Albert H. Wilkening facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Major General Albert H. Wilkening
Born	(1946-02-01)February 1, 1946 Freeport, New York, U.S.
Died	April 8, 2020(2020-04-08) (aged 74) Brooklyn, Wisconsin, U.S.
Allegiance	United States
Service/branch	Air National Guard
Years of service	1968–2007
Rank	Major General
Commands held	Wisconsin Air National Guard Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs
Awards	See below

Major General Albert H. Wilkening was a respected leader in the United States military. He was born on February 1, 1946, and passed away on April 8, 2020, at the age of 74.

From 2002 to 2007, he served as the top military officer for the state of Wisconsin. This important role meant he was in charge of both the federal and state duties of the Wisconsin Air National Guard and the Wisconsin Army National Guard. He also oversaw the Wisconsin Division of Emergency Management, which helps people during emergencies.

In 2003, Governor Jim Doyle asked Major General Wilkening to lead a new group called the Homeland Security Council in Wisconsin. He also became the governor's main advisor on homeland security matters. Major General Wilkening died from pancreatic cancer.

Military Career

Albert Wilkening began his military journey in 1968 when he joined the United States Air Force. He quickly became an officer, earning the rank of second lieutenant in March of that year.

After finishing his pilot training in Texas, he became a flight instructor. He taught others how to fly at Columbus Air Force Base until May 1973.

In August 1973, he joined the Wisconsin Air National Guard. Over the years, he held many important leadership roles. He commanded the 176th Tactical Fighter Squadron and was a deputy commander for operations for the 128th Tactical Fighter Wing.

From 1990 to 2002, he was the deputy leader for the Wisconsin Air National Guard. He was then chosen by Governor Scott McCallum to become the adjutant general, starting his new role on September 1, 2002.

Major General Wilkening was a highly skilled pilot. He flew many different types of aircraft for over 3,300 hours. Some of the planes he flew included the T-41, T-37, T-38, O-2A, OA-37, and the A-10.

Education and Training

Major General Wilkening believed in learning throughout his life. He earned several degrees and attended special military schools.

• 1967: He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Long Island University in New York.
• 1973: He earned a Master's Degree in Guidance Counseling and Personnel from Mississippi State University.
• 1976: He attended Squadron Officer School, a course for Air Force officers.
• 1979: He completed the Air Command and Staff College, another advanced training program for military leaders.
• 1989: He finished the National Security Management Course, which teaches about protecting the country.

Flight Information

Major General Wilkening was an expert pilot.

• Rating: He was a Command Pilot, which is a high honor for military pilots.
• Flight Hours: He flew for more than 3,300 hours during his career.
• Aircraft Flown: He piloted several different planes, including the T-41, T-37, T-38, O-2A, OA-37, and the A-10.

Awards and Decorations

Major General Wilkening received many awards for his dedicated service. These awards show his bravery, hard work, and leadership.

US Air Force Command Pilot Badge - This badge shows he was a highly skilled pilot.

Personal Awards
	Legion of Merit - A very high award given for outstanding service and achievements.
	Meritorious Service Medal with bronze oak leaf cluster - Given for excellent service. The oak leaf cluster means he received it more than once.
	Air Force Commendation Medal with bronze oak leaf cluster - Awarded for heroic acts or outstanding service.
	Army Commendation Medal - Similar to the Air Force Commendation Medal, but from the Army.
	Air Force Achievement Medal - Given for specific achievements or acts of service.
Team Awards
	Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with three bronze oak leaf clusters - Given to units that show exceptional performance.
	Air Force Organizational Excellence Award - Given to organizations for outstanding performance.
Service Awards
	Combat Readiness Medal with two bronze oak leaf clusters - Shows he was always ready for combat missions.
Campaign and Service Medals
	National Defense Service Medal with two bronze service stars - Awarded for serving during times of national emergency or war.
Other Awards
	Air Force Longevity Service Award with four bronze oak leaf clusters - Given for long periods of service in the Air Force.
	Armed Forces Reserve Medal with gold hourglass - Given to members of the Reserve components.
	Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon with one bronze service star - Shows he was an expert in shooting small arms.
	Air Force Training Ribbon - Awarded for completing initial military training.

Other Achievements

Major General Wilkening also served on the board of directors for the National Guard Association. This group supports and advocates for the National Guard.