Why did you join the team:
I wanted to pass on to others everything that I was given and allow them to enjoy one of the coolest experiences available at the academy.
Biggest Fear:
Snakes and Heights
Favorite Jump:
Spring Break jumping out of the Sherpa at Cape Canaveral while the Space Shuttle sat on the launch pad!
Why you enjoy jumping:
Cause it’s an awesome experience, but most of all I enjoy being with the team.
Outside Jumping:
Snowboarding, surfing, body boarding, skim boarding, art, music
Tom Lerum
Academic Major:
Systems Engineering Management
USAFA Squadron:
CS-32 “RoadRunners”
Hometown:
San Diego, CA
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Instructor/ Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
Piano
Fun Fact:
I am an Ocean Lifeguard back home in San Diego.
Why did you join the team:
To be apart of something bigger than myself, and to share what I love doing with others.
Biggest Fear:
Losing someone I love.
Favorite Jump:
Sunset jump next to Longs Peak in Longmont, CO.
Why you enjoy jumping:
Because it is thrilling and I get to enjoy it with my best friends.
Outside Jumping:
Outside of jumping I love to surf, SCUBA dive, snowboard and travel.
Kyle Land
Academic Major:
Behavioral Sciences and Leadership (Pre-Med concentration)
USAFA Squadron:
CS-16 “Proud Chickenhawks”
Hometown:
Crown Point, IN
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster / Instructor / Competition Team: 4-Way Tail
Special Talent:
I can run faster and farther than anyone alive. Unfortunately, I have severe narcolepsy so I can never stay awake long enough to finish a race and cash in on my skills.
Fun Fact:
After I graduate from USAFA, I want to attend dental school.
Why did you join the team:
I joined the Wings of Blue because it is without a doubt the best program at the Air Force Academy. As PTWOBs, we instruct hundreds of basic freefall students every year, compete in collegiate and national skydiving competitions, and represent the Academy and the Air Force in demonstrations all over the world.
Biggest Fear:
Looking back on my life and wishing I would’ve done more.
Favorite Jump:
The class of 2013′s two plane 23-way attempts over Marana, AZ during spring break.
Why you enjoy jumping:
My favorite part about jumping is the competition of 4-way. The members of my 4-way team are some of my best friends, and there’s no better feeling than constantly being challenged and getting the opportunity to jump with them and see the progress that we’re making with each skydive.
Outside Jumping:
Hiking, snowboarding, weightlifting, and nerding it up in the library
Casey Habluetzel
Academic Major:
Civil Engineering
USAFA Squadron:
CS-32 “RoadRunners”
Hometown:
Olathe, Kansas
Team Position/Job:
Competition Team: Freefly
Special Talent:
I can bench press my girlfriend 20 times and solve a rubik’s cube in under 2 minutes. Not at the same time though.
Fun Fact:
I am on the Air Force Academy Boxing team.
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to join the team because I saw that the Wings of Blue was an amazing group of people who got to share the joy of teaching others to overcome their fear of getting out of a plane at 4500 feet.
Biggest Fear:
Failure.
Favorite Jump:
Any Freefly jump
Why you enjoy jumping:
I enjoy jumping because it is incredibly difficult. There is always something to get better at.
Outside Jumping:
Outside of jumping I lift weights, box and try to relax every once in a while.
Richie Brennan
Academic Major:
Operations Research
USAFA Squadron:
CS-27 “Thunderbirds”
Hometown:
Chicago, IL
Team Position/Job:
Demonstration Team/Demo Team Commander
Special Talent:
The ability to rally people to go out and have a great time!
Fun Fact:
Why did you join the team:
I joined the team because of the family I witnessed during my 490 class. 25 people together doing what they loved with the people they care about the most. Once I saw that, I said to myself, “I need to be a part of that!” After being on the team, I realize that I might be one of the luckiest people in the world.
Biggest Fear:
Disappointing my friends and family
Favorite Jump:
3-way night jump
Why you enjoy jumping:
It gives me the confidence to go out and try exciting new things in life that I was once scared to do. I enjoy jumping on the team because I get to do it with my closest friends and now it is actually a great way to release some stress.
Outside Jumping:
Snowboarding, rock climbing, hiking, basketball, baseball, and anything that promotes competition
Ben Barringer
Academic Major:
Bio
USAFA Squadron:
CS-38 All Stars
Hometown:
Monument, CO
Team Position/Job:
Four way comp
Special Talent:
I can drink 7/8 of a gallon of whole milk. Chua can drink 9/8.
Fun Fact:
I was on the winning team for the worlds largest dodgeball game
Why did you join the team:
I idolized my element leader and wanted to learn how to lead like he did
Biggest Fear:
Anything with two wheels
Favorite Jump:
The first four way jump of the Collegiate competetion. I have never learned so much in one jump
Why you enjoy jumping:
I’m with my best buddies. Plus the “whoooosh” and the “Vrrrrrm” and the “Pssssss” noises you hear when you jump out
Outside Jumping:
Finding shiny rocks, fishing, eating, not exercising, and chess.
