Also serving the communities of De Luz, Rainbow, Camp Pendleton, Pala and Pauma

Lt. Col. Frank Thomas Blaskiewicz

Lt. Col. Frank Thomas Blaskiewicz, USAF, Ret., October 4, 1918 – April 27, 2008, lived an exemplary life in every way. He was a man of honor and integrity, serving his country with great courage during WWII and the Korean War. He was a man of faith and consistency and loyalty, totally devoted to his wife, Arden, for 56 years. And he was a loving father and grandfather, a man who always did his very best to provide for his precious family.

Frank’s life is the classic American story. His family immigrated from Krakow, Poland to Ellis Island in the 1920’s. Frank went on to distinguish himself as a Lt. Colonel in the U.S. Air Force for 30 years – serving this country with great heart and unflinching courage over and over again.

His numerous decorations, citations and medals include: The Distinguished Flying Cross; The Air Force Commendation Medal; The United Nations Service Medal; The National Defense Service Medal; and The Korean Service Medal.

One of his citations notes that Frank “flew a B26 Attack Bomber with the 5th Air Force – displaying outstanding courage and airmanship while flying armed reconnaissance over enemy main supply route near Sincye, Korea.”

Frank’s calm, tranquil spirit – even under intense pressure – uniquely equipped him to accomplish these amazing war-time achievements. His outstanding service to his country was recognized with full military honors at his funeral service at Riverside National Cemetery on Monday, May 5, 2008.

Frank loved to fly! It was one of the great joys of his life. He was a V.I.P. pilot for SHAPE Headquarters when he was in France. And after he retired from the armed service he flew professionally with Air California Airlines for many years. He loved to sail also. He and his family enjoyed many outings on his first yacht which was appropriately named “Once An Eagle!” He was an active member of the Fallbrook Rotary for several years and was also an avid golfer.

Frank, a 37 year resident of Fallbrook, passed away peacefully at his home. He is survived by his wife Arden Blaskiewicz, son Thomas Brighton & wife Patricia of Sherman Oaks, daughters Andrea Renee of Carlsbad, Elissa Taylor and husband Wayne of Fallbrook, Stephanie Weyls of Anza and six grand children, Sarah, Eric, Margaret, Marissa, Bradford and Francis, and two great grand children, Gavin & James.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 24, at 2 p.m. at Fallbrook Presbyterian Church, 463 S. Stagecoach Lane.

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles … they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint!”

 

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