This tribute was submitted by a reader as part of our Veterans Week initiative, brought to you by VFW Post 291, Agent of VFW Ohio Charities. If you’d like to celebrate a veteran in your life, click here to share your tribute. Together, let’s recognize these heroes and ensure their contributions are not forgotten.
Richard Fletcher
Submitted by Kim Fletcher
Branch of service: Air Force Master Sargent
Dad (Richard Fletcher) enlisted in the Air Force in 1951 and was stationed in Korea during the hostilities. After discharge from the Air Force (1955) he embarked on another long career in the Ohio Air National Guard (retiring in 1987) followed by a somewhat shorter career in the Air Force Reserve (retiring in 1992). During his time in the Air Force Reserve, Richard volunteered to be in one of the initial groups deployed to the Middle East in support of the buildup associated with Desert Shield, subsequently Desert Storm. I asked him one time, why he volunteered and he said “so your sons don’t have to”.
Though I never served, I owe a large debt of gratitude to Dad, as well as those who served before and after him. Additionally, I’m not sure I would be the man I am today without his help and support.
Unfortunately, dad passed away in April and I think of him everyday. He’s gone but not forgotten.
Dad is on the right in the picture and one of his best friends (Blake Kirsch) on the left.
Thanks for everything you did for us, Dad.
Happy Veterans Day!!!
Veterans Week is brought to you by Ralph Phillips VFW Post 291, Agent of VFW Ohio Charities. Join us in recognizing local heroes by submitting a tribute to a veteran in your life!
