More detail on this person: Thomas A. Fitzgerald, Capt. USN ret. passed away Saturday, February 26 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Massachusetts on March 25, 1936. Tom had a distinguished 30-year career as a Naval Aviator. Numerous flying, afloat, overseas and ashore assignments included USS Valley Forge, and he was the first Air Boss on the USS Tarawa. Ashore he was an instructor at the Naval War College in Newport Rhode Island and on the Live Oak staff at NATO in Mons, Belgium. Awards included Defense Superior Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, Commendation Medal, and Viet Nam Service Medal among others. Tom was a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend and teacher. He loved sailing the San Diego Bay. The echoes of "Tarah" shall forever be heard under the bridge. Also known as "Mr. Fitz", Tom found enjoyment as a substitute teacher at Carlsbad High School following his retirement. Tom is survived by his wife, Peggy; sister Marjorie, brother, Frank and 5 children, Kathleen, Colleen, Tom, Steve and Jim and 11 grandchildren, Robbie, Matt, Maggie, Matt, Shelbie, Jack, Emma, Emily, Gabe, Madison and Will who fondly remember him as their "papa. Arrangements are pending for final interment at Rosecrans National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please remember the American Cancer Society and Navy Relief Society. Tom Squadrons HS5, HT8, HC5, HSL31, Air Boss USS Tarawa and USS Valley Forge. He will be interred at Fort Rosecrans sometime in March. Cards are not necessary, just know he knew many people in the helo community and has served his country and the U.S. Navy well.
This information was last updated 05/18/2016
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Date posted on this site: 10/23/2024
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