Major Richard Warren Chase, An Airman's Story
Major Richard Warren Chase, An Airman's Story
Major Richard Warren Chase was born on February 18, 1947, in South Bend, Indiana. He attended Penn High School in nearby Mishawaka, where he was an active member of the school’s debate team and choir—pursuits that reflected both discipline and a thoughtful engagement with the world around him. He later graduated from Purdue University.
On January 2, 1970, Chase enlisted in the United States Air Force. Trained as a pilot, he served during the final years of the Vietnam War, flying missions when air operations remained critical to both combat and support efforts. His service reflected the demanding responsibilities placed on aviators during a prolonged and complex conflict.
Chase left active duty in December 1982 but continued his commitment to service as a member of the U.S. Air Force Reserve. In that capacity, he remained ready to return to duty as global circumstances required.
In August 1990, following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait, Major Chase was recalled to active service with the 433rd Airlift Wing in response to Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Stationed at Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany, he participated in airlift operations responsible for transporting medical supplies, food, and essential equipment to U.S. and coalition forces deploying to the Persian Gulf.
On August 29, 1990, Major Richard Warren Chase was killed when a C-5A Galaxy transport aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Ramstein Air Base. The accident claimed the lives of servicemembers deploying in the opening days of the Gulf War.
Major Chase is buried at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas. He is remembered as an Air Force pilot whose career spanned decades, whose service bridged two eras of conflict, and whose life was lost while answering the call to serve once again.
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About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life
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