PRESERVING A MILITARY LEGACY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
The following Reflections represents CMSgt Robert Rositer’s legacy of his military service from 1969 to 1994. If you are a Veteran, consider preserving a record of your own military service, including your memories and photographs, on Togetherweserved.com (TWS), the leading archive of living military history. The following Service Reflections is an easy-to-complete self-interview, located on your TWS Military Service Page, which enables you to remember key people and events from your military service and the impact they made on your life. Start recording your own Military Memories HERE.
Please describe who or what influenced your decision to join the Air Force.
The Impact of the United States Air Force Thunderbirds
One of the most significant influences on my decision to join the Air Force was witnessing the United States Air Force Thunderbirds perform at Otis Air Base in Massachusetts when I was a child. The impressive aerial maneuvers and the skill demonstrated by the pilots left a lasting impression on me, sparking a deep interest in aviation and the military.
The Role of the Boy Scouts of America
Another important influence was my experience with the Boy Scouts of America, specifically Troop 22 in East Taunton, Massachusetts. The values, discipline, and sense of service I developed through scouting played a crucial role in shaping my desire to serve my country and pursue a career in the Air Force.
Whether you were in the service for several years or as a career, please describe the direction or path you took. Where did you go to basic training, and what units, bases, or squadrons were you assigned to? What was your reason for leaving?
ASSIGNMENTS
1. July 1969 to August 1969, Basic Training Recruit AB, 3708 Squadron, Flight 1131, Lackland AFB, Texas.
2. August 1969 to November 1969, Student Aircraft Mechanic, Chanute AFB, Illinois
3. December 1969 March 1970, Aircraft Mechanic A1C, (B-52/KC-135), 99th Bomb Wing, Westover AFB, Massachusetts
– March 1970 to September 1970, Aircraft Mechanic Sgt, (B-52 ARC LIGHT) missions over Cambodia & Vietnam, 4252nd Strategic Wing, Kadena AB, Okinawa (Operation Freedom Deal)
– September 1970 to January 1972, Aircraft Mechanic, Sgt, (B-52/KC-135), 99th Bomb Wing, Westover AFB, Massachusetts.
4. January 1972 to April 1973, Aircraft Mechanic, SSgt, (F-4D), 405th Tactical Fighter Wing, Clark Air Base, Philippines- April 1972 to October 1972, Aircraft Mechanic SSgt, (F-4D/E/RF), 523rd Tactical Fighter Squadron, Deployed to 432nd Tactical Fighter Wing, Udorn RTAFB, Thailand
5. April 1973 Discharge from USAF, Travis AFB, California
6. June 1973 Enlisted back in the Air Force, Westover AFB, Massachusetts
7. June 1973 to January 1974, Aircraft Mechanic (FB-111A, KC-135), 509 Bomb Wing, Pease AFB, New Hampshire
8. January 1974 to January 1976, Aircraft Mechanic SSgt, (F-4D/E, F-105G, A-7D, AC-130 / HC-130), 388th Tactical Fighter Wing, Korat RTAFB, Thailand
9. January 1976 to January 1978, Aircraft Assistant Crew Chief, SSgt, (A-10), Edwards AFB, California
10. January 1978 to September 1978 Crew Chief, Participation with Industry Assignment with General Dynamics SSgt, (F16), 75-0747, Edwards AFB, California – February 1978 to April 1978, TDY to Aircraft Crew Chief (43131) Technical Training School, Sheppard AFB, Texas. (Cross-trained into a different career field)
11. September 1978 to January 1979, Aircraft Crew Chief, SSgt, (F-16), 75-0752, Edwards AFB, California
– February 1979 to June 1979, Aircraft Crew Chief SSgt, (F-16), 75-0750, European Test & Evaluation, Bodo AS, Norway, Skrydstrup AS, Denmark, Spangdahlem AB, Germany, Bitburg AB, Germany, Hahn AB, Germany, RAF Alconbury, England- June 1979 to January 1980, Night Shift TSgt (Supervisor), F-16 Test Aircraft, Edwards AFB, California
– September 1979 to December 1979, Day Shift TSgt (Expeditor)(Flight Chief), F-16 Test Aircraft, Edwards AFB, California
12. January 1980 to September 1981 (F-16), Dedicated Crew Chief, TSgt, 62nd Fighter Squadron Commanders Aircraft, 78-0062, MacDill AFB, Florida
13. September 1981 to August 1982 – (F-16), B-Flight Chief TSgt, Aircraft Maintenance Unit, 62nd Fighter Squadron, MacDill AFB, Florida
14. August 1982 to May 1983 (F-16), Aircraft Maintenance Unit Production Superintendent, MSgt, 72nd Fighter Squadron, MacDill AFB, Florida
