Source: http://www.memorialsolutions.com/sitemaker/sites/herita3/memsol.cgi?user_id=329465

RICHARD D. STEVENS
February 16, 1921 - March 1, 2011

Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth,
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings...

Lt. Col. Richard D. Stevens of Niceville, FL passed away March 1, 2011 at Superior Residences of Niceville. He was born in Victoria County, Texas on February 16, 1921 to Alfred D. and Laura Vernor Stevens.

He entered the Army Air Corps at an early age serving as a command pilot in 3 wars. During World War II he dropped paratroopers in the African, European and Middle Eastern Campaigns. He continued to serve his country flying missions in Korea and Vietnam. During his long and distinguished military career he was the recipient of numerous decorations including the Bronze Star. Steve retired in 1969.

Survivors include his wife Jane; a daughter, Beverly Browning and husband Clyde of Sulpher Springs, Texas; a son, Michael Barker and wife Veronica of Bay City, Texas; a stepson, Jim Cairns and his wife Challen of Tampa, FL; two sisters, Muriel Tarkington of Needville, Texas and Shirley Ann Schorre of Cuero, Texas; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

And while with silent lifting mind I've trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.