-
Sea World to host
14th annual Navy
Night fete July 3
San Diego's Sea World will host the 14th
annual Navy Night celebration beginning at
Bp.m. on Sunday. July 3.
For just $5.75 (a 50 percent savings over
the regular admission price) visitors can
enjoy five hours of entertainment including
six new aquatic shows, a special appear-
apce by " Up With People." and the unique
Penguin Encounter.
The penguin exhibit is the only facility of
its kind in the world, It showcases six dif·
ferent species.
APPRECIATION EXPRESSED- Jlln uhr. wife of the former Skipper. tells the group
gllth.red at ~pt. Lahr's retirement ~rty Monday evening how much she and her
husbAnd enjoyed their stay at China Lake and the friendships formed here, as Capt. Lahr
looks at one of the gifts they received. Seen between them is the Larry Zabel painting
that WilS presented as the milior farewell gift from those assembled to wish them well.
Visitors may observe the birds' natural
behaviors from a moving sidewalk that
transports guests past l()o"foot viewing
windows, or on 16 TV monitors placed
around an upper viewing deck.
The energetic musical group "Up With
People" is a youthful combination of
singers, dancers and musicians, who have
presented their dynamic program in
countries around the world.
IWV Concert Ass'n plans series
of six programs next season
In addition. Navy Night will feature
Shamu, the killer whale. in the new show; a
brilliant fireworks display; and unlimited
free rides on the PSA Skytower and the
Atlantis Skyride.
A series of six concerts will be offered
during the 1983-&1 season by the Indian
Wells Valley Concert Association at the
Center theater, beginning next October.
Present Concert Association members
are urged to return their season ticket
renewal forms, so that seat reassignments
for renewing members can be completed
before the sale of season tickets to new
members begins. Seats not reserved by
tomorrow will be subject to reassignment to
other Concert Association members.
Seat changes for renewing members will
be handled from July 5through Aug. 15. with
assignments for new members starting
shortly thereafter. Prospective new
members may contact the Concert
Association by calling 375-5600 at anytime
for information, or to be replaced on the
" new member'I list.
i
The 1983~ concert season is schedulet..!
for a lively opening on Thursday. Oct. 30:
Featured in the inaugural program of the
IWV Concert Association's 37th season will
be the New American Ragtime Ensemble.
This 12-member orchestra was founded,in
1976 and is directed by Tom Maguire. The
group employs the traditional ragtime
instrwnents - flute, piccolo, clarinet,
trumpet, trombone, tuba, two violins, viola,
cello. piano and percussion.
During its concert programs. the New.
American Ragtime Ensemble recreates the
time when ragtime music was the rage by
also appearing in turn-ilf-the century formal
dress.
On Wednesday, Nov. 30. Western Opera
Theater, the San Francisco Opera Center's
touring company, will present a fully staged
version (in English) of Puccini's " Madame
Butterfly."
Coming here on Tuesday, Jan. 10. 1984,
will be the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet.
Brought together in 1979 by the reowned
guitarist Pepe Romero. the Los Angeles
Guitar Quartet combines the talents of four
gifted solo artists.
This group has developed a unique and
widely varied repertoire for guitar en-
Avoid wait at Rx
counter by getting
to pharmacy early
While the NRMC branch clinic pharmacy
will happily refill all prescriptions written
by the clinic or by the Long Beach Naval
Hospital. it will not refill any prescriptions
from other commands.
Prescriptions written by civilian doctors
will not be filled after 4:30 p.m. on weekdays
or on weekends. There will be no exceptions
to this ruling. Clinic pharmacy hours are
7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through
Fridays.
Those who wish to save themselves time
spent waiting are advised to bring their
prescriptions in between 7:30 and 10 a.m.•
or from 12:30to 3p.m.
sembles, ranging from Renaissance
dances to the music of Spain. as well as
music olthe 20th century.
On Monday, Feb. 'n. the Center theater
will be the setting for a program by the
Soviet Emigre Orchestra.
This III-member orchestra, directed by
Lazar Gosman, former music director of the
renowned Leningrad Chamber Orchestra,
combines the talents of the finest of recenUy
arrived Soviet emigre musicians from the
Moscow and Leningrad Philharmonic and
Chamber Orchestras.
Coming to the Center theater on March 28
will be a program of mime and music
presented by Jon Harvey. as the mime. and
Joemy Wilson. folk musician.
In their presentation, entitled "Mime
Musica," vocal and instrumental sounds are
used to complement Harvey's per-
formance as a mime. The program rar.ges
from comedy and satire to moments of
....oignancy created by Harvey.
