1970s Air Force Life

Another Atco's Collections video. I was in the Air Force during the 1970s. I found some pictures that I thought I lost years ago. Here's a 2 minute video showing a piece of my 4 year life in the AirForce.

[@bcfmef]

my 4 year stint in the USAF was the best years of my life. I was just too young to realize that back then. 91-95

[@mikeske9777]

I served Air Force active duty from 1975 to 1988 and then in the Reserves from 1988-2000. I am now retired and My first base out of tech school for aircraft structural repair was Okinawa for 2 years then on to Clark AB for 5 years and a year at Kunsan. After that my first state side base was Lackland (yeah MTI duty) for two years then on to Nellis for three years then into the Reserve.

[@OVERHERE-OVERHERE]

Proud and Lucky To have been Called Airman. 1980-84 Shaw AFB,SC Ramstein AB, West Germany Bless Our Troops, And Veterans, Thank You All.

[@sandburgmartin7947]

1969-1973. Thanks for that. When someone says "thank you for your service" I sincerely reply, " It was an HONOR to have had the opportunity".

[@OVERHERE-OVERHERE]

@@sandburgmartin7947 We served for Love of God,Country, family and friends…

[@johnstratton7470]

Thank you for your service and sharing this my Dad was in from 69 to 73

[@atco21117]

Hi John - Very nice comment, thank you! -- Atco

[@sandburgmartin7947]

Same yrs as your dad. Tell that same time AF brother hello whether here or moved on.

[@johnstratton7470]

@@sandburgmartin7947 he passed away back in 98 from cancer I wanted to join myself back in 96 but I couldn't because I have seizures it's sad how our country has turned love my country and it's hard for me to stay quiet once again Thank you for your service 🇺🇲

[@johnstratton7470]

@@atco21117 Thank you

[@GregSr]

Served from '75 to '80. After 8 months of tech school at Chanute, I was assigned to Loring AFB in northern Maine. Did two TDY assignments. One was two months in Chicago the other was two months in Pittsburgh. We had a mobile KC-135 flight simulator and we helped train the national Guard to transition from the KC-97. Great memories. Great experience. Both my sons were born at Loring.

[@oscarcruz9585]

Wow....you had it rough.....lol. I was in the Air Force in the '70's as well....loved it and if I could do it all over again I would. Great Video.

[@ArcadeDude44]

Wow, thanks for serving in the Air Force. This is a wonderful look at your history in the service, thanks for sharing this.

[@atco21117]

ArcadeDude44 Hi Dude44 - My 4 years of the Air Force sure made me grow up from where I was prior. Some great times for sure, some things I could have done differently, but that's true with everyone's life. I appreciate you watching! See ya -- Atco

[@bobshaw4063]

@@atco21117 Made e grow up to ' 71 - ' 75 .

[@sams568]

Kept looking at my arm when I got my first stripe on the old cotton fatigues with blue and white name tapes. Went to permanent press a while later with subdued name tapes. Finally got woodland cammo (YES!). Went in 1979 retired 1999

[@frankfreeman1444]

I did 1965 -72, 304X4. Spent 3 years in Germany then SAC in Minuteman and then Titan at Davis Monthan, interrupted by a year defending the freedom-loving people of Vietnam then back to Minuteman at the garden spot of Grand Forks, North Fucking Dakota. Live in Thailand now.

[@prime_9]

Thanks for posting your 'short' career. Many guys have the memories of the late 60's and 70's but I think your video will rekindle many of them. I thought I saw my last 'baht bus' in 1969!

[@atco21117]

Hi Anthony - I've had some wonderful comments from guys that were also in the service in the 60s and 70s. You don't want to live in the past, but it is fun when some of those memories show up in your mind. See ya -- Atco

[@georgedevine415]

Served proudly in the AF 1965-1969. Would go today if they let me. Have now been on our local VFW Military Rites Team for almost 20 years. We serve at veteran's funerals and do about 200 a year. We all wear uniforms and takes this honor very seriously.

[@atco21117]

That's cool man! I haven't ever done anything with the VFW before. Now just retired, might check it out. See ya! -- Atco

[@61dodgelancer]

George, thanks for serving on your local VFW Military Rites Team. You are performing an important service. I was in the AF at the same time you were. 1965-1969. My wife and I still go back to visit the radar station where I was stationed.

[@steveperry1344]

that's a nice thing you're doing.

[@sandburgmartin7947]

George, thanks for what you do. Guess I took your spot. Was in 1969-1973. Besides my AFSC while active my extra volunteer duty was funeral details. Was 6'2" so was on firing party with old M-1's like my dad carried in US Army. It was an honor to be a part of last respects. Those TAPS buglers always, and still do, run chills up the spine.

[@danvanhoose6783]

Remember when we got our name tags. We thought that was the neatest.couldn't wait for that first stripe.good times.

[@atco21117]

Hi Dan - Yeah, that stripe meant a lot to us. I spent my 3rd year of the service in Asia. When I got back to the US I was a 3 strip sergeant. All of the workers in my shop there where just 1 strippers. Yeah... I felt so much older than them all of a sudden! See ya -- Atco

[@ThatAirsoftGuy_2008]

My papa had 3 stripes

[@MBLUESFAN]

Served from 75-95. These pics bring back many memories, espcially the uniforms back then.

