USO Archives - TogetherWeServed Blog

A1C Bob Baxter, U.S. Air Force (1962-1966)

My South East Asia Experience: Working on the Canberra B-57, November 10, 1963, to May 9, 1965: I joined the Air Force at the age of 19 in 1962 for no reason other than that I was unemployed, immature, and had no goals or direction for my future. My recruiter told me that aircraft mechanics were needed, and I fit their profile. So, off I went to Basic Training, followed by Technical Training at Amarillo AFB. I graduated as an aircraft mechanic helper. My OJT continued at Scott AFB, Illinois, until November 1963. This was the start of the aviation career that I have pursued for over 50 years. As I reflect on those years from 1962 to 1966, I can see why so many of us young men grew up quickly. We had some good times and some exceptionally bad times, but we bonded together. Many of us were lucky and came home. I was able to take full advantage of the extensive training and experience provided to me during my four years in the Air Force. I was convinced early that I would stay in the Air Force for thirty years. On November 1, 1964, the reality of war hit home.

Service Reflections of SP5 Michael Hall U.S. Army (1968-1976)

Army Reflections, Vietnam War

I spent 8 years in the US Army and wanted to make a career out of it and retire. I began with Basic at Ft. Campbell, Ky., the coolest place I’d ever been to. Then, I took Advanced Infantry training at Ft. McLellan, Ala. This place was a mini Vietnam, as it had the highlands and swamps. Afterward, Ft. Benning, Ga., and on to Nam. After my tour, I ended up at Ft. Bragg, NC, and was sent to Parachute Rigging School in Virginia. Learning to pack your own chute was definitely a confidence builder! My direction changed when the military was converted to a voluntary unit while stationed at Ft. Bragg. Now you have people who couldn’t even read a map telling you where to jump from the Huey or whatnot. People were getting promoted for the wrong reasons, and I knew then my time was up.

Lt Tom Ewell, U.S. Navy (1942-1945)

Celebrities Who Served, World War II

Tom Ewell, of the United States Navy between 1942 and 1945, interrupted a successful career as a stage actor in order to protect the merchant shipping vital to the country’s war effort as part of the US Navy Armed Guard. Born Samuel Yewell Tompkins in Kentucky during the year 1909, he was expected to join the family professions (either law or tobacco and whiskey dealing) but instead pursued acting. In 1928, he began acting in summer stock while attending the University of Wisconsin. Determined...

Service Reflections of SSG Kevin Lipinski, U.S. Army (2002-2018)

Army Reflections, Global War on Terror

I wanted to serve my country, but it took about a year after 9-11 to decide, and I was still on the fence, so I did the National Guard first, and I found out I loved it and went active. I also have a strong family military tradition that is important to me. As they say, the rest is history

The History of Bob Hope USO Shows

Military Myths and Legends, Vietnam War

Anyone who is even vaguely familiar with the USO knows a little about the history of Bob Hope’ USO shows. Since 1941, the United Service Organizations has provided support to the service members of the United States military. At all stages of a service member’s active duty and even beyond, USO volunteers are ready to provide support. At enlistmentOn deploymentWith their familiesAway from homeWhen injured in serviceReturning to civilian life The History of Bob Hope USO Shows Bob Hope’s USO...

Women Of The Vietnam War