Col. Arthur K. Leatherwood, Jr., USAF, Ret'd

Col. Arthur K. Leatherwood, Jr., USAF, Ret'd died on August 29, 2009. Art, known as "A.K." to the family, was born at Westville, OK on July 28, 1921. He enlisted in the US Army Air Corps in 1939, and received his pilot's wings at Waco, TX in 1943.

After a period as a flight instructor, Col. Leatherwood was assigned to the 14th Photo Reconnaissance Squadron, 7th Photo Group of the US 8th Air Force in England where he flew unarmed P-38 and Spitfire MK XI photo- reconnaissance aircraft over the European Theatre in support of Allied ground and bombing offensives.

Art met his future bride, Maxine Berggren, in Oxford, England in 1944. Art and Maxine were married on March 18, 1947 in Olathe KS, and remained together for 62 years.

Art worked as a documentary filmmaker for the Atomic Energy Commission, documenting the early nuclear tests in Nevada and the Marshall Islands. He returned to flying duty in 1955. The family lived in several states before moving to Austin, TX in 1965 upon Art's retirement from the Air Force after 26 years.

After his retirement, Art fulfilled a lifetime goal by earning his bachelor's degree in education. He taught social studies at Lanier High School for fifteen years, retiring in 1983. His retirement years were consumed by his interest in Texas history, a fascination with woodworking, a commitment to lunch every week with his son Jon, his passion for the game of golf, and his devotion to his wife and constant companion Maxine who preceded him in death.

According to L. E. Clarke, ASGA President, Col. Leatherwood dropped out of ASGA in 2003 after being a member for about 10 years.

Funeral services were held at Austin-Peel Funeral Home, 607 E Anderson Lane, at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2009, with the Reverend Karl Gronberg officiating. Arthur will be interred alongside Maxine in a private ceremony at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio. Memorial gifts may be made to Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 200 W Anderson Lane, (512) 836-8560.

ASGA extends condolences to Col. Leatherwood's family and friends.