[@ddarkshark]

US Air Force 1966-1970, 1 year at Phu Cat AFB RVN , 4 years of great memories!

[@lenyuhas7446]

Very cool video. I remember those green uniforms nothing like they wear today. It's fun to look back and reminisce. I entered the AF in 1971 Lackland, then SP school also Lackland. Then after leave assigned to maelstrom AFB Great Falls Mt. From there to Goose AB Labrador Canada for 13 months. Never was so cold or saw so much snow. Then back to Malmstrom till I was discharged January '75.

[@atco21117]

Hi Len - We were both in at the same time. Never got much cold in my 4 years. When stationed in the US, I was always in the south. Out the US, I was in Asia. Not much use to have a coat that whole 4 years. See ya -- Atco

[@lenyuhas7446]

@@atco21117 hey Atco, you were lucky to have all those warm southern assignments. I was never so cold in my life. Never had so much cold weather gear in my life. I must say though I met some great people and made some great friends. Guess I can say I wouldn't trade it for nothing. USAF!!

[@i_am_number]

So great that these weren't lost. Thanks for sharing.

[@atco21117]

+I am number... Hi - I always wonder how I lost those pictures. Then there they were in a box inside a trunk that I hadn't opened for 30 years. Thanks for you comment. -- Atco

[@rickeymitchell8620]

I too went in the Air Force in 1970 to 1981. Many memories brought back by your pics. Thanks for sharing.

[@Jake-tt6mk]

Thanks for your service, my dad (Bob Bryant from Blackshear, Georgia) was also stationed in Tampa and did a year at Udorn, Thailand. Lost him to cancer four years ago, and most of me died with him. Home of the Hunters! Love ya dad!!

[@atco21117]

Hi Jake - Sorry to hear that you lost your Dad. Sounds like he went thru some of the same things I want thru during my years at the Air Force. Your Dad may be gone from this realm, but he's there in another realm. You will fill him with you. See ya -- Atco

[@miket3343]

Really cool, I went into the Air Force Oct 5, 1970 as a crew chief on c-130's. I lost my pics over the years. Thanks so much for this video!!!!

[@atco21117]

Hi Mike - Ahh... many days spent in a C-130! Thanks for your comment. See ya -- Atco

[@billestes4335]

Brings back memories. I was a crew chief on C-130B's at Clark AB P.I. 1969-70. I live near Atlanta also...small world. Thanks for sharing.

[@atco21117]

Hi Bill, great to hear from another Clark AB guy again! See ya -- Atco

[@jasoncollins5278]

Did you know a Chief MSGT Killebrew at Clark?

[@ub40b42v]

I joined in 1979.mWent to basic July 26, 79. It was a shock to see Vietnam members in all of our squadron flights. They seemed tiered and their uniforms were not the best looking. If you referred to them as Sir, they would usually say " Don't call me SIR, I work for a living." Many smoked heavily, and alcohol was their chose of friends. I was assigned my first dorm room. I thought wow I have a room. Well it was about 20' x 20' It was small and I am not sure of the measurements. But picture this. NO WINDOWS, a bunkbed against the back wall, the beds went right to left and only had 2 feet

[@atco21117]

Well, it was different between people drafted in the service rather than signed up. Plus, the war in Asia was closing up and nobody was worried too much about having your clothes all nice, even the officers didn't care. But a big surprise when I got back to the USA again! Half the time I was in the Air Force I did have a room by myself. That was nice. See ya -- Atco

[@JerryCarr909]

Great memories. 1974-78 😊

[@dennyholt6166]

That fit my experience perfectly..Same time frame. Same uniforms...Same basic barracks. Although I went to Korea, then Utah, and then discharged.. Just like my pics..

[@atco21117]

Glad you enjoyed the pics! See ya -- Atco

[@jungletension2835]

My dad was a lieutenant colonel stationed at March Air Force Base we lived in Riverside late sixties to the early seventies. My wife and I just went back there last year after 50 years Torrid the museum there and the house we lived in the still there too that's awesome

[@atco21117]

Hi Sam - I bet that was fun to the old place still there! See ya -- Atco

[@craigh3381]

Served 1966-1970 in Security Police..first to Loring AFB in Maine 1966-1969 then onto Don Maung Thailand 1969-1970..I was to young and not smart enough to stay in. I requested to be transferred to a different profession but USAF denied it....other than the cold in Maine it was a great time in my life...espicaily in Thailand..wish I would have returned to live there..but life was charted out differently...pround to have served with brothers of USAF.

[@joekoelker9038]

Altus AFB 1966-70 SAC 66-68 MAC 68-70. Transportation sdr AFSC 60251. Should have stayed in. Sgt J H Koelker.

[@freddiemoretti8456]

I left Clark in February of 72 and got an early out having only 4 months left on my tour. I spent all of my spare time at the stables and made a number of horse related trips to Manila which were pretty hairy drives. Worked as an interior electrician having been stationed at Vandenberg prior to Clark and went to Sheppard for schooling in 1968. I had a great time at Clark. Thanks for sharing this on KZbin!

