FREEZIN’S THE REASON. For us it was a chance to see my nephew Lt. Col. Mike and his family. We had met Amy only once, at their wedding and had yet to set eyes on their kiddies, David and Katie. The FamCamp at the Air Force base didn’t come close to the standards of other military campgrounds so we set up housekeeping at the nearby Roughrider RV resort.
Lt. Col. Mike, David, Katie and Amy
The Fourth of July on a remote Air Force base had very much the same flavor as in a small town back in the 60s. Military folks are close by nature and much of the same age. Nearly all have kids and the entire community shares in parenting chores.
Going to Daddy's office
Mike recently assumed command of a B52 squadron and Amy, who seems to revel in the role of den mother, invited the entire squadron for a pre-4th barbecue. But first Mike had arranged a visit the flight line, the first time many of the spouses and kids had seen their husbands flying “offices.” Mike’s particular B52 was commissioned in 1962 — back when his father was in grammar school. And though I’ve been bragging on my nephew, flying one of these 8-engine beasts is anything but glamorous. With missions lasting up to 36 hours (thanks to in-air refueling) being crammed into the tiny cockpit is cruel and unusual punishment.
Still flying! B52s at Minot AFB
On the 4th proper we took the kids to the zoo, or rather they took us. Precocious David assumed the role of tour guide while Katie mooned over this and that, especially the zebras. Then we returned to the base for another barbecue and fair with more kids than I’ve seen in ages.
Katie and David jumpin' for joy
