Gene Landers, 1955-1958, NCOIC Training Section

Contributed by granddaughter Keleen Wright

Sun Star Studios - Our Hero Of The Month

We want to spotlight Gene Landers. Gene served in the Army with the 38th division 151st infantry during WW-2. He was awarded two Bronze stars and the Purple Heart during his time in the service. He trained as infantryman and served as a medic. Gene fought in the front lines of the Philippines. The fighting was intense and bloody. He saved many lives during that time.

After the war Gene reenlisted, this time with the Air Force. He served for 20 years with the Air force including the entire Korean war. One of his assignments was the Atomic bomb tests in the Bikini Islands. Gene was the island commander during those tests.

Gene later served at Vandenberg Air Force base and was in charge of small arms training for personnel going to Vietnam. Gene is a true American Hero.