Skinner, Don, CMSgt

TO THE BEST OF YOUR KNOWLEDGE, WHAT INFLUENCED HIS/HER DECISION TO JOIN THE AIR FORCE?

Basic training graduation photo

I began working as a carpenter after high school, but soon realized that I desired something more for a career. In my economic situation, it appeared that the military service was the answer to obtain the training I desired. Most of my male relatives (uncles and older cousins) had served in World War II, so I sought their advice concerning opportunities. Based on their experiences and suggestions, I chose the Air Force as the best place to obtain a career and an education.

TO THE BEST OF YOUR KNOWLEDGE, PLEASE DESCRIBE THE DIRECTION OR PATH HE/SHE TOOK IN HIS/HER MILITARY SERVICE. WHERE DID THEY GO FOR BASIC TRAINING AND WHAT UNITS, BASES OR SQUADRONS WERE THEY ASSIGNED TO? WHAT WAS HIS/HER REASON FOR LEAVING?
Although the Air Force was nearing two years as a separate military service, there were some things that had not changed. Despite the growing need for technically trained personnel, basic training was still based on turning out combat infantry troops. Our basic training was approximately 16 weeks in duration. We

Retirement eremony -1974

had 41 men in our flight - 4 squads of 10 each, and a right guide. Being the tallest at 6'2", I was made "A" Squad Leader, with the shortest (5"1") being named right guide. Our flight chief (as DIs/TIs were known then) was Corporal Peterson, a slight man but who was firm and fair. He told you once, and you were expected to do. If you did, you had no trouble. I had no trouble. Our curriculum consisted on much marching, close-order drill, many appearances at the firing ranges, PT, and off-duty details such as guard duty, fire watches, and unloading numerous freight cars. There were remedial classes in English, math, and science, but most classroom time was given to teaching history and traditions, proper wear of the uniform, care and cleaning individual weapons (including learning to field-strip and assemble the M-1 rifle, the M-2 carbine, and the 1911 Colt pistol, while blindfolded.)

Because field trips (bivouac) was common, the importance of the "horseshoe roll" back pack was stressed. The roll consisted of the shelter half, 2 blankets, and tent poles. This would be rolled into the horseshoe roll, draped over the back pack and secured by a strap at the top and on each end. The pack contained items such as clothing, shoes, rations, and personal items. Technical training seemed an afterthought. There were no flight photos taken. Individual portraits were made. We were issued O.D. uniforms, but on picture day, we were marched to a building where, one at a time, we entered, removed our O.D. blouse and put on a blue blouse, over our poplin shirt and tie for a black and white photo. Each man (most) was then given promotion orders to PFC, as well as orders to a technical training center or to a duty-directed assignment. I had requested several fields, but was told that with my test scores, I would be sent to radar maintenance school.

I was initially trained in radar maintenance on specialized airborne (B-29) bombing equipment, but was sent to a Troop Carrier unit in Japan. After a short time, I realized this was not what I desired, so I asked for a transfer to a B-29 unit where my training could be utilized. With the Korean War starting up, I was sent to a heavy ground radar unit in Korea. There, because I did not know the equipment, I was assigned to a jeep patrol forward air control unit. In the spring of 1951 when the Army assumed this duty, I was assigned to one of the auto-track ground-directed bombing radar sites known as "Tadpoles." Here, I served as maintenance and assistant controller. When my 1-year tour neared an end, I was extended for 6 months because of my "knowledge, experience, and expertise." Later, I was assigned to another radar site, and in February, 1952, I was selected to take equipment and establish yet another radar bombing site at Kumwha.

When I returned from Korea in 1952, I was assigned to Keesler AFB, first in the maintenance shop maintaining the ground radar equipment used in school, and later in the maintenance section maintaining the auto-track trainers. While in Korea, my MOS 867 had been converted to 30251 AFSC. At Keesler, it was changed to 30353, Auto-Track Maintenance.

In 1954, I was sent to Patrick AFB, Florida to assist in activating the AF's second tactical missile unit. The only operational tactical missile at that time, the B-61A "Matador", unofficially designated a Pilotless Bomber, was later known as the TM-61A. The unit was then deployed to Germany where I served on radar sites used for Matador missile guidance. This was done by a secret guidance system that utilized the radar beam and eliminated radio commands.

