I was Diane's first boss. She arrived at Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Vietnam, in July, 1969, at the same time as I. I was an AF captain and Chief of the In-Country Intelligence Analysis Branch. She was a 2Lt and fresh out of Intelligence School. She was not yet married, and her name was Diane O'Dell. 

Diane was one of the first women to enter the AF Intelligence career field, and she could not have been a better choice to represent women.  She did an outstanding job as II Corps and IV Corps analyst, and also did an outstanding job of fending off make approaches, as she was one of the few Caucasian women on the base.

I later saw her when she arrived at Offutt Air Force as a LtCol and the executive officer for the 544th Intelligence Exploitation Squadron. This was a highly important job, and I was pleased to see that she had it, as it reflected her capabilities and potential.

Diane at Ramstein Air Base, Germany in 1980, about to be promoted to lt. colonel. WIsh I had a better picture!

Tahoma National Cemetery

I will miss my dear friend, Diane.  She was an amazing mentor and always a champion of women; she believed there was nothing we couldn't do.  In fact, she believed in me before I did.  

Diane was a big lover of dogs and all my dogs loved her, especially my little Sophie.  They could tell she was a friend.  

She was the best co-worker, always sharing credit and giving everyone a chance to excel.  Most people have pictures of their family and pets on their desk....Diane, had pictures of her co-workers.  I will always remember how much fun we had on our many business trips.  

Diane was very brave and an inspiration to us all.  My condolences to her family.

Kelly Williams

DIANE KATHLEEN STRAWN

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VIETNAM

BRONZE STAR MEDAL

MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL

AIR FORCE COMMENDATION MEDAL

US AIR FORCE,

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