CWO4 Larry Don Patton, USA, Ret.

Larry Don Patton was born November 3, 1946 in Brownfield, Texas and passed away on February 3, 2011, at the age of 64, at Light House Hospice in Round Rock, Texas.

Larry proudly served his country in the United States Army for over twenty years, retiring with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. He was a pilot who flew cobras, hueys and other helicopters. Larry was a “check” pilot, one who certifies other pilots to fly a particular aircraft. Larry was a veteran of the Vietnam War.

Larry loved nature, particular fishing and birds. He loved song birds, to hand-feed Blue Birds, and his Purple Martins and Painted Buntings. He also enjoyed fishing trips with his son, Larry II.

Funeral services were held February 8 at the Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen, Texas. In attendance were the Patriot Guard Riders who formed a line of American flags at the entrance to welcome the arriving family and friends.

After the services, the Riders led the funeral procession to historic Maxdale Cemetery, south of Killeen. At the cemetery was the United States Army Honor Guard. Six members of the Guard removed the flag covered casket from the hearse and carried it, slowly, to the burial site, as the Patriot Guard Riders formed a line of American flags along the east side of the site.

After final prayers were said, the Honor Guard performed full military honors. The seven rifle detail fired three volleys of fire, representing Honor, Duty and Country. The Army bugler played taps. The American flag that covered the casket was carefully folded into the traditional triangle, and presented to Larry’s dear wife, Lori, on behalf of the President of the United States, the United States Army and a grateful nation, in thanks for his many years of dedicated service.

Larry Don Patton was then laid to rest next to his dear mother, Evelyn Patton. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, his son, his daughter, his step-son, five grand children, and many other dear family, friends and fellow veterans.

With thanks to Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home for biographical information.