Page 63 - Senior Link Magazine Fall 2025 - Online Magazine

air FOrCe | Okinawa, COld war

also in full swing. The Bering Strait separating the Just two years ago, after a movie with some friends, he
Alaska coast from the Soviet Union was only 55 miles visited with one of the gals. While everyone else left,
wide, so it was common for Russian bombers to fly Vicki stayed and talked with Glenn for over an hour.
near the base to “look for weaknesses.” (By way of They married in 2023.
comparison, the Soviet Union is closer to Alaska than
Lubbock is to Lamesa.) Russian pilots would be met by Despite the challenges and sacrifices, one of Glenn’s
American F-15 interceptors who would hail them over cherished benefits of his service is the unwritten code,
the jet’s intercom with the warning, “Turn around or be “Veterans watch each other’s backs.” No doubt, most
splashed!” Soviet pilots knew they couldn’t survive a soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines agree and can
rescue from the 38-degree freezing waters. think of instances in their own lives when the code was
substantiated. When Glenn notices a vet wearing a hat,
The constant threat of war took its toll not only on he’ll often comment, “That hat looks kind of empty.” He
the country, but also on Glenn’s family. His marriage will then present a special pin with an American flag
ended after 19 years. Glenn reflects, “Service is hard on and a cross. Glenn learned this tradition from Welby
families as well as on the veterans who serve.” Smith, an Air Force Crew Chief, who often visited
Glenn and Lou, along with Katherine, the Gentiva
Soon after, Glenn married Louella (Lou), who taught Hospice Coordinator. After Lou passed, Welby invited
him square dancing as well as many other things he Glenn to volunteer with Gentiva Hospice, an outreach
would never have tried if he hadn’t married her. Lou Glenn steadfastly continues now with Vicki by his side.
went to be with the Lord after giving Glenn 30 years of He embodies the unwritten code—a veteran caring for
“heaven on earth.”
veterans.

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Lubbock Senior Link 63