Richard Eugene “Dick” Skelton was born on April 22, 1928 in Roanoke, Virginia. He was the son of William McKinney Skelton and Helen Iler Wise Skelton. He graduated from VMI, class of 1950-B with a degree in Chemistry. He began active duty in the USAF in July, 1950. He received his wings in October 1951. From 1952 until his death in 1977 he served his Country with great pride. Colonel Skelton was a command pilot with more than 5,000 flying hours. He had many decorations including the Korean Service Medal and Vietnam Service Medal. Dick suffered a fatal heart attack shortly after landing his F-4 Phantom jet at Spangdahlem AFB where he was the commander of the 52nd Tactical Fighter Wing. He is now buried in the Sherwood Burial Park, Salem, Salem City, Virginia, USA. He also has a memorial marker located in Saint John’s Episcopal Church Columbarium, Roanoke, Roanoke City, Virginia.