Baldwinsville resident David Lathrop Retires after 35 years of Air National Guard service

New York Air National Guard Chief Master Sergeant David M. Lathrop, a Baldwinsville, N.Y. resident and veteran of the first Gulf War, retired after 35 years of National Guard service in a ceremony held June 5, 2022, at the 174th Attack Wing at Hancock Field Air National Guard Base.

Lathrop enlisted in May 1987 and completed his initial Aircraft Fuel System apprentice course at Chanute Air Force Base, Ill., in October 1987. His first duty was working as an A-10 Aircraft Fuel Systems Maintenance Technician with the 174th Tactical Fighter Wing in Syracuse, then still flying F-16 Fighting Falcons.

He was hired as a full time Air Technician for the 174th Maintenance Squadron as an F-16 Aircraft Electrical Systems specialist in December 1989. His background includes maintaining multiple Mission Design Series' to include A-10A Thunderbolt II, F-16A/B/C/D Fighting Falcon and MQ-9A Reaper aircraft.

Lathrop has held positions as Aircraft Structural Maintenance supervisor, Fabrication Element supervisor, Non-Destructive Inspection (NDI) specialist, Munitions Element Supervisor, Aircrew Flight Equipment Supervisor, Force Support Squadron Superintendent, Inspector General Superintendent and Quality Assurance Superintendent and most recently as the 174th Maintenance Group Superintendent.

When asked what one of his most memorable moments was, Lathrop said it was the ability to serve overseas with family members.

"Deploying to Saudi Arabia in 1991 for Operation Desert Shield/Storm with my father, Senior Master Sgt. Mack Lathrop and my brother, Master Sgt Tom Lathrop was an amazing experience."

One message he said he would leave to the Airmen currently serving and to the future Airmen is to embrace new experiences and new responsibilities.

"Get out of your comfort zone, challenge yourself, diversify your experience and expertise in order to be ready for increased responsibility," he said.

To view these members click here: https://dmna-ny.meritpages.com/achievements/Baldwinsville-resident-David-Lathrop-Retires-after-35-years-of-Air-National-Guard-service/151091