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Decorated USAF Pilot Alfred Ramsey Dies at 81
Ramsey served in Vietnam, flew for presidents, and had a long career in aviation training after retiring from the military.
Feb. 4, 2026 at 2:55pm
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LtCol Alfred Joseph Ramsey, USAF (Ret.) of San Antonio, TX, passed away on January 30, 2026, at the age of 81. Ramsey had a distinguished 20-year career in the Air Force, serving as a pilot in Vietnam, flying missions for presidents and other VIPs, and later working in aviation safety and training. After retiring from the military, he continued his career in the private sector as a flight simulator instructor.
Why it matters
Ramsey's obituary highlights the service and sacrifice of American military pilots during the Vietnam War era, as well as the important role they played in supporting the presidency and other government leaders. His transition to a successful second career in aviation training also demonstrates how some veterans are able to apply their military skills and experience to civilian life.
The details
Ramsey flew the C-7A Caribou in and out of Cambodia and South Vietnam during the Vietnam War, conducting emergency airlift operations and delivering supplies to American troops. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his actions. After the war, Ramsey flew the C-5 Galaxy and later the Lockheed C-140 Jetstar, which he considered his favorite aircraft. He spent the final years of his military career working on safety and standards at Air Force headquarters.
- Ramsey was born on December 19, 1944 in Staten Island, NY.
- He graduated from Murphy High School in Mobile, AL in 1962.
- Ramsey married Mary Elizabeth Morgan on August 13, 1966.
- His first daughter, Kelley Elizabeth Ramsey, was born in 1968.
- His son, Steven Alfred Ramsey, was born in 1972.
- Ramsey retired from the USAF in July 1987 after 20 years of service.
- Ramsey married Kathleen Cernosek in 1998.
- Ramsey retired from FlightSafety International in 2013.
- Ramsey passed away on January 30, 2026 at the age of 81.
The players
Alfred Joseph Ramsey
A retired USAF lieutenant colonel who had a distinguished 20-year career as a pilot, including service in the Vietnam War, and later worked in aviation training.
Mary Elizabeth Morgan
Ramsey's first wife, whom he married in 1966.
Kathleen Cernosek
Ramsey's second wife, whom he married in 1998.
Henry Kissinger
A former U.S. Secretary of State whom Ramsey piloted during his time with the 89th Military Airlift Wing.
Rosalyn Carter
The former First Lady whom Ramsey piloted during his time with the 89th Military Airlift Wing.
What’s next
Ramsey will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
The takeaway
Ramsey's life story exemplifies the dedication and service of American military pilots, many of whom went on to have successful second careers in the aviation industry after retiring from the armed forces.
