Replies

I joined the Air Force in 1984 at 23. Mainly at that time I looked at it as a job and an escape from Appalachia. I retired from there in 2004.

Somewhere in there I turned patriotic and got a real appreciation for my country. I suppose a lot of if was going to other countries and seeing poverty then recalling some of the bellyachers in this country saying they were "poor".

I met some of the finest people I've had the privilege of knowing while in the service. It was a great adventure where I did things I could never have done as a civilian.

Joined the Army at 18 in 1961 because I had very little direction and in those days you had a minimum of two years facing you unless you were 4F...everybody served. Thought I would get it out of the way...started college while on AD and eventually ended up as a clerk at a NCO Academy in Ft Riley, KS....greatest bunch of mentors a young man could have and to this day am eternally grateful. Got out and went to college, graduated from the University of Illinois in 1967 with a commission in the Air Force. Went to UPT and they said I couldn't see...medically eliminated and interservice transfer in 1968 to the Army and got my wings in 1969. Flew 200+ missions in RVN..then to Germany for an RR tour flying for the MI folks..REFRAD...stayed in the reserves for a few years....and then the dumbest thing I ever did.. resigned my commission... Oh well, I am proud of my achievements and even more proud to have served with America's best. Do it again...?? In a heart beat.