John Rogers Roberts , Colonel, USAF (Retired)
August 07, 1935 – June 10, 2010

John R. Roberts, 74, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force of 27 years, died June 10th 2010 of cancer at his home in Culpeper, VA.

He was born in Jefferson City, Mo in 1935, and graduated from Kansas State University, after which he was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Air Force in 1959. He completed flight training in 1962 and subsequently flew jet and transport aircraft, and was a helicopter flight instructor. He flew 258 helicopter combat missions in the Vietnam War in 1969-70.

On promotion to Colonel in 1980, he assumed the position of Wing Deputy Commander for Operations and then Deputy Commander for Maintenance at Hurlburt Field, FL. He managed logistics and maintenance of diverse helicopter and fixed wing aircraft.

In 1982, Colonel Roberts returned to the Pentagon where he served in senior staff positions, Air Force Headquarters. He was responsible for special operations worldwide, to include sensitive government interagency planning and operations, and managing highly classified priority Defense programs.

Following retirement from the Air Force, Colonel Roberts continued to serve his country as a civilian Department of Defense contractor and consultant, with major impact on special operations forces development, policy, training and employment.

Survivors include his wife of forty four year, Elizabeth, daughter Sarah Goyea of Pittsboro, NC, son John Daniel Roberts of Arlington, VA, niece Nancy Parker of Rowland, PA, and three grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at St. Stevens Episcopal Church, Saturday 19th June 2pm, with internment at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors on September 29, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society or charity of your choice would be welcome.

~ GUEST BOOK ~

Bob Parker •
My heart and prayers go out to you Liz, Sarah, Daniel and your families. John has been such a warm, compassionate and loving person. Nancy and I will always cherish his wonderful letters at Christmas. We were blessed!

Nancy Parker •
My heart goes out to you, aunt liz, and cousins & children. I am so sorry for your loss, but grateful to have been blessed with such a sweet, caring uncle. Sympathy from bob too.

Frank A. Liguori •
Although you may not know (us) my wife and I would like to offer our condolences to your family. Nancy Parker is our sister-in-law via marriage to Bob. Nancy has always spoken with great respect for her Uncle John the Colonel. I am also a veteran of the Viet Nam War. I have the highest regard for the men and women in the military, both past and present. Sincerely Mr. and Mrs. Frank A. Liguori.