Gregory M. Burch

Gregory M. Burch, 72, of Charles Town died Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020, at the Martinsburg VA Medical Center.

He was born April 25, 1947, in Washington, DC. He was the son of the late Mitchell and Helen Burch.

He is survived by first cousins Phyills Slonac and her husband Joe, Tom and wife Paula Burch, Brian Orlando, Bill Orlando and wife Barb Orlando and their daughter Joyce Orlando and son Matthew Orlando and wife Tiffany. He is also survived by his lifelong friend James L. Burke and wife Deborah. His Godchildren Katie Burke and Patrick Burke. As well as numerous cousins and closely held dear friends.

He graduated from Springbrook High School in Silver Spring, Maryland, in 1965. After graduation and attending college for a short period, he voluntarily enlisted in the United States Army and served during the Vietnam War as an aircraft maintenance crew member and helicopter flight mechanic. He was assigned to the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (Blackhorse). For his exemplary service he was awarded The Air Medal, granted for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. In addition, he was also decorated with the National Defense Service Medal.

Following his military enlistment with the US Army, he went on to fly as one of the younger members of Air America, a United States Government activity which supplied and supported private operations in Southeast Asia. Often associated as Civil Air Transport and CAT Inc.

Mr. Burch remained abroad for many years in Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East working in the petroleum industry. Upon returning to the United states he worked in real estate and went on to become a self-employed business owner.

He was a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Blue Ridge West Virginia; The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution; The Sons of Confederate Veterans; The American Legion, China Post #1 – Shanghai; The Air America Association; Life Member of the 11th Cavalry’s Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia.

As longtime member of Zion Episcopal Church, he served on the Cemetery Association and in the capacity of an Usher. He was committed to the church through his many acts of charity and kindness and was particularly attentive to projects that supported youth and the community.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 27, 2020, at Zion Episcopal Church, Charles Town with The Rev. Frank Coe officiating.

Internment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery, Washington, DC, to be announced on a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Zion Episcopal Church Youth Ministry, 301 E Congress St, Charles Town, WV 25414, or to the Jefferson County Historical Society, 201 Needwood Farm Lane, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425.

Arrangements are by the Melvin T. Strider Colonial Funeral Home, Charles Town.

Please sign the online guestbook and view his obituary at www.mtstrider.com