Don Guthals - K0ZNC
Don enlisted in the USAF in the mid 1950s. He was trained in electronics, nuclear systems and radar fusing systems. Following his technical training, he was assigned to the 1st PBS on the Matador missile system and deployed to Bitburg, Germany. (The unit was later renamed 1st TAC Missile Squadron and ultimately to the 585th TAC Missile Squadron.) Don received Honorable Discharge in the early 60's.
Don was born and raised in Colorado. He attended Colorado School of Mines and Colorado University, earning a BSEE degree. He worked for the Ball Brothers Research Corporation, a division of the Ball Mason canning jar company. Don worked on a number of interesting projects while at BBRC, including the Aerobee rocket (shown at left) missions to study the sun and planets, and the spacecraft attitude determination systems for the Pioneer Venus program and the Space Shuttle. He later moved into management, taking on responsibility as VP of Engineering for High Technology Products at Ball Aerospace. Don retired from Ball Aerospace after 34 years.
Don was a private pilot and flight instructor in single- and multi-engine aircraft, as well as gliders and helicopters for over 40 years.
Don has been an amateur radio operator for many years and holds an Extra certificate. His shack is shown at right.
Don married his lovely wife in 1956 and they reside in the Longmont/Boulder/Niwot area of Colorado. They are blessed with two sons and two grandsons and one great-grand daughter.
73 - Don Guthals, K0ZNC, AFFC #540