My memories of Rick go back to our first meeting at NAS Glynco, GA before we got our wings in 1971. His enthusiasm for excelling while learning stayed with him for the rest of his life. He was all about helping others excel as well. Due to a shortage of Naval Flight Officers he and I went to VQ-2 in Spain as nuggets to fly the EA-3B without the benefit of fleet replacement training. We decided we would not allow ourselves to be considered less capable than others because we were inexperienced, and we eagerly shared our experiences and insights as we became more seasoned. We flew constantly, stood watches and alerts for each other, and before we knew it we became trainers for new guys learning about fleet carrier operations. We had much in common. We were less than a month apart in age, our fathers were pastors, we were both Philosophy majors, and our wives were named Susan. Our wives became lifelong friends, and Susan and I became godparents to Michelle. After Spain we saw each other infrequently as our assignments took us in different directions, but we always remained close personally. We served together again aboard USS Midway during his Gauntlet command tour, and I visited Rick and Susan after my wife Susan died. We greatly enjoyed many memories, and he generously gave me more books and charts from his collection. They wisely encouraged me to go forward when I shared my uncertainties about entering into a new marriage. I’m saddened to lose this dear lifelong friend, and know we’ll meet again in the presence of our Lord. Farewell for now Rick!