Maj. (Ret.) George Pankonin served in the Air Force from 1970 to 1993. Pankonin served as an enlisted Airman from Nov. 18, 1970, to Sept. 28, 1978. Before earning his bachelor’s degree, and attending officer training school, Pankonin attained the rank of staff sergeant. His final assignment on active duty was as the 3345th Supply Squadron commander at Chanute Air Force Base, Illinois. He currently serves as the president of the 4RKids Foundation, an organization he helped form 13 years ago that provides educational, vocational and athletic opportunities for developmentally disabled Oklahomans. He is also the chairman for the Greater Enid Chamber of Commerce's annual Enlisted Appreciation Night at Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma, and is the Vance Retiree Activities Office director. Pankonin said the Air Force taught him many values that have impacted who he has become. He learned the importance of discipline, but more importantly, he learned how to set and attain goals.