10 June 1969: The U.S. Air Force donated the first North American Aviation X-15, serial number 56-6670, to the Smithsonian Institution for display at the National Air and Space Museum. The first of three X-15A hypersonic research rocketplanes built by North American for the Air Force and the National Advisory Committee (NACA, the predecessor of NASA), 56-6670 made the first glide flight and
Brigadier-General Garry S. Bahling is assigned as the chief of staff, Headquarters, Michigan Air National Guard. As the chief of staff, he directs the activities of the Headquarters, Michigan Air National Guard (ANG), located in Lansing, and assists in the administration of the ANG units located at Selfridge ANG Base near Mount Clemens, Battle Creek ANG Base, and the Combat Readiness Training Center in Alpena, Michigan.
General Bahling received his commission as a second lieutenant in July 1969. He was the commander of the 107th Fighter Squadron from 1986 to 1990, during which time he was the Fighter Squadron “Top Gun”. During his command, the 107thconverted from the A-7 aircraft to the F-16A. He attended F-16 school in April 1990 and was “Top Gun” in his class. General Bahling completed his career with the 127th Fighter Wing as director of operations in May of 1993. He was transferred to Headquarters, Michigan Air National Guard as director of operations, and was appointed to his current position as chief of staff in May 1996.
Next to my bride, the ANG was the best thing to happen to me. And the best part of the ANG was the HUN years! So very grateful to those who organized the SSS and publish the magnificent “Intake,” thus bringing back so many wonderful memories. Thank you!!
