They Served With Honor 2018 by Mid-Valley Media

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 10th

They Served With Honor

“Thank a veteran for their service!”

Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Veterans eter Day ay

Albany Democrat-Herald/Corvallis Gazette-Times/Lebanon Express/Philomath Express

2018

Schedule Saturday, Nov. 10 Optimist Club Annual Pancake Breakfast 6:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. - West Albany High School - Cost $8 per person, $4 Veterans/Military/children under the age of 12. Veterans Day Memorial Service 8:30 a.m. - Linn Co. Veterans Memorial, Timber Linn Memorial Park, Albany POW/MIA and Gold Star wreaths will be placed in remembrance. “Oregon’s Own” 234th Army Band will perform a medley of service songs, guest speakers will honor all. Oregon Army National Guard Bravo Battery, 2-218 FA - 21 gun salute and Taps will be sounded. Coffee served on site beginning at 7:30 a.m. – provided by Dutch Bros. Coffee

Albany Veterans Day Parade 11 a.m. - 67th annual Albany Veterans Day Parade. Third largest Veterans Day Parade in the Nation and the largest West of the Mississippi! The Parade marches through Historic Downtown Albany. Join with us as we honor all our honored veterans with personal salutes and shouts of Welcome Home! Veterans Day Parade Awards Ceremony (following the end of the parade) 2:30 p.m. - Immediately following the Veterans Day Parade on the steps of the Linn County Courthouse. (4th Ave. SW and Broadalbin) Awards for those judged while on the parade route. Please have representatives present: Bands, Marching units and Color Guards. Source: https://www. albanyveteransdayparade.org/

Parade Route Albany parade begins at 11am, Saturday, Nov. 10, and finishes at Linn County Courthouse, Fourth Avenue and Broadalbin Street

Veterans Day 2018

Albany Democrat-Herald/Corvallis Gazette-Times/Lebanon Express/Philomath Express

Thank a Veteran Today!

Saturday, November 10, 2018

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They Served With Honor ★

Agle, George ....................................................................... Pg. 06 Bishop, Peggy ..................................................................... Pg. 07

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Coomes, Dawn .................................................................. Pg. 08 Dufour, Peter ..................................................................... Pg. 10 Fagnan, Ann ....................................................................... Pg. 11 Fief, Don ...............................................................................Pg. 12

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Thank You Veterans ........................................................ Pg. 13 Haberkorn, Chuck .......................................................... Pg. 15

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Hampton, Bob ................................................................... Pg. 16 Hayden, Fred ..................................................................... Pg. 18 Long, Sue ............................................................................. Pg. 19 Lykins, Trent ...................................................................... Pg. 20

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Oster, Floyd ........................................................................ Pg. 23 Patterson, Randy ............................................................. Pg. 24 Spandri, Walt ..................................................................... Pg. 26 Stevens, Denny .................................................................. Pg. 27 Thomsen, Neil ................................................................... Pg. 28 Wimer, Don ........................................................................ Pg. 30 Yaden, Boyd ....................................................................... Pg. 31

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Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018 VETERANS DAY

2018

I am very proud to be an American

ith our country and the world in such turmoil, talking with the men and women who proudly served this past month, was like a breath of fresh air. From an almost 100 year old Marine Corps Veteran who marched for President Franklin Roosevelt to a young man who served

during the Persian Gulf War, the 18 Veterans I talked to were originally from different parts of the country, served in different branches and had different experiences. They did however all have two things in common — they are very patriotic and they are very humble when describing their service. Many I spoke with wore something that denoted their service — a hat, a pin, a shirt, a ring. Some remembered details better than others. Some felt they didn’t do anything special. In all of these remarkable men and women however, I could see a certain amount of pride when they spoke about their service. They felt they contributed.

u o Y k n a Th For Your Y Service

and Dedication To ALL that Served

Albany Democrat-Herald/Corvallis Gazette-Times/Lebanon Express/Philomath Express

They learned trades, they rose in rank, they made friends, and married spouses. Some were injured while others never stepped foot outside the United States. The bottom line for all of them was the fact that they served and they served proudly. I have a lot of family members who have served or who are serving in the military so I grew up understanding the importance of serving. Talking with these distinguished Veterans was a joy. They told their own stories the way they wanted to, with the knowledge that they had done their jobs, whether it was baking a cake or fixing a jet engine, to the best of their abilities. Some of the veterans were more than ready

to talk, others were a bit more reluctant. To each and every one of them who shared a moment in their lives, their thoughts and encouragements for future generations, I thank you. You are all heroes, whether you served in peace time or in time of war, whether you spent your entire time in the United States or you went into war zones. Thank you so much for talking with me. When you see a Veteran, please thank them for their service. If you both have some time, sit down and chat with each other. You’re liable to learn a lot about the military and also about life. — Kay M Roth

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How to talk to your kids about Veterans Day

Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Four questions about Veterans Day answered remember those who lost their lives while serving in the U.S. military. Veterans Day is intended to honor all Americans, living and dead, who’ve been in the armed forces. It’s a time to thank the veterans in our communities as well as the men and women who are currently serving our country.

IS VETERANS DAY CELEBRATED IN OTHER COUNTRIES?

In honor of Veterans Day 2018 (the centennial of Armistice Day), we answer four common questions about the holiday. Veterans Day can be a difficult holiday for children to grasp. It’s embedded with mature themes like war, sacrifice and patriotism and is much more somber than occasions that occur around the same time like Halloween and Thanksgiving. Nevertheless, it’s good for children to understand the significance of Veterans Day from a young age so they don’t come to see it as just another day off from school. Here are some tips for talking to children about Veterans Day. • Make sure they understand what a veteran is. Explain to your children that a veteran is anyone who’s served in the armed forces and put themself in danger to defend their country. If you have friends or family members who are veterans, indicate this to your children and

consider having these individuals talk with them about their experiences serving. • Explain the meaning of Veterans Day. Tell your kids that Veterans Day is a time reserved for thanking all the veterans in our families and communities for risking their lives to protect us. That’s why we celebrate veterans with parades and other tributes on this day. • Ask them to choose a way to celebrate Veterans Day. Suggest some ways that you can honor vets as a family this Veterans Day; for instance, by attending a parade, making thank-you cards and care packages or volunteering in a local veterans home or hospital. Ask your kids to choose what activity you do and explain why they think it’s the best way to support veterans. After you get home, discuss the experience and what you learned as a family.

In countries like Canada, the UK, France and Australia, November 11 is a day to remember the armistice that ended World War I and those who fought in their countries’ armed forces. In these countries, however, the focus is on remembering those who sacrificed their lives rather than honoring living veterans.

