Al Spangler
I first met Don when he was assigned to the 7520th USAF Hospital just outside London. He impressed me as a very top notch Staff Sergeant who stood out among his peers. When I got to know his background having served in the Navy followed by service with the Marine Corps in Korea I could see how that experience influenced his life. Don and I shared a mutual interest in motor racing we became good friends. Along with that mutual interest I was very impressed by Don's leadership qualities. Don had been promoted to Technical Sergeant and NCOIC of the Dental Laboratory. Being a Medical Equipment Repairman I had numerous opportunities to visit his operation. Don was determined to be the best he could be and he worked hard to mentor his staff to become the best that they could be. He was an outstanding leader.
While I did not make a career out of the Air Force I met up with Don again when I was living and working in Los Angeles and he was stationed at Norton AFB in San Bernardino.
While my career would move me from LA to other parts of the country, Don and I stayed in touch and remained lifelong friends. When Don was your friend as many will attest; you would be hard pressed to find a more courageous, loyal and trustworthy friend. I was extremely blessed to have had Don for a friend.
