Ron Hegdahl was born in Minneapolis Minnesota; it was there that he grew to love planes. As a child he was always building model airplanes. Gluing tiny pieces together, painting them, and then going to swap meets and meetings.

Although, his father had joined the Army, he dreamt of joining the Air Force. Graduating from high school at 17, he couldn’t wait to enlist. He attempted to enroll, but was denied for being too young. He said waiting that whole year was “agonizing” but at 18 he officially joined.

Ron said he loved the armed forces. He spent 6 years stationed in Texas and described the experience as fun. He said boot camp was his favorite, because he had never shot a gun before. He also said by the time he enrolled in 1957/58, women were beginning to get involved too, and he thought that was “quite spectacular.”

Ron was an aircraft mechanic. While stationed in Texas he studied and worked on B52’s and B47’s. They were the up and coming aircraft at that time, and everyone was very excited about them as Ron remembers “they were going to be the future!”

After 6 years, Ron left the service, but continued to work for the government in the IRS wage and investment division. He was very proud to serve our country and continue his work in government.

Ron now lives a happy life  at The Arbors where he enjoys socializing with peers, reading books and playing cards.