LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — A former U.S. Marine who once piloted the president’s helicopter shared stories of his military service during the Allen County Republican Party’s November luncheon.
Don Klingler enlisted in the Marine Corps in the 1950s, originally planning to serve two years of active duty and four years in the reserves. Instead, his service extended to 30 years. During his career, Klingler trained as a meteorologist and helicopter pilot, flew in Vietnam, and later served four years as a pilot of Marine One, flying Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon.
During his career, Klingler trained as a meteorologist and helicopter pilot, flew in Vietnam, and later served four years as a pilot of Marine One.
“Well, it's a heavy responsibility. At least I felt so and of course, they wouldn't let us carry a gun like we did in Vietnam. But I always felt that maybe if things went wrong, it would be nice to have one and save a big investigation. (laughs) But no, it was. It was a great, great honor and great responsibility to have a job like that,” says Don Klingler, Marine Veterans, Former Pilot of Marine 1.
Klingler said he hopes people understand that freedom requires sacrifice and the dedication of many.
