Recently, Chaplain Guy Mitchell, Peachtree City, and Commandant David Epps, Sharpsburg, both representing the Sgt Clyde Thomason Medal of Honor Detachment, visited Captain Bob Kotz, USMC, in Piedmont Newnan Hospital. Bob was a faithful member of the Sgt Clyde Thomason MOH Detachment 1325 of the Marine Corps League and was a Vietnam combat veteran.
Epps and Mitchell were at the hospital to present to Kotz the Individual Meritorious Commendation for his service and example to the Marine Corps League. Captain Kotz had been ill for several years but continued to work in the Toys for Tots program and came to meetings even when it was extremely difficult and exhausting to do so. The commendation read:
“Individual Meritorious Commendation Presented toRobert KotzFor demonstrating uncommon commitment, unfailing faithfulness, and courageous persistence to the Sgt Clyde Thomaston Medal of Honor Detachment #1325While combating severe challenges and facing serious adversity. In the finest tradition and example of the United States Marine Corps.”
Kotz died at Southwest Christian Care two days later.His funeral mass at St. George Catholic Church in Newnan included a Fallen Marine presentation by representatives of Detachment 1325 to his family, a 21 gun salute and the playing of “Taps” by the Honor Guard of Marine Corps League Detachment 1196 of Griffin, and the folding of the American flag by USMC reservists which was presented to Mrs Kotz.
He is survived by his wife Beth Kotz, a grandchild Olivia, and daughters Megan Mitchell and Monica Kotz