[@ronshoff373]

Thanks for sharing, these pics brought back some memories. Some good and some not so good. I went in on Aug 28th, 1968 and after basic in Lackland I spent about 8 months in tech school in Chanute. From there I went off to Yokota for the rest of my 4 years. I had a couple tdys, one to Pago Pago and one to McClellan. I still have a lot of pictures from those days and keep in touch with quite a few of the old 56th WRS crew.

[@atco21117]

Hi Ron - I catch a guy on Facebook once in awhile who I worked with when I was stationed in Tampa. And, a friend from tech school in Mississippi, we still swap Christmas cards to each other and send a letter with it to hear of what has happened in their life each year. Yeah, there are some great memories from my years in the service. See ya -- Atco

[@stevenalexander2956]

Thanks for the memories! I was stationed in utapao, Thailand in 74.

[@atco21117]

Thanks buddy! -- Atco

[@60vanbaker]

I was at utapao in 68 then up to Ubon for my last 4 months in country. POL

[@utapao74]

U-Tapao, 635th SPS, 74-75, there when Saigon fell.

[@mikethemagnificent6631]

Utapao 72-73 Linebacker 2

[@meljenkins1016]

Served 20 years and retired from the air force from 1977-1997. Stationed mainly in Europe. Toured a lot all over Europe on my vacation time & off time. Those were the best years of my life I would say. Would do it all over again. I was a communications technician stationed mostly mountain top relay sites far away from air bases. No one mess's with you.

[@atco21117]

Hi Mel - Great, 20 years in, super! It's funny, when I signed up in the early 70s they offered me to learn Chinese and Russian then sit and listen to anything I'd hear in a mountain some where. They also offered to teach me electronics. I took the electronics. Always wondered how things would have changed in my life if I had taken the language job. See ya -- Atco

[@mike89128]

Was in 63-67 at Charleston SC. Three man room had one table, one chair, 3 bunks, no air conditioning and one small screened window within a window that let in fresh air, but was blocked by blinds. Used to sleep with sweat dripping off our bodies during the summer months of 90 temps and 90 humidity. No swimming pool, gym. Had off site facilities but command made it very clear no single airmen allowed, unofficially reserved for families, airmen had to be invited by a family.

[@DanHollowayUnityrev]

That was super!

[@atco21117]

Hi Colin - that was my 1970 Ford Maverick Grabber in the picture. I owned that for about 5 years. Thing was pretty fast with that little 302 V8. In one of my pictures of tech school, my roommate (the guy spitting fire) had one of those Vegas. His was green if I recall. I always thought they were cool little cars, especially the fastback. For those who were lucky enough to buy one of the Cosworth engines, those are very collectible today. See ya -- Atco

[@timothyhonaker7989]

The pic of that dude spitting fire sure brought back a memory. I served my last duty at Nellis ( area two ) babysitting missiles. Discharged in 75.

[@Skippy071421]

Great pics, man. I served proudly in the USAF from 1999 to 2009. Now I want to take a trip down memory lane after seeing your photo reel.

[@atco21117]

That's a great idea Carlos. All of us who went into the service have plenty of memoris whether it was a few years or as a lifer. I think people would like to watch your pictures. -- Atco

[@teddychalgren]

Very cool. Thanks for serving.

[@atco21117]

Thanks Edward! -- Atco

[@cappythumper514]

I was promoted from squad leader to latrine queen the last 2 weeks of basic. A skunk made my airman run while marching them back from kp duty to the squad dorm. 101. ~*~ Funny memories. 1983

[@tonypresti5810]

I was latrine queen, then promoted to "chow runner."

[@historify.54]

I loved this. Thanks. AF vet, 1973 - 1984.

[@dang25272549]

Thanks for sharing the old pictures of the tample and Pattaya beach .

[@atco21117]

Hi Dang Po - I only made it to Pattaya beach, but what a beautiful place. This was in the 70s, and they may not do it now, but one thing I remembered the best was that at the end of the night and the bars were closing soon, the girls would put on traditional costumes and would dance with old Thai music. It was fantastic. Made me think how much old customs and cultures are being lost today all over the countries. See ya -- Atco

[@yqwgjsg]

It was a great time to be alive. I got assigned to the 1839th EIG at Keesler in 1975. What an adventure. We had no job on base, rather our group was TDY constantly. From Alaska to Germany and many in between. Our TDY's usually were 3 months or less so we got to see the world. Back home with the wife and kids for a few weeks, then new orders. When back at Keesler, we would report in the morning for an hour then be released. Times between TDY were like vacations. We met an airman in Germany who worked with us. We told him all the stories about our travels and job. He put in for a transfer and beat us back to the states and was waiting in our office when we walked in. I wouldn't take anything for the time I was in.

