In 1958, Dick's interest in flying evolved into his livelihood when he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. Dick was selected for the Aviation Cadet Program in 1961, commissioned second lieutenant and designated a Naval Aviator in 1962. From 1955 to 1968, he served in the Marine Corps and in the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1968. On his return to civilian life, Dick joined GE's Boston flight operation. Later, GE closed this facility and transferred him to White Plains' Westchester County Airport where he will finish his career.
Communications are instantaneous.
Thirty years ago, we were in the Teletype era. A fax in the middle of the ocean was a dream. With today's navigation accuracy, we can place an aircraft in position to land in the worst possible weather conditions. In terms of the speed of growth, Dick feels that corporations will drive business aviation's future. But as he nears retirement, his thoughts are of visiting all the places he used to see from a high altitude, from the ground level.