Remembering Radarman Second Class Ronald Arthur Thibodeau

Radarman Second Class (RD2) Ronald Arthur Thibodeau was born on January 26, 1946, in Manchester, New Hampshire, to parents Art and Blanch Thibodeau. He grew up with his siblings, Donald and Christine, and later moved to California, where he graduated from La Serna High School in Whittier.

On January 7, 1966, Ron enlisted in the United States Navy, beginning his training at NTC San Diego. After completing Radarman “A” School at Treasure Island, he was assigned to the USS Frank E. Evans (DD-754) on March 16, 1967, as part of the OI Division in the Combat Information Center (CIC).

Ron quickly advanced in rank, earning Radarman Third Class (RD3) and later Radarman Second Class (RD2). During this time, he married Lynn Ogilvie, and they had a son, Timothy Wendler.

On June 3, 1969, during Operation Sea Spirit, RD2 Thibodeau was on duty in the CIC when the Frank E. Evans collided with HMAS Melbourne. The impact split the destroyer in two, and the forward section sank within minutes. Ron was among the 74 sailors lost at sea.

Ron was known for his love of card games, especially Pinochle, and his dedication to service. Though his life was tragically cut short, his memory lives on through the efforts of the USS Frank E. Evans Association, which continues to fight for recognition of the “Lost 74.”

Lest We Forget.