-= COMMEMORATIVE AIR FORCE =-

Today a State District Judge entered an Order placing the American Airpower Heritage Museum (the "Museum") into temporary receivership. The Court found that a receiver was warranted under Sections 11.404(a)(1)(C) and 11.404(a)(3) of the Texas Business Organizations Code. These statutes authorize the appointment of a receiver if a Court finds "the actions of the governing persons of the entity are illegal, oppressive, or fraudulent" and where "courts of equity have traditionally appointed a receiver." The Court entered this Order after conducting an evidentiary hearing that lasted most of the day on February 12, 2010. At this hearing, the Court admitted numerous documentary exhibits and heard the testimony of CAF President / CEO, Stephan Brown, CAF Chief of Staff, Mark Novak, and Museum President, Gordon Stevenson. Under the Court's Order, the receiver is "to call and conduct a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Museum . . . to cause the election of properly qualified members of that Board of Directors so that a majority of the members of the Museum Board of Directors also currently serve as members of the CAF General Staff as is required by the Museum Bylaws . . ." The Court's Order is to take effect in seven days.

The Flying Museum Board, under the leadership of Board Chairman Col Keith Wood, is going to evaluate the entire fleet to see what we have, what we need and what we do not need. That way we acquire what we need to accomplish our mission and we divest ourselves of the unwanted aircraft that are obviously not needed to accomplish our mission. I think this oversight is overdue and all of the Board members of the FlyingMuseum have welcomed this thought of increased control and guidance.

If you have questions or comments, please e-mail Steve Brown directly: sbrown@cafhq.org

The Judge today ruled in FAVOR of the CAF’s request to appoint a Receiver to re-constitute the Museum Board, as per their Bylaws, with a minimum of 6 current General Staff Members. We are hopeful that this is the end of a long and painful journey and that the “CAF” will again come together and move forward in the common mission of Honoring American Aviation – Lest We Forget what our organizations are here to do.

I will post the Judge’s officially worded ruling when it becomes available, sometime next week.

If you have questions or comments, please e-mail Steve Brown directly: sbrown@cafhq.org

It has been a couple of weeks since I checked in on this Blog – sorry for the silence. Of course, just prior and thereafter there was plenty of grist for the mill.

You may have noticed that the CAF and four of the General Staff members, who also serve on the Museum’s Board, filed a Temporary Restraining Order against the Museum, requesting that the Judge appoint a Receiver. What that means, in layman’s terms, is that the TRO keeps the Museum Board from performing any action, with a request for the Judge to appoint a Receiver to oversee the reconstitution of the Museum Board, as per its Bylaws; with 6 General Staff and 5 non- GS members. A Receiver is a typically a local attorney appointed by the Judge for a specific task – and in this case it would be to hold the election of the 2 needed General Staff Members to the Museum Board, plus the election of Officers.

This suit was a last resort effort, after the Museum Board and its President declined three efforts to meet in order to re-constitute its Board, as per their Bylaws; even after the formal request of four of its members. So, currently the Board is illegally constituted (in the eyes of the four Board members and the CAF)

This past Friday Mark Novak (CAF Chief of Staff) and myself went before the Court, represented by Col Chris Aycock, a well-respected litigator and member of the Staff of the CAF High Sky Wing. Chris did a great job presenting the logic of the case and has spent a large amount of his time representing the CAF - pro bono. At this point, we are waiting for a ruling from the Judge, which is expected this Friday Feb.19.

If you are coming to Wing Staff Conference this March, there will be a detailed briefing on this situation, by Mark Novak and all of the General Staff. Also, when this business is finished – and I hope it to be soon – I will give you my detailed thoughts on this entire subject.

The following letters were submitted to Headquarters in response to the General Staff’s decision to remove two members. Immediately following this decision and several days therafter were questions and comments expressed by Members.

What prompted me to place all of these emails on the web was a request from COL Ken Fields to publish his letter in Dispatch. I declined to do so, as Dispatch comes out 2 months from now, which would be too late for this timely matter. Also, Letters to the Editors regard articles in the magazine, not CAF policy.

But, I decided that if I was going to publish this letter, it is only fair that I publish ALL of the correspondence and my answers to the questions or issues raised which I have received thus far on this topic. Following are all of those emails.

Steve Brown

We always encourage member’s to send us their thoughts, comments, and questions, Please feel free to e-mail me at sbrown@cafhq.org

Dear Steve:

As you know from our previous correspondence, I am deeply disappointed and disturbed by the actions of the General Staff in kicking off Graham Robertson and Floyd Houdashell, good men of conscience and long service. In my 27 years in the CAF, some of it on the General Staff, some on the Museum Board, some as Chairman of the Membership Committee, I have never seen anything like it. Lloyd Nolen must be spinning in his grave. For many years, we have had a system of overlapping members of the Boards of the CAF, Airpower Museum, Flying Museum, and Foundation. In my experience, this system worked just fine until you came along. Recently, the Museum Board rejected a motion to elect you as CEO of the Museum. Shortly thereafter, Graham and Floyd are thrown off of the General Staff. It looks to me like we have had our own Night of the Long Knives, with Graham and Floyd suffering the consequences of their principled opposition to your election as Museum CEO, and for resisting efforts to pack the Museum Board with your supporters. Graham and Floyd discharged their duties as Museum Board members under Texas law in good faith, with ordinary care, and in a manner they reasonably believed to be in the best interest of the Museum. No good deed goes unpunished. Your press release appeared to me to be an attempt to justify their removal by characterizing the Museum Board as a run-away entity, posing all manner of dire possibilities had the General Staff not acted. I find your characterization of the Museum Board ridiculous. It seems to me that, like other Dear Leaders, you have a penchant for setting up straw men and knocking them down. Your press release brings to my mind a quote from the Vietnam era, “It was necessary to destroy the village in order to save it.” The upshot of all of this may indeed be that you succeed in getting yourself named as CEO of the Museum, a position you are not, in my opinion, competent to fill, nor would I trust you in such position. Sadly, I feel all of this flapdoodle has been totally unnecessary, and I fear the damage to the CAF will be long-lived and irreparable. If our system of overlapping Board membership fails to survive, you will have only yourself, and a General Staff which seems to me to have lost its way, to thank. I appreciate your offer to meet personally to discuss these matters, but, unless and until Graham and Floyd are reinstated to the General Staff, I do not see that there is anything to discuss. Further, under the circumstances, I believe it would be appropriate for you to submit your resignation as CEO of the CAF. You have already informed me that you do not feel I am qualified to make that suggestion. I respectfully disagree. Even a cat can look at a king. What next, my liege – expulsion for sedition?

Sincerely,

Ken Fields

Dear Ken;

At some point in all of this Museum consternation, I personally invited you to sit down with me, so that I might give you my perspective. You never took me up on that. It is apparent however, that you have been garnering an opinion from somewhere… But, you have never done what I would expect of a lawyer - investigate both sides of the issue and decide for yourself.

Nonetheless, you have somehow arrived at the opinion that I am the kind of CEO, who could delude 8 members of the General Staff; people I thought you respected and who you call “friends” to Vote as I wished. To accomplish something like that would make me some type of hypnotist – that or a hell of a leader. But I make claims to neither and you disrespect your “friends” on the GS by your inference. In reality, you have not completed a full due diligence of the situation. My belief is that if you had, your conclusion of the situation would be in line with the GS, who have dealt with these issues, up close and in detail for 18 months. You point out that you were a member of the GS - who better should know that there is depth to every issue that a non-participant can’t see?

As far your suggesting you would be expelled? I am in the recruiting business and I need every member, even the ones who haven’t taken the time to get to know both sides of issues. My door is always open and my cell phone is always on if you ever make that decision.

Respectfully,

Steve

Hello Mr. Brown,
I received your notice about the 2 members removed from the General Staff. I have great difficulty in believing that my long time friend and co-CAF member Floyd Houdashell, Jr. had the ideas in mind that you spell out in your letter. I have always known him to look out for, and stand up for what is best for the CAF and all of its units. It is hard for me to grasp that these men were removed from the Staff after they were elected into office by the membership. Floyd has been voted onto the Staff for more that 1 term. That tells me that the General Membership knows his background, and knowledge of the CAF. These are just my opinions. Thanks for your time. Regards,
Scott Apple

Thanks Scott. This was the actions of 8 General Staff members. But the actions I described are in the Museum Board minutes. I personally like Floyd Houdashell very much and I know that this was a tough decision for the GS to make. Thanks for your input. All the best
Steve

Okay, Thanks for the reply. Regards,

Scott

Steve ,
Just one persons opinion , but I think you did the right thing .
Marty Case

Thank you Marty.

Steve

Steve -

As a field member a long way from Midland and its politics, it seems imperative to me that the General Staff advise the membership clearly and in detail of ALL the pertinent facts about this situation!

Dick Whelan

Hi Dick

The details were in the email and they tasked me to inform you. What other details can I provide? Thanks for writing.

Steve

Hello Steve:

I read your communiqué with interest. It seems straight forward enough. Just curious for the back story though.

1. This inference I draw is that this has been brewing for a while. What was the motivation or agenda of the two removed members, apparent or otherwise, and when did it first surface?

2. Under what provision(s) were the two members removed? Was it based solely on by-laws or were Texas statutory powers utilized?

3. Do you know or have a sense of whether or not the two members will challenge the action?

Hope the drama subsides.

David Swartzbaugh, Heart of America Wing

Hi David

Let me try to answer. 1. Over a year. There were 2 attempts to change the Museum Bylaws reducing the majority control of the CAF GS and therein the CAF members. 2. The CAF Constitution and Bylaws. 3. No idea. Thanks

Steve

Steve,

In addition to being Wing Leader of the Cleveland Wing CAF, I am a business lawyer who has represented numerous non-profit, tax-exempt organizations over the years, and the action by the General Staff to preserve control by the CAF over the Museum makes abundant sense to me. Apart from tax concerns, a “decoupled” Museum might well drift away from its vital supporting role to the CAF at large. I, too, commend the General Staff for taking swift and decisive action to prevent the Museum from becoming an entity no longer answerable to the CAF Membership.

