Robert Murry

Major Robert M. "Bob" Murray slipped the surly bonds of Earth one last time on Sunday, April 27, 2008, at 6:28 p.m. with his children by his side. He was born March 15, 1925, in Detroit, MI, to the late George and Irene Murray. He attended Southeastern H.S., and upon graduation, followed his life-long dream of flying. He became an Aviation Cadet in the U.S. Army Air Corps on April 8, 1943, and subsequently commissioned as a 2ndLt after earning his wings. He served as a Fighter Pilot during WWII in the Asia-Pacific Theater (China-Burma- India) where he flew over 100 missions in a variety of aircraft including the P-40, P-47, P-38 and P-51. He then served in the Korean War where he flew the F-86 Sabre. Major Murray was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses and three Air Medals. After his retirement from the U.S. Air Force in 1963, he sailed his 35-foot Trimaran, the TigLon, across the Atlantic Ocean from England to the Bahamas. He flew for Air America in Viet Nam from 1965-1975 where he was type rated in the C-45, C-46, C-47 and the DHC-4. He was shot at numerous times and shot down once. After he returned from Viet Nam, he continued to fly from Miami to Central and South America on the DC-3. During his flying career, he amassed nearly 20,000 hours in over 35 different type aircraft. Major Murray was a lifetime member of the Air Force Association, the National Rifle Association, Air America Association, The American Legion, Veteran's of Foreign Wars, the F-86 Sabre Pilot's Association and was a charter contributor to the American Air Museum in Duxford, England. He was also a member of the Pensacola Yacht Club and the Pensacola Beach Yacht Club. A dear friend recently honored him by having a Service Dog with Canine Companions for Independence named on his behalf. He is survived by his former wife, Gwen Bradley, of Titusville, FL; daughter, Kim Hamilton, of Gulf Breeze, FL; son LtCol Mark Murray, USMC (Ret), of Miami, FL; and two granddaughters, Carolyn Hamilton and Alex Adams. His brothers, George and Donald Murray, and sister, Mary Popovich, also survive him as well as nieces, nephews and many friends. Predeceasing Major Murray was his beloved Schnauzer, Otto. Funeral services for Major Murray will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, a contribution to a charity of your choice in his honor may be made. Arrangements entrusted to Rose Lawn Funeral Home of Gulf Breeze. "You may offer condolences, share memories and sign the guestbook at www.roselawn-fh.com"