U.S. Navy · United States 
Thomas Rettberg
2000
Thomas Sumner Rettberg served the U.S. Navy for 3 years. Thomas also served in the U.S. Navy. Thomas served in the Vietnam War and the Cold War.
How He Died
Manner
Accident
Cause
Multiple traumatic injuries
What Happened
Lieutenant Thomas Rettberg was killed when the OH-58 Bell helicopter he was piloting crashed during a routine maintenance flight.
The rotor blades seized up during the flight, causing the crash. The helicopter then landed on its side in a field. A mechanic onboard was also killed.
Lieutenant Rettberg was a U.S. Navy veteran. He had served with the Utah Highway Patrol for 25 years, and had been a pilot for 22 years.
The rotor blades seized up during the flight, causing the crash. The helicopter then landed on its side in a field. A mechanic onboard was also killed.
Lieutenant Rettberg was a U.S. Navy veteran. He had served with the Utah Highway Patrol for 25 years, and had been a pilot for 22 years.
Survivors
He is survived by his wife, three children, five grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and a sister.
Service Record
U.S. Navy
1958 – 1962
U.S. Navy
Conflicts
Vietnam War
Cold War
Also Served
Utah Highway Patrol
Lieutenant
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtnrazca5vty8hh7yd701
Record added
August 2, 2026
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Last updated
August 2, 2026
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