Regards,

Kevin

Thank you Kevin.
Steve

Well said. I am sorry it had to happen but the CAF will be better off in the long run.
Kathy Mizell

Thanks Kathy.
Steve

Steve,

I, for one, wish to commend the General Staff for the actions taken last Saturday to remove two members. As one who has incorporated both 501(c)3 and 510(c)19 organizations, and served on many State and National BOD's, I can empathize with the problems created when some members decide to take their own flight path, rather than maintaining the direction as set forth by the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws of the organization. I am sure that this has been a tough decision for all involved. I thank all who have had to make the decision to protect this entity on my behalf, as well as the rest of the membership. Hopefully all will understand the need for this action, although I know that not to be true. In Brotherhood,
Col. Donald Waak

Thanks a lot Don.
Steve

Steve,

I’m sorry to learn of the problems the Museum is encountering. It is incidents like this that weakens an organization and hurts friendships. Being so far from Midland, I get my information second hand and as is often the case, their personal biases are reflected in what they write. I’m praying that the end result will be what is best for the organization and feeling aren’t hurt.

Brad F. Gritton

Hi Brad,

Thank you for your thoughts. I realize you are a strong supporter of the CAF and the CAF Museum and I appreciate you keeping an open mind. I won’t try to persuade you, as the facts speak for themselves. We are hoping to get through this difficult time quickly.

Steve

STEVE

AS A 20 YEAR MEMBER, I'D LIKE (IN THE INTEREST OF FAIRNESS AND CLARITY) TO HAVE THE REMOVED BOARD MEMBERS BE ALLOWED TO EXPLAIN THEIR CASE (IF THERE IS ONE) TO THE MEMBERSHIP.

COL. BOB CONSTANTINE, AIR GROUP ONE.

I don’t know how they can explain their case to the membership, except by appearing at Wing Staff Conference or the General Membership meeting. For over a year and a half, they explained their case to the General Staff members and also discussed it at last year’s Wing Staff Conference. But, the problem escalated when the 2 members voted (twice) to attempt to change the Museum Bylaws, such that your elected membership representatives would no longer have control of the CAF Museum. If that had occurred, all of the assets contributed by the CAF members would have been out of the CAF’s control. I hope that helps clarify.

Steve

Dear Mr. Brown,

Re: General Staff Action; I’m sure that there are two sides of the story, and would like to think that the intentions of the Museum’s Board were not intended to be malicious. However, your explanation and the actions of the General Staff appear to be in keeping of the CAF mission, and I applaud you all for your actions. Thank you for your continued leadership. The positive changes in the CAF since your appointment are noticeable. Regards,

Stefan Knieling, Gulf Coast Wing

Thank you for keeping us all posted. I grateful colonel,

Glenna Sue Wood

Steve -

I thank you for the extra explanation - it was desperately needed. I'd also suggest, in the strongest possible terms, that the Chief of Staff get on the wire and get some information out because this event does not pass the smell test to those of us only vaguely aware of the organizational differences, okay? We need to hear from the guys who made this happen. General Staff, Chief of Staff, separately or together I care not - but somebody in that group needs to be running public, utterly transparent, damage control and they need it right now.

Yesterday would have been better. Be blunt, be honest, be detailed, and be early. Issues accomplished in Executive Session stink and are very difficult to scrub clean. I give you the US Legislature for example, and look at the single-digit approval ratings those worthies have earned......but I digress......How were the additional GS members selected and by whom?

Thanks for your time, Steve!

Douglas Derr

Douglas,

Your points are good. The CoS is writing you back and will also address the membership on the web. The Interim GS members are Charles Hutchins and Randy Wilson, - both former GS members and were voted in unanimously by the General Staff. They will hold that position until the next election, this October 2010.

Steve

OUTSTANDING. Please pass along copious thanks to Bill for a reasoned and detailed response. I have no doubt such actions are undertaken with due gravity. And I clearly understand the protection of the CAF status as a 501(c)3 organization is fundamental to our continued existence. The explanations address the structural issues, but if I can distill my general concerns to a single point, it would be this:

I appreciate that the CAF must be governed by a single entity elected by the membership and that entity is the GS. But Houdashell and Robertson were members of that body and were elected by the membership......so how were these guys removed from the GS if they were elected like every other GS member? Somebody, or several somebodies, within the CAF membership must support their position or they would not be, were they are.

I apologize if I am missing an obvious point here, but disagreements - even contentious versions - cannot be reason to be tossed off (forcibly removed, administratively negated, voted off the island, whatever) the GS, can it?

Why weren't these people simply outvoted rather than being removed?

Thanks again, Steve, for your time and consideration.
Douglas Derr

Disagreements occur all the time and it never comes to this. The reason it arrived at this point Douglas, is because of the ACTIONS that they and other non-GS members of the Museum Board took: That of changing the 20 year old Museum Bylaws to eliminate the requirement of majority GS members. As Bill explained, he and the other GS members tried for 18 months to dissuade them, but finally after they attempted twice to change the Bylaws, it was either remove them or lose control of the CAF Museum; from the CAF membership. So, we could be explaining this action that was taken – OR - why we let the Museum be wrested from the control of the CAF membership?….I think the GS made the correct decision; as difficult as it was.

Steve

Steve:

For what it's worth, I agree with the decision.

Colonel Dale Martin, DFW Wing Member

Thank you for writing Dale.

Steve

Steve:

I would like to know how in the first announcement of the changes that the Elected members of the General Staff, who are supposed to be in control of the museum, turn around, kick two members off the General Staff and APPOINT two new members who have not been elected. And all this was done behind closed doors without consulting the membership?? This gives the CAF a big black eye from all of the press I have been reading. This issue has been grossly mishandled. I think for the sake of all concerned, and especially the CAF, that the two members should be re-instated immediately and the issue taken before the membership with a full disclosure. I am deeply disappointed in the actions of the General Staff. If this matter is not cleaned up quickly, knowing the history of previous membership reactions, you may rest assured there will be a much deeper inquiry and possible legal ramifications. I do not wish to see it go that far or for anybody to lose their jobs. The members of the CAF have worked too hard to be brought to the brink of collapse over control issues or any other issue. It has always been our weakness, but I have never seen it this bad. I hope you will reconsider this matter and advise the General Staff members of same.

Sincerely,

Jim Reynolds

Jim
Thanks for your email. This action was done in accordance with the CAF Constitution and Bylaws as approved by the General Membership. The 2 members are Interim until the next election, where their spots will be open for General election. There is nothing for me to reconsider, as I was not in this meeting and have no vote in Board matters. I have copied my response and your comments to the outgoing and incoming Chiefs of Staff.
Steve Brown

Steve:

Thanks for your response. I hope this gets settled quickly before it blows up. Like I said, I have seen these kinds of actions set the operation back for years and leave a lot of hard feelings. We lose a lot of members as it is because of personality conflicts and power struggles. Not good. I hope you understand my concern.

Jim Reynolds

I understand your concern completely Jim. The goal is to get this settled and move on to the business of Honoring American Military Aviation

Stephan C. Brown

Steve:

I applaud the decision, however difficult it proved to be. Your message to the troops is well conceived and properly (in my opinion) worded. Good on ya!
Pete Jacobs

Thanks Peter!
Steve

Steve -

Thank you for the email describing what happened in such detail. A flying club that I am in here in the Houston area recently had some upheaval. It's easy to throw darts and shift blame. I appreciate the CAF leadership not taking chances with our future and making the tough choices.

Danny

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Danny.
Steve

Col. Brown:

Based on the information in your e mail I commend you for taking appropriate action to maintain the integrity of the organization and its possessions. Personally, I just finished a four year term on a board of a Not For Profit. The Board I served on was faced with a somewhat similar situation which required removal of an individual, which we did. I can therefore sympathize with the situation you were placed in. It is not pleasant.

I just thought I would forward a positive comment on your handling of an unpleasant situation.

Sincerely,

Col. Zel Eaton

Zel

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, support and common experience.

Steve

Thanks Steve for your explanation and being on top of this situation before we lost control to these two clowns.

Jay Thomson, Utah

Please be correct when stating "historical" facts; we were STILL known as CONFEDERATE Air Force(and STILL should be) in the 80's!! Or you become as Forest Gump;"stupid is as stupid does".

Thomas Durham

LOL – Ok Thomas, I will try to avoid the Forest Gump syndrome.

Steve

Sounds like a very good move to me.. Thanks for explaining the board’s actions.. I think that we will all be better off for it..

Larry K. Daudt

Steve,
Thanks for taking the time to provide some background regarding the situation.
Chris Madrid, Dixie Wing

Thank you Chris
Steve

Steve,

I commend you and the General Staff for the action taken last Saturday. I don’t know the details of the controversy but in trusting you and the Staff I think you did the right thing. We, the members of the CAF trust the leaders and support the action taken. I speak as one but I think I reflect the thoughts of the majority. Thank you and “Keep ‘em Flying”

Bill Godwin

Thank you Bill. That means a lot coming from you. I passed along your sentiments to the GS.
Steve

The question is, who were these members working with to do this? There is
always a ring leader who gets others to see it "his way". If that is the
case, which we saw when the CAF first was brought to Midland, should not
sanctions be taken with one or more of the leaders as well as these two
General Staff members to prevent that person or persons from creating other issues in the future?

Bob Halford

As you weren't there were you privy to the intent of the (Executive Session) before it met? Also just a warning from a mere 25 year member.............If you watch National politics you ain't seen nothing yet. Tea parties are from a bunch of disgruntled folks who see their country losing its' might. I intend to have rallies of CAF members whose votes (for staff members) are thrown out with the trash. Personally I see no right to FIRE staff members in the By-laws, but I do believe a recall of remaining members is not out of the question. The genie is out of the bottle now and she ain't going back in. Of all the crap Headquarters has pulled in the last few years this one has got to take the cake.
You preach all the CAF has to do to grow is recruit new members.............try talking someone into joining after they hear of this crap!
Wayne Nelson

Wayne,

The members that were removed had attempted twice, along with Non-CAF GS Museum Directors to change the Bylaws of the CAF museum, eliminating the majority membership of GS members…i.e. removing it from control of the CAF. With that control, they could do whatever they pleased with the Museum and the CAF members would have no say. What are your thoughts on that? Thanks for your comments.

Steve

Steve thanks for replying. Just how would two members change the bylaws on their own without membership approval? If this is a concern what keeps the remaining general staff members from trying the same thing on their own agenda. Although not a government entity wouldn't some change like this constitute malfesance? Even under these conditions what chapter, paragraph of the bylaws were these members removed from office?

I agree if these changes were to be made in an effort to undermine the majority of members wishes then something should be done.........like a complete transparency of what is going on in Midland, and not a rush to closed door meetings and keeping the membership in the dark. Respectfully,

Wayne

Two GS members of the Museum Board, along with other non-GS members of the Museum Board can combine to make a majority to change the Museum Bylaws; specifically because there is no membership. The GS CANNOT change the CAF Bylaws WITHOUT approval from the full membership. Therein lays the real concern.

