ROMO, ROBERT

Final rites for Lt. Robert Romo, killed in action on Okinawa in 1945, are being arranged in Redlands following the arrival of his body from a South Pacific burial ground.

Rosary will be recited Sunday night at 7:30 from the F. Arthur Cortner Chapel, with funeral services to be held Monday at 10 a.m., from the Sacred Heart Church. The Rev. Fr. Michael Byrne will officiate. Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery.

Lieutenant Romo, son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Romo Sr., 1262 Monterey Street, was one of the most decorated heroes of World War II from Redlands.

A native of Redlands, he was educated in the public schools and attended the University of Redlands. Following his graduation from the university in 1942 he enlisted in the Marine Corps, completing his training at Quantico, Va., where he was commissioned a lieutenant.

He was sent overseas in 1943 and participated in many Pacific engagements as a Marine Raider. He met his death while commanding a company of the First Marine Division May 14, 1945.

Among the citations of Lieutenant Romo is a personal one issued by President Harry S. Truman, posthumously which reads: “In grateful memory of Robert Romo, U.S.M.C., who died in the service of his country at Okinawa Island, May 14, 1945. He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who dared to die that freedom might live and grow and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it he lives—in a way that humbles the undertakings of most men.”

Other citations issued to Lieutenant Romo included the Purple Heart, the Silver Star Medal (posthumously), a commendation from the commanding general of the Seventh Marines and a Presidential Unit Citation.

During his school days in Redlands, Lieutenant Romo was a popular athlete, taking part in track, basketball and baseball.

Besides his parents, he is survived by a brother, Henry Romo Jr. of Compton (former commander of the Redlands unit of the National Guard) and his maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. P. E. Montijo of Redlands.