The final concert of the 1~ season will
feature a baroque ensemble of violin. oboe.
cello. bassoon and harpsichord in a program
called " Musical Offering" - named after
one of the final compositions of J. S. Bach.
During the recent annual meeting of the
IWV Concert Association, three incumbents
and two new IT'embers were chosen to serve
on the board of directors for the coming
year. They are Carl Helmick. Doug Sticht
and Gene Younkin. incwnbents, and Jean
Amundson and Peggy Johnson. who are the
new board members.
Five others whose terms of office on the
board of directors are continuing are Gene
Breitenstein, Jeff Grossman, Deanna
Rolph. Lou Ava Seybold and Beaujorn Shull.
Officers who will direct the activities of
the Concert Association for the coming year
were scheduled to be chosen during a
meeting held Tuesday night by the board of
directors.
All active and retired military personnel,
civilian DoD employees and their ramilies
are eligible to attend this special event.
Tickets may be purchased at the In-
formation and Ticket Office located on the
west side of the Community Center. Monday
through Friday from B a.m. until 4 p.m.
through July 1.
Shoppers at NEX,
advised to clip,
save this column
Navy Exchange patrons who may not
know all the personalized services available
and their location in the main retail store
will undoubtedly like to clip this article and
keep it for reference.
Services available include:
In the optical shop: eyeglass prescriptions
filled. contact lenses, sunglasses. and
repairs to glasses and frames.
At the customer service desk : wa tch
repair, camera repair, cobbler repair
(shoes resoled. etc. ). items engraved.
duraplak laminating, wedding invitations
printed. customized Christmas cards.
custom giftwrapping. flowers by wire. dry
cleaning, tailoring, custom-made redwood
signs, business cards printed. rubber
stamps made and baby shoes bronzed.
At the mini-mart: key duplicating. carpet
cleaning equipm~nt rental, television
rental, microwave rental, fishing licenses,
and hunting licenses.
At the jewelry counter: photo finishing.
In the flower shop: plants, fresh cut
flowers, and silk arrangements,
Anyone with any further questions about
services should contact the NEX by cailing
4_707. ext. 30.
~ekend Roundup
Disc Jockey Fred Sweet will be spinning "Oldies but Goodies" tonight on stage at the
Chief Petty Officers' Club. from 9to midnight.
Members and their guests also are invited to enjoy Icelandic cod. prime rib. or other
entrees from the CPO Club's regular menu from 6to 9o·clock.
+++
It's nostalgia time at the Enlisted Mess tonight as "Harvey and the Wallbangers"
present a "musical encounter with the 19505 for the dancing and tistening pleasure of
patrons. The Los Angeles-based group. which features comedian Tom McGillen. will
begin playing at 90·clock.
The dining room will be open from 6 to 9 p.m., WIth porterhouse steak offered as the
special of the evening.
Saturday. diners may choose a steak or shrimp special from 6to 9p.m.
+++
. Medallions of beef will be featured this evening during Membership Night at the
Commissioned Officers' Mess.
A local combo. "Easy Lovin·... will play from 8 to 12 o·clock. Cost for COM members
and spouses is $5 each. and $6 for guests.
June 24, 1983
--
I GI AlLAGESAOMITTEO
w-u l Auch.nc:..
I PG I AllAGESAOMITTEO
P~ rt"'~1 Gu......c. Su.....1'4
1M, MEn. leno
u....... I"_rt' ~H."''''''''",
P~, ...' • • _" ~ ,._
Regular starting time 7:00 p.m.
FRIDAY JUNE 24
" HEIDI'S SONG"
(Animation, rated G, 94 mm_)
SATURDAY, WEDNESDAY JUNE 2S. 2t
"YES GIORGID ~
Starring
Luciano Payarotl! and Kathryn Harrold
(MusicaIlComedy, Rilled PG, tIl min.,
SUNDAY, MONDAY JUNE 28, 27
" AIRPLANE II, THE SEQUEl"
Starring
Robert Hays and Julie Haogarty
(ComedylSpool, Rated PG, 84 min.)
TUESDAY JUNE28
Matinee, 2 p.m.
