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Russell Mills Lt. Col USAF

Russell Gerow Mills of Reno Nevada served in the Nevada Air National Guard as a P-51 Mustang mechanic and crew chief before joining the United States Air Force. He earned his pilot wings and officers commission in 1953 and was assigned to the 40th Fighter Interceptor Squadron. He later served in Japan, Italy, Spain and Air Force bases in the United States.

During his career, Russ flew the F-80, F-86F, F-86D and the F-100A Sabre fighter (94th Fighter Squadron) in addition to other Air Force aircraft. During a brief stint he flew the North American T-39 Sabreliner in which he shuttled U.S. Sen. Barry Goldwater.

On October 13, 1957 the then 1st Lt. Russell Mills was scrambled to an aerial assist when a T-33 pilot became unconscious in flight. He then aided in instructing the rear seat (untrained) aircraft observer in the single engine jet back to Yokota Air Base in full darkness to a safe landing. For this Russ was awarded the USAF's Distinguished Flying Cross.

In 1967 the USAF gave Russ the opportunity to fly helicopters. After training at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida he was sent to Vietnam. There he flew with the 37th ARRS Air Rescue Squadron, "Jolly Green Giants," piloting the Sikorsky HH-3E helicopter at DaNang.

During a non-rescue start-up, (on the flight line,) the HH-3E caught fire somewhere near the top forward section of the turbine. This cause the rotors to wash flames into the upper portion of the cockpit. immediately the co-pilot evacuate the aircraft. Due to the danger of a fully started Aircraft Lt. Col. Russell Mills had the fortitude to remain till all systems were shut down. He was the last to leave the burning aircraft. Because of this he received 1st. 2nd. and 3rd. degree burns and was sent to convalesce on a hospital ship for three months. After which Lt. Col. Russell Mills was sent back to DaNang for active duty.