Harry C. Rogers III, USAF (Retired)
November 14, 1940 – May 27, 2016

ROGERS; Dr. Harry C. Rogers III, age 75, soldier, aviator, writer and educator passed away May 27, 2016.

He was born to Harry Campbell Rogers II and Ruth (McIntosh) Rogers on November 14, 1940. Harry was the eldest of six children.

He attended Robert E. Lee High School in Jacksonville, Florida while working part time to support the family. Harry took an early exit from high school to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps. After USMC basic he completed the High School GED which led to his being accepted into the Air Force Aviation Cadet program. After a year as an aviation cadet he was commissioned a 2/Lt. and rated an Air Force navigator. He served four years as a transport navigator before entering pilot training. Harry flew a variety of aircraft and without a doubt the most memorable being the HH-53 Jolly Green Giant helicopter. His extensive rescue work over North Vietnam earned Harry a reputation as an authority on rescue operations into hostile airspace for which he was highly decorated. Harry served the military for twenty-two years; during those years in addition to his military duties, he earned his high school diploma, acquired military ratings as pilot and navigator, and completed his BA and MA degrees.

After military retirement Harry continued his educational quest by acquiring a Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) degree. This was put to good use in his second career with the Texas Department of Education. Late in life Harry wrote I had a full and abundant life and cherished the freedoms with which we are fortunate to be blessed.

He is survived by his wife and best friend Susan. His friends remember him for his bigger than life presence, outgoing personality and boundless ambition.

A contribution to the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program would be an appreciated memorial.

Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Beaches Funeral Home, 1701 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250. (904) 249-2374.

~ GUEST BOOK ~

June 6, 2016
Condolences to Harry’s family.
~
William Ross, New York, NY

June 6, 2016
My condolences to the Roger’s family in this time of sorry and grief. May God give you continued Love and strength. As a cousin of mine, I have fond memories of days gone by. God Bless You.
~
Janet Tarrant, Youngtown, AZ

June 6, 2016 RIP
Dr. Harry Rogers III Eternal rest grant unto thee.
~
Jana Mercado, San Marcos, TX

June 6, 2016
Uncle Clarence, I and my family share in your grief. We are so sorry to hear about Harry. May God comfort you now and forever!! RIP Harry!! We will miss you 🙁
~
Jena McIntosh, Palm Coast, FL

June 6, 2016
May your memories of Harry bring you comfort and peace.
~
Margaret Gibbs Woods, Col, USAF Res, (ret) Lee High School, 1958

June 6, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with Harry’s family.
~
Carl Cochran, LHC 1958 Carl Cochran, Miami,