CDR Russell G. Gilmore, USN (Ret), Naval Aviator and strong Saratoga Museum supporter, passed away suddenly at his winter residence in Florida on March 22. Russ, an East Greenwich resident since 1965, served in the Navy from 1944 to 1969.

During his flying career he landed on 21 different carriers; he also served in USS Wasp for two years and USS Lake Champlain for one year. He flew F8F Bearcats with fighter squadron VF-19, and later transitioned to jets on assignment with VX-2.

After his retirement from the Navy Russ started a second career in education, working as a career counselor at the University of Rhode Island from 1970 to 1985.

Shortly after learning of the effort to create the Air, Land & Sea Heritage and Technology Park at the former Quonset Point Naval Air Station, featuring USS Saratoga as the centerpiece, Russ called to volunteer his services. We welcomed him as one of the first members of our Advisory Council, and his unflagging support and encouragement helped us through the tough early days of our uphill campaign.

CDR Gilmore was also an active member of the Quonset Air Museum and the Retired Officers Association. He is survived by his wife of more than 53 years (Marjorie), two daughters and two sons. The USS Saratoga Museum Foundation, Inc. is contemplating an appropriate and permanent memorial to CDR Gilmore, and we welcome any ideas or support you may have.

   -- Frank Lennon

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Last Updated:
9/29/01