15. May 1983 to May 1986 (F-16, TR-1, CH-53, HQ Battle Staff, Weight & Balance / Dropped Object Manager), Aircraft Action Officer / Logistics Readiness Center System Controller during crisis situations, prepared General Officer Correspondence, augmented USAFE IG inspection team and Nuclear Security Inspector, Headquarters United States Air Forces in Europe MSgt/SMSgt, Ramstein AB, Germany
16. May 1986 to May 1988 (F-16), Aircraft Maintenance Unit Production Superintendent, Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge, SMSgt, 526th Fighter Squadron, Ramstein AB, Germany
17. May 1988 to May 1989 (F-16), Operational Test & Evaluation Superintendent SMSgt, 57th Fighter Weapons Wing (TAC), Nellis AFB, Nevada
18. May 1990 to February 1991 (YF-23), Advanced Tactical Fighter Early Operational Maintenance Superintendent SMSgt, Edwards AFB, California, DET 5, AFOTEC
19. February 1991 to February 1992 (MC-130/AC-130), Special Operations Maintenance Manager, CMSGT, Edwards AFB, California
20. February 1992 -to January 1994 (F-16), Flight Test Maintenance Chief, Edwards AFB, California
21. Retired from the United Air Force on 1 February 1994, Edwards Flight Test Center, California
If you participated in any military operations, including combat, humanitarian and peacekeeping operations, please describe those which made a lasting impact on you and, if life-changing, in what way?
1970 – deployed to Kadena Air Base, Okinawa- (Supporting B-52D Bombers & KC-135 Tankers that supported the War effort). – President Nixon‘s Secret War > Operation Freedom Deal > which was a U.S. Air Force interdiction campaign waged in Cambodia (later, the Khmer Republic) between 19 May 1970 and 15 August 1973, during the Vietnam War. The initial targets of the operation were the base Areas and border sanctuaries of the People’s Army of Vietnam (PAVN) and the Khmer Rouge. As time went on, most of the bombing was carried out to support the Cambodian government in its struggle against the communist Khmer Rouge. The area in which the bombing took place was expanded to include most of the eastern half of Cambodia.
1972 to 1973 – In 1972, Staff Sergeant Rositer was deployed to the 432nd Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) at Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base (RTAFB) in Thailand. His deployment was in support of OPERATION LINEBACKER, which was launched during the North Vietnam Spring Offensive and marked a decisive effort to bring the Vietnam War to an end. During his service in Vietnam, Staff Sergeant Rositer received several honors for his contributions. He was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm. Additionally, the unit he served with received the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor device, recognizing their exceptional performance. After the conclusion of OPERATION LINEBACKER and North Vietnam’s return to the peace negotiations, Staff Sergeant Rositer completed his assignment with the 405th Tactical Fighter Wing at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. This marked the closing phase of his involvement as the Vietnam War drew to its end. Throughout his military career, Staff Sergeant Rositer was also stationed at several other locations, including Westover, Massachusetts; Kadena, Okinawa; Pease, New Hampshire; Korat, Thailand (where he received the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal); MacDill, Florida; Ramstein, Germany; and Edwards Air Force Base in California.
1974 to 1976 -was reassigned to the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing, Korat, Thailand, in support of ongoing operations in Southeast Asia and Operation Frequent Wind, Eagle Pull & Mayaguez incident. For his contributions during these missions, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal was awarded as recognition of service and dedication in these challenging operations.
Did you encounter a situation during your military service when you believed there was a possibility you might not survive? Please describe what happened and what was the outcome.
I was on duty during the attack as an F-4 flightline mechanic. The group of Guerrilla sappers was stopped before getting to my flight ramp dispatch hooch located near the aircraft parking revetments, where the intruders were neutralized.
On October 3, 1972, a sapper attack occurred at Udorn RTAFB (Royal Thai Air Force Base) in Thailand, where a small group of guerrillas attempted to breach the base’s industrial area and aircraft. One Thai security guard was killed, and two Americans and two Thais were wounded during the incident. The attackers were quickly neutralized by base security forces, preventing significant damage to aircraft.
