Ronald Walter Dering

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Ronald Walter Dering

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Ronald Walter Dering, was born on November 17, 1939 in Coatesville, PA. He graduated in 1957 from S. Horace Scott High School. He enlisted in the United States Navy on July 6, 1957 and completed basic training at Bainbridge. MD. Following a short tour at Earle, NJ, he attended Submarine School at New London, CT. He served on the USS Robin (SS-407) 1958-1960, USS Sequoia (AG-23) 1961-1962 and USS James Madison (SSBN-627) 1963-1968. In 1968, he volunteered for duty in Vietnam and following PBR School at Vallejo, CA. He reported to RIVDIV 593 in late March 1969. He was boat captain of PBR 842 for his full year with Iron Butterfly and made over 300 combat patrols.
Ron was awarded five Bronze Stars for bravery in combat and among his many other awards was the Army Commendation Medal w/ Combat Valor for heroism. Ron was also; one of six men from Iron Butterfly awarded the RVN Navy Gallantry Cross for action in September of 1969.
In March of 1970 he left Vietnam and reported to the USS Puffer (SS-652) where he served until April 1972. A shore tour at fleet AWS School and FTG, San Diego until December of 1974. He last tour of duty was USS Fort Fisher (LSD-40). He transferred to fleet reserve October 1, 1976. He passed away on February 6, 1998.
Ron worked for San Diego fire system until his battle with cancer forced him to retire in 1997. Ron died on February 6, 1998 at the age of 58. Ron was a true shipmate, one that could be depended on in a firefight or any type of fight.
Ron Dering left behind a family and many close friends. A son, three brothers, and four sisters survive him. Several members of Ron's family are in touch with members of RIVDIV 593. He was a Life Plus member of Gamewardens, West Coast chapter and very active in several chapter activities including PBR restoration and maintenance. He is missed by all.
Obituary supplied by Chuck Coleman, COL (Ret), US Army
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