[@atco21117]

Hi Hammer - Thanks for sharing your time in the AF. I dealt well with the AF. Could have stayed for more then 4 years, but my sinuses were killing me from working outside on the flight-line in Arizona. I told them I'd re-list if they'd give me a job inside. They said no, they've spent too much into me now, gotta stay with the planes. OK, then .. move be back to the Philippines. I had a good time there. No, again... you've got the newest plane in your base now. You've learned the newest stuff. We need you there for at least 2 years. Well, couldn't stay for another 2 years on the flight-line, so I left. Probably best for me anyways. I was still single and drinking too much. I'd probably turn into one of those older guys sitting all day in the NCO bar. See ya -- Atco

[@yqwgjsg]

atco21117 I loved it and would have stayed but I had 2 issues. I took a 4 year leave of absence from the phone company and the other was that if you ever got assigned to an E&I outfit (electronics installation), you would most likely spend your career in Mobile Communications or E&I, both constant TDY deployments. I was married with 2 kids and I couldn't see that. I hated the day I got out but went back to my job and retired with 42 years with AT&T. I simply loved the Air Force and everything it taught me. I was a telephone switchman and that led to a long 6 figured career. The funny thing is that the electronics training and the like did not make me successful. It was the self discipline and the drive for excellence that carried over to every aspect of my life.

[@lucky4724]

O man what memories, served 18JAN.74 ETS 1NOV.78, Lackland-Keesler-Chanute-Homestead afb, fl.- Ramstein ab, germany 63150 POL (REFUELING) 31ST TACTICAL FIGHTER WING / 86TH TACTICAL FIGHTER WING! !!! F4E'S, F-111'S, A-10'S, C-130'S, C-5'S, C-141'S, RAMP RATS!! Good ol days, Loved that midnight chow after hanging at airman's club. Respect to all my commrads from all branches! !!! And love the music !!#THEBLUES !!! Hope all is well !!!

[@atco21117]

Hi Lucky - Quite often I worked at midnight shifts. When getting done at 7am, yep.. those breakfasts were always so good! Thanks for your comment. See ya -- Atco

[@lucky4724]

@@atco21117 no problem, take care !!!!

[@darrylnelson6264]

I was in the Air Force from 1975 - 2001! I was in an AMS squadron too. I was Comm/Nav. Never went to the PI but I was at DM. Thanks for your service!

[@garyjones2582]

Very cool video.. wish I had taken pictures.. I was in A.F. from 70-74.. thx for the memories...

[@gunner5125]

Thanks for sharing! I was in from 80-92. CATM. 2 years at Upper Heyford, 2 years at Eglin, and my last 8 at Lackland. I must have pissed someone off!! Your dorm room looks just like the ones when I was in.....stereo systems, posters and set up like home!! Sure wish that I'd have made it over to Clark!!

[@atco21117]

See ya Anthony! -- Atco

[@donnavenneman9883]

Enjoyed the pictures, Im gona look for mine. Was in from 72 to 76, 1 year at NKP Thailand, 2 years TJ Spain. TDY several times to Turkey and Italy. Loved Italy. Had a 71 Honda 450 scrambler, best bike I ever owned. The best to you my friend. ...nate USAF

[@atco21117]

Hi Donna - You had quite a lot of trips during your time in the service! When I was in Mississippi in 1972 during school for 8 months, I had a Honda 450 CL motorcycle to get around. Loved it. Then me and 2 buddies would rent 125 Suzuki trail bikes to the woods. Man, we'd beat the heck of them! Some times ourselves too (lol). See ya -- Atco

[@poopytowncat]

Thanks! 1963-1967. Enlisted at age 17. Last year (66-67) was in Takhli Thailand as weather observer. Seems like yesterday.

[@deeholler1]

Great video! Nicely done, great music! My hubby was in the AF for 5 years, 1972-1977. This brought back memories...

[@atco21117]

+dee smily Hi Dee - Your hubby was in the AF the same time I did. We might have had a beer or two somewhere along the road. Thanks for your comment! -- Atco

[@anthonyfoutch3152]

I was in USAF 72-75 Then air guard 75-78.

[@anthonyfoutch3152]

@@atco21117 i was in that time period too.

[@jrridd5747]

How nice..... brings back many good memories....I was Security Policeman at Clark AB 1983- 1986...

[@atco21117]

Hi Jr - Always good to hear from another service guy! See ya -- Atco

[@jnewton2186]

I was a 70's guy myself (73-77). After basic went to San Angelo Tx for tech school, did my overseas tour in San Vito Italy and then finished with a pcs to Ft Meade Md (NSA). Somewhere in there was a tdy back to lackland to go to Bergstrom AFB for some war games with a mobile unit.

[@tomroderick6041]

Just saw this video tonight. Served from 1971 to 1975 only two places. First was a direct assignment from basicto a Vietnam tour at Nakon Phenom RTAFB then three years at Wright Patterson AFB. At the end of your video I noticed you were heading back to Atlanta. I was born in Atlanta. And except for my time in the Air Force I have lived in this area my entire life. My time in the Air Force was a bit unusual to say the least, but I wouldn't take anything for having served. Never went to any Tech School DDA from Basic to Secret Base in Northern Thailand then directly to Foreign Technology Division at Wright Pat. NO FORMAL training for either, not even OJT. Just sink or swim.

