Laurence Rosen, MD passed from this life on July 22, 2021, in Helotes, Texas. He was born on October 16, 1946, in Brooklyn, New York to Bernard Rosen and Grace Schwind. Dr. Rosen is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Dr. Maria Saenz Rosen. Sons: Laurence Elliott Rosen (Lindsey), William Rosen, and David Rosen; Brothers: Robert Rosen (Ophelia), David Mulford (Cindy); Sister: Paula Mulford and his beautiful grandson, Peter Rosen; and niece Justine Rosen.
Dr. Rosen graduated from Bayshore High School in 1964. He earned a BA degree from the University of Miami (1968). He completed medical school at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio in 1977, and his Anesthesia residency in 1981, with a specialization in Cardiothoracic Anesthesia. Always an avid learner, Dr. Rosen earned a master’s degree in Environmental Sciences (1995) from the University of Texas, San Antonio, TX. He received board certification from the American Academy of Pain Management and the American Academy of Neuro-Muscular Thermography. He held numerous licenses and certifications including recognitions from the Federal Aviation Administration as a single engine and multi-engine pilot, rotary wing commercial pilot with instruments, FAA Medical Examiner, and FAA Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics License. He published ten articles in numerous prestigious medical journals, held numerous educational appointments at the University of Texas, San Antonio, TX, and the St. Georges University School of Medicine, Grenada, West Indies. Dr. Rosen retired as an anesthesiologist in June 2020.
Prior to receiving his medical degree, Dr. Rosen entered military service in the U.S. Army. He graduated from Rotary Wing Flight School, Ft. Rucker, AL, in 1969. In 1970, he was sent to the Republic of South Viet Nam as a medevac helicopter pilot, 326 Medical Battalion, 101st Airborne Division. Captain Rosen’s exploits and deeds have been written about in books and magazines. His rescue of 25 wounded soldiers from Fire Support Base Ripcord is still remembered today by those who were there. After leaving Viet Nam, he was assigned to the newly developed Department of Defense and civilian authority Military Assistance to Safety and Traffic as an instrument flight instructor. He completed his active-duty tour in 1973. Amongst his many decorations for valor and service include the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Air Medal with 18 oak leaf clusters, Army Commendation Medal, Viet Nam Service Medal, Viet Nam Campaign Medal, and the Presidential Unit Citation. Based upon his valorous actions at Fire Support Base Ripcord, he was nominated for a Medal of Honor.
