<div>
If the same Destiny that let <em>David Ramsay </em>show greatness in his few years on earth had granted him "three-score and ten,” some eminent biographer would be writing his tribute many years from now. That biographer would be citing a long list of firsts and superlative accomplishments, and those who knew Dave and his unlimited abilities would not be surprised by any of his accomplishments. Those who knew him do not need to read any accounting of his attributes, for their lives have been greatly enriched by the sheer act of knowing him.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
This tribute, however, is intended to enrich those who were not so fortunate as to be part of the warmth and vitality that surrounded this man. Foremost in all things, Dave was a proud Black man. His early childhood and school activities and accomplishments as an enlisted man in the Air Force marked him as one who would go far. So well did he carry out his achievements that he was appointed to West Point in 1959.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Dave was an outstanding Cadet. His undertakings were marked with success—as an athlete, he contributed great measures of his time and energies to the school and as a Cadet leader, he exemplified the “whole-man" concept inculcated by the men who had passed before. He readily combined his singular personal standards with the precepts of his chosen profession.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
By far, Dave’s most outstanding record was compiled as an Air Force officer and pilot. In six short years, Dave distinguished himself by outstanding achievement as a student-pilot and, upon graduation at the top of his class, as an instructor of flying training. In spite of his overwhelming desire to be a combat pilot, Dave undertook the duties of the instructor-pilot with his characteristic zeal and skill. He was soon recognized as one of the best. He was repeatedly singled-out for honors and positions of greater responsibility.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
On 28 May 1966 he married Elizabeth Yancey and on 5 February 1969 their daughter Nicole was born. Adding to these personal joys, Dave finally received his long-awaited assignment to fly fighters in Vietnam and there, on 17 August 1970, Dave was killed flying a combat mission. At the time of his death, he had already been selected for subsequent assignment to the United States Air Force Thunderbirds’ Aerial Demonstration Team, an honor falling to only a handful of men.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
In his short lifetime, David Ramsay did what few have done with such apparent ease and meaning. He was an outstanding youth, a top-notch Cadet, a loving and loved husband and father, and one of the best officers and aviators in the Air Force. A life so lived is fully lived, whether it lasts “three-score and ten” or only thirty-one years.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
All of those who were touched by Dave’s life should cling to the warmth and fullness of that life. Soothe the bitterness of that life’s ending with the sure knowledge that Dave has given so much to his country and to his loved ones. "His leaving has taken much, but his having been here has given immeasurable more.’’</div>
<div>
</div>