Albert R. Lumpkin
U.S. Marine Corps
Vietnam Veteran
3rd
Reconnaissance Battalion
Died on 9 December, 2000
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He was supposed to be in Hawaii on R&R that week but had been "bumped" from the list. He was killed on his wife's 21st birthday.
Our parents are still alive (both 80 years old and missing him terribly) and we hope someone remembers Ron and can get back to us. If you spent time with him and remember him, please let us know. You can communicate with me at [email protected].
Ron has a nephew and 2 nieces, and 2 great-nephews (one of whom is his namesake) and a great-niece. None of them know or remember him, but they talk about their Uncle Ron as if he attended the last family gathering.
He was a wonderful son, a great brother and a patriotic American. We were and are proud of him as we are all of the guys/gals who were there.
Thank you for this wonderful site and allowing families and friends to share their pride with others. God Bless You!!
Sincerely,
Sharon (Zach) Ertl
IF ANY ONE REMEMBERS HOWIE, I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM THEM. HE TRAINED AT GREAT LAKES. HE ALSO SERVED AT ST ALBANS NAVAL HOSPITAL IN QUEENS, NEW YORK. WHEN HE RETURNED FROM VIET NAM HE WAS STATIONED AT THE PORTSMOUTH NAVAL SHIPYARD.
Debra Zwilling
Please contact Debra at [email protected]
RICHARD CAME HOME BUT NEVER FORGOT. HE COULD ONLY WALK INTO A STORE LONG ENOUGH TO GRAB WHATEVER IT WAS THAT HE NEEDED AND LEAVE. HE SET IN THE BACK PEW OF THE CHURCH, RIGHT NEAR THE DOOR. HE WOULD HAVE NIGHTMARE'S AND WAKE SCREAMING AND THRASHING HIS ARMS. OFTEN HITTING ME, AND ALWAYS SO SORRY THAT IT HAPPENED. HE WOULD SOMETIMES HAVE NIGHTMARES AND JUMP FROM HIS BED RUNNING AND SCREAMING. YES, HE CAME HOME IN BODY, BUT PART OF HIS MIND WAS LEFT IN VIETNAM.
I KNOW WHATEVER I WITNESSED COULD NEVER COMPARE WITH WHAT HE SAW AND SUFFERED, BUT WE ARE ALSO VICTIMS. VICTIMS OF A WAR THAT WAS NEVER CALLED A WAR. A CONFLICT; THAT WAS THE TECHNICAL TERM. WELL IT WAS A WAR AND ONE THAT ENDED UP BEING MANY'S OWN PERSONEL HELL. THOSE MEN FOUGHT AND DIED AND THE ONE'S WHO DID CAME HOME, COULD NEVER FORGET THE ONE'S WHO DIDN'T.
MY HUSBAND DIED AT THE AGE OF 50, FROM A STROKE. I WONDER HOW MANY YEARS HE REALLY DID GIVE TO HIS COUNTRY. FIFTY IS TOO YOUNG TO DIE. TOO YOUNG TO LEAVE 6 KIDS BETWEEN THE AGE OF 2-27. TOO YOUNG TO LEAVE A 44 YEAR OLD WIFE OF 25 YEARS. WHAT PRICE DO THEY PAY? BUT YOU KNOW WHAT. IF HE WERE HERE, HE WOULD DO IT AGAIN FOR HIS COUNTRY. NOT JUST THE VETERAN BUT THE WHOLE FAMILY HAS PAID THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE.
I ALWAYS EXPRESS MYSELF IN THE GIFT OF POETRY THAT GOD HAS GIVEN TO ME. THIS MEMORIAL DAY, I WROTE THIS POEM IN HIS MEMORY.
He went to a land torn by war
With fields of rice and fox holes galore
Bombs exploding all around
Guns firing thousands of rounds
Walking through swamps soaking wet
Snakes crawling around his neck
Ammunition dumps up in fire
Nothing left but blood and mire
He went to help a land be free
But in his mind he'll never be
Dreams of broken bodies and staring eyes
Mass graves where his comrades lie
He never really came home that day
His mind was left there to stay
He loved his family and lived for them
But could never forget where he had been
At fifty years the angels came
They took his soul home again
Now he's free...he remembers no more
The horror and hell of the Viet Nam War
MARY ROGERS
Contact Mary at [email protected]
My father sadly passed away from lung cancer which may have been caused by Agent Orange. My father received many medals of honor from the service. After the service, he tried to help his fellow veterans by co-founding the Veterans Transition House in New Bedford, MA. Paul was President of the Coalition of Vietnam Veterans , Treasurer of the VTH, and wasn't able to be awarded the Veteran of the Year, for he served on the Boad of Directors for the VTH.
Since my father has passed, the VTH has named their lobby after my father. Before my father passed, he has always been afraid to find out which of his friends made it home and which ones passed away. His biggest regret is leaving his brothers behind. I know my father would loved to find his friends, so I'm making an attempt to find some of the names he mentioned, which aren't many. If anyone know of the whereabouts of John Coffee, "Alphabet", or Johnny Maco, Please e-mail me at [email protected]
Dad, you will be missed and loved forever,
Your daughter, Jamie
* * *
Vietnam Veterans
Phillip was my brother whom because of divorce we were never able to meet. He came to meet us before going to Vietnam, but we were not at home. While a helicopter pilot in Vietnam his adopted Father died, as did the Father we had together. Phillip bravely lost his life in Vietnam in 1969. I like to believe they all have met in a better place.
Michael spent a year and a half in the infantry in Vietnam. He was my brother. He returned a broken person who could not adapt to life after all he had seen and done. We know very little of the horror he experienced. He died after his return in a car accident. I always believed most of him died in Vietnam. Both brothers were 22 at the time of their deaths.
Wesley was my husband who served in Vietnam and returned with a purple heart and commendation with V for Valor. He was a survival story and he was able to put it behind him and get on with living. He was Special Forces and proud of the fight they made. He was never bitter as so many are now. He died of cancer in 1994; he died as bravely as he fought in Vietnam.
These are the Men I loved and how Vietnam greatly affected my life.
During the war years there was a project you could donate to called Project Thank You. They sent care packages to soldiers in Vietnam in your name. One soldier, Michael C. Thomas, wrote a thank you and enclosed this saying..
Anyone knowing my loved ones I would love to hear from you.
Gilbert was a USMC LCPL E3 out of Pendleton, Oceanside, Ca. I Need a photo. I know there is one of his graduation from boot camp. He was more mature and a more of a man at his age than I realized at that time. My son is now 25 and sells cell phones for a living! I cannot fathom the difference.
I was only a young girl when I knew Gil but I told him I loved him and would be there when he came back (ok i was only 11!). I look at my son and think "he would be dead in boot camp!". I loved Gil and I love him now and would love to have a photo.I would like to have it to post at the virtual wall online. it is a wonderful site.
Hope u can help.
If anyone has any pictures or knew Gilbert, please contact jackie at [email protected]
with deep respect,
jackie
I have to commend you for the time and effort you have put into this site. I have just discovered it today, and I have sat and shed many tears, for our men and women who fought and gave their lives, hearts, and souls for all of us in the USA and they continue to do so.
My heart goes to all of the families and friends who have lost their loved ones, and those families that still suffer the consequences of the battle along with our service people.... I have seen what Vietnam did both physically and mentally to our men and women of the service.... Thankyou Bill for doing this site for all of us civilians who never stepped foot in a country during time of unrest. It sure has a way of giving you a "wake up" call, thinking how very lucky we are to be a U.S.citizen .
Thank you again Bill, for the time and many hours you put into this, you are also a true Hero for many I'm sure.
Beverly Bryant
[email protected]
Note: The Vietnam Vets Home Page is not a one-man show. This tribute goes out to the entire VVHP platoon.....Bill
Linda Sugden
I was searching for the name Cary Siler, and didn't find anything. I would like to add his name. I don't have much information, only that he was from Springdale, AR, and he died in Viet Nam.
I went to school with Cary, he was a wonderful young man, and he gave his life for our great country, I would just like to see his name added, I have never forgotten him in all these years.
Thank you,
Bonnie Anderson Hutchinson
Roger was killed march 28 1971 at L.Z. Mary Ann. Roger was only 20 years old, and was married for two years. Roger went on R. R. to Hawaii in Nov 1970. that's when his wife got pregnant with his child.
Roger, you had a baby boy who is now 30 years old and graduated from college. Your wife is a special education teacher. both of them are doing fine.there's not a day that goes bye that you're not thought of and missed.
May god bless you and keep you in his loving arms.
a fellow vet.
If you knew Roger, please contact Tom McAndrews .
His second tour, in 1970, he was the XO of a Cobra squadron called "Death Dealers." I don't know where this was.
My Dad was never involved with other veterans, with veteran organizations. I never really understood why, I think it would have helped him. But when I went to the Gulf War, he was very proud and sent me some nice letters which I kept.
I can't really tell any stories about what a wonderful human being my Dad was; he was my Dad and I'm most certainly from his mold. He was a hard, lonely man, too concerned with the past. He was certainly haunted by his experiences in Viet Nam.
My Dad always instilled in me and my brothers a sense of honor, of right and wrong, of what is the right way to act with dignity. This is his legacy to us. I miss you, Dad, and I hope you finally found the peace you deserve.
I'm proud of you.
Your son,
Eric
contact Eric by email at [email protected]
Bob and I grew up on the same block on the south side of Chicago, we went to grade school together. Bob quit high school in his 3rd year and joined the Marines. He went to Viet Nam for his 1st tour and returned home safely. After high school I enlisted in the Army. While on leave before I was going to Viet Nam Bob called me and told me that he had volunteered to go back for a 2nd tour. Our parents who were friends had a get together for both us before we left.
That night as we were parting, Bob told me that he would most likely not make it back alive. I laughed it off and told him we meet when we got back. In June of 1967 as we were both in country about six months I received a letter from my parents. Inside was a newspaper article describing how Bob was killed in action.
I will never forget that day, I can remember it like it was yesterday. When I came home my mother told be about the day Bob's mother was notified. She was washing her front door window when a car pulled up in front of her house and two Marines got out. She instantly knew she had lost her son. I can't seem to get that scene out of my mind after all these years. Bob's parents were great people and paid the ultimate price.
Mrs. Miller would go and sit at Bob's grave for hours at a time. They never recovered, how could they? I've lost touch with his family over the years and I'm sure they have both passed away by now. The only comfort is that I'm sure they are together now in a much better place. There is still much pain left from that war.
My mother passed away not long after I came home at the age of 46. She is a casualty of the war also. My dad explained that she worried about me constantly and when Bob was killed it really devastated her. I think about Bob often and how much life he missed. He was a great American and Marine.
Tom Bull, 25th MP Co. 25th Inf. Div. Cu Chi 1967
He shipped out of Shepard, Air force Base. He was proud to have served. Uncle Bobby didn't talk about Nam much when i was small, but as i grew older, i discovered some of the horror that he had gone thru, and still tried to live with till he died. You see, he used to load the Agent Orange on the planes,and helped to patch the planes when they would come in all shot to doll rags. And watch as they took the bodies out, knowing that he could do nothing. He did his time, and now, after more than 30 years, has finally found his peace.
If anyone remembers serving with him, please contact me at: [email protected]
AND THE ANGELS TOOK HIM HOME.
Passed away on Jan. 19, 1995 in Sugar Land, Texas.
Even though, he survived a helicopter crash, all 13 of his buddies were killed. He suffered from Survivor guilt and finally took his own life. He was my mentor, and my friend.
He served his country in Vietnam and his state at the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-I.D., the Central unit as a Substance Abuse Counselor and Administrator for 11 years. Mike or Mac as we called him lovingly, could look past a guys crime and see a angry, hurting, little boy who needed his love and guidance. He was loved by many.
His ashes were spread at The Wall in Washington, D.C. It's been years since the Vietnam War, but the casualties continue to mount up. More than 60,000 died, and many others returned with health problems, addiction problems, and emotional problems. The war cost Billions of dollars in monetary terms, but the loss to human life was the worst.
Men like Mike didn't die in Vietnam but the innocent, fragile, little boys and girls who returned home still carried the pain. The prisons and institutions are filled with the tortured souls still living in the nightmares of their past. One more of God's children has gone home to be released from his pain and suffering.
God, comfort us still living who miss Mike so much.
dedicated by Sally Frederick Brown [former Treatment Specialist for the Central unit], in remembrance of Michael Henry McBurnette, who showed me that one person can make a difference.
Glen and I drank beer in Hicksville, Ohio when we were 17. We wrestled in the class of 1965 gym class. Our Schnapps plans got us banned from the Junior-Senior Class Picnic. One of his shipmates in his outfits tells us in his rememberance that Glen was known as "HEAVY" in the Navy Construction Battalion.
I kicked off to start the 8 football games our senior year. I was starting running guard. I had to try to block Glen in practice. He was HEAVY before he went into the Navy.
Aloha,
May God have mercy on us all?
Bob Byanski (B52-46-07)
[email protected]
GLEN CHARLES LUDBAN was born on April 23, 1947 and joined the Armed Forces while in GARRETT, IN.
He served as a E3 in the Navy. In 2 years of service, he attained the rank of E3/E4. He began a tour of duty on May 15, 1968.
On June 30, 1969, at the age of 22, GLEN CHARLES LUDBAN perished in the service of our country in South Vietnam, Quang Tri.
You can find GLEN CHARLES LUDBAN honored on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Panel 21W, Row 39.
My husband, Charles L. Smith, Jr. rank CPL/E4 (Dutch), was a US Marine during the Vietnam Conflict. He was shot on December 31, 1968, and as a result he was 100% disabled, paralized.
During his life, he had many medical problems as a result of this gunshot wound. Kidney transplant, heart valves, reconstructive bladder surgery and numerous other infections. On July 28, 2000 he passed away. The doctors and the VA Administration determined his cause of death was due to the gunshot wound.
Dutch was a very wonderful person. I remember watching his expression when the troops returned from the "Gulf War". Many feelings flowed that day, but he was so proud of those that served. I just wish his return would have had the same effect.
Recently, I inquired and requested his name be added to the Vietnam Memorial Wall.
Please remember him along with all the others this Memorial Day and the ones to come.
I am a better person having the privilege of being not only his wife, but his friend. He was proud to serve and never felt sorry for himself.
He is sadly missed.
Thank you.
Cathy
MY BROTHER SO PROUD AND TRUE, DIED IN COUNTRY. HE SUFFERED FOR MANY YEARS WITH SKIN LESIONS. THUS HIS DEMISE WAS CANCER AS A DIRECT RESULT OF EXPOSURE TO AGENT ORANGE.
HE NEVER STOPPED BELIEVING IN HIS COUNTRY...TO DO OR DIE, SEMPER FI...WHEN HE WENT INTO REMISSION AFTER HIS FIRST BOUT WITH CANCER AND WAR BROKE OUT, WHERE OUR TROOPS WERE COMBATING IN SAUDI ARABIA, HE WAS READY.
HE HAD GREAT RESPECT FOR THE FLAG, OUR FREEDOM, AND ALL WHO SERVED. JIM ALWAYS HAD A STRONG SHOULDER TO LEAN ON, WAS ALWAYS A FRIEND AND A BROTHER. HE COULD ALWAYS MAKE ME LAUGH, EVEN IN MY DARKEST MOMENTS. SUCH A LOVE HE HAD FOR LIFE, AND SUCH INFECTOUS LAUGHTER. HE WAS A GO GETTER, NEVER A QUITER. ALWAYS STOOD FOR THE UNDERDOG.
WHEN THINGS GOT TOUGH...HE GOT TOUGHER, ALWAYS A MARINE. HE WAS MY BIG BROTHER, AND MY FRIEND. HE TAUGHT ME HOW TO ICE SKATE, FISH AND DEFEND MYSELF. HE TAUGHT ME HOW TO STAND AGAINST THE ODDS AND WIN. HE LOST HIS LIFE, BUT NOT HIS DIGNITY NOR HONOR.
HE PASSED HIS WAY AT HOME, SITTING IN HIS FAVORITE CHAIR, WATCHING HIS LAST SUNRISE.
JIMMY, I SALUTE YOU, LOVE AND MISS YOU VERY MUCH....MAY GOD HOLD YOU IN THE PALM OF HIS HAND.......
LOVE MARY
MARY AYLWARD-BOLDUC
In Memory of L/Cpl Miquel Keith {MOH Recepient Postu.}
1st Combined Action Group,3rd Combined Action Company, Combined Action Platoon 1-3-2.
KIA May 8,1970, And God Bless those who survied.
Kelly D.Matthews
CAP 1-3-2,69-70
YOU WERE ONLY IN MY SQUAD A FEW DAYS WHEN AN ENEMY SOLDIER , HIDING IN A BUSH , TOOK YOUR LIFE . YOU PROBABLY NEVER SAW IT COMING AS IT HAPPENED SO QUICKLY . BUT I DID SEE IT HAPPEN AND THAT MEMORY WILL BE WITH ME FOREVER .
