06/05/2026
For Dennis Carper, military service began during one of the most tense moments in American history. Fresh out of high school in Omaha, Nebraska, Dennis watched the Cuban Missile Crisis unfold in 1962 and decided it was time to serve his country.
Although he enlisted with plans to work in electronics, the United States Air Force had other ideas. Dennis was assigned to plumbing, a career field he had experience in but, initially questioned. Looking back more than 60 years later, he laughs about the experience.
“One night I called my dad and told him, ‘They’re going to make me a plumber.’ He said, ‘So what? Just be the best damn plumber and go to work.’”
That advice would shape the rest of his life.
After completing basic training at Lackland Air Force Base and plumbing school in Texas, Dennis was stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. During his four years of active duty, he worked throughout the base, supporting housing areas, aircraft facilities, missile sites, and critical infrastructure during the early years of the Cold War.
Dennis credits the Air Force with teaching him discipline, responsibility, and self-reliance.
“The military makes you grow up quick,” he said. “You learn to be self-sufficient and more particular about what you do. I’m 82 years old and I still make my bed every morning.”
When his enlistment ended in 1966, Dennis returned home and began a career at Western Electric. What started as a plumbing job became a 38-year career, where he later advanced to pipefitter. Along the way, he met his wife, raised four children, and built a life founded on the lessons he learned in uniform.
Today, Dennis remains proud of his service and grateful for the opportunities it provided. He also carries a deep appreciation for fellow Veterans, especially those who served during difficult periods of our nation’s history.
“My definition of a Veteran is someone who has pride. I’m proud that I served in the Air Force. I had no regrets.”
Thank you, Dennis, for your service to our nation and for sharing your story. 🇺🇸