Edward "Ed" Gifford
U.S. Army, 1978 – 2006, 2009 – 2011
Ed Gifford was born on October 30, 1954, in France, into an Air Force family, and grew up primarily in Akron, Ohio. Inspired by military-oriented television shows and driven by a desire for excitement, Ed pursued ROTC at the University of Akron, transitioning from Air Force to Army ROTC after his vision precluded a flying career. He commissioned as an Infantry officer in the late 1970s, beginning an extensive military journey marked by rigorous training, including Ranger and Airborne schools. Throughout his military career, Ed served notably with the 101st Airborne at Fort Campbell, and in Germany during the height of the Cold War, where he managed critical logistical operations like REFORGER. Ed's leadership style, emphasizing trust and delegation, evolved significantly during these assignments. Afterward, he served at Fort Bragg, further refining his skills in training and operations management. Post-active duty, Ed faced challenges transitioning to civilian life but remained connected to military service through the Army Reserve, where he continued teaching and eventually deployed twice to the Middle East in critical logistical and operational roles, including supporting withdrawal efforts in Iraq and buildup in Afghanistan. Today, Ed lives in Monticello, Florida, where he remains actively involved in veteran advocacy and community initiatives.
Full Interview
Interview Summary
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Introduction (00:47 – 01:20)
Early Life and Family Background (01:20 – 02:40)
College, ROTC, and Commissioning (02:40 – 07:23)
Initial Training and Ranger School (07:23 – 12:43)
First Assignment – Fort Campbell and Platoon Leadership (12:43 – 22:20)
Cold War Atmosphere in Germany (22:20 – 26:47)
Leadership Evolution and Transition to Staff Roles (26:47 – 39:25)
82nd Airborne, Training Shifts, and Cold War Reflections (39:25 – 48:23)
Reserve Transition and Reentry to Paid Service (48:23 – 1:01:06)
Civilian Work Crown Cork & Seal and Deployments (1:01:06 – 1:07:01)
Logistical Challenges in Afghanistan (1:07:01 – 1:18:50)
Center for Army Lessons Learned (CALL) and Interview Work (1:18:50 – 1:36:09)
Veterans’ Advocacy and Post Commander Work (1:36:09 – 1:44:30)
Commemorating Boots Thomas and Community Memory (1:44:30 – 1:53:52)
Closing Reflections and Message for Future Generations (1:53:52 – 1:59:22)
