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Retired Air Force Colonel Missing in New Mexico

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. red-air-force-colonel-missing-in-new-mexico.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Thursday, March 5th 2026 at 3:26 GMT by Dayton Daily News
      Locales: New Mexico, Ohio, UNITED STATES

GALLUP, N.M. - March 5, 2026 - New Mexico law enforcement officials are intensifying their search for retired U.S. Air Force Colonel James D. Ramey, former commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, after he was last seen in Gallup, New Mexico. The search, initially initiated as a welfare check, has broadened as days pass without contact, raising concerns among family, former colleagues, and authorities.

Colonel Ramey, who retired from the Air Force in 2021, is a highly respected figure within the aerospace and defense community. His tenure as commander of the AFRL, from 2019 to 2021, was marked by significant advancements in several key technological areas, including hypersonic weapon systems, directed energy technologies, and advanced materials. During his leadership, the AFRL saw increased funding and collaborative partnerships with private sector innovators, solidifying its role as a critical component of national security.

Details surrounding the circumstances of Ramey's disappearance remain scarce. The Gallup Police Department (505-884-4537) is leading the investigation and has requested assistance from state and federal agencies. While authorities have refrained from speculating on potential causes, the extended period without contact is fueling anxieties. The location of Gallup, a city situated on the historic Route 66 and bordering the Navajo Nation, presents unique challenges to search efforts due to its vast terrain and remote areas.

Family members in the Dayton, Ohio area, where Ramey has strong ties, expressed deep worry and confirmed they haven't heard from him since his trip to New Mexico. They describe him as a dedicated professional and a loving family man who wouldn't willingly go without communicating. "He always stays in touch. This is completely out of character," stated a family spokesperson in a brief press conference held earlier today. "We're pleading with anyone who might have seen him, or has any information, to please come forward."

The Air Force Research Laboratory has also issued a statement acknowledging the situation. "We are deeply concerned about the well-being of Colonel Ramey and are fully cooperating with the authorities in their search efforts. Colonel Ramey was a dedicated leader and made significant contributions to the AFRL and to the nation's defense," the statement read. The AFRL is reportedly compiling information about Ramey's recent activities and contacts that might prove helpful to investigators.

Beyond his command of the AFRL, Colonel Ramey's career included numerous other leadership positions within the Air Force, consistently demonstrating a commitment to innovation and strategic planning. He was a vocal advocate for fostering a stronger relationship between the military and the private sector, believing that collaboration was crucial for maintaining technological superiority. He frequently spoke at industry conferences, emphasizing the importance of investing in research and development.

Several theories are circulating, ranging from a potential health emergency to a voluntary disconnection. However, law enforcement is urging the public to avoid spreading misinformation and to rely solely on official updates. The Navajo Nation, encompassing a large area surrounding Gallup, has been notified and is offering support to the search efforts. Navajo Nation police are assisting with searches of remote areas and providing cultural sensitivity during interactions with local communities.

The search has expanded to include ground and aerial searches, utilizing drones and specialized tracking dogs. Authorities are also reviewing surveillance footage from businesses and roadways in the Gallup area. They are appealing to anyone who may have seen Ramey or his vehicle - a silver 2023 Ford Explorer with Ohio license plates - to immediately contact the Gallup Police Department.

As the search continues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of Colonel James D. Ramey. The situation serves as a poignant reminder of the human element often overlooked in discussions about national security and the dedication of those who serve. The entire community, both in New Mexico and in Dayton, Ohio, anxiously awaits news of his safe return.