Ron Bliss was born on March 22, 1943, in Buckeye, Arizona. He entered the U.S. Air Force Academy in June 1960, and graduated with a commission as a 2d Lt in the U.S. Air Force on June 3, 1964. Lt Bliss next completed pilot training and was awarded his pilot wings at Reese AFB, Texas, in October 1965, followed by F-105 Thunderchief Combat Crew Training from October 1965 to May 1966. His first assignment was as an F-105 pilot with the 357th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Takhli Royal Thai AFB, Thailand, from June 1966 until he was forced to eject over North Vietnam and was taken as a Prisoner of War on September 4, 1966. After spending 2,374 days in captivity, Capt Bliss was released during Operation Homecoming on March 4, 1973. He was briefly hospitalized to recover from his injuries at Lackland AFB, Texas, and then returned to flying status as a T-38 Talon instructor pilot with the 465th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron at Holloman AFB, New Mexico, from September 1973 until he left active duty on June 3, 1974. After leaving the Air Force, Ron completed Law School and worked as a lawyer for many years. He Flew West on February 8, 2005, and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

His 1st (of 2) Silver Star Citation reads:

First Lieutenant Ronald G. Bliss distinguished himself by gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force in Southeast Asia on 4 September 1966. On that date, Lieutenant Bliss piloted an F-105 Thunderchief fighter-bomber through intense anti-aircraft fire to strike a strategic petroleum storage facility within North Vietnam. The dauntless courage and intrepidity exhibited deep within hostile territory were exceptionally conspicuous. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Bliss has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.