Mitch “Aem” Agee
Academic Major:
Astro
USAFA Squadron:
CS-01 Mach One
Hometown:
Fleming Island, FL
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/Instructor; 2-way freefly competition team
Special Talent:
Guitar Hero (not real guitar) and I’m a human jukebox (but I’m a terrible singer)
Fun Fact:
My entire family (mother/father/sister) are graduates of USAFA and AM-490
Why did you join the team:
Definitely to be a jumpmaster for AM-490. If you are willing to drop the cash you can go skydive anywhere but only here do you get to be an integral part of the world’s only solo freefall program for Jump #1. My experience in AM-490 was unlike anything I had ever done and I wanted to share that with others.
Biggest Fear:
Not making the most of my life
Favorite Jump:
2-plane big way attempts we did over Spring Break 2011. Meeting up with your friends that jumped out of a different airplane in the air was absolutely unreal.
Why you enjoy jumping:
Freefall is such a unique and exhilirating environment it would be fun alone but sharing the experience with your best friends makes it even better.
Outside Jumping:
I enjoy snowboarding, wakeboarding, video games, movies, and chilling with friends.
Michael “OD” O’Donnell
Academic Major:
Mechanical Engineering
USAFA Squadron:
CS-04 Fightin’ Fourth
Hometown:
Syracuse, NY
Team Position/Job:
Team Commander/ Demonstration Team/ Jumpmaster
Special Talent:
Being a DJ for 97.7 – USAFA’s number one hit radio station
Fun Fact:
I have two older brothers who are both proud enlisted members of the Air Force
Why did you join the team:
Wanted to be part of something bigger than myself
Biggest Fear:
Letting others down… and spiders
Favorite Jump:
First time jumping for other people. Me and Big Rich rolling into the Colorado Springs Airshow- Got to jump out of a C-17 twice!
Why you enjoy jumping:
The relationship gained from having absolute trust in my brothers and sisters on the team and the rush and excitement demonstrating offers. All that and the look on a students face as they exit the aircraft for the first time!
Outside Jumping:
I enjoy religiously following Syracuse College Basketball and Atlanta Braves Baseball, running, spongebobin, discovering and promoting new music, and watching movies.
Gabby Quirao
Academic Major:
Biology
USAFA Squadron:
CS-32 “RoadRunners”
Hometown:
Colorado Springs, CO
Team Position/Job:
Demo
Special Talent:
Surviving rough falls. Oh and Karaoke… it’s kinda in my blood
Fun Fact:
I used to compete as a sprinter in track and field for the Air Force Academy, but then I decided that jumping out of planes was exponentially more fun than running in circles.
Why did you join the team:
I admired the team camaraderie. I also wanted to help people succeed and face their fears by teaching them/jump mastering during AM 490. Letting people out of the plane for their first solo jump and them landing safely is one of the best feelings in the world.
Biggest Fear:
Disappointing people. Deep water kinda scares me a lot too.
Favorite Jump:
Springs break jumps with the people I love.
Why you enjoy jumping:
The team is like a family, and they are what makes each jump amazing. Also, the rush of jumping out of a perfectly good airplane never gets old.
Outside Jumping:
I am shooting for nurse practitioner for a career. I love snowboarding, running, swimming, cooking, sleeping,shopping, and movie watching. Oh and I also love Harry Potter… The series, not the character.
Joshua Moore
Academic Major:
Aeronautical engineering
USAFA Squadron:
CS-13 “Fightin’ Bulldawgs”
Hometown:
Denton, Tx
Team Position/Job:
Jump master Competition Team: Freefly
Special Talent:
carpentry and wood working
Fun Fact:
First one to console John O’neil at the loss of his girlfriend; also the first to spot his growing signs of personal instability. I love you bro! We’ll get through this together
Why did you join the team:
I joined the team because I was blessed enough to get a shot at what so many others deserved too, the chance to become a part of a team that is closer and more focused than any other I have seen in my life. We have been given a chance to teach and shape people, a chance to see people grow as they teach us, and a chance to face challenges and adventures with our closest friends every day in incredible new ways. I’m still floored daily.
Biggest Fear:
The B-52 practice demo… it knows what it did. In all seriousnous, letting down my family and those closest to me.
Favorite Jump:
Jumping into a baseball field for a bunch of children,
Why you enjoy jumping:
You find an unequalled sense of freedom and excitement in every jump, but more than that, you get to make every jump with some of your best friends in the world.
Outside Jumping:
anything and everything fun
Ryan “Hollywood” Fantasia
Academic Major:
Materials Chemistry
USAFA Squadron:
CS-13 “Fightin’ Bulldawgs”
Hometown:
San Diego, CA
Team Position/Job:
Jump Master/Instructor: Demonstration team
Special Talent:
The best in the west for ultimate frizbee
Fun Fact:
Has a strong affinity for playing with fire
Why did you join the team:
I joined the team to teach my peers and others how to have the courage to leave a plane for the first time in their life, without anyone around, and save their own life…stand in the door!!!
Biggest Fear:
Failing those around me.
