Retired Air Force Gen. Henry Viccellio Jr., former Air Force Materiel Command Commander, died Feb. 5. He was 85 years old.
Viccellio served as the second AFMC Commander from June 1995 to May 1997. During his time as commander, he helped establish AFMC's core mission focus areas of technology; system development; test and evaluation; system sustainment; and readiness. He initiated a Senior Leaders Materiel Course to educate depot leadership teams and played a key role in mobilizing AFMC and the 88th Air Base Wing in support of the Dayton Peace Accords.
The general was commissioned following graduation from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1962.
He attended pilot training at Webb Air Force Base, Texas and F-100 Combat Crew training at Luke AFB, Arizona. His initial assignment was as a F-100 Pilot at the 309th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Homestead AFB, Florida.
Viccellio accumulated over 3,300 hours in fighter aircraft, and he flew 235 combat missions in Southeast Asia. His primary aircraft included the F-100, A-1E, F-4D/E, F-16 and F-15.
Over the course of his career, he held a variety of assignments in flying and logistics fields, as well as command positions at the wing, center and Air Staff levels. Prior to taking command at AFMC, Viccellio served as commander, Air Education and Training Command.
Viccellio received several awards throughout his service career, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal; Distinguished Service Medal; Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster; Distinguished Flying Cross with oak leaf cluster; Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster; Air Medal with 11 oak leaf clusters; and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.
He retired from active duty military service in June 1997, after 35 years of service.
Funeral services will be held at the Cook Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Bainbridge Island, Washington. Burial services will take place at the United States Air Force Academy Cemetery.
Biography photo – Gen. Henry Viccellio Jr.