Share your memories
Share your memories about the Armed Forces Bowl

Several grads from 32nd squadron met after the game in the end zone to catch up after the tough loss (Wayne Kellenbence, Rick Devereaux, Wayne Ford, Jim Rubalca ba). It was fantastic being in the middle of a very loud and supportive crowd cheering on OUR Falcons. For once, we were loud and united and I'd never been to a game like that!  Sure, I've been to other big program college games where the fans were loud, but NEVER before for the zoomies. It was great, but we were very sad when Shaun Carney got hurt on the one yard line...right in front of us!!  Even after that, I was proud of the way we never gave up when things looked really down. We had our chances right up to the end, and I think everyone who watched that game saw the grit and determination out on the field.

I remember school very well, but as an insider. Now, as an outsider looking in, I really appreciate and admire our cadets. It's great to know that USAFA is still going strong!

'78 Is Great!
Dave Meehan

Of course, the best memories of the game were renewing several friendships with classmates and others from close classes. The second best memory was the excellent play and determined response of the entire football team and associated cadre. Coaches and players were simply number 1!

Now the worst memory. The Cal band, cheering section, coaches, players, and all their associates trying to drown out our playing of the Air Force Song. It was rude, classless, and unsportsmanlike. Has anyone officially protested to their University President? I also have season tickets to TCU games. Several of my Horned Frog season ticket friends who were at the game commented on the rude behavior of Cal. Their comments however were often punctuated with, "that is what we would expect from them!". TCU plays Air Force hard, but the coaches and players from both schools are always respectful of the other team.  I expect nothing less, and I sure am proud of our boys! Go Falcons!!

Tommy Thompson
Class of '70 

As an '83 graduate, I took my son to the Armed Forces Bowl in Ft. Worth.  The game was great, wrong team won, but the most inspirational aspect of the game was the halftime show.  When the falcon was released and flew around the stadium, I said to my son Alec that he was watching the only performing mascot in the NCAA.  Sure enough after flying with grace and speed a few times around the stadium, the winged mascot expertly caught the lure the falconer had thrown to get it back to being captive once again.  It reminded me of those AF-Army games as a cadet when we used to chant "Let's see the mule fly!"  Brought back great memories.

Eric Strull
Class of 1983

My wife and I stayed in the team hotel, Fort Worth Hilton. After the
game, when I dropped the car off, the valet parking attendant told me
that since the Armed Forces Bowl started, the losing team has always
stayed in that hotel.

Maybe when we win big during the season and go next year, we can
select "the other hotel"!

Ray Haygood, '69
Parker, CO