It’s 1971, the last year of the draft, but your draft number is 26. What would you do? 

Knowing that a number of 26 virtually guaranteed an all expenses paid trip to Vietnam, John Kleffner was hoping to control the situation as much as possible. So when he arrived for his physical at Naval Station Great Lakes, he noticed that there were only navy and marine branches represented. Preferring the army, he left, and went directly to the army recruitment office, and before you could say “Hooah” he was in the army.

Following basic and advanced basic training at Fort Polk, Louisiana, John was soon on his way to Bien Hoa, stationed at the 175th Radio Research field station. With a rank of PFC, he was in charge of three mortars for a two month period. He then accepted an offer to “move up north,” which was all the information he had before volunteering. It turned out that he was being transferred to “F Troop” - the 10th Combat Air Group. (In case you’re wondering, neither Sergeant O’Rourke nor Corporal Agarn were present.) Rather, John was part of the “Blues Team,” assisting in recovery of shot-down helicopters or whatever needed recovery.

After his stint in Vietnam, he returned to Fort Hood, Texas for a year, and then returned to Illinois, where he enrolled in Northern Illinois University. He soon applied for and was accepted for a position as a police officer on the midnight shift in Lake Villa, Illinois. After four years, a transfer to the Lincolnshire police department came, and after eight years he was promoted to sergeant. After another eight years he became commander, and eventually became chief of police. In all, he spent 31 years with the Lincolnshire police department.

While moving up in the ranks professionally, John was also busy academically, earning his Bachelor of Science in Education from Southern Illinois University, and his Masters in Business Management from Keller University. He also became part owner of a martial arts facility called “Sidekicks.” He holds 3rd degree black belts in hapkido and taekwondo.

Oh, and he also got married in 2009, on Halloween, to Lynn. It was certainly a ceremony and reception to remember, as they and their guests were dressed in elaborate costumes. They each have a child from their prior relationships; Lynn’s daughter is Brittani, and John’s son is Matthew. Grandson Eli rounds out the family.

John and Lynn considered Arizona for their retirement move, but ultimately selected Pelican Preserve. They enjoy the gym and pool, and concerts. Lynn is frequently in attendance at “Esther’s Boot Camp,” and John is frequently seen around the neighborhood riding his recumbent bike.  

So, how did Pelican Preserve win the Kleffner sweepstakes over Arizona for their retirement home? It’s simple!” says Lynn, and John agrees -  “There’s always something to do!”