Richard “Gobble” Martin Eselgroth Jr., Captain USAF (Retired)
July 29, 1945 – May 01, 2014

Richard “Gobble” Martin Eselgroth, Jr. passed away in Glendale, AZ. on May 1, 2014 after struggling with cancer. He was born on July 29, 1954.

He is survived by his wife Sue.

The funeral service will be May 9, 2014 at 10:00 AM at St. Thomas Acquinas Catholic Church at 13720 W. Thomas Rd., Goodyear, AZ.

Richard M. Eselgroth , Jr.

AWARDS AND CITATIONS
Distinguished Flying Cross

Awarded for actions during the Peace Time Awards

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant Richard M. Eselgroth, Jr., United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Pararescue Recovery Specialist at the Toutle River, Washington from 31 October 1977 to 1 November 1977. During this period his expertise and decisive actions were responsible for the saving of two young lives and preventing the development of a hazard which would endanger both the rescue helicopter and its crew. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Eselgroth reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

General Orders: Citation Courtesy of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society – www.dfcsociety.org

Action Date: October 31 – November 1, 1977

Service: Air Force

Rank: Staff Sergeant