Favorite Jump:
Doing a gainer out of the back of a C-130 “Hercules” into a demonstration in front of thousands of people in Dobbins ARB, GA, followed by stomping the “T”, with perfect accuracy
Why you enjoy jumping:
I enjoy jumping for the rush you get as you stand in the door and look out at the curvature of the earth, just as you plunge head-first into the abyss.
Outside Jumping:
I like to fish, hike, and play with fire, when i’m not studying for chemistry.
Willis Brown
Academic Major:
Legal Studies
USAFA Squadron:
CS-18
Hometown:
Zionsville, IN
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
Unstoppable at foosball and winning accuracy contests
Fun Fact:
I think Qdoba is better than Chipotle
Why did you join the team:
This program has given me the best opportunity to lead. I noticed the team had a great culture.
Biggest Fear:
Milk
Favorite Jump:
Stomping the T on my first demo in Atlanta…no one said it was going to be easy
Why you enjoy jumping:
Nothing beats carving head down…
Outside Jumping:
Tennis, bird watching, and kool-aid are the ways to win my heart…
Glenn Miltenberg
Academic Major:
Aeronautical engineering
USAFA Squadron:
CS-27 “Thunderbirds”
Hometown:
South Salem, NY
Team Position/Job:
Superintendent, freefly Competition team
Special Talent:
Falling asleep early
Fun Fact:
I am also a windtunnel instructor
Why did you join the team:
I was truly blown away by the sport and having the opportunity to bring the same joy to others that skydiving brought me was priceless.Being able to do it with such an incredible, dedicated group of people just made it even better.
Biggest Fear:
Not doing right by the people I care about.
Favorite Jump:
Jumping out after jumpmastering my first 490 load knowing that 9 lives would never be the same.
Why you enjoy jumping:
Its both challenging and relaxing. There is always something to work on, but at the same time you can just relax and enjoy. Also, the idea that people can be next to you, in front of you, and above and below you is mindblowing.
Outside Jumping:
I am on the AFA intercollegiate boxing team and enjoy, motocross, wakeboarding, snowboarding, and hanging out with friends and family.
Erin Brown
Academic Major:
Economics
USAFA Squadron:
CS-08 “Eagles”
Hometown:
Brighton, MI
Team Position/Job:
Jump Master/Instructor, Outside Center 4-Way Competition
Special Talent:
Flips!
Fun Fact:
Loves being the “mom” of 50 wonderful kids.
Why did you join the team:
I love teaching other people about something I love. Its so great to see how someone transforms after 490!
Biggest Fear:
Jumping out of planes (yes still)!
Favorite Jump:
First attempt at a WoG-Way on Spring Break 2011!
Why you enjoy jumping:
Jumping with your best friends is probably the most fun you will ever have in your life.
Outside Jumping:
Likes reading, hanging out with friends, and doing yoga.
Dani Griffith
Academic Major:
Systems Engineering Human Systems
USAFA Squadron:
CS-16 “Proud Chickenhawks”
Hometown:
The Woodlands, TX
Team Position/Job:
Jump Master/ Instructor Point 4-Way Competition
Special Talent:
I have a knack for climbing things.
Fun Fact:
I am the oldest of six kids; my siblings are absolutely amazing and my very best friends. Love you Ben, Michelle, Jonny, Boo, and Allie.
Why did you join the team:
I get to be around the most amazing people in the world and sharing the experience of skydiving with others. There’s nothing better.
Biggest Fear:
Crocodiles and alligators
Favorite Jump:
Probably our spring break WOG way with 16 people, but I’m sure there will be many jumps to top that in the future.
Why you enjoy jumping:
It’s addicting and always reminds me how blessed I am.
Outside Jumping:
Being with friends and family and playing sports!
Brett Brunner
Academic Major:
Civil Engineering
USAFA Squadron:
CS-25 “Rock Hard Redeye”
Hometown:
Dolores, CO
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster / Instructor / Competition Team: 4-Way Inside Center
Special Talent:
Fun Fact:
I have killed two black bears.
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to be a part of a team in which individuals were willing to make personal sacrifices for the advancement of the team. A team like that is greater than just the sum of its individuals and will usually find success.
Biggest Fear:
Losing the right perspective on life’s priorities and consequently wasting my life.
Favorite Jump:
M-6 with “Big Mac” (Kyle Land, Jeremy Krohngold, and Travis Grindstaff)
Why you enjoy jumping:
Outside Jumping:
I like to go hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping. Most anything outdoors is awesome.
Derek Travis
Academic Major:
Management
USAFA Squadron:
CS-33 “King Ratz”
Hometown:
Harrisonville, MO
Team Position/Job:
Jump Master / Instructor / Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
I have a knack for being able to predict the current weather.
Fun Fact:
For my whole first year at the Air Force Academy, I was registered as Cadet Travis Derek.
Why did you join the team:
I have always loved teaching and coaching. Being able to coach my peers to overcome their fears and jump out of an airplane really drew me in.
Biggest Fear:
Letting my family and loved ones down.
Favorite Jump:
Jumping out with all 22 of my classmates to attempt a 23-Way during our Spring Break my sophomore year.
