To All,
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Pararescuemen CMSgt. Clarence R Boles Jr. on June 29, 2020 at the age of 91. Clarence entered the service in October,1952 and graduated from PJ class 17. He retired in March,1973. Chief had several assignments throughout his career to include 76th AARS Hickam AFB, Hawaii, the 55th AARS Eglin AFB, Florida and retiring from HQ
AARS, Scott AFB, Illinois.
Chief participated in several lifesaving missions over his career. One in particular out of the 76th AARS in HI to the SS Oriental Pearl to evacuate a American civilian who was in a coma. This was the first save with the Jolly Greens at this squadron and was the longest mission at that time requiring three refueling from the C130s.
Clarence received numerous awards and decorations to include the Purple Heart. While on a Stand/Eval visit to Udorn AFB, Thailand in 1967, he flew a HH-3E sortie that came under hostile fire. The aircraft took several rounds of small arms fire, one that hit the handle of the Kabar knife I had loaned him. The round swirled around the handle and lodged in his ass. After landing, PJ Dave Sliger, I and others accompanied
him to the ER, where under our supervision and jovial commentary, the Doc removed the round. We then promptly escorted our crutches- baring wounded warrior to the NCO Club for some much needed medicinal libations. We drank the pain away with Clarence apologizing continually for getting shot. Hence, the title “Apologetic Boles.” Clarence was highly thought of and loved by all. He will be missed.
After retirement Clarence returned to his home state of Texas where he pursued his degree at Texas A&M. Then went to Oklahoma City to work as a foreman for a major gas and oil company until retiring and moving back to Waco, TX to be near his daughters.
Clarence was preceded in death by Barbara, his first wife, and Brenda, his second wife. He is survived by:
His oldest child, Elizabeth Boles Sander, husband Hans Sander, children Andrew and Clair Sander.
His second daughter, Brenda Boles Rieger, husband Ron Rieger, children Christopher and Matthew Rieger.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later Date.
Condolences can be mailed to his daughter: Brenda Boles Rieger, 1125 Aberdeen Road, Waco, TX 76712. Her email: bbrieger4@aol.com.
Some of us did not know Clarence or just met him in passing with a hand shake. Those that worked with and knew him hold him in high regard as a warrior PJ, who now joins the squadron of PJ Rescue Angels who have made their final jump.
When one of our PJ brothers passes he takes a piece of our hearts with him. It would be immensely appreciated if those who have stories would write or call Brenda at 254-715-2729 with your remembrances.
John Pighini
Vice President, PJ Assn.
