Harry Hillus Culler

MAJOR HARRY HILLUS CULLER, JR.
U.S. Air Force Academy, Class of 1959, Cadet Squadron 01

Harry Hillus Culler, Jr., known affectionately as "Tex" to his classmates, was a member of the historic first graduating class of the United States Air Force Academy. Born in San Antonio, Texas, Harry brought a quiet dedication and a deep-seated pride in his Texan roots to the fledgling Academy at Lowry Air Force Base in 1955. As a member of Cadet Squadron 01, he was part of the "vanguard" that transitioned the Wing to the permanent site in Colorado Springs, helping to establish the traditions and rigors that would define the institution for decades to come.

MILITARY SERVICE AND WINGS OF GOLD
Following graduation in June 1959, Harry entered Pilot Training, earning his silver wings at Moore Air Base and Craig Air Force Base in 1960. His early career was defined by the cockpit of the Air Force's heavy bombers. He served as a pilot with the 307th Bomb Wing at Lincoln Air Force Base before moving to the 367th Bomb Squadron at McCoy Air Force Base. During the height of the Cold War, he stood alert, contributing to the nation's strategic deterrence mission.

In 1966, Harry transitioned from the cockpit to the classroom, pursuing post-graduate studies at Texas A&M University. This academic foundation would serve him well in his later roles as a Project Officer and educator.

VIETNAM AND BEYOND
At the height of the Vietnam War, Major Culler deployed to Southeast Asia. From 1968 to 1969, he served in Flight Operations for the 7th Air Force at Tan Son Nhut Air Base, South Vietnam. His role in the busy operational hub of Tan Son Nhut was critical to the management of air assets across the theater.

Returning to the United States, Harry’s technical expertise led him to the Space and Missile Systems Organization (SAMSO) at Norton Air Force Base. As a Project Officer, he worked on the cutting edge of missile technology, contributing to the development of systems that would safeguard the nation through the 1970s and 80s.
LEGACY OF EDUCATION
After retiring from active duty, Harry transitioned into a second career in academia, sharing his leadership and technical knowledge with the next generation. He became a respected educator in Southern California, teaching at Adelphi College, the University of Redlands, and the Metropolitan Tech Institute. His transition to teaching reflected the same commitment to excellence he had shown as a cadet and officer.

Harry Hillus Culler passed away on February 14, 1993. He is remembered by his classmates of '59 as a dedicated officer, a lifelong learner, and a proud member of the "First Class."

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SERVICE ASSIGNMENTS
Years Duty / Role Location
1955–1959 Cadet, Cadet Squadron 01 USAFA (Lowry / Colorado Springs)
1959–1960 Pilot Training Moore AB / Craig AFB
1960–1961 Pilot McConnell AFB
1961–1963 Pilot, 307th Bomb Wing Lincoln AFB
1963–1966 Pilot, 367th Bomb Squadron McCoy AFB
1966–1968 Post-graduate Studies Texas A&M University
1968–1969 Pilot, 7th AF Flight Operations Tan Son Nhut, South Vietnam
1969–1975 Project Officer, SAMSO Norton AFB
1984 Instructor Adelphi College, San Bernardino
1986 Professor University of Redlands, CA
1989 Educator Metropolitan Tech Institute, CA