Adopter program puts out welcome mat

  • Published
  • By Debi Smith
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The 80th Flying Training Wing's sponsoring of its NATO personnel began long before the official ENJPPT program came into existence in the early 1980s.

Initially called the Squadron Adopter Program, incoming personnel were matched so they could be exposed to the Texas culture and introduced to certain people who could assist with legal, housing and government issues.

Over the last three decades, the program has evolved so that NATO neighbors could truly experience the American lifestyle and typical American traditions.

Lt. Col. Willem Van Gaalen, the Netherlands senior national representative, has been assigned to the 80th FTW for almost a year. Although he has traveled quite a bit to Canada and the U.S., he felt strong relief knowing that the Netherlands local sponsors are Noros and Dee Ann Martin. The Martins have embraced every student pilot and instructor from the Netherlands for over 27 years.

The personal relationships they've forged came by assisting with everything from real estate and business leasing to creating Halloween, Christmas and Easter events. The Martins also host an annual weekend excursion for the families at Possum Kingdom Lake.

"To be a sponsor is exciting, fun, and always a learning experience," Dee Ann Martin said. "We do a little and get back so much."

Noros Martin was knighted by Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands for the couple's superb heart and insight into the needs of the Netherlands Air Force. The Martins "friends for life" philosophy has garnered an extended family for themselves back in the Netherlands.

Realizing the diversity and depth that local sponsors put into the program, the sponsors' Hall of Fame was dedicated in 1993. Lt. Col. Rick Blackburn, a member of the 80th FTW Commander's Action Group, the Hall of Fame is dedicated to men and women in the local community who are deserving of special recognition for their support of the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program.

Honorees are selected by the wing commander to commemorate their efforts toward easing the transition of the wing's multi-national personnel into the Texoma landscape and for fostering a spirit of cultural understanding for international personnel, their families and distinguished visitors new to the United States and the Sheppard community.

To date, there have been eleven inductees over a thirteen year period. Too numerous to mention, the highlights of each nominee are listed with the year of induction:

1993: The Honorable Nick and Linda Gipson fostered better cultural understanding of life in the United States as the official sponsors of the United Kingdom detachment.

1993: James Montgomery was the co-sponsor of the German Air Force Squadron from 1967 to 1973. He took over as squadron adoption coordinator from Sheppard from 1973 to 1984. His enthusiasm and hospitality have continued strong support with the region toward international guests since 1984.

1994: Noros and Dee Ann Martin began their support with the Junior League for the German detachment in the 1970s. They expanded to the Royal Netherlands Air Force detachment, sponsoring Dutch students annually to Possum Kingdom Lake and a holiday season brunch. They were decorated by the Royal Family in 1994.

1995: Carter McGregor, a former B-29 pilot with over 33 combat missions in WorldWar II, aided in creating social events. In 1983, he entertained the first NATO chiefs' visit to the 80th FTW at his ranch, including an air show by the Confederate Air Force.

1996: George and Maryann Adams, Norwegian country sponsors since 1981, were awarded the prestigious Saint Olav's medal by the King of Norway for their lengthy support and sponsorship. Mr. and Mrs. Dewayne Travelstead joined the Adams in 1991 as co-sponsors of Norway.

1996: The League of Wichita Falls has been heavily involved in educational charitable pursuits since 1961. They sponsored international students as part of the Allied Student Program. Five years later, they started the International Friendship Program for German students and families. Many went on to include Norway, Italy, The Netherlands and Canada.

1998: Mr. and Mrs. Ray Clymer's involvement in the ENJJPT Players' annual theatre production raised thousands for the local community. Their sponsorship of the NATO air chiefs' visit showcased and promoted the local community to visitors.

1998: Retired Col. Bob and Beth Haley assumed the role of executive director of the area Squadron Adopter Program after serving as wing commander in 1975. As the program bloomed and ENJJPT was created in 1982, it was a natural transition to country sponsor.

2000: Dr. Arvilla Taylor, a professor at Midwestern State University, established the English as a Second Language class and created the annual ENJJPT theatrical production. Under her direction, the community performance flourishes. For the past 13 years, all proceeds have been donated to local charities.

2002: Brig. Gen. and Mrs. Morten Arostol worked extensively with the Burkburnett, Iowa Park and Wichita Falls communities to provide "a home away from home for 12 NATO nations."

2004: Retired Col. Dan and Nanna Powell have been the Denmark country sponsor since 1998 when they assisted in the NATO air chiefs' visit.

2005: Tito and Dr. Elvie Tolentino were inducted into the Hall of Fame. Tito Tolentino was awarded the first ever Global Mission Award in 2001 from former First Lady Barbara Bush.

Hundreds of thousands of hours have been donated by the local community to ensure over 25 years worth of NATO student pilots, instructors and families have found a welcoming home in the Texoma region. Through laughter, heart and a commitment to enriching each other's lives, the 80th FTW and local sponsors have a rare program that guarantees the next 25 years of ENJPPT partnership.