Al and daughter Gina, 11/99
Alfonse Costanza
U.S. Army
101st Airborne, B Co., "Strike
Force"
1966-1969
01/30/47 ~ 03/07/99
If you knew someone who is listed here and would like to add to the tribute, please send it to me using the form.
Alfonse Costanza
U.S. Army
101st Airborne, B Co., "Strike
Force"
1966-1969
01/30/47 ~ 03/07/99
He will be laid to rest in the Columbarium at Arlington National Cemetery on May 28, 1999.
Your battle didn't end in Vietnam, it had just begun. You fought until the very end my love, now it is time for you to finally be at peace, emotionally and physically. Not a day, hour or second goes by where I don't miss you.
Your children, Al and Gina cherish their memories and miss you dearly. When I bring you to your final resting place, I will do so with tears in my eyes because I miss you so, but I will leave at peace knowing your suffering has finally ended. You'll always be my "Trooper", kid.
I Love you,
Your wife, Susan
I found some of his letters as we cleaned my father's home in preparation to sell it (our Dad died six months prior to Billy).
It would mean a great deal to me to talk to someone who knew him in Nam. Although I will never understand that experience I want to know as much about my brother as I can. I am struggling with this loss, the guilt and sadness. My brother's death was a suicide. We miss him very much.
If anyone knew Billy please contact me at mailto:[email protected]
His loving sister,
Ginny
'Til we meet again. God Bless you Bro!!!!
Jerry "Cupo" Montecupo
His rank was GMG1, his serial# 2699698.
I would appreciate any information anyone has on him.
Thank you
Albert Miner
This is my uncle I never got to meet. When he died I was just a baby. My family has told me that he gave his life to save one of his friends that got wounded in the war. Even thought I never meet this man I will always be proud to be his niece.
I now am a mother of three children that he will never know but they will be told of their great uncle and how he gave his life to help someone else.
Uncle Ronny I will always love you.
God Bless you Dad...
KIA September 10, 1967 in Quang Tri Province, South VietNam. Steve was TAD from Co. "E" Kamiseya, Japan. Steve always did his best and gave his all for our country.
Semper Fi Steve.
A friend and fellow Marine,
William R. O'Brien
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.
R. B. received the following medals while serving his country: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal w/60 Device, The PURPLE HEART. He was also a Green Beret and with the 101ST Airborne.
He will be sadly missed by his family and friends. As will all of the fine young men that gave a part of themselves to protect and serve their country and loved ones. Junior was a great person and a wonderful father to two girls: Bridgette and Teresa. A friend and brother to 7 sisters: Barbara Sewell, Ann Tooley, Ellizabeth Harrell, Charlotte Sloan, Diane Zea, Janie Wilkins, and Sue Sanders; 1 brother Johnny Teague. Father R. B. Teague Sr. passed away in September of 1998.
During the pass six months, I was honored to be able to listen to Junior talk about some of his experience in the War. I was told how he lead his troop to safety after a surprise attack and was shoot himself. I remember watching the news during the war to see if we could see him, and a time or two we were able to. Junior carried his experience with the Army around with him all the time, it was something he couldn't talk about for the longest time, except with his fellow countrymen that served. He never forgot his fellow men and either should we.
Let's all take time out of busy lives and remember those loved ones that were very so brave and fought a war that changed their and ours lives forever, for it is an experience that no man will ever and should never forget.
Junior, you will be sadly missed by each and everyone of your family and friends, but you will never be forgotten for the bravery and love you gave to those close to you. You are now in heaven and God will take care of you
May you now rest in peace.
In loving remembrance from your family,
Always in my thoughts.
So to all of you I say thank you for allowing me to do my best in caring for you and as I do now as a part time VA doc. I feel for you all, for the PTSD, the artifical legs,, the stories you have told me that I keep in confidence.
I still vividly see the 24th evac every night in my thoughts or dreams and when the pressure of the memories gets to great, I push myself into the VIP room which was dark, cold with great air conditioning, and allowed me to unload the memories of the horrid visions.
Thanks for letting me write this in anonymity and letting me help get some of the demons out of my mind. I too cry almost daily for the losses and the knowledge that such youthfulness was never allowed to grow old and raise families, etc.
Many of us say that those who died were the lucky ones who do not relive the memories over and over.
"His courageous actions were directly responsible for saving the life of his fellow soldier."
