Diane Evelyn Ordes

She was born in New York City on February 20, 1934, to Dolly and Edmond Ordes. She was graduated from New Dorp High School in Staten Island, New York, which, in her retirement, honored her for her military service and inspirational leadership. She earned a B.A. degree from Douglass College, New Jersey, and an M.A. from Our Lady of the Lake University, Texas.

Diane entered the Air Force in 1961. In her early assignments she worked in the personnel, recruiting, and education and training fields with duty in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Florida, and Thailand during the Vietnam War. She especially welcomed her demanding jobs as a commander. In 1970, she commanded a basic training squadron in Texas. In 1980, she was assigned as vice wing commander of Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., and in 1983, she assumed responsibility as base commander at the enormous Clark Air Base in the Philippines. Diane also served two tours of duty in the Pentagon.

She retired after twenty-seven years of military service. Her awards included the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.

In retirement, Diane did volunteer work with the Women's Equity Action League and the Women in Military Service for America Memorial.

She combined her love of travel and music by attending, with other admirers of opera star Kiri Te Kanawa, the concerts of that artist around the world. She loved animals and supported organizations that protected them.

Survivors include her brother - and friend - Dale Edmond Ordes of Ballston Spa, New York, and his long-time partner, Joyce Singer; a nephew, Edmond, of New York, and his children, Ethel, Edmond, Monica, and Simone; and her many friends throughout the United States and world. She befriended forever colleagues, neighbors, and classmates and generously and joyfully shared with them her adventures, time, and love.

Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery on a date to be determined. Details will be published later. Donations in memory of Diane may be made to your local animal shelter.