by Senior Airman Matthew Benedetti, Public Affairs
104th Fighter Wing
4/10/2010 - Barnes Air National Guard Base, 104 Fighter Wing - Westfield, Mass -- Senior Airman Travis Miller joined the Air Force later in life than most of his colleagues in the Medals Technology shop here at the 104th. Being a 29 year old enlistee is never easy. However, he had always been keenly aware of a family military legacy that influenced his decision.
Miller's grandfather was Tech. Sgt. Charlie Samson, a Tail Gunner on a B-24 during World War II. A veteran of several dangerous missions, including the raid on the Ploesti oilfields in Romania in 1943.He served as a guardsman at the 104th from 1956 to 1977.
As a Metals Technology Craftsman, his duties include the manufacture and repair of equipment metal parts using conventional machining and welding methods. Miller enjoys his work, "The opportunity to complete so many different types of aircraft repairs and supporting other shops allows the F-15 to be ready when called upon. I get to meet unit members throughout the various squadrons on base."
