Robert Francis "Buck" Rogers, a lovely husband, father and war hero who bravely served his country as a WWII, Korean and Vietnam veteran, age 91, died peacefully in his home Saturday, August 17, 2019 after a long battle with complications due to his combat service.

Robert is survived by his wife, Karin, his son, Rich and four grandchildren: Shawn, Rachel, Sarah and Claire Rogers, and his sister Dorothy Grivner. Preceding Robert in death are his first wife, Geraldine, his daughter Barbara Ann and brother Donald Rogers.

Robert was born June 22, 1928 in a small coal mining town in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania to Sydney and Viola Rogers.

From an early age, Robert had a love for God and country. In his teen years, he was a decorated Eagle Scout. During this time, he pursued a calling as an Episcopalian priest. However, due to the second world war draft, the trajectory of his life changed when he joined the military at age 16 with his parents' consent.

His 29 year military career began the day after his graduation from Elmer L. Myers High School when he arrived at Parris Island for boot camp. Robert served honorably under the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing; MOS Air Crew 1945 - 1974 as Crew Chief with more than 30,000 flight hours in the following aircraft: R4D, R5D, C-130, R4Q, R5C, R5O. One of Robert's fondest memories was serving as an Honor Guard for President Harry Truman's inauguration.

While in Korea, Robert was escorting a group of Marines to their guard post when a fellow marine said, "There goes 'Buck Rogers' and his Space Marines!" Through Robert's tour of duty and still to this day, the nickname 'Buck Rogers' is used by many who knew him.

During the Vietnam War, Buck served as a temporary Officer from 1966 – 1970. His highest grade was Chief Warrant Officer (CWO-2). Robert Rogers, CWO-2 earned the following distinguished medals for his military service: 5 Air Medals, Commendation Medal with Combat, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal 1 Silver Star and 3 Bronze Stars, World War II Victory Medal, American Defense Service Medal with clasp, National Defense Service Medal with 1 bronze star, Korean Service Medal with 1 Silver Star, United Nations Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Silver Star, Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon with 2 Stars, Navy/USCG Unit Commendation Ribbon with 1 Star, Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon with 1 Star, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Expert Rifle, Navy Expert Pistol, Republic of Korea War Service Medal, Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal 1960 Device, Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Medal Color w/Palm), Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Civil Actions Medal, First Class Color w/Palm), Combat Aircrew Insignias with 3 Stars.

After retiring from the military, he worked 24 years for the Academy of Defensive Driving (AODD). While at AODD, he ran the tuning and testing at the Orange County International Raceway, as well as training police officers in vehicle control and high-speed pursuits. Promoted to Director of AODD, he oversaw the drinking driving school and drug diversion.

Robert "Buck" Rogers served God, country, family, and his local community and fellow veterans throughout his retirement. He was active in PTSD awareness. He attended Prop 63 meetings, helping to bring education and awareness of PTSD among veterans. He served as treasurer for the North Orange County, Vietnam Veterans chapter #1024. As a member of the VVA Chapter, Buck and his fellow Vietnam veterans reached out to the community and all war Veterans, helping to ensure that no man was left behind. In 2011, Buck and his wife, Karin, received an appreciation award from Senator Lou Correa for distinguished families who have given back to the community. In 2012, Buck received the Veteran of the Year award in Sacramento for his district.

He was a loving faithful family man with strong gospel principles. In 2008 Robert married Karin and the two of them joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Throughout his retirement he devoted himself in loving service to his family and community. He spent much time caring for his grandchildren and enjoying his life with Karin.

At 88 years old, Robert and Karin served a three year mission with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. During this time, Elder Rogers was a Christlike example to many young LDS missionaries.

Robert "Buck" Rogers will be fondly remembered as a humble man of the greatest generation who always did the right thing. Semper Fi.

A celebration of his life will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 674 S. Yorba Street, Orange, CA 92869 on Saturday, August 31, 2019. He will receive a Patriot Guard Escort to Holy Sepulcher Cemetery at 7845 E. Santiago Canyon Road, Orange, CA 92869.

Arrangements under the direction of Chapman Funeral Homes - Terry & Mary Harmon, Funeral Directors. Toll free (855) 628-0447.

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Obituary notice for Chapman Funeral Homes. Please visit www.chapmanfuneraldirectors.com .

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