" MYSTERY OF THE
MILLION DOLLAR HOCKEY PUCK"
Starring
Michael McDonald and Angele KnIght
lAdventure/Orama, RaledG, 89mln_)
THURSDAY JUNE 30
Matinee, 2 p.rn
" LADY AND THE TRAMP"
(Animation, RatedG, 76mm_1
Electronic Warfare
Dept. plans picnic
July 17 at CPO Club
A picnic for the Electronic Warfare
Department (Code 35) has been scheduled
July 17 from 4 to Bp.m. at the Chief Petty
Officers' Club.
Tickets for this event, priced at $6.50 each
for barbecued steak dinners and $2 for hot
dogs will go on sale July 1. The picnic fare
includes baked beans, potatoes, salad, and
soft drinks or beer. Those who attend are
asked to bring a dessert to share.
An assortment of activities, including a
pie-throwing contest, a volleyball game.
sack races, and a water balloon contest,
have been planned for the evening.
Contractors and friends are welcome to
attend the picnic, but they must purchase
tickets in advance at the Code 35 depart-
ment office.
For more information. call NWC ext. 3607
HONORED GUEST - Mrs. Anna Switzer
attended Capt. Lahr's retirement party
Monday during her first visit to China Lake
since 1949. Her late husband. RAdm. W . G.
Switzer, was the third Commander of what
was then the Naval Ordnance Test Station.
now NWC. - Photo by PHAN Greg Hogan
1'~ u.s.Goy.rnrn.nl Printing Offlc.:
191J-No. J2
From :____ ,..----,
PLACE
STAMP
HERE
To:________
I
•
nwc
Change of Command
June 24.1983
Vol. XXXVIII. No. 25
NAVAL WEAPONS CENTER
CHINA LAKE
CALIFORNIA
Capt. Dickerson replaces Capt. Lahras Skipper of NVYC
The mantle of leadership conveying
military command of the Naval Weapons
Center was transferred Tuesday morning
from Capt. Lahr to Capt. Capt. K. A.
Dickerson during a change of command
ceremony that also marked Capt. Lahr's
retirement following 29 years of active duty
inthe Navy.
On a perfect day weatherwise for such an
occasion. Capt. Lahr was not only highly
commended by each of the speakers who
took part in this event. but he also was the
recipient of the Legion of Merit which was
presented on behalf of the President of the
United States by Vice Admiral Robert
Schoultz. Deputy Chief of Naval Operations
(Air Warfare ). headquartered in
Washington. D.C.
Blue sky and the bright green. well-
manicured lawn outside the Headquarters
Building. with its huge shade trees. made a
colorful setting for the white uniform·dad
Navy officers, chiefs and enlisted personnel
who were assembled for this special oc-
casion.
Military swords flashed brightly in the
sun as the ritual of this time-honored
ceremony was carried out, preceded by the
parade of colors by a Navy and Marine
Corps color guard, and martial music
played by the Marine Corps Air-Ground
Combat Center Drum and Bugle Corps from
Twentymne Palms. Calif.
Twice during the ceremony. a flight of
four Navy aircraft zoomed overhead in a
salute to Capt. Lahr. who told about his
intense desire as a young boy to become a
Navy attack pilot. and how he came to
realize that dream,
Vice Admiral Schoultz. guest speaker at
the change of command ceremony, ex-
pressed pleasure at the opportunity this
event provided for him (I) "to recognize the
continuing accomplishments and the im·
portance of the Naval Weapons Center,"
and (2) "to pay tribute to the distinguished
career of an old friend, a superb naval of·
ficer. and a great American. Capt. Jude
Lahr."
The distinguished visitor from the CNO's
office observed that China Lake "has come
to be synonymous with creative thought,
engineering excellence. and quality
weapons."
Mentioned specifically was Sidewinder,
which he cited as a good example of NWC's
approach to cradle-to-grave support of a
weapons system. But there has been much
more, VAdm. Shoultz added.
In more recent times, the Center has
provided important contributions to a wider
variety of Navy programs. Mentioned by
the visitor from Washington were such
things as software support for the A-7E
Corsair II aircraft, and the second sourcing
of the Sparrow missile which. VAdm.
LEGION OF MERIT PRE5-ENTED - The Legion of Merit. in recognition of Capt.
Lahr's "exceptionally meritorious conduct" as NWC Com mander for the past two years,
was presented to the departing Skipper by Vice Admiral Robert Schoultz during
Tuesday's change of command ceremony. - Photo by PHAN Rebecca Gill
,
•
CHANG E OF COMMAND - An exchange of salutes by Capt. Lahr (at right) and Capt.
K. A. Dickerson makes it official as Capt. Dickerson becomes No. 23 on the list of Navy
officers who have commanded the Naval Weapons Center or its forerunner - the U.S.
