Dana Miller and Derek C. Miller, Children of Gerald E. Miller

This Father’s Day, our family proudly honors Gerald E. Miller, who served at Minot Air Force Base during the early years of the Minuteman missile mission as a member of the 862d Combat Defense Squadron, later known as the Security Police Squadron.

As a Missile Security Policeman, Gerald helped protect strategic missile assets during the Cold War. His duties included supporting the India Launch Control Facility, where his leadership, dedication, and professionalism earned recognition from his chain of command. Official letters from 1968 commend his outstanding performance and note that his efforts brought credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Air Force. He was also recognized for voluntarily returning to duty to help prepare the India Launch Control Facility for inspection and competition activities.

Following his service at Minot, Gerald served overseas in Thailand with the 56th Security Police Squadron during the Vietnam War. His distinguished service earned him the Air Force Commendation Medal, awarded for meritorious service, professional skill, devotion to duty, and personal initiative.

Perhaps his greatest legacy is the example he set for his family. Inspired by his father’s commitment to service, Gerald’s son, Derek W. Miller, followed in his footsteps by joining the United States Air Force and serving seven years at Minot Air Force Base. Decades after Gerald stood watch over Minot’s missile mission, his son would continue serving at the same installation, carrying forward the values of duty, integrity, and service before self.
The connection between father and son, both Airmen who proudly served at Minot AFB, is a reminder that the legacy of military service often spans generations.

Happy Father’s Day to a father, veteran, and Airman whose example continues to inspire his family and those who knew him.