[@atco21117]

Hi Tom - Me 1971-1975 too. I never talk about the bad side of those 4 years, but I was sure a different person when I got in as I was 4 years later when I got out. Yet, it made me what I am as an adult. Thanks for sharing your time in the Air Force. See ya -- Atco

[@tomroderick6041]

@@atco21117 Thanks for your reply. Did not mention it in my previous comment, but after watching some of your other videos I thought I would identify myself a little better. WA4GIM 73

[@deeholler1]

Just watched this video again. Nicely done, great pics! Really tells the tale and sure takes me back.

[@atco21117]

Hi Dee - Glad you enjoyed it. Yep, memories....

[@Jimmerca]

Glad you found your pictures and thanks for sharing. Definitely takes me back in time I serve from 1971-1975. Chanute Air Force Base for training, Minot North Dakota, Utapao Thailand and then Edwards Air Force Base flight test center. When I left Thailand for the states I had four rolls of film to have developed when I arrived home but Savon drugstores lost all four rolls and I had no pictures for memories there. 😢 🇺🇸✈️

[@atco21117]

Hi Jim - Glad you enjoyed the pictures. Yep, does bring ya back to your time with the Air Force. See ya -- Atco

[@austinmillbarge8731]

Wow! They really PCS'd people far more often then when I joined in 1997! Thanks for uploading these pics. I was stationed in Korea and Okinawa and of course traveled to the Philippines and Thailand, so it wasn't those pics that caught me eye, but rather the dormitories, especially that tiny TV. But seeing the bike on the beach just proves what a waste of time it would have been to spend your opportunity to live in so many places watching TV anyway. Thanks for the upload.

[@atco21117]

Well Austin, we all wish we did things different in the past. Man, I was in the PI for 15 months. Went to Manila once. Spent all the rest of my time in the bars off the base. Oh well. Thanks for your comment. See ya -- Atco

[@barrygrant2907]

Enlisted in the AF in '71, went to Thailand (Korat, U-Tapao, Takali) in '72. 1505s were the best. Chanute for tech school.

[@atco21117]

Hi Barry - Sounds like we got a lot in common! See ya -- Atco

[@tmoss1900]

Pretty cool, thank you for your service. Spent 8yrs active duty myself at Dyess AFB 82/90.

[@atco21117]

Eight years, that's great man! See ya -- Atco

[@grob4382]

I like the ford maverick in the background in the last picture. The 70s were the best. USAF 1974-1995

[@Empathicveteran]

My father was a missile launch officer at Ellsworth AFB from 1968 to 1975.

[@r.peterlucarelli1605]

Thanks for sharing. Ubon 71-72 and Osan 74-5. K-9

[@atco21117]

R.Peter Lucarelli Hi R.P - Always great to hear from a service guy from the 70s. I went to a class in DC in the 80s where I ran into a guy I met at a bar in the Philippines around 73. We could see that we knew each other, but didn't know where. Took awhile to figure it out, but it finally hit us. Also, I met a girl in Thailand that I ran into on a beach in Florida years later. It's amazing how you can run into people again all around the world. Thanks for your comment. See ya -- Atco

[@r.peterlucarelli1605]

Thanks for the reply. Yes it is a small world. Currently in Thailand now, have been for 14 months..semi-retired but moving back to GA in July. This place brings back memories for sure.

[@glennspears839]

USAF, 81250/81130 '71-'74 Linebacker I & II RAMP Rat.....

[@ltunedkc]

USAF '86-'90. Lackland-Lowry-Mtn Home, ID. F-111 Avionics technician then A-10 in the reserves for 4 years. Separated in '94 and wish I had stayed in longer!

[@polycarphunter2257]

68-72. after lackland and Sheppard AFB for my tech school (43151c crew chief 1&2 engines) my first duty station was Laredo AFB working on T-38s. got tired of texas so volunteered for vietnam (70-71) Tua Hoa AB, F-100s and Danang AB, F-4s. got back stateside and went to Holloman AFB in NM to continue crewing F-4Ds.. during my remaining time at Holloman went on two TDYs. Ramstein AFB for a 30 day NATO exercise. got back from that TDY and sent on another TDY a few months later to Takhli AB for five months. the base had been closed for a couple years so we got there and the jungle was taking over the base. hotter than hell. then lucked out and sent to Hickam AB in Hawaii for two weeks recovering our F-4s on their back stateside. then discharged two months later. so i did get to travel a lot in four years.

[@DavidEVogel]

About 1969 went TDY to Thailand. Issued jungle fatigues. Loved that uniform.

[@josemoreno3334]

looks like you had fun. Thank you for your service.

[@solardiyhobbyandrevies8118]

Loved this

[@atco21117]

Hi Grumpy - Things have changed there, as I have! See ya -- Atco

[@maryannamerica6934]

Thx for the memories!!!! I served Air Force 1978... Keesler AFB Great pics!!!!!🇺🇸

[@atco21117]

Thanks Maryann - always good to hear from another Air Force person! See ya -- Atco

[@bobbybeck1308]

Great video. I served in the USAF from feb. 1969-feb. 1973.

[@atco21117]

Hi Bobby - You were in my same era. Yep, it's funny, I was in the Air Force only for 4 years but do think about those years quite often. Thanks for your comment! See ya -- Atco

[@charleshall9755]

Joined the Air Force may 1967 served 2 years at Vandenburg AFB near Lompoc Calif. then 15 months at CCK AFB Taichung Taiwan got out 5 months early because they wouldn't reassign anyone with less than 6 months left at the time. Had great assignments and my only regrets were I didn't take any pictures to look back on....

