A Memoire

By: Col. Robert W. Reeves, USAF (Ret.)

Bob Reeves was born in Spokane, WA, December 12, 1929. His parents moved to Portland OR in 1936, and he attended elementary and and graduated high school there. He then attended Oregon State College and graduated with a B.S. Degree in Agriculture in 1952. He was then commissioned in the USAF and entered active duty in August ofb that year. Ho completed pilot training in December, 1953. He is a Command Pilot and served in both the, Korean and Vietnam conflicts. Bob commanded the 14th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron in SEA, was Deputy Commander for Operations and Training at Tyndall AFB, and was Deputy Commander for Operations, 23d NORAD Region at Duluth, MN, a joint U.S. and Canadian command where he retired in April, 1977. He and Nancy then returned to Panama City where they built a home in Parker, a suburb.

Bob was employed by Sowell Aviation Company and served in many line and managerial positions over the next 12 years. He taught instrument and ATP, initiated a seaplane course, worked in sales and finally taught the ATP Ground school.

After full retirement, Bob got into civic service jobs. He worked three years for Catholic Services three days a week trucking in donations and selling in the warehouse on Saturdays. He then volunteered at the Tyndall AFB pharmacy and worked there for six years.

Bob was a member of Rotary and served as club president twice, was a District Governor for a one year term and was active both at district and zone levels. He was also a member of the Daedalians and served as Flight Captain for two years.

After 43 years in the house in Parker, they sold the house and bought a condo, Harbour Village, at St. Andrews in Panama city.