WHEN IS VETERANS DAY OBSERVED? Veterans Day is always observed November 11, a date that commemorates the peace agreement signed on November 11, 1918 that brought an end to the fighting during World War I. Since Veterans Day falls on a Sunday this year, some federal government offices, schools and businesses may be closed on Monday, November 12 in observance of the holiday.

HOW IS VETERANS DAY DIFFERENT FROM MEMORIAL DAY?

YOU Find the Perfect Home!

Although Veteran’s Day and Veterans’ Day are commonly used, the correct spelling is Veterans Day. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website, the possessive form is incorrect “because it is not a day that ‘belongs’ to veterans, it is a day for honoring all veterans.”

Memorial Day, celebrated each year on the last Monday in May, is a day to

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WHICH SPELLING IS CORRECT: VETERANS DAY, VETERAN’S DAY OR VETERANS’ DAY?

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Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

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Veteran Times Two le

Ag George

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

eorge Agle spent time in the military twice- two different branches and two different eras. “I tried to do the best I could,” he said recently about both of his military stints. Agle said both of his times taught him discipline and gave him some good life tools. First, the Michigan native, spent 1964 to 68 in the US Marine Corps. Agle spent his Marine Corps basic training in San Diego. He then attended specialty school, learning to be an ammo man. This allowed him to work with 81 mm mortars. In addition to being mentally able to do the job, Agle said everyone had to be physically ready too. “The pack was as heavy as I was.”

As a Marine, he received a Presidential Unit Citation for his service in Viet Nam. Years later, he spent time as a member of the Michigan Army National Guard. As a member of the Army National Guard, Agle received a Bronze Star while on active duty during Operation Desert Storm for supplying direct support to front line troops. Agle spent a year overseas. “We were in Okinawa for a little over a month,” Agle said, adding that the time there helped the unit he was attached to prepare for the heat and humidity of Viet Nam. The next ten and a half months of Agle’s overseas tour were spent in Viet Nam in 1965 to 66. As part of Operation Double Eagle, Agle and his fel-

low Marines worked hand in hand with the Army of the Republic of Vietnam. In addition to Viet Nam, Agle was also stationed at Camp Pendleton, Okinawa, and Virginia. He also attended baker’s school at Camp Lejeune. Because he was so good at baking, he spent the last two and a half years in the Marines as a baker. Six years after his discharge, the National Guard came calling. They actually recruited him to enlist and work as a baker. This time, Agle’s job was in the support of front line troops. “I worked in the bakery.” In most of the locations Agle was stationed, that meant working out of the mainte-

nance tent. Agle spent 16 years and two months in the Guard and was on active duty from September 22, 1990 through March 28, 1991 as part of Operation Desert Storm. Agle said both of his stints taught him a lot. He suggested young people really think before deciding to enlist but that, if they do, take in as much as possible. “Don’t join unless you’re willing to work at it.” He explained that nothing comes easy. Now, is his later years, Agle said he like living in Oregon. His children, who had located here, convinced Agle to move to Oregon. He said he’s happy he did.

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Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Growing Up Military hop

is Peggy B

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

eggy Bishop grew up understanding what it meant to be part of a team when it came to military life. “I was an Army brat,” the Corvallis resident said. Born in Yakima, Washington, Bishop said her family lived in a number of other places, including Portland. She has lived in Corvallis since 2008. “I really like it here,” she said of the mid-valley. Bishop knew she wanted to join the military, she just didn’t know which branch. When it came time to enlist in 1971, she knew it would be in the Air Force following a chance meeting. “I used to see a lady in full uniform at the post office and decided the military was for me.” She said she always wanted to serve because it was the right thing to do. “I grew up in a small town where patriotism was a good thing.”

Bishop did her basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. Following A school, Bishop worked as a clerical support person. “My favorite job was when I was support for the base fire department.” She was stationed at Frances E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyanne, Wyoming where she was part of the Strategic Air Command. The base is the oldest active military installation within the Air Force. She also worked clerical support for security police and missile security. “I was also

cross trained in disaster preparedness,” she said. In addition to standard paperwork, she scheduled personnel for training and to man the missile sites that were a part of the base.

that she was named the Airman of the month during her service. “I loved what I was doing and the people I worked with were just great.”

While she loved being in the military, it wasn’t always easy. “I had to grow up,” Peggy said. In addition to moving so far from home, she had to get used to being on her own.

Bishop said she is glad she served. “I was proud to wear the uniform.” In looking back, she said she would have joined the Army instead because she feels she would have gotten more training.

“I still love the military,” she added. In addition to the trade she learned, Bishop learned life skills. “I learned about diversity and learned to get along with a lot of different people.” She said she really enjoyed the camaraderie. Bishop is very proud

Bishop was discharged in 1975. She has no regrets about her service. “It gave me four years to figure out what I wanted to do with my life,” she said, adding that it also gave her structure in her life. “It was a great experience.”

Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Albany Democrat-Herald/Corvallis Gazette-Times/Lebanon Express/Philomath Express

Movie Inspired Service es m o o C Dawn

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

awn Coomes said it was a movie that made her want to serve her country. “I was watching Private Benjamin on television and wanted to join the Army,” the Lebanon resident said. “They said they were going to want me to cut my hair,” she added, so she opted to join the US Navy. “They cut my hair anyway,” she said with a smile. Coomes served in the US Navy from 1988 to 1992 during the Gulf War. Coomes journey to her station was a bit longer than most enlistees. Due to a medical issue, she received a medical discharge during her first stint in basic training. The Navy allowed her to seek treatment and then, when she was ready, reenlist. She went to basic training in Orlando, Florida both times. After her second round in boot camp, Coomes attended A school in San Diego. That was where she honed her baking skills and learned hotel management. “I helped check people in,” she explained. She had additional training at Bangor Naval Base in Silverdale, Washington. The Compton, California native became a mess specialist, working in the galley of the barracks. She was stationed in Bremerton, Washington to start her service in 1988. “I liked Bremerton.” She said that was where she

met her husband, who was active Navy. She also had her children while stationed in Bremerton. When she was pregnant, the Navy put her on light duty. “I was put on a desk job, typing reports.” While she said she didn’t mind it, she really wanted to get back to her job. Otherwise, Coomes worked as a baker and helped work out logistics for naval personnel and dependents. “I worked getting people settled where they needed to be.” Coomes was never assigned to a Navy ship during her tenure. She was always on shore duty, which she said she didn’t mind at all. While she never deployed overseas, she did do some training with Marines in preparation for Desert Storm.