Naval Ordnance Test Station. Inyokern. - Photo by PHAN Rebecca Gill
Shoultz said "has saved millions of dollars."
"Almost every anti·radiation misSile in
our inventory has the China Lake influence
on it." the speaker continued, noting that
" China Lake has the technical base for
nearly any air-launched missile you care to
name."
It was the view of VAdm. Shoultz that the
accomplishments the Naval Weapons
Center has built up over the years have been
made possible by a "unique chemistry that
exists out here in the high desert.H He
summarized the successsfully-combined
ingredients as:
(I) The close and effeclive working
relationship that exists between military
and civilian personnel. Each group, he said.
brings important qualities that are
necessary to the work being done here.
(2) The presence of Air Test and
Evaluation Squadron Five - a squadron
which he said "adds immeasurably to the
capability and effectiveness of this Center."
(3) The abundance of superb facilities to
support the work. He called the ranges and
test sites at China Lake "some of the best of
their kind in the world." The newest ad-
dition. the Weapons Systems Support
Facility. will not only provide efficient
software support; it will add to the overall
capability of the Center. VAdm. Schoultz
said.
In paying tribute to Capt. Lahr and the
outstanding way he has carried out the
responsibilities of NWC Commander during
his tour of duty here. VAdm.Shoultz said:
" All of you have come to know him by
now. He is far-sighted. tough, filled with
energy. and outspoken," He credited the
outgoing Skipper's efforts with making
China Lake a smart. efficient place which is
appreciated by military and civilian per-
sonnel alike. " These improvements also
have done much to improve the partnership
between military and civilian personnel
which is so important to the success of this
Center." the speaker stated.
VAdm. Schoultz congratulated Capt. Lahr
for "an outstanding tour here as NWC
Commander. and a superb naval career,"
and commended him for his great con-
tributions to the Navy and the nation in
combat or in management roles.
Before leaving the podium. VAdm.
Schoultz extended his best wishes for suc-
cess to Capt. Dickerson as the latter
assumed his new responsibilities. The new
NWC Commander was described by the
speaker as "an attack pilot with a wealth of
operational experience, and with the right
(Continued on Page 3)
Weapons System Support Facility dedicated
A day long-awaited at the Naval Weapons
Center and elsewhere in the Navy among
personnel whose work puts them in the
forefront of aircraft weapons integration
work took place here on June 15, when a
ceremony celebrating the dedication of the
Weapons System Support Facility (WSSF)
was held.
Built in less than two years' time at a cost
of $5.1 million. the WSSF. which adjoins
Hangar 3 at Armitage Airfield, will (during
the coming months) house the F/A-IB
Hornet and the AV~B Harrier program
offices, as well as the laboratories, com·
puting facilities. and shops required to
support these programs,
Because computers and other equipment
which are in use cannot be taken off-tine
simultaneously in order to be moved into the
new building. this will have to be done a bit
at a time. and it will be months before that
effort has been completed and the WSSF is
being utilized toits maximum capability.
Distinguished guests and visitors were
welcomed to the building dedication
ceremony by Dr. Edward K. Kutchma, head
of the Aircraft Weapons Integration
Department, while the ceremonial ribbon·
cutting that signalled the opening of the new
structure was handled by Capt. Lahr and G.
R.Schiefer, Deputy Technical Director.
Principal speaker at the WSSF dedication
was George W. Swiggum, who heads the
Navy Material Command's Laboratory
Planning and Facilities Division,
" Weapons integration activities
culminate a long line of work (ranging from
ideas in a laboratory or on a drawing board
to experimental hardware). and this facility
will provide a cornerstone for ac·
complishing one of the final steps in this
work," Dr. Kutchma said as he introduced
the NAVMAT official.
"I welcome in a number of ways the
opportunity to be present at this dedication.
and to share some thoughts related to the
occasion," Swiggum said. He summarized
these thoughts by stating:
H
I beHeve the way to remain ahead of our
probable enemies must be inexorably
pursued through research and develop-
ment." Swiggum also expressed his view
that the MILCON (military construction)
program is linked inextricably to defense
research and development decisions which
" will insure our military leadership and
technical advantages in the future."
In addition, he painted out that facilities
do not just happen of themselves. It takes a
lot of hard work to get any facility these
days. he added.
"Two imposing challenges face the
(Continued on Page S)
George W. Swiggum
principal speaker
, OCR Text: -
Sea World to host
14th annual Navy
Night fete July 3
San Diego's Sea World will host the 14th
annual Navy Night celebration beginning at
Bp.m. on Sunday. July 3.
