Name:Harry G. Bayne, USAF, Lt/Col (Retired)
Graduation Year: 1963
High School: Bellevue High
In what branch(es) of the military did you serve? United States Air Force
Military Years of Service: 24 1/2 years
War Service: I served during the Vietnam War and all conflicts

How did your experiences as a student prepare you for your military career?
I was a very good student. I always wanted to excel in my studies. Consequently, I spent whatever time I needed to in order to learn and get the best grades possible. When I went to college, I picked The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, which has been the No. 1 academic college in the Southeast for decades. While there, I took 22 hours a semester for either straight semesters. I graduated with enough credits to satisfy two different majors, Political Science and History. My grade point average for four years of college was 3.87 on a true 4.0 system. I received a B.A. Decree, Magna Cum Laude. This qualified me for a full scholarship to SMU Law School in Dallas, Texas, where I graduates with a Juris doctorate. I carried these credentials into my military career where hard work paid off. As a young lawyer, I tried many court martials during Vietnam with great success. This led to many opportunities as a Staff Judge Advocate. Before I retired from the military, I served as the Senior Staff Advocate at Carswell AFB, Texas for several years where I supervised all JAG Officers in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex.

What advice would you give current students and/or fellow alumni who are considering a career in the military?
It made a huge difference in my life. Even though I was born into a military family (my father was a career officer), my military schooling and training was the best thing that ever happened to me. It made me the man I am today. I would recommend to every young person that they should consider serving their country for a period of time and if it is a fit for them to make it a career. In either case, they will be happy they did and proud of their service.

Any other words of wisdom or stories you'd like to share?
In the immortal words of John F. Kennedy, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your Country. Freedom is not free.