Robert Letchworth
Robert Letchworth
Lt Col Robert Letchworth, USA (Ret) passed away on January 11, 2021 after a courageous battle with Parkinsonism with Covid 19 complications. Letchworth had been ill for 5 years from the effects of Agent Orange exposure in Vietnam. Lt Col Letchworth was born September 13, 1937 at Fortress Monroe hospital in Hampton, VA. His favorite claim to fame is that he was working in the very same building when he retired from the Army in 1980. He was a Hampton native and graduated from Hampton High School, Class of 1955. Letchworth began his long and distinguished military career by attending The United States Military Academy, Class of 1959. Lt Col Letchworth served as Aviation Officer, Research & Development Officer, Aeronautical Engineer, Ranger-Parachutist with the Army and Project Manager Development Program at NASA. Served two tours in Vietnam with 1st Cavalry, D Company, flying helicopters. Awarded Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross w/1 OLC, Bronze Star Medal w/2 OLC, Air Medal w/ "V" device, Air Medal-48 awards, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal w/2 OLC, Army Commendation Medal w/"V" device, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/4 Bronze Service Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/ Palm, Parachutist Badge, Master Army Aviator Badge, Ranger Tab, General Staff Identification Badge. After retiring from the Army he took part in many projects with NASA LaRC and in 1999 he retired from NASA totaling 43 years of federal service. Letchworth, known as Papa Bob to his grandchildren, great grandchildren and his family he was beloved by all. He is missed by all who knew him: classmates, church family and many friends.