I AM SO SORRY TO SAY THAT WE DID NOT GET THE ONE THAT SHOT YOU AS HE ESCAPED THROUGH A TUNNEL . YOU GAVE YOUR ALL THAT DAY AND WENT TO SEE GOD . I WAS WOUNDED A FEW MOMENTS AFTER YOU WERE HIT AND GOT A RIDE BACK TO THE STATES .
MANY TIMES I HAVE WONDERED WHY YOU DIED AND I LIVED . I HAD WALKED PAST THE SPOT WHERE YOU DIED JUST MOMENTS BEFORE YOU .
MAY GOD BLESS YOU BUDDY,
SGT
CARL BUMGARNER
[email protected]
I doubt whether I can answer that question for you. I am still trying to answer it for myself. I served with Colonel Martin, but only briefly. In that short time, I learned enough to know what kind of man he was. He was a good, honest, loving man. He dearly loved his wife, Susan, and his daughters, Jessie and Katie. He was a man of integrity and compassion. He dedicated his life to defending the United States Constitution and everything it represents. He loved soldiers and led them well. He understood that fundamental and immutable principle of military leadership: take care of your soldiers. In the end, he died taking care of his fellow soldiers and their families. In that sense his end, though tragic, was fitting.
I will never forget the day I met Colonel Martin. It was a Friday evening. A long, hard week was just about over. I was looking forward to a relaxing weekend with my family. Just as I was walking out the door, the phone rang. It was Colonel Martin. He was investigating a very sensitive allegation of officer misconduct. He needed legal advice and it couldn't wait. As an Army JAG officer and lawyer, it was my job to provide that advice. "O.K., sir, I'm on my way over," I replied. I hung up the phone and called my wife to tell her I would be coming home late again.
I met Colonel Martin at his headquarters. What I saw there amazed me. Before I went to Colonel Martin's office, I had thought I was busy. I was quickly disabused of that notion after watching him work for five minutes. He handled at least two-dozen issues in that time. The issues he resolved ranged in importance from urgent to crisis. My issue was near the bottom of his list. What was a priority for me, seemed merely routine for him. When Colonel Martin invited me into his office, he looked very tired. He had just returned from a training exercise with his 800-man light infantry battalion. His dusty field gear was neatly stacked in front of his desk. His eyes were red and raw from exhaustion. We started talking about the officer misconduct case he was investigating. I figured I'd break the ice and crack a few jokes about the case. We lawyers, after all, can be a little cynical. The things we see in our work tend to encourage cynicism. Colonel Martin smiled politely at my bad jokes, but didn't join in.
This was a serious matter for him. An officer's career was at stake, and he was determined to be fair and thorough. I quickly straightened up and got down to business. Just then, the phone rang. It was one of his daughters. Her hamster had died, and she was taking it pretty hard. Colonel Martin instantly transformed from tough infantryman into tender, devoted father. He spoke to his daughter so lovingly, that I, the cynical lawyer, was taken aback. "I know, honey, you loved that hamster. Yes, honey, we'll bury him in the back yard when I get home. I love you too, honey. Bye. Bye." He hung up the phone and then chuckled, "Boy, I was worried there for a minute. When she said one of the animals had died, at first I thought she was talking about my huntin' dog. Man, that would have torn me up." Then it was back to work. He didn't miss a beat.
He showed me the case file. The facts were lurid and embarrassing. Colonel Martin certainly had better things to do with his time than deal with this officer's brazen stupidity. But, Colonel Martin didn't indulge in self-pity, or complain about having to meet a nearly impossible deadline. Rather, he discussed his options, clarified his legal obligations, and thanked me for my time. As I left, I saw a worried, young Second Lieutenant waiting to see Colonel Martin about some other matter. I knew Colonel Martin was about to "professionally develop" the young officer for some mistake he had made. I walked away confident that the young man was in good hands.
I don't claim to have been Colonel Martin's friend, although I do wish I had known him better. I am just a fellow soldier who was influenced by the fine example he set. And now that Colonel Martin is dead, and I search for meaning in his death, I feel compelled to explain why I serve. To me, Colonel Martin's sacrifice and my service are related.
Why? Well, it's not that I consider myself to be like Colonel Martin. I know myself better than that. But I want to be like him. And that is something I, and everyone who takes an oath to preserve and defend the United States Constitution, have in common. We walk in the footsteps of giants. We are like kids clomping around in Daddy's shoes. We, like Colonel Martin and the service members who died on that foggy mountainside in Vietnam, are searching for our heroes.
I have thought about getting out of the service many times. I did get out once, but then thought better of it and came back in. I know, you've heard it all before. Life in the service is hard: frequent moves, low pay, constant deployments and extended absences from loved ones. Didn't we know enough to expect all that before we joined? If it's so bad, then why don't we just get out? It's an all-volunteer force; nobody is forcing us to stay. Yes, we know all that. Some of us are taking your advice. The economy is good, and there is money to be made. But more than just money makes some of us yearn for civilian life. We envy your roots. The chance to grow up, grow old, and die in the same community -- to own a home -- is very attractive. We live in a state of permanent transience. It's hard on us, but even harder on our families. It tears my heart apart to watch my kids say good bye to close friends, and try to make new ones in a strange place every two years. I made the decision to serve, but how can I keep forcing this on them? I will be deploying to Kosovo soon. My kids are anxious about it. I can see the pain and stress in their faces as we talk about what it will be like when Daddy leaves. All this makes a parent do some soul searching.
But then there are the times when it all seems crystal clear. We see a noncommissioned officer buy (and prepare!) thanksgiving dinner for a struggling young soldier and his family. We see a senior officer�s wife, like Susan Martin, help young military spouses deal with the stress and fear of a long deployment. We see our friends and comrades doing for others what someone else once did for them when they were in need. And then we feel like we're a part of something good, decent, and larger than ourselves.
We also remember that moment, years ago, when we first decided we wanted to be soldiers. We think about our heroes. We saw them on TV, in the movies, or we read about them in books. Maybe we heard about them in stories passed down through generations. For me, it was the World War II generation. When I played soldier, I dreamed of fighting Nazis at places like Omaha Beach, Anzio, and Bastogne. The GI's of World War II had such style and swagger. They carried themselves with the cocksure attitude of men who knew they were right. When I turned 17, I thought of my heroes, and joined the Army. When times got tough, I remembered my heroes and what they went through. The Army encouraged me to do so. My drill sergeants made sure I understood that I carried with me a great tradition of courage and sacrifice. My fellow trainees and I took these lessons to heart. Graduation from basic training is still one of the proudest days of my life. I had officially joined the ranks of my heroes. I was a GI, a dogface, an American soldier.
Nineteen years have passed since then. Much has changed. But one thing remains constant: I still want to be like my heroes. I still idolize men like Colonel Martin. He lived up to the example set by his heroes. Me? I am a work in progress. Why do I serve? I serve because I owe so much to those who came before me. If I can live up to the examples they set, I might just set an example for someone else. If I do that, then maybe I�ll have repaid the debt I owe. I don�t think I�m there yet. But hard work for a good cause can be ennobling. There will come a time when I see my dead heroes. When that time comes, I hope to be able to look Colonel Martin in the eye and say, "I kept the faith, sir."
The Vietnam War has claimed seven more American lives. Was it worth it? I don�t think that�s the right question. The better question is, are we worthy of the sacrifice? If we strive to be worthy of men like Lieutenant Colonel Marty Martin, the answer will always be yes.
Today (16 Apr) I turn 57. I will take a few moments, as I have every birthday for more than 30 years, to remember Dick Piatt who was KIA on this day in 1967.
We had just returned from SCUBA school at Subic, where we were virtually attached to each other for four weeks - diving buddies.
Dick was an outstanding Marine recon officer and a fine person. I miss him.
Semper Fi, Dick.
Submitted by Tim Renn
Gerald Paul USMC, HMM-163 66-68 Nam passed away on June 24, 2000
Patricia Paul (wife)
Gene Randolf Kennedy was my friend. He was 19 when he died on this day March 19, 1971, just outside of Khe Sanh. Randy never had a chance to live up to his potential.
Thank You
Jose L Garcia
I AM LOOKING FOR ANY ONE WHO MIGHT OF KNEW MY UNCLE. HE DIED THE YEAR I WAS BORN.
I WOULD OF LOVED TO HAVE GOT TO MEET HIM AND TELL HIM HOW VERY PROUD I AM OF HIM. IF YOU KNEW HIM PLEASE LET ME KNOW. HIS NAME WAS CHARLES RICHARD MCFARLIN. PEOPLE CALLED HIM "DICK". HE DIED ON OR AROUND 12-10-65 HE WAS 18. HE WAS IN THE MARINES. I THINK HE MIGHT OF DIED IN A TRUCK EXPLOSION.
THIS IS ALL I KNOW, THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP AND GOD BLESS
JANE
email Jane
Charles A. Schmaus, a 20 year resident of McHenry, Illinois, died in the Shreevport, Louisiana VA Hospital on March 26, 2001. He was 56.
At the ripe old age of 23, he was fondly called "Gramps" by the young men he served with in the Viet Nam War. Chuck was a beautiful person, but unfortunately tormented by the memories of a horrible war. Memories that he kept buried deep within his soul. For those of us who knew him and loved him, his leaving creates a void that will never be repaired.
Chuck joins his parents Mary and Charles and his youngest son Michael. He missed Michael so very much whom he lost less than 2 years ago. They are all together now and with the Grace of God living in a peace that we couldn't imagine in our wildest dreams.
He leaves behind our Daniel and my broken heart. He will be the love of my life unto eternity.
Gail Ann
Tribute to Frank Mebs that appeared in the Philidelphia, Pa. Inquirer on 16 July, 2000
Submitted by: Donald W. Aird , Vietnam Veteran
. Click on his name to send Don Email.
i miss him terribly
god bless you michael. see you when i see you
love,
your cousin
[email protected]or [email protected]
You are not truly gone as long as we keep you alive in our hearts. I miss you more and more everyday. I love you very much.
Your Son,
Matt
Rest in Peace. Your sis, Donna
On the chilly evening of October 29, 2000, my dear brother decided that it could go on no longer. He was only 52 years old. His name was Robert Vernon Payton from Ironton, Ohio. He had went when called to do his tour in the Vietnam killing fields from 1968-1970. But the nightmare came home with him. He suffered many long hard years with Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. So he spread out an American flag that he held dear and placed his dog tags around his neck, he then knelt down upon it as a symbol to his reasoning and with a rifle took his life. But he took so much more. He took with him knowledge, excitement, future laughter, memories and the very souls of the ones who loved him most. But what he has left is a host of family and friends who are now, too made victims of a long fought war.
I loved him as much as a younger sister could, even when I didn't understand, but that love wasn't enough or what was needed to have the torments of that conflict erased forever from his thoughts. That is what he did that fateful night. He was wounded in Vietnam, but it took 30 years for him to die.
Here is a poem that I wrote for him that was read at his funeral. I think that it describes to a small degree the torture that many good men suffer.
Your baby Sister, Floye Lorraine Payton Sherman.
Pilot of TV station 2 news chopper. Cause unknown at this time.
I will return to add updates. submitted by: C.W. Northcutt
He was only 43 years old. He now has four grandsons and one great-grandson and one great-granddaughter. He never got to see any of them. The first was born ten months after we lost him. We know he is in a perfect place now with our Lord. And will never have to fight another war. He now has his rewards for the horrors he suffered thru here on earth. His sweet and loving memories will forever live in the hearts of his wife, daughter and son.
His Loving Family Wife-Louise
Daughter-Cathy
Son-Tommy
Ronald Blakney was born in New Brunswich March 24,1947 and moved to Somerville Massachusetts where he grew up.He was a star athelete at places like Trum Field setting a long jump record that was not broken till a year or two before his death, He also played as the star quarter back on Somerville high school's Football team. He had numerous scholarships and awards. But he opted to work at the docks for a year then he joined the military in late 1966 and volunteered for the airborne.
He was assigned to Charlie company 1/503rd He was sent to fight in Dak To and fought with some of the bravest men in the world. He was in the battle of Dak To and saw more death than any one man should have to seen... His deeds earned him two bronze stars, an air medal, and Army Commedation with "V".... HE volunteered to be a door gunner but other than that we dont know what he did in Vietnam.
He was a good man haunted bye Vietnam and his memories,. He Slipped away The night of Feb 25, 1995. He missed his sons wedding by 5 months and his grand children by a year.. He is missed by his Family. A wife a daughter and two sons. His life was short but everyone he came into contact with will always remember old blue as all the african americans called him at his job for the city of Oakland california.. HE served from Aug 67- NOV 68 173d airborne...
HE IS WATCHING AND HEARING US SO IF YOU KNEW HIM SAY "AIRBORNE" TO A REAL HERO.
HIS LOVING SON
DOUGLAS STEPHENS
Albert R. Lumpkin
U.S. Marine Corps
Vietnam Veteran
3rd
Reconnaissance Battalion
Died on 9 December, 2000
I can't tell you how honored and humbled I am to stand before you today to say a few words to honor and remember Al Lumpkin. Some of us remember him as �Lumpy�. Many of you here today could and have presented eloquent tributes to Al - far better than I am capable of. So I thank you Karen for extending me this privilege and thank you all for your patience as I get through this. To Karen, my deepest sympathies. Joe, just a few weeks ago at the 3rd. recon reunion your father told us how proud of you he was. I am sorry for your loss. To Al's family, friends and loved ones, I also extend to you my deepest sympathies.
We here today knew Al in different ways and under different circumstances. Many of you got to enjoy Al more frequently than I did. As his loved ones, fellow agents, SWAT team members and his fishing and hunting buddies, you had the privilege of having Al in your lives each day.
I met Al 34 years ago when Al was a Recon Marine in 1966, first serving in 5th Recon and then serving in Charlie Company, 3rd Recon Bn.-RVN. Al also served with Alpha and Brave Companies, 3rd Recon Bn. during his second tour in Vietnam in 1967-68, which included a trip to Khe-Sahn where he served with distinction, courage and honor. A special bond that Al and I had, and his other 3rd Recon Bn. brothers, including some here today, was forged in Vietnam. Al Lumkin was my dearest friend in all the world. For Al and I at least, this bond developed to a large extent because of the humor we shared. We would often see the humor in things that few others could. Al had a wonderful sense of humor and a quick wit for every circumstance no matter how grim things were. Al made me smile just being around him. I hope these stories of Al will make you smile as you think of him, as they do me.
This black shirt I am wearing was a special gift from Al. It was 2 sizes to large, but he said it would shrink. Over the left pocket he had printed in yellow USMC - 3rd Recon, because he know I would like that. Over the right chest is the word Tripwire. This was Al's nickname for me. Al thought that was funny, because he knew I was embarrassed about the meaning of the word "tripwire". Therefore, he had it embossed on the shirt for all to see. The story goes this way. During training exercises I set off a booby trap. The instructor stopped the training and in a loud voice explained to everyone that I had just killed the men around me, which included Al. Al was the only one in hysterics, laughing. When the instructor asked Al what he thought was so funny about being killed, Al said, "It was worth it, you should have seen Merrihew's face when that thing went off!� I hadn't worn this shirt before this week. So Al, if you are watching, please notice, I'm finally wearing your damn shirt.
On one occasion in the jungles of Vietnam, after crossing leech valley, our patrol climbed up to high ground where there was a small clearing which overlooked the valley floor below. We set up a perimeter and began removing the leeches we picked up along the way. Al had to drop his trousers to remove a particular leech, which was uncomfortably attached to a certain body part. He asked the Corpsman for some Mercurochrome, but was handed iodine by mistake! The cussing and screaming that followed at the moment Al applied the iodine to the effected area echoed throughout the jungle! I never laughed so hard in my life! Can you imagine what the enemy must have thought, looking up to the clearing above and seeing this lone, red headed, bare assed marine holding his effected area, cussing and jumping up and down in full view? We credited Al that day for scaring a North Vietnamese company out of the valley, single handedly without firing a shot. Al had his own version of this story of course, and would reconstruct it at every opportunity. It looks like I'm finally getting the last true version told!
The Al Lumpkin I knew would enjoy knowing I actually told this story at a time like this. I believe he'd be sorely disappointed in me if I hadn't. So, the telling of this silly story at this particular time, is for you Al.
Al made me smile and he made me laugh and made everyone around him feel good about them selves and that is a wonderful gift. Al cared about life and cared for the welfare of others. I am grateful that Al got to share this gift with me and others and that I had the honor to know Al and call him my friend and my brother.
Please keep your special memories of Al Lumpkin alive in your hearts and when you think of him, smile. Al would want that.
May God bless each one of you and may He grant you the peace that passes all understanding during your grieving for Al Lumpkin.
Goodbye Al, I love you and Semper Fidelis!
Al Lumpkin at Camp Reasoner, Vietnam. Sept-Oct '66
Gents/Ladies: Al's funeral was a piece of work. Police from every where attended along with a contingent of Marines ( active duty Marines ) that hunted with Al. Standing room only. It took 35 minutes to just get in the place from the entrance and then try to find a place to stand. John Benick and wife Karen drove thru ice storms to get there and were the best support and tonic for me then I can ever tell you. John Benick was magnificent, he pulled double duty while he did his own grieving he helped me get thru it all, all the while keeping things light and in perspective. Karen and John deserve a medal.
.........
