Robert A. Firpo (1923 – 2010)
Robert August Firpo was born March 23, 1923, in Stockton, and died peacefully of natural causes surrounded by his family April 28, 2010.
Robert was the only child of Louis Firpo and Louise Leonardini, graduating from Stockton High School in 1940. He fought in World War II from 1943 to 1945, flying 30 missions as a decorated nose gunner on a B-24 in the Pacific Theater.
He returned to Stockton and married Evelyn Barakatt in 1948, and went to work at the Sunbeam Bakery in the 1950s. They started a family that eventually grew to seven children. All his life he loved the outdoors, and after the demise of the bakery, he turned one of his hobbies, gardening, into a second career that spanned more than 30 years. His meticulous work, easy smile and exuberant friendliness gave him a gaggle of devoted, long-time customers. His orange 1966 Chevy truck and matching trailer were a recognizable and familiar site in mid-town and north Stockton. He loved hunting and fishing, and over a lifetime combed some of the most rugged terrain in the western Sierra, a pastime that kept him young.
His family never knew of his achievements in the U.S. Army Air Force until after his passing, when his Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal were found.
We miss you, Bob.
7th Air Force
11th Bombardment Group (Heavy) The Grey Geese
26th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy)
B-24’s Royal Flush and Kansas Cyclone
Michael Lemon Portfolio 
My uncle also worked the royal flush and was on board when shot down. …would love to hear of any history between these two heros
Mr. Caldwell, are you still around? I’ve been away for awhile…. Write back if you’re still interested. – Mike