Former Middletown resident Todd Robinson has written, directed and produced “The Last Full Measure” a film opening Friday about Vietnam War hero William H. Pitsenbarger, writes Peg DeGrassa for the Daily Times.

His idea for “The Last Full Measure” came to him after meeting veterans who experienced unbelievable hardships.

Pitsenbarger, a U.S. Air Force Pararescuemen, was offered a chance to escape on the last helicopter out of a combat zone on April 11, 1966, but stayed behind to defend the lives of 60 soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division before being killed.

The movie details a high-level conspiracy behind efforts to deny a Medal of Honor for Pitsenbarger.

“I made a promise to some veterans who were in the battle and suffering,” he said. “It never occurred to me it would take 20 years to complete the film.”

Robinson’s love of film comes from growing up in Middletown.

“I loved the movies and made home horror movies with my neighborhood pals Dave and Rick Mortlock.  I think the reason they let me hang out was because my mom and dad had a Bell and Howell Super Eight movie camera,” Robinson said.

Read more about Todd Robinson and his new film here.

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