Forest City, Iowa — Forest City is proud to welcome Timothy Bacon, a retired U.S. Air Force veteran, as its latest Home Base Iowa recipient. With more than two decades of military service, Bacon brings with him a legacy of dedication, leadership, and commitment to family and community.
Originally from Tulare, South Dakota, Bacon decided to join the U.S. Air Force shortly after graduating high school. Raised in a blue-collar family with deep military roots, relatives who served across multiple branches and generations, military service felt like a natural path. “They were always people I looked up to.” Bacon shared, reflecting on his decision to serve.
Bacon went on to complete more than 23 years of active-duty service, retiring from the Air Force in 2015. During the first half of his career, he served as an avionics specialist, working on EF-111A aircraft before cross-training to support F-15 C/D models. Later in his career, seeking greater stability and more time at home, Bacon transitioned into Air Force recruiting, where he served in several leadership positions, including trainer, flight supervisor, operations superintendent, and senior trainer. He retired at the rank of Production Superintendent.
Throughout his Air Force career, Bacon was stationed at McChord Air Force Base (Washington), Kadena Air Base (Okinawa, Japan), Offutt Air Force Base (Nebraska), and Scott Air Force Base (Illinois). His service included multiple deployments in support of Operations Desert Shield, Desert Fox, Provide Comfort, and Provide Hope, with tours in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt. He also completed temporary duty assignments in Korea, Guam, Alaska, and Australia.
Reflecting on his time in uniform, Bacon credits military service with shaping his values and perspective. “I’m not someone who plans to retire and travel the world,” he said. “I like it right here in the good old USA.” The technical skills he developed as an electronics technician have carried over into civilian life, particularly when working on vehicles and troubleshooting mechanical issues, a practical benefit honed through years of problem-solving in the Air Force.
Transitioning to civilian life was not without challenges. Accustomed to structure, routine, and the close-knit camaraderie of military life, the adjustment proved difficult. “You miss the family aspect of it; the brothers and sisters you worked alongside every day,” Bacon explained. “I still miss it years later.”
Like many career servicemembers, Bacon spent years thinking about where he and his family would eventually settle. He recalls keeping a map on the wall, carefully weighing factors such as cost of living, taxes, regulations, and quality of life. Ultimately, peace, quiet, and a sense of tranquility were most important.
That search led Bacon and his wife, Kristi, to Forest City. Together, they have raised five children; three sons and two daughters, and continue a strong tradition of service. Two of their children are now serving in the U.S. Air Force, while another works as a nurse at Mercy in Mason City. Timothy and Kristi are also proud grandparents to a grandson who lives nearby in Manly.
Bacon credits military life with helping shape his children into resilient, adaptable adults. “Moving to new places didn’t bother them,” he said. “They have a broader view of the world, and I’d like to think their work ethic comes from growing up in that environment.”
Since relocating to Forest City, the Bacon family has felt warmly welcomed. “People here are friendly, but not overly in each other’s business,” Bacon noted. Local residents and veteran organizations have reached out, invited the family to community events, and offered support. “It’s been a very warm feeling,” he said. “Thank you all.”
Through the Home Base Iowa program, Forest City is honored to welcome Timothy Bacon and his family. His story reflects the values of service, resilience, and community that make Iowa an exceptional place for veterans to call home.
