Joe Donnelly

“ In the last decade of his life, Colonel Heeter was an active member of Grace United Methodist Church, the Kiwanis Club, the LeRoy Shelton American Legion Post #36, and many other organizations. He enjoyed working on his golf game and spending time with his grandchildren.
Colonel Heeter represented the best that this country has to offer. His selfless dedication to the United States, to his community and to his family will always be remembered. It is with great pride that I celebrate the life and service of COL Owen A. Heeter. ”

“ Some of his most notable accomplishments include becoming the first pilot to fly an HH-53 helicopter across the Pacific Ocean, flying rescue missions over Vietnam, and recovering bodies from the mass suicide in Jonestown, Guyana. ”