Why you enjoy jumping:
Jumping is a blast to do with friends. And… it’s kind of a rush too.
Outside Jumping:
All sports, watching movies, and hanging with friends and family.
Shawn “Shawn John” Johnson
Academic Major:
Geospatial Science
USAFA Squadron:
CS-09 Vikings
Hometown:
Keller, TX
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Instructor/ Outside Center for AF Intrepid 4-Way Competition
Special Talent:
I am really good at obscure sports and games.
Fun Fact:
I was on 7 different Varsity sports in High School to include: Cross Country, Track, Baseball, Football, Diving, Bowling and Gymnastics.
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to teach others and allow them to experience the life changing adventure of skydiving.
Biggest Fear:
Casey Habluetzel fighting me…
Favorite Jump:
Celebrating our teammate’s 500th jump on a 14 Person Big Way from 16,500 ft. at sunset.
Why you enjoy jumping:
The freedom to fly through the sky is not something you can pass up…
Outside Jumping:
Golfing, bowling, running, outdoorsy stuff, and hanging out with the best friends in the world.
Sean “Hoo Hang” Hoang
Academic Major:
Systems Engineering Management
USAFA Squadron:
CS-05 Wolfpack
Hometown:
Lakewood, Co
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Instructor/ Demonstration Team/Token Asian
Special Talent:
I have the ability to fly; but only in the cabin of an aircraft
Fun Fact:
I was mistaken for every asian person on the team
Why did you join the team:
I love being part of something bigger than myself. I want to inspire people to do the right things.
Biggest Fear:
Dissapointing those who look up to me
Favorite Jump:
Doing a 4way tube with my friends up at longmont.
Why you enjoy jumping:
For a short period of time, all of my troubles, worries, and concerns dissolve
Outside Jumping:
Friends, Snowboarding, Hanging out, Outdoors, and being confused for some other asian.
Mitch Mehaffey
Academic Major:
Operations Research
USAFA Squadron:
CS-03 Dogs of War
Hometown:
Charlotte, NC
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Instructor/ Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
Fun Fact:
I was the runner up to Jonathan Goldsmith to be featured in Dos Equis’ most interesting man in the world campaign
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to be a part of such a close team that was going out and doing something awesome together. After Amn 490 when I saw team interaction and how they presented themselves I had to try out.
Biggest Fear:
Fear Itself
Favorite Jump:
First jump of WOG year spring break. I knew right away it was going to be a good week.
Why you enjoy jumping:
Jumping is one of the coolest things I’ve ever done. If you havent before you should definatley try it.
Outside Jumping:
The team is an awesome group of people. I like to spend time with them when we’re not jumping.
Dustin Weeks
Academic Major:
Civil Engineering
USAFA Squadron:
CS-13 “Fightin’ Bulldawgs”
Hometown:
Vancouver, Wa
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Instructor/ Competition Team/ Grandfather
Special Talent:
Training Rabbits to jump through fire hoops.
Fun Fact:
I got nothing…
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to carry on the legacy of professionalism that is the 98th FTS.
Biggest Fear:
The Wendys Girl
Favorite Jump:
Jump #1 in AM490. Slapping John Primeaux in the face was pretty much the coolest thing ever. “ARCH THOUSAND”
Why you enjoy jumping:
Fear of commitment.
Outside Jumping:
Yes.
Timothy “Scooter” Smith
Academic Major:
Mechanical Engineering
USAFA Squadron:
CS-04 Fightin’ Fourth
Hometown:
Boulder, CO
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Instructor/ Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
Fruit Conoisseur
Fun Fact:
Once won 100 dollars in a Rock Paper Scissors tournament
Why did you join the team:
To pass on the gift that was given to me. It is something special to take your students from knowing nothing, to spitting out emergency procedures while spun and distracted, to watching them fall away from the plane with a look of overwhelming terror and extreme excitement, to seeing their pride after pinning on the jump wings. The whole experience is as unique as it is extrordinary.
Biggest Fear:
Train tracks
Favorite Jump:
A jump out of the back of a C-130 with Mike O’Donnell where the plan of throwing simultaneous gainers turned into flipping uncontrollably for well over 1000 feet while laughing our faces off the whole way down.
Why you enjoy jumping:
The sky world is as elusive as it is freeing. So tantalizing and yet only briefly obtainable. Jumping with the team provides the perfect blend of excitement, adventure, friendship, and the persuit.
Outside Jumping:
I enjoy telemark skiing and Chipotle.
Jonathan O’Neill
Academic Major:
Foreign Area Studies – Latin America
USAFA Squadron:
CS-01 Mighty Mach one
Hometown:
Miami, Fl
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Instructor/ Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
Accents…all kinds of them.
Fun Fact:
Has been through every natural disaster that can possibly affect the U.S.
Why did you join the team:
esprit de corps
Biggest Fear:
Anything with more than 6 legs
Favorite Jump:
Spring break Wog way in Marana.
Why you enjoy jumping:
Because for those precious few seconds you find yourself in the air, everything else doesn’t matter.