[@atco21117]

Hi Charles - Yeah, I could have spent more time traveling around the area of my various assignments. But, being 19 years old or so I landed up too often spent in the bars. Glad I did make it thru a few visits and picture or two. Overall, I enjoyed my 4 years with the AirForce. See ya -- Atco

[@atomicorang]

Thank you for your service Airman.

[@atco21117]

Thank you for your message! Yeah, when I was in the service during the Vietnam era, it was rare to here that. People seemed to hate the war. Heck, I was drafted. Yet many people would hate a service person just because they were in that era. Glad that most people today appreciate our service people, firemen and police now! See ya -- Atco

[@anotherdave5107]

you're lucky, a lot of those places still exist. They deleted my base, command, a/c and afsc. stationed at Plattsburgh AFB in SAC on FB111A in EW.

[@sawfingers1750]

I was stationed at Plattsburgh’72-75.

[@EagleEyeM4]

My dad was stationed in the Philippines 1973-1974. He worked as an air frame repairman.

[@atco21117]

Hi EE - That was my time too! I was on the flight line repairing navigation equipment. Your Dad and I would never work together as our buildings and equipment were different. But I wouldn't be surprised if we hit a beer or two somewhere along the bars outside the base! See ya -- Atco

[@steveperry1344]

i was in 68/72, thnx for sharing i really enjoyed it

[@atco21117]

Hi Steve - Hard to believe how the years have gone by, huh? See ya -- Atco

[@curtisbrown5728]

wow! I was there in 72-76. i also worked on c-130's in the 317th AMS(doppler radar). also went TDY to Thailand, but the coolest thing is I had the same motorcycle as YOU!!! a 71 CL350! same color too! Bought it new for $700, now i'm 63yr & just bought another one for $2500. In my barracks i had one of the 1st ever microwave's , the commander thought it was some kind of funny looking TV (not supposed to cook in your room).You're cool dude ! Curtis in FLORIDA

[@atco21117]

Hi Curtis - We sure worked close to each other back in the AirForce. It's funny about the motorcycles... boy, in my area, or maybe everywhere, the Japanese motorcycles of the 60s-80s have become very collectible and are hitting high prices. I had about 6 bikes over my life and sold my last motorcycle (kawasaki vulcan) 2 years ago. I think I'm done with "em now, but you never know. If one shows up one day that trips my trigger...well, I did keep my helmet just in case. See ya -- Atco

[@jerryh9307]

Thanks for your service. I took a similar route. After tech school at Chanute off to Okinawa then to DM at Tucson.

[@nan16cd]

Air Force life was good!! We lived like officers. I was at Clark AFB and spent some time at Korat and Utapao.

[@rickypierce9188]

Was in the 374th FMS 1972 /73 @ CCKAB, TAIWAN. and at Tahkli,Thailand.

[@MYZTICTRAVLER]

Fantastic trip down memory lane! This video rocketed me straight back to my three years in the orient. First to "The Kun." 8th TFW/Wolf Pack: 76-78/46251. Then to Clark AFB/PACAF: 78-79/46251. Entered service in 76. Retired in 1996. Did ten years reserve with one return to duty notice. As you can see from my AFSC I was closely involved with your AFSC. Part of my AFSC involved aircraft maintenance on weapons systems and electrics. Both on the aircraft and in-shop repairs. I would be working on a plane while you guys were too. I had a life threatening event take place during a munitions load when an avionics troop got in the cockpit and actually managed to eject a bomb we had just loaded. Right at my feet......😱😱😱

[@atco21117]

Cool that you made it to retire with the Air Force! I recently ran into a young man from the Philippines. Boy, lost chanced there from when I was there in the 70s! See ya -- Atco

[@georgepetrillo7316]

Thank you for your service. My father was Air Force too. Two tours in Vietnam. He was at Clark AFB as well, flying missions out of Clark to Vietnam. He did 31 years; 21 active and 10 reserve.

[@ThatAirsoftGuy_2008]

My papa was in the Air Force in 1970...I have his jacket and it’s awesome

[@atco21117]

Glad you kept that Jacket! Kinda wish I had kept mine. See ya -- Atco

[@rvnmedic1968]

Cool production, Atco! I enlisted in the AF in 1965 for computer programming and wound up being a med tech. Go figure. LOL Did a total of 35 years with a tour in Vietnam and the Pentagon. Cheers from a Lifer Chief!

