- January 29, 2025
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After Training in Avionics Instrumentation Tech, April was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force in Anchorage, Alaska, where he supported avionics for T-33, B57, F-102, C-117, C-54, and others including C-123b Model and C-123 conversions to Ranch Hand tanker/sprayers.
April worked tirelessly readying and repairing aircraft and equipment after the 1964 earthquake. After transfer to the 89th Airlift Wing, Andrews AFB, in Maryland, April was tasked with support for VIP aircraft including Air Force One.
During his time at Chambley-Bussières Air Base in France, April supported the B-66. At Wiesbaden Air Base in Germany he flew air surveillance over Berlin. There was a very narrow air corridor to West Berlin over East Germany through Soviet air space. Navigation had to be very precise.
After supporting C-141 and C-124 aircraft at Kelly AFB in San Antonino and C-133A, C-5A and C-141 at Dover AFB, April rejoined civilian life, still working for Uncle Sam doing quality assurance for the Advanced Logistics Agency, then to Buchnell Corp. and General Electric in Alachua County, Florida, and Aero Corp. and Northrop Grumman also in Florida where April was an instructor in nondestructive quality assurance.
After retirement, April volunteered for several organizations including BPOE, Social Club of Palm Coast and treasurer for a local Disabled American Veterans chapter.