One of the highlights of her service for Coomes was getting to utilize her baking skills for a high ranking Navy officer. “I got to bake a cake for the Secretary of the Navy,” she said proudly. She called her time in the Navy a “real adventure.” While she said she learned a lot and met some wonderful people, she said she would not suggest joining during a war. Overall, she said her experience in the Navy was a good one. She has remained in touch with a couple of her friends from her days in the Navy. “And, my Master Chief is my son’s godfather.” Coomes said that she was able to stay home with her children once she was discharged. “I baked a lot of cakes!”

Veterans Day 2018

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The centennial commemoration of Armistice Day -

Saturday, November 10, 2018

‘The Poppy Lady’: the woman behind the Veterans Day symbol This year, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs official Veterans Day poster commemorates the centennial of the armistice that ended World War I and prominently features one of the war’s most famous symbols: the bloodred poppy. The association of the poppy with World War I comes from Canadian John McCrae’s famous poem, “In Flanders Fields,” which describes poppies growing over makeshift graves on the battlefields of war-torn Belgium. However, many people don’t realize that without the efforts of American professor, Moina Michael, the poppy wouldn’t have become the well-known symbol honoring war veterans that it is today. -

This Veterans Day marks the 100th anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I. On November 11, 1918, the European Allies signed an agreement with Germany that ended all hostilities on the Western Front.

stice Day on November 11 each year, often marking the occasion with a moment of silence at 11 a.m. In the U.S., we recognize the date as Veterans Day, a time to honor all Americans who once served in the military.

The agreement was signed by German and Allied military leaders in the private train carriage of the Supreme Allied Commander Ferdinand Foch in Compiegne, France and went into effect at 11 o’clock in the morning — “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.” Although the war didn’t officially end until the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919, the armistice on November 11 effectively brought “the Great War” to its longawaited close.

While the U.S. didn’t enter the First World War until April 1917, approximately two million Americans served in the war and over 116,000 Americans died in combat. Since then, our country has been involved in many major military conflicts around the world and today, there are over 20.4 million American veterans.

Many countries commemorate Armi-

This Veterans Day, we honor the men and women who served our country while remembering the armistice that marked the end of one of the deadliest conflicts that the world has ever seen. -

Michael first read McCrae’s poem only days before the armistice on November 11, 1918. She was especially moved by the poem’s final lines: “If ye break faith with us who die / We shall not sleep, though poppies grow / In Flanders fields.” Determined not to “break faith” with the soldiers who lost their lives, Michael made a vow to wear a red poppy year-round to commemorate the war and honor those who served. After the war, Michael started teaching classes for disabled veterans and soon realized that many former servicemen were in need of financial support and employment opportunities. She began a letter-writing campaign advocating that artificial poppies be sold and distributed to raise funds for veterans. Making poppies also provided work to veterans with disabilities hindering them from finding jobs. Because of her work on behalf of veterans, Michael became a national hero affectionately known as “The Poppy Lady.” Her efforts led the American Legion to adopt the poppy as its memorial symbol. Today, the poppy is internationally recognized as a symbol of World War I remembrance and serves as a tribute to war veterans.

Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Albany Democrat-Herald/Corvallis Gazette-Times/Lebanon Express/Philomath Express

Interconnected reasons lead to service ur

ufo Peter D

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

“I

would have been drafted into the Army,” Corvallis resident Peter Dufour explained. “I decided to go into the Navy.” His goal, he added, was to become a medic. Dufour served in the US Navy in that capacity from 1946-48. While serving on the USS Columbus, his duties included being assigned to the US Medical Office in Shanghai during the escalating civil war that rocked the area and working with Japanese doctors who were treating atomic bomb survivors from World War II. While on the USS Columbus, Dufour served as a medic operating room specialist and lab technician, gaining experience that would serve him well once he stepped on dry land. One of his strongest memories of that time in his life occurred as he and a friend were walking down Nanking Road in Shanghai to a nearby park. “It was the first sign of discrimination I ever ran into.” The park had signs stating that only Europeans were allowed to use it. “‘No Chinese’ signs were everywhere.” While in Shanghai, he was assigned to the US Medical Center on Nanking Road where he worked for emergency services and disease control. One night, in addition to stepping over people in the street, Dufour was chased by a rabid dog as he made his way back to his ship. “I ran my fastest and made it back to the ship before someone shot at the dog.”

Before leaving the service, Dufour was stationed in Yokahama, Japan. Dufour worked in a Japanese military building that was converted to a medical facility. For their own safety, every night, the Navy personnel had to return to their ship. While in Japan, Dufour, along with the Navy doctors and other staff, received lectures from Japanese medical teams who were dealing with radiation survivors from Hiroshima. Dufour believes that everything happens for a reason and that everything is interconnected and “part of something much bigger.” Dufour’s life took several twists and turns before his arrival in Corvallis. He was known as the “Slender Sprinter” at Olympic College. He was inducted into the college’s Hall of Fame in 2017. He taught political science at Grays’ Harbor College

before he and his wife headed for Europe. After he lost his wife, Dufour decided to move back to the United States. “I had never been to Oregon,” he said. He moved, sight unseen and with no job to Corvallis, where he established a private counseling practice. “Life is good,” he said. Healing, he explained starts with the mind. “If people ask for help and I have the skill, I will help them.” Dufour looks back at his military service without regrets. “If you want adventure and want to make a difference, you can gain skills for a lifetime.” Originally from California, Dufour now lives and works in Corvallis.

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Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Marching Draws Praise n

a n g a F n An

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

orvallis resident, Ann Fagnan, who turns 100 years old in January 2019, is a very humble celebrity. A Marine from September 1942 to October 1945, Fagnan was part of what she called a “crack marching platoon,” that marched for President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Life magazine learned President Roosevelt was stopping in North Carolina to watch the women Marines so the magazine showed up too. Fagnan and several of her fellow Marines appeared on the cover and in a spread on the inside of the magazine. “I was sitting at home knitting for the Red Cross,” she said. Fagnan lived in Idaho Falls, Idaho. She had always admired Marines so decided that she was going to become one. Her three brothers were already serving when Fagnan decided she was done knitting. In order to be accepted, Fagnan had to submit affidavits on her character and she had to have the required one year of college under her belt. Basic training took her across the country to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. It was shortly before she was discharged when Life came calling. She recalled a special platform for FDR was built for his wheelchair to be easily moved on and off of it. Fagnan’s job as a Marine was working in the PX. She handled the cigarettes, magazines,

