.jpg)
After completing basic and technical training, in 1971, Gary was assigned to Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ, 100SRW, for upgrade training. He was responsible for instruction of aircrew members flying the U-2, DC-130, and T-33 aircraft, in parachuting and survival skills. He was soon promoted to Airmen In Charge of (the) Training Section. This unit had numerous TDY's to Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand. He was promoted to E-3 and E-4 while assigned at DM.
- Assigned to U-Tapao, RTNB, Thailand. Gary taught the usage of survival gear, parachuting techniques, and survival procedures to B-52 aircrew members. He lived in Bang Chang, Thailand and was with the 307th BW. He was in Thailand during the fall of Vietnam and Operation Baby lift.
- Assigned to Cannon AFB, NM, 27th TFW and 481st TFTS, where he was responsible for teaching F-111D aircrew members egress and ejection procedures. Gary developed the first static F-111D egress and ejection procedural trainer in the history of the USAF. He used an ejected module to make this training device. Also, he used another module to teach water survival techniques to crew members.
- Assigned to Pope AFB, NC, 317th TAW. Gary was responsible for keeping the Wing's aircraft configured with all required survival gear as well as conducting survival training, including parachuting techniques to aircrew members. Worked closely with the local Combat Control Team and other special mission units.
- Due to a cutback in personnel, he was cross-trained into Industrial/Occupational Safety.
- Vance AFB Oklahoma, where he learned the new job.
- Assigned to Rhine Main AF, Germany, as the NCOIC of Safety.
- Assigned to HQ MAC, Scott, AFB, IL where he handled manpower issues for the command. This was a one deep slot.
- Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, HQ 21st AF, another one deep slot.
- Offutt AFB, Nebraska, Wing Safety Superintendent and his last duty assignment.
Gary has an associates degree in search and rescue, survival operations, a bachelor's degree in occupational safety and health and a master's degree in psychology.
Senior Master Sergeant (E-8), USAF, Retired
.jpg)