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WWII Hero, 101, Honored in Detroit
27 Jun
Summary
- Robert Hassler, Michigan's last Montford Point Marine, passed away at 101.
- He was among the first Black men to serve in the segregated US Marine Corps.
- Hassler faced racial barriers after his service, finding work as a taxi driver.
Robert Armond Hassler, an esteemed figure and likely Michigan's final original Montford Point Marine, was honored with burial services in Detroit. He passed away on June 16 at the age of 101. Hassler enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1943, becoming one of the first Black men to serve in a segregated military. He trained at Montford Point, North Carolina, a facility established due to racial restrictions at other bases.
Following his service from 1943 to 1947, Hassler pursued finance studies at Morehouse College. He later relocated to Detroit with his wife, Ollie. However, he encountered significant racial barriers when seeking accounting positions. This led him to careers as a taxi driver and later a 30-year tenure as a journeyman at the Chrysler Sterling Stamping Plant, retiring in 1993.
Friends and family remembered Hassler for his vibrant spirit and kindness. His funeral service was held at People's Community Church, where he was known for his cherished role in preparing Sunday coffee. The Montford Point Marines, recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal in 2012, faced immense challenges, initially being relegated to non-combat roles but ultimately defying expectations through distinguished service in the Pacific theater.