He was a loving son and brother who gave his all to the Freedom of our County.
Our memory of him will linger in our hearts forever. He was a true hero and a brave soldier.
His loving sister,
Hazel
YOU ARE GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN. WE HAVE ALL SUFFERED A GREAT LOSS - NOT ONLY HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS BUT HIS AIR FORCE FAMILY AS WELL.
GOODBYE FROM YOUR SISTER MARY LEE, YOUR MOM, AND YOUR NIECES TARA AND MEGAN
We are sad to announce John L. Levitow, a true American and hero, passed away on the 8th of November at his home in Connecticut after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was a proud PLA member. It was an honor to have him be a part of our organization. He was 55.
http://www.loadmaster-pla.org/
Vietnam Veteran
Specialist Four
Company B, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry, 4th Infantry
Division
Republic of Vietnam
He astutely surmounted extremely adverse conditions to obtain consistently superior results. Through diligence and determination he invariably accomplished every task with dispatch and efficiency. His unrelenting loyalty, initiative and perseverance brought him wide acclaim and inspired others to strive for maximum achievement. Selflessly working long and arduous hours, he has contributed significantly to the success of the allied effort. His commendable performance was in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflects distinct credit upon himself and the United States Army.
He was also awarded with the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal Marksman (Rifle), Two Overseas Service Medals, Combat Infantry Badge
Efrain Berrios Rivera was honorably discharged from the United States Army on the 1st day of June of 1974. The certificate was awarded as a testimonial of Honest and Faithful Service.
Efrain is my brother.
He will live in my heart forever.
I love you,
Frankie.
Your sister, Zory
Marlin, we are all better for having known you, however brief it may have been. You live in us through your smile, your warmth, and the generosity of your heart. You will never be forgotten.
March 30 1937-October 30 1968
William E. Gibson
CPL. U.S.M.C
VIETNAM DA-NANG 1965-1966
RADIO
OPERATOR
04/41 TO 06/99
I CAN ONLY BE GLAD THAT HIS PAIN IS NO LONGER WITH HIM EVERY DAY. HE WAS A LOVING FATHER , HUSBAND, GRANDFATHER , SON, BROTHER, AND ONE HELL OF A UNITED STATES MARINE.
IT WAS ONCE SAID MARINES NEVER DIE ,THEY JUST FADE AWAY INTO THE SUNSET.
SEMPER-FI
GOODBYE SIR
WE ALL LOVE YOU VERY MUCH
He was 36 years old; he was also a Korean War Vet 51-52; a soldier's soldier; 11B40.
I arrived in Vietnam Aug 69-Aug70 at the age of 19; and was one of the lucky ones who returned.
What a waste of good soldiers.
Ray E. Wood, MSgt. USAF/ret. 89
Security Police
Their bodies were not recovered
They are remembered by their team mates from Partyline One, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division
May they rest in Peace
Wuv ya lots,
your daughter,
Eryka
Marcel E. Bligh was in vietnam for two tour, being honored with 3 purple heart, combat infantryman badge, vietnam campaign ribbon, vietnam service medal, national defense service mdl, parachutist badge, gallantry cross w/bronze star, bronze star w/v device, army commendation medal w/v device.
But, there is one honor missing from is long list, and it's the one that us, his sons and daughter never had the time to give him, the medal of honor for being there during the not long enought time we had the chance to knew how good and beautyfull human being that you where !! We miss you so much dad ...
love you....
sebastien, martin, cindy and is wife colette
email sebastian at: [email protected]
In Memory Of William W. Hadachek, USAF
366th Tatical Fighter Wing
Served in Vietnam 1966-1967
DaNang Vietnam
Died May 8,2000
Wegener's Granulomatosis
You are sadly missed
He left behind myself, 3 children a sister and an elderly mother. It often seems apropros (don't know if I spelled it right) that he died on July 4th, Our country's day of independence, Although I got an insult amount from the law suit, I guess I am luckier than in lot of other window's, in that I had no problem in getting DIC from the Veteran's Administration. When he came home from Nam, he stayed in the reserves until the Gulf War started. We always thought the war was behind us. Little did we know that it would come back to haunt us 25 years later.
Howie was a wonderful husband and a even more wonderful father. His spent his last 10 months in unbelievable pain which was only somewhat lessened by the use of morphine. It is only recently that I have become aware of all the sites out there related to AO. I really would like to place a memorial to him on this the anniversary of his death.
Thanks very much. Debra Zwilling
He was a Member of Hanover, PA VFW, American Legion
Sgt. Charles Johnson, KIA June 13, 1969. Killed while leading a long range reconnaissance patrol in the Ba Long valley.
It has been 30 Years and My Mother who has been wonderful to my brother and I has never remarried. I guess he will always be her High School Sweetheart.
Anyone that may have known my dad or where I may find more information about him please contact me. Thank you for your time and May God Bless You.
Kenneth Ward. [email protected]
SHIRLYN MARSHALL RICE Email to: [email protected]
Why I am writing this letter, I wanted to give him one last salute (even though he probably would not accept it, [he was to humble.].) When he was over in Vietnam, he was exposed to agent orange, and this exposure finally put him to rest. Even when the cancer was doubling him over in pain, he still held his head up high.
I may be a combat veteran from the Gulf War (I was a gunner on a M1A1TANK), my heart goes out to all those Vietnam Veterans. If they want to write, my e-mail address is: [email protected]
A man that was loved by all that knew him. A father of three sons, brother to five brothers and three sisters, a friend to all who knew him.
My father spent the next 30 years in and out of the military, being discharged from the Army National Guard just three weeks before he passed away.
Doug was killed September 15, 1968 near Camp Rockpile in Quang Tri Province. Doug was an automatic rifleman in the 1st platoon. His unit came under sniper fire coming back from a night listening post. His commanding officer was Lt. T.F. Rudd, Jr.
i would love to hear from anybody that knew or served with doug. he sent home pictures and letters, but unfortunately only gave us first names of his buddies. if there is anywhere else i need to post this please let me know. my e-mail address is [email protected]
thanks so much
This is probably the hardest thing I've ever done in my life. It is almost 6 months now and I still haven't realized that my father,who was so strong, who has been through so much in his life, was overpowered by LUNG CANCER with metastasis to his liver up to his brain. (...agent orange?...)
Unfortunatelly, I don't know much about his time in vietnam. He never talked about it. All I know is that he did two tours in vietnam. He served his country in honour, he was given a PURPLE HEART and many other medals. I also know that he was a haunted man, he came back having a living body and a dead soul but he tried hard to led a normal life.
He got married to Anastasia Papadopoulou-Mouzourakis who gave birth to their three children: katherin Mouzourakis 27, Mike and Panos Mouzourakis 25. Both Mike and Panos have joined the U.S. Army.
After his retirement he lived in Greece in a beautiful village near the sea (he loved fishing). I'm sure he was trying to find peace in his life. His only wish was to be burried in a military way, with the honour I strongly believe he deserved. When I informed the American Embassy in Greece about his death and his last wish I was told that it was impossible to have such a funeral.
The only thing he ever asked from his country was NOT given to him.
Daddy our road was long and difficult, I've never thought that I would miss you so much. We had our differences but now I know more than ever that in my own strange way I have always loved you with all the power of my heart. I was and will always be so proud of you.
I know you are in heaven's peace now -I remember you telling the doctors: "when I die I'll go to heaven because I had been to hell"- and I know you are watching and protecting me, I feel you, I sometimes can smell you. Please don't stop, knowing you are still here for me makes me go on.
Jim King [email protected]
HE IS GREATLY MISSED.
THIS IS SENT BY HIS MOTHER DOROTHY M BURG AT E-MAIL [email protected]"
My comrade in arms, my drinking buddy and my confidant, no greater friend can any person hope for in this life. Good night dear buddy and I pray that there's better beer where you are now.
To all my comrades of the un-authorized COS-DIV 16 and PCF 15, wherever life has taken you, God bless.
Michael A. Turley, BSN 2nd USN,
Syracuse, NY
Debbie
How are they doing?
I just recently found the status of this brave soul. No he did not come home. In fact it took 20 plus years for him to return to the country he gave his life for.
Why did it take so long?
What is wrong with the government who can walk away from these men.
I have so many UN answered questions-But the most important question of all is: I would like to hear from his family or anyone who knew of him. I now wear with pride his "KIA" bracelet.
LTCOL James W. Widdis jr. is from Newark NJ He went down in Laos around the Ban Karai Pass . Unit: 609th Special Operations Squadron.
DOB: 3/July/1939 .
I have done my own personal memorial in preserving his fine name and what he gave for this country.
I am now a proud wife of a Vietnam vet. who still carries so much guilt & pain. and the more I learn the more I get so upset that the government could do and would do something so... Just for political reasons did they walk away from our men.
So anyone out there who has information please contact me: [email protected]
God Bless all of you
Judy
A SPECIAL THANKS TO MY HUSBAND WHO SERVED 2 TOURS IN VIETNAM. HE PASSED AWAY FROM AGENT ORGANE AND THE V.A. RATED HIM 100% BILL IS SADLY MISSED BY HIS 2 SONS AND 2 DAUGHTERS.
BILL I LOVE YOU. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE WITH ME IN MY HEART.
YOUR LOVING WIFE, SANDI
email sandy at [email protected]
BORN: MARCH 11, 1946
KILLED: SEPT. 4, 1969
MY BEST FRIEND IN THE
WHOLE WORLD. HE WAS TO YOUNG TO DIE. HE LOVED LIFE AND HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
IT IS STILL HARD AFTER ALL THESE YEARS TO BELIVE THAT HE IS GONE. WE ALL STILL
MISS HIM.
LOVE, DON & KATE WEBSTER
Don was an MP when he retired in 1981. He was an Air Traffic Controller while in Viet Nam in 1967-68. He always was proud of his service in the Army and what he could do for his country. He never gave up on anything and fought the cancer bravely and with a positive outlook. He fought until he could fight no more. Now he is at peace.
Sandi Heath
Winter Garden, Florida
Joseph T. Barlow
U.S. Army
1st (Mech) 5th Infantry
25th Infantry
Division, Cu Chi 1966
Vietnam Veteran
February 3, 1944 - May 16, 2000
All of us who shared a wonderful evening with him the Saturday before his sudden death, a big table of Vietnam vets talking, laughing and having a good time, will cherish forever the memory of that last happy time together. We'll miss him very much, as will his family and all of his many friends.
Joe wrote this poem about his brother soldier�
Twenty years,
Have come and gone;
Since I saw my brother's
face.
And no one else,
I have ever met;
Could ever take his
place.
Only together,
For one short year;
But how that time was
spent.
Laughter and sorrow,
Our caring , our sharing;
The days that
have since went.
My brother is back,
We have met once more;
And the
tears poured down my face.
And this I know,
Because of him;
This
world is a better place.
We looked in sorrow,
Upon the granite
wall;
And I thought about my life.
And how our Brothers,
Who were
oh so young;
Never finished out their lives.
The sorrow and
tears,
My memories of you all;
Will never leave my head.
And this I
know,
No matter how long;
I'll never ever forget."
The son of Mamie Gresham Rosenberg and the late Robert L. Rosenberg, he was born July 30, 1946, in Middletown. Mr. Rosenberg was a member of Vietnam Veterans of America; 3rd Recon Association RVN; and served in the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam. Survivors include his wife, Caroline Ong, at home; one son, James Edward Rosenberg Jr. and his wife, Sandy of the state of Florida; one daughter, Doreen Rosenberg of Milford, Pa.; two stepsons, Kevin Tan and Kaiser Tan, both of Walden; his mother, Mamie G. Rosenberg of Montgomery; two sisters, Janie Maglione and her husband, Bob and Lucy Rosenberg, all of Montgomery; two brothers, Robert J. Rosenberg and Randy Rosenberg, both of Montgomery; one granddaughter; and nieces and nephews.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, May 22, at the Overhiser Funeral Home, 78 Union St., Montgomery. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m.Tuesday, May 23, at the funeral home. The Rev. Brian Randazzo will officiate.Burial will be in Wallkill Cemetery, Walden.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Vietnam Veterans of Orange County or Walden Memorial Post 2946 VFW of Walden. Arrangements were made by Millspaugh Funeral Directors, Walden.
Sent in by Vietnam Veteran, William J. Moser
Terry Anderson
Sgt. U.S. Marine Corps
Vietnam Veteran
3rd
Reconnaissance Battalion
Died 13 April, 1999
Terry Anderson left this world on April, 13, 1999, He will be missed by his brothers of 3rd Recon , as well as his family. However, he will not be forgotten.
A Hand Salute to you Terry , May you rest in peace with the rest of our brothers that have gone before us.
Semper Fi
Stan (doc) Sellers
Click Here to see a picture of Terry and his Family
He was a Marine with the 2nd battalion, 4th marines
his sister
janet eckenroad kerry
If you knew Ronnie, would you please contact me at:
janet eckenroad kerry
Bob served two tours in Viet Nam First tour with "H" Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines and the second tour with "A" Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion (Dog Handler).
Bob passed away on December 31st 1999 with complications from Cancer. Bob worked at a Vet Center as a team leader and councilor that helped many Vets suffering from PTSD. He will be sorely missed. He left behind a wife and two kids. He was noted for going that extra mile to assist veterans.
The following tribute to Bob was written by a fellow veteran.
Broken toy soldiers lay in a pile
No one has played with them for quite a
while
Once they were shiny and brand new
But now they are broken and
thrown all askew
Who ever had them didn't want them anymore
You see
they were broken, tired, and torn
One day a man picked them up and made them
like new
He mended their bodies and their minds too
He told them they
had value
That they were one of a kind
They believed him and stood erect
for the very first time
The man was Bob Brelle, a Marine and a
healer
The toy soldiers thanked him by singing the Marine Corps Hymn
and
ending it with a loud semper Fi.
Written by Sp/4 George C. Fallon
101st Airborne Division
1st Brigade
(Separate), Viet Nam,
68-69
Adrian Edward "Eddie" Sigler
U.S. Army
Vietnam Veteran
Troop A,
1st Squadron, 4th Cav
KIA 19 February, 1968
ADRIAN EDWARD SIGLER "EDDIE"
His captain's name at the time of his death was Frederick W. Shirley and the chaplain was captain Judson P. Nelson.
H e was born in Hudson, New York in 1937. He died when his tank was blown up while guarding a water treatment plant at THU DUC outside Saigon on February 19th,1968.
Please if anyone has any information at all....it would mean so much to me.Thank You.
Please contact me: PAM [email protected]
We fought in the Central Highlands together, and even though we didn't speak as often as we should have, we still loved and respected one another to the end.
My heart hurts and I miss him so. Lance D.Cayne, his friend.
I LOVED YOU DUCKY AND TRULY HOPE EVERYONE WHO PARTAKES OF THEIR CONSTUTIONAL RIGHTS COULD KNOW WHAT BELOVED ONES LIKE YOU AND OTHERS GAVE SO THEY COULD HAVE THE FREEDOM THEY ENJOY.
IF ANYONE KNEW LARRY PLEASE RELATE MEMORIES TO ME .
JAMES HAZELBAKER,
[email protected]
His battalion gave him a Braille watch.
Austin lost his eyes and three fingers and a thumb but I never once heard him complain. He once stated , "I would rather do without my sight than not have tried to save the sergeants life. I couldn't have lived with myself."
We all love and miss you.
Submitted by his little sis
[email protected]
Terry D. Corvin, former SSG was found dead in his home the first week of February, 2000. He had been dead about a week. Terry was 100% service connected disabled with PTSD. He never got over his tour in Vietnam, and as far as I am concerned his name should be on that wall in Washington with the other 60,000.
RIP old pal.
I have a better understanding of service men thanks to this wonderful person who I had the great fourtune of knowing and loving for twenty years.
He will not be forgotten.
Loving wife, Ruby Bush
Each day he lived, his body ravished with agent orange germs, he was proud of the men he served with in Vietnam. He didn't get to see the happiest day of his life before him - the day our first grandchild was born. I tell our grandson tales of his grandfather and he is a blessing to us all for he looks so much like his grandfather.
Thanks and you continued support for our Nations Finest is appreciated.
Shelia Winsett
Widow of Vietnam Veteran
Virgil Byron Terwilliger
L/Cpl U.S. Marine Corps
Vietnam Veteran
KIA 13 March 1967
Virgil,
Today is March 13th. The day you died 33 years ago. How can I begin to describe the impact your lost had on us. For the longest time I used to blame myself for your death. Why? A few days before we were notified of your death, I had a dream [nightmare] that Loretta came in the back door of the cafeteria at school to tell me you had been killed. That is exactly what happened. The minute I saw her that day, I fell to my knees screaming. If I hadn't had that dream. Did it come to me at the moment of your death. Who knows?
We all miss you and talk of you often. All the boys live out of state now, so it is just us three girls who live here to take care of Dad. Mom is with you now so take care of her. Give her my Love also. I have a feeling Dad will be joining you soon, so watch for him. Oh,don't walk to fast on your journey because someday I want to give you a hug again. When it is my time,come and get me please. We have so many years to catch up on.
I love you and miss you so desperately.
