A Leader

For most of my career in the Air Force I was involved in intelligence operations. One of our legendary leaders was Major General Doyle E. Larson. When I was assigned to a unit on Kadena AB in Okinawa, Japan, Maj Gen Larson commanded the Electronic Security Command. I also worked at the 316th Training Squadron when his daughter, Major Nancy Larson, was an Operations Officer of our unit. With his passing, a former commander of mine sent a message to all in the Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Agency:

"To All The Men and Women of the Air Force ISR Agency

I have some very sad news to pass along. This morning we received word that Maj Gen Doyle Larson (Ret) passed away peacefully last night at around 1800. Our hearts go out to the Larson family and please keep Gen Larson and his family in your thoughts. I know you fully appreciate what Gen Larson meant to this agency and the entire Air Force as an institution and profession. I am glad we were able to have the special dedication ceremony in his honor a couple of weeks ago. I talked to him after he had a chance to review the recording of the ceremony. He wanted all of you to know that he was humbled by the recognition and very appreciative of the thoughts and prayers.I will represent the United States Air Force at his funeral. Pause and think about Gen Larson and his remarkable work in setting the stage for what ISR has developed into today and where it is heading in the future----a great leader, a great mentor, a great Airman."

Maj Gen Craig Koziol Commander,
Air Force ISR Agency

Rest In Peace, DEL

Aloha, Joe