Richard Alden Eldridge

ELDRIDGE, RICHARD ALDEN Age 88, a resident of Albuquerque since 2005, died Saturday, June 21, 2014. He is survived by his daughter, Devon E. Jercinovic, also of Albuquerque; and grandchildren, William, Chad, and Grace. Richard Eldridge was preceded in death by his wife, Ann T. Eldridge. He grew up in Bourne, Massachusetts and was sworn in as a Naval Aviation Cadet in 1943. He enjoyed a 33-year career as a decorated fighter pilot, test pilot, and later Director, Naval Aviation Safety Center, Atlantic Fleet, Norfolk, Virginia. Mr. Eldridge chased submarines in the Korean War and served three tours in Viet Nam, two as a pilot, and one as the Navigator, USS Hornet. He retired as a Captain in 1975. Richard logged over 6,200 flight hours and 732 carrier landings. Mr. Eldridge also served as Program Manager for Logistical and Safety Contracts for QED Systems, Inc. until retirement in 1991. His great passions in life were flying and genealogy. Ennichement with full honors will take place at the Massachusetts National Cemetery on Friday, August 8, 2014, 11:00 a.m. in Bourne, Massachusetts.