Outside Jumping:
Beach, sunshine, the outdoors, fine dining and jet-setting.
Todd Lee
Academic Major:
Foreign Area Studies
USAFA Squadron:
CS-04 Fightin’ Fourth
Hometown:
Lawrence, KS
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/Instuctor/Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
Unbelievable Dobby voice immpression
Fun Fact:
I caught all 150 pokemon on the original Blue/Red games
Why did you join the team:
What is: jumping out of planes and helping others to do the same Trebek! Every jump is just as awesome as number one and putting students out the door while flashing the rock on sign never gets old even if you have to go static.
Biggest Fear:
Automatic flushing/wiping toilets, gets me every time. Not living up to the expectations i set for myself would come in at a close second
Favorite Jump:
Hybrid with Sean Hoang and Glenn Miltenberg. We spun the crap out of Glenn.
Why you enjoy jumping:
Where else can you go 120mph without some kind of vehicle/propulsion mechanism??
Outside Jumping:
SOCCER! 4 billion fans worldwide can’t be wrong!
Jordan Loudenback
Academic Major:
Management
USAFA Squadron:
CS-04 “Fightin Fourth”
Hometown:
Colorado Springs, CO
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/Instructor/Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
I can wiggle my ears like a pro
Fun Fact:
Skydiving was invented by Leonardi da Vinci… the parachute it was made of wood (hmm I’m glad we’ve made some changes)
Why did you join the team:
I absolutely love the team aspect of the Wings of Blue. I am very blessed to spend time with some of the best people here at the Academy. We have a ton of fun together and have made some great memories already.
Biggest Fear:
Favorite Jump:
23-way in Arizona during our Wings of Green year.
Why you enjoy jumping:
The exhilaration of freefall, it is such a neat experience to share with some of the closest buds.
Outside Jumping:
I play guitar, snowboard, anything outdoors as long as it is with close friends and family.
Travis “Caveman” Thornton
Academic Major:
History
USAFA Squadron:
Cadet Squadron 26 – Mighty Barons
Hometown:
Niceville, FL
Team Position/Job:
Competition 4 Way team. I fly tail for an amazing group of guys. Go AF Intrepid!
Special Talent:
I can eat an unhealthy amount of popcorn at any time of the day. The same applies for chips and salsa.
Fun Fact:
I convinced my father to go skydiving. He had a great time but “failed” to mention the event to my mother until after the jump. We are still trying to convince her to go. Past attempts have not been too successful.
Why did you join the team:
Wings of Blue is an unparalleled opportunity in the United States Air Force. Skydiving is an incredible activity and the team is a solid group of men and women. Additionally, I enjoy fostering a sense of pride and confidence in my 490 students.
Biggest Fear:
Skydiving
Favorite Jump:
Any jump when all 4 members of my four way team have a massive smile that silently says “that was awesome.”
Why you enjoy jumping:
I enjoy jumping because it is insane. There are no words that can describe the screaming wind in your ears at 180 mph or the pounding adrenaline during a fast paced competition dive. I love ending my stories with “you need to try it.”
Outside Jumping:
I recently picked up skiing this year. It is ALMOST as cool as skydiving. I also enjoy hanging out with friends during my free time.
Beau Riebe
Academic Major:
Systems Engineering Management
USAFA Squadron:
CS 24: Phantoms
Hometown:
Mercer Island, Washington!
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/Demonstration
Special Talent:
I can twirl my phone around my fingers really well and people always ask me to show them how… Not sure why, since it mainly ends up with me having a beat up phone.
Fun Fact:
I have been skiing since I was 2 years old.
Why did you join the team:
There’s no greater feeling than being jumpmaster for your element of 490 students, landing on the ground and seeing all their smiling faces and wide-open eyes.
Biggest Fear:
Drowning in a pool of mayonaise.
Favorite Jump:
The most fun jump I’ve had was from a hot air balloon. But my favorite skydiving experience was when my mom, sister, brother, and girlfriend (at the time) did tandems and I got to be on the ground waiting for them and got to see how excited they were!
Why you enjoy jumping:
I love doing risky, dangerous things, so naturally skydiving is one of my top activities. Falling towards the earth, knowing your life is completely in your hands is one helluva thrill!
Outside Jumping:
I ski as much as I can in the winter. Hanging out with friends, and TRYING to stay out of trouble!
Jonathan Primeaux
Academic Major:
Mechanical Engineering
USAFA Squadron:
35 “Huge Wild Weasels”
Hometown:
Lake Charles, Louisiana
Team Position/Job:
Competition Team Air Force Swag
Special Talent:
I do not need subtitles when watching Swamp People
Fun Fact:
I have been to 48 states but never out of the country.
