Robert "Bob" Brewster
U.S. Army, 1968 – 1972, 1976 – 1991
Bob Brewster is a U.S. Army veteran, aviator, and longtime Florida resident. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Brewster entered the Army in 1968 after graduating from college. He completed Officer Candidate School, was commissioned in the Signal Corps, and later attended flight school, where he trained to fly the O-1 Bird Dog. From 1970 to 1971, Brewster served in Vietnam with the 219th Aviation Company, flying reconnaissance, artillery-adjustment, convoy-cover, radio-relay, and search-and-rescue missions across the Central Highlands. He completed 299 combat missions and nearly 800 flight hours. While in Vietnam, he reunited with Army nurse Ruth Holbrook; the couple married during rest and recuperation in Hawaii on Valentine’s Day. After active duty, Brewster studied at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, worked as a flight instructor, and returned to military aviation through the Army National Guard, flying helicopters and serving in operations roles. He later completed a 30-year aviation career and entered real estate. Brewster remains active in veterans’ organizations and military remembrance efforts.
Full Interview
Interview Summary
Access the complete transcript here
Introduction and Enlisting in the Military (0:46 – 8:04)
Flight School 8:04 – 11:46 Reuniting with Ruth in Vietnam (11:46 – 17:07)
Bird Dog Missions (17:07 – 31:12)
Close Calls and Frightening Moments (31:12 – 45:57)
Married Life in Vietnam (45:57 – 54:35)
Life After Service (54:35 – 59:33)
