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Lammert

Inspiration from the Heavens: "Help from Above"

Laura Chighizola

Drawing

11 H x 8 W

Artist Statement
Rosyln “Roz” Schulte was my classmate (class of 2006) and roommate of a dear friend (another classmate who in-processed with me at Doolittle Hall in 2002). I admired Roz’s leadership. I would have been assigned to her cadet squadron (CS-07), but my actual sisters (Jen ‘05 and Kelly ‘08) were already legacy into that squadron following after our brother (‘03). A few years upon graduation, quite a few of our classmates left this earth early. It was heart-breaking and unexpected. When I heard the news of Roz’s passing while serving our country downrange, I was reduced to tears at work. I felt like I had lost one of my sisters. To honor her memory and her unfailing dedication to the Air Force family, I drew a portrait of Roz and also an eagle-on-a-shield drawing with Roz’s name on it. These images were kept by my military work desk and got me through good and yes, also the tough times (there were a lot!). The work-of-art submitted here is the portrait of Roz. Without a doubt, Roz’s “help-from-above” (a reverse play on the words from CS07’s “death-from-above” motto) helped my unit to achieve four consecutive Headquarters Air Combat Command facility wins and ultimately the Headquarters Air Force facility of the year win in 2011. See Checkpoints Online Bonus material (September 2013 issue) for this endearing article called “Don’t Settle for Less” which tells of this story and Roz’s influence in its wings. May her ultimate sacrifice and those of our fallen heroes continue to inspire us. (Love you, Roz!)
About the Artist
A USAFA 2006 graduate - Laura served in the Air Force for ‘06 years. She began drawing at an early age and continues to pursue it. At the Air Force Academy and with the help of classmates, her art made its way into spirit missions involving the Cadet Chapel wall, Mitch’s (dining hall), Sijan parking lot, and dormitory walls. As for her musical side, she started playing the piano around 1991 and began composing music around 1997. Laura also sang for the Academy’s Show Choir and Catholic Cadet Choir in addition to being their back-up pianist. Her love for creating art is captured via original songs, music compositions, photography, drawings, paintings and videography. She enjoys sharing these creations freely through her YouTube channels.

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