Colonel John R. “Ron” Vineyard, Ret., had a notable 27-year career in the U.S. Air Force and the Tennessee Air National Guard. Having displayed a passion and aptitude for aviation, he earned his wings in June 1955. During his military service, he flew various aircraft including the F-104 Starfighter with the Tennessee Air National Guard assigned to the 151st Fighter Interceptor Squadron; the F-100 “Hun” Super Sabre with the 306th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Homestead Air Force Base; and the F-4 Phantom at Udorn Royal Thai Air Base in Thailand and MacDill Air Force Base.

In 1961, Col. Vineyard deployed with the Tennessee Air National Guard to Ramstein Air Base Germany during the Berlin Crisis of 1961. In Germany, he flew fighter interceptor missions with the 151st Squadron, ensuring that air corridors into Berlin remained open. Col. Vineyard then returned to the Air Force being assigned to the 31st Tactical Fighter Wing at Homestead Air Force Base, Florida. From there he deployed to Izmir, Turkey where he stood nuclear alert in the wake of the Cuban Missile Crisis. In December, 1966, he deployed with the 31st Wing to Tuy Hoa Air Base, Vietnam. Upon his return from Southeast Asia, Col. Vineyard was assigned to Luke Air Force Base as an instructor pilot in the F-104 with the German Air Force. He was then assigned to Headquarters, Tactical Air Command at Langley Air Force Base. Col. Vineyard commanded the 13th Tactical Fighter Squadron at MacDill Air Force Base. Subsequently, he was promoted to Colonel and returned to Langley Air Force Base where he was again assigned to Headquarters, Tactical Air Command, where he served on the Inspector General’s team. This was his last active duty station.

His commendable service is evidenced by his numerous decorations including the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars; the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with V Device; the Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Cluster; the Meritorious Service Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster; the Air Medal with nine Oak Leaf Clusters; and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Device.

Col. Vineyard proudly served his country with dignity, honor, and valor, leaving an indelible legacy of accomplishments.