pm3777
07-07-2003, 02:08
Major Gilbert Rusterholtz was listed in the Marine retired SEMPER FIDELIS Apr / June deceased Jan 03. Some should remember him as Avionics Officer in HMX-1, not sure of the years. He had an unusual career. I remeber in 1942 or early 43 he graduated from OTS-8 at Cherry PT NC from the Navigator/ gunnery school in the top of his class. At that time this resulted in promontion to MSgt. He was still 17 years old for another month, having enlisted at age 17. He was recognized as the youngest MSgt ever in the Marine Corps. He became a gunner on the 80mm cannon in the nose of the B-25 A/C and served in Pacific campaigns. He said when he fired that cannon the A/C actually seem to stop momentarily. He was later an LDO as I said , was Avionics Officer in HMX-1 (not sure of the dates). Last saw him at the HMX-1 reunion, his wife was a commercial multi engine pilot & he was a private pilot. I believe he was retired in VA. He was an outstanding Marine with an unusual background. Will surely miss him and as in many cases my old friends are rapidly departing. God speed old friend , see you later!! Paul