Past, present Shooters unite Published March 17, 2010 By 2nd Lt. Emily Chilson 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFNS) -- Nearly 20 55th Fighter Squadron "Shooter" alumni pilots spent the weekend reflecting on the "Shooter" heritage with current squadron members March 5 here. During a tour of the U.S. Air Force Fighter Weapons System School, alumni compared the fighter weapons program they knew in their days on active duty. "We're definitely standing on the shoulders of you gentlemen who came before us," said Col. Kevin Oliver, the USAFFWS commandant. "Heritage keeps us going out here." The reunion continued March 6 when squadron members and alumni met for breakfast and a recap of the squadron's history as told by retired Lt. Col. Denny Schaan, an F-100 Supersabre pilot, "Shooter" alum and secretary of the 20th Fighter Wing Association. The 55th FS was a big player in the Cold War with an alert commitment that started with the F-84 and continued through the F-100 and F-111 Aardvark; more than 40 years. "For those of us who participated, it was a real war, and I lost more comrades in that war than I did in Vietnam" Colonel Schaan said. "The enemy was real, the mission was real." The "Shooters" got their start at Kelly Field, Texas, in 1917, and were relocated 25 times, including locations in France and England, before settling at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., where the unit is currently one of three F-16 Fighting Falcon squadrons in the 20th Fighter Wing. Since its beginning, the 55th FS has flown P-12s, P-51 Mustangs, F-84 Thunderjets, F-100s and A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, to name a few. The squadron also flew the P-26 Peashooters, hence the name "Shooters." After breakfast, the group listened to a briefing on the 98th Range Wing and visited the Threat Training Facility and the Thunderbird Museum at Nellis AFB, Nev. Col. John Montgomery, the 98th Range Wing commander, briefed alumni and squadron members on the range mission, and how it's essential to aircrew training. The reunion wrapped up with a banquet where alumni and current squadron members exchanged stories and memories as they looked at "Shooter" history displays. "It's really enjoyable to come out here and see the young bucks and their enthusiasm," said retired Lt. Col. Elwood Sanders, the last F-100 squadron commander, from December 1969 to January 1971. Lt. Col. Doug DeMaio, the current 55th FS commander, gave a briefing on the squadron's current operations, including photos from their most recent deployment to Joint Base Balad, Iraq, and explained how they are preparing for another upcoming Iraq deployment. "I'm really looking forward to taking these guys back overseas," Colonel DeMaio said. "After Green Flag, we should be ready to go to Iraq, Afghanistan -- you name it." At the end of the banquet, the microphone was open for alumni to offer advice and lend words of encouragement to the younger generation of "Shooters" as they prepare to deploy. "A special thanks to everyone for being here," Colonel DeMaio said. "We are truly honored by your presence." Lauretta Little, whose husband Ian passed away seven years ago, proudly shared a photo of her husband when he was assigned to the 55th from 1958 to 1961. "It's good to see everyone," Ms. Little said. "It's great they do this and keep track of old friends." "I'm humbled to be here," said retired Col. James Savage, who commanded the 55th FS from 1986 to 1988. "I feel fortunate in getting to be a part of what you guys are doing. Our country is in good hands with you guys, and I'll sleep well at night for that, so I thank you for what you do." Fellow alumni echoed those words and emphasized to current squadron members that their time in the squadron is precious. "I would remind you guys that you are professionals, and you're well-trained," said retired Col. Bob Harvey, who commanded the 55th FS from 1998 to 2000. "Enjoy every flight you have in the (F-16), because any one of us would trade places with you in a heartbeat. We're all proud of you." "We have ladies, gentlemen and warriors here from every era," Colonel DeMaio said. "I wanted our young fighter pilots to meet those who fought in World War II and Korea. "I couldn't be prouder of these guys than if they were my own kids," he said. "It's been my honor." In another seven years, the Shooters will celebrate their 100th birthday. "We look forward to another "Shooter Saturday," Colonel Schaan said, "and a really big one as we celebrate in 2017."