Training squadron dedicates room to HHH

  • Published
  • By John Ingle
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Two world-class organizations came together again when an 82nd Training Wing squadron dedicated a Hotter 'N Hell Hundred-themed room Feb. 22.

The room at the 361st Training Squadron provides a glimpse of the nation's largest single-day cycling event with news articles, photos, a bright-orange painted wall with the event name above it and a frame cyclist jersey. The squadron's schoolhouse, located in Bldg. 1956, has several themed rooms, but this is the first of its kind on Sheppard.

"This is the first study room decorated with Hotter 'N Hell memorabilia," said Roby Christie, the organization's former executive director. "This is one of a kind."

David Rodgers, a civilian instructor at the squadron, gave some background on how the decision was made to convert the plain classroom into and interesting theme that fits into what the Air Force does as well as tie into the base's community partners. The obvious choice was pairing the Air Force's "Fit-to-Fight" directive and the annual bike race.

Mr. Rodgers said they've already had questions from students about the race and its history.

"It's great, especially the connection with fitness and the connection of the long history of the community and the base," he said.

The event was bittersweet as Joe Schaelling, a 10-year HHH executive director and a retired Air Force major, died a week before the dedication due to complications from a stroke. Mr. Rodgers said Mr. Schaelling had a great history apart from his executive director duties with the HHH.

The dedication was made official Feb. 22 when Brig. Gen. Richard Devereaux, 82nd TRW commander, and Ben Filer, the current executive director of HHH, recognized the union with a ceremonial cake cutting.

The general, an avid cyclist, said he is looking forward to this year's bike race, to which Mr. Christie replied, "We plan to do things different this year."

"If you bring them here, we'll give them a show," General Devereaux said. Sheppard's portion of the race route was a highlight for cyclists as they were able to race through static aircraft displays as well as down a road lined with Airmen, cheering the cyclists on.