Honoring Our Veterans
This page is dedicated to honoring the Veterans in our community for their service and telling their stories.
What Tom Brokaw referred to as "The Greatest Generation" is quickly declining in number. This, of course, refers to not only our World War II Veterans but also to the families that supported those veterans in the war effort. These are some of the veteran's personal stories pertaining to their own war efforts. It's the club's hope that should you be so inclined, you will reach out individually to these veterans and get to know them a little better.
We will start with the World War II Veterans as we do not want to lose their stories. The goal is then to get stories from all Sunflower Veterans. Click on the veterans name below their picture to read that veteran's story.
Charles DeFoe, Staff Sargent – United States Air Force Veteran
Charles DeFoe proudly served in the United States Air Force, beginning his military career with basic training in San Antonio, Texas, at Lackland Air Force Base. He enlisted early January 1964. After completing basic training, he attended technical school for Aerospace Ground Equipment at Rantoul Air Force Base in Illinois. Following his training, Charles was stationed at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida for two and half years. From there, he was deployed to VÅ©ng TÃ u Air Base in Vietnam, where he performed duties in both remote radar site operations and forward air control. During his service in Vietnam, he achieved a significant milestone with his promotion to Staff Sergeant, an accomplishment he holds in high regard. In addition to his Vietnam service, Charles was also deployed to the Dominican Republic, where he played a critical role in providing generator power to support a Crypto Unit for several months. After separation right before Christmas 1967, he returned home from military service, Charles utilized the GI Bill to further his education, studying electronics at a technical school in Florida. He then began his civilian career working at a television and appliance repair shop in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Charles maintains a deep respect for the veteran community. Reflecting on his own experiences, he offers this advice to younger generations: if you are uncertain about your future path, consider joining the military. It can provide valuable skills, direction, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Thank you for your service Chuck!
