.png)
TACAMO Fallen Walt Scarborough: VQ-3 & VQ-4
July 20, 1950 - November 22, 2024
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Walter ‘Big Sid’ Douglas Scarborough, who died peacefully on November 22, 2024, at 12:52 PM in Abilene, Texas. He was 74 years old.
Walt, a devoted husband to Betty for 53 years, had been in and out of the hospital in recent weeks, battling a long and difficult struggle with cancer. On October 28, he entered the hospital, spending their anniversary there, and later began rehabilitation in an effort to regain his strength. After being released to return home, Walt spent just 23 hours with his family before his condition worsened. Despite his best efforts to fight, he passed away quietly on the afternoon of November 22.
Walt was born on July 20, 1950, in Florida, and served his country honorably in the United States Navy for twenty years. He began his naval career with VT-10 as a plane captain and went on to serve with several distinguished squadrons, including VXE-6, VC-3, VQ-3, and finally VQ-4. Walt’s dedication to his work and his family was unwavering, and he will be remembered as a man of strength and resilience.
Walter leaves behind his loving wife, Betty, one daughter, and four grandchildren. He will be cremated, and his final resting place will be at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery just outside of Abilene.
In keeping with Betty's wishes, no funeral or memorial services will be held at this time. The family kindly requests privacy during this time of mourning.
Walt in Western Afghanistan
The TACAMO Community extends its sympathy and prayer for peace to Walt's family and friends during this time of the passing.
A Great man! Walt taught me so much when we flew Hercs.
Rest in Peace Brother!
You are missed!
John “Pappy” Pappendick
So sorry to hear the news. Walt and I go all the way back to VQ-3 (1981-1984). We were in NATOPS together. The trips back and forth to Simulator Training will never be forgotten. He really knew the C-130. All those Flight Engineers were terrific, but “Big Sid” was Special. We’ll miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. John Phillips
RIP Walt. A TACAMO legend that passed on that 'can do attitude' required to complete the mission to all the FE trainees he mentored. Thank you for setting the standard.
Walt wow. Loved that guy. A TACAMO Warfighter who knew the mission and knew the Airplane. Loved how he ran the crew doing maintenance on the road and operations in the air.
Walt was the real deal. He could do it all. As I recall flying with Walt just seems like we flew a lot of night flights together. In the quiet on the night you tell a lot of personal stories and Walt was a master of that. Loved to talk about his family.
Betty your family are in my thoughts and prayers. TACAMO lost a warfighter , the world lost a a great man and all of us who were honored to fly and serve with your husband…
Enjoyed flying with him in VQ3.
Rest in peace.