Larson applied for duty with the U.S. Air Force Security Service and in October 1956 was assigned to March Air Force Base, California, to attend the Communications Intelligence course. He graduated first in his class in May 1957, and then served as the chief of the Analytical Training Branch of the school. In August 1958 he was placed in charge of an advance party in the movement of the intelligence school to Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas. Larson's assignments at the school progressed into positions of increasing responsibility. In April 1959, after completing Squadron Officer School, he became chief of the Language Training Division.[1]
In July 1971, Larson became the senior military representative of the National Security Agency at the Pentagon where, as the principal military spokesman for the director of the agency, he provided support to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the military departments. He transferred to the Air Staff in July 1972 as assistant for joint matters, assistant chief of staff, intelligence, and in May 1973 became the director, policy and resource management.[1]
In September 1974, Larson was appointed director for intelligence, Headquarters United States Pacific Command at Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii. He became deputy chief of staff for intelligence, Headquarters Strategic Air Command in January 1977. He assumed command of U.S. Air Force Security Service in January 1979.[1]
He was promoted to major general July 1, 1977, with date of rank May 1, 1974. He retired from the Air Force on August 1, 1983, and died on August 13, 2007.[1] He was buried in Riverside Cemetery, in his hometown of Madelia, Minnesota.
Awards and decorations
His military decorations and awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit with two oak leaf clusters, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with two oak leaf clusters and "V" device. He wears the Aircraft Observer and Missile badges.[1]
Since 1979, the Maj. Gen. Doyle E. Larson Award has recognized the top technicians vital to the accomplishment of the Air Force's intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission.[3]
In 1982, Larson was presented the Order of the Sword, an award for which Air Force non-commissioned officers honor leaders who have made significant contributions to the enlisted corps.[4]
