The White Falcon


The White Falcon - 14.01.1994, Blaðsíða 6

The White Falcon - 14.01.1994, Blaðsíða 6
In the spotlight: 932 ACS Surveyors of the Icelandic skies Making the best of life in Rockville Situated about five miles west of NAS Keflavfk, the unassuming, yet highly important complex known as Rockville is home base for approximately 180 Air Force members assigned to the 932nd Air Control Squadron (932 ACS). For nearly 42 years, the 932nd has played an integral part in the air defense of Iceland. The squadron is responsible for detecting, tracking, and identifying all aircraft entering what’s known as the Military Air Defense IdentificationZone, an area reaching to Greenland on the west and half-way to Norway on the Diners enjoy a east. When necessary, the squadron also directs F-15 fighters to intercept aircraft that may pose a threat to Iceland. Although the 932nd plays a major role in the defense of Iceland, many people at NAS Keflavfk have no idea what goes on at Rockville, who is there or even where it’s located. “Sometimes we feel like a forgotten part of the Air Force out here,” remarked Tech. Sgt. Marvin Tisdall, the MWR coordinator for Rockville. “We’re not abandoned, but we don’t get a lot of publicity, even though we’re such an integral part of Air Force operations.” Comprised of just over 30 buildings, the five acre complex stretches about six football fields in length and four football fields in width. Although small, the Rockville site is self-sufficient. “I’m like a mayor of a small town,” noted 932 ACS commander Lt. Col. Clark Wigley. “We have our own post office, fire department, theater, gym, club, eating facility and even a small exchange.” Wigley was quick to point out, though, that the Rockville community is still closely tied to NAS Keflavfk. “We’re part of the 35th Wing,” said Wigley. “There are a bunch of good folks out here who are a living, breathing exten- sion of the Keflavfk community. Many of our people are the backbone for numerous programs at the main base, ranging from youth sports to chapel sponsored activities.” According to Wigley, life at Rockville has many advan- tages, but also some drawbacks. “The close friendships developed will never be equalled anywhere else, but just like in a small community, sometimes the strengths also lead to weaknesses,” said Wigley. “Because everyone knows each other, nothing remains hidden. Gossip and rumors tend to spread quickly.” Additionally, Wigley noted that the issue of transporta- tion is a concern at times. Nearly 60 percent of those as- signed to Rockville are single or unaccompanied and live in the barracks. Because Air Force members in that status are here for only one year, they are not allowed to bring their vehicles. Hence, transportation can be very limited meal at the Northern Lights dining facility. The Rockville gym draws many patrons every day. and sometimes those living in Rockville are left feeling isolated. “Despite some of the drawbacks, Rockville personnel enjoy being here,” said Tisdall. “Many have been here before and have come back. Because we’re so small and isolated, we’re like a family, so we tiy to take care of our people.” In explaining how they take care of their people, Tisdall referenced the fact that the Rockville MWR had at least 21 different outings planned for its personnel for the upcoming two months. According to Tisdall and others, life at Rockville is what you make of it. Stories and ph^^^ ,102 Carlos •ers of the 932nd ACS monitor the main k?r.s at the Iceland Regional Operations fl Center. Above, the "golf ball" is a dis- tinctive landmark at Rockville. Who’s the best scope? For the past two weeks, the 932nd Air Control Squadron (932 ACS) has been in- volved in its annual Top Rock competition. The competition is designed to test the squadron’s ability to integrate all air surveil- lance information, as a computer generates different simulated air attack scenarios. When the contest wraps-up next week, the squadron will select its top operations personnel to represent them in the North American Aerospace Defense Command competition known as Top Scope. Last year, the 932nd took first place in the Top Scope competition and are expected to do as well this year. “I’ve never worked with a better group of technicians,” stated Capt. Ralph McHenry, the operations train- ing officer for the 932 ACS. Rockville on Rush What do you think about AFRTS airing the Rush Limbaugh show? “I like the fact it's a different view point from the regular news. I prefer the news analysis rather than just the news.” Lt. Matthew Webb “I don’t like listening to him. He’s a dreamer.” Tech. Sgt. Floyd Cooper “As an American, I like to hear the full range of oppinions and draw my own con- clusions. I’m infavor of the show.” Master Sgt. William Hallwachs 6 The White Falcon January 14,1994 7

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