More detail on this person: OBITUARY Michael A. Bressler, aged 79, passed away peacefully on the morning of May 19, 2024, in Huntsville, Alabama. Born on April 10, 1945, at West Point, New York, Michael was a man of deep faith and unwavering patriotism. A proud graduate of the West Point Class of 1968, Michael dedicated himself to a distinguished military career. After Airborne and Ranger school, Michael was assigned to the 4th Armored Division in Germany, where he became the first in his West Point class to command a company, marking the beginning of a career committed to service. Michael subsequently went to flight school and deployed to Vietnam as a Huey gunship pilot. Michael was assigned to the famed 120th Aviation "Razorbacks" where he flew combat missions in support of US Marines and ARVN forces. Michael was awarded multiple commendations for his bravery in combat, including the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. Following Vietnam, Michael wrote extensively about military policy, including the need to reactivate the famous 10th Mountain Division, modern combat readiness, including primary group unit cohesion, topics he was later asked to testify about before the United States Congress. Michael had several meetings in Washington with the Secretary of the Army, the Chief of Staff of the Army, the Secretary of the Navy, and prominent Congressmen, about his writings. Michael was nominated by the Secretary of the Navy, Admiral Middendorf, to be Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense. Later, Michael was nominated, and then offered, the position of Assistant Secretary of the Army by the Secretary of the Army, John Marsh, and the Reagan Administration, a position he had to ultimately decline due to health reasons. Michael was instrumental in both the reactivation of the 10th Mountain Division in 1985 and the implementation of significant policy changes concerning U.S. military combat readiness, which are still in use to the present day. Michael was also a recognized international newspaper columnist, writing on defense and economic issues, and was the recipient of the 1982 West German Government's Journalism Award as one of nine distinguished American journalists. Over the years, Michael continued to serve his country in various capacities, including as the Director for the National Missile Defense Program and as a private military consultant, where he made significant contributions and innovations to both military weapons technology and policy. On June 5, 1968, the day he graduated from West Point and received his commission as a second lieutenant, Michael married his beloved wife, Kathleen, at the Holy Trinity chapel at West Point. Together, Michael and Kathleen raised two children, Michael and Alexandra, both attorneys. His family grew to include four cherished grandchildren: Sofia (14), Charlie (13), Michael (9), and Emma (9). Beyond his professional and family life, Michael was a devout Roman Catholic, finding profound joy in volunteering his time giving Communion to wounded and sick veterans in military hospitals. Michael's faith was a cornerstone of his existence, guiding him through life's challenges and triumphs. Michael will be remembered for his total commitment to God, family, and country _ a legacy that will endure through the lives he touched. He leaves behind a loving family, lifelong friends, and a nation grateful for his service. A private celebration of life will be held in Austin, Texas on an undetermined date, and a mass will be held in his honor at the Holy Trinity Chapel at West Point. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to UNICEF, a cause close to Michael's heart. Michael's life was a testament to duty, faith, and love, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
This information was last updated 07/08/2024
Please send additions or corrections to: HQ@vhpa.org VHPA Headquarters
Return to the Helicopter Pilot DAT name list
Return to VHPA web site
Date posted on this site: 08/31/2024
Copyright © 1998 - 2024 Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association