Rice entered the U.S. Air Force as a Second Lieutenant in 1952, and served until retirement as a Colonel in 1977. His career included assignments as Russian Linguist, Pilot, Assistant Air Attaché (...ver maisRice entered the U.S. Air Force as a Second Lieutenant in 1952, and served until retirement as a Colonel in 1977. His career included assignments as Russian Linguist, Pilot, Assistant Air Attaché (London, England), and various command and senior staff positions. He served 3-year tours in Misawa, Japan and London, England, and stateside tours at 17 locations in 10 different states. He served in combat in Viet Nam in 1967-1968, where he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary flight achievement during the Tet Offensive. His post-military careers include aerospace manufacturing, consulting and academia.ver menos