In 1977 I enlisted in the Missouri Air National Guard with intentions on serving my country for 6 years and gaining valuable work experience for future job opportunities. After attending basic training and a year of home station active duty, I was hired as a full time Air Guard technician and assigned to work in base operations as an aircraft dispatcher at St. Louis – Lambert International Airport.
After my 6-year enlistment obligation, I decided to extend my career in the Air Guard, and I worked in various positions which included flight management, command and control, and airfield management. I deployed with the 131st FW to various locations around the world including Italy, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Iceland, and Israel. I was promoted to Chief Master Sergeant in 1999 and was honored to serve for a total of 31 years.
Some of my artwork is displayed in the museum.
I developed lasting friendships with the wonderful members of the Missouri Air Guard throughout the years and retired honorably in 2008.
For the rest of Keith’s story, click the pdf below.