My career started about 6 months after high school graduation. I enlisted in the Air Force in December 1970. I was in the ground radio equipment repairman field, ground-to-air communications. I served my 4 years at Lackland AFB, TX; Keesler AFB, MS; 676 Radar Squadron, Antigo WI; Osan AFB, Korea, and finished my tour of duty at Selfridge ANG Base, Mt. Clemens, MI.
Selfridge was turning lose the Air Force electronic technicians while maintaining the Air Force Controller staff. I jumped on board with DoD for 11 years. I worked in the Radio Maintenance shop that later combined with the NAVAIDS shop. I worked on both the radio and NAVAIDS ground based equipments. We were the first to decommission a MRN 7/8 (LOC & GS) and install a new ILS system (Mark 1E/F equivalent to the FAA) with the minimal help from 2 crew chiefs and two airmen out on their first job. The task was completed in 30 days and commissioned. Shortly after, I then worked for Al Gardy in the RADAR shop for my last 3 DoD years. The A-76 contract studies had Selfridge AFB ear marked as 1 of 12 bases on the hit list. Some of my work partners at Selfridge were Randy, Henry, James and John-retired. This event brought me to Milwaukee, WI.
My tenure in Milwaukee ran for 23 years. I was a RADAR/DATA/COM ATSS for approximately the first half. The last half of these years I was the SPS (Systems Performance Specialist) for the ARTSIIIA and then the SS (Systems Specialist) for STARS (Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System). To name a few of my co-team in Milwaukee, (NAV-Bob, Corey, Frank, Gina, John, Steve; ENV-Billy, Dave, Ed, Mike, Brian prior to his move to the Region; RADAR-Aron, Chris, Ken, Melissa, Susan, Tony, Ken H. prior to his departure to Tech Support; Diane who IS the glue in keeping Milwaukee headed in the right direction; the two new CTI guys-Andy & Jake; retirees–Bill, Jim, Rex, Tom & other retirees; Supervisors Joe, Sharon, & prior Tom -TJ). We have many great achievements in the Milwaukee name over these years. We could not have accomplished all this if it wasn’t for the GREAT cooperation that co-exists between AT & AF in Milwaukee.
During my Milwaukee venture I was the PASS Chapter 100 Secretary for Gil Alfaro & Ken Harris for several years. This last year I was the VP for PASS Chapter MW-1 for Ken. In 2007, I attended the PASS National Convention in Chicago as a member. This was an unbelievable event for me. The speakers were fantastic! The manner in which business was completed was extraordinary! That’s when I realized how lucky MW-1 was to have Luke Drake as "OUR" Region 1 VP. Can this guy think on his feet! And get his point across to the membership!! I was so impressed by the overall event that I joined the PASS PAC. Wish I had done it sooner!
I am grateful for the 38 + years that I have given to the Agencies. They have served me well. I have made many-many friends throughout my career, with many being lifetime friends! I have enjoyed working with you and for you, Brothers & Sisters of PASS! My GREAT and MANY Thanks to all of you!
