Col. Greg Hall retires from Air Force

Published July 10, 2009
By Brandice J. Armstrong
Tinker Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Col. Greg Hall retired from the Air Force June 26. But, don't expect him to miss Team Tinker or allow base personnel to miss him. The colonel, an individual reservist for the 72nd Mission Support Group since 2005, said retirement is just a formality.

"I plan to come back here until they deny me access," Colonel Hall said. "I am only going to be invited to the fun things - the parties, celebrations and awards events."

Colonel Hall, a staple at Tinker since 1999, entered the Air Force in 1983. Entering as a first lieutenant, he had transferred his commission from the Army National Guard to the Air Force. In 1996, he became an individual reservist or individual mobilization augmentee.

But, his military service runs far deeper than his Air Force and Army careers. In September 1969, the colonel enlisted in the Navy. After serving eight years, the petty officer first class separated to pursue a college education. He attended the University of New Hampshire and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering. In 1979, roughly a year after graduating UNH, the colonel joined the Texas Army National Guard and was commissioned an officer. After five years, he transferred into the blue.

"I felt I could contribute more to my country as an engineer than a tank driver," Colonel Hall said. "And, I have traveled to many, many, many different countries in the Air Force Reserve. So, it gave me the opportunity to travel and use my engineering skills."

When Colonel Hall first entered the Air Force, he said his goal was to make the rank of major and qualify for retirement. But, in his career he achieved so much more.

"I've had the opportunity to make more significant impacts as I progressed through the ranks and also to mold and mentor," the colonel said. "I've really enjoyed the 'M&M' part of the job. I think the Air Force was a good fit for me."

In his most recent position in the 72nd MSG, Colonel Hall was responsible for advising the commander on reserve issues, using reserve members to maximize efficiency and representing the unit at meetings and functions. The colonel said balancing the rapid pace of the mission support group, proved challenging.

"Things move with a velocity of change that's so high," the colonel said. "Things that were on fire two weeks ago aren't even on the radar scope today and it's a whole new set of problems to solve."

But, several Tinker officials said Colonel Hall went above and beyond the call of duty, impressing them in the process.

"Greg has had an amazing career and is a true patriot," said Col. James Eilers, 72nd MSG commander. "He's been my confidant, advisor and friend for the past two years and he's made a huge difference to the lives of the men and women in the mission support group and across the installation."

Col. Jerry Thayer, senior IMA to the 72nd Air Base Wing commander, agreed.

"I'm always amazed when I travel around the base with him at the number of people that he knows and the very obvious good feelings that people have for him as they greet each other and chat," Colonel Thayer said. "I feel very privileged to have been able to work with Colonel Hall and I'm going to miss his concern for people and the mentoring and help that he's given to me as I transitioned into the IMA program."

Colonel Hall said he has no immediate plans for the future. Already retired from civil service, he said he plans to stay fully retired until September.