Greetings 78ers…

Unfortunately I need to begin this quarter as we did the last one with the sad loss of another classmate. Rob Watts passed unexpectantly on 9 June at his home in Chandler AZ. His funeral was on 15 Jun at Bueler Chandler Mortuary with internment at Valley of the Sun Cemetery. The Mortuary published a very nice obituary (http://buelermortuary.com/robert-michael-watts/ ) that included a couple of pictures including the one below by his airplane. Rob had started several aircraft related business as well as keeping his hand in flying. His bride Elizabeth is at 4350 W Earhart Way; Chandler, AZ 85226-4729 and would appreciate any condolences.

By the time this is received, registration will be closed for the reunion in September. Bees Kellenbence and crew have truly been working overtime to make this indeed a memorable event. Looking forward to seeing everyone there. I’ll submit a recap article (more text and pics than normally is allowed) for the December Checkpoints and most likely, as in past years, have more info for the March ’19 article. 

I didn’t receive any news/inputs this quarter so am making good on my long standing threat. You won’t have to suffer through seeing my mug but my bride put together the collage below. On the left is yours truly trying to refuel the mighty Rhino over the Pacific in the early 90’s as I was delivering a jet from Clark to March air patches. On the right is my son doing the same during his F-15E B course a couple of months ago. He’s now in his first ops squadron at Mountain Home in the T-Bolts (389^th FS) and I’ll continue to live my life vicariously through him. Am most proud of how well he did at Sheppard in UPT and while he was in Mudhen initial training.

That wraps it up for this edition. I hope everyone had a blessed Summer and am looking forward to the big 40.

God bless

’78 IS GREAT!