Why did you join the team:
Once I took Airmanship 490 I knew that I wanted to continue jumping and give other cadets the chance to jump as well
Biggest Fear:
To disapoint my family and friends in any way
Favorite Jump:
The first jump I had with AF Swag
Why you enjoy jumping:
Every jump is different and teaches you something new
Outside Jumping:
I love the outdoors, playing guitar, and Snowboarding
Sam Raine
Academic Major:
Civil Engineering
USAFA Squadron:
36 “Proud Pink Panthers”
Hometown:
Dunsmuir, CA
Team Position/Job:
Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
Can recite harry potter 1-7 verbatim
Fun Fact:
Competes in snowboarding
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to teach Airmanship 490 so I could let my fellow peers out of a plane and see the smile, or terror, on their faces
Biggest Fear:
Snakes. And dead grass where they may be hiding.
Favorite Jump:
With my best friends
Why you enjoy jumping:
The feeling of just letting go of the plane and not worring about anything but haveing fun and smiling.
Outside Jumping:
I enjoy doing outdoor activities with my friends such as swimming in the lake, snowboarding, and camping.
Andy “Sadface” Marchi
Academic Major:
Operations Research
USAFA Squadron:
CS-27 Thunderbirds
Hometown:
Orange County, California
Team Position/Job:
Air Force S.W.A.G. “Skydiving With A Girl” Four-Way Relative Work Competition
Special Talent:
I make the most delicious of smoothies.
Fun Fact:
10th Generation Californian
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to be the one to teach a student to go from not knowing anything about skydiving-to trusting me and their training by jumping out of a plane alone.
Biggest Fear:
The Ground…
Favorite Jump:
Jumping out of a C-130 in Florida. We were over water, clouds, and the NASA space shuttle sitting on the launch pad.
Why you enjoy jumping:
Mainly because my parachute works, but without my friends it would just be another silly activity. Life is about the relationships.
Outside Jumping:
I love anything outdoors. I try to experience new things whenever they present themselves and meet new people whenever I can.
Alec Ferguson
Academic Major:
Operations Research
USAFA Squadron:
CS-12 Dirty Dozen
Hometown:
Clermont, FL
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
Fit a nickel flat ways in both nostrils at the same time.
Fun Fact:
Seen over 150 bands in concert.
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to join the team after seeing the bonds between the members of the team and how much fun every teammember had teaching others their passion of skydiving.
Biggest Fear:
A clown drenched in mayonnaise holding a spider. (A combo of my top 3 fears)
Favorite Jump:
22 person WoG-Way attempt over Spring Break in Tucson, AZ.
Why you enjoy jumping:
Spending up to a minute of peace with some of my best friends.
Outside Jumping:
I enjoy listening to all music, snowboarding, and just hanging out with my friends. I used to enjoy surfing when I lived in FL, but there is no ocean in CO.
Colleen Haggerty
Academic Major:
Behavioral Sciences with a minor in Spanish
USAFA Squadron:
CS-33 King Ratz
Hometown:
Millis, MA
Team Position/Job:
Competition Team – 4Way
Special Talent:
I am the only person that can stand straight up in the back of the Twin Otter
Fun Fact:
I grew up on a farm that makes hay and honey.
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to join the team to teach AM-490 and be a part of the closest group at the academy.
Biggest Fear:
Spiders. All kinds.
Favorite Jump:
March of 2010 jumping at Cape Canaveral, FL. We jumped out over the water and built my first 6-way formation. When the dive was over and I was under canopy, I could see the space shuttle sitting on the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center.
Why you enjoy jumping:
It is unlike any other experience. It’s hard to describe but I think everyone should experience it at least once in their lives.
Outside Jumping:
Running marathons, cooking and baking (especially cookies), and painting.
Benjamin Arneberg
Academic Major:
Computer Engineering
USAFA Squadron:
CS-18 Nightriders
Hometown:
Chippewa Falls, WI
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
Can juggle 3 flaming torches, haven’t worked up the nerve to try chainsaws yet.
Fun Fact:
Vomited on stage during my first grade Christmas pageant. The show went on, and my character changed from wearing white to pink.
Why did you join the team:
I loved the thought of the challenge and thrill of teaching others to skydive. And, I wanted to be a part of the closeknit family that is the Wings of Blue, traveling around the world representing the Air Force with my fellow teammates.
Biggest Fear:
Spiders
Favorite Jump:
I jumped a four man “Bomb Burst” formation skydive at an airshow in California, and after landing to the roar of 25,000 people, was asked to take a picture with the Miller Lite girls.
Why you enjoy jumping:
I love the principle of jumping, especially what I went through as a student. I did something I was scared to death to do, but now view every subsequent challenge I encounter in life as “Well it’s not as scary as jumping out of a plane for the first time”
Outside Jumping:
Enjoy pickup basketball, working out, and spending time with God, family, and friends.
Christopher “Choo’ Chua
Academic Major:
Behavioral Science – Premed
USAFA Squadron:
CS-10 “Tiger Ten”
Hometown:
Bayside, NY
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/4-way Competitor (Outside Center)
Special Talent:
I can drink 9/8 gallons of milk, but no more. Being subject to Benny B.’s brilliant ideas…
Fun Fact:
I did not get my driver’s license until the ripe age of 20 and 11 months
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to give back to the program that gave me so much. I wanted to be able to “help” kids out the plane and see the vast spectrum of emotions ranging from fear to pure joy all in a span of 2 seconds. I wanted to be able to help motivate kids so much that they would be willing to throw themselves out of a plane despite an innate desire not to. Also, after seeing the camaraderie within the team, I wanted to be able to partake in that and share the same bond with a great bunch of guys and girls.
