Edward Gene Austin

Edward "Gene" Austin, 86, passed away on October 15, 2023, in Alexandria, Virginia. He was born on March 9, 1937, in Startex/Tucapau, South Carolina.

Gene lived every day of his life to the fullest. His vibrant personality and zest for life were unmatched. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Gene is survived by his loving daughter, Lana Roper (John), and his grandson, Tyler Roper. He is also survived by his sister, Cindy Dedick (Mark), and cousin, Janice Jones (Paul). He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Gary Austin (Ruby), and his mother, Marie C. Rifenbury.

Gene received his education from Carlisle Military School, in Bamburg, South Carolina; Clemson University; and Northern Colorado University. He always remained a true Clemson Tiger!

Gene was destined to become a fighter pilot. One such instance was early on in his childhood when he looked up at a plane and told his father, "One day, I'm going to fly one of those (pointing to an airplane in the sky)." He retired from the United States Air Force after 28 years. Some of his accomplishments were:

-Advisor to Royal Saudi Air Force (1980’s)

-Over 2600 hours on F-5B/E/F; F-4C/D/E; T-38; A-37B; C-47; 0-1; 0-2A; T-37; and T-41

-528 Combat Flying Hours in South Vietnam, Approximately 240 missions

-Silver Star (2 awards)

-Bronze Star with “V” Device

-Defense Meritorious Service Medal

-Meritorious Service Medal (2 awards)

-Air Medal (11 awards)

-Air Force Commendation Medal

-Purple Heart

-Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm

-Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star

In his second career, he worked in the military defense industry prior to becoming an international marketing consultant. He was honored to work on the Strategic Defense Initiative, “Star Wars,” among other things. Later on in his career, he was happy to work with other governments to assist in fulfilling their needs for the betterment of their community.

He was very proud of the fact he had visited 80 countries over his life and had plenty of stories. The majority of his time he spent in the Middle East and Asia. From 1993 until recent years, he lived full time in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

A memorial service to honor Gene's life will be held at Arlington National Cemetery in the future. Details regarding the service will be announced at a later date.

Gene Austin will be remembered for his unwavering spirit, his love for his family, and his commitment to serving his country. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.