Army captain eyes budgets

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Army Cpt. Michael Faber is a contractor specialist with the 30th Contracting Squadron at Vandenberg AIr Force Base, near Lompoc, Calif. | Submitted photo

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Updated: September 29, 2011 12:55AM

Army Capt. Michael Faber, son of Kurt and Virginia Faber of Shorewood, is playing an important part in America’s military space mission at Vandenberg Air Force Base near Lompoc, Calif., as a member of the Air Force’s 30th Space Wing. The wing manages the Department of Defense space and missile testing mission, as well as the placement of satellites to polar orbit from the West Coast.

Faber is a contract specialist with the 30th Contracting Squadron at Vandenberg AFB.

“The 30th Space Wing and its subordinate contracting office, the 30th Contracting Squadron, have agreed to provide me with on-the-job training prior to my deployment to Afghanistan,” said Faber, who graduated in 2000 from St. John Military Academy in Delafield, Wis. “I am learning how to work with military customers and private contractors in order to create legally binding documents, contracts, which meet military needs and provide business opportunities.”

In addition, the Vandenberg mission also includes the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle mission, dealing with nuclear threats, and training students in the missile fields and the growing demand for global positioning system coverage.

“My work is important because writing effective contracts helps me to meet military requirements, such as save money and support the economy, which benefits the military and the federal budget,” said Faber, who is a 2004 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.

With its unique mission and isolated location, Faber and his fellow Vandenberg airmen say they have a lot to offer to the space and missile missions.

“I enjoy the chance to learn by operating in a real-world situation as opposed to a simulated training environment,” said Faber. “I have enjoyed working with another military service.”

Faber has been in the National Guard for 15 months; prior to that, he was on active duty for five years.

Patriotic show

A patriotic show “God Bless America” will be presented Friday at White Fence Farm, 1376 Joliet Road in Romeoville. The dinner show starts at 6:30 p.m.

This is a musical tribute honoring those who served includes dinner of chicken, side salads, corn fritters, choice of beverage and vanilla ice cream.

Tickets cost $38 ($35 each for groups of 15 or more). Veterans and family members receive $5 off. You can call 815-723-8093 to make reservations.

Welcome home

A welcome home meet-and-greet was held June 19 by the Warriors’ Watch Riders, family and friends for Brian Dutler of Plainfield. Dutler served five years in the Navy aboard the guided missile frigate USS Ford.

A party was held in his honor at his family’s home. Dutler was honorabley discharged on June 10. Congratulations Dutler!

Special July 4 service

All veterans and active military personnel are invited to attend a special Fourth of July service at 8 a.m. July 4 at Holy Spirit Catholic Community Church, 2003 Hassert Blvd. in Naperville.

Service will celebrate our nation’s independence followed by a salute and recognition of all veterans and active military. Those attending are urged to wear their awards, insignias, caps or full uniform.

For more information, call 708-707-2074.

Jean Edwards is looking for veterans to write about in her column. She can be reached at 815-439-5312 or e-mail jedwards@stmedianetwork.com.