In partnership with the Veterans Coordination Commission, we are pleased to present the April, 2006 Veteran of the Month – Chester “Chet” K. Westman.

Chet grew up in the Monticello area of Minnesota and joined the United States Air Force in 1966. He trained in the Aircraft Propulsion field on jet engines and cross-trained into the boomer operator field on the KC 135 and E135. Chet flew tankers from 1978 to 1991 and retired as a Master Sergeant (E7) from Langley, Virginia. Chet was stationed at many military bases in the United States and overseas, including a tour to Southeast Asia.

Chet’s military decorations and awards include: AF Senior Air Crew Member Badge, Meritorious Service Medal w/Bronze OLC, Joint Service Commendation Medal, AF Commendation Medal w/Bronze OLC, AF Achievement Medal, AF Outstanding Unit Award w/Bronze OLC, Combat Readiness Medal w/Bronze OLC, AF Good Conduct Medal w/Silver & Bronze OLC, National Defense Service Medal w/Service Star, AF Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, AF Longevity Service Award Ribbon w/Silver OLC, NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, AF Training Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/Palm Device, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

One of Chet’s greatest accomplishments during his time in the Air Force was being selected as Crew Chief for the 3rd AD Commanders plane. He was responsible, on a moment’s notice, to have the plane ready for dignitaries, diplomats and VIP missions.

After retirement from the Air Force, Chet returned to Rapid City to sell insurance and since 1994, has been an Associate Instructor at one of the BH Workshop resident homes. He is a life member of TREA, currently serving as 2nd Vice President, and is the Chairman of the TREA Honor Guard. Chet is also a life member of the Disabled American Veterans and the Eagles. Chet and his wife Mary Ann have three grown children. Son Kevin and wife Tracey have two children; daughter Sheri and husband Cory Brown have two children and daughter Kasey and husband Terry Ireland have one child.