Biggest Fear:
Letting my friends and family down, spiders, and dripping water in the Subway station of New York whose origins are unknown.
Favorite Jump:
Spring Break 2010 – We jumped at Cape Canaveral, FL. This was the first time we got to jump at a location other than USAFA, wearing chuck taylor’s, with more than 1 WoG on a pass, over the water, overlooking the NASA space center. To top it all off we got an awesome speech from an awesome staff member which really set the tone for the trip. This was by far my fondest jump memory.
Why you enjoy jumping:
It is an awesome experience that allows me to dump anything on my mind and just be at peace for a little bit. It is also a great way to spend time with friends and air it out.
Outside Jumping:
Hanging out with friends, Harry Potter, playing any kind of sport – even if not well, eating, anything outdoors, and spending time with my family.
Hometown:
Samboranto Antananarivo Madagascar. Big Sky MT.St Croix USVI
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
Streetballer
Fun Fact:
Fluent in 4 different languages-Interpreter for the team- Speak Malagasy, French, English and currently learning spanish. Fluent in Baby language
Why did you join the team:
Life time frendship. Opportunity to share your knowledge to others. I want to be a positive influence for those around me. I love sharing the stories on how a little kid, a nobody from Madagascar who barely spoke english in 2008 applied for an appointment to the Air Force Academy. A year later, he went through the jump program AM 490 and then tried out for the Wings of Green. Now he is part of the World Class team Wings of Blue. I want to convey through this story that the impossible could be possible and dreams can come true. I wanna encourage others to work towards their goals and their dreams because nothing is impossible. Teaching AM 490 would give me the opportunity to share such story.
Biggest Fear:
Losing someone that I care about. I wanna be the point man, I d love to be the first one to go.
Favorite Jump:
My AFF grad dive in Cape Canaveral Florida during Spring break 2010. Sunset jump Fall 2010 at Longmont. 12 person stack. Demo dawgs ye!
Why you enjoy jumping:
Jumping frees me from the worries of the World even for a short moment. It clears my mind and it feels great to be on top of the World.
Outside Jumping:
Basketball is my other passion besides parachuting. I scuba dive though i am not a good swimmer. I love to fish, flyfish and deep sea fishing. I love to play guitar and sing in my native language. I love to hang out with my friends. I love dirtbike riding.
Stephanie Puzak
Academic Major:
Behavioral Sciences, french minor
USAFA Squadron:
12 – Dirty Dozen
Hometown:
Colorado Springs, CO
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
Baking & can tie a cherry stem into a knot with my tongue
Fun Fact:
Colorado native but have lived on both coasts before coming back to the great state.
Why did you join the team:
Biggest Fear:
Favorite Jump:
Why you enjoy jumping:
Outside Jumping:
Ben Fonte
Academic Major:
Civil Engineering
USAFA Squadron:
CS 25 “Redeye”
Hometown:
Arvada, CO
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
I can become invisible but only when it is pitch black and no one can see.
Fun Fact:
My grandmother is Canadian and sometimes i talk with a Candaian accent. That’s pretty neat eh?
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to be able to “throw” my best friend here at the Academy out of an aeroplane.
Biggest Fear:
The murkiness of the ocean
Favorite Jump:
My first jump. It was crazy and intense and i almost got kicked out of the jump program.
Why you enjoy jumping:
Why wouldn’t you enjoy jumping?
Outside Jumping:
I enjoy long walks on the dropzone at sunset.
Molly Bush
Academic Major:
Legal Studies
USAFA Squadron:
CS-04 “Fightin Fourth”
Hometown:
Colorado Springs, CO
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Instructor/ Demonstration Team
Special Talent:
I know the flag of every country in the world.
Fun Fact:
I have a really cool voice
Why did you join the team:
I knew that building people up for their first five jumps, while doing something that I love with a great group of people, would be the greatest opportunity I would ever have.
Biggest Fear:
Early death
Favorite Jump:
Hop and pop
Why you enjoy jumping:
I love the air.
Outside Jumping:
I love being with my family and friends and am an avid billiards player.
Zack Helton
Academic Major:
Legal Studies
USAFA Squadron:
CS-30 “Knights of Thirty”
Hometown:
Vacaville, CA
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/Competition Team- 4-way Inside Center
Special Talent:
I can swallow my tongue
Fun Fact:
I was in the Phillipines when Mt. Pinatubo erupted
Why did you join the team:
I wanted to be part of a close knit team, and the idea of being trusted to teach people how to jump out of an airplane for the first time was pretty cool.
Biggest Fear:
Cockroaches. I hate em.
Favorite Jump:
Big way from 16,500 for Zoe’s 500th jump
Why you enjoy jumping:
There’s absolutely no other feeling in the world like it. If you dont believe me, try it.
