Two Navy T-45C Goshawk aircraft performed a flyover above Barrancas National Cemetery aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Florida, May 16 as a tribute to a fallen Vietnam War-era naval aviator.

Retired Cmdr. Ralph Ellis Gaither Jr. was laid to rest surrounded by family, friends, and fellow service members Thursday morning.

Gaither began training as naval aviator more than five decades ago at NAS Pensacola, the same location as his final resting place. Two T-45C Goshawks from Training Air Wing 6 in Pensacola flew over just as the final notes of TAPS were heard.

“We were honored to be part of sending off such a great naval aviator and war hero,” Cmdr. Michael Britt, one of the pilots who performed the flyover, said. “We are all truly grateful for all Cmdr. Gather’s and his family’s service and sacrifices.”

Gaither was designated a naval aviator in 1964 and went on to fly the F-4B Phantom with the “Jolly Rogers” of Fighter Squadron (VF) 84. Gaither deployed aboard USS Independence (CVN 62) and conducted missions in the Gulf of Tonkin in both North and South Vietnam.

Shortly into his deployment, he was shot down near the Long Song Province of North Vietnam. Gaither performed a low altitude ejection at over 500 knots from his F-4B Phantom in order to escape with his life. He was soon captured and held as a POW in Hoa Lo Prison, better known for its nickname as the Hanoi Hilton.

Gaither endured 2,675 days as a POW before returning to the United States as part of Operation Homecoming, Feb. 12, 1973. After his arrival home Gaither returned to his previous flight status for the U.S. Navy. He continued his naval career until he retired in 1986. During his time in the Navy, Gaither went above and beyond to serve his country. His dedication and actions will serve as challenging goals for future generations of naval aviators.

Gaither was awarded two Silver Stars, two Legions of Merit with Combat V, the Distinguished Flying Cross, four Bronze Stars with Combat V, six Air Medals, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, two Purple Hearts, Navy Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, 16 Vietnam Service Medals, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the POW Medal.

Before his passing, Gaither said, "I learned many things as a prisoner of war, the most significant is that there is indeed a God who listens and cares. We must live each day with an appreciation for the many blessings we have been so fruitfully given."

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