Boston - Governor Maura T. Healey has issued a citation in memory of Captain Richard A. Stratton, a Vietnam War Navy veteran from Quincy who passed away last week at the age of 93. Assistant Secretary of Engagement and Outreach Cory Ahonen will deliver the citation, as well as an interment flag that Governor Healey flew over the State House this week, to Captain Stratton’s family at his wake today.

“It is an honor to deliver this citation and interment flag to the family of Captain Stratton in recognition of his remarkable life and service to our nation. A proud Quincy native, Captain Stratton valiantly served in the Vietnam War and persisted through more than six years of captivity,” said Governor Maura Healey. “His service didn’t end there – he came home to help other soldiers and civilians suffering from trauma and addiction as a social worker. We are in awe of his bravery, his resilience, and his deep compassion for others. He is a true American hero, and our deepest condolences go out to his loved ones and community.”

“As the proud daughter of a Navy veteran, I’ve been deeply moved by Captain Stratton’s story. I think every military family recognizes the incredible commitment to service and love for others that Captain Stratton displayed throughout his life, because it’s what motivates every one of our veterans,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “I’m also grateful for the leadership of Mayor Koch and the Quincy community to establish a monument that honors Captain Stratton and his fellow Vietnam War veterans.”

“Captain Stratton dedicated his life to service, first through his distinguished military career and later as a source of strength for fellow veterans facing PTSD and substance use challenges,” said Veterans Secretary Jon Santiago. “His story is an example of how veterans continue to serve long after their time in uniform. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his dedication and compassion.”

“Captain Stratton was a true American hero in every sense of the word. His sacrifice, perseverance, and the honor and dignity in which he lived his entire life set an extraordinary example,” said Quincy Mayor Thomas P. Koch. “The City of Quincy and our entire Commonwealth have a proud tradition of men and women who’ve answered the call to serve – and so many of them stand on the shoulders of people like Captain Stratton. I’m grateful to Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll for honoring Captain Stratton’s life and legacy in this most dignified and appropriate way.” 

Captain Richard A. Stratton, USN, Ret. grew up in Quincy and attended the public schools. He served in the Massachusetts Army National Guard, spent years at the Catholic Seminary of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, and eventually graduated from Georgetown University. He joined the United States Navy Aviation Officer Candidate Program and was designated a Naval Aviator in 1957, while also being assigned to Standford University and earning a master's degree in international relations. He was deployed to Southeast Asia with CVW-19 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga in 1966 until he was shot down and forced to eject over North Vietnam. He was taken as a Prisoner of War on January 5, 1967 and spent 2,251 days in captivity, enduring horrific and inhumane treatment. He was released during Operation Homecoming on March 4, 1973 and later awarded the Silver Star for Valor, Purple Heart, and P.O.W. medal among many other military decorations and awards. When he returned home, he continued to hold various positions and commands across the country. After his retirement from the Navy, he practiced as a clinical social worker, specializing in psychological trauma and addictions, served as President of NAM-POWs, and was Chairman of the Department of Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee on Prisoners of War. He is survived by his wife Alice, three sons, six granddaughters, and several nieces and nephews. 

The Governor’s citation reads:

"In recognition of the life and legacy of Captain Richard A. Stratton, United States Navy, Ret. We commend him for his service in the Massachusetts National Guard and later United States Navy where he deployed to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. On January 5, 1967, Captain Stratton was taken captive and spent 2,251 days as a Prisoner of War. Captain Stratton was released during Operation Homecoming on March 4, 1973. He was awarded the Silver Star for Valor, Purple Heart, and P.O.W. medal among many other military decorations and awards. The Commonwealth will never forget his impact on the people of Massachusetts and his country."