newspapers and candy. “It was a good job.” It was also at Camp Lejeune where Ann met her future husband, Lyle Fagnan, also a resident of Idaho. “Everyone tried to get us together,” she said with a smile. “And, it worked.” The couple were married on base before heading back to Idaho. She enrolled in the University of Idaho in Moscow, majoring in Elementary Art. “But, I got pregnant.” The couple eventually ended up in Corvallis, where Lyle coached track and both Corvallis and Crescent Valley High Schools. “Mike Riley was one of his athletes,” Fagnan said regarding the former OSU football coach. “He was a nice young man.” All four of their children graduated from Oregon State. When asked why she decided become a Ma-

rine, Fagnan said her decision was an easy one. “I didn’t have any discipline.” She smiled. “Did I ever get the discipline in the Corps.” She added that she also felt like she was helping to win the war. On the other hand, she said women were treated like queens. “It was fate,” she said of her being in the Marines in the same location as her future husband. “I probably wouldn’t have joined the Marines if it wasn’t for World War II.” She said the women replaced the men so they could fight. She appreciated being a Marine and being able to utilize the GI Bill. While she didn’t finish her college education, her husband did. “We were poor and could afford college otherwise.” “I’ve had a blessed life,” she said.

Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Albany Democrat-Herald/Corvallis Gazette-Times/Lebanon Express/Philomath Express

Air Force Gives WA Grad Good Start f

Don Fie

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

on Fief was raised in Albany before he grew up in the Air Force. His parents are both graduates of Albany Union High School, while Fief is a Class of 1980 graduate of West Albany High School. Fief served in the Air Force from October 1982 until December 1986, then spent two years in the inactive reserves until October 1988. Feif decided to enlist in the Air Force after money for college ran out after his first year at Portland State University. “Plus, jobs were scarce.” The only other person he knew who had joined the Air Force was an uncle. Unlike his fellow recruits, Fief was not a teenager when he enlisted. “I was already 20 years old when I started basic training.” He said he thinks it was easier for him that the younger airmen. “I had already been out on my own so I knew how to take care of myself.” Following basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, Fief then headed to Biloxi, Mississippi, where he received training in ground radio repair. He also lived through a hurricane and was able to enjoy little baskets of boiled shrimp seasoned and spicy. “I bought them right on the beach.” Fief said he learned to repair many different types of radios. This training prepared him for his

first assignment. “Imagine my surprise when they sent me to an Army base!” Fief said he was assigned to work on hand held portable secure radios and those in Jeeps. Fief ’s entire tenure in the active military was spent at Ft. Lewis in Washington. “I didn’t even think about going overseas,” he said. He did think about cross training. In addition to being able to repair radios, Fief trained as a radio operator, which included learning map and compassing and qualifying on the shooting range. “We went with the Army,” Fief said about his assignments. The Army didn’t have trained radio repairmen but the Air Force did so it was a perfect fit for both branches. Serving in the Air Force made a lifelong im-

pact on Fief. “It changed me.” He said he met a lot of very interesting people. Following Fief ’s discharge, he remained in the inactive reserves for two years. Job wise, he kind of drifted around. “I went into banking, which evolved into robotics work.” He also wrote software for about five years. Then, his mother called him for help. She had an office cleaning business that had just accepted a couple of contracts for large companies. Fief was living in Washington with his wife and young child. He traveled back and forth to the Albany area by train. “It was supposed to last six weeks.” Fief is still here and the company has grown to almost 50 employees. “The military was a very important time in my life,” Fief said of his service.

Veterans Day 2018

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Rex BuRnett

DaviD alDinger Jr.

1965-68 RD2

Navy

1969-1971

Marlin l. Cox May 1951 april 1954

Us Army First CAlvAry

US Marine Corps

Mel leff

WESLEY R. STRAWN

speCiAlist 4th ClAss

pFC

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Thank You Veterans

Gerald e. Hemple, Jr. (Jerry)

1969-1971

8th Army – 76th EnginEEr BAttAlion, KorEA Pvt.

Jerry Killian 1943-1945

1951-1955

Army

pArAtroopers privAte 1st ClAss

US Air Force

AirmAn FirSt clASS

Eric G. czErnowski 1967-1982

Army – medic e6 SSG SilverStAr

ROY EDWARD ULMER

2009 - Present

TyLer eLias

2002-2006

US Army Sergeant HHC, 364th Civil Affairs Brigade

US Marine Corps

Navy Baker 2C Tv-6

LCPL

Jerry Lee Goodwin Sr. Nov. 1964 to Jan 1970

Mr2 (Vietnam Veteran) US navy

1942-1945

BoBBy Whitehead

1956-1960 US Navy

EM2

Paul Y. Wong 1976-1988

uS air Force Colonel

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Veterans Day 2018

Albany Democrat-Herald/Corvallis Gazette-Times/Lebanon Express/Philomath Express

Five Things You Can Do To Support Veterans If you’re looking for a meaningful way to mark Veterans Day this year, consider these five ways to support veterans in your community and around the country. 1. Give a veteran a ride to a doctor’s appointment. Many veterans who are disabled or infirm struggle with mobility issues and may not be able to drive themselves around. Consider volunteering for the Department of Veteran Affairs Transportation Network to drive veterans to their medical appointments. 2. R aise a service dog. Volunteer to help train a service dog to become a companion for a veteran. Organizations like Patriot Paws raise service dogs to help veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and physical disabilities . 3. Send a thank-you letter or care package. Write letters expressing your thanks to the vets in your life. If you don’t have any veterans in your family, the organization Operation Gratitude can help you send letters and care packages to veterans.

4. Participate in a Stand Down event. Stand Downs are events in which services are offered to homeless veterans, including food, clothing, shelter, health screenings, substance abuse treatment and veteran benefits counseling. These events typically last for one to three days. Volunteer to help facilitate a Stand Down event in your community. 5. Donate to charities that help veterans. Your donations don’t have to be financial contributions. Organizations like AMVETS and Vietnam Veterans of America will pick up your used clothes and household items to donate or sell at discounted prices to veterans and their families. You can even donate frequent flyer miles to the families of injured veterans so that their loved ones can travel to be with them in military hospitals across the country.

Vets Helping Vets HQ VHVHQ advocates assist veterans with the benefit claims process, emergency needs, comfort to families, and overall guidance in putting together a fully developed claim at no cost to the veteran.