There was no rushed meeting held to keep the membership in the dark, as you suggest. This issue was in the open at last year’s Wing Staff Conference, and was discussed in the General meeting. Meetings had also occurred in the open at previous GS meeting throughout the year. 18 months of discussions in the open were had with the members who were eliminated….therefore there has been and continues to be transparency in Midland. As you see, I answer every email and every question that members pose.

Here is the section of the Bylaws you requested.

Article V ‑ Vacancies

1. Vacancies in any office on the General Staff, by resignation or otherwise, may be filled by appointment by a majority vote of all remaining General Staff. The term of such interim appointment shall expire on 31 December of the year of appointment. Such vacated General Staff member position shall be filled for its remaining term at the first Membership Meeting after the office first becomes vacant, in accordance with the procedures in ARTICLE IV.

2. A General Staff Officer may be removed from office by affirmative vote of eight (8) of eleven (11) General Staff Officers at a meeting called for that purpose.

a. General Staff officers will be automatically removed from office for missing three (3) regularly scheduled board meetings in any given calendar year; or

b. For any act of malfeasance.

(The entire CAF Constitution and Bylaws are online) but I have attached them to this email for your convenience.

Steve

I want to compliment you and the General staff on taking the measures necessary to continue our control of the Museum.

Robert D Sellers, Great Planes Wing

I have read your latest email of January 18th and it seems right on as I know the history of the CAF and it’s museum. The underlying problems come from individuals and not structure. The structure worked for 15 years until individual ego's, agenda's and politics came into play..When I was on the museum board I said many times" We are one organization". That position was respected by the museum board in making decisions that mutually benefited the museum and the CAF as a whole. The actions taken by the general staff on January 16th will preserve this internal working relationship between CAF entities.Regards,

Bob Thompson, Former CAF Chief of Staff and AAHM board member

Hi Steve –

Since you have arrived as the head of CAF I have enjoyed the time and efforts you have made to bring the CAF up to date on many issues. But the last paragraphs last sentence are a bit confusing. The sentence says: No one, etc "we let the Museum go."

DID THAT REFER TO THE "MUSEUM BOARD or the MUSEUM IT SELF. If so is the museum considering moving or just a control issue of it's members?

Knowing that you are still working and your time is important, please drop me a e-mail or send out a notice about the action taken out to the membership..Many thanks for all of your time and efforts keeping the CAF something we can always be proud to show to our friends .Sincerely,

Col William John Leahy, Golden Gate Wing

Col Leahy,

What that sentence referred to was the fact that the Museum itself becomes endangered if the majority of the GS is not maintained. Twice they attempted to make that change and IF that change had occurred, the Museum Board would no longer have to take the CAF into account in ANY decisions they would make going forward. When the 3 additional corporations were set up (Foundation, Flying Museum and Museum), it was in an effort to limit liability, NOT to eliminate control by the CAF. That control remains intact today, because of the gutsy decisions made by the GS.I hope that clears things up for you. Thanks,

Steve

Hi Steve

Many thanks for your reply on my question. I have been part of aviation since 1953 till I retired from Delta Airlines in 1995. Still attend Golden Gate Wing any time I can get a ride. Many thanks for your hard and long hours time you spend keeping the CAF strong. I wish I could do more, I had planned on getting checked out on B-29 but lost my medical, so I am a ground CAF member.

Keep them flying,

Bill Leahy

Steve:

Well I guess all we have to look forward to is a one-sided view of this situation from the vanquist, and no reply from the people that matter. It seems to me that openness is the primary objective in these cases, after all we are the ones providing the major funding for this organization. I look forward to hearing their side of the story and also ours.

Col Chuck Gilpatrick, Wisc. Wing

Hi Chuck,

Check the web for Bill Coombes comments as well. There side is available at this link, from a newspaper article. But in effect, the Museum does not want to be controlled by the CAF, which is what is provided in their Bylaws now – so they attempted to change those Bylaws (twice). The GS tried solve this for 18 months, but their ACTION to try to change the Museum Bylaws left them no choice. It was either remove these two GS members, or lose control of the CAF Museum for good.

Steve

Yesterday I was interviewed by 2 TV stations: One on camera and one on the phone.

http://permianbasin360.com/content/fulltext/?cid=57882 Channel 2 KMID

The Odessa American was on the line again and the link is to the resultant article.

http://www.oaoa.com/news/museum-41879-span-bodytext.html - Odessa American this morning

Steve

Just exactly was their position on changing the board? Or what were they trying to do with the assets of the Museum? That is the question? I, along with others would at least like to hear their side of this argument. I am curious as to why they want to change these rules or bylaws? Was there something that we were doing that made them want to change the rules?, or was it just greed?. Sincerely,

Chuck Gilpatrick, WISC. wing

Chuck,

They do not put forth their argument, but the long and the short of it came down to control. The GS tried to implement changes in the operational structure of the Museum and since the Museum Board members (especially the non-GS members) did not want to make those changes, they decided to try and change the rules of the game – by changing the 20 year old Museum Bylaws. I don’t want to speculate or insinuate what they wanted to do with the assets, but regardless, the GS could not allow the CAF Museum, founded by the CAF members to be lost ultimately, from the member’s control. Thanks for writing Chuck – I hope you are coming to WSC – there will be more discussions on this topic there as well. All the Best,

Steve

Hello Steve,

I have been following this situation for some time. Having to remove two very long time, dedicated, hard working, loyal CAF General Staff Members from their position on the Museum Board was an action hopefully that will never need to be repeated. I hope that both Cols Houdashell, and Robertson although bruised, will remain and be of further help to our organization that we all love and cherish. Having Mark Novak as the new Chief of Staff in my opinion is a very good move. See you at the conference.

Col Joe Gonzalez, Nevada Wing Leader

Steve,

I see you all had a big weekend; I have a couple of questions. If there is 3 or 4 separate corporations all funded by member dues, why aren't the board of directors of each the corporations elected by the membership? Are the 3 or 4 corporations really separate?

If the elected General Staff members were the board members of all 3 or 4 corporations, we would not have the this problem with the Museum, correct or not? Thanks for the good job

Mike Burke

Hi Mike
The Foundation hold the Endowment funds.
The Flying Museum holds the airplanes.
The Museum is the only one with Staff and it holds the Static assets.
The structure was set up 20 years ago just for liability purposes. Through the majority GS member requirement control of each by the membership, through the elected GS majority, each operated in line with the CAF membership, until now. Through the attempted change of the Museum Bylaws, that control was placed at risk. This removal action regained that control.
They are separate legally.
The GS is the majority in all 4 corporations, as required by their respective Bylaws. The problem occurred when 2 GS and 5 non-GS members attempted to changed the Bylaws. Mark Novak and Charles Hutchins thwarted that measure, but a permanent solution was needed.
That occurred Saturday. Thanks for your questions and comments.
Steve

Steve,

I've read with great concern the recent e-mails. I’d like to know how it is that what you correctly refer to as "the CAF General Staff, your elected representatives"; how it is that my elected representatives can be removed by the majority of the General Staff? If this is possible, then no position of any kind dissenting from the majority would appear safe from such action. I am very concerned about this, and would appreciate your routing this to someone who can (and will) provide a complete explanation of how this kind of action is possible.

Respectfully,

Paul Walker

Hi Paul,

They cannot be removed by a simple majority, as this very rare action and takes 8 of 11 members to remove a fellow member. It has not happened in many years and it is viewed very seriously. The attached article describes how things got to this level. Rest assured, there are always dissenting opinions among the members and opposing viewpoints are encouraged. The difference here is the ACTION that these two members took, to attempt to change the Bylaws of the Museum, removing control of the Museum from the CAF membership control.

After you read the article, let me know if you have any other additional questions. All the Best,

Steve

Dear Steve

Thanks for your recent info re the attempted takeover of the AAHM. I probably have a more direct interest in the AAHM that most other CAF members. The AAHM has the GIRL-MISS YOUR LOVIN on display. I am the navigator of the crew who flew that B-24 back to the states after the War. We coined the name. I was largely responsible for getting the 456th Bomb Group Assoc. to contribute a few thousand $$$ to rehab the panel. Tami, of course, provided the spark that finalized the deal. I sure hope Tami is still our Director. An aside here. My first association with the panel was a visit to it in 1989 in Harlingen following the B-24 5oth anniv. convention at Dallas/Ft. Worth..Following that visit I provided much material about the crew. Then I made a phone call to discuss with the folks in Harlingen. I dialed what I thought was the phone # and when a male voice answered, I asked," is this the Confederate Air Force?". The voice answered, "Hell no, but I didn't know we had one-when do we attack /"?! Needless to say, I had dialed the wrong number and had connected to a guy in Columbus GA ! There are 4 of us crew still alive and right now, 3 will attend the 456th BGA meet convention in Pittsburgh in Aug.

There are no words strong enough to thank you for your energy expressed by your activities for CAF.

Walter Fox

Walter,

Thanks for your kind words in your note. I enjoyed learning about your history and contributions to our country and the CAF and I certainly enjoy, MISS YOUR LOVIN, as well as all of the wonderful nose art on display. I will now think of you when I stop in to look. Enjoy the reunion and thank you for your service to our country.

Steve

Dear Sir,

I have read and understood the two messages recently sent to the membership, concerning the removal of the two GS members Floyd Houdashell and Graham Robertson for the reasons you described in these messages. These accusations against these two gentlemen and the "other non-General Staff directors of the museum" are very serious indeed and I hope you realize that they have already deeply affected the life and morale of many members of the Commemorative Air Force. I, personally, was shocked to see that these people were not given any chance to express themselves the same way that you wrote to the entire membership. Any democratic organization should have made sure that all parties be given an equal chance to explain their positions and opinions. I thought the CAF was one of those organizations, but apparently I was wrong. I was also very upset to read that this chain of events took place over a period of more than one year, which instantly brought to my mind the following question: Why wasn't the membership advised about it ? The CAF General Assembly last October was an ideal occasion to do that! Why wasn't it used?

Finally, should the allegations contained in both of your messages be correct, I would have expected from the leaders of our organization a different attitude. An attitude that would have allowed them to find out the exact reasons why the accused acted that way. Finding these reasons would have been the only way to find the best cure to the problem in the most honourable way with the least damage to our association. I believe the situation now is such that the membership needs to be given a chance to listen to what the persons concerned have to say. By giving them this opportunity, you will show the entire membership that the CAF is still the fair organization we all love. Respectfully, but sadly,

Bernard Delfino, French Wing Unit Leader

Bernard,

Please forgive my tardiness in replying to your email. Things have been hectic around here.