For just $5.75 (a 50 percent savings over
the regular admission price) visitors can
enjoy five hours of entertainment including
six new aquatic shows, a special appear-
apce by " Up With People." and the unique
Penguin Encounter.
The penguin exhibit is the only facility of
its kind in the world, It showcases six dif·
ferent species.
APPRECIATION EXPRESSED- Jlln uhr. wife of the former Skipper. tells the group
gllth.red at ~pt. Lahr's retirement ~rty Monday evening how much she and her
husbAnd enjoyed their stay at China Lake and the friendships formed here, as Capt. Lahr
looks at one of the gifts they received. Seen between them is the Larry Zabel painting
that WilS presented as the milior farewell gift from those assembled to wish them well.
Visitors may observe the birds' natural
behaviors from a moving sidewalk that
transports guests past l()o"foot viewing
windows, or on 16 TV monitors placed
around an upper viewing deck.
The energetic musical group "Up With
People" is a youthful combination of
singers, dancers and musicians, who have
presented their dynamic program in
countries around the world.
IWV Concert Ass'n plans series
of six programs next season
In addition. Navy Night will feature
Shamu, the killer whale. in the new show; a
brilliant fireworks display; and unlimited
free rides on the PSA Skytower and the
Atlantis Skyride.
A series of six concerts will be offered
during the 1983-&1 season by the Indian
Wells Valley Concert Association at the
Center theater, beginning next October.
Present Concert Association members
are urged to return their season ticket
renewal forms, so that seat reassignments
for renewing members can be completed
before the sale of season tickets to new
members begins. Seats not reserved by
tomorrow will be subject to reassignment to
other Concert Association members.
Seat changes for renewing members will
be handled from July 5through Aug. 15. with
assignments for new members starting
shortly thereafter. Prospective new
members may contact the Concert
Association by calling 375-5600 at anytime
for information, or to be replaced on the
" new member'I list.
i
The 1983~ concert season is schedulet..!
for a lively opening on Thursday. Oct. 30:
Featured in the inaugural program of the
IWV Concert Association's 37th season will
be the New American Ragtime Ensemble.
This 12-member orchestra was founded,in
1976 and is directed by Tom Maguire. The
group employs the traditional ragtime
instrwnents - flute, piccolo, clarinet,
trumpet, trombone, tuba, two violins, viola,
cello. piano and percussion.
During its concert programs. the New.
American Ragtime Ensemble recreates the
time when ragtime music was the rage by
also appearing in turn-ilf-the century formal
dress.
On Wednesday, Nov. 30. Western Opera
Theater, the San Francisco Opera Center's
touring company, will present a fully staged
version (in English) of Puccini's " Madame
Butterfly."
Coming here on Tuesday, Jan. 10. 1984,
will be the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet.
Brought together in 1979 by the reowned
guitarist Pepe Romero. the Los Angeles
Guitar Quartet combines the talents of four
gifted solo artists.
This group has developed a unique and
widely varied repertoire for guitar en-
Avoid wait at Rx
counter by getting
to pharmacy early
While the NRMC branch clinic pharmacy
will happily refill all prescriptions written
by the clinic or by the Long Beach Naval
Hospital. it will not refill any prescriptions
from other commands.
Prescriptions written by civilian doctors
will not be filled after 4:30 p.m. on weekdays
or on weekends. There will be no exceptions
to this ruling. Clinic pharmacy hours are
7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through
Fridays.
Those who wish to save themselves time
spent waiting are advised to bring their
prescriptions in between 7:30 and 10 a.m.•
or from 12:30to 3p.m.
sembles, ranging from Renaissance
dances to the music of Spain. as well as
music olthe 20th century.
On Monday, Feb. 'n. the Center theater
will be the setting for a program by the
Soviet Emigre Orchestra.
This III-member orchestra, directed by
Lazar Gosman, former music director of the
renowned Leningrad Chamber Orchestra,
combines the talents of the finest of recenUy
arrived Soviet emigre musicians from the
Moscow and Leningrad Philharmonic and
Chamber Orchestras.
Coming to the Center theater on March 28
will be a program of mime and music
presented by Jon Harvey. as the mime. and
Joemy Wilson. folk musician.
In their presentation, entitled "Mime
Musica," vocal and instrumental sounds are
used to complement Harvey's per-
formance as a mime. The program rar.ges
from comedy and satire to moments of
....oignancy created by Harvey.
