By Adolph A. Mitchell

George Turkiewicz is a man of remarkable longevity and tremendous work ethic. The 79-year-old telecommunications specialist received his 60 year service award from NAVAIR Commander VADM Joe Dyer, in ceremonies held at China Lake Aug. 7.

In reading his biography and list of accomplishments, RDML Michael Bachmann, commander NAVAIR WD, commented that Turkiewicz “is our frequency spectrum czar. It’s nice to have an expert amongst us defending our requirements in that area. You’re a true American, Turk,” he continued, referring to the name Turkiewicz is affectionately called by his co-workers.

In presenting the award, Dyer thanked Turk for allowing him to participate. “I asked you two years ago when this 60th would roll around, if I could come back and it’s a genuine pleasure to be here with you and to recognize you.” Dyer spoke of the honor it was for him to be present at the recognition of another milestone in Turk’s career.

Turk has been employed by the federal government for more than 63 years. His extraordinary career began as a military officer in January 1942 when he joined the Army Air Corp. He was commissioned as a pilot in 1943 and became a flight instructor for basic training in 1944. In 1947, Turk transferred to the Air Force from which he would retire as a Lt. Col. in March 1965.

His career as a civil servant with the Navy began in November 1965 as a telecommunication specialist in the Frequency Management Division. In his current position, Turk acts for the commander as the Department of Defense western area frequency coordinator (WAFC).

In presenting the plaque to Turk, Dyer commented “we are proud to present this to you and we hope that you will find a place of honor for it in your home as we honor you sir.” He then asked Turk to discuss his favorite story during his 60 career. Turk related an experience he had in 1962 when he was involved in launching the last nuclear shot in the Pacific. “You don’t ever want to see another shot like that. It lit up Hawaii at two in the morning.” He continued, “people could stand on the street and read a newspaper with no lights on. One thing I can guarantee, I don’t ever want to see that again,” he concluded.

Dyer then recognized Marion Turkiewicz, Turk’s wife, for the outstanding support she has provided to her husband during his more than six decade career, by presenting her a NAVAIR gold coin.

Turk and his wife currently reside in Camarillo and says, “I have no plans to retire anytime soon.” He enjoys his job working for the Weapons Division and looks forward to continue working as long as he can keep enjoying what he does.