Richard McSpadden obituary

Former commander of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Richard McSpadden passed away on October 1, 2023. He was aged 63.

Since the news of his death was announced, tributes have poured in from across the world for the AOPA Air Safety Institute vice president.

Richard is survived by his wife, Judy, and two children.

About Richard McSpadden

Richard G. McSpadden Jr. was an air pilot, flight trainer, who formerly served as commander of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

Richard was born in Panama City, Florida, and began flying aircrafts as a teenager, having been inspired by his father who was a pilot.

At the time, his family owned a Piper Super Cub, so his father practically taught him how to fly.

Richard bagged a degree in economics from the University of Georgia and a master’s degree in Public Administration from Troy University. Afterwards, he attended the U.S. Air Force Air War College.

Richard served in the United States Air Force for two decades and rose to become a commander and flight leader of its Thunderbirds demonstration team.

He also rose to become the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Air Safety Institute (ASI) executive director, and later its senior vice-president.