Richard J. Lemire

Richard “Dick” Lemire was born in Monterey Park, CA.  For the past 40 years, he has been a resident of Ramona CA.

So, he lived in southern California his whole life and managed a 30-year Navy career with 10 years at sea without having to move. Not the usual life of “Navy” sailors who relocate constantly during their career.

In a 2020 article in the Ramona Sentinel described, Dick Lemire as having a “colorful career with the U.S. Navy.”  The article also stated his military career reads “like a movie script, complete with high-profile tours of duty and suspenseful drama” and he “is no stranger to adversity.”

In 1964, a Vietnam tour was evident, so he wanted to choose his branch of service. The Navy choice was based on his family history. His uncles.

In 1966 he entered service. He started as an aviation antisubmarine warfare technician. Dick ended up touring Vietnam with HS-6 (Helicopters) which involved performing logistical assignments, medical evacuations, and personnel transfers. In 1969 he engaged in search and rescue operations for the USS Frank E. Evans destroyer. The bow of the Evans sank three minutes after taking a hit between the stacks which broke the ship in half. This was one of his most memorable Vietnam experiences.

He completed two tours in Vietnam.

In the mid-seventies another “home” for Dick was on the USS Midway in Japan now operating in San Diego as the USS Midway Museum. In November 1977 he earned the rank of chief petty officer. Dick Lemire continued working with various San Diego squadrons. In 1979, while serving on the USS Ranger, the ship stood war ready during the Iran hostage crisis. His continued career path included being a maintenance control officer and tours on the USS Tripoli and the infamous “TOP GUN” school at Miramar. TOP GUN was also a memorable experience. This is where he met his wife JJ and has been happily married for 34 years.

In 1990 while with the E-2C community, he deployed on the USS Ranger (again!). This time the conflict was “Operation Desert Storm.”  Dick retired in 1997 as Chief Warrant Officer 4.

After 30-years of service in the Navy, he became a High School math teacher for 14 years. This was a big switch. He stated high school teaching was more trying than being in the military. Some students are reluctant learners. Hats off to our teachers! Today he has been serving the local community for the past 8 years as a Volunteer Sheriff Patrol Officer. This service includes assistance for local Sheriff when needed, performing home checks, and checking on the local seniors. He also oversees “Project Life Saver.” A program that provides support for people who lose their way out in the community because they have Autism and dementia.

Dick always has a smile on his face. He does not sit still and watch. He acts.

Their local VFW in Ramona host Celebration of Life for veterans. One day, a dear friend, Dr. Mike, asked why people “celebrate life” after death. He suggested we need to celebrate life while the person is still living.