Jim Hays
I learned a couple of years ago about Steve’s passing, but had no information about it until a mutual friend found Steve’s obituary. I served with Steve while at the B52 Weapons School in Rapid City, South Dakota. We, with a dozen other airmen built the first B52 and bomber division and curriculum in the USAF Weapons School. It was groundbreaking. Steve was a fine officer, aviator and instructor. He was also a good friend. He and I went on a “walk-about” one Saturday night in the Black Hills. We sat down in a clearing to talk and admire the beautiful South Dakota night. That next Monday Steve arrived at work in some discomfort. We apparently sat in a bed of poison ivy and his body was covered with it. I happened to have very little. Despite his significant discomfort, he was in uniform and didn’t miss a beat at the office as we were writing brand new curriculum for the pending inaugural class for the B52 Weapons Course. He was in pain all week, but came to work every day. His commitment to his duties was a remarkable testimony to his drive and excellence, especially in important matters.
God Bless Steve. God Bless his family.
Jim Hays, LtCol, USAF (Retired)