He participated in 25 rescue missons while serving in Vietnam. He recieved the Soldiers Medal for heroism, two Air Medals, Army Commendation Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. They were awarded to his family upon his death.
He died proud for the country that he loved. I never meet my courageous cousin, he died before I was even born. I have heard many stories about him ever since I was born. He was a door gunner with the 174th Aviation Company. I would love to hear from anyone that remembers anything about my cousin.
Please email me atmailto:%[email protected]
We all miss you and love you Ray!! Rest in peace.
My father msgt Robert L. Crowder served his two tours in vietnam while in the army. he retired from the army in 1974. he also served in the navy during the korean conflict. he was totally dedicated to the army in which he so proudly served and to his family, especially his eleven grandchildren.
thank you for your time and efforts to honor those who served. they deserve every accolade bestowed upon them. as a kid growing up in the military you are painfully aware of the sacrifices soldiers make for their country. it takes a special breed of individual to serve. thanks to everyone who has served this great country the past 230 years. today is here because of your duty and honor to this country. thank you
God bless all those who served.
I am one of his baby brothers. My name is Neil Rust and I would like to let you know that there are people in this country that remember vividly a terrible time in America's past. I never really knew my big brother and somehow I feel cheated. I am sure had he survived the bullets in vietnam... He would have been an awesome human being... I guess it's been a long time since we've come across a web site of this kind... and this time I just had to say something about my/our brother Gary...
There are few of my brothers and sisters left, coming from 16 brothers and sisters, made for a rather full, yet humble childhood... Myself ... I am in my 40's now, and look back to see what a full and rewarding life we've all had... I am sure it would not have been so rewarding, had the brave and strong not served their country when they were needed the most...
I will always remember my brother Gary Rust... Even though I never really
knew him... If you can find any more info on Gary Rust, from Southbridge, Mass.,
killed in Vietnam in or around the fall of 1969... Please let me know via the
email addess at... [email protected] or
mailto:[email protected]
We feel that with all the young boys saw and did over there, it was amazing that most of them continued to lead a fairly "common" life. Richard was a care free guy and lived that way, but he never really "came home" to us. We feel he lost his life in Nam, but just left us in May 1998.
I really appreciate all of those that served there and my heart goes out to the families that didn't have theirs come back....I am lucky that I did get more time with Richard, but I still miss him. It has been almost a year and the pain is still too fresh.
After losing my brother in May, I also had to say good bye to my Mom in October 98. She never really recovered from the death of Richard...a parent isn't supposed to bury a child...she, I think, died of a broken heart as well as other things. We are getting thru, but with the help of our Lord and the support of our family and friends...and people like you that make it possible to tell others how we feel about our loved ones .
Thank you.
I met Sam James when I was 9 or 10 years old. He was a wonderful man, and I was so impressed by his uniform. It left a very lasting impression on me.
Capt. James was the WSO in an F4E piloted by Capt. Douglas Martin. Their aircraft went down in Cambodia on 04/18/1973. The policy of his squadron was that they did not wear rescue beepers. Radar and Radio contact was lost with the craft, and none of the wingmen saw it crash. More than 700 square miles were searched, and only a fresh gash in the thick jungle was found where the aircraft apparently went down.
Days later, there was a broadcast by Cambodia, that Capts. James' and Martin's charred bodies were discovered at the crash site. This broadcast was disputed, and dismissed by the US Government as propaganda to my cousin, and Capt. James' family.
That summer, as a boy of 14 years of age, I can remember the pain and anguish my cousin suffered, and their very young daughter that could not comprehend why everyone was so sad. I remember the countless trips to Southeast Asia made by my cousin and Capt. James' family to try to find any information of his whereabouts and status.
Finally, during the summer of last year, an extraction team recovered human remains at the crash site, which subsequently turned out to be the combined remains of Capts. James and Martin according to government and civilian forensics. For my cousin and her daughter, this finally brings a closure to the fate of their beloved Sam. For me, it rocked me.
I felt such sorrow for a man I barely knew, having met him some 31 years ago. I wore his MIA bracelet until he was declared KIA/BNR in 1975. At the same time, I felt a rage boil up in me. Based on the information I can put my hands on, it appears that our Government not only denied any knowledge of his status, but made every effort to cause his family great grief and distress for 26 years with misleading information and false hope. In the documentation I could find, there was a letter from his sister, whom I have never met, dated 01/02/1999 in which she expresses much the same feelings as I regarding the Government's behavior. All that remained to identify Sam was 10 teeth and a dog tag, presumably and reportedly found at the crash site by the excavation team last summer.
