Robert A. Pearson

PEARSON ROBERT A. PEARSON "Bob" Colonel, USA (Ret.) Bob Pearson, a retired Army colonel who served in the Quartermaster Corp, passed away in Fairfax, Virginia, on May 1, 2009. Robert Alexander Pearson was born in Casanova, Fauquier County, VA and graduated from Calverton High School. In 1941, he was one of the first men drafted into the Army. After graduating from Officer Candidate School, he became executive officer of the 247th Quartermaster Battalion., which landed on Omaha Beach during D-Day. Col. Pearson graduated from the Army War College and became Director of Procurement at the Defense Personnel Support Center in Philadelphia, which oversaw the materiel buildup needed for the Vietnam War. He also served as the Commanding Officer of the Army depot at Long Binh, outside Saigon, at that time the largest logistical base in the world. His final active-duty assignment, in 1973, was post commander at Fort Devens, MA. His decorations included four awards of the Legion of Merit, two awards of the Bronze Star Medal and four awards of the Army Commendation Medal. In retirement, he lived in the Rutherford community of Fairfax County for many years and was a member of St. Leo Catholic Church in Fairfax. He also participated in a philanthropic group composed of retired military officers. His wife of 52 years, Ruth Bohne Pearson, died in 1993. Survivors include three children, Sharon Long of Canonsburg, PA, Sandra D''Acunto of Reston, VA and Robert A. Pearson Jr. of Fairfax Station, VA; a sister, Patricia Sanders of Warrenton, VA; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Bob is lovingly remembered for his service to his country, loyalty, compassion, and friendship. A Memorial Mass will be held at the Old Post Chapel, Ft. Meyer, VA at 10:15 a.m., Tuesday, August 18, followed by a graveside service with Full Military Honors at Arlington National Cemetery. Arlington, VA.