Presidio of Monterey Celebrates Air Force Birthday Published Sept. 25, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. Eric Johnston 311th Training Squadron PRESIDIO OF MONTEREY, Calif -- The 517th Training Group, Presidio of Monterey, Calif, commemorated the Air Force's 62nd birthday by hosting the Air Force Ball on Sept. 12, in downtown Monterey, Calif. With more than 525 in attendance, members of the Presidio of Monterey and Defense Language Institute senior leadership, community leaders and Airmen were able to participate in an important Air Force tradition. Airmen gained an appreciation for the 17th Training Wing's proud heritage as Col Terry Bare, the 517 TRG commander, discussed the linkage between the 17 TRW and the 17th Bomb Group that provided training support for the Doolittle Raid back in World War II. Airmen also had the opportunity to meet retired Gen. Michael P. Carnes, former vice chief of staff of the Air Force, who attended the event with his wife, Victoria. Highlighting this year's theme, "Air Force ISR of the 21st Century," the distinguished guest speaker, Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, James R. Clapper, emphasized the integral role the 517 TRG Airmen will fill within the Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance community. During the celebration, the 517 TRG's Honor Guard executed a somber remembrance to honor Prisoners Of War and those still Missing In Action. The 517 TRG student choir performed a rendition of the National Anthem. Capping off the evening, entertainment was provided by two 517 TRG students, Airman 1st Class Hoogendoorn and Airman Calvo, who served as DJs. The Airmen of the Presidio learned more about their Air Force heritage, got a peek into what their futures hold, and realized they are part of building a proud service tradition in Monterey, Calif.
