BRIEFLY

0 Comments | Gazette, The (Colorado Springs), Mar 10, 2008

NORAD to help shuttle

NASA's space shuttle mission this week will be supported by the North American Aerospace Defense Command and Northern Command, based at Peterson Air Force Base.

NORAD, the bi-national North American air defense command, will ensure airspace safety and security for the launch and landing. NORAD support consists of fighter planes and Coast Guard helicopters enforcing temporary flight restrictions during shuttle lift-off.

The FAA-imposed restriction and the associated notice to airmen can be accessed at www.faa.gov

NORAD is also prepared to respond to any shuttle emergency by securing the airspace over Kennedy Space Center and numerous launch abort sites should an emergency landing be necessary.

Lowdown on 2nd BCT

Hear firsthand how the 2nd Brigade Combat Team from the 2nd Infantry Division did in Baghdad at a luncheon from 11:10 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 17.

The National Homeland Defense Foundation, the Chamber of Commerce and the Colorado Thirty Group is sponsoring "Strike Force in Baghdad," a community briefing by Col. Jeff Bannister at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

The unit was deployed for 15 months, working to rebuild markets and neighborhoods and reduce violence. For reservations, call 575- 4327 or visit www.coloradospringschamber.org. Cost is $25.

Reserve role expands

Air Force Reserve Command has expanded the role reservists play in space operations by establishing its first space wing at Schriever Air Force Base.

The command activated the 310th Space Wing Friday, an expansion of the 310th Space Group at Schriever AFB.

"Our members have worked very hard over the past 15 years to provide unrivaled support in operating and defending our space systems," Col. Jeff Ansted, 310th Space Group commander said.

The new organization is made up of 16 subordinate units located at Schriever, Peterson and Buckley Air Force bases in Colorado and at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.