Last Known Activity:
He was an F-105 pilot with the 333rd Tactical Fighter Squadron at Takhli Royal Thai AFB, Thailand, from Jun 1966 until he was forced to eject over North Vietnam and was taken as a Prisoner of War on Jul 8, 1966. After spending 2,412 days in captivity, Capt Browning was released during Operation Homecoming on Feb 12, 1973. He retired from the Air Force Sep 1, 1992. After his 28 years in uniform, he was a distinguished and popular community leader.
His AFDSM citation:
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS
DURING Peace Time Awards
Service: Air Force
Division: 313th Air Division, Kadena Air Base, Japan
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to Brigadier General Ralph Thomas Browning, United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious service in duties of great responsibility. General Browning distinguished himself as Commander, 313th Air Division, Kadena Air Base, Japan, and Commander, 58th Fighter Wing, Luke Air Base, Arizona, from 18 August 1988 to 31 August 1992. In these important assignments, the forceful leadership and outstanding, dedicated efforts of General Browning were significantly displayed in the combat readiness of fighter aircrews throughout the Air Force, the United States Marine Corps, and the Government of Japan. In the position of Commander, 58th Fighter Wing, he launched an unprecedented effort that curbed land and airspace encroachment and protected Luke's vital fighter aircrew training mission. In both assignments, General Browning's aggressive initiatives to improve the quality of life for his people and genuine concern for their welfare will have a positive and lasting impact. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Browning culminate a distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air force.
His Silver Star citation:
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS
DURING Vietnam War
Service: Air Force
Division: Prisoner of War (North Vietnam)
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Ralph Thomas Browning, United States Air Force, for gallantry and intrepidity in action in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force during the period from July 8, 1966 to July 20, 1966, while a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam. Ignoring international agreements on treatment of prisoners of war, the enemy resorted to mental and physical cruelties to obtain information, confessions, and propaganda materials. Captain Browning resisted their demands by calling upon his deepest inner strengths in a manner which reflected his devotion to duty and great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
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