The members of the General Staff who were removed were given ample opportunity to explain their positions to their fellow GS members. They have all been in agreement that the will of the GS majority must be followed, after the discussions have ended and a vote taken. Such was not the case. The accusations of changing the Museum Bylaws are within the Museum minutes and are not in dispute. These men have the opportunity to make their opinions known and if they choose to do that, to the entire membership, they will be published. But this was a General Staff action taken within that group, as provided by the CAF Constitution and Bylaws and not something these GS members took lightly. Therefore, it was conducted within the rules that the CAF members established and have had in effect for decades. The membership in attendance was advised about it at last year’s Wing Staff Meeting – however, the GS members that were removed were against the Membership being advised in great detail, so out of respect for them and in an effort to solve the issue quietly as they desired, we did not publish all of the details. However, once they took the action of attempting to change the Bylaws for the second time, the GS had no choice. Although it was a tough thing and all of them care for both of these two men; the GS felt they had no choice. Personally, I would rather be informing you of this action, than of informing you that the CAF membership no longer had control over the CAF Museum. I believe the CAF is an amazingly fair organization and that the GS deserves the membership’s thanks for this difficult but necessary action. Feel free to send me any further questions Bernard – I have attached my Letter to the Editor; which may better explain things.

Steve

Hello Steve,

Although we have not met I would like to take this time to thank you and those who so boldly took the action to preserve the integrity of things to the degree expressed by you to us the membership.

I have been following for awhile certain actions and have heard many things that could endanger the future of the Group. I am encouraged greatly by what has happened recently and hope and pray it all stays the course that has been charted. There will always be some deviation that needs to be corrected just as in any course plotted. Some of it is mild crosswind and some is tougher. Again thanks to all for staying the course.

Gene Knutson, Proud Col.

January 18, 2010

Brrrrr. It’s cold out there! Usually the lack of scenery in West Texas is made up for in the warm weather! Not today or yesterday – highs in the 20’s – Yikes. I left Wisconsin to avoid this cold stuff… Anyway, tomorrow, I launch to Houston to meet with the leadership there to investigate an Air Base site. Leah Block, our Creative Services and Merchandise Manager who lives in Houston, will be helping out as we present the possibilities. I am excited to see what they think about the potential to make an even larger impact than they do now. The Wings Over Houston air show is one of the largest in the country and we have Texas Raiders and Tora located there, along with the West Houston Squadron facility and 350 total members -all we need is a larger, more dramatic, physical presence to make a deeper footprint in the consciousness of the Houston population.

We have the General Staff meeting coming up next weekend and I am excited to share some exciting stuff that is on the horizon for next year: A National Celebrity Spokesperson, the potential for a collaboration with a prominent Texas Museum for a Texas Aviation Centennial Air Tour, a big article in a major aviation publication on the CAF and one of our airplanes, A CAF Digital magazine, a new unit forming…..am I teasing you too much? Well, you are getting a sneak peak, as readers of my little Blog here. Stay tuned to future On The Fly issues to see details on this stuff.

Speaking of OTF, you should have received one today or tomorrow regarding the Wing Staff Conference. We needed to move to Midland for the host hotel, so that we could keep both cities happy. We have been in Odessa for several years and so it was time to move to Midland. Our original hotel partner just couldn’t get what we needed done, for the price we felt that our members expected and deserved….so, we went back to the drawing board and Terri Brown and Autumn Esparza found us another venue and renegotiated and re-organized the entire package to be even better than year’s past – at a LOWER price! Nice job Ladies. So, this year, the price of the rooms went down $9 per night, we have free transportation to and from, Free Hot Breakfast and the O’Club will be open each evening for good CAF camaraderie. So, with the meetings being held in the HQ and new Commemorative Center, the O’Club and the CAF Hall of Fame Banquet, WSC 2010 should not be missed. I hope you all will come.

2010 is a year of promise for the CAF. We will balance the budget, get more planes flying, deliver more to the members, announce some major initiatives and partnerships and put FIFI back in the air!!! We will also put focus on our goal to educate Americans on the importance of military strength and honoring those who are responsible for preserving our freedoms.

I will hit the ground running at the end of the week as I travel to investigate a potential AIR BASE site. It is exciting to focus on rallying our members and resources to make a bigger “noise” in an environment which already is quite “noisy”….and what I mean by that is – with all of the TMZ celebrity distractions and focus, we need to refocus our citizens on those real American heroes!

And what better way to do it than utilizing our airplanes to tell unique and inspiring stories. Over the holidays I received a great email suggestion. They showed a clip of Don Hewitt, producer of 60 Minutes. He said, "The secret of 60 Minutes was four little words, Tell me a Story." Pretty simple....How about challenging every unit to write the story for each airplane. How about a contest, give awards. It needs to be part of the aircraft assignment process. "What story do you plan to tell with this airplane?" This message is right on the money. An airplane without a story is just pretty to look at and pretty to watch fly, for the moment…but an airplane with a story leaves a deep imprint upon an individual’s mind. Let’s use Tora as an example. If we had 10 T-6’s flying around and around, even blowing up pyro as they go by, would Tora be the world famous air show act that it is today? NO – It is because of the Story – eloquently and emotionally told – which makes the deep impression and teaches the lessons we need to remember. I have used the word “Edutainment” before and Tora is THE perfect example. It doesn’t even matter that none of the Japanese aircraft are authentic – it matters that they tell the story…Does your airplane have a story?

Christmas is upon us shortly and HQ is decorated nicely. We hosted our annual Christmas Office Party – like the rest of you may have had –this past weekend; at our home. The best part of the Christmas Season is the time you take for your friends, family and co-workers, just to gather and enjoy each other’s company and friendship. I also took several days last week and renewed my relationship with two important things in my life: my middle daughter and my airplane – both at the same time. Due to a busy schedule, I had not flown in awhile. My daughter is ready to move a little father from home for college so I used the airplane to fly her to Austin and San Antonio to look at prospects. The trip was great for all involved. I enjoyed the one on one time with my daughter, discussing her plans for her life ahead and also the challenge of going in and out of two busy airports. Although all 3 of my kids have grown up in my Cherokee Six, they mostly sat in the back and slept or read books. But now, with Lauren almost 20 years old, she was quite helpful in the cockpit. She would help me tune frequencies, watch out for traffic and calm my erratic wing leveler; which if left to its own devices will roll back and forth like a drunken sailor. So the trip got me 5 hours of flight time and 72 hours of Daddy time, both valuable to all involved.

The first day of ICAS (International Council of Air Shows) is in the books and CAF made a big splash. The new booths were debuted and they look First Class- as that is what the CAF is, first class. 16 units are here marketing their aircraft to air show promoters from around the country. The CAF is easy to find with a double row of booths totaling 10 spaces. Our members are standing tall and looking good in their Blue uniform shirts and khakis. Traffic in our row is brisk and we are the place for "all your warbird needs".

This morning I was interviewed on www.warbirdradio.com which is a new venture founded by CAF Colonel Matt Jolley. Go to his website to hear the interview and all of their warbird content.

I head to ICAS tomorrow and will try to shoot some photos to post to the blog – we have got to liven it up a bit with some pictures to go along with the words. At ICAS, CAF will have the most coordinated operation to date. When I first

went 2 years ago, we had 8 booths together, but you would never know it, because they all had various levels of professionalism, graphics and displays. Most consistent was the lack of recognition that these were CAF aircraft / units on display. Last year we made it much more apparent that this was the CAF row, with five-10 foot booths on each side of the aisle and the CAF “feathers” at the beginning of the CAF section and CAF flags pinned to each table. This year we have purchased nine 10 foot booths with consistent CAF graphics on each header – then each unit will Velcro their individual graphics and photos on the booth side below. (Tora already has their professional display purchased) Now all 10 booths will be easily identified as CAF and it will give us a much more professional look.) This will make us more attractive and credible to the air show producers gathered to book their acts for 2010. More next week!
Steve
If you have questions or comments e-mail Steve directly at sbrown@cafhq.org

Ahhh, I can taste the turkey now! As we traverse the path towards winding down 2009, I have heard several people mention that they are glad to be done with 2009! With the economy and travails that many of us have faced this year, this may be true. The other side of that coin is that we all have so much to be thankful for. If you are reading this, then you are on the right side of the lawn and can probably think of many things to be thankful about – whether your kids, grandkids, spouses or friends. Plus you don’t have very far to look before you find someone in worse shape than yourself.

I know that I am thankful and mindful of our troops overseas and in harms way – without their loved ones. When I was in my 20’s and stationed overseas, I remember eating several Thanksgiving meals in an Army Mess Hall. Those cooks made a great meal, but it didn’t take away the loneliness. So, I am thinking about all of them and thankful for their sacrifice on my behalf.

As you gather with your family, take a moment and tell a young person about the sacrifice our troops have been making for over 200 Thanksgivings. Tell them how important that sacrifice is and how it allows them the freedom to enjoy XBOX and football games and the abundance of food that America enjoys. Tell them about these sacrifices and explain that this is the reason that you continue to deliver that message daily as a Colonel in the CAF.

GENERAL STAFF MEETINGS
Starting on Friday November 6th we hosted Gary Austin’s funeral and began the start of the General Staff and other Board meetings. It was a good couple of days, where we looked back over the past 2 years at the progress we had made, visibility wise and financially. We also looked toward the future.

Visibility – It is obvious that CAF is coming back to the forefront in Warbird efforts, as we have been more visible in the aviation and air show world. By flying our airplanes and exhibiting through Hangar 57 we are spreading our mission better than ever. As evidenced by walking the Warbird ramp at Wings Over Houston people were seeing our CAF branded airplanes at a CAF branded event and saying WOW!! More people than ever walked up to Hangar 57 and said, “I want to join!” In the past two years, we have doubled the CAF branded merchandise sales – which means more people walking around with our airplanes and our logo on their shirts!!

We also exhibited leadership in the fight for the F-82. Although we did not ultimately win – we gained a lot of respect for taking on the Air Force and fighting for what we believe is right.

Financially - We have made great progress here. In 2007 we had an operating deficit of approximately $450k (before depreciation) In 2008; we cut that to a deficit of $235k. In 2009, we budgeted for $135k deficit (tough to do in a down economy). But at the Finance Committee meeting we presented a balanced budget for 2010. 2010 will be the first time we have operated “in the black” since 2002. It has taken a lot of work and sacrifice from the membership and the HQ Staff, but we have all worked together as a team to get to this point. Congratulations and thank you all!!

