Obituary
Major General Richard Vernon Secord, a legendary combat aviator, distinguished leader, and brilliant military strategist, passed away on October 15, 2024, at the age of 92. General Secord’s military career spanned more than three decades and included pivotal roles in the Vietnam War, Laos, Central Intelligence Agency, and U.S. strategic efforts in pre-revolution Iran. Known for his leadership and innovation in special operations, he was an early member of the Air Commandos, the U.S. Air Force's elite special operations unit. He was subsequently awarded the Air Commando Association’s US Special Operations Command Medal in 2007 for his outstanding contributions to, and in support of, special operations.
Born in 1932 in LaRue, Ohio, General Secord graduated from The United States Military Academy at West Point in 1955. Upon graduation, General Secord was sworn in as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force by then Captain Alexander Haig. General Secord began a remarkable career that would span over the next three decades and was involved in some of the most challenging and high-stakes operations of the 20th century. His introduction into special operations began when 1st Lieutenant Secord volunteered as a member of the famed 4400th Combat Crew Training Squadron executing Operation Jungle Jim in Vietnam. Later, he led air operations in support of the Ban Naden raid, the only successful POW rescue during the war. As a Colonel, he developed plans for the famous Vietnam air campaign later designated Operation Linebacker II, the largest US bombing campaign since World War II which arguably forced North Vietnamese officials back into peace talks in 1972.
Most notably, General Secord’s involvement in Iran is where he gained the most notoriety. In 1963, General Secord was sent to Iran for the first of many assignments there to assist Shah Mohammad Rezi Pahlavi secure the northwestern border against a Kurdish insurrection. His final tour in Iran was in 1975 for three years where he paved the way for Iranian I-Hawk and F-14 procurement and development. He departed Iran with his family in 1978 before the Iranian Revolution of 1979.
Major General Secord’s retirement was in May 1983, and was officiated by Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger. He was presented a Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the highest non-combat related military award and the highest joint service decoration. The Defense Distinguished Service Medal is normally awarded to the most senior officers such as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff or Chiefs of military services. This was General Secord’s second. Major General Richard Secord’s 32 years of faithful and dedicated service came to an end. However, his actions and involvement in many world events continue to resonate and exist today on the modern battlefield and in global affairs.
Perhaps General Secord’s greatest accomplishment was his 62-year marriage to the love of his life, Jo Ann. Jo Ann stood faithfully by General Secord throughout every twist and turn of his career and was a formidable presence in her own right. Jo Ann preceded him in death on January 7th, 2024. Together, they have three children: Julie, Laura, and John; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
As we remember Major General Richard Secord, we celebrate a life dedicated to duty, honor, and country. His contributions to the United States Air Force and the nation will leave an enduring legacy for generations to come. His profound impact on the military community and his unwavering commitment to service will not be forgotten.
Celebration of Life and Burial Details to follow. Please direct all inquiries to Verne Speirs, Family Representative, at 850 270-3331.