It's with a heavy heart that I have to inform the membership of Roger's passing. Roger passed away yesterday after a series of massive heart attacks. As most people know, Roger founded "Popasmoke" which brought together thousands of old friends and brothers in arms. Roger and I spoke just last week about the upcoming reunion. He had planned to attend because as he had said, "we don't know how many reunions we have left in us, and the importance of the friendships we made in combat. Roger was a good friend as he was to many of us, I'll miss our frequent talks and get together's. Fair winds and following sea's my Friend we'll hook up again on the other side.
Semper Fidelis,
J.D. Barber
As we grow older, we have to realize and accept that some of our friends will start to pass. It is always a shock when we learn of a friend passing. Rest in Peace Roger Thanks for getting us together
RIP Rog,
You did it all for us. Thanks for the memories and old friends remembered.
Semper Fidelis
Roger, Your contnued commitment to the troops will forever touch the hearts of us Old Jarheads. After a lot of pain and bitterness, your leadership brought value back to it all- and helped to deliver many of us from the depths of PTSD. Truly, when you stand in formation with Chesty at the pearly gates, there will be a long line of Marines waiting to give you a Hand Salute.
With a tear and a smile: Thanks for being there when we needed you most!
R.B. Lombardo
So sad Roger left us Marines from HMM-361. He will always be in my memories from back than. RIP Roger
Semper Fi...Chuck Lehneis
Roger was a Marines, Marine, who proudly stood docent duty at the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum at Miramar, devoting his time tirelessly regaling visitors on the merits of his beloved H-34. He was such an entertaining man, and a pleasure to be around. Rest In Peace, Roger
Colonel Vic Bianchini, USMC, Ret.
Chairman, Flying Leatherneck Historical Foundation