Nelson Otto Pohl

In Loving Memory Colonel Nelson O. Pohl USAF, Retired 16 October, 1925 - 07 February, 2012 Nelson was born on October 16, 1925, in Atchison Kansas, at age 17 he graduated from Potter High School in 1942. After graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in August, 1943 and spent 3 years at Mather AFB, Calif., as a navigator-bombardier-radar instructor. In July of 1946 he transferred to Ladd AFB, Fairbanks, Alaska where he met and married Helen Mae Lewis on December 16, 1947. During Nelson's military career he received numerous service awards and honors including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Multiple Meritorious Service Medals, Air Force Commendation Medal, Combat Readiness Medal and numerous commendations from the Republic of Vietnam Air Force including; RVN Gallantry Cross w/Gold Star, RVN Military Merit Fourragre and many more. His decorated career included B-47 Instructor Pilot training, a Staff Officer with Strategic Air Command, Commander of the Air Force Advisory Team 5 in Vietnam and Deputy Commander of Operations at Barksdale AFB, Louisiana prior to his retirement in June 1974. After spending nearly 31 years in the service of his country he moved his family for the final time back to Helen's home town of Elma, Washington. He enjoyed the next 38 years taking care of his farm, family and bowling with friends. He was a life-time member of the VFW, joined and supported the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, and was a successful business owner of the "Stihl Saw Man of Elma". According to his family, he was the most remarkable man they have ever known. Nelson and Helen devoted their entire lives loving one another and caring for their sons, grandchildren and great-grandson with unconditional love. Nelson is survived by his wife, Helen, of over 64 years, his three sons, Steven, Elma, Galen (Kim), Lake Tapps, WA, Alan, Montesano, WA, three grandchildren, Katie, Jennie, Brock and great-grandson Isaac. Public visitation is from 4-7PM Sunday, February 12, 2012 at Whiteside in Elma. Graveside services with full Military Honors will begin at 1PM Monday, February 13, 2012 at Oddfellows Cemetery in Elma. The family suggests in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the Disabled American Veterans, Attention: Gift Processing, PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301