Richard “Chief Mac” McLaughlin

Richard Patrick McLaughlin (USAF – CMSgt retired), born July 10th, 1927, passed away in Savannah, Georgia, on September 25th, 2016 after a long life of service to his country.

Richard spent 30 years of active military service starting with his under-age enlistment into the US Coast Guard in early 1943.  After serving in the North Atlantic during World War Two he re-enlisted in the Army Air Corp and became one of the original members of the new US Air Force in 1947. He then served in Korea and Japan during the Korean Conflict and was Sergeant Major of the 1st Special Operations Group (the “Air Commandos”) at Hurlburt Field during the Vietnam War. His career highlights included serving as the Command Sergeant Major of US Air Forces Europe and Sergeant Major of the Air Force Academy. Patricia Franklin McLaughlin, his wife of 60 years, shared his life’s adventure as they were assigned to such places as Japan, Turkey, Libya, Germany, and multiple stateside locations. Following his military career Richard devoted another 20 years to government service, primarily as an Inspector for the Environmental Protection Agency based out of Dallas, Texas.

A longtime resident of Arlington, Texas, Richard was an avid golfer, Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys fan, and fond of a good gin Martini from time to time. He was a life-long member of the American Legion and founding member of at least one post during his career. Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia, and is survived by his son, Michael McLaughlin (Monica) of Savannah, and daughters Lucinda McLaughlin of Alexandria, Virginia, and Mary Smith (Ralph) of McKinney, Texas.  Richard and Patricia also leave behind their grandchildren Morrin, Megan, and Molly McLaughlin of Savannah; and Shane and Erin Smith of McKinney.

Richard (and Patricia) will be interred together at Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard and Patricia’s names to the Air Force Enlisted Village (for surviving USAF Spouses) would be greatly appreciated. Please see   http://afev.us/  “Giving” for details.