The final concert of the 1~ season will
feature a baroque ensemble of violin. oboe.
cello. bassoon and harpsichord in a program
called " Musical Offering" - named after
one of the final compositions of J. S. Bach.
During the recent annual meeting of the
IWV Concert Association, three incumbents
and two new IT'embers were chosen to serve
on the board of directors for the coming
year. They are Carl Helmick. Doug Sticht
and Gene Younkin. incwnbents, and Jean
Amundson and Peggy Johnson. who are the
new board members.
Five others whose terms of office on the
board of directors are continuing are Gene
Breitenstein, Jeff Grossman, Deanna
Rolph. Lou Ava Seybold and Beaujorn Shull.
Officers who will direct the activities of
the Concert Association for the coming year
were scheduled to be chosen during a
meeting held Tuesday night by the board of
directors.
All active and retired military personnel,
civilian DoD employees and their ramilies
are eligible to attend this special event.
Tickets may be purchased at the In-
formation and Ticket Office located on the
west side of the Community Center. Monday
through Friday from B a.m. until 4 p.m.
through July 1.
Shoppers at NEX,
advised to clip,
save this column
Navy Exchange patrons who may not
know all the personalized services available
and their location in the main retail store
will undoubtedly like to clip this article and
keep it for reference.
Services available include:
In the optical shop: eyeglass prescriptions
filled. contact lenses, sunglasses. and
repairs to glasses and frames.
At the customer service desk : wa tch
repair, camera repair, cobbler repair
(shoes resoled. etc. ). items engraved.
duraplak laminating, wedding invitations
printed. customized Christmas cards.
custom giftwrapping. flowers by wire. dry
cleaning, tailoring, custom-made redwood
signs, business cards printed. rubber
stamps made and baby shoes bronzed.
At the mini-mart: key duplicating. carpet
cleaning equipm~nt rental, television
rental, microwave rental, fishing licenses,
and hunting licenses.
At the jewelry counter: photo finishing.
In the flower shop: plants, fresh cut
flowers, and silk arrangements,
Anyone with any further questions about
services should contact the NEX by cailing
4_707. ext. 30.
~ekend Roundup
Disc Jockey Fred Sweet will be spinning "Oldies but Goodies" tonight on stage at the
Chief Petty Officers' Club. from 9to midnight.
Members and their guests also are invited to enjoy Icelandic cod. prime rib. or other
entrees from the CPO Club's regular menu from 6to 9o·clock.
It's nostalgia time at the Enlisted Mess tonight as "Harvey and the Wallbangers"
present a "musical encounter with the 19505 for the dancing and tistening pleasure of
patrons. The Los Angeles-based group. which features comedian Tom McGillen. will
begin playing at 90·clock.
The dining room will be open from 6 to 9 p.m., WIth porterhouse steak offered as the
special of the evening.
Saturday. diners may choose a steak or shrimp special from 6to 9p.m.
. Medallions of beef will be featured this evening during Membership Night at the
Commissioned Officers' Mess.
A local combo. "Easy Lovin·... will play from 8 to 12 o·clock. Cost for COM members
and spouses is $5 each. and $6 for guests.
June 24, 1983
--
I GI AlLAGESAOMITTEO
w-u l Auch.nc:..
I PG I AllAGESAOMITTEO
P~ rt"'~1 Gu......c. Su.....1'4
1M, MEn. leno
u....... I"_rt' ~H."''''''''",
P~, ...' • • _" ~ ,._
Regular starting time 7:00 p.m.
FRIDAY JUNE 24
" HEIDI'S SONG"
(Animation, rated G, 94 mm_)
SATURDAY, WEDNESDAY JUNE 2S. 2t
"YES GIORGID ~
Starring
Luciano Payarotl! and Kathryn Harrold
(MusicaIlComedy, Rilled PG, tIl min.,
SUNDAY, MONDAY JUNE 28, 27
" AIRPLANE II, THE SEQUEl"
Starring
Robert Hays and Julie Haogarty
(ComedylSpool, Rated PG, 84 min.)
TUESDAY JUNE28
Matinee, 2 p.m.
" MYSTERY OF THE
MILLION DOLLAR HOCKEY PUCK"
Starring
Michael McDonald and Angele KnIght
lAdventure/Orama, RaledG, 89mln_)
THURSDAY JUNE 30
Matinee, 2 p.rn
" LADY AND THE TRAMP"
(Animation, RatedG, 76mm_1
Electronic Warfare
Dept. plans picnic
July 17 at CPO Club
A picnic for the Electronic Warfare
Department (Code 35) has been scheduled
July 17 from 4 to Bp.m. at the Chief Petty
Officers' Club.