From 1956-1959, I was at Eglin AFB, FL, serving as radar maintenance and controller in the range work such as safety-monitoring, bomb drops, intercepts, missile launches, and general range research work. I also was selected to activate a new range for Air Launched Ballistic Missiles at Cape San Blas, Florida, setting up a radar system to track, monitor, and record information concerning missile flight and impact.

I later returned to Keesler AFB to attend a school on auto-track radar equipment.

In 1959, I returned to Germany, assigned to the 601st Tactical Control Squadron (OL 8) for more Matador missile guidance, utilizing the latest in auto-track radars, the MSQ-1A. At one time, I was the only enlisted man in Europe certified to run a Matador mission. We also participated in ground-support missions with all NATO nations, particularly Germany and France.

I returned to the U.S. in 1962 to Detachment 9, 11th RBS Squadron (Winslow, Arizona,) where I was assigned to the maintenance crew. We later moved the site to St. George, Utah. I was selected to attend the first class of factory school for a new system Reeves Instrument Company was building for RBS, and some months later was selected as maintenance man for the field tests in White Sands, New Mexico. I also was the maintenance man assigned to the RBS Express (a specially-equipped railway train with all site radar and ECM equipment aboard.) This TDY was at Thoreau, New Mexico.

I was stationed at the St. George site until 1964 when I was sent to 10th RBS Squadron Headquarters at Carswell AFB, and served there as maintenance staff supervisor until 1966. I attended the SAC NCO Academy at Barksdale in January - March, 1966, graduating as Outstanding Graduate. I was then transferred to 1st Combat Evaluation Group at Barksdale AFB, LA where I became a member of the Staff Inspection Team for all detachments, as well as installing and supervising two radar systems (Michigan and Utah) used to train SAC pilots on evading and avoiding SAM-2 missiles. I was selected in the summer of 1966 to assist in re-writing the 5 and 7 level skill tests for the Auto-Track radar maintenance field. In early 1967, I was requested to take over maintenance supervision of all the ground-directed bombing radars in Vietnam and Thailand which I did until 1968 when our site was attacked during Tet, and I was critically wounded. When I was discharged from the hospital, I was assigned to Aiken AFS, SC (861st Radar Sqdn) where I served in various functions until I became Chief of Maintenance. In 1973, I was sent to Opheim AFS, MT (779th Radar Sqdn) as Chief of Maintenance. I retired at Opheim on May 1, 1974.

IF HE/SHE PARTICIPATED IN ANY MILITARY OPERATIONS, INCLUDING COMBAT, HUMANITARIAN AND PEACEKEEPING OPERATIONS, TO THE BEST OF YOUR KNOWLEDGE, PLEASE DESCRIBE THOSE YOU FEEL WERE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT TO HIM/HER AND, IF LIFE-CHANGING, IN WHAT WAY.

Japan - March, 1951 (R &R)

As a forward air controller in Korea, I was exposed to potential combat. The radio equipment used in the jeeps had no facilities for remote operations, so men and equipment were necessarily exposed while observing enemy targets. The unit I was associated with lost several men to small-arms fire. The radar we used at the ground-directed bombing sites was very short range, and consequently, the sites were positioned near the front. (http://www.1stcombatevaluationgroup.com/GDBInKorea.htm) Several of the areas were heavily probed by enemy patrols, so skirmishes occurred, as site personnel were responsible for security.

In Vietnam all of our bombing sites were liable for attack, mainly rocket and mortar fire, but occasionally ground action was involved. In an 18-month period, our unit lost 18 men to small-arms fire, and 1 by artillery. Some 8-10 were wounded in two separate incidents.

OF ALL THEIR DUTY STATIONS OR ASSIGNMENTS, ARE YOU AWARE OF ANY HE/SHE HAD FONDEST MEMORIES OF AND WHY? WHICH WAS THEIR LEAST FAVORITE?

Assigned 861st Radar Sqdn - 1968

Aiken Air Force Station, Aiken, South Carolina. The unit was a ground radar surveillance unit. I spent 5 years assigned there to various tasks ranging from Maintenance Quality Control NCOIC, FPS-7 radar tower supervisor and Chief of Maintenance. I also met, and married, my wife while stationed here. I returned to Aiken after my retirement, and we settled into retirement life. We had 37 years together before she unexpectedly died from a rare bronchial infection in July, 2006.

FROM THEIR ENTIRE MILITARY SERVICE, DESCRIBE ANY PERSONAL MEMORIES, YOU MAY BE AWARE OF, WHICH IMPACTED HIM/HER THE MOST.

