QUINCY, Mass. — Dozens lined Hancock Street in Quincy Sunday, holding American flags to honor a war hero and Vietnam veteran well known in this community.
“A true American hero left us and there’s not too many like that,” said George Bouchard, a U.S. Army veteran.
The body of Retired Captain Richard Stratton was flown from Florida to Logan Airport, where Quincy officers met his casket on the tarmac to escort him back home to Quincy with a formal procession.
Police officers, veterans and even strangers all stood to salute his casket as it was brought to the funeral home.
Stratton was 93 years old.
“I did not know him, but I knew of his story,” said Anita Perkins, who helped hand out flags to people for the procession.
Capt. Stratton’s story is one for the books, as one of the longest serving POW’s from the Vietnam War.
“He was a fighter pilot in the Navy and did a few missions overseas and got shot down, got captured and was in prison for 7 and a half years, which is a long time. 2,200 days,” said Bouchard.
After coming home from the war, Captain Stratton continued his service in the Navy with positions across the country.
He ended his career as the Director of the Naval Academy Prep School in Newport, Rhode Island.
“One thing I remember about him is his humor, he had a lot of humor, very funny guy, but very strong,” said Bouchard.
He was a survivor, husband, father and Navy vet the city of Quincy will never forget.
“He was proud of Quincy, and he came back and shared with Quincy, he never forgot where he came from, and I’m standing out here in the cold with all these other people to say thank you Dick Stratton,” said Allan Yacubian, a Quincy resident.
The funeral for Captain Stratton will take place Saturday, February 1 at Sacred Heart Church in North Quincy at 11 AM, and he’ll be buried with full military honors at Mt. Wollaston cemetery.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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