Spc. Robert E. Blair of Ocala, Fla., graduated from Lake Weir in 2003, and grew up in Weirsdale. He played high school football for two years, worked out at Too Your Health Spa in Belleview and was a former cadet with the Sheriff's Office Explorer Post. He was an active young man and an avid cowboy. He started talking about enlisting shortly after 9-11 enlisting in the National Guard at age 17 while still in high school and spent his summer vacation between junior and senior years in basic training. His National Guard unit was deployed to Iraq during Blair's senior year, leaving him behind. Determined not to be left out the war, Blair convinced military officials to let him join the Army in 2003. The slim, 6-foot-tall Blair took up bull riding during his tour in Germany and competed with other soldiers for the Baumholder Rodeo Team. He received top honors and won $200 riding bulls at a rodeo competition. His bull riding was featured in an article in Stars and Stripes. Robert openly talked about the rodeo team, the Army and his dreams of joining Marion County Fire-Rescue. His words underlined his courage and willingness to face danger. He had worked for Steve Counts Construction while in high school. He developed skills he later used to work on Bradley Fighting Vehicles, making him a more valuable member of his gunner's unit. Posthumously awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart and Combat Infantry Badge. Robert was a courageous soldier, a strong Christian and hero. Robert's mother is deceased, however, his parents Allen and Karen (step mother)Blair, are living, and they love and miss their hero!! Roberts Momma-K writes on this site often and is very thankful for Find a grave !! The portion of County Road 42 that runs between Weirsdale and Pedro was dedicated in honor and memory of Army Spc. Robert E. Blair, who was killed in Iraq. He was 22.

Army
2nd Battalion,
6th Infantry,
2nd Brigade,
1st Armored Division,
Baumholder, Germany.