Title: Fighter Pilot
Company: United States Air Force
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
Harold R. Alston, a retired lieutenant colonel in the United States Air Force, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Military for dedication, achievements, and leadership in military aviation.
Mr. Alston is a distinguished fighter pilot who dedicated 28 years of his career to the United States Air Force. He enlisted in the United States Air National Guard at the age of 18 to avoid being drafted into another branch of service during the Vietnam War. After successfully passing the examinations and attending flight school, Mr. Alston began his career as a military pilot, flying various models of aircraft during his tenure, including the F-104 Starfighter. He subsequently completed coursework at the University of Utah and pursued advanced training at the Air Force Command and Staff College, the Canadian Forces Staff College, and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces.
Mr. Alston’s combat tours during the Vietnam War, where he flew 136 missions including 100 over northern Vietnam, were the highlight of his career. Despite numerous close encounters, he was never shot down and received awards such as the Distinguished Flying Cross and 12 Combat Air Medals. Mr. Alston’s experience also includes serving as a maintenance test pilot, flying with three other air forces, and receiving wings from the Canadian, German, and Saudi Arabian forces. He retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1981 but continued to make significant contributions as an author. Mr. Alston wrote the book “Why Do I Find Myself in These Situations?,” published by Christian Faith Publishing, Inc., in 2021.
Throughout his career, Mr. Alston has experienced the rewarding aspects of being a fighter pilot and the joy of flying a variety of different aircraft. He has witnessed changes in the field over time and believes that adaptability and a thirst for exploration are vital for success. He considers his brother-in-law, Larry Killpack, and his father, Ray, as the mentors who most greatly influenced his life and career. Mr. Alston’s commitment to his career and his family is evident in his perseverance and dedication, as he values the lessons he learned as a professional pilot, including the importance of confidence and bravery in pursuing one’s desires.
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