Richard "Dick" Dietz, ETCM(SS)
submitted by Ed Ruth LCDR, USN (ret.)Mendel Rivers in 1971. He was the LPO of Reactor Controls Division and the best I have ever known. I was a cocky ET1(SS) at the time but quickly realized that Dick knew more than I would ever hope to about both his rating and people (the CO and XO routinely sought his advice on both).The family and many friends of Richard "Dick" Dietz, ETCM(SS) mourn his passing on May 10, 2000.
I met Dick when I reported to the new construction crew for USS L.
What small measure of success I later had in my career was due in large part to the example Dick set and the knowledge I gained from him - including how to respect and be respected. We became friends on the Rivers and I missed him when he retired.
It was only two months ago that I got back in touch with Dick via E-mail and learned he lived only a few hours away. I had intended to go see him but will now not have that pleasure.
Dick, we will all miss you.
[Read another tribute to Dick]
This section of submarinesailor.com is reserved, and dedicated to, tributes to fellow shipmates on Eternal Patrol. If you wish to make a tribute, please email it our way (please include your name, boat and rate as applicable).