July issue of Airman available Published July 2, 2003 SAN ANTONIO (AFPN) -- Learn about the first group of airmen to fly around the world, take a look at the opening strike of Operation Iraqi Freedom and read about Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Gerald Murray and his journey to represent the enlisted force. These features and more highlight the July issue of Airman magazine, now available in print and online at http://www.af.mil/news/airman.Magellans of the Sky -- Others have done it faster, quicker, without stopping and with other record-setting variations, but being the first group to actually fly around the world is a distinction achieved in 1924 by a daring group of Army Air Service aviators. At the time, their accomplishment was cheered. However, they don’t share the lasting legacy of fellow aviators such as Charles Lindbergh or Orville and Wilbur Wright.Snapshots from the War -- Hostilities in Iraq ended sooner than many expected, but airmen supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom didn’t waver in their determination to bring about a swift end. Take a look at a few behind-the-scenes activities during the war and see the flavor and flair airmen brought to the fight.The First Shot -- When intelligence reports said Saddam Hussein might be holed up in a little-used bunker in heavily defended Baghdad, the decision to launch an attack rested on one question: Was an air strike possible? The Air Force answered, “Yes.”Bashur or Bust -- Life was tough at Bashur Airfield, Iraq, during the height of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Cargo planes landed day and night, giving airmen lots of work and little time off. Living conditions were hellish. But the airmen proved the contingency response group works.Up from the Flight Line -- Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Gerald Murray describes his journey from aircraft maintainer to enlisted advocate and what representing airmen everywhere means to him. His tenure has kept him busy, but he is grateful for the opportunity to represent and lead the enlisted force.The Long, Winding Road -- Serving more than 41 years in Air Force blue, Chief Master Sgt. Norman Marous is a rarity. He witnessed changes most bluesuiters only read about in history books. Yet, he continues to serve because he enjoys his duties and making a difference in other people’s lives.