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Wall of Honor Level:
Air and Space Friend

Honored by:
Mrs. Sue L. Sampson

CDR Sampson joined the U.S.Navy through a Naval Aviation Cadet program in 1961. The program was designed to provide Aviators for the Navy and Marine Corp due to the shortage following the Korean War. The Cadets filled the shortage through this innovative program with personnel who met the requirements developed by the U. S. Navy. The program was designed as a Year and Half of heavy ground school (extensive math and science, meteorology, physics and physical training), and specific aircraft training during each phase of training. Following advanced training and carrier qualification certification with completion of the program and graduation, the Cadet was designated as an Ensign in the U.S.Navy. CDR Sampson joined VF-124; an F8 Crusader training command, in San Diego, California in March of 1963 in preparation to join the VU-7 operational squadron in San Diego. Following 1 ½ years CDR Sampson requested and received a “split Operational Tour” and joined VFP-63 Photographic Squadron for an additional 2 1/2 years operating with the Pacific Ocean fleet deployed to Vietnam from 1966 through 1969. Following a two (2) year “shore Duty” in Monterey, California was a deployment to a Fleet Fighter Squadron (VF-151) as a Fighter Pilot until 1974. Vietnam was winding down and shore duty was 1974 through 1975 and joined VF-21 in San Diego. CDR Sampson was deployed during Vietnam for four (4) cruises and received the “Distinguished Cross, 23 Air Medals, 4 Navy Achievement Medals, and numerous Navy Unit Commendations and campaign ribbons. CDR Sampson completed a 20 year career as a Department Head onboard the USS Ranger, CVA 61 as the Weapons Officer.
Following a Short career where flying aircraft with many different aircraft and with many different squadrons provided the expertise to be employed as an Astronaut Training Manager in 1981 working for Ford Aerospace in Houston, Texas. CDR Sampson worked with Astronauts for Shuttle Flights 5, 9 and 13 until 1987 before joining Singer Link as a Program Manager providing Simulators for the U.S. Military.