Carl Schneider

Earlier this year I was saddened to hear that retired U.S. Air Force Major General Carl Schneider had passed away. Over the years I enjoyed several conversations with this Christian man who served his country with distinction for a very long time. So, at this time when we salute our military veterans, I am reaching into the archive for an interview with Gen. Schneider that was recorded a few years ago.

As a Texas farm boy chopping weeds in a cotton field, Carl Schneider dreamed of becoming a fighter pilot and eventually enlisted in the army, becoming a B29 turret mechanic. Learning to fly, he made the transition to jet fighter pilot and flew combat mission in Korea and Vietnam as well as Cold War missions. He then serve many commands before retirement and has received many awards and decorations during his distinguished career. As a fighter pilot, Gen. Schneider knew many fellow pilots who gave their lives in combat on behalf of their country, and once he returned home, he visited the homes and families of many of those killed in action. In later years Gen. Schneider worked on behalf of veterans who have served their country and deserve our respect and help.

Carl Schneider is the author of two books:  A family memoir, Little House on the High Plains, and Jet Pioneer; A Fighter Pilot’s Memoir.

NEXT WEEK:  Max Armstrong, A Tribute to American Farmers