Storke Funeral Home Obituaries

John A. Reidy, Jr., (“Jack”) (Colonel, USAF, Ret.) passed away on July 18, 2023, at his home in McLean, VA. He was a 1962 engineering graduate of Notre Dame University, where he played football and served in the Air Force ROTC.

During his 24-year military career, Jack commanded an Italian-NATO Air Force munitions detachment. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam and subsequently commanded a base in Taegu, South Korea. Already a highly decorated officer, Jack then served in the office of the Secretary of Defense as Chief of the USAF Vehicle and Equipment Division, overseeing the $3.9 billion motor vehicle program. He succeeded in saving millions of taxpayer dollars and maintaining his program’s effectiveness despite drastic budget cuts.

Considered, as one commanding officer put it, “the most knowledgeable and influential vehicle manager in the DoD,” he was highly sought after as a spokesman by federal and industry groups. “Each aspect of this dynamic leader is the tops,” praised another high-ranking officer.

In 1986, Jack’s talents and reputation were put to further use when he left the Air Force to head Defense Products Marketing, a consulting firm which facilitated federal/military acquisitions of top-quality vehicle-related equipment to support troops in the field. In recognition of his service to both the military and industry, Jack was awarded a coveted “superior service” commendation and medal by the National Defense Industrial Association.

A third chapter in Jack’s life began in 2011, when he left DPM to travel the world. He and his wife, Anita, steeped themselves in the history and culture of Russia, the Far East, Europe, the South Pacific, the Mideast, Africa, Central America, and Australia. He remained a lifelong fan of Air Force and Notre Dame football, and he enjoyed reading books about individuals who had stepped up to serve their country.

Jack’s generous spirit, modesty, and sunny disposition won him the respect and devotion of colleagues, employees, the many young people he mentored, and a host of other friends. He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Anita Reidy.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 7, at 10:45, at the Old Post Chapel of Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fisher House at fisherhouse.org/donate. Online condolences may be left at storkefuneralhome.com.