AFSA Past Presidents by Year

We Honor DON GORDON WARD, AFSA Founding member
Join Executive Director, Keith A. Reed, and the entire AFSA family in sharing our heartfelt prayers and condolences on the passing of Don Gordon Ward, AFSA founding member. OCTOBER 3, 1930 – MARCH 5, 2022
---------------------
It is with a heavy heart that I report the passing of Don. He passed this morning peacefully at 8:20am. As you know, he was one of the founding members in 1961. Dad was very proud of the contribution he was part of and the continuing legacy of excellence the AFSA exhibits daily for its members and mission. Of which, I'm a member too.
He was an AFOSI Agent at the time AFSA was incorporated. He was most proud of his time spent in the Ground Observer Corps (El Paso Texas Filter Center) in the 1950s. Part of OPERATION Sky Watch. With the advancing capabilities in radar detection, the program was retired in 1959. After his Air Force retirement in 1971, Dad started a career in the Dept. of Labor as an Investigator. His accomplishments as part of the Miami Strike Force were to investigate and lead to the prosecution of corrupt Union Bosses who were embezzling money from their members/organizations. During his time assigned to the Louisville, KY area (from 1977-1979), he was part of the Jefferson County Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Oversight Committee. As a result of his devoted service, Dad received a thank you letter from a County Judge/Executive named Mitch McConnell (Senator - KY). After retiring from civil service, Don enjoyed his family, friends, and associates. Dad did receive a visit from Mr. Virgil Perry while passing through Kentucky on vacation. The bond of service to our nation and Air Force lasts a lifetime between service members.
Dad is survived by his wife, Bette Ward. His daughters, Donna Owens, Cindy West, and Judy Kaelin.

Sincerely,
Richard Owens, MSgt (Ret.)
Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Air Force Sergeants Association at HQAFSA.org.
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/.../lou.../don-ward-10618693