Skip to Content

From Tents to Tactical Wings: Honoring Tech Sergeant Richard Decker on the 75th Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice

TSgt. Richard Decker - USAF Retired
Pictured in photo: TSgt. Richard Decker (USAF Retired)

The Korean winter bit through canvas tents as fighter jets roared overhead, shaking the frozen ground below. In those valleys—where the silence could be shattered by gunfire—a young Airman named Richard Decker braved the elements and enemy fire with grit, instinct, and a deep sense of duty.

Now, 75 years after the signing of the Korean War Armistice, Decker lives in peaceful reflection at the Community Living Center at the Orlando VA Medical Center, a living testament to a generation that served with courage, sacrifice, and honor.

Decker’s journey began in Erie, Pennsylvania, where he enlisted in the United States Air Force shortly after the end of World War II. Born on August 12, 1933, he lost his father when he was only two years old. Decker left high school early, driven by determination to serve his country and see the world. For more than 20 years, that calling shaped every chapter of his life.

During the Korean War, Decker was assigned to the 84th Bombardment Squadron and served as a railroad laborer, supporting vital logistics operations under harsh and dangerous conditions. “We were sleeping in tents, then heading out to fight in valleys with aircraft shooting overhead,” he recalls. 

In moments of downtime, Decker found creative ways to build camaraderie. He recalls trading food with nearby Army units stationed at a lower base camp. “One time we got chicken, another time we made spaghetti right from our tent,” he laughs. Those small acts of normalcy brought comfort in an unpredictable environment.

Decker later served in the Vietnam War as both an aircraft mechanic and automotive mechanic—roles critical to mission readiness and tactical operations. He was assigned to the 77th Tactical Fighter Squadron, where he worked on C-54 aircraft, ensuring aircraft were battle-ready in high-stress, fast-paced conditions.

Over the course of his career, Decker was stationed at multiple bases across the U.S. and Europe, including:

  • Amarillo AFB, Texas
  • Carswell AFB, Texas
  • RAF Upper Heyford, England
  • RAF Scunthorpe, England
  • McCoy AFB, Orlando, Florida


He earned the rank of Technical Sergeant and received numerous military decorations which include:

  • Air Force Longevity Service Award
  • Air Force Good Conduct Medal
  • Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal
  • Vietnam Service Medal with Three Bronze Service Stars
  • Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
  • Korean Service Medal
  • United Nations Service Medal
  • National Defense Service Medal
  • Air Force Achievement Medal with Three Oak Leaf Clusters


When reflecting on how military life has changed since his days in uniform, Decker grins and says, “They have buildings now. We had tents.” It’s a simple statement that speaks volumes about the rugged nature of service during his era.

Now 91 years old, Decker reflects on the 75th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice with a mix of humility and humor. “I feel old,” he says. “But I miss the guys. I miss the camaraderie.”

“As the nation honors the sacrifices made during the Korean War, we also honor the individuals behind the history—Veterans like Tech Sergeant Richard Decker, whose bravery and commitment helped define a generation and secure the freedoms we enjoy today,” said Timothy J. Cooke, Director/CEO, Orlando VA Healthcare System. “Thank you, Tech Sergeant Decker, for your selfless service and the enduring legacy you leave for all who wear the uniform.”             

                                                                                                     ###

Established in 2006, the Orlando VA Healthcare System is one of the leading healthcare systems serving more than 142,000 Veterans in the VA Sunshine Health Care Network offering healthcare services at 11 locations serving east central Florida. Recently recognized by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the healthcare system received 5 out of 5 stars in overall hospital quality. The healthcare system has also been given 5-star recognition for patient experience by Becker’s Hospital Review and was awarded the 2024 Patient Safety Program of Excellence designation from the Veterans Health Administration’s National Center for Patient Safety.

To learn more about the facilities and services offered by the OVAHCS, please visit: VA Orlando Health Care | Veterans Affairs, subscribe to receive email updates by clicking here, like us on Facebook at: Orlando VA Healthcare System | Facebook, follow us on Instagram at: Orlando VA Healthcare System (@ovahcs) • Instagram photos and videos or on Twitter at: @OVAHCS / Twitter.