Herbert Arnold Pederson Jr.

Born in Pacific Grove, California, Herbert Pederson dedicated an impressive 30 years of his life to serving in the United States Air Force. His military career spanned three significant conflicts: World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Col. Pederson, a decorated war hero, earned numerous accolades for his bravery and dedication to service. Notable among these honors were the Air Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Legion of Merit (awarded in 1970 and 1972), the Bronze Star (1970, Vietnam), the First Leaf Pentagon, the Gallantry Cross, and service on NATO staff. He proudly served in the Army Air Corps before it became the United States Air Force and spent 365 days in Vietnam.

One of Col. Pederson's notable achievements during his military career was the successful effort to bring the 1st Tactical Fighter Wing, the oldest wing, to Langley Air Force Base, the oldest base. His love for Langley's heritage and historical significance motivated him to advocate for the arrival of a fighter wing instead of a tanker squadron, ultimately bringing the first F-15 fighter squadron to the base in September 1975.

In his civilian life, Col. Pederson was an active member of the Bethany Methodist Church in Hampton, VA, where he found solace and community. His commitment to service extended beyond his military career, as he served on the Foundation Board of the Braxton-Perkins American Legion Post 25 in Newport News and was a member of the Warwick Moose Lodge 1711 in Newport News. Col. Pederson was also a proud member of the Order of Daedalians, reflecting his dedication to aviation.

A man of diverse interests, Col. Pederson found joy in music and golf during his retirement years. His passion for big band music led him to pick up the trumpet again and he played in the Dick Christ’s The Sounds of Swing from the 1980s until 2022. He also played in the Peninsula Retired Musicians Band and the Sauerkraut Symphony Band from 2000 until 2022. Additionally, he enjoyed weekly golf outings with his closest friends in the Oxidine Golf Group until 2022.

In 1985, Col. Pederson, along with his beloved late wife, Eleanor Tucker Pederson, built their dream home in Hampton. Eleanor, his partner of 68 years, preceded him in rest in 2018. He is survived by his son, David Pederson; daughter-in-law, Marion Pederson; granddaughters: Kristen Posey (Brian) Jessica Clary, and Nicole Clary; and great-grandson, Bennett Posey.

Col. Herbert A Pederson leaves behind a legacy of honor, service, and devotion to his country and community. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, November 28, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 North Armistead Avenue Hampton, VA 23666. A memorial service to celebrate Col. Herbert Pederson's life will be held at 10:00 AM with burial services following directly after at Parklawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the church: Bethany Methodist Church, 1509 Todds Lane, Hampton, VA 23666.