[@atco21117]

Man Lifer - You got into Computers in 1965? Wow, that was new and those units where huge! When I was leaving after my 4 years in 1975, I didn't know what to do for a job. My supervisor told me to get into these computers like IBM and Burroughs. So when I got hope, sure enough in my town there was a Burroughs office in about 5 miles from home. I never heard for them, but thought I'd give it a shot. I went to get an application. They asked me for a test right now. I did and got the job while I was there. Stayed with them for 10 years. Finished up my computer career as a network manager. See ya -- Atco

[@rvnmedic1968]

@@atco21117 Man Lifer? Yeah, I suppose. LOL In 1965 b4 going into the AF, I attended an 8 week course in IBM 1401 programming (punch card days and big tape reels) in Manhattan. Went to look for jobs with my certificate and they wanted someone with 20 years experience that was under 30 years of age. That's when I talked to mil recruiters and the AF supposedly had enlisted jobs with computers. At the end of basic training, the DI read out the assignments - I got medical corpsman duty. Not even close! LOL Sounds like you done good, boy. Cheers, Bob

[@atomicorang]

Chief…..Thank you for your service. Retired aircraft maintenance 79-2004.Started on AT-38B at Holloman ended at Tinker R model KC-135.

[@robertjetter6408]

Thank you, you brought back done great memories. I served in USAF 1970-74. SAC, B-52 flight line grunt. Chanute. Westover. Kadena. U-Tapao. Dover. Used my military skills for a 45 year career at Boeing, CH-47s. We DID look cool didnt we? Thanks again

[@atco21117]

That's all my years too in the Air Force! Thanks for your comment! See ya -- Atco

[@DavidEVogel]

Small world. I was TDY to U-Tapao several times from 1969 to 1974. Worked with the U-2 aircraft

[@joehead1294]

Yeah, zig-zag tread on the boots @0:32. I remember those. Imitation leather maybe. Never saw that uniform that he's wearing though. Pickle suit, you bet.

[@57lexus]

Man it was good seeing these pics. I was stationed at Clark AFB 77-78, 3rd AGS. F-4Es. Remember the good Stereo equipment at the BX. Midnight express from the main gate, and the Fire Empire lol.

[@atco21117]

Hi 57 - Yep, the quest was to get the best stereo system you could. I bought the best I could get at the BX and got it half of what you'd pay in the US. Man, all those days we'd listen to music and rock the sound thru the house. Today, I guess it's whatever songs someone has downloaded to their smartphone and listens to it via ear buds. Things sure have changed! See ya -- Atco

[@pgh45rpms]

I was in the Air Force 1970-1974. Six weeks basic at Lackland; tech school at Keesler & Goodfellow AFB and Ft. Devins MA. Overseas tours at Karamursel Turkey & RAF Chicksands UK. Pickle fatigues a common sight. Dorm furniture identical to yours. Great photo collection. Thanks for serving.

[@pgh45rpms]

@FANBOY Lets' Plays It's up to the individual what you make of it. Roughest adjustment for Army & Marine Corp, since they were headed to Southeast Asia during my time in service. The draft was in full force and a lot of us got to pick the branch of our choice. Most guys were in late teens or early 20's -- a period for growing up. It was a challenge in Turkey due to the cultural difference. But being in the U.K. was like being in a different U.S. state. In Turkey there were US and Turkish navy detachments on base. Ft. Devins was an army training post. Service offered the chance to sightsee and learn about other cultures.

[@pgh45rpms]

@FANBOY Lets' Plays I spent about ten days in Germany while enroute to Turkey, December 1970. Landed at Frankfurt am Main, travelled by bus to Weisbaden where I departed. Had to stay onbase while in transit. Met some German citizens who worked on base. Also some pilots who were officers in the West German Air Force. My great grandparents were from the Weisbaden area and sailed to America in 1840's.

[@pgh45rpms]

@FANBOY Lets' Plays Good luck to you. Basic training is at Lackland AFB, Texas near San Antonio. My basic was six weeks long, but now it's 8 1/2 weeks. Biggest thing to remember is to follow orders and work as a team.

[@pgh45rpms]

@FANBOY Lets' Plays Your time in the jrotc program gives you an advantage. Some of your basic training will seem like a refresher course.

[@captainjohn7833]

Made me want'a go dig out my old photos from 73-77. But, It's 1:15am, maybe come daylight, If I can hold the nostalgic mood. Speaking of when, first thing that popped into my mind was arrival at Lackland. 11:30pm, January, 45°, and drizzling rain. Standing outside of some old WW II look'n dorms, waiting on the MTI to show up. Off in the distance I could see the nice shiny new dorms the Recruiting Sgt. had told me that I'd be living in, and thinking, what the hell! This isn't right! I'm supposed to be over there! What tha'fuck! With the dim little street lite-bulb hanging off the top of a telephone pole lighting the group of us up. All looking just as freaked out. That's when I learned in the service, you go where they send you. I was just lucky enough to be assigned to one of the last remaining of the old dorms. A real bitch making that place shine, but, we held Honor Flight for the last four weeks of basic. So, I guess we did ok. 🚬👓...

[@atco21117]

Hi Captain - Yeah, I was looking at the current dorms in the AirForce. Man, I could move in there now and feel like home! See ya -- Atco

[@wadebarnett2542]

I spent my whole time at Kingsley Field, OR. I was disappointed that I never left the USA at all.

[@atco21117]

Hi Wade - Yeah, that happens. My brother was in the Navy for 4 years. Never left the USA too. Just the draw I guess. Thanks for your comment. See ya -- Atco

[@wadebarnett2542]

@@atco21117 "Join the Navy and see the world." Ha!

