In this episode, Air Force veteran and retired Wisconsin State Patrol Division Administrator Ronald “Ron” Kuhn shares his experiences serving as a Security Policeman at Pleiku Air Base from 1965 to 1966. Arriving in the early stages of the Vietnam War, Kuhn describes primitive conditions—sleeping in converted warehouses without electricity or running water—and defending the air base perimeter in absolute darkness.

Kuhn details intense night actions on the perimeter, capturing 12 infiltrators trying to breach the wire, using tracer rounds to direct fire onto enemy positions, and the tragic lingering memory of befriending a missionary family murdered nearby. He also reflects on his 29-year post-war career as a Wisconsin State Trooper, applying his military leadership during high-stakes civilian events like anti-war protests at the state capital and a major prison riot.

Key Topics Covered:

• Early Air Force Security Police deployment to Pleiku Air Base (1965–1966)

• Primitive living conditions in converted warehouses and Tent City

• Perimeter defense tactics, night combat, and capturing enemy infiltrators

• Using tracer-loaded magazines and flares for night target identification

• Transition to civilian life and a 29-year career in the Wisconsin State Patrol

• Managing civil unrest and de-escalating a major prison riot using military leadership principles