World War II Women Air Force Service Pilot (WASP) – ‘Lib’ Erickson. by David Waggoner

“Dave tells the story of Women Airforce Service Pilot (WASP) Elizabeth “Jayne” Erickson from Issaquah, Washington who started flight training in January 1944 and her journey through the program. During his presentation, he will also provide a history of the WASP program and the qualifications and trainings required to join.”

SPEAKER BIO–“Dave is a 1967 Pacific Lutheran University graduate. He is also a graduate of the U.S. Army Command & Staff College and the U.S. Army Logistical Executive Course. For 26 years, Dave served active duty in the U.S. Army until retiring in 1993, reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He served in combat from 1969 to 1970 during the Viet Nam War where he flew in 125 combat air-insertions. He was awarded the Air Medal and received a Purple Heart for his wounds that he received in combat. He also wears a Combat Infantrymen’s Badge. Dave retired from King County Metro Transit as a transit operator in April 2015. He drove buses, even during his Army career, for over 53 years.

David served five two-year terms on the King County Veterans Advisory Board where he held the office of Sergeant-at-Arms. He has been a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars for 28 years and has served as Commander, Senior Vice Commander, Junior Vice Commander, and Quartermaster of Post #3436 in Issaquah. He is currently the Service Officer of VFW Post #3436, and serves as Service Officer in the American Legion, Renton-Pickering Post #79. He also holds the office of Secretary for Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #102. He is a Life Member of all three Veterans Service Organizations. He has been volunteering as a Museum Docent since 2016.”