“We appreciate our vets, a lot of us were there. Thank you for your- service.” Myrle Sloccum Thank You to ALL that Serve! 1750 SW Allen St • CorvAlliS, oregon 97333

541.754.9390

WWW.SouthSiderv.Com

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Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

A Good Fit For Navy Vet orn

erk b a H k c Chu

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

efore becoming full time military, Chuck Haberkorn spent a year at Adams City High School in Commerce City, Colorado as a member of the reserves. Shifting to the US Navy after high school was a simple move and began a long career in the military in the US Navy — from 1957 to 1976. “I’ve been all over the United States and loved every minute of it,” he said of his travels in the US Navy. Chuck grew up in rural Colorado where his parents were farmers. He said he didn’t mind farming but didn’t really want to do it for his entire life.

After going through his basic training in Denver, the current Lebanon resident was stationed in many locations, including Denver, Seattle, Dallas, Texas, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Washington and California. “They broke them, I fixed them,” Haberkorn said of his job as an aviation aircraft mechanic. “I had a lot of fun,” he said of his time in the military. Haberkorn had received an appointment to the Naval Academy in Annapolis but he was injured in a car wreck so did not go. He was told by his doctors that he would never walk again. “I was too young to be crippled,” he said, adding that he worked hard to get back into shape to continue to serve.

Having no desire to serve on a ship, he ended up serving at Naval Stations on both coasts. “I enjoyed every minute of it.”

Coast best. “People are so nice.” He said it just seemed right to live in Oregon.

Haberkorn considers the Navy as the best branch in the military. The training he received while serving helped him in civilian life. “I can fix anything.”

In September, Haberkorn was one of five residents of the Edward C. Allworth Veterans Home in Lebanon to participate in a Dream Flight over the Mid-Valley. The Ageless Aviation Dreams Foundation takes senior veterans from throughout the country on rides near where they live. Haberkorn said he really enjoyed the experience.

Haberkorn was a plank owner on a VR-55 Minuteman aircraft, meaning he was part of the very first crew once the aircraft was put into service on April 1, 1976.

The US Navy proved to be a good fit for him and for his family, who traveled with him from base to base. “We got to see a lot of the country,” Haberkorn said. “And, we met a lot of people.”

Having served across the United States on both coasts, Haberkorn said he likes the West

Now nearing his 80th birthday, Haberkorn said he has no regrets. “It’s been a good life.”

He retired out of Alameda and went to work at Champion Plywood before retiring a second time.

Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Albany Democrat-Herald/Corvallis Gazette-Times/Lebanon Express/Philomath Express

It Was a Good Career ton

mp Bob Ha

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

ob Hampton was raised on a dairy farm in Wisconsin, not giving much thought to joining the military. “It ended up being a good choice for me,” he said. The farm boy began his career in the US Navy when he enlisted in 1942. He retired in 1970 as a commander. “I enjoyed my Navy career,” he said recently. After attending basic training in Great Lakes, Illinois, he began his career on the USS Walker, a destroyer, before moving on to become a navigator on a hurricane hunter. Hampton loved learning and wanted to keep moving on to bigger ships so he continued to gain knowledge and extend his chances of promotions. By moving up in rank, Hampton explained, he was able to transfer to other types of ships. So learning, which he already enjoyed, became a lifelong means to an end. As a young enlisted man, he was part of the support of Operation Torch on November 8, 1942. The operation was the first joint British/American invasion of French North Africa and the United States first venture into the European-North African Theater. “We picked up U boat survivors,” he explained. After World War II ended, Hampton went to electronics school and was on and off carriers for much of the remainder of his long

career. The carriers he served on included the USS Midway and the USS Coral Sea, two of the US Navy’s aircraft carriers that were used as part of the evacuation after the fall of Saigon. After the 1950s, Hampton’s duties were then limited to dry land. “That was good with me,” Hampton said. “I liked being on solid ground.” During his long tenure in the Navy, he was stationed in several locations, including the Philippines and Pensacola, Florida. One of his favorite places to be stationed however, was in Hawaii. “It was very nice there.” Hampton served as a maintenance officer in many locations. Following his long military career, Hampton started an aviation company in San Diego

called Mustang Aviation. He decided on that name because of his military service. A mustang is a slang term for a commissioned officer who started his career as an enlisted man who is usually older than those who receive commissions through one of the military academies. Hampton was quick to say that he never regretted his service. “It was a good choice for me.” Hampton said he would encourage anyone to enlist, especially in the Navy. “It’s a good branch to go in.” Hampton enjoyed his tenure in the Navy. He especially liked being able to see so much of the United States and the world. “It was a good career for me. I’d tell anyone to go for it.”

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Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

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Coming Full Circle en

yd Fred Ha

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

red Hayden has come full circle. Born in Stayton, Hayden lived in the MidValley, moved away to Leadville, Colorado, moved back to Corvallis, fought in a war and now is again living in the area, this time in Lebanon. It was by chance that Hayden became a Marine. It was 1967 and his senior class skip day. The police were following him so he ducked into an office that ended up being a Marine Corps recruiting station. Times being what they were, Hayden decided that he would decide what branch he entered instead of waiting for the draft.

treatment and fully healing, Hayden went back, this time to the demilitarized zone (DMZ). Not long after returning to the front, Hayden was part of an operation that surrounded the Viet Cong, firing M60 rounds into the enemy. Again, Hayden was injured. He is a Purple Heart recipient.

would fit in.”

As a member of the 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Weapons Platoon, Hayden said he was on patrol the first night he was in Viet Nam. Hayden’s platoon went out most nights on ambushes or patrols. “It was frightening seeing the air raids,” he said of when jets flew over them.

This time, he was sent to work in the PX. “I thought that was great!” In June 1969, President Richard Nixon announced the second round of troop withdrawals, including Hayden’s regiment. “I was not prepared.” When the troops returned to San Diego, Hayden said they were met with protesters. “They called us baby killers.” He also faced protesters in Corvallis.

One morning on his way to school on a motorcycle, Hayden was t-boned by a car and seriously injured. Hayden did not let that stop him from reaching his goal of attending college. To date, Hayden has had more than 20 surgeries.

Eventually, Hayden ended up on a hospital ship when he was wounded. After receiving

He got around the protesters by wearing Levis, a plain shirt and boots. “I wore that so I

Hayden spent his first year in the Marines stateside before shipping out to Southeast Asia. He explained that he had to spend a year in the states before becoming eligible to go to Viet Nam. Before landing in Da Nang, Hayden spent time in Okinawa adjusting to the time change and the temperature change.

