Posted by Ronald L. Salvador on June 19, 2010:

In 1961 Ray and I crossed paths for the first time after Graduation in Augsburg, Germany in the 24th Infantry Division. He was in the 19th Infantry and I was in the 7th Artillery. Although our organizational ties at that time were not connected, Georgia and I would visit with Mary and Ray at Officer Club functions on many occasions. About a year later, we both were selected for duties on the Division staff, Ray as the Aide to the Commanding General and I as an Assistant G-1. There our paths crossed on a regular basis, and we were able to support each other in carrying out our respective duties. A mentor for both of us was the Chief of Staff, Colonel Beverly "Rock" Read, a VMI graduate who constantly chided us and reminded us that we should be proud as graduates of the "VMI of the North". About six years later, after tours in Vietnam, Ray and I found ourselves in constant contact each day in the Enlisted Personnel Directorate of the Office of Personnel Operations where Ray was Executive Officer to the CG and I was Executive Officer to the Director of Operations. Together we moved hundreds of action documents, and Ray's patience often was stretched to the limit by my perceived casual approach to meeting deadline dates. I always have been impressed by Ray's ability to charm people with his wry sense of humor, his infectious smile and his quiet demeanor, but he left no doubt in anyone's mind when it was time to buckle down, get serious and get the job done. He was a superior officer and a great friend, and I shall miss him. Well done, Ray; be Thou at Peace!

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