Tom Gammon
U.S. Air Force 1974 – 2002
Tom Gammon followed his family tradition by joining the U.S. Air Force via ROTC at the University of Florida. After commissioning as a second lieutenant, he was assigned as a personnel administrative officer. Gammon served at Fortuna Air Force Station, North Dakota, a critical early-warning radar installation during the Cold War. Later stationed at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, Gammon specialized in personnel management, overseeing thousands of military personnel. His career included diverse roles, from base administration to personnel policy implementation. Gammon’s assignments progressively developed his leadership skills, notably valuing respect and empathy for his airmen. After retiring, Gammon dedicated over three decades to education and currently works at the Miami Military Museum, where he leads community and youth outreach programs.
Full Interview
Interview Summary
Access the complete transcript here
Introduction (0:47 – 1:20)
Military Childhood and Education (1:20 – 7:40)
Joining ROTC and the Vietnam Era Campus Climate (7:40 – 9:50)
Early Air Force Assignments and Life in North Dakota (9:50 – 15:56)
Langley Air Force Base and Personnel Leadership (15:56 – 23:58)
Reserve Career, 9/11 Recall, and War Planning (23:58 – 39:54)
Teamwork, Adaptability, and Military Culture (39:54 – 46:59)
Post-Military Life and Community Service at the Museum (46:59 – 59:09)