Fun Fact:
I’m from IA so naturally I like corn and was educated in a one room schoolhouse. Actually thats not true at all except for the corn part
Why did you join the team:
The first jump course at the academy was the most rewarding experience of my life to that point. I wanted to give future classes the same experience
Biggest Fear:
Snakes
Favorite Jump:
First Gainer on jump 22
Why you enjoy jumping:
The exit, it’s the best 3 seconds of my life every time
Outside Jumping:
I love guitar, following major league baseball, and making good stories
Jeremy Krohngold
Academic Major:
Civil Engineering
USAFA Squadron:
CS-15 “War Eagles”
Hometown:
Mission Viejo, CA
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Competition team 4-way (point)
Special Talent:
I can walk really far on my hands.
Fun Fact:
I was a gymnastics coach for 2 years before coming to the Academy.
Why did you join the team:
The thrill of skydiving with some of my best friends whoile being able to teach and pass that exhilaration on to others.
Biggest Fear:
Heights when I don’t have a parachute on.
Favorite Jump:
11 way over Spring Break where we threw a two after the outer ring tracked away.
Why you enjoy jumping:
I’m an adrenaline junkie why wouldn’t i enjoy it.
Outside Jumping:
I ski, snowboard, mountain bike, surf, golf, and still dabble in gymnastics and trampoline.
John Skeele
Academic Major:
Math & Economics
USAFA Squadron:
CS-28 Blackbirds
Hometown:
Hillsborough, NJ
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Competition team 4-way (tail)
Special Talent:
The fist pump
Fun Fact:
I am a die-hard NY Yankee fan
Why did you join the team:
The team is such a skydiving Air Force frat. Hellooo who wouldn’t want this in college
Biggest Fear:
Melvins
Favorite Jump:
100th jump. 150 mph. caught onto a bigway. stomped the target. everyday I’m shufflin.
Why you enjoy jumping:
The split second you leave the plane and there’s nothing but adrenaline, quiet, and you. biggest thrill of my life
Outside Jumping:
anything for the adrenaline
Travis Grindstaff
Academic Major:
Biology (Premed)
USAFA Squadron:
CS-15 “War Eagles”
Hometown:
Mountain City, TN
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/Competition team 4-Way (outside center)
Special Talent:
Sleeping on my stomach
Fun Fact:
I have a twin brother who looks exactly like me and is a stud bodybuilder
Why did you join the team:
Skydiving is one of life’s best kept secrets, and the team is the closest and most fun family in the world. Being able to teach and share the awsomeness of skydiving with others makes all the hard work worth while.
Biggest Fear:
Organic Chemistry/Taking life for granted
Favorite Jump:
Spring Break 11-way when 11 people where linked together joking and laughing during free-fall
Why you enjoy jumping:
The thrill of leaving the plane, transitioning from the noise of the plane to the peace of the air, and being able to enjoy a minute of piece and quite away from world is the most breathtaking experience ever.
Outside Jumping:
In the Stairwell, Weightlifting/ Bodybuilding, civilian skydiving, golf, hanging with friends and being a nerd
Rick Cassleman
Academic Major:
Political Science
USAFA Squadron:
CS-17 Stalag
Hometown:
Grand Haven, MI
Team Position/Job:
DEMO-DOG/ JM
Special Talent:
2-ways with Harry Potter
Fun Fact:
Irish Tin Whistle playing
Why did you join the team:
490 experience was awesome.
Biggest Fear:
Potentiality in God.
Favorite Jump:
Spring Break C-130 jump into lots of industrial haze.
Special Talent:
I suppose I’m a fairly normal one in the bunch…
Fun Fact:
I have a twin sister who lives just south of the Air Force Academy – we hang out all the time.
Why did you join the team:
I first saw a Wings of Blue picture in a brochure for the Air Force Academy before I even applied. I knew that I wanted to try to get to the Academy and hopefully make it into the program – it’s been an awesome ride and an even bigger blessing than I could have ever imageined.
Biggest Fear:
Failure
Favorite Jump:
Cincinnati Reds Baseball Game demonstration jump with my demo bros Dane Lannon and Mike O’Donnell
Why you enjoy jumping:
Why wouldn’t you enjoy jumping?
Outside Jumping:
God, friends, singing, working out, eating, and SLEEPING!
Dane Lannon
Academic Major:
Behavioral Science Human Factors
USAFA Squadron:
CS-22 Raptors
Hometown:
Boston, MA
Team Position/Job:
Jumpmaster/ Pro-Rated Demonstrator
Special Talent:
Juggling
Fun Fact:
I can’t even stand to look at mayo.
Why did you join the team:
I had some guys in my former squadron who were on the team and I just thought they were a different breed. They were instructors, and it was in their blood. They were role models instead of guys I wanted to prove wrong. I knew I wanted to be at their caliber at some point.
Biggest Fear:
Failure…and Spiders
Favorite Jump:
Navigating my canopy over the Cincinnati Skyline into Great American Ballpark with OD and Frenchie
Why you enjoy jumping:
Stress relief.
Outside Jumping:
Travelling, music, meeting new people, sports
Glenn Miltenberg