Your loving sister,
Linda
Here is another Picture of Virgil taken right after he completed boot camp
Virgil was the 7th child of 12 children. He is survived by his father,5 brothers,and 3 sisters. He is preceded by 2 brothers and 1 sister. Our mother passed on in 1989 and she was buried with her Gold Star Pin.
We will celebrate his life and mourn his death forever.
101st ABN Division, Tuy Hoa, RVN, KIA Jan 1966
More than all the above Dad was the father of eight children, six boys and two girls who love him. He would have retired in a few months. A Jumpmaster, member of the Army's rifle team, Green Beret, receiver of the General Patton Award for Excellence, and numerous other soldier achievements. Most of all he was a Dad. The kind that brought home worn out parachutes for the kids to play with, telescopes from the range for the weekend to look at the stars. The kind of Dad that would take you off in the car for a spanking with your brothers and end up at the ice cream shop.
Mom got Alzheimer's a few years ago, she doesn't know us anymore. I only hope that their love for each other transcends all the misery and pain she suffered here. Raising us was not easy.
As his oldest son I miss him a lot. As I reach my fiftieth year my own mortality looms in an awesome way. I wish I could speak with him, how did you deal with it Dad.
The 101st Airborne Division is building a new monument at Fort Campbell, KY. I'm proud to know that Dad's name will be there among his "Brothers in Arms".
I guess in our own ways we all have a "Rendezvous with Destiny".
Detachment TEAM A-101; 5th SPECIAL FORCES GROUP, VIETNAM. Listed as MIA Feb. 7th, 1968, at the Lang Vei camp while fighting NVA PT-76 Tanks as they overran the base at the start of the TET Offensive, starting the battle for Khe Sanh.
Your courage and dedication to the USA will not be forgotten!!!
If you knew Daniel please contact Don Phillips
decided they had enough of this world
johns was quite some time ago, don's was just a few yrs ago...macv-sog
if you served with either please e-mail me
he went to phu hep with a helicopter assult group and i went to chu chi ..my last letter in th e upper left hand corner he wrote WAR IS HELL...i received word that he had flown a mission he did not have to fly...he filled in for a fellow soldier who had become sick... sp/5 richard s dennison was a crew chief on a chinook. somehow and somewhere ric's chinook collided with another american helicopter...all was lost ...
.if anybody knows of this incident or just knows ric please e-mail me... [email protected].....
.thanks ..........peace
Jack received the bronze star for acts of bravery during combat. He gave credit to his ability to use a shot gun in combat to his experience of hunting in the mountains of WV and Ky.
Jack was my brother. The fifth child of seven and the third son. Jack is missed by all that knew him.
May the Lord Jesus Christ bless each of you.
Sincerely,
Bro. Frank
Prater
http://community.webtv.net/frankprater/ChristianAssembly
MY HUSBAND DONALD LEE MAIDEN CSM (RETIRED) PASSED AWAY JANUARY 21, 1998 DUE TO LUNG CANCER. ALTHOUGH VA HAS SAID IT'S NOT SERVICE RELATED FROM HIS STAY IN VIETNAM I BELIEVE DIFFERENT. IT'S A SHAME THAT ALL OF THESE MEN SERVED THEIR COUNTRY AND THEY ARE STILL NOT BEING RECOGNIZED.
I KNOW MY HUSBAND WAS VERY PROUD TO HAVE SERVED HIS COUNTRY. 23 YEARS. AFTER RETIRING HE TAUGHT J.R.O.T.C. IN INDIANAPOLIS PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOR 18.5 YEARS BEFORE DYING OF CANCER.
TO ALL YOU GUYS WHO HAVE SERVED, MY BLESSINGS AND HEART FELT APPRECIATION FOR A JOB WELL DONE.
MY HUSBAND IS SADLY MISSED BY FAMILY AND FRIENDS BUT NOT FORGOTTEN.
MADELINE MAIDEN
John W.W. Cook, Jr.
Warrant Officer
Helicopter Pilot
Born December 13, 1946
Wounded February 19, 1968
Died of wounds
February 29, 1968
Panel 42E, Line 003
Each of us lucky enough to be his friend considered him to be our best friend, and he was. He never spoke an unkind or disrespectful word about his parents or his friends. He was truly a remarkable young man. Our world would be better off with more young men like him.
See http://gnv.fdt.net/~/Househead.htm
http://web2.airmail.net/glad13/honor.htm
http://web2.airmail.net/glad13
Read "Writings on the Wall" by Jan Scruggs available from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation.
Also "SOG: The Secret Wars of America's Commandos in Vietnam" by John Plaster. An account of the mission on which John was shot down begins around page 201 in the hardback and page 210 in the paperback.
Though John's name isn't given in the text, it is the same incident for which SFC Fred Zabitosky was awarded the Medal of Honor. I never got the opportunity to thank SFC Zabitosky for what he did trying to save my friend.
Please see
http://www.mishalov.com/Zabitosky.html
I guess everyone who lost a relative has probably had this occur. Uncle Chester was awarded the Purple Heart and 2 Oak Leaf Clusters. I don't know much about military awards, but have been told that 2 Oak Leaf Clusters meant he was a hero. I don't know if the person who told me that was just trying to make me feel better, but I do know that all the men and women who lost their lives in Viet Nam are heros!
We were given one story about his death, but my aunt just recently told me that she received a letter from a man who was with Uncle Chester when he died and that he offered to tell her the truth about his death. She wrote back requesting this information, but that gentleman had also given his life.
If anyone knew my Uncle either at home in Arlington, Texas or in Viet Nam, please write me at: Jana Jordan or this other email at Jana Jordan ; or to my father, his brother at Preston Jordan
Thank you for reading about my uncle, and I still miss him so much!
Jana Jordan
Tommy Martinez
U.S. Army
Combat Engineer, Vietnam
Rawlins,
Wyoming
Died 1 January 2000
Semper Fi!......Peace & Prayers......Your Brothers
Spouse Jean
My grandfather, Authur Murray, felt Gary was doing what his country called him to do. My grandmother, Betty Caroline was afraid for him to go. So much that she hid his draft notice from everyone until MPs came knocking on the door. Grandpa was livid at Granny. 9 months later, the terrible news was delivered, and they never slept again in the same bed.
There aren't enough tributes to give these guys. No wall is big enough.
Sunday January 2 12:54 PM ET Elmo Zumwalt, Vietnam-Era U.S. Admiral, Dies at 79 DURHAM, N.C. (Reuters) - Retired Adm. Elmo R. Zumwalt Jr., who was commander of U.S. naval operations during part of the Vietnam War, died early on Sunday at the age of 79 at a North Carolina hospital, a family spokesman said. Zumwalt died at 7:26 a.m. EST at the Duke University Medical Center, a hospital spokesman said. The cause of death was not immediately given, but Zumwalt was treated at the hospital in September for a cancerous tumor in his chest and underwent surgery in early December to repair a perforated colon, the Raleigh News and Observer said on its Web site. Zumwalt was commander of naval operations in Vietnam from 1968 to 1970 and became chief of U.S. naval operations in July 1970 at the age of 49, making him the youngest officer to hold the post. He was famous for ``Z-Grams'' relaxing regulations that enlisted men considered demeaning and senseless. His changes permitted the wearing of beards and long hair if neatly maintained and of civilian clothes at shore installations. He also granted more free time in port. As the Navy's senior officer, Zumwalt increased the combat effectiveness of the U.S. fleet by outfitting ships with more sophisticated and efficient weapons. During the Vietnam War, he ordered much of the spraying of Agent Orange along Vietnamese waterways. In later years, Zumwalt blamed the defoliant, which contained the toxic chemical dioxin, for the death from cancer of his own son, Elmo Zumwalt III. His son was a navy lieutenant who commanded a river patrol boat in Vietnam and who fought under his father's command. Elmo Zumwalt III died at the age of 42 in 1988 of Hodgkin's disease and a rare kind of lymphoma. The elder Zumwalt said he did not regret ordering the use of Agent Orange because it reduced casualties by making it difficult for the enemy to hide and find food. More recently, he had supported efforts to add a plaque to the Vietnam Memorial in Washington honoring veterans who died from Agent Orange-related ailments. On a 1994 visit to Vietnam after his retirement from the Navy, Zumwalt proposed joint research on Agent Orange's effects. His visit made him the most senior wartime U.S. officer to visit Vietnam since the end of the war. He wrote two books. ``My Watch,'' published in 1976, recounted his Navy career and warned Americans about the Soviet naval threat. ``My Father, My Son,'' published in 1986, was co-written with his late son and recounted their Vietnam experiences and the illness that would later kill the son. Zumwalt was born in Tulare, California, and graduated cum laude from the Naval Academy in 1942. He served on destroyers during the Second World War and was awarded a Bronze Star for valor during the Battle of Leyte Gulf. In the Korean War, he was navigator of the battleship Wisconsin. Zumwalt retired as chief of naval operations in July 1974. He ran unsuccessfully in Virginia in 1976 as a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate. President Clinton awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 1998. Zumwalt lived in McLean, Virginia, and is survived by his wife, Mouza Coutelais-du-Roche Zumwalt, two daughters and a son.
An old Warrior took his last flight this morning, a WWII, Korean, Vietnam ERA Veteran. He never left CONUS as a war pilot, even tho he spent 30 years in the USMCR. He retired from the USMCR and NW Airlines. He joined after graduating from college during the Great War, he never went to Boot Camp or even OCS. He flew Transports across the US during all 3 wars. He had a pilots license before he went to college.
LTC Roy Bradley USMCR RET. was a former Commandant of the Upper Chattahoochee Detachment of the Marine Corps League here in Gainesville, GA.
I cried this morning when I heard that he now flies with the angels, I cry now as I type this.
I will miss you Roy, and will always love you. SEMPER FI !
Mark H. Gallant SR.
He lived in Floydada, Texas at the time of his death and was a Texan, born and bred! Stan was the sweetest, most loving spirited man I ever knew. Even though the injuries he received in Nam caused him great pain all the days of his life, he stayed on his feet until the end. Stan was awarded three Purple Hearts and many other citations. Shortly before his death, he gave me his miniature medals and asked me to make him a "wall" in my home if he did not survive his illness. I had bought Stan a clock which is a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall and I gave it to him a few days before his death. He held the clock and cried and was so very proud of it. He had me take it with us when we went to the hospital for his last battle.
Stan had told me several times that the Memorial Wall in D.C. had gone a long way in helping him overcome the hurt and sadness caused by the way he and the other returning soldiers were treated when they came home from Nam. So having a small replica of that Wall helped him in his last days. I have not made Stan's Wall yet, but I will. My grand-daughter took Stan's clock to school a while back to use as part of a report on the Vietnam War Memorial Wall. Stan would be so proud of her doing that. A little story about Stan will help anyone understand Stan's beautiful heart better than anything else I could say about him...
We went to a State Park and lake near our home in February of 1999. There we met two WW2 veterans and visited with them. When we started to leave them, Stan said what he ALWAYS said to any veteran..."Welcome home, soldier!" My heart breaks every time I think of that, but I know that Stan has truly been welcomed home, now, and I know that now, at last, he can rest in peace. I love you Stan, and will until I draw my last breath and go to be where you are. I am so very proud to have known you and to have loved you and been loved by you. Rest in sweet peace, soldier, You're a hero, now.
God bless America!
Jean Williams
Floydada, Texas
[email protected]
A TRIBUTE TO A HERO
Dedicated to Sgt. Charles William Newkirk
1947-1999
What is the definition of a hero?
Would it be a man that voluntarily served 3 tours of duty in Vietnam; a man that was wounded 3 seperate times? Would it be a man that could survive the horrors of the Vietnam war; a man that could survive the sight of a booby trapped child, or a man that could survive time as a POW, where he watched his buddy killed? Would it be a man that spent time in Special Forces where he did things; that he didn't officially do , for the love of his country? Would it be a man that received numerous medals and awards; three purple hearts, to name but a few. And a man that despite all his contributions still had to fight the VA for any and all compensation due him?
Would it be a man who later survived a motorcycle accident, which killed his wife? Would it be a man that walked again despite doctors predictions? Would it be a man that lived with constant pain due to his broken back, and numerous injuries and never complained?
Would it be a man that allowed his eldest daughter to marry a Marine and move to Hawaii following high school graduation. Would it be a man that stood by and did all he could to help his two sons throughout all their pain and trouble. Or would it be a man that could survive the ups and downs of another teenage daughter? Do you think it would be a man with the courage to marry again and add two more sons and create a family?
Would it be a man that served society as a police officer and later a correctional officer, where he specialized in gang research and did his best to rehabilitate the prisoners?
Would it be a man that recently underwent regression therapy, where he re-lived his years in Vietnam in order to please the VA and hopefully increase his benefits, which resulted in the world's biggest heart finally withstanding all that it could and causing that massive heart attack?
Would it be the man that at the time of his death was the most highly decorated man buried at Camp Williams?
Or do you think it would be a man that gave everything he had to his country, his family and society and never expected anything in return?
Whatever your definition of a Hero may be, every definition fit my Dad?
Love you Dad!
written by Kimberly Newkirk-Earl
KIA 19 JULY 66
SPOKE TO SEVERAL TROOPERS THAT WERE THERE AT THE TIME WITH YOU. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU. THINK OF YOU OFTEN.
YOUR BROTHER
JERRY
His wife Charlene
feb.1,1952--dec.2 ,1999
Sky Beaver, companyB,8th enginer battalion,
1st. Cavalry Division (air mobil) .
Rep. of vietnam 1970.
The Army CommendationMedal for meritorious achievement (First Oak Leaf Cluster) Aug. 1970 to March 1971
The Army Commendation Medal for meritorious achievement - Jan. 15 1971, to Jan. 25, 1971
Spec. 4 The Air Medal - Sept 1970 to March 1971, Active participation in more than 25 aerial missions over hostile territory.
PFC The Army Commendation Medal for meritorious achievement (Second Oak Leaf Cluster) Dec. 2, 1970 to Dec. 4, 1970
Spec 5 The Army Commendation Medal for meritorious achievement - May 3, to May 31, 1971
He will be missed terribly !
RJ
Your loving brother,
Chuck
Contact Chuck at [email protected]
Beloved Husband and Father
My father served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1970. He was stationed on "the Trang" as a microwave tech. Even though he wasn't in the trenches, that war still changed him forever.
I was a newborn when he left and a toddler when he came back. I never knew the man they describe. I only knew the Father that had nightmares and told funny stories about a terrible place.
To all of you who survived but came back a whole different person. All my best.
TO DADDY..I MISS YOU.
Your loving daughter
Edana
He was 26 years old. His name is on panel 47W line 53 of the War Memorial. He was a wonderful person who loved his family, friends, and his country. When the Memorial Wall was officially opened, I went to Washington and did a rubbing of his name and sent it to his father. A parent never expects to outlive a child and it is a terrible tragedy when circumstances prevent the expected turn of events. May God Bless all the parents who have ever lost a child, whether war or sickness. And May God Bless, you, James Warren Smith. We will see you again in Heaven.
Linda Argabright Burns
a cousin
Michael William Dorton
U.S. Army
Vietnam Veteran
Died November 16,
1999
Preacher died on November 16, 1999 of a sudden and massive heart attack. He had come to my house celebrating his birthday just 2 weeks prior, and I am so grateful that I had that opportunity to see him. Preacher was a proud and patriotic Vietnam veteran, 4th Infantry Division. He loved his country and he loved his family and he loved his veteran brothers and he loved me. He was a minister and a good and decent man. I am proud of him, and proud that he was one of my best friends in this whole world.
He always said if he ever won the lottery, he would take all of the money, get a team together and go to Vietnam, to not come home till he had found every one of the missing Americans. He had a soul as big as the universe, a sense of humor like no other, and he will be missed by all of us, his friends and veteran brothers and sisters, his family and his community. He will not be forgotten.
Ride on Preacher!
Beverly
USAF veteran
I want you to know that your family has not forgotten your heroic deeds. Although you and I never met, I do bear your name and I will never let your memory fade as you are in my heart. The life that you gave your country will always be etched in our souls. Thank You My Cousin, Bless you and we know you are looking down at us from the Heavens above.
From; John Robert Ensell , Viet Vet.
MSgt USAF Ret.
Army Colonel Harry G. Summers Jr., 67; Noted Analyst of Vietnam War
Harry G. Summers Jr., 67, a retired Army colonel who wrote extensively about the Vietnam War and other areas of military history and who also was a frequent military analyst on television broadcasts during the Gulf War, died Nov. 14 at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He had diabetes and a heart ailment and died after a stroke.
In addition to books, magazine pieces and television broadcast work, Col. Summers had been a military affairs columnist for the Los Angeles Times Syndicate and had served as editor of the magazine Vietnam. Col. Summers, who was born in Kentucky, enlisted in the Army at the age of 15, hiding his correct age. He served in Korea during the Korean War and decided to make the Army his career. He received a commission in 1957.
Over the years, he graduated from the University of Maryland, the Army War College and the Army's Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kan. In the mid-1960s, he was wounded twice in Vietnam and twice was decorated for valor. "I was the second-to-the-last Army guy out of Vietnam," Col. Summers later recalled. "Flying from the roof of the embassy . . . was quite a searing experience."
