by Julie Ray
Air Warfare Center Public Affairs
The “Wheel Mobile” visited the base in November to screen potential contestants
for future tapings. Applicants played a mock version of the game with a
“traveling Pat and Vanna” who were looking for fun, energetic people to play the
game.
Three weeks after making the second cut, 2nd Lt. Eric Mason, of the 99th
Logistics Readiness Squadron, received the call that he was selected to appear
on the game show for his chance to spin the wheel for cash and prizes.
Lieutenant Mason said he believed his personality was a deciding factor for him
to appear on the show.
“During the interview, (the judges) wanted to see how enthusiastic and
personable we were,” he said. “I have a vibrant personality.”
However, Lieutenant Mason almost did not go to the tryouts.
“I stopped watching game shows in 2001 after a disappointing turnout on ‘Who
Wants to Be a Millionaire,’” he said. “I missed the $1,000 question and lost all
my money.”
Thousands of people watched the two days of tapings, and having the military on
the show had a special meaning to hosts Pat Sajak and Vanna White.
“We call the ‘Wheel’ America’s game,” Mr. Sajak said. “Being a veteran myself
who served in Vietnam in 1968 as a radio broadcaster, (the show has) a special
place in our heart for all the armed services.”
Vanna White, who visited Nellis before, explained what a wonderful time she had
and how great the people were.
“The Airmen are very special, to me and what they are doing for us and this
country,” Ms. White said. “Anytime we can do anything to help or support the
military, we’re all for it. We love Nellis, and I hope the Airmen win big
money.”
Big money was only part of what the Airman won. He took home cash and prizes.
“I won $24,450, a 2005 BMW Z4 convertible worth $36,220, and a $1,000 gift
certificate,” Lieutenant Mason said. “I made it to the bonus round by figuring
out a phrase — ‘corny jokes.’ I figured out the phrase because my wife always
tells me that I tell corny jokes. That’s when I won the car.”
Another Nellis Airman, Capt. Ray Pearson, will be featured in Friday’s episode.