News Summary
The Coronado community mourns the passing of Commander Robert ‘Bob’ Lindsay, a revered naval aviator and community leader. At 94, Lindsay leaves behind a legacy of military excellence and dedication to local initiatives, including environmental conservation efforts and community service. From his aviation career to his role in local governance, Lindsay’s impact on Coronado will be felt for generations.
Coronado, California – Commander Robert “Bob” Lindsay, a distinguished naval aviator and devoted community leader, passed away at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy marked by notable military achievements and contributions to his local community. Born on May 7, 1929, in Hartford, Connecticut, and raised in nearby Windsor, Lindsay grew fond of aviation and military service that would guide his career and influence those around him.
Lindsay moved to Coronado in 1947, where he pursued his education at Loomis Preparatory School and later at the University of Connecticut. Following a visit to Coronado, he enlisted in the Naval Reserve, which laid the groundwork for his military service. His commitment to aviation was further solidified when he was accepted into the U.S. Naval Academy in June 1949, thanks to a recommendation from his commanding officer. Graduating in 1953, he married his wife, Marilyn, soon after.
Flight training commenced for Lindsay in the same year, culminating in the earning of his wings of gold in 1954 in Corpus Christi, Texas. He began his naval career with VF-93 in Alameda, California, where he flew the Grumman F9F-8 swept-wing fighter. Over the course of the 1950s, Lindsay’s squadron underwent a significant transition and was redesignated to VFA-93 aboard the USS Oriskany, shifting its focus towards enhancing the Navy’s atomic strike capabilities. As one of the few pilots qualified to operate aircraft equipped with atomic weapons, Lindsay’s role was pivotal in adapting military aviation to modern warfare needs.
Subsequently, the squadron transitioned to the Douglas A-4 aircraft, which featured enhanced navigation systems for nighttime and adverse weather operations. Lindsay aptly described the A-4 as the best aircraft for carrier landings, utilizing a mirror landing system on angled decks, a testament to his proficiency as a pilot.
A significant milestone in Lindsay’s career came with his retirement on December 31, 1978, after which he continued to cultivate his passion for flying as a flight instructor. In addition to this, he served as president of the North Island Navy Flying Club, where he remained connected to the aviation community.
Lindsay furthered his education by acquiring a master’s degree in systems management from the University of Southern California in January 1979. In the waning years of the 20th century, he gained recognition as a test pilot for the Europa, an experimental aircraft. His experience aided builders during the critical phase of first flight certification, showcasing his continued dedication to aviation.
Involved in local governance, Lindsay joined the City of Coronado’s Street Tree Committee in 2004, ascending to the position of chairperson. His stewardship was critical in efforts to preserve heritage trees, and he played a significant role in designating the Torrey pine as Coronado’s official city tree. The first designated Torrey pine can be found in Palm Park at the intersection of Palm Avenue and Third Street, underscoring Lindsay’s commitment to environmental conservation.
Living in Coronado with his wife in their family home for over 57 years, Lindsay’s impact transcended his military achievements, leaving a profound imprint on the community he cherished. As residents of Coronado mourn his loss, his legacy as a dedicated naval aviator and passionate community advocate will continue to inspire future generations.
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Additional Resources
- Coronado News: Capt. Joseph T. Talbert
- Wikipedia: U.S. Navy
- Coronado Times: Robert E. Adamson III
- Google Search: Avenue of Heroes
- Coronado News: VADM Robert J. Spane
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Naval Aviation
- Patch: Kyle McArthur
- Google News: Navy Seal history
