30 September 1950 – The International Astronautical Federation (IAF) was founded in 1951, when scientists from the field of space research gathered in an attempt to ensure a constant dialogue between the space nations, regardless of political turmoil. In its early years, the Federation and its annual International Astronautical Congresses – better known as the
After my 3 years at MAC, I got my shot at Viet Nam!
I was assigned to the 56th Special Operations Wing at Nakhon Phanom Thailand (NKP) and attended the pilot’s “Jungle Survival” School in the Philippines to be come eligible to fly combat. Because I was Deputy Wing Commander for Logistics (Aircraft Maintenance and Supply), I was able to fly only 20 combat missions. 17 in the small reconnaissance QU-22B, and 1 mission in the OV-10A Forward Air Control airplane, the A-1H Propeller Fighter Bomber and the AC-119 K Gun Ship…and a couple of flights in the CH-3 and 53 helicopters. (Not the “HH” rescue versions.)
After completing that one year tour I was sent back to Norton as Deputy Wing Commander for Logistics.
The rules had changed and the Air Force wouldn’t let O-6s fly any more unless they occupied a flying position…which I did not! So, then came retirement!