More detail on this person: A good man pulled pitch on this great "tarmac" of life June of 2011
and now soars above, joining many comrades who have passed before. Many of us did not know this as
it was not reported in the Taps section of the VHPA magazine. I would be remiss if I did not give
this man his due, pay my respects and let everyone know that he will be remembered. This I will try
in as humble a way as possible. This information was last updated 05/18/2016
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Date posted on this site:
01/11/2025
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One of the good fortunes in life for me was attending basic training and flight school with Robert
L. "Bob" Garrison. Bob was one of those rare individuals with whom you took an instant liking and
seems more like a brother you have known forever. We shared many difficult as well as good times but
my memories will be documented with only the good. One of my favorite stories, in fact, includes Bob
Garrison and I will pass it on through my journal notations so that someone may read and know a bit
about him and laugh along with us.
Bob served a tour in Viet Nam with the 1st Infantry Division where he earned the Distinguished
Flying Cross, Bronze Star and 37 Air Medals among others. After he left the Army he joined the
Florida National Guard for 2 years and then went on to become a pilot with the US Navy, earning many
awards before retiring in October 1991 as LCDR.
My last meeting with Bob and his lovely wife, Sheila, was at Ft Rucker in 1971 shortly before he
left the Army. Several times I passed Live Oak, Florida, his hometown, on my way down Interstate 75
and always wondered what old Bob was doing, calling him once to say, HI. We never met again,
something which saddens me beyond words and only June this year did I hear of his losing a long
battle with cancer. One year later I learn of his death! Oh! How I wish I had called him more
often. We sometimes don't realize how important it is to call our friends and acquaintances if for
no other reason than to say, "hello, was thinking about you, how are you?" One could suppose that we
don't think about how short time is for us or they won't remember me or any other of a thousand
reasons. Bobs' passing brought the reality back to me and although too late to tell him that I am
thinking of him, I intend to make an effort to call or visit as many of you remaining good guys as I
can. Thanks Bob for the memories and your friendship, we will all miss you.
From: William J "Bill" Ferguson