Rich history for retired pilot

  • Published
  • By Maj. David Kuch
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Commander's Action Group
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  For one former Travis pilot, the story of his past is one filled with unique experiences and rich Travis history.

He is humanitarian, aviator, veteran, crusader and entrepreneur. When given the opportunity to talk with Duncan Miller, one is immediately intrigued by his humility and generosity. The 87-year Army Air Corps veteran feels "greatly blessed" for the life he has lived.

His fascination with aviation started at a young age. "I always dreamed of flying," recounted Mr Miller. As a boy growing-up in Omaha, Neb., he would ride his bicycle to the local airport to help wash the airplanes in exchange for an opportunity to ride along during a flight. This youthful intrigue quickly developed into a passion for aviation. Upon graduation from high school in 1939, he earned his private pilot license through the Non-College Civilian Pilot Training Program. After earning his commission at Officer Candidate School, the flight officer ferried newly manufactured aircraft, to include the P-51 Mustang and B-25 Mitchell, from American factories to the theater of operation. "It was a dream job," Mr. Miller recalled. "I flew brand new fighter and bombers without anyone shooting at me."

At the end of World War II, the young pilot was reassigned to Fairfield-Suisun Army Air Base (renamed Travis Air Force Base in 1951). Not trained to fly the base's aircraft, Lieutenant Miller did "whatever was needed on base," regardless of the task. This spirit is symbolic of his teamwork and dedication. Upon receipt of the installation's new C-47 Skytrains for which he was qualified to operate, the lieutenant was quickly appointed a flight instructor. Delighted to serve as an instructor, Lieutenant Miller's aviation expertise and enthusiasm groomed the pilots he trained. His military career was unfortunately cut-short as a result of the post-war restructuring.

As a civilian, Mr. Miller continued pursuing his dreams. His ingenuity resulted in the establishment of several business endeavors to include a small airline through the purchase of a surplus of C-46 Commandos. Over the years, the Gordon Valley resident has amassed 16,000 flight hours in 30 different aircraft. He continues to fly as frequently as possible, and flies bi-weekly milk deliveries to food banks in the surrounding counties providing 5,000 gallons of milk to families in need. He also serves on the Travis Museum Board of Directors.

In the past 50 years, he has restored 15 vintage military aircraft. Earlier this year, Mr. Miller donated the C-47 "Okie Dokie" he purchased and restored to the Travis Air Museum enabling the public to appreciate this distinguished airlifter. On Sunday afternoons, he opens his hangers located at Vacaville's Nut Tree Airport to the public at no cost to view and explore his 11 historic aircraft. Through his selfless actions, he inspires an appreciation of history and pride in future generations. He is thankful for his service time and Team Travis, stating "Travis has been a real treasure to me."