INTERVIEWS WITH USAFA Class of 1959

In this rare interview, Brigadier General James M. Rhodes, Jr., USAFA Class of 1959, speaks candidly with his grandson about Vietnam, combat missions, leadership, and the lasting weight of service. His reflections offer a powerful window into the lived experience behind one of America’s most complex wars.

From Shanghai dining rooms to the Great Wall, from remote villages to the Hong Kong–Beijing Auto Rally, Colonel James Reed USAFA ’59 offers a vivid, humorous, and deeply human account of China during its pivotal years of opening to the world.

In this powerful memoir, General Dick Carr revisits Cambodia’s turbulent past and its enduring spirit. From river communities to the haunting legacy of the Khmer Rouge, he offers a clear, compassionate look at a nation rebuilding itself across generations.

Major General Dick Carr, USAFA ’59, shares a powerful “then‑and‑now” account of Vietnam—from his early days as a young pilot in 1963 to his return more than forty years later. His reflections reveal a nation transformed, yet still marked by echoes of the past.

Retired four‑star General Robert C. Oaks reflects on his 35 years of service—from the early days of the Air Force Academy to commanding USAFE—in this moving tribute and interview transcript.

From the "sleepy command" of 1990 to the biggest airlift in history, General HT Johnson’s leadership was the pivot point for Operation Desert Shield. Explore the "behind the scenes" wisdom of the first USAFA graduate to reach four-star rank.

General H.T. Johnson didn’t just follow a path; he defined the standard. Explore the memoir of the first 4-star graduate, a man who served as the vanguard for the Class of '59.

"Fighter pilot is a state of mind, not a job title." Colonel RL Penn reflects on the earned confidence of the cockpit, the peril of North Vietnam, and the sheer joy of a rainy formation landing in Spain.

From flying 128 combat missions in Vietnam to reclaiming his place in the sky at age 83, Paul S. Lasen (Class of 1959) exemplifies the spirit of the Academy’s pioneers. Read about his historic flight with the Thunderbirds and his journey as the oldest living graduate of the Long Blue Line.

On July 11, 1955, Col. Max Miller stepped into history as one of USAFA’s first cadets. Seventy years later, he’s still serving, mentoring, and inspiring.

Major General Hank Canterbury shares his Air Force Aviation career and how he qualified as the overall top aviator graduate of the USAFA.

Major General Henry Canterbury soared from USAFA graduate to Thunderbird pilot, flying over 230 airshows and 286 combat missions—shaping Air Force legacy with precision and daring.