QUICK BLURBS
• Education is on the front burner, as we have hired Clay Francell to be the new Director of Education. He will be producing programs for youth, to export to units around the country. I am very excited about this new focus.
• We recruited 15 new Colonels at WOH which was great. I went head to head with Charlie Wood – he recruited 7 to my 2. He even writes JOIN THE CAF on his hand in black and then waves at everyone…I can’t compete with that!
• Speaking of Membership – The new Merry Membership drive gives you AND your new recruit a $50 gift card to the CAF Gift Shop. Now, that is a program you need to take advantage of!!!
• I am looking for new blood on some of the Committees advising the President. The Committees are: Membership, Restoration Grants, Aircraft Management and Awards. If you are interested, contact me by email or phone. sbrown@cafhq.org
You would be required to come to Midland twice a year and stay over 1 night.
INSIDE STUFF
I promised to deliver breaking news, if you tuned into this Blog….so here is some. At AIRSHO this year, while watching the reaction to the Millennium Members film we showed, you could hear a pin drop. It was very emotional and moving and I received 100% positive comments about it. While watching the reactions, it hit me – we are MISSING something very important in the CAF. Something that most organizations like ours have – and one that we need! So, I wrote up the idea and put forward a proposal to the General Staff. They were all very excited and voted unanimously to establish - The CAF Hall of Fame.

This Hall of Fame will induct CAF members, living and deceased, who made monumental contributions towards the success and worldwide impact that the CAF enjoys to this day. These inductions will be made each year at Wing Staff Conference, at a nice dinner, with a program honoring each of the inductees. I am very excited and look forward to unveiling the first Inductees, which were voted in by the Hall of Fame Selection Committee. We will reveal them next Wednesday in On the Fly – so look for it in your email or on line.

I want to thank all of our CAF veterans and veterans around the world today for your service to our country and your daily efforts to remind Americans of the sacrifice our Armed Service members have made and continue to make, to ensure our freedom. Serving in the military was the most life changing event in my life and nearly every veteran I have ever spoken to and it gives one a broader perspective on life, freedom and sacrificing for a greater good.

Remember those who have served, those who serve now and those who perished for our freedom.

As I head out of the office, I thought I would give a quick Blog update. This has been a long and tough week for a lot of people around the country, but especially here at HQ. Gary Austin’s parents arrived yesterday and are lovely people. Obviously this is the worst thing they could ever face and our hearts are with them. They are doing well though and are going through all of the painful process which comes with arrangements of this sort. We are planning a nice tribute to Gary for the memorial coming up at noon on November 6th and his parents will be in attendance.

Several of us at HQ head to Houston tomorrow for the Wings Over Houston air show. Weather is difficult at the moment, but should clear for the weekend to make for a great show. If you come, please stop by and see us at Hangar 57.

Oct. 26, 2009

I am writing with a very heavy heart, because we lost a family member today; Gary Austin. As I write this, the news is only a couple of hours old, but I am delaying putting this on the web until Tuesday morning, as Gary’s family has not been notified yet.

Although I only knew Gary for 2 years, I automatically liked him – he was outspoken, irreverent and unbelievably talented – three things that I like in a man. When I first arrived, he had just finished Ol 927, as the B29/24 Squadron Crew Chief and the pride he had in her was evident. However, always the perfectionist, he said that there was more he would have liked to have done. It wasn’t long after I arrived that there was an opening for the Director of Maintenance and he and I thought of the same candidate, at the same time – Gary.

What I loved about Gary, were the tough things for those whose airplane he was inspecting. If necessary he was willing to tell you straight up that this airplane was “grounded”. But the fact that his talent was so great and his eye so good made the tough news easier to take. No one ever debated that he was right, just disappointed that they had not spotted things first. There is no doubt that Gary improved our aircraft safety in just one year. I always had faith in Gary – if he said it needed to be grounded, it was – if he said it was OK, then I trusted him.

One of the things we shared was my airplane. When Gary took the job, he would often drive long distances to inspect a unit, or he would borrow someone’s airplane. So, I offered up my Cherokee 6-300. He would always joke that it could “carry my fat a** and all the parts too.” After I told him my nickname for the airplane, The Griswald Family Truckster - named after the station wagon in the Vacation movies - he latched onto it. He enjoyed flying it and I enjoyed seeing him fly it too. I was too busy most of the time, so he kept the old “Truckster” in flying form.

Besides being a one-in-a-million Warbird talent, I just plain liked Gary the person. Our senses of humor meshed perfectly. When CAF had a Christmas Float in the Midland parade last year, I rode with him in the cab of the truck, where we threw candy to the kids. It was classic sophomoric fun – which was right up both our alleys.

Although we disagreed now and again (he was my nemesis with the “tramp stamp”) I always enjoyed the debate and he and I could always agree to disagree – with a smile.

As Gary’s demons became harder for him to bear, he came to me and said he had to stop flying the Truckster, or any airplane – because of the thoughts going through his head. He felt that he could no longer trust his eye in spotting deficiencies in airplanes and that he was going to leave aviation as a result. I spent hours with Gary and tried, like many people, to get him help and to encourage him to seek it. But, he had experiences which left him reluctant so he continued to battle his problems alone.

My wife just saw him 4 days ago and he gave her a big hug and a smile – the wry smile that I know all of us can see when we close our eyes…and the way I will always remember him. I wish you that which you were searching for Gary and pray for you now – Peace.

Steve

If you have questions or comments e-mail Steve directly at sbrown@cafhq.org

AIRSHO already seems like a month ago….Since I hit the road running shortly after it was over. On the Tuesday after AIRSHO I went to Cincinnati. I was in the Appellate Court on Wednesday afternoon for the appeal of the decision against us in the CAF vs. USAF. In the De Novo Review, a panel of 3 Judges review the entire facts of the case which is then followed by oral arguments. The attorney’s for each side get to present 15 minutes of oral argument to the Judges. I got to see two cases go before ours and it is quite an interesting process to watch. These Judges are very smart and they kept the lawyers on their toes. In reality, the Judges let the lawyers get about 30 seconds into their presentations before they start asking questions and picking apart arguments on both sides. From watching all 3 cases, one gets a feel for which way things went. I would like to share my impressions with you, but since the Judges take 30-60 days to render their decision, I will not do so yet.

This week I went to Dallas to meet with the B-29/B-24 Squadron’s leadership to discuss the plans for “FIFI” as she nears flight, sometime in 2010. The roll out and business plan for this airplane is very important for the unit and the CAF as a whole. I am very impressed with the work that is being done on the airplane by the entire team and am very excited about the things to come.

I also got to go to the Squadron meeting, held at the Cavanaugh Museum, that evening. They had a great turnout and have had an influx of new members – many of whom came to the New Colonel Commissioning In-briefing. They were very complimentary of AIRSHO and were volunteering to help with the B-29 and B-24.

You mat not be aware, but beyond the $1.2 million it is taking to re-engine “FIFI”, there is an $850,000 debt on it, due to years of inactivity, redesign and prior engine problems – so if you can, become a sponsor to reduce that debt – I did!

Wow, what a weekend! Airsho 09 had a lot of highs, but one low - weather. CAF Colonels started arriving early and gearing up for a very exciting and busy show. Weather was a challenge from the start with many aircraft stuck at their home base or on the road. Tora made heroic efforts to get the full team out of Mississippi, but ultimately only 5 could get h

ere, with Jim Ryan-Tora Lead, arriving with just 15 minutes to spare.

Friday, our Special Show for Special People added a dimension of social action. 1100 special needs children and adults came out for an aircraft extravaganza. This year we added Junior Aces, 2000 6th graders studying WWII, which came from the local schools in the area. We received feedback from the teachers and the students were entranced- as many had never attended an air show before. It is the start of an educational element which we will continue annually at AIRSHO.

Friday afternoon the CAF Membership meeting included a Millennium Members portion. Millennium Members, or the first 1000 CAF members,for a full list of Millenium Members click here. The program began with a 15 minute film with moving scenes from our early days, all set to music. The hangar, with over 500 people, was silent as everyone was immersed in this emotional experience. Tears came to many eyes as legends from our past came back to life, flying the airplanes with which they were associated.

Following the film I introduced each of the Millennium Members that attended. Bill Coombes, Chief of Staff, took the microphone and conducted an interview where all of the legends assembled. They told entertaining stories from their past and tales of the launch of the CAF. It was an afternoon full of emotion, fun, and pride.

Saturday morning dawned to low clouds and fog - Ugh! The pilot brief included a forecast that is best described as “Gloom”. Oddly, I didn't believe it and told the pilots that the weather was going to clear - dementia? The crowds were light at 10am, but at 11am the skies lightened, the clouds started to break up and by show start time everything was ready and the show did go on! We welcomed three new people to the announcer's stand that morning. After several years of riveting announcing Ray Norton retired as our Airsho announcer. This year Larry Strain took over and the transition was seamless. Larry did a fabulous job. The second new face was Western National Bank (WNB) President / CEO Jack Wood. WNB became our exclusive Presenting Sponsor this year and really made it possible for us to afford a big show. Finally, we introduced our first Airsho Grand Marshal, Congressman Mike Conaway. Congressman Conaway is our hometown representative in Washington D.C. and a strong supporter of the CAF.

With Congressman Conaway's welcome the show was off and running! The skies were blue, the temperature mild and the crowd large as The Best Warbird Show in America commenced. The show went flawlessly and safely. Along with the flying the crowd enjoyed all of the displays in the main hanger and in the CAF square. The word from some unit PX's was that the sales on Saturday were the strongest they had ever experienced.

After the flying, Airsho was extended with the first ever CAF Retro USO Show. Entertainment from the Ladies For Liberty, the US Army Band and the Dance Connection from Odessa gave it a 1940's feel. The crowd that stayed on to enjoy this event was "standing room only" and they loved it. They stayed and ate dinner, enjoyed beverages and gave a standing ovation for our talented performers.

Sunday dawned to even cloudier skies, with fog reminiscent of London but with forecast of 1500 ft ceilings by show time. Unfortunately my belief this day was that the forecast was optimistic. This proved to be the case as the drizzle, fog and chilly winds continued throughout the day. The crowds were understandably light, but we did sell 300 tickets at the gate, plus those brave souls who had pre-purchased tickets and then came. So, again the Show Must Go On! We couldn't fly, but we did a taxi show with all the airplanes parading past the waving crowd with and then pyro lit up the damp sky. The show closed at 3PM and the soggy crowd shuffled back through the displays.

If the weather had cooperated I feel confident that we would have had a record show, as this was how it was trending. The financial impact won't be known for a month, as we collect the 7-11 ticket revenue, but there were so many positives to take, along with the "lessons learned", that I am already looking forward to next year!

