MSG CC "Fourth, but First" in football pick 'em contest

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Shane Dunaway
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
The phrase, "Fourth, but First," is often associated with the 4th Fighter Wing, but one group commander is giving that phrase new meaning in a football pick 'em competition in the Goldsboro News-Argus.

Colonel Russell Walden, 4th Mission Support Group commander and diehard Virginia Tech Hokies fan, is listed as the fourth person on the pick 'em page, but he's first in the standings with a 131-64 record thus far. This is Colonel Walden's first year taking part in this type of competition.

"I'm enjoying the camaraderie both on- and off-base," Colonel Walden said. "It's just a friendly competition."

Colonel Walden competes weekly against five other pickers from the local community, including Al King, mayor of Goldsboro.

"I'm dealing with a person who has intelligence access from the base that allows him to determine who will win these picks," Mayor King said. "That's the reason he's winning. He has a special advantage."

Colonel Walden insists he has no rivalries in the league, but he's facing stiff competition from Mayor King.

"Every time I see the mayor, he asks me if I'm using 'Air Force Intel,' to keep my edge," Colonel Walden said.

Whatever Colonel Walden's strategy may be, it's certainly working to his advantage and helping him stay "Fourth, but First."