The attack occurred during Operation Linebacker 1972, a period of heightened communist activity and security concerns at Thai bases, which were crucial for U.S. operations in Southeast Asia.
Of all your duty stations or assignments, which one do you have the fondest memories of and why? Which was your least favorite?
Memorable Assignments in My Air Force Career
Reflections on My Assignments
Throughout my Air Force career, each assignment brought with it memorable experiences that contributed to a complete and fulfilling journey. I cherish the memories from every duty station, viewing each location as a place where the Air Force needed my expertise. There were no assignments that I considered least favorite; every station had its own unique significance.
The 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Unit at MacDill AFB
Among all the assignments, the 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Unit (AMU) at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida stands out as particularly memorable. The team there was outstanding, and the camaraderie was exceptional. My comrades consistently looked out for one another, and this supportive atmosphere extended all the way up to the Wing Commander.
Unique Experiences at Each Duty Station
As is common in the Air Force, each assignment offered different experiences, with both positive and negative moments. These varied experiences helped shape my career and personal growth, making every duty station an important chapter in my Air Force journey.
From your entire military service, describe any memories you still reflect on to this day.
Memorable Reflections from My Military Service
Unforgettable Flight Experiences
One of the most vivid memories I continue to reflect on is my experience flying in an F-16B model aircraft at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida. The opportunity to fly four times in such an advanced fighter jet remains a highlight of my military career. Each flight brought a unique sense of excitement and accomplishment that I cherish to this day.
Another significant flight experience was my Memorial Day flight in the T-38 aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base, California. The combination of honoring the occasion and flying a remarkable jet made this memory especially meaningful.
Camaraderie and Friendships
The camaraderie shared among military members, during both good and challenging times, stands out as a hallmark of my service. The sense of unity and mutual support forged in various circumstances helped build strong bonds among us.
Many of the friendships I formed with my comrades during my time in the military have endured over the years. These long-lasting relationships continue to be a source of strength and connection, reminding me of the deep ties created through shared experiences.
What professional achievements are you most proud of from your military career?
When joining the United States Air Force, I set clear expectations for myself and was committed to upholding the values and standards of the Air Force, maintaining discipline, and continuously striving for personal and professional growth. I expected to work collaboratively with my peers, demonstrate reliability in all assigned tasks, and make a positive contribution to my unit’s mission.
My motivation to succeed in the Air Force was rooted in a strong desire to achieve excellence and overcome challenges, learn from each experience, and persistently work toward my goals. This drive pushed me to remain focused, proactive, and resilient, ensuring that I reached my full potential while serving my country.
Of all the medals, awards, formal presentations, and qualification badges you received, or other memorabilia, which one is the most meaningful to you and why?
Throughout my military career, I have received various medals, awards, formal presentations, qualification badges, and memorabilia. Each item holds significance, but some stand out as especially meaningful to me.
Air Force Systems Command Master Crew Chief Award & Patch
One of the most meaningful recognitions I received was the Air Force Systems Command Master Crew Chief Award and Patch. This honor was presented to me at Edwards Flight Test Center in California. The award not only symbolized technical expertise and leadership but also represented the trust and respect earned from my peers and supervisors during my tenure at the flight test center.
Master Maintenance Badge
Another highly significant achievement was being awarded the Master Maintenance Badge while serving as an E-7 (9-Level) Aircraft Production Superintendent. This badge signified a high level of proficiency and responsibility in aircraft maintenance, and being recognized at this level was a source of great pride and validation of years of dedication and hard work.
Which individual(s) from your time in the military stand out as having the most positive impact on you and why?
SMSgt Terry Shawler – Maint Super, Edwards AFB, CA – Early career Mentor
SMSgt Stanley Olsen – Aircraft Evaluator, Edwards AFB, CA – Excellent Flight Line Trainer
SMSgt Richard Cordrey – Production Super, MacDill AFB, FL – Flight Line Maint Mentor
SMSgt Paul Thomas – NCOIC, MacDill AFB, FL – Learned about Leadership
Maintenance Officers that I looked up to.
