'Sourdough Sentinel' - Front Cover

Rick Williams and Dave Dodson, Sept. 1980

 SHIFT 43...So you've not heard of the 'Sourdough Sentinel'? Come on now, you can't be serious? You're telling me that you haven't seen the 'famous' photo in the September 1980 issue? Just in case you missed it, I've placed it here in this blog for your viewing pleasure. Or to be used for your friendly game of darts...whatever the case may be. And you probably don't know what a 'sourdough' is either? It is a person who is sour on Alaska and not enough dough to leave. Ha!

Anyway, as my career continued at Elmendorf, I was able to travel back to the big metropolis of Rantoul, Illinois for 3 weeks training at the Air Force Rescueman School during the Spring of 1980. In the picture I'm seen with one of my best buddies (also was my best-man in our wedding), Dave Dodson. Of course the more 'photogenic' me got the headline. Just kidding:) Being part of the 'P-10' crew allowed me a little more spice in my Air Force career.

Notice in the picture the 'Silvers' that we wore. These turnouts also called 'Proximity Suits' were suppose to allow you closer proximity...to the fire. Though many departments still use these today, and though they do provide a 'reflecting' capability they had (or have) several problems including not realizing that you're burning inside like a baked potato, and also a short life span as they wore out much faster than traditional turnout gear. None-the-less they were the turnout of choice during the first 1/3 to 1/2 of my career. Must admit that I am much more fond of the traditional nomex.

See you on the next 'B' shift.