the state of our Air Force as well as provide his perspective on the current the situation with Russia/NATO, the Middle East, North Korea and China. He provided a lot of food for thought.
Donation of USAFA Flag to the Virginia War Memorial
Members of the Air Force Academy Society of North Carolina contributed the funds to purchase the flag and have it fire proofed. It hangs in the Hall of Honor at the Memorial.
Annual Freedom Classic Baseball Tournament
Each year, at the end of February, the town of Kinston in Eastern NC hosts the Freedom Classic baseball tournament. Air Force faces Navy in an early season three game stand. It is a great time for grads in the area to get together and cheer the Falcons on.
Triangle Area Service Academy Golf Tournament
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The competition for the "Old Boot" is an annual event in which graduates from the Air Force Academy are paired against graduates of West Point and Annapolis. There is great camaraderie and fun. Much beer is also consumed. The format, (two-man scramble/match play) is friendly to participants of all skill levels. Turn out is equally as important as skill
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Pig Pickin's at the home of Hal Keck ('62) in Goldsboro
When cadets would come to Seymour Johnson AFB in Goldsboro as part of their summer training Hal Keck '62 would host "Pig Pickins" at which the graduate community could mingle with "future" grads
Founder's Day 2015
In 2015, we held our Founder's Day event at Ft. Belvoir, VA. The event was the premier of a documentary, One More Walk Around, chronicling of the life of Gen. Alton D. Slay. The film was produced and directed by Tom Sylvester '88, a long time member of the Society. The setting of the documentary is the National Museum of the Air Force in Dayton, OH. Gen. Slay tours the museum and relates his experiences in flying many of the aircraft that are on display. (To view a trailer of the film. please click on its name)
Founder's Day 2014
Our 2014 Founder's Day event was held in Cary, NC. The event was the premier of the documentary, The Satellite Men by Tom Sylvester. The time frame is the Cold War and the Cuban Missile Crisis. This is the amazing story of LtCol Tom Haig and his team and their efforts to get what was the first Defense Meteorological Satellite into orbit. Much of the information in the film had been classified for years. (To view a trailer of the film. please click on its name)
Founder's Day 2008
In April 2008, we held our Founder's Day event at Seymour Johnson AFB in Goldsboro. The day started with a morning briefing to graduates from members of the 4th Fighter Wing regarding their recent deployment to Afghanistan. In the afternoon, we held a scramble at the Three Eagles golf course on base. This was followed by a dinner at the Officer's Club in the evening. Our guest speaker was coach Fisher DeBerry.
