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of the Month March 2006  |
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Congratulations
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| In partnership with the Veterans Coordination Commission, we are pleased to present the March, 2006 Veteran of the Month – Gary G. Smither. Gary Smither was born and raised in Anita Iowa, and enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1956. He initially trained as a Heavy Ground Radar Electronics Technician and spent three years in California. He was discharged in 1960 and enrolled in college. He reenlisted in 1963 and received training as an Airborne Navigational Equipment Electronic Technician and cross trained in the Medical Administration field. Gary served in many locations throughout the United States and Europe, with his last assignment at Ellsworth AFB. Gary’s military decorations and awards include: Air Force Commendation Medal w/OLC, Presidential Unit Citation, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award w/silver Device, Air Force Good Conduct w/4 OLC, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon w/4 OLC, Air Force NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon and Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon. Gary retired from
the Air Force in 1980 with the rank of Technical Sergeant. He was employed
by the SD Dept. of Health as an Office Manager/Supervisor for the next
five years. During this time, he continued with his education and in
1985, he was employed by the VA Hospital in Sturgis as an Admissions
Clerk. Gary graduated from BHSC in May 1989 with a degree in Industrial
Technology and again in 1993 with a degree in Education. Gary taught
secondary and middle school for eight years and retired in 2001. He
is a life member of the Retired Enlisted Association, a life member
of the American Legion as well as a life member of the Disabled American
Veterans. He currently serves as Secretary for TREA and has been Sergeant-At-Arms
for two years, Parliamentarian for two years and Secretary for one year.
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