A humbled Soul winged its way to heaven on March 28, 2018.
Larry Bruce Underwood became an Angel, his children at his side.

Larry was born on February 08, 1945 in Louisville, KY to parents Lonzo and Beatrice Underwood, both deceased.

Larry is survived by spouse Sandra, and children Mark, Kristi, and Michael Underwood of Yuba City, CA; daughter in law, Laura, granddaughter Kayla, and two great grandchildren; siblings: Brenda C. (Joe) Bertel, Sherry L., Gary B., Jerry L. (Shirley) Underwood; Michele D. (Steve) Cambridge; Michael E. (Katie, Carla) Underwood; Sherry (Cameron) Henry; and Sharon (Jason) Chandler all of Indiana. In addition, to many nieces and nephews and 4-legged friends.

Larry attended Southport High School in Indianapolis, IN, graduating in 1963. Larry was President of his class his freshman and sophomore years, and Vice President his senior year. Larry was awarded a Full Academic Scholarship to Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Indiana. While at Wabash he was a member of Sigma Chi Fratrenity. He graduated in1967 with a Bachelor's Degree in History.

Upon graduating from Wabash, Larry joined the United States Air Force entering as a 2nd Lt. Officer. He was a member of the Strategic Air Command completing 339 missions as a Navigator in the B-52's during the Vietnam War. He was an Electronic Warfare Officer and a member of the Strategic Air Command and "Old Crows" out of March AFB in Southern California. He was instrumental in the Development of the Radar Jamming System for the Air Force. Larry was a member of the "U2/TRI Dragon Ladies" Command Post RAF, Alconbury, England. He was a member of the United States Air Forces in Europe. His missions included those out of RAF Akrotiri in Cypress; Anderson AFB in Guam; U-Tapao Royal Thai Navy Base in Thailand; Mather AFB; and Beale AFB including 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing and 99th Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron planning missions for the U2 Spy plane.

In 1973 Larry was presented with the Highest Medal Award, "The Distinguished Flying Cross" by the President of the United States by Executive Order for his extraordinary achievement while participating in an Aerial Flight mission. In addition to this, Larry received The Meritorious Service Medal with one Bronze Cluster Leaf, The Air Medal with four Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, The Air Force Commendation Medal, The Combat Readiness Medal, The Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with four Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, The Defense Service Medal, The AF Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, The AF Training Ribbon, The Veterans Service Medal with three Bronze Stars, The AF Outstanding Unit Award with one silver oak leaf cluster, The Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with palm Device, and the Republic of the Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Larry retired from the United States Air Force in 1989. He was presented with a United States Flag that had flown over Pearl Harbor at the time of his retirement.

After Retiring from the Air Force, Larry became a school teacher for Plumas Elementary School in Northern California for over ten years. He also worked with young adults in the Sutter County Juvenile System as a teacher and mentor. He was an excellent educator working with at impoverished youth as well as those who did not speak English.

After retiring from teaching, Larry dedicated his time to be with his family. He was an avid sports enthusiast. He was a fan of the USC Trojans, however, also cheered for Kentucky and Indiana teams. Larry was also a faithful Pittsburgh Steelers fan.

Larry was a dedicated Christian. He believed in The Lord and Jesus Christ. Larry was a "True Hero" of America. He believed the Flag represented the blood lost by all the fallen heroes who gave their lives for the freedoms of America. He strongly believed all Americans should "Not ask what this country can do for you, but: What can you do for this country." He believed America should care for the Wounded Warriors, the handicapped, disabled, and the elderly who could no longer take care of themselves. He believed in our country and fought with every ounce of his being to make America safe.

America has Lost a "True Hero" to the Heavens above! God Speed!

Service has been entrusted to Lipp & Sullivan in Marysville, California with Full Military Honors, scheduled for Wednesday April 04, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. PST.
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