NCO Acedmy Flight (Class 66-01) Barksdale AFB, LA

Actually, attending and graduating from the SAC [Strategic Air Command] NCO [Non Commissioned Officer] Academy in 1966. I believed that I possessed the necessary skills for leadership but this course of instruction allowed me to implement and improve on all of these. It also taught me much concerning inter-personal communication and relations. I was designated an Outstanding Graduate, finishing 2nd in Academics, 1st in Tactical Training and 2nd in Public Speaking.

WHAT PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS DO YOU BELIEVE HE/SHE WAS MOST PROUD OF FROM HIS/HER MILITARY SERVICE?
I received a Bronze Star Medal with "V" device for my actions during the attack on one of our Vietnam sites, Detachment 15, 1st Combat Evaluation Group on February 24th, 1968. The initial assault killed 3 men and wounded the remaining 7. Although critically wounded, I checked all my men

Bronze Star Medal

and gave first aid as best I could under the conditions. While attempting to move a seriously wounded comrade to a nearby medical facility, I was wounded again but managed to get medical personnel directed to the site. I was evacuated to 3rd Field Hospital in Saigon where I was hospitalized for 3 months before being air-evacuated to the U.S for an additional 9 months of hospitalization, surgery and rehabilitation. I also received the Purple Heart Medal for wounds suffered in this engagement, and an Oak Leaf Cluster for an additional Bronze Star Medal for achievement.


Citation to Accompany the Awarding of the Bronze Star Medal (V Device)

Master Sergeant Donald C. Skinner distinguished himself by heroism while engaged in ground operations against an opposed armed force at Detachment 15, 1st Combat Evaluation Group, Republic of Vietnam on 24 February 1968. On this date, his sleeping quarters were destroyed by a direct impact. Although seriously wounded, he remained and assisted critically wounded survivors. After all personnel were comforted, he proceeded to a nearby hospital to direct medical assistance to the wounded. The quick response and determination to obtain medical air for his fellow men resulted in lives being saved. By his heroic actions and unselfish dedication to duty, Sergeant Skinner has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Seventh Air Force Special Order G-1060, dated 8 April 1968

OF ALL THE MEDALS, AWARDS, FORMAL PRESENTATIONS AND QUALIFICATION BADGES HE/SHE RECEIVED, WHICH WERE THE MOST MEANINGFUL TO HIM/HER AND WHY?

Purple Heart Medal - Awarded Vetnam 1968

Probably the Purple Heart Medal. When I wear the symbol of that award, it is easily recognized and I have had many exceptional conversations with people I have met through their recognizing it. I am able to have a more-perfect relationship with veterans and Wounded Warriors I assist because they know that I have some feeling for what they have endured. I also would have to say the Bronze Star Medal with "V" device, because it reminds me that even under adverse conditions, I was able to utilize my training and past experiences to bring aid and a measure of comfort to those men who had been placed under my command.

IF KNOWN, PLEASE LIST ANY INDIVIDUAL(S) FROM HIS/HER TIME IN THE MILITARY WHO STOOD OUT AS HAVING THE MOST POSITIVE IMPACT ON THEM AND WHY?
Without a doubt, it was Colonel Norman R. McCurdy. He was my commander when I was at RBS [Radar Bomb Scoring] squadron level; I was on his technical staff inspection team at Group; and he was my commander for a time in Vietnam. Although I served with many capable officers, he gave me the self-confidence and also the freedom to make difficult decisions. He knew that every person has limitations and he took that into consideration in evaluating the actions subordinates took. He instilled in us his philosophy of inspection: "Never tell a man he's wrong, tell him he's wrong because..." The meaning of this is if you can detect a flaw or mistake, be sure you can also put forth a solution. If you find errors, explain. In case you can only show what needed to be done, then it was your duty to do exactly that. I have been left at a site by the team so I could properly teach and show correct maintenance procedures. When I was finished, the Group aircraft would pick me up . Colonel McCurdy showed me what leadership meant, as applied to the concept of supporting "the mission and the men."

IF KNOWN, PLEASE RECOUNT THE NAMES OF FRIENDS HE/SHE SERVED WITH, AT WHICH LOCATION, AND WHAT WAS REMEMBERED MOST ABOUT THEM. INDICATE THOSE HE/SHE REMAINED IN TOUCH WITH.
Quite frankly, most of the airmen I served with have passed away. (See my remembrance profiles for Fallen and Deceased Wingmen.) I remember that most of them were exceptionally good friends.

