MacDill AFB, (SAC) Tampa ,Florida-Nov '60-Feb '62

Our First Car - 1949 Ford
(Traveled from Dallas, TX to MacDill AFB, Tampa FL.)

The Cuban Bay of Pigs invasion, Air Force along with all branches sent forces to Key West. During inspection of the troops it was discovered the Air Force had many types of hats, fatigues and etc., unlike the other services. As a result a "DRESS" Fatigue was developed by USAF. Some of you may remember the blue scarf, bloused boots, blue name tags and butt can crushed hats.

Because communism was only ninety miles from American shores, MacDill became home to a new joint service command known as STRIKE COMMAND. My somewhat lazy NCOIC was reassigned to STRIKE and working mostly for the Army. Roll Call, Exercising, etc...... didn't set to well.

The "RED" tide rolled in from Tampa Bay, killing fish, seaweed and etc. The smell was terrible, I was extremely fortunate to be selected for the bucket brigade. Walking on the mess spreading lime as I went.

Even though I was not an airplane person, The B47s on base was a beautiful aircraft. I would be with this airplane for my first three assignments. It still ranks high on my list of airplanes.