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First Name
Ronald
Middle Name
G.
Last Name
Bliss
Birthdate
Hometown
Buckeye, Arizona
Rank
Captain
Service Branch
Air Force
Date Captured
Date Repatriated
Pre Capture Image
PreCapture Description
Ron Bliss entered the U.S. Air Force Academy in June 1960, and graduated with a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force on June 3, 1964. Lieutenant Bliss next completed pilot training and was awarded his pilot wings at Reese AFB, Texas, in October 1965, followed by F-105 Thunderchief Combat Crew Training from October 1965 to May 1966. His first assignment was as an F-105 pilot with the 357th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Takhli Royal Thai AFB, Thailand, from June 1966 until he was forced to eject over North Vietnam and was taken as a Prisoner of War on September 4, 1966.
Post Release Image
Post Release Description
Captain Bliss was released during Operation Homecoming on March 4, 1973. He was briefly hospitalized to recover from his injuries at Lackland AFB, Texas, and then returned to flying status as a T-38 Talon instructor pilot with the 465th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron at Holloman AFB, New Mexico, from September 1973 until he left active duty on June 3, 1974. After leaving the Air Force, Ron completed Law School and worked as a lawyer for many years. He Flew West on February 8, 2005, and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Honors, Citations, and Commendations
- Silver Star (5)
- Distinguished Flying Cross
- Bronze Star (3)
- Prisoner of War Medal
Passed away before release
Post Release