I can only say that I believed Sam to be dead many years ago. But not knowing for sure for 26 years, and having to find out by a letter out of the blue from my cousin was almost more than I could take. I felt such emptiness, and such betrayal by our Government. For the first time in my life, I tasted a very small drop in the vast ocean of misery that the families and loved ones of the heroes who paid the ultimate price for their country. I don't know how they have survived the grief.
For Sam, we miss you. YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN.
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!
when he received his orders for ton son nhut air base,south viet nam, my mother elizabeth became another casualty. why my son ,when no other mothers she knew were sending there sons. that war took a piece out of her.
jack just died of cancer.
he leaves behind a wife who loved him very much and four great kids, john 22, margaret 18, tim 16 and andrew 11. his mother and father a sister and a brother. jack always did his duty and much much more.
God you'll be missed very much
Farewell old marine.
Note: The link above has a nice picture of Tommy Noonan along with other tributes and his MOH citation
God bless the dead.
He did two tours of Vietnam, the last one being in 1969, and I am unsure of when the other tour was.
He was a loving person who will be greatly missed by those who knew him.
His hobby was collecting military memorabilia.
Since most of you did not know Ted, and a few misunderstood him, I am going to ask your indulgence, and tell you a little about him, since I was his very close friend for 44 years.
We first met at Luke Air Force base in 1955 as young Captains instructing fighter gunnery. He had previously completed a combat tour in Korea, flying F-84's. He and I had three things in common. We both loved to fly, party, and fish. Over the years we stayed in close touch, and after his retirement, we fished together many times.
He was assigned to South Vietnam in F-4's while I was in Thailand flying out-country missions, in F-105's. When he showed up in Hanoi, I couldn't fathom how he had gotten there. After we were released, I learned that he was shot down during the battle at Khe Sanh, bailed out and captured in Laos by the North Vietnamese (they were never in Laos! -yah, right!). On the second day of his capture while he was starting his walk to Hanoi, he was heavily sprayed with Agent Orange. In the ensuing days, he walked through many areas that had been previously defoliated.
As he was captured in Laos, he was kept away from the rest of us and spent his first 3 years in solitary confinement. He was then put in with the 100 plus, Army and civilian prisoners and was the Senior Officer. He had his hands full with a group of very young, non-motivated and rebellious enlisted men. Unlike our group, (after the death of HO), he was badly treated by his captors, almost up to our release. He was badly beaten during this time for acting as SRO and on one occasion, suffered severe head injuries, which several years later resulted in his being medically
discharged from the service. He had been on the "fast track" prior to shoot down, and had been promoted to Lt. Col. below the zone. To my knowledge, he was the only POW promoted (to 06) below the zone while a POW. Those concussions he suffered forced his early retirement.
He was not an active member of our group, primarily because he did not know or serve with any of us in Hanoi. He also felt that even though our group elected to be non-political, we should have made an exception and taken a prominent stand as a potential powerful lobby group, to demand a full accounting of the MIA's. He was an individual of deep loyalties, and a boundless love of his country and flag. He stood up tall against those he felt were in the wrong.
His medical specialists felt that his Lukemia was a direct result of his repeated heavy exposures to Agent Orange. The Veterans Administration however, in their infinite wisdom felt otherwise, and denied his emergency claim for Agent Orange disabilities. (Hence no DIC for his wife).
He ended up loosing a promising military career and suffered an early end to his life, in his service to his country. I shall truly miss him.
Thanks for your indulgence.
GBU Ted.
SWEDE LARSON
SWEDE LARSON
May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be at your back.
May the
sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields,
And
until we meet again.
RIDE TO LIVE
LIVE TO RIDE
KEEP ON RIDIN' DAD
PFC ' SKIP' Grover Cleavland Bowen
United States Army
Gunner and Crew
chief
09 - 20 - 48
KIA 02 - 19 - 69
Empty his heart of all but blood,
Make him live in sweat and mud.
This is the life I have to live
And why my soul to the devil I give;
You 'Peace boys' put from your easy chair,
But you don't know what it's
like over here;
You have a ball without near trying,
While over here the boys are dying;
You burn your draft card and march at dawn,
Plant your flags on the White
House lawn;
You all want to ban the bomb;
'There's no real war in Vietnam.'
