AFTAC construction project protects sea turtles

Green tarps are draped across the third level of the new Air Force Technical Applications Center that is under construction at Patrick AFB, Fla. The tarps prevent light from emanating towards the shoreline where sea turtles make their nests. (U.S. Air Force photo by Susan A. Romano)

AFTAC Conducts Steel Signing Ceremony

Distinguished visitors and senior leaders break away from their tour to pose for a group photo in front of the Air Force Technical Applications Center military construction site at Patrick AFB, Fla. The group came to the base for a symbolic steel signing ceremony Aug. 22, 2012, and received a background briefing on the progress of the construction project. "This is an exciting milestone for us," said Col. Chris Worley, AFTAC commander. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Susan A. Romano)

AFTAC Conducts Steel Signing Ceremony

As distinguished visitors and senior leaders look on, Chief Master Sgt. John Nederhoed adds his signature to a 12-foot steel beam that will be placed in the Air Force Technical Applications Center new headquarters building that is currently under construction at Patrick AFB, Fla. The symbolic steel signing ceremony took place Aug. 22, 2012 . The $158 million dollar facility is scheduled to be completed in January 2014. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Susan A. Romano)

AFTAC Conducts Steel Signing Ceremony

Col. Chris Worley (center), Air Force Technical Applications Center commander, addresses distinguished visitors during a symbolic steel signing ceremony held in the AFTAC headquarters lobby Aug. 22, 2012 at Patrick AFB, Fla. The 12-foot piece of steel will ultimately be placed in the new AFTAC building currently under construction. From left to right: Chief Master Sergeant Lou Moyer, 45th Space Wing command chief; Col Bob Pavelko, 45th Space Wing vice commander; Barbara Arthur, Regional Director for Volusia County representing Sen. Bill Nelson; Worley; Rob Medina, Director of Community Relations representing Rep. Bill Posey; Bob Wiley, member of the Long Range Detection Alumni Association; and Chief Master Sgt. John Nederhoed, AFTAC superintendent. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Susan A. Romano)

From Father to Daughter

Gold-plated dog tags that once belonged to retired Master Sgt. Alex Hall now hang around the neck of his daughter Monique who was recently selected to attend the United States Air Force Academy and play for the school's basketball team. The dog tags were a gift from father to daughter as a memento of pride and a reminder of what her future holds. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Susan A. Romano)

Proud Parents of Future USAFA Basketball Star

Laquita Hall (left) and Alex Hall (right) discuss academic expectations and athletic strategies with their daughter Monique (center) who was recently selected to play Division I basketball for the United States Air Force Academy. Said her father, “Stay strong. Be a leader. Follow God’s path and don’t let others deter you.” (U.S. Air Force Photo by Susan A. Romano)