*Article from Stroll River Bottoms, May 2026*
Written By: Dena Hymas
Photos Provided By: Ardell Camacho
Captain Ardell G. Camacho began his military career in Provo, Utah, when he was commissioned as a second lieutenant through the BYU Air Force ROTC program. At the time, he faced the possibility of being drafted into the Army as an enlisted soldier. Instead, he chose to serve as an officer in the United States Air Force—a decision influenced by both opportunity and family tradition. His father had served in the Army Air Corps during World War II, and an uncle later retired from the Air Force.
Camacho’s first experience in the service took him to the Special Services Officer School at Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi. From there, his career carried him to assignments across the country and overseas, including North Dakota, Thailand, Hawaii, Arizona, Arkansas, and Indiana.
For the first decade of his career, Camacho served as a Morale, Welfare, and Recreation officer, helping support the well-being of service members and their families. He later spent ten years working as a personnel officer, managing and supporting Air Force personnel.
One of his most memorable assignments was at Kilauea Military Camp in Hawaii, located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. From 1976 to 1978, his family lived less than half a mile from the crater of Kilauea volcano. While they never witnessed an eruption, they frequently felt minor earthquakes. The experience, along with the warmth of the local community, left a lasting impression. “When you leave Hawaii, Hawaii does not leave you,” Camacho recalls.
Throughout his service, Camacho received several honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and multiple Overseas Tour Ribbons.
He retired as a captain at Grissom Air Force Base in Indiana during a Memorial Day ceremony that honored both his service and the legacy of the 305th Air Refueling Wing.
After leaving the Air Force, Camacho continued serving his community through civilian work for 19 years, including time at the Arizona State Hospital. Reflecting on his career, he credits the military with shaping his discipline, strengthening his love for country, and creating friendships that have lasted more than fifty years.
Above all, Camacho emphasizes that service was a family effort. “When you are married,” he says, “you do not serve alone. You serve with your spouse and children.”
At a Glance
Ardell G. Camacho Branch: U.S. Air Force Rank: Captain (Retired) Years of Service: 20
Key Assignments:
- Keesler AFB, Mississippi
- North Dakota
- Thailand (183-day deployment)
- Hawaii – Kilauea Military Camp
- Arizona, Arkansas
- Grissom AFB, Indiana
Medals & Honors:
Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Overseas Tour Ribbons, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, and others.
Life After Service:
Worked 19 years in civilian roles, including at the Arizona State Hospital.
Personal Philosophy:
“When you are married, you don’t serve alone—you serve with your spouse and children.”
