SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Approximately 60 former members who previously served with the 335th Tactical Fighter Squadron, along with their families, visited their old stomping ground for a reunion tour, April 1, 2016.
The former Chiefs all served with the 335th TFS, now the 335th Fighter Squadron, between 1972 and 1975.
During their visit, attendees toured the 335th FS, traveled to the flightline for a close-up view of an F-15E Strike Eagle and compared the squadron’s current fleet to the aircraft they flew in the Vietnam War, the F-4 Phantom.
The squadron’s guests held several accomplished individuals in their ranks. A handful of generals, former commanders, Thunderbirds, an astronaut, a Vietnam War ace and several former prisoners of war all came together for the event.
“This has been unbelievable,” said Pete Stockslager, former member of the 335th TFS, about the reunion tour. “If you talk to any of those guys, they’re on cloud nine. I got up for breakfast yesterday morning, went down to the [hotel], and the place sounded like a riot. There were only about 12 people in there – all day. I went to dinner, came back, and they were still telling stories in there at 11 at night.”
The squadron’s guests all agreed that some things have definitely changed over the years, but there are some things that will never change.
“It’s great to see them all,” said retired Brig. Gen. William Tolbert, former 335th TFS commander, referring to the Airmen serving in the squadron today. “They’re so young and vibrant. They love their country, which, I think is something you have to have in your persona. I see it in all these young guys. Time has changed. We have different equipment and airplanes, but in many ways it hasn’t changed since I served. They’re the same folks, and they’re dedicated to their country.”
Current members of the 335th FS said they were also excited to hear about the experiences of their predecessors.
“It was an honor and a pleasure to host the 335th TFS reunion,” said Capt. Joshua Haswell 335th FS executive officer. “The amount of sacrifice and bravery they showed in their time makes me proud to represent the Chiefs today. From dropping bombs to shooting down MiGs, these gentlemen did it all. We train today to continue the fight for freedom and wait for our nation’s call, hoping and praying we can live up to the legends of our past. Meeting such role models face-to-face and shaking their hands will always be with me, and I thank them and my leadership for allowing me the opportunity.”