I have seen one (Major Bill Little, who was our Operations Officer in Vietnam) since the attack that wounded me, and took some of my friends. He now lives in England, with his wife, so I have little opportunity to "visit" with him.

I would suspect that somewhere there are airmen I served with, but no one in particular stands out.

ARE YOU AWARE OF ANY PARTICULAR INCIDENT FROM HIS/HER SERVICE, WHICH MAY OR MAY NOT HAVE BEEN FUNNY AT THE TIME, BUT STILL MADE THEM LAUGH LATER ON?

Part of a Class joke 1962

There were many instances of humor I can recall from my career, but one that stands out occurred in 1962 while I was attending a factory school on new equipment in New York. One of the classmates had a bout of serious insomnia, so he purchased some sleeping pills. Another member of the class substituted "No Doz" tablets for the sleeping pills. The poor sergeant was literally kept awake for a week before the prank was revealed. Needless to say, he was not happy, but recovered fully.

Another incident happened at the SAC NCO Academy. We took a flight photo (see attached in other section), then took one with everyone out of uniform - ties undone, jackets open, hats on backward, etc. We mounted both in a large red folder, marked the good one "Before" and the other "After", then printed "Better Luck Next Time" beneath them and presented the folder to our flight chief at the Graduation Dinner. The Academy Commandant thought it was hilarious.

IF HE/SHE SURVIVED MILITARY SERVICE, WHAT PROFESSION(S) DID HE/SHE FOLLOW AFTER DISCHARGE?
When I retired, I took advantage of the GI Bill and obtained two degrees in accounting. I worked at that trade, mostly as a tax accountant or with non-profit organizations until 1992. I had previously begun writing for magazines and newspapers, and eventually published a novel of the Korean War. I became editor of a local magazine, but retired to full-time writing in 2000. I later published 2 more historical reference books, one on the U.S. Marines island campaign in World War II and one concerning the Texas Revolution.

IF KNOWN, WHAT MILITARY ASSOCIATIONS WAS HE OR SHE A MEMBER OF, IF ANY? ARE YOU AWARE OF ANY SPECIFIC BENEFITS THEY DERIVED FROM THEIR MEMBERSHIPS?

Life Member - MOPH

I am a Life member of both the Disabled American Veterans and of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. I am more active with the MOPH. We work in conjunction with the VA, talking to wounded veterans undergoing hospitalization and rehabilitation. I believe we have a special empathy with them as we can truly relate to their particular situation. Our chapter also works with Fort Gordon, Georgia's Wounded Warrior Program. We also work with the County Veterans Council to ensure all veterans are informed of their rights and benefits.

IF HE/SHE SURVIVED MILITARY SERVICE, IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU BELIEVE HIS/HER SERVING IN THE MILITARY INFLUENCED THE WAY THEY APPROACHED THEIR PERSONAL LIFE, FAMILY LIFE AND CAREER?

Current photo as editoe of Aiken Magazine

Serving in the military gave me self-confidence and belief in myself. I knew I was capable of learning and using that knowledge to my benefit. It taught me a greater respect for everyone. I have learned that people are individuals, not groups. Leadership comes from understanding. I have utilized this in several areas, in personal life as well as serving and working with local civic groups.

IF THEY WERE HERE TODAY, WHAT ADVICE DO YOU THINK HE OR SHE WOULD GIVE TO THOSE WHO FOLLOWED IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS AND RECENTLY ENTERED MILITARY SERVICE?
Although the military has vastly changed since I was in, there is still the need for discipline. A major character trait a military person must possess is the ability to adapt. Assignments, equipment, regulations and even the culture all change. So, to be truly successful, a person must have the ability to see beyond the immediate present and adapt to these changes as they occur. Adaptability is one hallmark of true leadership.

HOW EFFECTIVE HAS TOGETHERWESERVED.COM BEEN IN HELPING YOU RECORD YOUR REMEMBERED PERSONS MILITARY SERVICE? DO YOU HAVE ANY ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS YOU WOULD LIKE TO MAKE?

TWS and The USAF

To date I have not located any personnel with which I served through TWS. However, I have greatly widened my own knowledge by communicating with other members. As a ground radar repairman I was never an integral part and parcel of the "flying" Air Force, mostly serving on isolated sites. Through TWS, I have learned about the aircraft crew chiefs, load masters, security personnel, and administrative functions and the like that were also a necessary part of the mission. I have made many acquaintances through TWS that I would otherwise have never made and greatly deepened my understanding of the Air Force overall.

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