AIRSHO
With less than a week to go until AIRSHO, it has been a busy Saturday of prepping the grounds. The High Sky Wing and many other local volunteers were out for the Security briefing and other work to get ready for all the events. Most of my days are spent either in the office or in the field with units. AIRSHO is the one time of year that I truly get my hands dirty on the job. I become weed-eater man! I joined VP Admin, Keith Lawrence, who gets his hands dirty a lot, and Grounds Supervisor Mark Baxter to finish up the ground prep. Last year Keith had the bad / good fortune of stumbling on to a 5 foot rattlesnake. Bad to have a shock to the heart, but good to have no one injured – save 1 rattlesnake. There was no such excitement for me this year, but my eyes were peeled.

As many of you know, there is a lot of work done by volunteers and staff to pull this AIRSHO off each year and I salute all of them! I am very excited about the show this year and feel it will be one of our best yet…for many reasons. If you haven’t decided yet, make the choice to come!

The Millennium Members symposium is shaping up to be a really neat event. 15 members of the original 1000 COLONELS are expected and we look forward to seeing some of the legends of our past. There will be a 15 minute film with clips from Mercedes days and Harlingen, where we will see CAF airplanes and humans operating “back then”. Following that, Chief of Staff Bill Coombes will lead the symposium with these members and draw forth some great stories of the past. This symposium will occur at the Membership meeting Friday – 1500hrs in the Commemorative Center Hangar. We will also conduct the Awards Ceremony and General Staff Elections; as usual.

You may have heard that we had a late entry of modern military show up – the F-18 Demo Team. We didn’t have the funds to say “yes”, until some local donors were called and they generously donated the funds necessary – Thank You Gentlemen!!! This will also allow us to have a Legacy Flight, to go along with the Cargo Heritage Flight of the C-47 and C-17. Exciting stuff!

P-82
Right after AIRSHO I head to Cincinnati to court….There will be Oral Arguments presented heard by the Appellate Court on the disposition of the P-82. Many people have asked me where things stand. To recap:

• We lost the original Court battle
• We brought a lot of political pressure to bear – which did not change the Air Force’s stance
• I met with the Air Force and attempted to reach common ground and I felt that we might find a way through this
• After that meeting we submitted a proposal to the Air Force National Museum Board of Directors. In it the CAF offered to release claims of ownership and NOT fly the airplane, as long as it remained on loan to the CAF, at our Museum in Midland. I felt very hopeful that this solution would be accepted….I was wrong
• The Air Force decided to see how the entire matter played out in the courts. My belief is that they want to see how this matter will stand up in court, so that they will have precedent to take on other private Warbird operators.
• The Air Force Museum reiterated their demand (supported by their court Judgment) to deliver the airplane to Dayton. We did so.
• We continued down the legal path with renewed vigor to win the case and regain what we believe belongs to us.
• This next hearing is from the Appellate Court and is a De Novo Review. De Novo (Latin for “anew”, “beginning again”). This means that it is a fresh new trial, with a different judge. After reading our argument and the entire case file again, I am very hopeful for a different result.

I will be there in person to hear the oral arguments and then the court should decide in 30-60 days. I will report back to you.

Well my Blogs are going to be more regular now, as the new Web Update Queen, Leah Block, is cracking the whip! “Steve, its Friday, please send me your Blog.” She says it sweetly, but she means business.

So, I went to Reno last weekend – WOW! Very cool! I saw a lot of CAFers, many of them from the West Coast…but I digress. I landed on Thursday and was met by Charlie Gillespie and Joe Gonzales, both members of the 1-year old High Sierra Squadron. Charlie is the Wing Leader and has been a great catalyst to this new unit. He purchased and donated an F-86 project, which is in beautiful shape and is a big focus. They also have a flying N3N which they are going to do work on as well – but it looks great.

From the pickup, we went to dinner, where I was greeted by a crowd of 25 members and spouses as well as members from the Central Valley Squadron (Wing? Help) and Utah Wing, at a local brewery (throw ME into the Briar Patch) where we had a fabulous dinner and great fellowship with all. It was tough to visit with everyone there, but I table hopped and enjoyed getting to know these members. There was a very positive energy surrounding these members that I really enjoyed. They are “can do” and enthusiastic about the mission at hand and the challenges they face – and they are getting it done.

The next morning, we had a member breakfast of the HS SQ at their local diner at 0700. A mixture of: beer the night before, the early morning call and the lack of a certain Marine (unnamed) to be able to tell time, resulted in a smaller crowd than usual, but we had a good time. All were ribbed by their regular waitress – who knew everyone’s name and favorite dish and she delivered both with good natured sarcasm. After devouring a huge breakfast that would have made a heart surgeon cringe, Dean and Joan Browne took me to the Reno Air Races!!!

Joan, who is a 1-woman gang, toured me through all of the areas of the show and then took me to see their aforementioned aircraft. After admiring their work, we gathered for an impromptu game of “Stump the Prez” which is my favorite part of visiting units. These sessions give members a chance to discuss their views, ask their questions and listen to the responses, directly with me. It always proves to be enlightening for all parties involved. (Especially me!)

From there, it was off to the races….well, actually for the next day and a half, I prowled the site, looked at displays and site locations and talked with CAF members. We discussed many things, but a lot of it was what should CAF’s presence be and look like, if at all, at Reno. I did not want to make that decision this year, because I had never attended and did not understand the layout and audience. I am glad I went to see the site first. I have a better feel for things and plan on one more trip to meet with RARA officials.

It was fun to see CAF members racing and winning at Reno. I was able to get a great view of the course thanks to our friends at Air Capital Insurance and CAF member Ray Dieckamn, the pilot of the Sea Fury “Sawbones”. It was thrilling to see history being made as Steve Hinton Jr. became the youngest winner of the Unlimited Gold Race in Strega! Congratualtions to Steve and his parents Steve and Karen Hinton of Planes of Fame…the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!

A special thanks to the High Sierra Squadron for hosting my 40th unit visit. I look forward to my next unit soon…but right now we are in the downhill slide to AIRSHO 2009.

RENO
I head out to Reno Air Races for the first time today. I have always wanted to go, but never had a reason prior to now. I am headed there to see what type of presence the CAF should have…What do you say? Let’s do an informal poll. Over the past 2 years I have heard several opinions, so I will put these questions / options to you. Just shoot me an email (email address is at the bottom) with your answers / comments:

• Should the CAF have national presence at the Reno Air Races? (Like Hangar 57)

• Should we have a CAF airplane participate in races, without trying to win the race, but just as a participant?

• Do you like the idea of having poll questions like this on the web on a regular basis?

I have heard opinions, both Pro and Con, on all of the first 3 of these topics, so I thought I would get a larger block of opinions.
I will also get to visit my 40th unit, when I meet with the High Sierra Squadron today and tomorrow. I am excited to see their facilities, their flying N3N and their exciting F-86 Restoration project. They are newest unit, founded by 4 CAF members and in just 1 year they have already grown to 21 members. As you can tell by their aircraft, they are running fast and jumping high – right out of the blocks. If you want to see some neat pictures of the unit, go to www.highsierrasquadron.com .
In just under 2 years with the CAF, visiting with these 40 units is the most enjoyable aspect of my job. My plan is to step things up in 2010 and get cracking on the remaining 30 units I have yet to visit.
I know we will have many members at Reno, from around the country, so I look forward to seeing all of them as I roam the site in my CAF Blue Shirt. I will report back!

I just received this email from Mike Tromm, regarding my 9/11/09 Blog and I thought you should see what they are doing for Fund Raising. -Steve

"It nice to see as to who is starting to do fundraising other than PX operations. The Third Coast Squadron started doing so 3 years ago with our patriotic series of fund raising dinners. 1st year was a patriotic motivational speech by a retired CIA spy, 2nd year the attendance expanded because the 1st one was so good and with a retired CIA husband and wife spy team. Year 3 was the Spy Plane Pilot (SR71) and all corporate sponsors have already signed up for year number 4. The economy has changed and the squadrons/wings/members who will not change will experience a negative change in their own economy. This is why we changed to expand our museum to have the set up for different visitors. Habitat for Humanity holds their annual regional luncheon/meeting at our facilities, Chamber of Commerce will host the Veterans Day event at our facilities and the list is growing. This is all something special when we are a suburb of a large town."

TRAVELING MAN
Willie Nelson’s On The Road Again should be my theme song this year!
I had a nice visit to Minnesota, where I met with the Red Tail Project Team in order to focus on the next phase, the Educational Phase of the Red Tail Project (RTP). Utilizing the theme “RISE ABOVE”, there are plans to equip a 53 foot semi-trailer to tour the country in advance of the airplane. This semi will tell the story of the Tuskegee Airmen and use the lessons of their perseverance to inspire kids to “rise above” whatever conditions and challenges they face in life. This is the perfect example of what I spoke about in the Flight Lead section of July 09 Dispatch: Using innovative delivery methods to bring lessons of the past to life in a vibrant and personally impactful manner. Well done RTP!
That evening I had a brat and sauerkraut dinner with members of the Minnesota Wing. The temperature and summer air was what you live for in that section of the country. I truly love that section of the country in the summertime. I enjoyed visiting the motor pool and its many projects, where they are putting the cadets to work! This is a great learning experience for the kids, and helpful to the Wing! We also visited about fundraising ideas.
That evening I rode back to Mason City, Iowa with Doug Rozendaal in his Rocket. If I never get to ride in an F16, this will be close enough! I have flown with him many times when I am up in that part of the world and it is always a blast. Those of you that know me, I am a helicopter and tri-cycle-gear-only pilot. You will be happy to know that I have started my journey to becoming a “real” pilot. Doug gave me one hour of instruction in his L-2 and my helicopter skills allowed me to receive passing marks from my Instructor. It was a great deal of fun and now I see what all the fuss is about.
In Iowa, I was able to chat with COL Matt Younkin, of Younkin Airshows, who was visiting. It was fun to look inside his unique Beech 18 and see how the lights are configured. Those of you who attended AIRSHO last year were able to see Matt (and his partner Kyle Franklin) perform. If you haven’t seen a Twin Beech 18 performing aerobatics, you have to catch his act. Unique in its grace, Younkin puts on one of the best shows in the air show industry, in my opinion anyway…see it if you get the chance.
The next day we “rocketed” up to Duluth to meet with Lake Superior Squadron 101. Only a year old, this SQ has progressed from 15 to 28 members. This growing unit has undertaken the daunting challenge of combining 2 “bad” PBY’s into one flying airplane. With help from their neighbor, Cirrus Aircraft, they were able to de-mate one wing and re-mate it to the other airframe. This is quite amazing and worth seeing the photos. Go to www.commemorativeairforce.org to see photos of this complicated operation. After seeing the aircraft and touring their extensive museum, we had a nice cookout and pot luck dinner at the hangar. As we departed back to Minneapolis, I reflected upon what a difference a year makes! A provisional unit formed a year ago, with a long-shot vision has evolved into a growing unit, which has accomplished so much into making this vision a real possibility!
FINANCIAL FOLLIES
Units around the country are feeling the pinch in today’s economy, as is HQ. Many have pointed the finger Midland’s way due to the increase in ANUAC. Guilty as Charged. I will take the hit for this, but what must be understood is that the CAF cannot continue to add airplanes and units without the infrastructure necessary to maintain it. When we were in Harlingen, with 40 less airplanes, we had a paid staff of 40 to manage the organization. Now, with 74 units and 160 airplanes, the number of paid staff is 20. For the past 7 years, we have been operating the company in a deficit, however no corrective action was made and the debt grew as a result. We had to turn the tide and we had to do so quickly. Therefore ANUAC and membership dues (which had not increased in 20 years) had to be raised. I know that some still do not understand what HQ does, but 2 years ago, at Wing Staff Conference, I showed a presentation which listed the Financial, Operational, Mechanical and Membership Relations management activities that these 20 staff members perform. Let me tell you personally, these Staff members do an amazing amount of tasks necessary to keep us legal and fulfilling our requirements to the units and members. Add to that the extra duty of managing an annual world class AIRSHO and other local fundraising activities. Therefore, if we are going to keep the CAF operating, we had to increase these fees.
So how can a unit survive and thrive, with these increased costs and the tough economy? As we are doing in Midland, we all have to look outside of the “usual suspects” of fundraising activities that we have leaned upon over the past many years. Air shows and PX sales are now only one component in our fundraising. Other activities must be explored. Looking around the country, units have found new ways:

