Robert W. Gotthardt was born on August 19, 1945, to Edwin and Dorothy Gotthardt. His home of record is Jersey City, NJ. He graduated from Henry Snyder High School in Jersey City in 1963.
Robert’s yearbook quote reads:
“Bob will always remember Mr. Taylor’s Econ. class…plans to attend college and then become a commercial airline pilot…enjoys flying and hunting…was usually found in class, trying.”
He got his private pilot license when he was 15 years old. His family owned the Entenmann-Gotthardt Florist on Ocean Avenue in Jersey City. Robert completed one year at Jersey City State College.
Robert was active in Redeemer Lutheran Church and was a member of Haines Chapter, Order of DeMolay, and Veterans of Foreign Wars in Keyport.
He enlisted in the US Army in March 1965. Following basic training at Fort Dix, he took helicopter training at Fort Wolters, TX, and Fort Rucker, AL. Gotthardt attained the rank of Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) and was assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division.
Gotthardt served for one year in Vietnam from April 1966 to April 1967, before being transferred to Germany. He quickly grew bored and requested a transfer back to Vietnam. During his second tour, he was killed in action when his helicopter was shot down.
Gotthardt was killed in action on May 12, 1968. The Richmond F. Routh Funeral Home handled the arrangements.
He received numerous awards and decorations including the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star, and the Air Medal with 40 clusters for gallantry in action.
Sources: Eugene De Crosta (friend), Tom Risholdt (friend), Bob Harris (friend), various websites and NJVVMF.
12/17/2024