Chris Westergard – Maint Officer, MacDill AFB, FL
George Banghart – Maint Officer, Ramstein HQ, Germany
Robert Bondaruk – Maint Officer, Ramstein HQ, Germany
Mark Johnson – Maint Officer, Ramstein HQ, Germany
Pat McCredie – Maint Officer, AFOTEC, Edwards AFB, CA
Bob Luchetti – Maint Officer, Edwards AFB, CA
LTC Paul Thompson – USAFE/LGMA, Ramstein AB, Germany – Exceptional Leadership skills
LTC Bob Dobbs – Squadron Commander, Ramstein, Germany – Exceptional Leadership skills
LTC Richard Harrington, OT&E Test Director, AFOTEC, Edwards AFB, CA – A Mentor & Leader
LTC Tom Ostermann, Test Director for Advanced Tactical Fighter Program, Edwards AFB, CA – A Mentor & Leader. Finally got me promoted to CMSGT (E-9)
LTC Leroy Stutz, Squadron Commander & POW, MacDill AFB, FL – A Mentor & Leader
Col. Ben Fruehauf, Deputy Commander for Wing Maint, MacDill AFB, Fl – A Mentor & Leader
Col Hank Canterbury, Wing Commander, MacDill AFB, FL – A Mentor & Leader
Col James Terry, HQ USAFE/LG, Ramstein AB, Germany – A Mentor & Leader
Gen Henry Viccellio, HQ TAC/CV, Langley AFB, Va – Exceptional leadership skills.
Gen Robert Rutherford, 17th Air Force (USAFE), Sembach, Germany – Exceptional Leadership skills
Gen John Jumper, 57th Fighter Wing, Commander, Nellis AFB, NV – Exceptionally strong Leadership skills
General Wilbur “Bill” Creech, HQ TAC/CC, Langley AFB, Va – A visionary who transformed aircraft Maintenance.
List the names of old friends you served with, at which locations, and recount what you remember most about them. Indicate those you are already in touch with and those you would like to make contact with.
Staying Connected with Old Friends
Throughout my assignments and travels around the world, I have had the privilege of meeting countless friends. The number is so great that it would be impossible to mention each one individually. Despite the inevitable passage of time and the distances that separate us, I make a consistent effort to maintain these relationships. Using various platforms—such as Facebook, email, Messenger, and Line—I stay in touch with many of the friends I have made along the way.
Honoring Fellow Veterans
Every Veteran I have encountered holds a special place in my heart and soul. The connections I have formed through shared experiences remain deeply meaningful, and I carry the memories and camaraderie with me wherever I go. These bonds are lasting, and I continue to honor the service and friendship of my fellow Veterans.
“Still Serving, Veterans Helping Veterans”
Can you recount a particular incident from your service, which may or may not have been funny at the time, but still makes you laugh?
During one assignment, there was a staged photograph taken for comedic effect. In the photo, a jet engine appeared not to fit because it was installed backward, highlighting the lighter side of maintenance work and providing a memorable moment for the team.
We were deployed multiple times to both Lajes Field in the Azores and Sigonella Air Station in Sicily. The primary mission was to ferry F-16 aircraft as part of international operations.
What profession did you follow after your military service, and what are you doing now? If you are currently serving, what is your present occupational specialty?
Transition to Industry Leadership
After completing a distinguished career in the United States Air Force, I joined McDonnell Douglas, later Boeing, in March 1994. My role as Manager and Senior Industrial Engineer focused on the manufacturing, assembly, and delivery of the C-17 aircraft at the Long Beach, California, facility. I was responsible for developing efficient work plans aimed at achieving program cost and schedule milestones. Through these efforts, the team was able to deliver C-17 aircraft on time to the customer, beginning with aircraft #P11, and achieved the remarkable milestone of zero defects during delivery.
Advancement with Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
In March 1997, I was hired by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics as a Flight Test Control Engineer for the F-16 Test Program at Edwards Air Force Base. My dedication and expertise led to my appointment as Senior Aeronautical Engineer in April 2002. In this capacity, I played a key role in almost every modified F-16 test aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base and contributed significantly to every program assigned to the F-16 Combined Test Force throughout my career. In addition, I was entrusted with several Trusted Agent (Special Access) assignments in support of the F-35 and Data Masked programs.
Legacy of Service and Innovation
Following more than 24 years of service in the United States Air Force, three years with McDonnell Douglas/Boeing Aircraft Company, and a distinguished 12-year career with Lockheed Martin Aeronautics working on cutting-edge flight test programs, I retired at the world’s premier Flight Test Center. My career has been marked by substantial contributions to the advancement and operational effectiveness of some of the world’s most advanced and capable military aircraft.
