Milton R. Pierce

Purple Heart Recipient Was WWII And Vietnam Veteran

Milton R. Pierce (Ret Lt Col USAF), 91, of Trumbull, died June 14, in the Watermark of 3030 Park, in Bridgeport.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Audrie Fay Pierce; and his second wife, Betty Cooper Pierce. Family, including his son, Jeffrey, and his wife, Karen Carey Pierce of Newtown; his daughter, Kathleen Pierce Blagys, and her husband, David, of the Black Rock section of Bridgeport; Betty’s daughters and son; five grandchildren; one great-grandson; two brothers; and several nieces and nephews will remember Mr Pierce.

Mr Pierce joined the United States Army Air Corps, learned to fly B-17 Bombers, and was stationed with the 8th Air Force based in England, where he flew 25 missions during World War II. A Purple Heart recipient, he became a career pilot for the United States Air Force and was stationed throughout the world, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. A proud veteran, he also served his country in Vietnam.

Mr Pierce received his master’s degree from Florida State University, and studied for his doctorate at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Enjoying his retirement, he took up golf and extensive travel. Mr Pierce moved to Trumbull to be closer to his family and was an active member of American Legion Post 207 at Middlebrook in Trumbull.

A committal service is scheduled for September 24, at 9 am, in Arlington National Cemetery, with full military honors. All other services are private.

Memorial contributions may be directed to The Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield, 2325 Burr Street, Fairfield CT 06824.

To sign an online guest register, e visitLeskoPolkefuneralhome.com.

The Newtown Bee        June 25, 2010