|
Russell E. Dougherty
(1920 – 2007)
General Russell E. Dougherty, USAF (Ret.) died September 7 at
age 86 in his home in Falcons Landing, Potomac Falls, VA. He was
AFA's Executive Director from 1980 to 1986 and a life member. Under his
leadership the Association realized a dream of owning the headquarters building
which was constructed in Arlington, Virginia in 1983-1984. He also spearheaded
the Gathering of Eagles held in Las Vegas in 1986.
General Dougherty was a true national hero whose remarkable
legacy spanned both the flying and legal fields. He was born in Glasgow, Kentucky,
and was a graduate of Western Kentucky University, the Law School of
the University of Louisville and the National War College. In addition
he held an honorary doctor of law degree from the University of Akron,
an honorary doctor of science degree from Westminster College, and was an "Old Master"
of Purdue University.
During his more than 35 years of military service, General
Dougherty served in the 123rd Cavalry, Kentucky National Guard, as an instructor
pilot; pilot combat crew on B-17 and B-29; in the Staff Judge Advocate Corps
and Intelligence Office. From 1952 on, he held a number of assignments
with Strategic Air Command including flying and command positions in the B-47
and KC-97 at the squadron level. As an air power visionary, he planned the first
B-52 round-the-world-flight.
On May 1, l972, General Dougherty was promoted to his
four-star grade and assigned as chief of staff, Supreme Headquarters Allied
Powers Europe, headquarters of NATO's Allied Command Europe. He returned to
the United States on August 1, 1974, to become the eighth commander of
the Strategic Air Command.
He was a command pilot and master missileer. Included among
his military decorations and awards are the Defense Distinguished Service
Medal, Air Force Distinguished Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Legion
of Merit with two oak leaf clusters, Bronze Star Medal, and the
Joint Service Commendation Medal. He was a member of the Kentucky State
Bar Association and the Bar Association of the U.S. Supreme Court.
A memorial service took place on September 27 at the Memorial
Chapel, Fort Myer, with interment at Arlington National Cemetery with full
military honors. The family has requested that donations be sent to The Air Force
Aid Society, Inc., Suite 202, 241 18th Street, South, Arlington, VA 22202
or Air Force Enlisted Village, 92 Sunset Lane, Shalimar, FL 32579.
General Dougherty is survived by his wife Barbara, a daughter,
Diane Ralston, and a son, Mark Dougherty and several grandchildren. His
son, Bryant, preceeded him in death as well as his first wife, Gerry.
Notes of condolence can be sent to: Mrs. Barbara Dougherty,
20520 Falcons Landing Circle, Apartment #2510. Potomac Falls, VA 20165.
Return to the Table of Contents
or go to the Next Article
|