Since retiring from the State, I have been “retired” for good.
What military associations are you a member of, if any? What specific benefits do you derive from your memberships?
VFW Life Member #4752984, Post 9951/12074, Bangkok/Chiang Mai, Thailand
VFW Gold Legacy Life Member #475984, Post 12074, Chiang Mai Thailand
VFW Pacific Areas, District V Elected Trustee (2017 to 2019)
VFW Pacific Areas, District V (All American Team), Appointed Adjutant (2019-2020)
VFW Pacific Areas, District V, Post 12074 (All American Team), Post Senior Vice Commander Elected (2020-2021)
VFW Pacific Areas, District V, Post 12074 Honor Guard Detail (2020 -2023)
VFW Department of Pacific Areas, Appointed Special Aide-de-Camp to the VFW Commander-in-Chief, (2023-2024)
VFW Pacific Areas, District V, Post 12074 Elected Delegate (2021-2026)
VFW Pacific Areas, District V, Post 12074, Post Junior Vice Commander Elected (2025-2026)
VFW Military Order of the Cooties (M.O.C) #123 > Life Member (#42122 / 4-Red Stars)
Past Tight Wad Elected (2018-2019)
Past Pup Tent 6 Seam Squirrel Elected (2019-2021)
Past VFW M.O.C. Grand of the Pacific Councilman V Elected (2019-2021)
VFW National Home > Life Member #20322861
Pacific Areas Paddy Daddy > Life Member #600
American Legion Paid Up for Life Member Post TH01, Ubon, Thailand #100727264
American Legion Post TH01, Activities Committee Member (2023-2026)
American Legion Riders (ALR) TH01, Assistant Director (2021-2026)
American Legion Post TH01, Member At Large, Elected (2025-2026)
American Legion Post TH01, Executive Committee Member (2025-2026)
Associations
AC-130 Gunship, SPECTRE Association Life Member #348
Together We Served Lifetime Member #205926
Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) Life Member #642910, MIG Alley Chapter
In what ways has serving in the military influenced the way you have approached your life and your career? What do you miss most about your time in the service?
Serving in the United States Air Force instilled in me a strong sense of accountability and the value of teamwork among my fellow airmen. Each member of the team understood their responsibilities and worked together to achieve our shared objectives. This collective commitment ensured that we operated as a well-oiled machine, with everyone focused on the mission at hand and supporting one another to accomplish our goals efficiently.
Based on your own experiences, what advice would you give to those who have recently joined the Air Force?
To excel in your career, it is important to work hard, continuously develop your professional skills, and always maintain honesty. There may be moments when you feel overlooked or forgotten, but remember that your efforts are always noticed by someone. In time, your dedication will be recognized, and you will be offered opportunities to advance.
The Air Force operates as a well-oiled machine, flourishing on the commitment of its members. The system continually seeks individuals who deliver results through dedication and hard work. Focus on your own performance rather than comparing yourself to what other airmen are doing or not doing.
Strive to be the person who approaches challenges with energy and strength. Taking initiative and maintaining a positive attitude will help set you apart and contribute to your own growth and success.
At the end of your service, you will look back on a fulfilling career with memories that will last a lifetime. Once you pass the initial four years, you may find that things become easier, especially as you earn additional stripes and advance in rank.
Bobby Rositer, USAF CMSGT (Retired) Go Air Force…
In what ways has TogetherWeServed.com helped you remember your military service and the friends you served with?
The services and support provided by Together We Served are truly exceptional. Through their work, they make certain that the experiences and contributions of veterans are not forgotten. Their dedication is evident in their commitment to fostering strong connections among veterans, both from the past and present.
The continued efforts of Together We Served are crucial in maintaining the spirit and memory of military service for generations to come. By honoring and sharing these stories, they ensure that the values and sacrifices associated with military service remain a vibrant part of our collective history.
I extend my heartfelt salute to the Together We Served team for their unwavering commitment to the veteran community. Their ongoing dedication makes a lasting impact and truly honors the legacy of those who have served.
PRESERVE YOUR OWN SERVICE MEMORIES!
Boot Camp, Units, Combat Operations
Join Togetherweserved.com to Create a Legacy of Your Service
U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Coast Guard
SHARE:
0 Comments