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The Christy Collection

Military Stories and Articles

Service Reflections of MSGT Willie McGee, U.S. Air Force (1974-1998)

Service Reflections of MSGT Willie McGee, U.S. Air Force (1974-1998)

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I was fascinated with aircraft before I could write! Whenever I saw a plane (or even an airship) flying, I would have to stop and just watch it until it was out of sight. I WAS HOOKED whenever I saw the “US Air Force Blue” promotion on (the late 50s) TV! Even now, I remember my first model plane kit, an F-86 Super Sabre, and I was too young to read the instructions telling me I needed glue! Anyways, this love of aircraft stayed with me all through my formative years and into high school. During that time, the anti-Viet Nam movement was escalating. That and my “only son” status made thoughts of joining the military disappear.

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Service Reflections of SSgt Rob Matlock, U.S. Air Force (1979-1999)

Service Reflections of SSgt Rob Matlock, U.S. Air Force (1979-1999)

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My father was in Korea, and he regretted not reenlisting and making the USAF a career. He told us stories of his time in the Air Force with such enthusiasm that I wanted to experience what he described. My uncle on my mom’s side learned to fly helicopters in the AF and talked to me about the training that I could receive in the military and how it could help me get a job if I got out. My girlfriend and I talked to an AF Guard recruiter, and I joined ANG at 17 1/2. I went to Basic, and she decided she did not want to go. She married someone else while I was in photographer training.

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