Clifford Dale Warfield

October 14, 1929 – June 16, 2025

It is with deep respect that we announce the passing of Colonel Clifford Dale Warfield, USMC (Ret), a decorated Marine aviator, caring father, and proud American patriot. Col. Warfield passed away peacefully on June 16, 2025. He was 95 years old.

Born in Los Angeles, California, on October 14, 1929, Clifford was adopted by Percy and Neva Warfield and raised in Frankfort, South Dakota alongside his brother Don. Living during the Dust Bowl and Great Depression left a lasting impression. From a young age, Cliff embodied a sense of discipline, service, and leadership.

Cliff began his journey of service by joining the Marine Corps Reserve in 1948. After graduating from Huron College in 1952 with degrees in history and sociology, Cliff became an educator, and coached baseball and basketball at Frankfort High School prior to his active-duty career. Cliff later earned his Master’s Degree in Public Administration from George Washington University in 1962.

Cliff attended Officers Candidate School and became a Naval Aviator in October 1952. His career in the United States Marine Corps spanned over 30 years, marked by a deep commitment to his fellow Marines. During his distinguished military service, Col. Warfield flew the A-4 Skyhawk, a single-piloted jet aircraft. In 1960, while serving with VMA-225 on the aircraft carrier USS Essex, Cliff helped coordinate a Naval Aviation record when every pilot in his squadron became a "Centurion"—achieving 100 arrested landings during a single deployment on the same day

Cliff completed a 13-month combat tour in Chu Lai, Vietnam with the VMAs 311 "TomCats." He flew 299 combat missions—his valor earned him numerous commendations, including the Legion of Merit with Combat "V", two Distinguished Flying Crosses, 24 Air Medals, the Meritorious Service Medal with gold star, Navy Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, and a Numeral 21, symbolizing his exceptional number of combat sorties.

Cliff attended Naval War College in July 1975 and taught there for two years. He retired from military service in 1983 and worked as a civilian before fully retiring. During retirement, Cliff enjoyed playing tennis while spending time with his family and friends. He was active in the Golden Racquets Club and received the Tennis Association President's Award for his donations of time to the organization.

Cliff was a strong supporter of veterans’ causes. Cliff was involved in the National Military Family Association (NMFA), serving on the Finance and Planning Committees and the Government Relations Advisory. He served as the NMFA treasurer and on the Board of Governors. In 2012, Cliff received the National Military Family Association Presidential Award.

Cliff’s faith was important to him, serving as an active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. He was on the church council, serving on the finance committee and as President of the congregation for multiple years.

Until 91, Cliff continued to play on Senior Tennis Leagues, attended classes at the Osher Learning Institute, and actively monitored his stock portfolio. He will be remembered for his steadfast devotion to God, country, Corps, and family, and the respect he earned from all who worked with him.

Cliff was married to Lois Borkowski Warfield, with whom he raised three children: Valorie Warfield Philips (Tim Philips), Vickie Warfield Thompson (David Thompson), and David Warfield (Rita DiLucia). In later years, his loyal partner was Maureen Forcier, who brought joy and companionship to his life.

Cliff was a proud grandfather to Elaina, Weston, Emmalee, Brian, and Cassidy, and a cherished great-grandfather to Connor, Brenna, Nolan, Emslee, Norah, Adelyn, Brynlee, and Levi. His family was important to him and he took great pride in their accomplishments and growth.

A celebration of Cliff Warfield's life will be held in Falls Church, VA. A funeral service will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Falls Church on Monday, Oct. 13th at 2:00 p.m. Interment with full military honors will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 14th at 9:00 a.m. at Arlington Cemetery. A Real ID or passport is required for admittance to Arlington Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the National Military Family Association (https://www.militaryfamily.org/donate-now/), in honor of his lifelong service to his country and fellow veterans. Semper Fi, Colonel Warfield!

May Clifford Dale Warfield rest in eternal peace, having lived a life of purpose, service, and honor. Semper Fi, Col. Warfield!