At Camp Pendleton, Hayden and his fellow Marines were greeted by California state police representatives. “They were there to recruit us to become state police.” Instead, for Hayden, he returned to Oregon where he attended Oregon State, studying agriculture engineering.

Hayden said joining the military isn’t for everyone but that he learned a lot from his time as a Marine. He said he would advise young people to join either the Navy or the Air Force. “I think those branches are a little easier.”

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Veterans Day 2018

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Service Prepared Long For Life g n o L e u S

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

ue Long grew up in Los Angeles. While in college, she was offered a summer internship by the US Army, shadowing a dietitian, the field she wanted to pursue. “It was for six weeks,” she said, “In San Francisco.” When the Army offered to pay her final year of college, she jumped at the chance. “I wanted to be on my own,” she explained. She was one of only eight dietitian students chosen from across the country. “I didn’t have basic training exactly,” she said. Instead, her internship counted as her preparation for active duty. Long service from 1975 through 1980.

She said the opportunities are endless and that, “it pushes and stretches you beyond where you would feel comfortable.” She said she also learned a lot about leadership, something that continues to help her in her real estate group. “We grew up pretty fast,” she said of her and her husband.

tary today. “It doesn’t matter your rank- you always need to look at the big picture.”

During that time, Long was an Army triathlete, competing in running, swimming and shooting. She was also a very accomplished tennis player. Her husband was a marathon runner. Long’s chosen field as a dietician served them both extremely well.

Military service is actually a family affair. In addition to both Long and her husband, Pat, two of the couple’s children have served. Ryan served in the Army National Guard while daughter Dawn served in the Navy. In fact, Dawn is now a doctor because the Navy sent her to medical school. “We all benefited greatly,” Long said.

Long worked as a dietitian at the hospital when they first moved to the Corvallis area before she decided to change professions. “Real Estate was better for raising kids,” she said of the reason for her move.

Long said joining the Army was a great move for her and her husband. “We love the military.”

“Always work to make a big impact,” Long said by way of advice to someone entering the mili-

She was stationed at Ft. Hood in Texas. Her future husband, whose draft number was six, had deferred his service until he completed veterinary school. The two met when they were both stationed at Ft. Hood and would reenlist once they received a promise of being stationed in Europe. “We spent three years in Germany.”

When it came time to locate back in the states following her military tenure, Long said she and Pat wanted to live somewhere similar to Germany in climate and Oregon, being on the same parallel, fit the bill.

Long has no regrets about her time in the service. “It was all worth it because it’s a great country.” She also said the military helped shape her future being. “It makes us who we are.”

Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

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Service Is Family Affair ins k y L t n e Tr

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

hen he was about seven years old, Trent Lykins’ teacher asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up. The young boy didn’t hesitate in his answer. “I told her that I wanted to be a Marine or a Navy Seal,” he said matter-of-factly. Lykins said, even at that young age, he knew what he wanted to be and why. His grandfather’s service during World War II served as his inspiration. Growing up in Silver City, New Mexico, Lykins opted for the US Marine Corps. Boot camp was in San Diego, a big change for the landlocked young man. The New Mexico native took to his new environment and enjoyed the sand and the sea of Southern California. Lykins served from 1995 to 2006, including a stint during the Persian Gulf War. In 1997, Lykins was deployed on the USS New Orleans when it experienced some wild and unpredictable weather. “We almost capsized in a typhoon,” he explained, adding that the carrier was caught along the outside edge of the massive storm. He explained that had it not been for the plane elevators on both sides of the carrier, the ship would have capsized. “Those elevators stopped that carrier from flipping.” He has a photo of the USS New Orleans on the wall of his room at the Veterans’ Home in Lebanon.

Lykins spent two tours overseas, both in the Middle East, in 1998 and then again in 2006. The first time, his job included guarding an old Desert Storm security post. “It was a hole in the wall,” Lykins said. He said he was able to adjust to the area quicker than a lot of his fellow Marines because the landscape was similar to the New Mexico he grew up in. What made it so different was the terrorists in the area. Lykins said that he had a premonition then that he would be returning someday. In 2006, that is exactly what happened. Lykins said that his second tour was much different. “It was a lot more dangerous.” Lykins was a radio

operator, team leader and infantry squad leader while on active duty. Before moving to Lebanon about two years ago, Lykins lived for a time in Seattle. Since returning home, Lykins said he has struggled with PTSD but realizes that joining the military was something he just had to do. “I joined the military for myself and nobody else.” He explained that he didn’t join for the benefits like some of his friends did. “Do it for your country.” Lykins is very patriotic and continues to love his country. “Fly a flag year around because you love your country and not because everyone else is doing it.”

Veterans Day 2018

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Navy Suited Veteran Well ter

s Floyd O

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

loyd Oster moves a lot slower than he did when he was a young man deciding on what path he wanted his future to take. He was born in Kansas but moved to Millersburg in 1937, eight years before enlisting in the US Navy Air Corps in 1945. Following basic training in Tennessee, Oster was stationed on the USS Turner, a destroyer just as World War II was nearing its end. Not long after, he had the opportunity to attend aviation radio school, becoming an Aviation Radioman. He served as a machine gunner on an airplane, preparing for the war that ended before he ever went up in a plane. As to why he chose the US Navy, Oster said that was easy. “Three squares when they weren’t fighting and you got to sleep in the same bed.” “I never went into the air,” Oster said, explaining that the war ended. He then transferred to the US Navy, spending six months in Chicago before heading back to the West Coast, first to Bainbridge Island, then Whidbey Island. “Those were good times,” he said of his time in Washington state. Oster then spent 2 years in China. “Join the Navy and travel,” he said with a smile. “And, I did.” With the end of World War II, Oster’s move to the regular US Navy allowed him a change

in his specialty. Oster became a storekeeper, which he said suited him very well. While serving in China, Oster said there was never a dull moment. “We never knew what was going to happen,” he said. One of the things he especially remembers was when their target practice meant sinking two contaminated Navy ships. Because of the need for Oster to keep the galley continually stocked, he said he never stood watch. Instead, he was constantly going onshore to purchase or secure items for the ship. Oster was discharged in 1948 in San Diego.

After his time in the service, he worked a variety of jobs, including working in the woods and being an engineer on a steam locomotive. “I’ve never been bored in my life,” he said. The 92 year old Veteran said he has no regrets about joining the Navy as a young man. He felt it was a good path for him and one he really enjoyed. “Go for it,” he said when asked what he would tell a young person today who was considering the military. He noted the great discipline he learned, the friends he made and the skills he learned. “It was the best,” he said of his time in the Navy.