In 1974, he returned to Saigon as a U.S. negotiator with North Vietnam on prisoner of war issues.
He served on the faculty of the Army War College and became a noted pioneer student of the military aspects of the Vietnam War. In 1982, the War College published his "On Strategy: The Vietnam War in Context," in which he advanced the theory that the major American failing was seeking the destruction of Viet Cong guerrillas operating in South Vietnam rather than the North Vietnamese army. He contended that on the battlefield itself, the U.S. military was tactically superior, and he cited a number of key victories. But strategically, he added, it failed in taking on the mission of pacification while trying to defeat the Viet Cong. The theory was embraced by many in the military but was roundly criticized by some officers who had left the Army and were more critical of U.S. strategic planning.
Col. Summers retired from active Army duty in 1985, but his interest in the Vietnam experience continued. In 1988, he became editor of Vietnam magazine, which, he said, was committed to trying "to tell the truth about Vietnam in all its complexities . . . with the realization that there's not one truth about Vietnam but many." Published by the Cowles History Group, the bimonthly magazine has an estimated 80,000 circulation.
In the 1990s, he was a highly sought lecturer throughout the military education system on the subject of warfare. He held the War College's Gen. Douglas MacArthur Chair. In 1993 and 1994, he held the Marine Corps University's Brig. Gen. H.L. Oppenheimer Chair of Warfighting Strategy, and in 1994 and 1995 the Chair of Military Affairs. In 1996, he held the Fleet Adm. Chester W. Nimitz Lectureship at the University of California, Berkeley. He also lectured at Stanford, Harvard, Georgetown and Vanderbilt universities. Col. Summers was a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the International Institute for Strategic Studies. He testified before Congress on strategic military issues and lectured at the White House and State Department.
During the Gulf War, he acted as a military analyst for NBC News, making more than 250 network television appearances, and was a frequent guest on Voice of America and National Public Radio.
A prolific and prize-winning writer, Col. Summers turned out a weekly military affairs column for the Los Angeles Times Syndicate. Previously U.S. News & World Report's chief military correspondent and contributing editor of the former Defense and Diplomacy magazine, he wrote articles and reviews for American Heritage, Atlantic Monthly, Harper's and New Republic.
His military decorations included two awards of both the Combat Infantryman's Badge and the Legion of Merit; a Silver Star; three awards of both the Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal; and two awards of both the Purple Heart and Air Medal. Col. Summers also won New York University's 1990 Olive Branch Award, the Veterans of Foreign War's 1991 News Media Award and the Vietnam Veterans of America's 1993 Excellence in the Arts award.
Survivors include his wife; two sons; and five grandchildren.
James Peter Johnson
U.S. Marine Corps
Vietnam Veteran
Died 1992
Thank you.
Donald Johnson, Sharon Johnson, Denise Johnson, Jerrald
Johnson, and James P. Johnson the 2nd.
Please email Don Johnson if you knew or served with his father Jim in Vietnam.
We miss our dad. If anyone has any information or stories to tell, please share them.
Andi, Alina and Joe
Please send us email if you knew our dad.
His name is James M. Farmer from Carthage, Mo. Born Aug 21. 1947 died Sept. 25, 1994 . ( Agent Orange ) . Was drafted back in 1966. I was only 6 at that time & only remember a little from that time. I remember the letters to home. Also when he came home on leave just in time to get pop to go to the hospital for appendicitis. I remember that well. Pop had been sick for 3 days & no one could get him to go. James came in an took 1 look at the ole man & told him to either put his pants on or he was takin him just as he was in his underwear.They no sooner got pop on the op. table when it burst.
I remember a lot of what my brother told me. He could always talk to me about ANYTHING. I always understood. When I was little it was stories like the dough balls my moms cakes were when they arrived. They had fun feeding them to the fish.As I got older he would tell me more things he could not tell the folks or others.
He was a good brother. Not perfect NONE of us are. He worked for a long time at Judy's Truck Stop in Jasper Mo. I miss my brother very much. And would like to see his name added. I don't remember what outfit he was with in the army. Only that they were some of the first.
Thank you. Sarah Farmer.
My father laughed a lot. He was the master of jokes. He could fool a fool. He knew many tricks and lots of jokes. He told me that he got them from his buddies in the Army. The men who fought with him he never forgot. He reminded me to never forget them either. He would say even though I didn't meet them they were still apart of me.
He fought that war over and over for most of my life. For 23 years he fought that war. He would dream of that war and fight in that war. I watched a man live his life the best he could with what he had. He had many painful memories of the war that wouldn't go away. The physical scars haunted him daily but he never let that war win.
My dad passed away Feburary 13, 1998 of a heart attack. When he passed he was happy now he can stop fighting and rest knowing that he had won the war. He beat this war that took his friends and left him searching for answers. I loved my dad and he loved his country. I hope this tribute lets his friends know that he was a true solider and he fought on and never forgot those who he lost and those he would never meet. You all are in our hearts and we love you....
Your Viet Nam Vet Daughter Sonya
I never knew my uncle as "normal Uncle Ralph." I knew that he loved me and the rest of my family. And every now and then glimmers of what I hope was the real Ralph shown through.
He did bring the a disjointed family together. He is now whole again in mind, body and spirit. To my brother, Kevin, this is the greatest gift that he could give you. Ralphie died on my brother's 25th birthday.
Ralphie, I will always hear your laughter when I need cheering up and I will always hear your prayers when I need help. Thanks for being a great uncle.
Kelley Knight
For my Brother, Frank, who never recovered from war and died of cancer years later
I watched him limp as he walked my way;
There was sadness in his eyes.
His clothes were ragged and wrinkled
And time seemed to have passed him
by.
He seemed like he didn't belong here,
And yet, he had been a
part
Of a time when the turmoil around us
Tugged violently at all of our
hearts.
I tried to offer some comfort,
But he gave me a half-hearted
grin.
He said, "No matter how hard I try,
I just can't seem to fit in."
He looked much older than his 50 years;
I thought back to a time
long ago,
When he was a handsome young soldier.
Oh God! What if we'd
only known.
If we had known of the outcome
Would things be different
today?
Would we have turned our backs on the world
Or still sent our
young men away?
The man said I shouldn't be worried,
And he hoped
that he wouldn't offend,
But if he had it to do all over,
He'd do it all
over again.
He'd be willing, again, to shoulder a gun
And put his
fears and his hurt aside.
After all, he was defending his country.
His
eyes glowed with the soldier's true pride.
The mental scars were more
painful
When the soldiers came home from the war.
Our country considered
them outcasts,
And cast them aside all the more.
It seems like it
was just yesterday
When I spoke with this man who'd been brave.
Now with
tears mixed with pride and yet sadness,
I kneel praying at my brother's
grave.
As a Military Service person, David was an Air Force Security Policeman, perhaps a strange role for a person of such a kind loving nature, which he had always expressed! To share David's loving, caring nature with his Vietnam Veterans, I will now quote from words he has written. David wrote, "from my Vietnam experience, I never expected to return home alive and emotionally never have."
Now, I shall speak to all you Vietnam Veterans who are still emotionally not home, what David desires and wishes for all of you! "NOW IS THE TIME TO COME HOME, YES, THIS VERY DAY, MINUTE AND SECOND!!!
On Saturday May 16, 1998, David James Hainsworth's Declaration OF Freedom reads: Valently I Elegantly Tried; Now Almighty Memory, "I HAVE COME HOME."
Here again another brother who was in harms way, but it was in a non combat area that having PTSD, that David died!
Submitted by his brother, Joe Hainsworth
"I am an Air Force Veteran of the Cuban Crisis era and did not have to go to Vietnam. Thank You for this opportunity to express inner fellings which grow more emotional as the years pass!!!"
Formerly A1C Joseph C. Hainsworth Jr.
1230 Gahan Drive
Florissant,
Missouri 63031-7806
Phone: 1-314-839-0332
Or Email: [email protected]
The war took him away from me before I could ever even know him. I was only six months old when he died. He was killed aboard the USS Forrestal on July 29, 1967. He was only 26 years old. I am now 32 years old and never a day goes by that I don't think of him and what it would have been like if I would have known him. He is my hero and always will be.
I love you DAD. If you were fortunate enough to know him, would you please let me know?
Willie Frye email: [email protected]
MY NAME IS CHRISTINA MALLOBOX. MY FATHER JESSE WAS KILLED WHEN I WAS A YEAR AND A HALF, SO NEEDLESS TO SAY AS SO MANY OTHER CHILDREN I NEVER KNEW MY FATHER. BUT NONE THE LESS I MISS HIM VERY MUCH.
I AM PROUD OF THE SACRIFICE MY FATHER MADE FOR HIS COUNTRY. AS MANY OTHERS LEFT BEHIND I HAVE AN EMPTY PART OF MY LIFE.
IF THERE IS ANYONE OUT THERE WHO KNEW MY FATHER I WOULD GREATLY APPRECIATE YOU CONTACTING ME. HE HAS FOUR GRANDCHILDREN THAT I KNOW HE WOULD BE SO PROUD OF. MY OLDEST SON IS NAMED AFTER MY FATHER AND THEIR BIRTHDATES ARE A DAY AWAY FROM THE OTHER.
MY E MAIL ADDRESS IS[email protected]
PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU KNEW MY FATHER.
Ed Wartsbaugh
U.S. Army
Vietnam Veteran
Died September,
1999
L to R: Ed Wartsbaugh, Travis Shattle, Ted McCormick, my wife Sue and "Jack",
another member, Erick Miller took the pic.
Ed passed away from cancer in Sept of this year, he leaves his wife Judy. They lived in Redington Shores, Fla. Ed had served with both the 1st Div and the 101st Abn.
He will be sadly missed by all that knew him.
Ed became real cynic about the war and life in general, and was an atheist, but towards the end of his life he made peace with the Lord and accepted him in his life.
Heres one for you Ed.
Max
Story about Ed...
Ed was the 'ole man" of our unit. We had just recieved a new Lt. who was untested and in our eyes way to aggressive. For example, we were supposed to be on recon around FSB Cannon looking for enemy infiltration when this guy saw in the elephant grass a bengal tiger, he opened up on full auto, "I always wanted to get a Tiger". I'm not kidding.
A couple of weeks later, the "Kid" was walking point and was KIA by a chicom. We were taking his body out when we again were engaged by well dug in NVA regulars, they had the high ground and we were in a reinforced recon element of 28 men. The new LT wanted to leave the body and charge their positions.
"This guy is nuts", Ed said, "He's gonna get people needlessly killed, anyone who wants to live follow me out". We all went with Ed, including the LT. After we got to the rear Ed was arrested for mutiny and sent to LBJ. The Lt was relieved of command. Later we were told Ed recieved 20 years in Leavenworth for this action.
I finally located Ed through the internet in 1990 when he told me that after returning to the states he was given an honorable discharge and they offered him disability for battle fatigue which he declined.
He learned the art of under water welding and went to work for the Saudis, during this job there was an accident and he got the bends. It was then he found out they didnt have any health insurance coverage and he was sent home and started living in the Tampa area which is where he was when I re-located him in 1990.
Ted
I never knew my father, but I always take pride in the fact,by hearing from those that knew him, that he was kind, caring, jovial human being. He was only 26 when he died. He left behind his wife, my mother, Bonnie, my sister Debra, my brother Ronald Jr., and my self Bridget.
All of us have surpassed his age that he was killed. May my father continue to help keep watch over us with his spirit.
Bridget
I helped load this A/C before it left on this mission. When I found out Tom had gone down that day, I cried like a baby. I didn't know him well, but we had some good times together. I remember giving him a wave as the taxied out that evening.
Let me tell you, one NEVER forgets all the bad and good things that happen in war. We just put them on the back burner for awhile.
Thanks guys you made one heck-of-a team. I'll always keep you alive in my memories.
Ronald C Buzbee
Sgt. USAF 9/69-10/70
408 MMS flareshop
Little bro, You are very much loved and will be forever missed. Betty Jo Smice, Ann Boutwell and James T McKenzie Jr., Lori Nickolson
31 years later your love and smile are still with us...thank you for all that you gave us dear Marlin, you are not forgotten.
I would Love to hear from anyone who knew him." My email address is [email protected]
Sherry Siegwalt Herrmann
Marlin L. Siegwalt
Captain, United States Air Force
KIA 30 October
1968
Marlin was killed while serving as a RAVEN FAC in Laos. He is remembered by his friends. Rest in Peace
Goodbye my Dearest and Best Friend. I will miss our long talks and your advice.
You will always be in my thoughts. I was so very blessed to have you as my Best Friend.
Liz Guercio
He was my friend.
Jerry Hobbs
Viet Nam Vet, 69-70
He went to school at Brooks Institute in Santa Barbara, where he earned his degree in cinematography. His graduation took place about a month before he died of cancer caused by the agent orange.
He died at home in Santa Barbara, January 27, 1996. He is listed in Who's Who in America for his outstanding accomplishments. He contributed so much to everyone who came near him. He gave without asking, he smiled freely, he really cared, and he turned opposition into opportunity. Within him was the energy of a saint, a man who knew God. He loved his friends, and he loved his family.
He was the All-American-Hero, 60's style, who transformed himself into a 90's man. He was truly the most incredible man I have ever met. He showed me what love means.
I want to pay tribute to all my dear brothers who gave their all for a country that didn't seem to care. All gave some in that hellish place, and served with pride. the big battle started when we returned home.
I will never forget the friendship, and special bond we had for one onother.
keep-on, keepin-on.
He came home a different person, and a year after he was home his best friend, childhood buddy, was killed in Da Nang on the airstrip trying to run for cover...What these boys went thru and what they saw over there can never ever be comprihended by us...
God Bless All of them, Living or Dead..
A poem dedicated to Edward
This is a story of my brother Eddie
a man that was willing, able and ready
to defend his country in Vietnam
and came home to a country unable to
calm
the truth of why they were there.....
Some say it was to free the
Vietnamese, but in all reality
who did we please?
Was it Big Government
trying to hold, onto the riches
of the unfortold--men of riches, men of
wealth,
men who couldn't fight because of health,
Or was it very very
political,
send our boys, so typical!!
Send the young men, what they
got?
Just starting out---not a lot,
that they could have accomplished so
young in their lives,
But look at us, we got husbands and wives....
They
will go there and they will fight,
some will come home, others may never see
the light...
of a new day dawning, their babies cry, their wives
fright...
So send them on to Vietnam, and let us sleep another
nite...
And, if they make it, if they come home,
don't worry abut them,
cuz some will roam, some
to the bars some to the ghetto, and who will
care....
we won't let'em, have a feeling of doing good,
we'll knock them
down, as we should....
Baby killers, they were called, and the whole
word
was intralled that someone from the U.S.A. could do
that to some
country so far away.....
Home they came trying to adjust
to a world that
only felt disgust,
for what they had believed in, what they had done,
it
mattered no more they were ONE...
All stick together all believe that what
they did
they did for humanity!
Gregory J. Van De Walle
Lance Corporal
United States Marine Corps
Vietnam Veteran
KIA 14 May 1967
This poem was found in his belongings sent back to his family (note: it is also on the plaque in the pictures of the memorial park below)
You sit at home and watch TV
And sip a glass of icy tea.
The news comes on and then you hear
The All-Star game is drawing near.
Then you see a far off land
Where men are dying in the sand.
Forget the guy across the sea
He�s far away and doesn�t concern me.
Do you realize what he�ll do?
Like giving up his life for you.
Yet he asks for nothing in return
So you can stay in school and learn.
The college crowd thinks he�s a fool
That�s what makes him hard and cruel.
Some will be heroes because they are brave
Others will earn an earthen grave.
You may spot him as he passes by
There is a sad, but proud look in his eyes.
He�s the World�s Best War Machine
He�s a United States Marine.
From the perspective of a 5 year old little sister, at 15 years older than me, that was a confusing time and only when I reached my mid-30�s did I finally break down and grieve over his loss. I know he loved and cherished me as he sent me cards and letters from overseas, and I vow to never let my memories fade. And to all who will listen, I will share my story with pain, pride, and gratitude for those 5 years he was present in my life.
I LOVE YOU, GREG!
The memorial below was posted by Greg's cousin, David Hooge on www.virtualwall.org
I can still see my cousin standing at the rear of the church in his Marine dress uniform after his return from his first tour in Vietnam several months earlier. He had been wounded and had spent time rehabilitating in a hospital in Hawaii. He volunteered to return to Vietnam for a second tour and was back home to visit family and friends. His second tour was cut short by enemy weapons and the government returned him in a body-bag.
I will never forget that warm May afternoon when my mother came into the garden where my dad and I were working to tell him that Gregory had died in action. I had never seen my parents cry until then, but my dad held my mom in his arms and they both wept. Many years have passed and I wanted to share my thoughts and feelings with whoever cares to read them. Gregory Vandewalle will always stand as a hero in my eyes. His presence here on this world was cut all too short by a senseless war, as were the lives of thousands of others. Their memories will always live on because we have chosen not to forget them.
I will not forget ...
David W. Hooge
San Antonio, Texas
[email protected]
Anyone who knew Tom and would like to share their stories can contact his family at [email protected] . We would love to hear them.
