Service Information
Branch (as well as battalion, company, squadron, etc.)
USAF-STRATIGIC AIR COMMAND, Heavy bombers, B-29 and B36 Squadrons. Several home bases-Mt. Home AFB Idaho with the 9th Bomb Wing, The 58th Strategic Recon Squadron, Fairbanks, Alaska Eielson, AFB., 28th Strategic Recon Squadron, Rapid City ,S.D., where I was deployed to the following countries: Guam, Philippines, Tule Greenland, Goose Bay Labrador, Kwajalein Airbase, Midway Island, Hawaiian islands. From these we flew into trouble spots around the world where needed. My training took place in 3 bases in Texas, schooling in Denver at Lowery AFB, Spokane, Washington, Anchorage Alaska and San Francisco, California.

Dates joined and dismissed
Sept, 1951--1955 and 1955-1960 as a civilian

Job description
Bomb Navigation System Specialist

Final rank
Staff Sergeant

Why did you join the service?
The Korean War was going at its peak and every red-blooded American had a choice at age 18 to volunteer or be drafted and since I was 17 and graduating I was already planning on doing my duty to God and country so I joined. I already was flying some and had an interest in aviation.

What do you do now?
For employment
After 58 years of work, I retired 2 years ago. I worked 9 years with the Air Force, 4 active and 5 as a civilian employee. 30 years USPS, and several part time jobs ending as a courier at a local Banking system until heart problems made me quit -- total 58 years.

For pleasure (hobbies, etc.)
Camping, fishing, wood working, travel and Church.

What was the best thing about the service?
DISCIPLINE --- (Not much around today)

What was the worst thing about the service?
Long miserable times away from your loved ones, and hardships involved.

During your transition from active service to veteran, what or who was the most helpful?
Wife and family and church friends.


During your transition from active service to veteran, what or who was the most frustrating?
Lazy people living off others and Government and haven't done a thing to make something of themselves.

What advice would you give to someone entering the service?
Make sure you’re right, and go ahead, after exploring all options.

What advice would you give to someone leaving the service?
Get busy quickly in a trade that has a future or use your service trade schools experience to get employed and then further your education. Stay away from drunks and drugs get grounded in a Church and enjoy life.

As a veteran, what/when was your proudest moment?
Upon returning to this great country and just seeing the lovely landmarks, the Golden Gate Bridge in the west and The Statue of Liberty in the east and knowing that you did your duty to make freedom work and continue. May GOD BLESS AMERICA!