His cadet life began when he arrived at West Point and was placed in Company M of the Second Regiment, better known as M-2. His destiny was to be part of that company with the Class of 1954 for all four years at the Academy. That particular company from the Class of ’54 is a tightly knit group and has held many reunions (and mini-reunions) in addition to the major class gatherings for any year of special significance. There is always a plan in the making for the M-2 men, wives, and widows to meet. High attendance is never a problem. Ron was always an active participant in the support of any such gathering. He was part of the spirit of camaraderie that followed graduation throughout the years.

While at the Academy, Cadet Gamble quickly adjusted to the rigors demanded of every cadet in both academics and military discipline. He was active in the Art Club, Camera Club, and the Russian Club. During cow year, Ron distinguished himself by being promoted to corporal. He displayed such leadership qualities throughout his life.

When the Military Academy was ordered to integrate the Corps in 1951, Ron Gamble and his roommate Pat Dyer were plebes. At that time there were four black Second Regiment classmates living together apart from the other cadets. Ron and Pat volunteered to take one of the four—Hugh Robinson—as a roommate. Thanks partially to that action, Hugh was warmly welcomed and became an integral part of M-2, Class of ’54. Ron, Pat, and Hugh were roommates for the remainder of their time as cadets and always kept in touch throughout their later careers.

Ron chose to go to the Air Force at graduation, and after the required extensive pilot training he reported to his initial assignment in the granite state—New Hampshire. He became part of a very significant group—the Strategic Air Command, better known as SAC. He carried out his duties at Pease Air Force Base in Portsmouth, NH, piloting the B-47 bomber for SAC, an important plane to the military in post World War II era. It was introduced and entered into service in 1951 and was the mainstay of SAC’s bomber strength during the 1950s and early 1960s. Ron well understood the important role that this plane played as a deterrent to possible enemies at that moment in history. He carried out his assignments with diligence and was an integral part of the mission that the B-47 assumed. This included adapting to a number of other missions: photo reconnaissance, electronic intelligence, and weather-related probes.

At Pease Air Force Base, Ron met and married his beloved wife Martha Jewett Sheerin. After this initial posting, Ron resigned his commission and opted for the civilian world. Again his natural leadership qualities marked him for sure success. He spent many years at GTE—General Telephone and Electronics. Never satisfied with the status quo, he went back to school and earned an MBA degree in 1967 to sharpen his business vision. He applied his skills to his challenges at GTE and earned their appreciation and respect. Ron retired as Vice-President of Military Marketing.

The Marlborough Country Club was the source of great enjoyment for this classmate. His association with the membership and the wonders of the golf game were major reasons for this choice. It was here that Ron and his beloved wife Martha spent many happy times. Even in his final illness he looked forward to a round of golf with friends, all of whom were always ready to enjoy Ron’s special presence. He died in Wayland, MA, and was buried in Mt. Adnah Civil War

Cemetery near Gloucester, MA. In addition to Martha, Ron is survived by their son, Ronald Gamble Jr., a daughter, Laura Gamble Warchol, and a grandchild, Julie Gamble Warchol.

Ron was a man for all seasons and a good friend. Strength of character was a given and he lived the ideals of the Corps of Cadets. The M-2 motto—“Above the Rest”—stands tall and proud in any reference to Ron Gamble. He always chose the harder right without hesitation and emboldened those around him to do the same.

Beloved husband, devoted family man, and companymate. Grip Hands. Be Thou At Peace.