Jack E. Spicer entered the Air Force from Sanger, California in April 1955 and completed Basic Training at Parks AFB. He was sent first to Keesler AFB, Mississippi for Technical Training then to Ladd AFB, Alaska where he served as a radio technician and to Cape Prince of Wales, Alaska where his skills as a diesel electric generator technician were put to use. He found later assignments at Stewart AFB, New York as an electric switchgear operator and Sheppard AFB, Texas as a technical instructor.
While at Stewart AFB, New York, Jack met Frances (at the base theater) and shortly afterwards they married. In April 1962, SSGT Jack Spicer received orders to report to Lackland AFB, Texas to attend class 63A, Officer Candidate School and he, Frances and their first (and only) child were on their way.
After graduation from OCS in September 1962, Jack was assigned to Lowry AFB, Colorado to attend the Avionics Officer course. Subsequent assignments included: Hamilton AFB, California as OIC, Weapons Loading team ADC fighters and OIC, Avionics Repair; Stewart AFB, New York as NAF Avionics Officer, 1st AF HQ; Cam Rahn Bay AFB, Vietnam (1966-67) as Assistant Maintenance Supervisor, Avionics Officer Fighter; Ramstein AFB, Germany, 17th AFHQ as NAF Avionics Officer (1969-73); and Nellis AFB, Nevada as Maintenance Supervisor, 57 Avionics Sq, 57TT Wg.
Jack decided to retire on June 1, 1975 as Major. During his 20 years service he completed two years of College and the Squadron Officers School. He earned the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal and two Air Force Commendation Medals.
After retirement, Jack attended the University of Nevada, (1977-1981) in Las Vegas, Nevada completing his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree. While there he found employment as an English teaching assistant.
Later (1981) he worked for the Catholic Community Services as a refugee resettlement administrator and from 1981 -1998 he was employed by the Clark County School District as a secondary English Teacher and Indian Education Administrator. He retired in 1998 and he and Frances call Las Vegas, Nevada home.