Tickets for this event, priced at $6.50 each
for barbecued steak dinners and $2 for hot
dogs will go on sale July 1. The picnic fare
includes baked beans, potatoes, salad, and
soft drinks or beer. Those who attend are
asked to bring a dessert to share.
An assortment of activities, including a
pie-throwing contest, a volleyball game.
sack races, and a water balloon contest,
have been planned for the evening.
Contractors and friends are welcome to
attend the picnic, but they must purchase
tickets in advance at the Code 35 depart-
ment office.
For more information. call NWC ext. 3607
HONORED GUEST - Mrs. Anna Switzer
attended Capt. Lahr's retirement party
Monday during her first visit to China Lake
since 1949. Her late husband. RAdm. W . G.
Switzer, was the third Commander of what
was then the Naval Ordnance Test Station.
now NWC. - Photo by PHAN Greg Hogan
1'~ u.s.Goy.rnrn.nl Printing Offlc.:
191J-No. J2
From :____ ,..----,
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STAMP
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nwc
Change of Command
June 24.1983
Vol. XXXVIII. No. 25
NAVAL WEAPONS CENTER
CHINA LAKE
CALIFORNIA
Capt. Dickerson replaces Capt. Lahras Skipper of NVYC
The mantle of leadership conveying
military command of the Naval Weapons
Center was transferred Tuesday morning
from Capt. Lahr to Capt. Capt. K. A.
Dickerson during a change of command
ceremony that also marked Capt. Lahr's
retirement following 29 years of active duty
inthe Navy.
On a perfect day weatherwise for such an
occasion. Capt. Lahr was not only highly
commended by each of the speakers who
took part in this event. but he also was the
recipient of the Legion of Merit which was
presented on behalf of the President of the
United States by Vice Admiral Robert
Schoultz. Deputy Chief of Naval Operations
(Air Warfare ). headquartered in
Washington. D.C.
Blue sky and the bright green. well-
manicured lawn outside the Headquarters
Building. with its huge shade trees. made a
colorful setting for the white uniform·dad
Navy officers, chiefs and enlisted personnel
who were assembled for this special oc-
casion.
Military swords flashed brightly in the
sun as the ritual of this time-honored
ceremony was carried out, preceded by the
parade of colors by a Navy and Marine
Corps color guard, and martial music
played by the Marine Corps Air-Ground
Combat Center Drum and Bugle Corps from
Twentymne Palms. Calif.
Twice during the ceremony. a flight of
four Navy aircraft zoomed overhead in a
salute to Capt. Lahr. who told about his
intense desire as a young boy to become a
Navy attack pilot. and how he came to
realize that dream,
Vice Admiral Schoultz. guest speaker at
the change of command ceremony, ex-
pressed pleasure at the opportunity this
event provided for him (I) "to recognize the
continuing accomplishments and the im·
portance of the Naval Weapons Center,"
and (2) "to pay tribute to the distinguished
career of an old friend, a superb naval of·
ficer. and a great American. Capt. Jude
Lahr."
The distinguished visitor from the CNO's
office observed that China Lake "has come
to be synonymous with creative thought,
engineering excellence. and quality
weapons."
Mentioned specifically was Sidewinder,
which he cited as a good example of NWC's
approach to cradle-to-grave support of a
weapons system. But there has been much
more, VAdm. Shoultz added.
In more recent times, the Center has
provided important contributions to a wider
variety of Navy programs. Mentioned by
the visitor from Washington were such
things as software support for the A-7E
Corsair II aircraft, and the second sourcing
of the Sparrow missile which. VAdm.
LEGION OF MERIT PRE5-ENTED - The Legion of Merit. in recognition of Capt.
Lahr's "exceptionally meritorious conduct" as NWC Com mander for the past two years,
was presented to the departing Skipper by Vice Admiral Robert Schoultz during
Tuesday's change of command ceremony. - Photo by PHAN Rebecca Gill
,
•
CHANG E OF COMMAND - An exchange of salutes by Capt. Lahr (at right) and Capt.
K. A. Dickerson makes it official as Capt. Dickerson becomes No. 23 on the list of Navy
officers who have commanded the Naval Weapons Center or its forerunner - the U.S.
Naval Ordnance Test Station. Inyokern. - Photo by PHAN Rebecca Gill
Shoultz said "has saved millions of dollars."
