Robert O. Balmer was born on January 8, 1947. His home of record is Oceanport, NJ. Bob had two sisters, Terry Lee and Stacy Lynn, and two brothers, Keith and Arthur. He graduated from Shore Regional High School in West Long Branch, NJ, in June 1964. His hobbies included fishing, swimming, football, boating, photography and camping. He received a prize at the Asbury Park Convention Hall for pictures that he painted.

On June 30, 1965, he enlisted in the US Marine Corps, 3rd Marine Division. He achieved the rank of Private First Class (PFC).

Balmer was killed on November 20, 1965, during a battle with the Viet Cong at Da Nang. He was awarded the Purple Heart Medal and Sharpshooter badge.

Beside his siblings, Robert was also survived by his parents, Herbert and Theresa Knott.

Bob enlisted in the Marine Corps so he could get his service over with early and marry his high school sweetheart, Trudy Hanson. He also had a job as a potential tugboat captain waiting for him after his enlistment was up, working for the Railroad tugs. His dad was Captain and couldn’t wait for him to join him. He enlisted right after high school graduation in order not to worry about being drafted and with his service behind him he could continue on with his life. He was so proud to be a Marine; his bravery and personal pride in himself and the Marine Corps is no doubt what killed him. He gave his all in battle and died a hero at the age of 18 years and 9 months. He is still missed even after all these years. His fiancée Trudy calls me from time to time to let me know she still loves him and carries him wherever she goes. She is now happily married and the mother of twin girls who are graduating from college.

Written by Theresa Knott, Mother

Sources: Theresa Knott (mother) and NJVVMF.
12/17/2024