John H. Rollins Jr.

Major John H. Rollins, Jr. USAF (Ret) passed away on Tuesday January 10, 2011 at the Upper Chesapeake Health Center in Bel Air, Md at the age of 90. He was the son of John and Anna Marie Rollins. He was predeceased by his oldest son Richard, and his sister Anne. Bridget, his devoted wife of 66 years and youngest son Steve were at his side.

His survivors include daughter-in-law Susan and two grand-children, Courtney and Peter Rollins. He also leaves a brother Theodore and his family.

John was born in Akron, Ohio. He was a lifelong professional musician who played upright bass and tuba. He traveled the Midwest with many Big Bands including the Sammy Kaye Orchestra after WWII. He then played with the local bands Top Hats and later with the "Gentlemen of Jazz". In 1942, he enlisted in the US Army Air Corp and qualified for flight school. He graduated from cadet school as a newly commissioned Second Lieutenant and earned his pilot wings. He rose quickly to command pilot status flying B-24 bombers as a member of the 885th Bomb Squadron. He was part of the 15th Air Force in Europe and successfully flew 50 missions, 15 more than the minimum of 35 required by aircrews to return home. His missions included dangerous night drops of OSS agents and supplies in support of the resistance. He brought his entire 9 man crew home safely to their families. His many decorations, including the Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters and the Distinguished Flying Cross, are testament to his superb airmanship and leadership. He was one of the few remaining B-24 pilots who was interviewed by Stephen Ambrose for his book "The Wild Blue".

After his discharge from the AAF, John continued his aviation career with the Federal Government as a pilot, testing electronic systems at Aberdeen Proving Ground. While fully rated in 4 engine and smaller fixed-wing aircraft, he then graduated from the Army's helicopter school in Texas. During this time, he had reentered the Air Force Reserve, transitioning to C-119 transports at Andrews AFB. He completed his USAF career as a member of the Delaware Air National Guard as a command pilot of C-97 transports during the Vietnam War. He amassed almost 6, 000 hours of flight time over his 38 years of total service to our nation by the time of his retirement. He retired from federal service in 1980 from the Human Engineering Lab at Aberdeen Proving Ground.

John was a member of the American Legion, Susquehanna Chapter of MOAA, and past member of the Aberdeen Lions Club.

In retirement, John and Bridget vacationed in Florida in their RV and enjoyed playing golf.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Grace United Methodist Church at 110 W. Bel Air Rd Aberdeen, Md. 21001.