We will miss you and God Bless!
Your Family
Bill Federer passed away last week after a valiant fight against cancer. I knew Bill in Saigon from 1963 to 1965 when we were at the American Community High School together. He was my first boyfriend and we stayed in touch until 1971.
Bill in Saigon while still a senior in High School (1965)
Bill returned to Vietnam, but this time in the Army. He was eventually evacuated with hepatitis, and was never quite the same after.
But he loved Vietnam and the Vietnamese people. He had learned a lot of Vietnamese and some of his best friends were little Vietnamese children to whom he talked wherever he went.
Bill in Vietnam in the Army
Bill fought this cancer with all his might, and in the end lost the fight. But he was so full of hope and had so much faith in whatever was awaiting him.
I know he is in a good place now, and he is not suffering anymore.
We have lost a bright shining star. A man who was full of curiosity, and had such an adventurous and warm spirit. He was such a good man, and was loved dearly by many.He leaves behind 2 daughters, a son and a grandson of which he was so proud.He also leaves behind a girlfriend he was just about to marry�.
Your warm and loving spirit lives on in us Bill, and we who loved you will never forget. Thank you for the lessons you taught us on courage and faith.
I pray that when you see her it was almost 33 years after you.
May God have mercy on you both.
Love Your son
Lloyd H braye Jr. and my 5 sons
I would like to get in contact with his former teamatesfrom that div.; anyone who knew him well. I'd like tohear the stories and fotos; I have 2 old ones toexchange.
Every year, on his date of death in March, I try tohave a Mass said for his soul.
I miss him so much. He was a good and true friend.
please contact: Maureen Cawley Monteiro
Richard P. Korsak
U.S. Army
Vietnam Veteran
Died 17 November 2003
The last 8 years, I have walked the walked and talked the talk and made the journey through the Valley of Death with my husband, a death brought about by the ravages of Agent Orange, Lung cancer being the worst.
I have fought for his medical care through VA and been with Richard every step of the way. This year was the hardest, for we both knew the day to say good by "i will love you forever and a day" was fast approaching
Richard was a true Warrior and we did it his way, no hospice, no in home help, with only 2 pain pills a day at night, he wanted our last days, hours, minutes to not be clouded by narcotics. Richard lasted as long as he did for me, last Monday November 17, 2003 I told him it was not his time to worry about me.
Wednesday November 19, 2003, Richard was napping in his recliner I tried to wake him for his pills and I found my Warrior, My Lover, My Best friend, had made that final journey to that "I will love you forever and a day" place at the end of the trail.
Viet Nam has claimed another, Warrior....Dear God how I miss Richard. I know if I have half the courage he did, I will survive.
Thank you for having a web site for like you have, our Vets will never be forgotten.
With A Heavy Heart,
Leilani Korsak
Leilani Korsak
There were times when I wondered if he might take his own life but thank God his family meant so much to him that he never did. Immediately after he passed three people whose lives he saved since Vietnam contacted me to tell me their stories. He was a true hero in every sense of the word. I'm sure the angels in heaven are singing "Welcome Home" to their brother.
Until we meet again dear Husband.
Your wife,
Shirlean
In Loving Memory of Richard B. Rinehart, 101st Airborne Division,
Born May 17, 1948 in Natick, MA, Passed On February 15, 1971, in Quang Tri Province, South Vietnam
Some people think, incorrectly and insensitively, that a five year old is "too young" to understand death or be impacted by it. That is a ridiculous rationalization by adults who perhaps are having such a hard time dealing with their own grief and confusion that they simply don't have the energy to address a child's. That was my situation. I wasn't even allowed to go to the funeral. I felt shut out from the whole grieving process. I went off to kindergarten while my big brother was buried. I had so many unanswered questions. It was just never discussed; it was as if he'd never existed, like we just had to close the door and pretend nothing happened. I wasn't raised in a religious family, so there were no comforting reassurances that he was now an angel watching over me, just a cold empty feeling. I did, however, believe his spirit still existed (although where I got that concept of Heaven or afterlife I don't recall) but what troubled me was that I didn't know if he knew I still existed.
-It's only now that I see the true effect Rich's death, and the lack of support after it, had on me - the night terrors and fear of being alone at night as a kid, depression, anxiety attacks, unhealthy relationships that I'd cling so as not to feel that pain of loss yet again. It was like I'd been frozen in time at that tragic moment. Now, after all these years, I think I'm beginning to thaw out. I realize I'm not alone in this experience - that other young kids also lost big brothers or fathers, even though at the time it seemed like I was the only one in the world. I know now that, of course he knows I exist. We had a pure, deep love for one another and that love never dies. It is the one and only relationship in my life that I have perfect, untainted memories of.
Just prior to being drafted, he was both working and going to junior college and yet he always, always had time for me. Even after a long day he'd be up for a "wrestling" match, which of course he'd let me win, or for watching "Speed Racer" or "Dark Shadows". Even though our time together was short, I'm thankful for it. He made me feel safe, loved, protected, and special. I'm glad that, since he wouldn't live to have children of his own, at least he got to experience that through me. I'm glad I made him laugh and made the last five years of his life more joyful as he made the first five years of mine.
Marlin L. Siegwalt
Captain, United States Air Force
KIA 30 October 1968
It has been 35 years since you left us, but you live on in all of those that you touched with your smile, your warmth and your love.
March 30 1937-October 30 1968
Dad loved to fly and flew over 25 different aircraft in his 25 year Air Force career. He volunteered for Vietnam and served with the 366th TFW "Gunfighters" flying F-4D missions with the 390th TFW "Wild Boars" from June 1968 to June 1969. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for heroism in Laos assisting with the rescue of a downed fighter pilot, and one week later was awrded a second DFC for serial heroism with taking out hostile bunkers so ground troops could advance.
I lost my Dad to cancer last May and sat with him as he took his final breath...when he did, a large piece of my heart went with him.
You will always be my hero Dad...I love you and miss you each and every day.
Till we see each other again on the other side...
Much Love,
Your very proud Son...
Troy
Pat earned the Purple Heart,Combat Action Ribbon,Presidential Unit Citation with 3 bronze stars, Merritorious unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam ServiceM edal with silver and bronze star, Gallantry Cross color with palm. civil actions color, 1st class with palm. Republic of Vietnam campaign medal.
Pat survived Vietnam only to face a life of P.T.S.D. and finally he fought his last battle, 100% service connected, with COPD. He always had a sense of humor. Even during his last weeks, he could make you smile.
I hope he knows how proud i was of him. Now his mind and body are finally at peace. He is buried at Eagle Point National Cemetary, Oregon. Semper FidelisHe would speak so little of Vietnam.
if anyone has any info please contact me at [email protected]
I Love you, Your wife Lori.
During his service with the First Field Force Vietnam Artillery, 4th Battalion, 60th Artillery, he was awarded the Bronze Star with combat V and the Purple Heart.
He is survived by his brother Thomas O�Rourke.
Regards,
Tom O'Rourke
Millersville, MD
e-mail: [email protected]
I had lost contact with Larry and it was notuntil 1999, that we talked again. I tried unsuccessfully to talk him into a17th Artillery Reunion. Larry is survived by a sister, Pat Mammoser ofJoliet, IL. He became a Jehovah Witness late in life and left many friendsin Plano, TX, who will greatly miss Larry.
sent in by Jack Picciolo C Battery 2/17th FA 1965-66
I can not express enough gratitude for all veterans of all wars. When I was younger living at home I remember staying up late at night with my dad sleeping in his chair in the living room. I would be watching a war movie usually from the Vietnam War since my dad was a veteran him self. I would just stare at him with bewilderment as to why he would jurk and twitch so much when the shooting would start. I would always try to figure out as to why he would do that. Ever since then I have been curious about it, I never did say anything to my dad about it. Once and while my dad would talk about some of the things he seen over there, My heart would sink low in my chest and I wanted to cry from the sadness in his eyes. My dad was not the emotional type or show his feelings much, but I could see it in his eyes. Then I was too young to realize the true meaning of what he was telling me, but now that I'm older I realize what he meant.
I can only wonder what other kids went through when there parent was a veteran of the wars. I do not know how to express all of my feelings towards this, but just that it's there. I truly believe that people my age and younger and older, take for granted the rights they have. They need to realize all the dead and wounded could have been the dad, mom, brother ,sister, or grandparent. I truly get pissed off when somebody puts our veterans down for doing there job, they did not ask for the horror they seen and endured. I feel like reaching out and slapping the daylights out of them and asking them if they had any idea. Well I just wanted to let all veterans know that I'm grateful for what they have done for me, eve if it was before I was borne.
Again thank you for all that you have done and will do in the future!!!!!!!!
AN AMERICAN!
Uncle Milford returned from Vietnam shell-shocked and with jungle rot on both feet. He never married and settled in Las Vegas as a bartender. Uncle Milford died in late October of 1987 at the too-young age of 50. I helped my other uncle close up his apartment. I found the unopened Halloween card that I had sent him that year, it contained a picture of me and my husband on our wedding day. Uncle Milford had called me during our reception, apologizing again for not being able to make it but wanting to be sure I knew he was thinking of me. After his apartment was closed up, my mom flew down and she and my uncle drove Milford's ashes home.
Grandma and grandpa were alive when Milford died and it still hurts remembering how they cried. Grandma worried that he would not go to heaven because he did not attend mass regularly. Her priest assured her that "whatsoever you do to the least of my brother, that you do unto me" and by all accounts Uncle Milford went out of his way to help everyone. It brought her peace, she knew that she and grandpa had raised a good boy.
Uncle Milford did not talk about his service to our country other than to tell my grandparents that it was hell seeing your friends blown apart in front of you. When he visited my grandparents, they would sometimes awake to find him crouched down moving through the house, locked in a memory of the war.
I am so sorry for what Viet Nam cost each of our vets and their families. I think about and pray for all of you regularly.
God bless you,
J L Flynn
Illinois
My fatherhas given so much for his country like most veterans and then there weresome who gave all and now I feel like that is the category that he fallsinto. When my father left to go serve his country he left behind a newwife. The same wife who saw him end his life in front of her and now hashorrible images of husband who could not be heard last result. He tried tofit back in and tried to allow time to heal everything he had done and beenapart of but could not wash the blood from his hands. He suffered mentallyand physically.
Many years he dealt with the idea of suicide, agentorange, night sweats, violent sleep patterns, voices, the sight of vietcong, claustrophobia, shifty job patterns and finally cancer caused bychemicals he inhaled in the midst of battle. This did not stop with just himbecause my brother and I have had health problems which was tied to hisinvolvement in Vietnam. My dad wrote letters, went to doctors, got involvedwith various VVA organization with hope of finding help and for long awaitedproblems to be silenced and dealt with, but can you believe he never gotanswers just promises. We have spoke with several VVA offices and they allhave said he should have came here etc, he could have been receivingbenefits and counseling any help he would have needed we could have got itfor him.
I fail to believe this because of the trail of paper work andphone calls that remain without any assistance. I hurt daily for my fatherand the loss as well as my mother and brother and my 4 year old daughter whocan not understand where he went to so fast and how can she get to him. Doyou understand the pain of waking up everyday and trying to figure out whatis the nagging pain on your chest and then realizing it is a heart felt acheof the loss of a death that could have been avoided if someone would havejust listen? My father a good, good, good man a hero, a role model, ahusband, a grand-father, volunteer, a man who GAVE HIS ALL not just in namebut to anything he was a part of. He just could not shake what has beendeemed a "conflict" but I say by far a war. Conflicts are over after ashort period but war cont. to torment and rip away at root and this is whathas happen to every man and woman that has served. Sure he has medals andplaques and many pictures but what are these without him?
My father wasvery active in his local chapter of VVA and often had me to write poemsabout a war I did not fight only through his pain and suffering was I ableto pen the things that plagued these unsung heroes. I guess through him Iwas able to write so clearly and vividly that it made the nationalnewsletter back in the early 90's and that is a little to close to becomfortable.
I miss him , we all miss him REST IN PEACE, PAPA
from his daughter Tangi
My father died at the age of 29 supposedly from an accidental overdose of pain pills but i know he couldnt take it any more so it wasn't accidental. I am 30 years old now and he died on my 7th birthday 7/10/72. i know how hard it is for you and all the other children of vietnam veterans they were the lost soldiers who everyone forgets about but i will never forget my father ANTONIO A. HEREDIA SR., U.S. Army
Medal of heroism in 1969 antonio and his platoon were ambushed in the middle of the night by enemy forces and he was on watch . When they attacked there was no time to alert his brothers so he rushed to the m-60 and started to return fire. Subsequently he killed them all and was awarded a medal of heroism. You and all the other vietnam and all veterans are heroes, dad, and we are GREATFUL and soon we will all meet again.
I LOVE YOU POPS!!
Peace be with you
Antonio A. Heredia Jr.
Our Hero
Our love for you will never die,
We think of you and then we cry.
You served your country for 21 years,
Now you gone, you 'll have no more tears.
Your wife, our mom, Catherine, loved you the most,
This we know, so we will boost.
We promised you we would take care of mom,
The love you gave us made us strong.
You married mom with great controversy
We laid you to rest on your 45th wedding anniversary.
Joseph proudly served his country for 21 years. He was in Korea and Vietnam. We don't know much about his service days as we were very young and we weren't allowed to talk about it. After retiring from the U.S.A.F. he became a Deputy Sheriff for 23 years.
He was a great husband to Catherine. He had 6 children, adopted a granddaughter and raised his buddy, Josh. He had 12 grandchildren.
Joseph was a kind and caring person. We laid him to rest on April 16th, 2003, his 45th wedding anniversary. Joseph will be sadly missed by his wife, family and friends.
Tom Jr.
LTC Theofanous served 23 glorious years with the United States Army, beginning in Air Defense Arty and ending in Counterintelligence. He was awarded 17 medals, including the Bronze Star. He was presented the Gallantry Cross for Valor by South Vietnam President Thieu. He also worked directly with the directors of the DIA, CIA, FBI, and NSA.
Now that all the antiseptic information has been presented, I'd like to get to the heart of the matter.
My father held a lot of accomplishments over his lifetime. But the greatest was his influence over me. He showed me that he was not just a military man, but rather a compassionate and caring one as well. Every year - for over a decade - when the Moving Wall would visit us in Melbourne, Florida's annual Vietnam Veteran Reunion, sponsored by the Vietnam Veterans of Brevard, he and I would walk, may times - due to his failing health - arm in arm to visit panel 43E. Every year, he told me the same story; that of a young lieutenant under his command who was short, but insistent on leading a team on a very important mission. With great reluctance on my father's part, he gave in and approved the change in personnel. This team, originally slated to be led by my father, encountered intense enemy resistance and subsequently the lieutenant, who took my father's place, was killed by a mine.
Every year, the old wounds reopened and the guilt of his buddy's death returned to haunt him. Every year, I sat and cried with him and held him tightly and promised to honor the name on the wall who sacrificed his life that I may be here in freedom and love for a man whom I'd never met.
I cannot ever begin to express the amount of love my father and I had for each other. No man and son could ever be as close as we. On my father's deathbed, while he was desparately trying to breath, I again - if silently - promised him to continue paying homage in his name. This year, when the reunion again came around, I was uncertain whether I'd be able to go. I did as I'd promised. I returned to panel 43E and sat and thought my father and of this man whom I'd felt I'd known as a family member for many years and thanked him again. This time, I had no one to hold. I merely cried alone for the first time ever.
Thank you all for your sacrifices and may God grant you many years!
Gratiously,
George Theofanous
Very Proud Son of a Vietnam Vet
I don't know much about his tour in Nam. He was discharged in Nov 1968 andwe returned to his home town of Red Bank, NJ. I had also been in theservice as a medic and was stationed state side. We married in Clarksville,Tenn by the Justice of the Peace just prior to leaving the state. We had 5children when he died of a blood clot unexpectedly in Oct 1981, he wouldhave been 36 yrs old.
The children ranged in ages from 1-11yrs. Even though its been 20 yearssince his death, I can still see him in my minds eye, smiling, and I feel heguides me whenever Im in need. I would love to know more about his tour inNam, since I am on NJ State Council for VVA as VP. So many members inquirewhere he was in Nam, Im hoping someone out there will read this and getsback to me if they have any info or memories.
email to: [email protected]
He was a brave man who served his country without question. I only knewhim a little over two weeks when he was assigned to my platoon.However, I am sure we would have become very close friends had we moretime to serve together.
Please contact me through my private e-mail Bob Shearer
Thank you.
Bob Shearer,
Western NY.
Formerly SSG 4-6 Mike.
I would like to find someone, anyone, who knew him and was there. This has been a monkey on my back for many years, and I must know what happened. If not that, at least what he was like, whether he is remembered by his comrades in arms, and who he was at the end.
I was 7 when he died, and was alone at home with my Mom when the news came. I remember my mother bravely gathering the family from their jobs and school, the pastor, the neighbors, the grief. I am now 41 years old, and was his little brother. he sent me a hand grenade pin, and a sketch of a gung ho army Private walking into a punji pit, with his fist in the air. He inscribed the sketch, "This is how they want us to be!".
