R. John A

My father R. Jon died suddenly on March 25, 2005 of a brain aneurysm. He graduated from the University of Texas — Austin. He participated in the ROTC program while in school and then joined the Navy in 1966. He became a pilot flying the F-4 Phantom jet during the Vietnam War from 1970-1971. He conducted 55 night landings, nearly 100 missions and was awarded "Flight Instructor of the Year" in 1968. My father spent five years in the Navy active duty and the next 25 years in the Navy Reserves where he commanded a unit at the Pentagon for several years. He was also a successful entrepreneur and businessman. In the late 80's, my dad was awarded the 'Legion of Merit' medal and later retired as a Captain. Despite these accomplishments and numerous others, he would never brag about them. Courage would be one of many words used to describe my father; he is the most courageous man that I have ever known. But he would not want to be described in that way, he would say, 'I was just doing my job.'

Submitted by Anonymous

Courage