• Highland Lakes Sq: They buy a Harley Davidson motorcycle each year and trailer the bike to many local and regional events throughout the year and raffle it off. The proceeds are a major component for their budget

• HQ: Started the 1st annual Hops and Props – They got the local beer distributor to supply the beer at no cost. HQ hired caterer and band, promoted the event and had a great turnout. They also collected many local prizes and had a fabulous silent auction.

• Heart of America Wing – Instead of an air show, and the expenses associated, they held an Open House, where they invited local aviators to come (no gas provided). They had their planes on display, Kids activities and the VFW band. They sold many rides in 2 PT birds and had a great turnout – even with a Sunday morning rainy start.

• Lobo Wing: They hold an annual themed dinner, where they decorate the hangar, put on a 30 minute skit / play that they wrote themselves, commemorating or honoring a unit from the past (this year was the 8th Air Force). They conduct several unique instant and silent auctions – have members dressed as historic figures….and have a first class dinner.
• Arizona Wing: Held their 26th Hangar dance at their hangar, drawing 1500 people. Big Band, costume contest, dinner, drinks and dancing…a big hit.

• So Cal Wing: Held their 1st annual golf tournament. About to hold their 1st annual Wine and Wings – a wine tasting featuring local wineries and food, all surrounded by their aircraft and museum.

• Minnesota Wing / CAF HQ: Strong promotion of facilities as a rental destination for local companies and individuals to hold their events, weddings, parties, etc. Here is how to jump start this for your facilities - Host a Chamber of Commerce meeting at your facility and serve them free food and soft drinks (cash bar) so that local business leaders can see your facilities and think, “WOW! I have never been here and this would be a great location for my company party.

This has been a first year hit for the new Commemorative Center here in Midland and without these rental events; CAF would not be able to afford the insurance and utilities in this massive building.
These are only a few examples of unique ways that your unit can survive and thrive. I have heard some complaints from the field saying, “It is tough out here!” Well, it is…but have you really dug in and tried new things? The Florida Wing was ready to fold 6 months ago, but then they decided to try something new and not slip quietly below the surface. NOW, they are on there way back and expect to keep moving forward. Way to go Florida!!!!
What are you doing, outside of the same old things?

I recently received a call from Dell Cannon, the Squadron Leader of the Cactus Squadron. She was distressed to learn that some members were attempting to renegotiate their hangar lease out of the CAF name and into another organization's name. Keith Lawrence and I mounted my trusty Griswald Truckster and Keith took his second "small" airplane flight to Graham, Texas. We met with the City Manager and Mayor. We reaffirmed the CAF's desire and intention to extend the nearly 30 year continuous hangar lease. We then met with some of the Cactus Squadron's dissenting members and listened to their concerns, but expressed our strong stance regarding their actions.

The main challenge facing this unit and various others is the unit's lack of focus. This unit has steadily declined since the move of the SB2C. The SB2C had to move for good reasons; however the unit lost it's rally point and did not replace it (with an airplane).

All of our units must have a rally point to gain new member that eventually replace those member's that fade away. An airplane project to restore, repair and/or ultimately fly is the trademark of success and growth for units. Without that, as evidenced by the Cactus Squadron, the unit struggles and membership declines.

Airplanes are the honey that attracts new worker bees to work on and fly the planes. Recent examples of this hypothesis are the Wisconsin Wing and Old Dominion Squadron, both of whom rebounded with newly aquired aircraft. Both units saw a spike in new members and invigorated existing members.

So if your membership is flagging check your focus and see if you need something added to it.

Finally, a moment to update the Blog, after being out of the office for 3 weeks. After OSH, I went to VA to celebrate my mother's 70th birthday and then jumped into my plane to rescue Cadet Brown from his hay tractor on the plains of Nebraska, where he had been for nearly a month...now, 500 emails later; I can take a moment to tap out a few thoughts.

Many of you followed the AirVenture updates and I appreciate your positive comments. You cannot imagine the impact that CAF made there - and the pride that our members felt. With Blue shirts in force, multiple locations on the grounds and significant airplanes in the air - the Commemorative Air Force and our Mission is being noticed. I really appreciate the great working relationships that we have developed with the EAA, WOA, and all of our volunteers at AirVenture. They were great to work with and I feel the CAF brought real value to the premier aviation gathering in the world - the essence of a good relationship is one where everyone gains and this id certainly the case.

All members have now received the latest letter, regarding the One and Done Program. I have my pin on...have you earned yours?! In this economy membership and all non-profit fund raising is down, so I need and WE need all the help we can get - so go convince your friends and neighbors that they need to join!

From this keyboard, I am hopping into the CAF logo'd Griswold Family Truckster (Cherokee-6) and heading to the Great Plains Wing, (home of P-51 Gunfighter) for my first visit there. I am looking forward to attending their Wing meeting tomorrow. I get to spend a lot of time with Lumpy Lumpkin, at air shows, but now I will get to meet the manpower behind this fabulous and famous CAF airplane.

Preparations for AIRSHO are in high gear and this is not one to miss! We have lots of cool airplanes, modern military (C-17, B52, B!, F-16), unique one-of-a-kind warbirds, Warbird Acro, and a bigger Vietnam segment - along with a full TORA show. I am also hopeful that we will have the largest "homecoming" of CAF airplanes in years. We are putting out our best possible fuel allocation to make this possible.

On top of that will be a fun evening Saturday with the CAF Retro USO Show - great entertainment from the past along with good food and drink. We also plan some special aircraft displays, with our 4 Oshkosh winners. Many of the remaining 74 Millennium Member (the first 1000 CAF members) will be in attendance for a special program on Friday at the membership meeting. So mark your calendar, make your reservations and come to the best Warbird Show in America - never truer than this year!

Heart of America Air Expo
To pick up the last thread I left you with, I went from Tarkio Mo., onto Heart of America Wing, to catch the end of the first and the second day of their AIR EXPO. This is their annual fund-raiser and in years past has had some larger “guest” airplanes attend, including B-17’s, B-24, and P-51 etc. This year, in the uncertain economy, they pulled back their expenses and just performed the expo with their Wing and member owned aircraft, along with some airplanes that decided to come and display for donations.

When I arrived, Steve Zimmerman was just taking to the air again with another paid rider in their PT-19. Steve and their other pilots had flown a total of 30 rides that day! That was good fund-raising! Their local tower was very accommodating to their rides and the racetrack patterns of the L birds and others – for the enjoyment of the crowd. As the Saturday wound down, the weather and crowds had made it a perfect first day.

After the clean up and hangar rodeo, many of the members and guests adjourned to the air conditioned comfort of the HOA’s meeting room upstairs. They had recently finished remodeling and expanding and it looks fabulous. HOA has been very diligent in their branding efforts and signage in and around their building – that along with their beautifully displayed Museum artifacts, makes the place first rate.

The Mexican feast that they had prepared was also first rate and was complimented by the best Margarita’s I have had, short of Cantina Laredo. Since I am comparing, you might guess that I am a Margarita fan – and that is true. The trick now was to get the recipe! The Mixtress of these concoctions was none other than my pal Kim Pardon. If you haven’t met Kim, she is the second half of the Kim and Phil Pardon Show. The husband and wife CAF Colonels who have “his and her” airplanes. Phil owns and flies a BT-13 and Kim owns and flies an L-19 Bird Dog. (I flew with Kim that afternoon and she does a great job.) I call it the Kim and Phil Pardon Show because they are both characters and great fun to be around - get to know them if you see them around Oshkosh or AIRSHO. So, all of us enjoyed a great evening of poking fun and telling stories. The next morning dawned to rain, which put a damper on the event to start, but along about 10 a.m. things started to clear and people started to arrive. PX sales were brisk and they had the local American Legion Band playing wonderful songs in the hangar. A great family gathering and a successful and profitable event.

Kim Pardon’s KYN Margaritas
One 12 oz. can of frozen limeade
One 12 oz. can of tequila
One 12 oz. can of Sprite/7-Up
One 12 oz. beer

Promoting the CAF
After returning home that night, I got up the next morning and loaded up my son, Austin, into the CAF branded Cherokee Six (affectionately referred to as The Griswald Family Truckster) and headed to Nebraska where I dropped him off for a month of hard labor haying and playing with cattle. It felt good to be back in the air again, after months being earthbound. An interesting note – I landed in Dalhart, Texas for fuel and saw a “Join the Air Force You Never Heard Of” poster hanging, along with a holder containing CAF Membership brochures. The sticker on the back indicated that the Dew Line Squadron (located in Amarillo, Texas) had placed these promo materials there – good job Dew Line! That has prompted me to start carrying these posters and brochures in my airplane – to spread them like Johnny Appleseed at each airport where I land for fuel. If we all did this by car or plane, the CAF could be represented in every FBO around the country!