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Mid-valley Perfect Fit For Navy Vet on

ters t a P y d Ran

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

andy Patterson’s military career started the same year that his father retired from the US Navy. Following in his father’s footsteps, Patterson also served in the Navy, although his tenure was much shorter, from 1989 to 1996. Patterson left for basic training in Great Lakes, Illinois right after graduating from high school. “So I missed the bad weather,” he said. Following basic, Patterson traveled to Memphis, Tennessee for A School, where he learned to be an Aviation Machinist Mate. “I learned the basics of working on airplane engines and components.”

His first assignment was at Camp Lemoore in California, where he was a plane captain for an A 7 Corsair Plane. “Two weeks later,” he said with a smile, “I was deployed.” He ended up shipping out of San Diego on the USS Carl Vinson for his first Westpac cruise. “I’ll never forget leaving San Diego. I felt like I was walking sideways until I got my boat legs.” Overall, the deployment suited Patterson. “I loved it.” Because he had a lot of training, he became a very invaluable member of his unit. In addition to working on the planes on the ship, he was often sent on special assignments. One of the most exciting special assignment was when he was part of a group that flew off and back onto an aircraft carrier in a cargo plane. “It was a great adventure.” He did a lot of troubleshooting and, as he explained, “I did everything except fly them.”

Following the Westpac cruise, Patterson was sent to Norfolk, Virginia, where he and his fellow sailors sailed the USS Kitty Hawk to the west coast. “We went around Cape Horn.” They saw icebergs and experienced very cold weather. His second deployment was also a Westpac cruise. He did inspection on the aircraft and helped get the pilot on board. He had a lot of responsibility for both the plane and the pilot. “I made sure the plane flies and that it’s safe to get in the air.” This cruise took Patterson to the Philippines, Japan, Singapore, and Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. “If there was a qualification needed, I got it,” he said, explaining those qualifications really helped his career. “I loved testing the engines.” By this time, Patterson was married so he opted not to reenlist. Discharged in Lemoore, Patterson

went to work doing construction, followed by a stint with Chevron. He was hooked on the mid-valley the first time he laid eyes on it. He explained that he and his wife were traveling south from Portland to visit some of her family. Passing through the area, he said he knew instantly that someday he wanted to live here. His construction background made him a good fit for T. Gerding Construction. His first job in the mid-valley was as project manager of the carousel building in downtown Albany. “It was a blast!” The company received a Daily Journal of Commerce Award for hospitality because of the project. Patterson loved his time in the Navy. “Everyone should go in right out of high school. You get a chance to learn some great life skills.”

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Spandri Flies Around the World, Lands in Albany i

ndr a p S t l Wa

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

rom 1954 through 1959, Walt Spandri served our country as a member of the US Air Force. A native of Inglewood, California, Spandri soon found himself very far from home for his basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio,Texas. His specialty training took him back to the West Coast and Parks (California) Air Force Base. Spandri was a tail gunner in a Strategic Air Command (SAC) bomber. “I looked at a radar screen for my targets,” he said. He was part of one of two squadrons stationed in Ft. Worth, Texas as a Russian deterrent. There were 11 aircrafts in each of the squadrons. While he was always stationed state side, he ended up flying around the world, stopping at many bases along the way. “We went where we were needed.”

Because Spandri joined the Army Air Corps as a 17 year old, he actually needed special permission from Congress to join the Air Force. Part of his duties was to work in the tech room, where there was a manual for everything in the aircraft he eventually flew in. Spandri said he would have remained in the service but an injury cut his career short. He was transferred to Altus, Oklahoma to become a crew member on a B-52 bomber. Along with two others, Spandri was given a 30 day leave before reporting to their new base. The three headed home to California when a 3000 pound wrecking ball slammed into their car.

Spandri was the in the front passenger seat and severely injured his left shoulder and arm. The driver’s right shoulder and arm were injured, while the passenger in the back seat was killed. After recovering, Spandri spent six years working through the Veterans’ Administration trying to get benefits after his records were lost in a fire. Thankfully, he had family to support him during those years while he was trying to prove he was indeed a veteran. Spandri moved to Oregon when a riot broke out near his Inglewood home. “We decided it was time to move.” They had originally intended to move to

Northern California but his wife marked the tiny town of Shady Cove, Oregon instead so that was where they headed before moving to Grants Pass. Spandri eventually settled in the Albany area and said he quickly fell in love with Oregon and can’t imagine living anywhere else now. As for serving in the military, Spandri said it was a good move for him. “I loved the service,” he said. Following instructions by superiors was something that he said he learned and was something that followed him into civilian life. His advice was geared toward those wanting to get into leadership roles. “Listen to the people who are assigned to you.”

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Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Dream of a College Education ns e v e t S Denny

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

eople enlist in the military for a wide variety of reasons. A desire to go to college, combined with the looming draft, is what prompted current Albany resident, Denny Stevens to enlist in the US Army when he did. Originally from Bozeman, Montana, Stevens knew his time was coming. “I knew I was about to get drafted.” He also knew he really wanted to attend college. “I dreamed of getting a college degree.” To be eligible for the GI Bill, Stevens was told there was a time frame during which he would need to enlist. “I had to get into the service during a specific time,” he said. Knowing it would allow him to choose which branch he went into and to pursue his dream of a college education, he didn’t hesitate. Stevens spent three years in the Army, raising to corporal. Two of those years were spent at the Hanford Atomic Works in Washington State as a security guard. He said he also worked a number of other military jobs, much preferring jobs with daytime hours. “I didn’t especially like night jobs,” Stevens said with a chuckle. “I didn’t like the lack of sleep.” Stevens left the military with the idea of heading to college. He returned to Bozeman, where, thanks to the GI Bill, he was able to attend Montana State University. “I studied art in college,”

he said, adding that he concentrated mostly on pottery. He was very grateful that he was able to utilize the GI Bill that allowed him to reach his goal of getting a degree. “Otherwise, I probably wouldn’t have been able to go to college.” He eventually went on to teach pottery at the college level. He said he also used the studio on the Montana State campus to create his own works. Overall, Montana State was a great fit for Stevens the student and Stevens the instructor. Stevens said that while he didn’t always like the work he did while in the Army, he appreciated learning discipline and, upon being dis-

charged, the opportunity to utilize the GI Bill to follow his personal dream of becoming an artist. His Albany home holds a lot of the work he has created over the years. One thing he said he would have done differently was getting out when he did. “I thought about staying in.” Instead, he decided not to reenlist because he wanted to go to college. “I kind of wish I would have reenlisted.” A piece of advice he said he would give young people today who were considering enlisting in the military was to make a career of it. “Stay in the military and get your retirement.”

Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

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A Marine’s Life For Thomsen sen

m Neil Tho

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

eil Thomsen originally wanted to join the US Navy. Instead, the New York City native ended up in the Marine Corps. “It came about by accident.” He had gone to Lower Manhattan with a buddy to join the Navy. When they wouldn’t take his friend, the Navy recruiter sent them to the Marine Corps recruiter. The rest of it for Thomsen and his friend, was history when the two became Marines. Following boot camp at Paris Island, Thomsen went on to become part of the artillery, where he commanded howitzer mortars. “We practiced with white phosphorus.” The chemical was used a lot during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Thomsen spent time at Camp Lejeune, Hawaii, Okinawa and Guantanamo Bay during the Cuban Missile Crisis. While at Gitmo, Thomsen said they were kept in the dark about what was happening. All dependents were sent back to the United States and Thomsen said they started seeing Cuban Militia in places they had never been before. “Then, we sited Russian ships,” he said. They could see the missiles on the ships as they passed near to where Thomsen and his fellow Marines were stationed. Thomsen said they could see the Russian sailors waving at them. It was not until they returned to Camp Lejeune six months later and were allowed access to current events that they realized the danger they were actually in.

After being discharged, Thomsen didn’t have a set plan on what he wanted to do with the rest of his life. He had met a woman in Hawaii who had moved to California. He didn’t really have any plans so decided to look her up. When that didn’t work out, he drifted around for several months. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do.” He ended up in the Tenderloin district of San Francisco where he worked cleaning rooms and began sinking into depression. “Someone intervened and took me to a VA Hospital.” It changed Thomsen’s life. He worked for a time at an aircraft parts factory, eventually going to work for the National Archives

in San Francisco. There, he worked a lot with Chinese immigrant papers. It was a job he greatly enjoyed, especially when it allowed him to help people. Thomsen also returned to school along the way. He has an associate’s degree in business and a Bachelor of Arts in Modern European History. He is also a selftaught artist. “I enjoy acrylics the most.” He said he was glad to have been in the military. “It was a great experience for me.” He said he would encourage anyone to join. “It would be a good choice.” Thomsen said he takes enormous pride in being a veteran and serving his country.

Veterans Day 2018

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We Supported the Troops er

Don Wim

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

Albany resident, Don Wimer enters the twilight of his life, at almost 88, he looks back on his time in the military with fondness. It was a good choice for him and a move he suggests other young people take. “I’m glad I did it.” Before joining the active US Army, Wimer spent four years in the ROTC program at Oregon State University, graduating in 1949. During that time span, he spent his summers doing a military internship at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, learning all about artillery, which he found very interesting. Upon graduation, he was activated and said he expected to head to an artillery unit. He chuckled. “They found out I couldn’t see so that put an end to that. They put me in the quartermaster corps.” While he had wanted to work with artillery, he found he was a good fit in the quartermaster corps. As part of the quartermaster corps, Wimer helped with the logistics that allowed the Army to function efficiently. He helped arrange for items such as water and general supplies to be delivered where they were needed so the troops training for the front line could concentrate on their duties, knowing they would be taken care of. “We supported the troops.” Other places Wimer was stationed included Fort Lee, Virginia and Ogden, Utah, where he was eventually discharged. “I kept track of machinery

used to move people and supplies.” While many young people during his time extended his or her military service, Wimer decided not to. Two years after graduating from Oregon State, Wimer was discharged. “I had had enough.” Despite being active for only two years, the military, Wimer said, really helped him mature. “The Army helped me grow up.” Being in ROTC also helped him pay for college. Having grown up in Albany, Oregon State was a natural fit. He was in the School of Business, where he was an accounting major. Wimer’s time in the Army was relatively short.

“The war was over and things were back to normal,” Wimer said, adding, “I decided I had spent enough time in the Army.” That said, he was quick to add that he was happy that he was able to serve and that he has no regrets. Having married while still in college, Wimer said that being in the Army allowed the couple to get their feet on the ground. “It also helped us grow up.” His advice to others is to take full advantage of everything offered. After being discharged, he returned to what he knew. “Dad was a logger and I grew up in logging camps, so I went back home to work in the woods.”

Albany Democrat-Herald/Corvallis Gazette-Times/Lebanon Express/Philomath Express

Veterans Day 2018

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Father Influenced Choice den a Y d y o B

By Kay M Roth, MID-VALLEY MEDIA

oyd Yaden was born in Washington, DC and lived several places growing up as a military dependent. His father a full colonel in the Corps of Engineers. After watching his father move up the ranks while serving his country, Yaden decided to pursue a military career of his own. Having moved to Oregon to attend Oregon State, Yaden spent four years in the school’s ROTC program, which allowed him to enter the Air Force as an officer upon graduation. A highlight for the young officer was having his father swear him in. The elder Yaden also pinned his own 1928 officer’s bars on his son. At their graduation in 1967, Yaden and his classmates were excited to learn where they would be stationed.

Yaden shipped to Viet Nam.

With visions of seeing the world, Yaden was in for a surprise when, along with his classmates, he opened the envelop carrying his assignment. “My first assignment was Adair,” he said with a chuckle, regarding the fact that he would just be moving up Highway 99. After a few months, Yaden’

He spent 1968-69 in Viet Nam as a long range radar controller, also known as a tactical controller. Part of his duties were to act as a liaison between the Air Force and Army. While in Viet Nam, Yaden lost all of his toes on both feet and a part of each foot. He has had over 20 surgeries on his feet.

Next, Yaden moved on to Minot, North Dakota, where he was part of the 91st Missile Wing. The missiles were deployed in silos across North Dakota. From the middle of the United States to the middle of a war zone,

While in Southeast Asia, Yaden was part of Operation Arc Light. The operation, which ran from 1965 until the end United States’ operations in 1973, consisted of B-52F bombers flying from Guam to drop bombs over Viet Nam.

Yaden returned to Oregon following his service, entering the banking business. He eventually worked his way up the ranks, ending his time as the assistant vice president and trust officer. “I really enjoyed it a lot,” Yaden said of the banking industry. Yaden said he does not regret his time in the Air Force. He said it was a good move for him. His best advice to a young person considering the military includes planning. “Get a college degree and join ROTC,” Yaden suggested. “Plan for the future.” Yaden said his time in the military were some of the best years of his life.

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Veterans Day 2018

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Albany Democrat-Herald/Corvallis Gazette-Times/Lebanon Express/Philomath Express

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