Written by John Finn 330-263-2145 Email Story | Print Story

September 29, 2003

Ron Hustwit (front), professor of philosophy at Wooster, has passed along his interest in the discipline to son Ronnie (back).

WOOSTER, Ohio - Air Force intelligence is not likely to be listed among the top 10 career options for philosophy majors, but Ron Hustwit '95 sees a perfectly logical connection.

"Military intelligence requires analytical thinking," says Hustwit, who earned his master's degree at the University of Wyoming and his Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas. "Who better to make complex decisions in critical situations than someone who has studied the great philosophers?"

Hustwit, who says he always wanted to fly, was already a member of the Air Force ROTC and considering a career in the Air Force when he learned of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. "After watching the events on television that day, I made the decision to seek a commission in the Air Force," he says. "I wanted to become involved in the fight against terrorism."

Now a second lieutenant, Hustwit is deeply involved in that battle. He recently completed six weeks of training at Air and Space Basic School and began a four-year tour of active duty in June. "So far, the work has been very interesting," he says. "We have been involved in war games and other exercises aimed at understanding how the Air Force engages. Much of it is geared toward anticipating and preparing for what is going to happen next. Eventually, I would like to be part of the AMC (Air Mobility Command), which sorts and manages intelligence, and then briefs the pilots."

Hustwit's interest in flight and philosophy comes quite naturally. His uncle is a military pilot, and his father, Ron, Sr., has been a faculty member in the department of philosophy at Wooster since 1967.

"I never imagined my son would be in the military, but I'm very proud of him," says the elder Hustwit. "With his background, I know he will serve the Air Force well."

The younger Hustwit credits the influence of his father for putting him where he is today. "I was very lucky to have an opportunity to work with and study under my dad," he says. "He was an excellent teacher, and he was able to show me how to be a better thinker, which I hope will help me become a competent, caring, and responsible officer. The analytical skills I have acquired in philosophy are especially useful as an intelligence officer, who works with hypotheses, evidence, and if-then reasoning on a daily basis."

Ron Jr. hopes someday to teach philosophy at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, where he will seek an appointment. "In the end, I really want to teach philosophy to young, future leaders," he says. "Talking with bright Wooster students during a recent visit to campus has re-inspired me to become a teacher."