The Passing of Class - Emyre Barrios Robinson
A sad event occurred today – not unlike it occurs every day – we lost a member. This one was a lady who had made a dramatic impact upon me in the very short time I knew her. Emyre Barrios Robinson passed away yesterday at age 86. Although I don’t know all of the details, I know that she founded Barrios Technology as an Aerospace Engineering Services Company in 1980 and grew it to become a substantial business, with clients including: NASA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Grumman - etc. A few year ago she sold the company and according to their website, it is still “woman owned.” The company gives an annual award out each year to an employee, called the EMY - the annual award recognizes an employee who contributed beyond the workplace to serve the community. I think that says a lot about her.

I got to meet “Emy” about 7 months as I joined the Wings Over Houston Executive Council. She was a petite lady who was with Charles Hutchins as they picked me up from the airport to drive to the meetings. Our usual carpool included Emy, Charles, Larry Gregory, Ralph Royce and I – a fun group. I knew everyone with the exception of Emy, but with each monthly meeting and carpool to and from the meeting, I got to know this amazing lady better. She had accomplished so many things and contributed so much time and resources in her community – she was an inspiration. I saw her just a few short weeks ago and as she hugged me goodbye, she told me she was going on an African Safari. Maybe 5 feet tall and 86 years old, heading on a safari!!! And I wasn’t surprised….

Emy didn’t quite get to the safari, as she was injured in a freak auto accident– but was joking with the crowd that had gathered, as she was taken to the hospital. She passed away during surgery, but I will remember that she was full of good cheer to the very end – God Bless Emy.

Steve

As I type this on my BlackBerry, I am in the back of Tora 101, owned and flown by Doug Jackson and en-route from Tarkio, Mo., to New Century airport in Kansas City, Kan. That destination is the home of the Heart of America Wing and where I will enjoy the 2nd day of their Open House weekend.

But let me explain how I came to be in the back of a Zero in Mo. On Thursday afternoon at 1 p.m., I had loaded up my Piper Cherokee 6 with bags and CAF cadet Austin Brown, my 16-year-old son. We were both excited to be going on an air trip together, as we hadn't had an aviation adventure in a while, just father and son hitting the airways to new and "exotic" destinations. Our first stop was to be the Tarkio Fly-In. I was a featured speaker, along with some other aviation associations Presidents: Craig Fuller-AOPA, Tom Poberezny-EAA, Pete Bunce-GAMA and Ed Bolen-NBAA. Now you might ask, what is in Tarkio, which would result in this collection of aviation alphabet soup? Congessman Sam Graves is the answer. Sam and his cast of flying wing nuts held their 6th Annual Fly-in and we all want to support Sam as much as he has supported aviation. Since Doug Rozendaal first introduced us, Sam and I have kept in contact and he has been a special friend to the CAF. Although we don't have the membership base that AOPA and EAA do, Sam has recognized how important we are to aviation through our efforts to preserve warbirds. Therefore, he has graciously invited us to the table in Washington, allowing me to elevate our unique concerns. Sam is an advocate for all of aviation, but owns a Steerman and just bought a BT-13 so we see where his heart is! Anyway, when Sam calls, we all rally for the opportunity to say thanks in some small way and also to speak to the serious aviation crowd that gathers.

So, Austin and I loaded up and took off, everything looked good. As I leveled off at 7,500, I did my instrument check only to find the Amp meter reading Zero. Ugh! I checked the fuses, cycled different switches to put a load on, but nothing. So I reluctantly turned back on landed at Odessa. Long story short, CAF Cols Bob Keating and Lance Sommers determined it was the voltage regulator, which had failed. So, it was off to Kansas City via Southwest Airlines. I bid my frowning son goodbye and made it to KC International where Doug Rozendaal picked me up in his F1 Rocket – the name is reflective and flew us both on to Tarkio, Mo. He also delivered the tragic news that air show performer Chandy Clanton had been killed at practice just 3 hours previously. So, we arrived to a very subdued and somber setting.

That evening I got to spend a good amount of time, with new AOPA President Craig Fuller, a very nice and open gentleman. I enjoyed dinner and good conversation learning about Craig personally as well as discussions about potential future collaborations between CAF and AOPA. Craig invited me to attend AOPA Expo in November in Tampa and we will explore how else the CAF and AOPA can collaborate.

The Town Hall meeting on Saturday morning went well with 5-minute speeches by all, followed by questions from the floor. I focused my remarks upon the mission of the CAF and the monetary and governmental challenges we face to keep our warbirds flying along our role in educating Americans as to the role these aircraft played in securing the freedoms we enjoy today.

Gunfighter was there piloted by Larry Lumpkin and wonderfully supported by the Great Plains Wing crewmembers. I was happy to have them there, flying our colors and performing in the air show, along with selling historical flight experiences.

At the end of the day, I felt we had plowed some significant ground in new relationships for the CAF, as well supporting Congressman Graves who is supporting the important issues for the CAF.

As the day came to a close I hopped in Doug's replica Zero and headed out to the Heart of America Wing, for the 2nd day of their Air Expo, which I will tell you about next time!

Steve

As we head into the 4th of July weekend, I am reflective of how fortunate we are to live in the United States of America. This past year I have read several books on the Revolutionary War time period: 1776, John Adams, Washington and Arnold - and it is staggering at how brave our Founding Fathers were. And how insightful that they could construct a document such as the Constitution, which has guided our country for so many years and through such a dramatic evolution of technology...yet it still remains the best governing document ever produced.

In the past week I started reading "Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln." It is quite a large book, but extremely readable. Again I am struck by the fortitude of this man who guided our country through such a terrible ordeal - and yet the Untied States emerged united and better prepared for the threats that came next.

After that, our country weathered two world wars, Korea and Vietnam, and now we are experiencing an economic threat, as well as terrorist threats and a war in the Middle East.... making us exclaim, "Oh my, how terrible things are!" But when you go back through history you find that, since the beginning, Americans have held strong and fought through countless challenges, as we will surely fight through these.

So, as July 4th rolls around, lets remember all of the heroes of our past and take a moment to share your knowledge with your children and grandchildren. As members of the CAF, we consistently honor American military aviation, as we should. But, as an American citizen, also please take the time to remember those who founded and shaped this great land of ours, so many years ago.

Steve

…cue Willie Nelson! - ”On the road again….”

Friday I boarded Southwest Airlines to head to Austin. (Sad to say that the CAF branded Cherokee –Six has been in the shop for 6 weeks getting leaky fuel tanks repaired – I am having withdrawls!) In Austin I met with Vern Rooze, Clif Walker and Richard Harris. It was a good meeting where we got to discuss fund raising, community relations and future planning.

Thinking ahead is something that all CAF Unit staffs should do on a regular basis. It is easy to focus on the day to day and week to week. Next thing you know, you look up to find that your lease is running out, your funds are running low, or your membership is no longer engaged. Looking ahead and determining your long term plan is crucial. Often times a good exercise to perform is the SWOT diagram. List the 4 categories of your unit: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. Listing those things out is important to help a unit decide what is should do next.

On Saturday morning Bob Stenevik and I met with the Devil Dog Squadron leadership and members in Georgetown, Texas. The Dog had returned the day before from Midland, where it had undergone substantial maintenance, under the guidance of unit Maintenance Officer Bill Goeken, for many months. It was issued a ferry permit and there is one more item to be finished up before it is ready for inspection from the FAA. The Squadron has hopes to have the Dog at Oshkosh for AirVenture 2009. The Squadron has been dealing with some issues over the past year, but the new slate of officers, have done a great job sorting through the issues and getting the “Dog” back on track.

A key thing that came out of this meeting, which I feel should be communicated, was the fear that Devil Dog was going to be “reassigned” to another location, by HQ. This is not the case and I thought communicating our process in situations such as this might be helpful. HQ doesn’t arbitrarily “reassign” aircraft. I have heard many variations of this rumor, but none of them are true. Airplanes that are currently up for reassignment have been placed there by the units themselves. Different factors cause this to happen including funding issues, or loss of motivation by the membership. HQ’s goal is first and foremost to assist the unit, such that they can do what is necessary to operate their aircraft and their unit successfully. That is why we go into the field to meet with the unit leadership and see if we can give advice or facilitate better understanding between members who may be cross-ways. This has worked out to be the case – sometimes we just need an additional perspective from the outside.

So, the Devil Dog remains assigned to the Devil Dog Squadron.

Steve

A busy weekend occurred last weekend, as I rolled out the CAF 10 Year Vision to a gathering of all 4 Corporate Boards. This Vision points the way towards a path of sustainability for the CAF and additionally – Increased Visibility and Impact.

It is impossible for me to explain the details in this BLOG, but it revolves around units banding together and increasing their resources and presence – rather than units splitting up. This has been the trend over the years – units splintering, often due to personality conflicts. This is not good business rationale and has resulted in smaller units, which struggle with manpower and monetary support.

Combining resources is possible in some areas and not possible in others, but it is something all units should voluntarily explore – it just makes sense.

Some areas may be able to support a larger organizational structure than a Squadron or a Wing. Those areas may be able to support an “AIR BASE”. This type of unit would have to meet 9 very stiff criteria. Meeting those criteria would guarantee the increased presence of CAF in its host city. Having 6-10 of these Air Bases would similarly increase the presence, relevance and impact of the CAF – nationwide. Our goal is to move forward and identify a unit that chooses to become an Air Base and move forward with them as a prototype for this concept. Then take the lessons learned and move on to other areas who want to make this next leap in evolution.

The reaction from all who attended the weekends’ meetings was very positive – however it is aggressive and a large mountain to tackle. But a big vision takes a big reach.

Additionally, the Flying Museum, like the Foundation, voted to make me its CEO. Three out of the four corporations, that are commonly referred to as the CAF, have chosen me as their common CEO. This alignment will make it easier to keep us all headed in the same direction. I am hopeful that the Museum will see fit to join, behind one leader, in the near future.

Of even greater importance was the CAF General Staff completing a 14 month process of Policy Board Governance. In a nutshell, this allows the Board to do its job of setting the course for the CAF, through something called Ends Statements and enabling the HQ Staff to determine the Means to accomplish those Ends.

Chief Of Staff Bill Coombes is going to write an in-depth article about this, but the CAF Ends Statement is: The mission of the CAF is education, such that the generations of Americans will value and support the contributions of military aviation, assuring our nation’s freedom.

So, it is this Ends statement which should guide all of our actions (Means). If what we are doing is not related to accomplishing the Ends Statement above, then we need to re-think and adjust what we ARE doing. Do our Means justify, or lead to, accomplishing our Ends?

This may sound simple to you, but it is very important. So look at what you and your unit are doing and make sure that we are all on the right track.