"Almost every anti·radiation misSile in
our inventory has the China Lake influence
on it." the speaker continued, noting that
" China Lake has the technical base for
nearly any air-launched missile you care to
name."
It was the view of VAdm. Shoultz that the
accomplishments the Naval Weapons
Center has built up over the years have been
made possible by a "unique chemistry that
exists out here in the high desert.H He
summarized the successsfully-combined
ingredients as:
(I) The close and effeclive working
relationship that exists between military
and civilian personnel. Each group, he said.
brings important qualities that are
necessary to the work being done here.
(2) The presence of Air Test and
Evaluation Squadron Five - a squadron
which he said "adds immeasurably to the
capability and effectiveness of this Center."
(3) The abundance of superb facilities to
support the work. He called the ranges and
test sites at China Lake "some of the best of
their kind in the world." The newest ad-
dition. the Weapons Systems Support
Facility. will not only provide efficient
software support; it will add to the overall
capability of the Center. VAdm. Schoultz
said.
In paying tribute to Capt. Lahr and the
outstanding way he has carried out the
responsibilities of NWC Commander during
his tour of duty here. VAdm.Shoultz said:
" All of you have come to know him by
now. He is far-sighted. tough, filled with
energy. and outspoken," He credited the
outgoing Skipper's efforts with making
China Lake a smart. efficient place which is
appreciated by military and civilian per-
sonnel alike. " These improvements also
have done much to improve the partnership
between military and civilian personnel
which is so important to the success of this
Center." the speaker stated.
VAdm. Schoultz congratulated Capt. Lahr
for "an outstanding tour here as NWC
Commander. and a superb naval career,"
and commended him for his great con-
tributions to the Navy and the nation in
combat or in management roles.
Before leaving the podium. VAdm.
Schoultz extended his best wishes for suc-
cess to Capt. Dickerson as the latter
assumed his new responsibilities. The new
NWC Commander was described by the
speaker as "an attack pilot with a wealth of
operational experience, and with the right
(Continued on Page 3)
Weapons System Support Facility dedicated
A day long-awaited at the Naval Weapons
Center and elsewhere in the Navy among
personnel whose work puts them in the
forefront of aircraft weapons integration
work took place here on June 15, when a
ceremony celebrating the dedication of the
Weapons System Support Facility (WSSF)
was held.
Built in less than two years' time at a cost
of $5.1 million. the WSSF. which adjoins
Hangar 3 at Armitage Airfield, will (during
the coming months) house the F/A-IB
Hornet and the AV~B Harrier program
offices, as well as the laboratories, com·
puting facilities. and shops required to
support these programs,
Because computers and other equipment
which are in use cannot be taken off-tine
simultaneously in order to be moved into the
new building. this will have to be done a bit
at a time. and it will be months before that
effort has been completed and the WSSF is
being utilized toits maximum capability.
Distinguished guests and visitors were
welcomed to the building dedication
ceremony by Dr. Edward K. Kutchma, head
of the Aircraft Weapons Integration
Department, while the ceremonial ribbon·
cutting that signalled the opening of the new
structure was handled by Capt. Lahr and G.
R.Schiefer, Deputy Technical Director.
Principal speaker at the WSSF dedication
was George W. Swiggum, who heads the
Navy Material Command's Laboratory
Planning and Facilities Division,
" Weapons integration activities
culminate a long line of work (ranging from
ideas in a laboratory or on a drawing board
to experimental hardware). and this facility
will provide a cornerstone for ac·
complishing one of the final steps in this
work," Dr. Kutchma said as he introduced
the NAVMAT official.
"I welcome in a number of ways the
opportunity to be present at this dedication.
and to share some thoughts related to the
occasion," Swiggum said. He summarized
these thoughts by stating:
H
I beHeve the way to remain ahead of our
probable enemies must be inexorably
pursued through research and develop-
ment." Swiggum also expressed his view
that the MILCON (military construction)
program is linked inextricably to defense
research and development decisions which
" will insure our military leadership and
technical advantages in the future."
In addition, he painted out that facilities
do not just happen of themselves. It takes a
lot of hard work to get any facility these
days. he added.
"Two imposing challenges face the
(Continued on Page S)
George W. Swiggum
principal speaker
, China Lake Museum,Rocketeer Newspaper,Rocketeer 1980s,Rocketeer 1983,Rktr6.24.1983.pdf,Rktr6.24.1983.pdf Page 1, Rktr6.24.1983.pdf Page 1