A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF ROBERT STEWART BOND AND TO EXTEND THEIR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS LARGE AND LOVING FAMILY AND HIS MANY FRIENDS.
H5697 is a simple House resolution honoring the life and memory of Robert Stewart Bond, who passed away on April 19, 2026, at age 78. The resolution recounts his upbringing in Columbia, education at Cardinal Newman High School and the University of South Carolina, and his decision to leave college to serve in the United States Air Force. It highlights his service in Air Force Special Operations Command, including deployment in Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, and notes his later work in the food service industry and at his family business.
The resolution also describes Bond’s personal life and character, emphasizing his faith, devotion to family, love of music, sports, travel, and community. It closes by expressing the House’s sorrow and extending sympathy to his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family, and by directing that a copy of the resolution be presented to the family. As a commemorative resolution, it does not create or amend substantive law, but serves as an official legislative tribute and record of condolence.
H5697 has no direct regulatory or fiscal impact and does not amend the South Carolina Code or alter the rights or duties of any person or entity. Its legal effect is ceremonial: it authorizes the House to formally recognize Robert Stewart Bond’s life and service and to transmit the resolution to his family as an expression of sympathy and respect.
The sentiment surrounding the bill is uniformly positive and respectful. The resolution itself is written in a solemn, appreciative tone, and there is no recorded committee debate or vote history indicating opposition or controversy. The measure reflects bipartisan or unanimous legislative custom for memorial resolutions honoring deceased residents and veterans.
There is no notable contention in the available record. Because the bill is a memorial resolution, it does not present policy disagreements, statutory changes, or competing stakeholder interests. The only substantive focus is the House’s tribute to Bond’s military service, family life, and personal character.