Dear Golden Eagles,

It is my sad duty to inform you that Major General Victor A. Armstrong, USMC, (Ret.) made his last takeoff on May 20, 2010 in Morehead City, N.C. He is survived by his loving wife June and their two daughters Karen and Ann. Visitation will be at Brooks Funeral Home in Morehead City from 6-8 PM on Saturday, May 22nd. A Memorial Service will be held at All Saints Anglican Church on McCabe Road in Morehead City at 2 PM Sunday. Funeral and burial will be at Marine Corps Base Quantico, VA, at 10 AM Tuesday, May 25th.

General Armstrong joined the Marine Corps in July 1942, and earned his wings in March 1943. He was assigned to VMF-312 and flew in the South Pacific and Okinawa from Feb 1944-Jun 1945. He downed two Japanese aircraft during WWII action.

Following WWII, Vic became involved in the early testing and development of helicopters for Marine use. During the Korean conflict he served as XO of VMO-6 and Officer-In-Charge of helicopters. This was the first deployment of helos in combat for the Marine Corps, and Vic was instrumental in developing tactics for MedEvac, rescue of downed pilots in enemy territory, and command and control of helos. He directed and participated in earliest combat operations.

In 1960, in recognition of his unique expertise and piloting skills, he was assigned as the Senior Presidential helo pilot and served in this capacity for both Presidents Eisenhower and Kennedy.

General Armstrong had eight aviation commands during his illustrious career, including: CO, Marine Air Group 36 in Chu Lai, Vietnam; Commanding General, First Marine Brigade, MCAS Kaneohe, HI; Deputy Commanding General/ Chief of Staff, Fleet Marine Forces Pacific; and Commanding General, MCAS Cherry Point, N.C. He retired from Cherry Point in July 1978. A warrior and true pioneer, he was awarded two Silver Stars, four Distinguished Flying Crosses, five Legions of Merit with Combat “V”, and 12 Air Medals for heroism in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam.

Vic considered being a Golden Eagle one of the highlights of his life, as reaffirmed by his family. He was a strong leader, compassionate family man, and a respected comrade. We have lost another hero of WWII, and one who fought in three wars with gallantry. He will be missed.

Sadly,

W. A. Gureck, Pilot