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After leaving Bainbridge I was assigned to Goodfellow AFB for basic multi engine training. My instructors there were both
hard nose guys that I thought couldn't be pleased, but I guess it was a blessing in disguise, because they both were transferred
to the Stand Board before I graduated. With graduation there were not many good assignments available; I was offered a slot
in Basic Instructor school and jumped right on it. I pulled the rest of my tour right there and when the Air Force decided
to change missions at Goodfellow, I took a separation from active duty and returned home to the small ranch my father owned.
He wasn't in good health and passed away shortly after my release.
I formed a partnership with my brother and we bought a farm implement dealership with my brother operating the dealership
and me running the farm and ranch operation. This lasted five years and culminated with the dealership nearly losing the entire
business. I wasn't pleased with the thought of losing everything and I determined to recover the whole operation. This took
many years, but I recovered and then went through a series of businesses, including feed, seed and grain; finally ending up
in the nursery business, which I'm now busy with.
I went through a bitter divorce that lasted ten years, which most people say can't happen, but it did. The marriage did
at least produce one daughter and three sons and who are all useful law abiding citizens. I have six grandchildren--three
boys and three girls, ages two to twenty.
I have spent a lifetime in love with airplanes that started long before the Air Force. I have had the pleasure of owning
several aircraft, including a Taylorcraft BC12 D, Cessna 172, 280, 195 and Aero Commander 560 Twin. My lifetime favorite was
the Aero Commander 680 Super that I did a lot of charter flying in. My present love is a Bellanca Super Viking 17-30 A. I
would enjoy hearing from any of you.1200 Ave. F, NW, Childress, TX., 79201, Telephone 940-937-4348; 888-869-4348.
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