Ronald John Cornetta

Captain Ronald John Cornetta, United States Marine Corps, retired, passed away on October 4, 2026, at the age of 82. A decorated Vietnam veteran, father, and grandfather, Ronald will be remembered for his extraordinary courage, his sense of humor, and his enduring love for his country and family.

A graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Ronald volunteered for active duty during the Vietnam War and flew combat support missions as a Marine Corps helicopter pilot. On four separate occasions, he braved hazardous conditions and hostile fire to rescue wounded and stranded servicemen. His heroism saved lives, and his willingness to risk his own life for his fellow Marines remained one of the most profound expressions of his character.

Among those rescues was a mission in the mountains of Vietnam, where Ronald watched a helicopter crash behind enemy lines. He saved every man aboard the chopper. Many years later, after records of the mission were declassified and a fellow Marine located his name and ensured he was honored for his bravery.

His military honors include the Air Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Humanitarian Service Medal. He also earned Naval Aviator Wings, Navy and Marine Corps Parachute Wings, and Army Parachute Wings. Following his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps, he served three years as a lieutenant in the United States Coast Guard Reserve. He later volunteered at the World War II Museum in New Orleans, continuing to honor others' service and sacrifice.

Ronald is survived by his three daughters, Elisa “Lee” Reeves, Holland Gaines and husband, Bradley Gaines, and Mary Austin and husband, Clint Austin. Known as Pops, he is survived by eight grandchildren, Emma Reeves, Sara Reeves, Ava Gaines, Mya Gaines, Carter Reeves, Madison Austin, Ruby Reeves, and Gavin Austin.

He also leaves behind Aleida Bonilla and her daughters, Amanda and Elaine Aguilar, Brenda Fonseca, and Joseph Bonura, whose devoted care over the past 15 years grew into a family bond. They held a treasured place in Ronald’s life, sharing his days and caring for him with love, patience, and dignity. His daughters will forever be grateful for their kindness and the comfort and companionship they gave their father.

Following cremation, Ronald’s remains will be brought to Pensacola, Florida, where he will be laid to rest with military honors at Barrancas National Cemetery, alongside fellow veterans.

Ronald’s legacy lives on in the men he brought home, the family who loved him, and the memories held by those who knew him. His courage will be honored, his humor fondly remembered, and his presence deeply missed.

Semper Fi.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 27, 2026 at 11:30 AM at the Barrancas National Cemetery, 1 Cemetery Road, Pensacola, FL 32508. Phone: 850-453-4108 Barrancas National Cemetery - National Cemetery Administration

In Lieu of Flowers

In honor of his distinguished military service, extraordinary courage, and lifelong dedication to his fellow veterans, the family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or the Wounded Warrior Project. Both organizations carry forward his legacy of service, sacrifice, and compassion by supporting those who have bravely served our nation.

Memorial Donations can be made to the following non-profit organizations:

Disabled American Veterans (DAV) https://help.dav.org/page/53021/donate/1

Wounded Warrior Project https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate