Edwin Rodriguez
U.S. Air Force, 1971 – 1997
Edwin Rodriguez was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1952. Seeking direction, he enlisted in the Air Force in 1971, becoming a cook, serving in Vietnam and later retraining in military contracting. Edwin served 26 years, including postings in South Dakota, Okinawa, the Netherlands, Germany, and Spain. Retiring in 1997, he continued his contracting career with the State of Florida and the City of Tallahassee, where he retired as purchasing supervisor. Edwin remains engaged in volunteer work and resides in Tallahassee, surrounded by his family.
Full Interview
Interview Summary
Access the complete transcript here
Introduction (00:50 – 01:20)
Message for future generations (38:32 – 43:34)
Background and family (01:20 – 03:31)
Enlisting in the Air Force (3:31 – 05:27)
Initial Entry Training, food service, and adjusting to military life (05:27 – 09:40)
Experiences in Vietnam (09:40 – 13:57)
Duty stations in food services, retraining to contracting and overseas experiences (13:57 – 20:37)
Friendships and family life (20:37 – 27:57)
Contracting in the Air Force and transitioning to civilian career (27:57 – 33:02)
Post-military service and volunteer work (33:02 – 38:32)