I have a dozen or so of his sketches and paintings from high school and the 1 year of college he attended before being drafted. There is a bag of medals that my older sister and brother keep. I have his Prom picture, his High School ID, and his 1st drivers permit. It expires in December of 1968, and for some reason that breaks my heart. He looks so young but I remember him as a grown man - he'll always be older, wiser, in my memory - but he was just a kid, a point I passed so very long ago.
I recently read letters from Viet Nam that he wrote, hidden by my Mom for years, in which he asked my parents to contact girls he'd cared about, asked about my sister and me, wanted to come home. I am hopeful that someone can help us know what happened to him or tell us something beyond "small arms fire".
Last year I had an opportunity to see the wall in D.C. I thought I was a fairly strong man, and that it would be just a tribute and a slightly difficult remembrance. It was devastating to see his name there in the black stone among the thousands of others, and I broke down. I remember that one of the veterans at the memorial asked me what Battalion, what company, what division, because he'd been there at the same time, and the name sounded familiar. I couldn't remember the Company, the Battalion - just 7th cavalry. The guy looked at me sadly, as though he had something to tell me but wanted to be sure. I have regretted not knowing the specifics of my brother on that day, and I feel I missed something important. I just didn't grasp the significance - I was on a business trip and it was a sidebar to even be there...now I know that the Wall was the reason I was in D.C., the job was just the vehicle that brought me there.
I dream of him, I remember him. I can even hear his voice across 34 years, although he was then what I think of as a child now. I feel he is with me, and I must know what happened to my brother Mike.
Here is his information from the wall:
--- General / Personal --- Last name: WELCHFirst name: MICHAEL ALLENHome of Record (official): CROCKETTState (official): CADate of Birth: Friday, December 14, 1945Sex: MaleRace: CaucasianMarital Status: Single--- Military --- Branch: ArmyRank: CPLSerial Number: 56426263Component: Selective ServicePosthumous promotion as indicatedPay grade: E3MOS (Military Occupational Specialty code): 11B10Major Organization: 1st Cavalry Div --- Action --- Start of Tour: Wednesday, December 7, 1966Date of Casualty: Saturday, April 8, 1967Age at time of loss: 21Casualty type: (A1) Hostile, diedReason: Gun, small arms fire (Ground casualty)Country: South VietnamProvince: Binh DinhThe Wall: Panel 18E - Row 001-------------------------------------Thank you for your kind assistance, please feel free to contact me at Paul Allee or this alternate email address
Warmest Regards,
Paul Allee
(Our last names are different because we had different fathers. His maternal father left long before I was born, and my blood father raised Mike and my other older brother from that same marriage, Steve. Edward Allee - our Dad - still grieves and wonders what became of his oldest son.)
I would like to add my husband to your taps list. He died with Agent Orange related cancer on Dec. 1, 1997.
My husband, Ronald D. (Snotty) Snodgrass was stationed in Nah Be and Bien Thuy from April 1970 - April 1971. He was an E/5 in the Navy and served as an advisor to the Vietnamese Navy. I have also added a poem I wrote in his honor.
Thank you,
Joyce Snodgrass
There is no place upon the wall
For one who gave his life for all.
Agent Orange in far away lands
Put a Sailor in the Good Lord's hands.
Many years he screamed within
Not knowing that his life must end.
He was called and served his country well,
Experiences....he would never tell.
Ten, Twenty, Thirty years
A silent killer brought us tears.
Even on the eve of death
Regret was never on his breath.
He gave his life for one and all,
But there is no room upon the wall.
Joyce LaVerne Snodgrass
Benita, Todd, Tara, Tracy and Tim.
"Semper Fi" OOH-RAH!!!!!!!!!!!!
semper fi from former marine r.t. wright
my e mail is [email protected]
Sometimes we would go across the street to Aunt Gert's house and sit on her front porch gliders instead and play silly games like Truth or Dare or tell "secrets".
Terry and Lynda had graduated from high school. I was not quite ten that summer.
Terry had red hair and he laughed a lot. He really seemed to like us bratty kids and never appeared to mind that we hung around so much. He even laughed the night I whispered in his ear during a round of secrets that Elsie, Lynda's mother, didn't like red hair. I have no idea to this day whether that was true or not. I do remember that my mother punished me for saying it.
In December 1968, Terry was sent off to Vietnam. In early February 1969, ten short weeks later, Terry was killed. I lay awake for hours the night my mother told me he had died and for many nights after, my ten year old mind trying to imagine what had happened to him in that far away jungle. I never heard Lynda play the guitar again. We never sang another song together.
I don't recall when Terry slipped off the radar of my nighttime musings. I was probably in eighth or ninth grade. Lynda married someone else about that time. Just before she got married, she took me to the house she would be living in for dinner one night. While I helped her polish a brass headboard I remember asking her how she could love someone else and if it meant that she didn't love Terry anymore. I am dismayed to realize now that I don't remember what she said to me, but I was satisfied with her answer at the time.
During my senior year of high school, I developed an interest in photography. I started scouring cemeteries, taking hundreds of black and white pictures of headstones that caught my eye for whatever reason. One sunny, warm afternoon I glanced to my right while walking between a row of headstones and saw Terry's name. My parents did not attend his funeral. Until that moment, I had no idea where he had been buried. I had never thought about his funeral, just about the moment he had been killed, frozen in time.
At odd moments over the 27 years since that day, Terry has flitted around the edges of my consciousness. Whenever I hear one of the songs we used to sing together; every time a song about the war is played on the radio; when I see someone who has the same red hair.
Several years ago I took my son to Washington, DC for a day. It was the first time I had ever been to the Vietnam Memorial Wall. As I gazed upon the long gray surfaces, etched with the names of the 58,229 young men and women who were sacrificed, I was shaken by realization that Terry was the only person I knew who went to Vietnam, living or dead. My entire experience of the most turbulent era of the 20th century, the era of my childhood, had been shaped by one person; a person about whom I know very little.
I have searched numerous sites like this one and have not been able to find any memorial to Terry. He was an only child and his parents were devastated. I do not know if they are still living at this time. So I am making it a mission of my own to make sure he is not forgotten.
If anyone remembers Terry, I would love to hear from you. You can reach me at [email protected] .
God Bless
" I LOVE YOU MORE"
YOUR SISTER,
LUCY
PLEASE, ANYONE WHO MIGHT HAVE KNOWN MY BROTHER BRIAN IN VIETNAM PLEASE CONTACT ME @ [email protected]
BRIAN SERVED IN VIETNAM AS LEADER OF HIS PLATOON, FROM JAN. 25 '69 TO MARCH 18' '70
DIED ON OCTOBER 15, 1969KILLED BY MORTAR ATTACK
Born in Ridgeway, Henry County, Virginia July 2, 1948. Buried at Mountain View Cemetery in Ridgeway.
Please help me if you can, locate anyone who may have served with him.
Thank you for any assistance that you can provide me.
His loving sister always,
Donna Seay-Cottrell
HE WAS THE NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICER FOR THE DISABLED VETERANS OF VERMONT FOR 12 YEARS.HE WAS THE ONE WHO STARTED THE PROJECT FOR THE VIETNAM VETERANS HIGHWAY IN VERMONT, THE HANDICAP PLATES FOR VETERANS, THE VITENAM MEMORIAL IN SHARON VERMONT, AND THE FIRST EVER HOMECOMING FOR VIETNAM VETERANS IN NORWICH VERMONT.
HE WAS WITH THE 101ST AIRBORNE DIVISION AND SERVED TWO TERMS IN VIETNAM 1966-1969,
THANK YOU
FRANCES M, CORCORAN
[email protected]
Franieo
Last Saturday, he died from the effects of that war. He suffered frompulmonary fibrosis and diabetes. Both related to agent orange. He diedlike a true soldier that he was. He will be greatly missed by his familyand friends.
I wrote this poem for my father and all Vietnam Vets who are still sufferingfrom that time. I hope that you will share it. I thank all for what theydid. I am sorry what has not happened for them.
Another soldier is wounded today
Not by a bullet tearing his flesh
Nor by a mortar exploding nearby
But by a chemical of a warfare gone by
In a war, that was not a war
In a war where there was never a hero's welcome
Only a growing tolerance from a nation
for those who unquestionly served their country
What of this soldier?
He served as a Green Beret with honor and dignity
He survived...unlike so many others
He continued to support a nation who did not support him
when he needed it the most
He continued to salut a flag that draped more than 58,000 bodies
whose names are on a black wall...men and women
who are still waiting to be called heroes
He never complained or expressed the disappointment
for a country he loved so well
But as he laid dying from his wounds of this long ago war,
He ould only look back on a life and know he was never a hero to this
nation, but like a good solider he did his duty and did it well
So forgotten, this wounded man is no more
Another solider, not A Hero, died today.
Best regards,
Robin Sing
I consider him my guardian angel while I serve in the U.S. Army and more so when I go overseas.
His niece,
Andrea M. Neutzling
PV2 U.S. Army
[email protected]
He was a changed man after coming home according to most people that knew him before leaving for Vietnam. He was awarded many medals and decorations including the Air Medal, RVN Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Vietnam Service Medal with at least 4 battle stars. Both him and neighbor (a Korean and Vietnam Vet) would swap stories about things that happened while "in country" which my brother and I listened to but not understanding. My brother and I would understand years later having both served in the U.S. Army during the Persian Gulf War.
He would rarely if ever talk to us about what happened, he was very withdrawn. He is finally at rest with his demons from the war. Though he died alone, I know that he is with his buddies that he could never forget though their names sometime escaped him. He is missed by his children. He is interred at the National Military Cemetery in Florida.
Love, your oldest son-David
If you knew or served with James Operacz, please contact David Operacz
We played cards, duck hunted, XC ski and just enjoyed each others company. He is missed by many and I thank you for posting this. Steve has been gone now for eight or so years.I am proud to have been his friend
Irwin Shattuck
USN 71-75
USS Bradley DE 1041
He is greatly missed.Dad is buried in the Florida National Cemetary.
His Daughter,
Diane
" I LOVE YOU MORE"
YOUR SISTER,
LUCY
PLEASE, ANYONE WHO MIGHT HAVE KNOWN MY BROTHER BRIAN IN VIETNAM PLEASE CONTACT ME @ [email protected]
BRIAN SERVED IN VIETNAM AS LEADER OF HIS PLATOON, FROM JAN. 25 '69 TO MARCH 18' '70
Goodbye dearJigs....
�Jigs� (Doc Weldon) passed away on November 22, 2002 after a long illness inChieng Rai, Thailand.
Dr. Charles Weldon worked with the Hmong refugees in Laosfrom 1963 to 1974 and �was in charge of the remote, primitive, bamboo andthatch hospitals, and the clandestine schools with bootleg teachers thatprovided the only moral and physical support to these people in their struggleagainst overwhelming odds�.
Tragedy in Paradise: A countrydoctor at war in Laos.
It seemed as if we have been having nothing but lousy weatherhere in Northern Virginia recently. On only two occasions within the pasttwo weeks have we experienced the sun. On both of those occasions, Ihave put on my old navy blues to attend the funeral services for fellowVietnam Vets.
When I decided to go to the services today, I felt a bit strangebecause I didn't believe that I had known Lynda very well. I was wrong!I had talked to her over the phone a couple of times a few years agoabout some info on the VVHP Bookshelf on her books. I was also aware ofher outstanding work in the VVA and the she had helped many of the Namnurses and other veterans find their way into recovery programs.However, I believed that my trip today was more to honor a fellow Vietnamveteran than say good bye to a friend.
Prior to the services, I had wondered a bit about why Lynda wasnot being laid to rest at Arlington Cemetery. My answer came during theservice with the ministers first words. When Lynda mustered out of themilitary after her tour in Nam, she was told that as a combat nurse, shewould be eligible for a full military burial service at ArlingtonCemetery with flag, military honor guard and 21 gun salute. Her responsewas that they could give her the flag to put on her coffin, she earnedthat. However, she had seen enough damage caused by guns in her life andwanted doves instead of guns at her funeral. She had in fact, plannedher own service at that moment, those long years ago.
- The funeral started outside the Church with the release of 21white doves that promptly circled over the church 2 or 3 times as ifsaying good-bye and then flew off into a beautiful sunlight sky.
While no funeral service is ever a happy occasion, this one came asclose as I've ever seen in my life. This was not the typical somberveterans service. In truth, it was magnificent. It was full of laughterat Lynda's antics over the years, of wonderful memories of some thepeople she had helped in her life, of children singing and a finalbeautiful rendition of "Amazing Grace" sung by her lovely teenagedaughter (and what a voice that kid has). It was truly a celebration ofher life, which was much much more than I had ever known or expected.
When visiting the casket in the Funeral Home prior to the service, Ihad not recognized Lynda. It was only when I entered the church and washanded the program that my heart skipped a beat. There on the cover ofthe program was a photograph of the same smiling lady that I had spent somany hours working with on AA service programs years ago. The samedetermined lady that I had lost many arguments with, or moreappropriately, the same lady who had always brought me around to her wayof thinking about what was right with respect to helping other people. Ihad indeed come to say good bye to a friend, and a friend that I hadlearned much from.
I hope that as a soldier, Lynda would not mind that I offer the oldnavy send off. Lynda, may you always find fair winds and followingseas........
Steve Robbins, RMC(AC), USNR, Ret.
Project Jenny / Airborne Radio & TV Broadcast
Blue Eagle III (131641) / Saigon 66 / AFVN-THVN TV
Blue Eagle I (131627) / DaNang 67-69 / SOG PSYOPS Radio
http://www.afvn.tv/ProjectJenny/index.html
From a press release by the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA)
Subject: AMERICA MOURNS THE LOSS OF Lynda VAN DEVANTER
IMMEDIATE RELEASE Press Release November 15, 2002 No. 02-27
(301) 585-4000 Contact: Mokie Porter
VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA MOURNS THE LOSS OF LYNDA VAN DEVANTER
-------------------------------------------------
(Washington, D.C) - Lynda Van Devanter, one of the nation's foremost women's veterans advocates, died November 15, at her home in Herndon, Virginia, after a long illness. "This is an extremely sad occasion," said Thomas H. Corey, national president of Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA). "Lynda was a giant in the field of veterans affairs. She was a forceful and effective advocate for all veterans. She was a valued friend, a devoted colleague, an accomplished nurse, and a loving mother and wife. She will be missed terribly."
Lynda Van Devanter, who was born in 1947, served as a U.S. Army nurse at the 71st Evacuation Hospital in Pleiku from 1969-70. In 1979, a year after the founding of Vietnam Veterans of America, she helped launch and became the head of VVA's Women's Project. She also began counseling other Vietnam veterans and conducting seminars around the country.
In 1983, she wrote a highly acclaimed memoir, Home Before Morning, which was reissued in 2002. "Lynda's book stands as one of the most powerful, evocative, and influential Vietnam War memoirs," said Marc Leepson, the arts editor of VVA's national newspaper, The VVA Veteran. "Home Before Morning" changed people's attitudes about the women who served in the Vietnam War, especially the nurses who faced the brutality of the war every day and whose service was all but ignored during the war and in the years immediately after."
Vietnam Veterans of America honored Lynda Van Devanter with its Excellence in the Arts Award in 1987 and with the VVA Commendation Medal in March of 2002. "It was the least we could do to recognize what Lynda has done for America's veterans. She truly exemplified our motto, 'In Service to America.' Her loss is a tragedy for her family and for all Americans who care about veterans,"said Corey. ### Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) is the nation's only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated to the needs of Vietnam-era veterans and their families. VVA's founding principle is "Never again will one generation of veterans abandon another."
Vietnam Veterans of America �
8605 Cameron Street, Suite 400 Silver Spring, Maryland 20910-3710
301-585-4000, Fax 301-585-0519, 1-800-VVA-1316
Copyright � 2002 by the Vietnam Veterans of America. All rights reserved.
Lynda Wrote This for the NamNews in 1987
He wrote me a poem in 67 i was only 10. he wrote it 3 mo. before he died .
I WAS ONLY EIGHTYEARS OLD WHEN MY BROTHER WAS KILLED IN NAM.HIS NAMEIS LONNIE THOMAS PARKER.I CAN REMEMBER HIM EVEN THOUGHI WAS YOUNG AND I WILL NEVER FORGET THE DAY THEY CAMETO TELL US HE HAD BEEN KILLED ITS LIKE IT WAS JUSTYESTERDAY.THERE WAS SO MANY LIFES TAKEN AT THAT TIME.
MY BROTHER WENT INTO THE ARMY ON HIS OWN, I CANREMEMBER HIM SAYING THAT HE WANTED TO HELP SAVE HISCOUNTRY AND WHICH HE TRIED TO DO.HE WAS THE OLDEST OUTOF SIX CHILDREN,HE WAS ALSO ENGAGED AND HAD PLANNED ONGETTING MARRIED ON HIS NEXT TRIP HOME WHICH WOULD HAVEBEEN TWO WEEKS FROM THE DAY HE WAS KILLED.I AM PROUDTO SAY THAT VETERNS DAY MEANS ALOT TO ME AS IT SHOULDTO OTHERS,BUT FOR SOME ITS JUST ANOTHER DAY.
