10/15/2026
⭐️ Flight #38 Veteran Joe R. Rodriguez 🇺🇸
U.S. Army | Specialist Four (SP4) | Vietnam Veteran
Service Dates: June 1971 – June 1974
Vietnam Service: January 1972 – January 1973
At just 19 years old, following his high school graduation, Joe R. Rodriguez made the decision to volunteer to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. That decision marked the beginning of a journey defined by dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to duty.
Joe completed his Basic Training at Fort Lewis, Washington, before attending Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Lee, Virginia. He trained as a 76P Army Stock Control and Supply man, a role that required organization, precision, and responsibility. During his training, Joe learned to operate his first computer, an NCR 500. Little did he know that this early experience would help shape his future career. More than 50 years later, he would retire after a career that continued to involve managing computers—a remarkable connection between his military training and his professional life.
In December 1971, Joe received his orders for Vietnam. He arrived in January 1972 and was stationed at Phu Bai, where he was assigned to the 8th Radio Research Field Station. On March 30, 1972, the North Vietnamese Army launched its major spring offensive, known as the Easter Offensive. As the conflict intensified, a portion of Joe's unit was relocated to Camp Holloway in Pleiku, where he continued his military service during a pivotal period of the Vietnam War.
After completing his tour in Vietnam in January 1973, Joe returned to the United States and served the remainder of his enlistment at Fort Lewis, Washington. He honorably completed his three years of Army service in June 1974.
Joe's dedication and service were recognized through numerous military decorations and awards, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation Badge, the Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal, First Class Unit Citation Badge, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Marksman Qualification Badge with R***e Bar, and the National Defense Service Medal.
Joe's story is one of answering the call to serve at a young age, carrying out his responsibilities during a chapter in our nation's history, and bringing the skills he learned in the Army into his civilian career. His service reflects the dedication of a generation of Americans who put their country before themselves.
This weekend, we honor Specialist Four Joe R. Rodriguez—not only for his service in the United States Army and his time in Vietnam, but also for his dedication, perseverance, and the example he sets as a veteran who answered his country's call.
Thank you for your service and welcome to Flight #38! ✈️
