“A Special Breed”

LTC Arthur W. Reed, USA (Ret.) SFA #D-6859L

27 DEC 1936 - 15 MAY 2026

Art Reed, 89, of Enid, OK, passed away after a determined battle with progressive supernuclear palsy and cancer. Art was born in Chicago, IL. He lived a life marked by military service, humor, storytelling and a love of teaching. He was preceded in death by his wife Judy.

Art enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1954 and took basic training at Camp Chaffee, AR. It was followed by Airborne School at Ft. Bragg, NC. He volunteered for Special Forces in 1955, and qualified in weapons and demolitions. In 1962, he was commissioned as a Field Artillery officer and also attended the SF Officer Course. He saw duty in Republic of Korea, Republic of Germany, and 2-years in Republic of Vietnam as a Detachment Commander of A-102A in the Ashau Valley. His final tour of duty was an assignment in the Pentagon.

Among his awards and decorations are the Combat Infantryman Badge, Legion of Merit, Bonze Star Medal, Soldier’s Medal, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal w/OLC, Master Parachutist Badge.

Art and Judy retired in Enid, OK and started a small business. Art would move on to teach mathematics at a local high school and as an adjunct professor at Phillips University.

Art was a member of the Special Forces Association - Chapter 75, San Diego, CA. He will be missed by his family, friends and the Special Forces brotherhood. He served his country well in times of peace and war. - De Oppresso Liber