In partnership with the Veterans Coordination Commission, I am pleased to present the May, 2005 Veteran of the Month, Wayne F. Cottrell.

Wayne F. Cottrell entered the United States Air Force in November, 1950 and received basic training at Sheppard AFB, Texas. After attending Aircraft Maintenance School, he was assigned to March AFB in California followed by various assignments in the United States, England and Vietnam. Wayne was assigned to Ellsworth AFB in 1972 and retired with the rank of E-7 Master Sergeant in 1974. Wayne’s military decorations include the Air Force Commendation medal, Presidential Unit citation, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Clusters, Air Force Good Conduct medal with Clusters, National Defense Service medal, Vietnam Service medal, Air Force Longevity service award with Clusters, Air Force NCO Professional Military Education Graduate ribbon, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship ribbon, Republic of Viet Nam Gallantry Cross Unit citation, and Republic of Viet Nam Campaign medal.

During his Air Force career, Wayne completed requirements for his GED and furthered his education at National College with an Associates Degree in electronics in 1983. Wayne was an automotive maintenance instructor at the Nemo Job Corps Center for nine years and is semi-retired.

Wayne’s community involvement has been varied. He has been a Cub Scout Pack Master in England and a volunteer at the Aerospace Museum at Ellsworth, helping to restore old aircraft. He is currently Vice Chairman of the National Cemetery Committee and was instrumental in the formation of the Avenue of Flags at the National Cemetery of the Black Hills. Wayne is a past volunteer for the SAFE Halloween Project. He is a life member of TREA and holds the position of 3rd Vice President of the Board of Directors and participates as a member of TREA Chapter 29 Honor Guard. He currently serves as a Trustee of the TREA National Memorial Foundation. Wayne is a member of the Disabled American Veterans Association where he currently holds the position of Post Commander. Additionally, he is a life member of the local VFW in Rapid City.

Wayne has two children - a son and grandchild in Minneapolis and a son in St. Augustine, Florida.