Robert A. (Bob) Van Veghel

Memorial Location

COLUMN: 5    ROW: 16

  • Master Sergeant
  • Served: July 1966 – September 1987
  • Vietnam War
  • Weather Forecaster
  • Awarded Meritorious Service Medal, Army & Air Force Commendation Medal

I truly enjoyed my Air Force experience and being a weather forecaster was one of the most enjoyable jobs that I have ever had.  Although I was in the Air Force, I did spend nine years attached to the army in Germany (Bad Toelz Army airfield with the 1st Armored Division) where I provided weather support.

Other assignments were Laredo Air Force Base, Texas, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, Scott Air Force Base, Illinois.  AT Offutt AFB I worked for the European forecast section providing short term and long range forecasts for our forces in Europe.

At Ansbach Army Air Field, the other forecaster (TSgt Bill Elliott) and I set numerous records for forecast excellence.  In addition, I provided daily weather forecasts to the local military school.

While in Germany, I learned the language and one of my additional duties was listed as a translator for the Air Force.

From my military career, I learned to appreciate the camaraderie that comes with that service.  So after my military service, I went to work for the Department of Defense from which I retired after working there for 25 years.

 

Nephew of George, Donald, Jerome, John J, and William Van Veghel. Cousin of John S. VanVeghel. 

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