Milton Cogswell Shattuck

Milton C. Shattuck Jr. “Mit”, Lieutenant Colonel, Retired, 92, passed away peacefully on July 9, following a courageous battle with cancer. A soldier, a scholar, and a storyteller, Mit lived a life defined by service to the country he loved. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1956. His distinguished military career was marked by bravery and honor during the Vietnam conflict, where he was awarded a Purple Heart, Valorous Unit Award, two distinguished Flying Crosses, and several other commendations. After Vietnam, he continued his service in Panama, where he commanded the Jungle Operations Training Center (JOTC, Ft. Sherman, Panama), shaping generations of soldiers for the challenges of combat. He was presented the Congressional Veteran Commendation award by Florida Congressman, Vern Buchanan in 2023. A master marksman and a meticulous gunsmith, Mit could strike a target at 1000 yards with unfailing precision (Long Rifle). He found great joy in the companionship of his loyal friends, the company of his loyal dog, Gus, and the chance to pass along his life stories. His presence was strong, and his legacy of kindness and character will endure in those who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his sister, Susan Benson (Bill Martin); his son, Mit Shattuck III (Julie), his daughters, Vicky King (Jeff), and Stacy Johnson (Greg); and seven grandchildren: Anna and Stella Shattuck, Stephen and Charlie King, and Courtney (Markian), Heath (Ayla), and Lena Johnson, as well as, several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Helga, his father, Col Milton C. Shattuck Sr., his mother, Marion, and his beloved sisters, Margaret “Pat” Rahmann and Marion Pamela “Pam” Burleigh. In his final weeks, Mitt was surrounded by the enduring friendship and care of many, most notably Kim and Kortney Rose, Larry Lowder, Kevin Wright, and Richard Koch. The companionship and care that Mit received from these individuals was exceptional. He lived a long life the way he wanted. He will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery with his parents, grandparents, uncles and cousins.