Chris Garbow

Chris Garbow was commissioned a 2nd LT, in the US Army upon graduation from Stetson University ROTC in 1966.

After basic training as a Signal Corps officer, he went direct to Rotary Wing training first at Ft Wolters in Mineral Wells, TX then to Ft Rucker in Dothan, AL for final certification in the Army’s UH-1, Huey helicopter.

After flight school, Chris was assigned to the 174th Assault Helicopter Company in Duc Pho, Vietnam (north of Qui Nhon and South of Quang Ngai & Chu Lai on the coast).  He was welcomed to Vietnam by the February 1968 enemy 'Tet Offensive'.  He flew 8-12 hour days everyday for approximately two months before getting his in-country check ride!  After several months flying troop insertions, command and control missions, and resupply operations, commonly referred to as "ash and trash”, Chris was promoted to Battalion Signal Officer for the 14th Combat Aviation Battalion in beautiful Chu Lai, also in I corps right on the beach of the South China Sea. This move no doubt contributed to Chris’s standing in front of you today as his combat missions were significantly reduced now that he was flying a desk. 

Chris was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, and Air Medal for his service.