From helicopter flights to special operations, Lt. Col. Keith W. Morgan has experienced a lot in his 29-year career with the U.S. Air Force. Morgan, adjunct assistant professor of air force aerospace studies, had his retirement ceremony Monday.

In 1981, Morgan attended the U.S. Air Force Academy under the nomination of Sen. Charles Grassley. He was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force in 1985. Morgan’s father was in the U.S. Marine Corps, but his family was not his motivation for joining the military.

“It was more of the challenge that drew me to the military and the Air Force Academy,” Morgan said. “I was challenged to see if I could do it.” 

Morgan was a gymnast, so the physical aspect of training did not worry him.

“[My preparation for entering the academy was] mainly getting my grades up,” Morgan said.

Morgan moved throughout his career with the Air Force including to places such as the Philippines, England, Germany, North Dakota and Hawaii. 

“I like to move around,” Morgan said.

His favorite countries that he stayed in were Germany, England and Thailand. He said being in the military builds close bonds to others.

“It keeps them going when it’s tough times. Others around you are counting on you, and you know that they’d do the same for you,” Morgan said.

Morgan came to Iowa State to be closer to family after learning his mother had been diagnosed with cancer.

“They were prepared to move me here quicker than I was ready to get here,” Morgan said. “The mission always comes first, but if there’s a way that they can help out, they will.”

Morgan found out in September that he would be retiring because there are too many people on board at senior ranks.

“I’m very excited — it’s something completely different. With every move or duty came a different challenge. This is just another switch to a different challenge,” Morgan said.

“[My most rewarding moments were] as a team, continually given challenges and succeed at them. To be able to be called upon and to execute it is the most rewarding,” Morgan said. 

As an instructor, he found it rewarding to see his students succeed as well.  

A proud moment for Morgan was when he was a part of flying in Korea during an exercise of simulated assault over a city.

“The timing was exceptionally good,” Morgan said.

Morgan was also at the embassy in Indonesia during political unrest. Through military coordination, they were able to communicate absolute real time on what was happening, which kept the ambassador informed and able to make decisions.

“[The most difficult part of a military career is] all the different ways you get pulled. You want to give everything to your job, but to your family too,” Morgan said. 

He also believes it gives families unique experiences.

“[In the Air Force] you’re always looking forward to the next place you’re going,” Morgan said. “My lifestyle is going to be a little more stable now. It’s going to be one of the biggest adjustments.”