CMSgt Ralph Ruscetta

CMSgt (retired) Ralph Ruscetta was born on July 25, 1941 in Newport, RI. He graduated from Rogers High School in 1959 and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in October of the same year. After Supply tech school, he reported to duty at Nellis AFB, NV where he was stationed for 5 years. He then was stationed at Langley AFB from 1965 to 1968 at HQ Tactical Air Command as a Supply Systems Analyst. He also served tours in Carswell AFB, TX; HQ 9th AF, Shaw AFB, SC; and MacDill AFB, FL. In addition to his U.S. based assignments, CMSgt Ruscetta supported U.S. military efforts in Southeast Asia from 1968 to 1970 at Don Muang Royal Thai Air Base, Bangkok, Thailand; again in 1971 to 1972 at HQ 7th AF, Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Republic of Vietnam; and from 1972 to 1973 at Udorn Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand. He also served two years, from 1977 to 1979 at Yokota Air Base, Japan. His 22 year Air Force career culminated in 1981 at Homestead, AFB where he was the Supply Manager for the 31st Fighter Wing at Homestead AFB, FL. During hs distinguished 22 year Air Force Career CMSgt Ruscetta was awarded numerous accolades to include the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Commendation Medal with four oak leaf clusters, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with two Silver Service Stars and one Bronze Service Star. CMSgt Ruscetta retired from the Air Force in 1981 and resides in Tampa FL. He married Martha Estrada on May 17, 1974 and has two children, Louis and Barbara. Since his retirement, CMSgt Ruscetta has remained an active member supporting the Veteran and Air Force communities.