[@hofico6]

Nice memories! Brought some back for me as well, USAF 1974-1998

[@atco21117]

Hey man, 1974-1998... Thanks for you service! -- Atco

[@LB-ty6ks]

Great video. I too am an AF vet, 1962-1968.

[@atco21117]

Good to hear from you! -- Atco

[@johnanderson8046]

I'd forgotten all about the "rope" thing in tech school! They usually picked those with the longest tech schools.

[@atco21117]

Hi John - Yeah, I was in tech school for 8 months. Spent most of my time in 3 shift, 11:30pm to 7am. Was great, few people bothered us. See ya -- Atco

[@anthonygalvez8744]

Ah the memories!

[@danmilosevich]

76 to 95 here. Things are sooo soo so different now.

[@MrBikercat]

I was at Chanute in 75 for avionics. found out recently that it's closed.

[@atco21117]

That's too bad that Chanute closed. I worked on avionics too. I worked on F4, C130, A7 and A10s. Hard to believe that the C130s and A10s are still active planes. See ya -- Atco

[@FlyDog79]

Just retired. 1998-2022. Man I wish they still issued those khakis.

[@atco21117]

Congratulations for your retirement! -- Atco

[@usernamemykel]

These are great. Wish I had more photos of my USAF life. Joined in 1967, basic at Lackland (when we were "chairmen", not real soldiers), and just when I thought I'd be leaving lowly Lackland, they put me in crypto school, right there. After crypto school, Suffolk County AFB, NY (since decommissioned) only an hour and a half drive to/from "home". Can't complain.

[@389gtoful]

Good photos.I Was in Thailand 1-73 to 7-73 with the F-111's. Sometimes I look at my old photos as well.I was with the 474Th MMS out of Nellis.Thanks for sharing.N.Parker SSGT USAF Retired.

[@atco21117]

Hi SSGT - Great to hear from another USAF guy. I went TDY from Clark to U-Tapao during the 1970s. Thanks for your comment. See ya -- Atco

[@michaelferguson693]

389gtoful

[@larrysullivanl8732]

389gtoful , korat 72, hydraulics.

[@cadamsm11]

Very Cool. I was a bit later, and older (25) when I joined during the first Gulf War. Chris, SSGT, USAF, ‘91-‘99.

[@atco21117]

Hi Ghris - Thanks for saying Hi! -- Atco

[@STEVEGHAN]

I wouldn't be here thanks to you gentlemen 555 my father was stationed in Udon with the Triple Nickel

[@tomservo5347]

Looks like you enjoyed your time traveling overseas. Seeing different cultures and how other people live always leaves a mark on someone whether they're aware of it or not. A Navy veteran friend of mine said Thailand was exotic while the Philippines made him appreciate how good he really had it in the States. He says if you want a wife that can cook, clean, and raise kids then marry a Filipino. He said the catch is you're marrying her family also.

[@atco21117]

Hi Tom - Yes, I'm glad I enjoyed the changes of different cultures in my time in the 1970s. Unfortunately, too many cultures are blending together now. Thanks for your comment! -- Atco

[@atco21117]

At least different experiences that I had before and after! Thanks for your comment. -- Atco

[@dridemoto]

Great video! Thanks for sharing.

[@atco21117]

Thanks Danny! -- Atco

[@freedive2370]

very cool

[@cmscms123456]

I served from 1974 to 1977, Barksdale AFB LA. and Ramstein AB Germany. The Air Force was going through big changes in the 1970's. 1968 Air Force personal = 904,000 1975 down to 612,000, 1980 down to 557,000, 2014 326,000. I remember when I was getting out, they were throwing people out for all kinds of reasons, many "over weight" many NO RE-ENLIST. Now I see why, they were shedding 300,000 people. From the late 60's to mid 70's the Air Force shed nearly 1/3 of their total force. Today the Air Force is only 1/3 its size compared to 1968. With new technology, Im thinking the Air Force might get under 200,000, maybe 150,000

[@atco21117]

Interesting stuff, thanks CMS! -- Atco

[@Darylvb]

September 1972 - September 1976. 6 weeks of basic training then 2 weeks of casual. Then 9 months at Crypto school right there on Lackland. Then was assigned to Griffiss AFB in Rome New York at the 485th EIS and spent the next three years there doing a lot of TDY to Scott AFB, Azores, Carp in Canada, but mostly at the Pentagon.

[@atco21117]

Hi Daryl - That was my time in the Air Force too! See ya -- Atco

[@tonypresti5810]

Casual seemed like a jail sentence didn't it?

[@Darylvb]

@@tonypresti5810 yeah, I remember sweeping the base gymnasium floor several times.

[@davenone7312]

I was in from 1974-1978. Comm guy on B-52's, KC-135's, T-38's, U-2's and the SR-71's. Can you guess which base I was stationed at?

[@atco21117]

Hi Dave - After boot, I went to Keesler in Mississippi, then Tampa Florida, then Philippines and finished up in Tuscon Arizona. 1971-1975. i'm not sure where you were stationed, but since you worked on the SR-71 then maybe Beale in California? -- Atco

[@davenone7312]

Yup it was Beale AFB. Was at Keesler Mar-Sept 1974.

[@terrydouglas5008]

In 1972 I was an instructor at Lowry.