TAPS: Lieutenant Todd Hewlett Passes Away at Age 57

Lieutenant Richard "Todd" Hewlett, 57, of Douglass, Kansas, passed away on 20 December 2024 after a valiant battle against ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease). 

** Services will be held at Arlington National Cemetery, Tuesday, March 11 at 1500, 1 Memorial Avenue, Arlington Va 22211 – main entrance.** 

Todd was born on 12 May 1968 to Richard and Velma Hewlett in Wichita, Kansas. After graduating from Douglass High School in 1986, Todd went on to earn four bachelor's degrees and a Master of Education (Sports Administration), all from Wichita State University. 

Many of these degrees were completed while serving in the U.S. Navy Reserve from 2005 until his passing in 2024. He completed deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Djibouti, and on the USS Hershel 'Woody' Williams as well as serving as a Naval Intelligence officer at the Pentagon. During part of his military tenure he attended the U.S. Naval War College, completing phase I in 2016. 

Todd was honored to receive several prestigious awards, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, and various other awards. 

One of Todd's greatest loves was volunteering or working for multiple college-affiliated events such as NCAA tournaments for men's and women's basketball and women's volleyball, as well as coaching the Women's Rowing Team at Southern Methodist University. He also had a passion for travel abroad and for the U.S. National Parks. 

Todd will always be remembered for his fighting spirit and service to our beloved nation. In lieu of flowers or gifts, consider visiting a national park in Todd's memory. Should you wish to donate to a cause which affected Todd the most, please give to any organization which researches and supports ALS. 

** Services will be held at Arlington National Cemetery, Tuesday, March 11 at 1500, 1 Memorial Avenue, Arlington Va 22211 – main entrance.** 

For more information regarding travel, transportation, and access to Arlington, please visit www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Funerals/Attending-a-Funeral. Additional details can be shared by request.