FOR THE PAST SIX YEARS I HAVE HAD A VETERNS DAYPROGRAM THRU MY JOB IN THE COMMUNITY,I AM PROUD TO SAYTHAT I ALWAYS HAD ATTENDANCE OF OVER FIVE HUNDREDPEOPLE,VETS,AND NON VETS AND FAMILES TO ATTEND.AGAIN I AM PROUD TO KNOW THERE IS A SITE TO GO TO NOWTO SEE THE WALL WILL BE SURE TO PASS THE SITE ALONG TOOTHERS.THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FROM THE BOTTOM OF MYHEART.I HOPE TO GO BACK TO THE WALL ONE DAY SOON,BUTIF I DONT MAKE IT I KNOW I CAN SEE IT HERE NOW
THANK YOU VERY MUCH
A SISTER TO LONNIE THOMAS PARKER
He was raised by an aunt who is now deceased. As far as I am aware there is no one to remember him. He lived just down the road from me. He and I started school together in the 1st grade and graduated together. From what I can gather, his aunt was not very kind to him.
When he was a very small child, he was attacked by a wild boar hog( the kind with long tushes, teeth if you're not a country boy) and was cut terribly, barely surviving. To say the least, he lived a hard life and I cannot bear the thought of no one to remember him. So, if at all possible, can you include this remembrance of my classmate and friend, Edward Coe Beckwith.
Your friend, Mary Ruth
God only knows how he is missed by all of us each and everyday. You can view his memorial site at this link.
I am a friend of Richard Rohde, former Marine, mid-1970s, and am trying to reach some of his Vietnam Vet friends and colleagues. Richard and I worked closely together while he was doing his doctoral dissertation on PTSD among vets, and he helped me on a paper concerning memorializing battle sites, etc. We remained close.
I am very sad to report that Richard passed away in his sleep the morning of Sept 5, 2002. He was born Feb 28, 1955. I am sorry, I do not yet know his Marine unit. Richard had a rather rough patch of it for a while before his death. His cremated remains were placed, with Marine honors, at the National Memorial Cemetary of the Pacific at Punchbowl on September 12th, Wall 5, bank B. He is survived by his wife, Beverlyn and daughters Elaine and Layla.
I believe he would want his many vet friends to be informed. If anyone needs further communication, I will be happy to help as best I can. Thank you.
With Aloha,
Bion Griffin
Associate Dean
College of Social Sciences
University of Hawai'i at Manoa
HE WAS MY BROTHER-IN-LAW-----UNDER WEST VA I DID NOT SEE HIS NAME----THANKS FOR THESE PAGES OF REMEMBRANCE----THE TRAVELING WALL WAS IN LOGAN WEST VA LAST WEEK-END AND I GOT THE CHANCE TO PAY RESPECT TOO OUR FALLEN HEROS-----
LETHA BUTCHER----BEST WISHES AND PRAYERS
23 YEARS YOUNG, WE WERE CLASSMATES IN GREENSBORO, GEORGIA. HE WAS A WONDERFUL, GOOD PERSON, ALWAYS SMILING, HAPPY, HAD A KIND WORD FOR EVERYONE. I KNOW HE WAS A CHRISTIAN PERSON. ALL HIS FAMILY HAS PASSED AWAY EXCEPT FOR ONE BROTHER UNLESS HE MAY HAVE AUNTS OR UNCLES I DON'T KNOW ABOUT.
HE MAY NEVER GET ANOTHER TRIBUTE ON THIS EARTH OR ON THIS WEBSITE BUT HE WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED FOR THE PRICE HE PAID IN HIS SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY HE LOVED SO MUCH.
UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN, MY FRIEND, I WILL NOT FORGET YOU EVER.
YOUR FRIEND PATRICIA GILLESPIE
YOU ARE MISSED MY FRIEND AND SOMEDAY WE WILL MEET AGAIN. YOU ARE IN A BETTER PLACE WITHOUT PAIN
YOUR FRIEND CLIFF. ( SPOONER)
Ben passed away on 1 September after a battle with lung cancer. The lungcancer had spread to his brain, bones, pancreas, liver, and the inside ofhis body wall.
He never spoke of his years of service to his children. They never knewthe hell he went through in defense of his country and their freedom untilhis funeral service.
I will miss him as my older brother, my tormentor, my confidant, myco-conspirator.
Ben, may you finally rest in peace.
Semper Fi!
Your Sister,
Maggie
If anyone served with him please contact me at [email protected]
submitted by his brother Ray Coveny
I don't know if Larry ever knew how proud of him I was when he enlistedin the Navy. Both of our parents served in the Navy during World WarII; part of Dad's enlistment was served in the Pacific as a gunner in abomber squadron. I was in junior high school at the timeof hisenlistment, and I remember several of my girlfriends had crushes on him-- we looked nothing alike, he and I: He was tall with sandy brown hairback then, I was short with dark brown hair.
I remember one time in particular when he came home on leave in 1967,between Vietnam tours, and we went to a football home game at RedfordHigh School in Detroit, Michigan. He was very tan at the time fromworking outdoors, his hair bleached very blond from the sun, and wasdressed in his "greens". The Huskies won (of course!), going on tobecome West side champs that year. I sure was popular the next few daysat school, everyone wondering who the "cute guy" was!
I didn't know until years later that he'd had a chance meeting "InCountry" in April that year (right around my birthday) with a highschool friend of his, Gary Scovill, who was in the Marines. Gary waskilled about a week after their meeting.
That high school football game we attended together in 1967 has come totake on new meaning for me since then, as if that by going, Larry'spresence there was meant for Gary's benefit, too. By coincidence orfate, in my high school yearbook for the Redford Class of 1968, there isa cropped photo of the crowd taken at that game, and Larry (in hisgreens) is clearly visible in it, along with Elaine, my best friend atthe time, and me.
We were one of the fortunate families waiting at home, because Larrycame back to us again, but between he and I, four of our friends didn'tcome home: Robert Allen Strange and Gary Alan Scovill, both in 1967,and Donald Gary Kuzilla and William Bert Cleverley, both in 1970.
Larry married the former Carolyn Smith and together have three wonderfulchildren: Matt, Heather and Michael. I love them dearly. We had afamily reunion, of sorts, in January 2000 to celebrate Heather'smarriage, and we'd planned another for the end of May that year tocelebrate Matt's marriage as well.
Larry was diagnosed with lung and brain cancer in mid March 2000, but itspread too rapidly...he lost his battle just twelve days before Matt andMaricela's wedding.
He is sorely missed by his extended family, but we are grateful to havehad him with us for as long as we did. One day we'll all be togetheragain.
He was a Vietnam Vet who proudly served his country. The flag was given to his son just before the 21-gun salute of which I hold dear to me a shell casing. Then the woeful sound of that lonely trumpet playing "TAPS" filled the air on that beautiful yet sad day.
We all know that he is up above watching over us and patiently waiting for us to one day join him in eternal bliss.
Sincerely,
Angela M. Strickland
There is a very nice tribute to Kenneth Posted Here . Please visit this memorial and then come back to the Taps Gallery
His name: HERBERT TEAGUE,date of birth 6/23/47. He was a good soldier & a wonderful son brother & father..we will miss him..
if anyone has Army stories about him..PLEASE email me at:[email protected]
Ruby
In Memory of
Lonny R. Richie
Marine Corps MOS: 2142
Vietnam Veteran
April 13, 1948 - April 19, 1995
My Father In Law and Friend. Lonny was a loving father and grandfather. Always the life of the party. Anyone who knew him was the better for it. He lived with the terrible memories of the war for many years. PTSD haunted him until the end. We all miss him very much, but realize he is finally in peace. He never told me much about his tour in Nam and I didn't ask too many questions because of the anguish it would bring him. I grew to Love him dearly in the years we had. I will miss you my friend. God Bless Us All.
Sincerely,
Joe Barth
His name and rank is 1st Lt. Jacob L Kinser. March 25 of that year was my 7th birthday.
You see my parents divorced before my father joined the army and my mother has never wanted to talk about it. My father was one of twelve children, however, my aunts and uncles all tell me to let it go. I guess what I am wasting your time in asking is� is there some way to find out who he was close to over there, and could anyone tell me about him and what he was really like? I have a half brother who is now 32 yrs. Old and I have seen him once, (when I was 16) . Jacob Jr. who never met our father.
I suppose if I were able to find out about our father, I would be able to say goodbye, which is what really has tormented me for 32 years, never having been able to say goodbye! I of course have moved on and am the mother of 5 children � a 20 yr old girl, who is in the army reserves, she is an M.P. just like her grandfather, twin 18 year old boys, the oldest of these his namesake, also in the reserves, the other will be going into the Navy July 3 of this year, also two other girls one 14 and one 10.
So, you see I have moved on, as I know my father, my hero would have wanted; but I never got the chance to say goodbye.
Thank you again for taking the time to read my ramblings, and God Bless you and the rest of our Hero�s who fought the fight!
Sincerely;
Kimberly Lynn Kinser- Simpson
Looking for any one who has knowledge of Ed during his time in Vietnam. According to what I've read, he was killed by multiple frag wounds due to hostile ground fire on 6/10/68, in or around Bien Hoa. He was promoted to E/5 after his death.
He was my childhood friend. His mother would still like to know all that she could while he was in country. She desires to know all the facts concerning his death. She is a survivor too. If there is anyone out there who can help us, please do?
I was there in 69.
E.R. Cunniff
E.R. Cunniff
Thank you,
Don Lopez
Sonoma State University
He served 2 possibly 3 tours in Viet Nam with US Army. He was being treated for Post Tramatic Disorder but died from lung cancer that metasizied to his bones & liver( Agent Orange related). He had also been diagnosed with a brain aneyrsm.
Bud loved his country & served it well. Bud was the oldest boy in his family, second oldest child of eight. He & I had 8 years of marriage, 9 years together. I would not have passed that time up with him for anything. He was a pleasure to be with, we had great fun together & a great love & admiration for each other. I did not know what all he went through in Viet Nam, he did not talk about it, & I did not ask, I figured if he wanted to tell me he would. I knew it had been a rough time. Since he has passed away, I have read his medical & personnel file, it is not pretty what these guys had to go through. I love & respect him more for what he endured for our country & us
Bud, I hope you are at peace now & having the best time hunting & fishing, catching those "Angel Fish" as Laura says.
Bud, you are greatly missed by all of us who knew & loved you.
We Love You
Gail, Dustin, Joseph, Laura, Pam, Wanda, Karen, Larry, Bobby, Pat, Shawn, Mom & Dad Hinton, Cheryl, Dan, Cyndi, Bruce, Chris, Uncle Richard, Cousin Dan
Written by his sister, Mary
I wrote the following in April, 1999. It was printed in The Oregonian in July 1999.
It's amazing how quickly 31 years can be erased. I hang up the phone and close my eyes. The memories come flooding back. Suddenly I'm 15 again, in Wisconsin. It's February 27, 1968.
Mom and I are in the kitchen washing supper dishes, laughing and talking, Dad and my little brother are in the living room watching TV. There's a knock at the back door and at first we don't hear it because the TV is on loud. I dry my hands and head for the door as they knock again.
It's not the blast of cold air that makes me freeze when I open the door. I see Navy uniforms and a Navy car. Official. Two men are standing there. They don't smile. One has a paper in his hands and he looks at it and back at me and back at the paper. He asks if my mother or father are home. He needs to speak to them. I can hardly breathe. I look at both of them but neither quite looks me in the eye. I say "Yes, just a minute." As I walk back to the kitchen something in me knows things will never be right again.
"Mom, the Navy is here." She stops smiling. Wiping her hands, she heads to the back door. My dad didn't hear me so I go and shut off the TV and stand in front of it. "The Navy is here." Dad and Tom head for the door and I go back to the kitchen. Maybe if I finish the dishes, if I don't go back there, this won't be happening. If I wash this one plate, they'll come back saying it was all a mistake. Wrong address, wrong name. If I wait one more minute... But I still hear voices. I put the towel down and walk back to the door. The Navy officers have taken their hats off. I think, that was nice of them. The one with the paper is holding it out a little and his hands are shaking. I think, he doesn't want to be here, we don't want him to be here, why don't they just go away and we can pretend they never were here. Why can't they just go away. Then I hear him. "...his plane was shot down. They don't think he was able to get out because of his wounds." Between the sound of my heart beating and the sound of my breathing I hear other things. "...enemy fire...took a direct hit...severely wounded...missing...very sorry...when we hear anything else...".
In a few minutes I watch them leave. I watch them get in their car. I watch them drive away. In the kitchen Mom sits at the table not looking at anything, the towel still in her hands. Dad and Tom sort of stand there, unsure of what to do now. At the sink I concentrate on finishing the dishes. And in the heavy silence I think, John, you have to come home, you promised me. John, you promised me.
In a few days the telegrams start coming. "We regret to inform you...missing, presumed dead...body not recovered..."
I open my eyes and I'm back in Portland. But once again I feel the hurt as if it were yesterday, again I feel so lonely and alone.In January 1999 the Navy informed my family that John's remains have been found and positively identified.
There will be a military funeral for him in July in Wisconsin. His ashes will be buried at my mother's grave.
Finally, my brother will be home, as he promised.
My uncle John was a career soldier......Army all the way. He is the reason I joined the US Army back in 1977. He served in Korea and served two tours in Vietnam. He turned down a promotion to SGM because he would have had to take a desk job, which he didn't want. He died of cancer, which was related to exposure to agent orange. He died on Feb. 2 just a couple of days before his first disability check came through.
If anyone knew my uncle John and can tell me about him when he was in the Army, please contact me at [email protected]
. Thank you for this page, so we can finally make a memorial to him.
You are at peace with family, friends, buddiesfrom the war, and I know that you are still watching over those of us thatyou left behind. I salute you with a final "SEMPER FI".
(My dad took his own life on January 31st 1995. I was only a junior inhigh school and had no idea what my father had been trying to put out of hismind for so many years. God Bless all the Vietnam Veterans!)
Love Always,
Your Daughter,
After graduating from Sexton High School in 1962, Pat worked atOldsmobile before and after his military service for 15 years. Heenlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and valiantly served his country withtwo tours in Vietnam (1963-1965) as a Sergeant E5 in the U.S. Marine 3rdRecon, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Division FMF.
A staunch democrat, he served his community as Ingham CountyCommissioner from 1973-1979. Pat was instrumental in the building anddevelopment of the Ingham County Medical Care Facility. A tirelessdefender of the underprivileged, Pat worked with Caesar Chavez toorganize the grape boycott in Michigan.
A U.S. Postal employee and antagonist, he would refer to himself as aPirate. Pat was known by his family and friends as the King of Ireland;Cowboy; Racer and Collector of Motorcycles; Lover of Triumphs; TheMaster of Wretched Excess; Delightful Storyteller and Farmer. He had awonderful sense of humor and consistently encouraged adventurousbehavior, creative solutions and boisterous laughter from those heloved. An unparalleled friend, Pat is a legend in the hearts of thosewho loved him.
The family requests that friends share photographs and record favoritestories and memories of Pat for his children's remembrance.
Charitable contributions may be made in Pat's name to the GreaterLansing Food Bank, P.O. Box 16224, Lansing, Michigan 48901.
Thank you for remembering Gary.
Sincerely,
JoyFarley
He comitted suicide last month and I believe in the way that he did it he truly never left Vietnam. My father did not have a high tolerance for pain and so I think that his guilt hurt him so deep inside because he loved his baby girl with every ounce of his being, but he couldn't tolerate the pain anymore. The only hell story I ever heard was when they went down to pick up people and everyone was shot and he had to fly the helicopter out himself. But he left behind his heart along with many wounded.
The only thing anyone ever got from Vietnam was pain and sorrow. Vietnam took my dad. His Grandchildren are beautiful gifts he will never treasure.
And I hope to see him someday to smell his Old Spice aftershave and tell him that I love him.
His Baby Girl
Erin
If anyone knew Pat, or knowsanything about these missions, please contact his family at[email protected]
Edward was a quiet person, reserved and to himself. He was not an emotional man, but he had a way of letting you know he cared. I knew when he called me "Little Girl". Something he said to me a few days before he died. Meant more to me than ANYTHING anyone could say. I tell you this, remembering a trip the family took to see the moving wall. What I saw there was unexpected to say the least. Edward knelt before a name on the wall and began to cry. This coming from a man that DID NOT under any circumstance show emotions, made tears come to my eyes. From that day forward, I looked at him in a different light.
To Edward,
No one can ever take YOUR place in OUR hearts. We didnt express our feelings to you often but in my heart, I know you knew we loved you. You were the foundation of our family and the PAW PAW ever child wishes for. Save a place for us. We will see you soon.
Eleece Brunson
daughter in law of Edward Brunson ("Mr.Ed")
[email protected]
If anyone knew my brother during his years of service I would love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected] Maybe I can learn more about the brother I loved but was to young to know and understand.
Thanks,
Lisa Mitten
If anyone knew him please send e-mail at Victor Villalobos
Here is a copy of his Silver Star citation.
For service as set forth in the following CITATION:
H. W. BUSE, JR.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL, U. S. MARINE CORPS
COMMANDING GENERAL, FLEET MARINE FORCE, PACIFIC
