Robert Michael Hechinger

West Point, 1951

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Jose Andres "Andy" Chacon on August 29, 2004:

Robert Michael Hechinger Born December 5, 1926 - Died June 29 1988 Robert Michael "Bob" Hechinger was born in Chicago, Illinois on 5 December 1926 and was appointed to West Point from the 7th Congressional District. His West Point class-mates recall: "From that stormy, husky, brawling 'City of Big Shoulders,' Chicago, came Hechinger in 1947, ready to take part in the Spartan life of West Point. With a year of college under his belt, academics at first were rather easy, but proved later to be more difficult. Life at West Point was active to say the least, but ' Heck' survived it and is now ready for whatever comes in the future." During his cadet days Bob was an Acolyte all four years and was with the Spanish Club, and was a Cadet Sergeant his first class year. Upon graduation Bob went in the Air Force and after flying training reported to the 37th Bomb Squadron, 17th Bomb Wing in Korea; was decorated with the Distinguished Flying Cross for distinguished heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight and three Air Medals for meritorious achievement beyond that normally expected, while participating in aerial flight. In 1954 Bob was assigned to the 91st Strategic Reconnaissance Wing. Bob was discharged from the United States Air Force in 1966 as a Captain. Bob died in Columbus, Ohio on 29 June 1988. Mrs. Robert M. Hechinger (Alice) makes her home in Apex, North Carolina. Click to find out what makes Fly Boys tick Air Force Values ufa

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