August issue of Airman available Published Aug. 2, 2004 SAN ANTONIO (AFPN) -- Read about Airmen protecting convoys in Iraq, discover what it takes to become an astronaut, and learn how the rich ecosystem at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., is being protected. These features and more highlight the August issue of Airman magazine, now available in print and online at http://www.af.mil/news/airman.Convoy Protectors – It is not their job, but then again, vehicle operators manning gun trucks fits within the bounds of nontraditional warfare for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These Airmen-Soldiers are working side-by-side with the Army providing convoy security for vital supplies moving throughout Iraq while remaining vigilant against attack.Reaching for the Stars -- For nearly two years, 24 Airmen have trained for a job in which they only get one chance to do it right. On a long road of physical and mental training, these Airmen are ready for tasks 50 miles above the boundaries of Earth. Ride with them to see what it is like to earn astronaut wings.Eglin’s Other World -- Despite bombings, live-fire exercises and periodic controlled burns by local fire control experts, Eglin AFB’s vast training areas have become some of the safest habitats for a host of endangered species. And Eglin officials want to keep it that way.The Godfather – He is the man calling the shots, literally, when the sky above Alaska is filled with aircraft waiting for a fight during Cope Thunder exercises at Eielson Air Force Base. When an aircraft approaches a target, “enemy” Airmen call “the godfather” for guidance.The New CRO -- A new generation of officers, called combat rescue officers, are being trained. After more than a year of some of the most demanding training the Air Force offers, they will be the experts commanders tap for advice on rescuing people and handling survival training for Airmen in the field.