You use your drugs and have yoiur fun,
Then you refuse to use a gun;
There's nothing else for you to do,
And I'm supposed to die for you?
I'll hate you to the day I die,
You made me hear my buddy cry;
I saw his arm, a bloody shred,
I heard them say: "This one's dead."
It's a large price he had to pay:
Not to live to see another day;
He had the guts to fight and die;
He paid the price, but what did he buy?
He bought your life by losing his,
But who gives a damn what a soldier
gives?
HIs wife does, and maybe his son,
But they're just about the only ones.
So you put this man there, all alone,
And he died for you - 12,000 miles
from home.
Your memory still lives on.....
Farewell Sam and Semper Fi.
Tom
Ron was 49 years old. Farewell old Marine.
Bill was a much decorated soldier who served with the 101st Airborne division, as a Military Policeman and much more. He was packed to be shipped home when they asked for volunteers for one more mission. That mission turned out to be his last. I have been trying to piece together Bills military record as we found a red beret that the government won't tell us anything about other than we should be very proud of him.
Bill graduated from Palmyra High School in 1967 and joined the service immediately thereafter. He was a loving brother to me though I only had him a short time.
I would appreciate hearing from anyone who may have known Bill. We have a lot of pictures of the guys he served with but no names were ever attached.
Dale Skinner
Email Dale using
this automatic email form
lynda arneson dokken
ON THAT MORNING OF 26 OCT 66 A DAY WHICH WILL ALWAYS BE BURNED IN MY MIND A FIRE BROKE OUT IN THE FORWARD STARBOARD SIDE FLARE LOCKER. JUST A FEW FEET FROM WHERE I WAS STANDING. THE FIRE CAUSED BY TWO TIRED AND EXHAUSTED CREWMEN, THE FIRE QUICKLY ENGULFED BAY ONE. WHICH WAS LOADED FOR A MORNING RAID IN VIET WITH A-4S AND F-8S, AND HELOS FROM DIFFERENT SQUADRONS ON BOARD. FATHER GARRITY WAS RUNNING AROUND OFFERING HELP AND GIVING LAST RITES TO THOSE WHO DIED. HE WOULD RUN INTO THE FIRE AND BE TURNED BACK BY THE HEAT, THAT WOULD NOT STOP HIM.
HE MADE IT BACK TO THE "FIRE" BUT ONLY TO PERISH. THEIR HAS NOT BEEN A DAY IN MY LIFE THAT I HAVE NOT THOUGHT OF THAT DAY AND THE HEROISM OF "FATHER GARRITY" HE WILL ALWAYS REMAIN A HERO OF HEROES IN MY HEART.
GOD BLESS HIM AND THE REST OF THE CREW WHO DIED THAT DAY.
HE WHO IS DEAD WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN AS LONG AS WE REMEMBER THEM IN OUR HEARTS .
from a shipmate and friend
INWARDLY WOUNDED IN COUNTRY..VIETNAM...1966-1968..P.T.S.D. SO RUGGED I HELD MY BELOVED IN THE NIGHT, AS HE WHIMPERED IN PAINFUL DREAMS..MY SOLDIER, SEMPER FI, I SO LOVE HIM, WE ALL DID...
THE HEART GAVE AWAY AT ONLY 48 YEARS OF AGE, ALONG WITH THE WEARY STRUGGLE, YET I FOUND THE PAPERS HE LEFT BEHIND FOR ME, FOR YOU, ALL OF YOU SOLDIERS, WE ARE ALL IN GODS ARMY THEY SAY, NEVER BREAK STRIDE, NO MATTER WHAT, STAY FOCUSED, KEEP YOUR EYES ON JESUS, THATS ALL THAT REALLY MATTERS BELOVED ONE...
PAPERS LEFT UNFINISHED, INTENDED TO OUTREACH TO OTHER HURTING VIETNAM VETS AND THEIR FAMILIES..GOD GAVE ME THIS VISION HONEY....ONLY HIS COMMANDER IN CHIEF ORDERED HIM TO REPORT HOME...TO HEAVEN.....PAPERS...COMMANDOS FOR CHRIST...
HE CALLED ME SOLDIER LADY.....YOU CAN DO IT, JAN. I DIDN'T UNDERSTAND...HE KNEW HE WAS DYING...SO RUGGED MY MARINE...SO GENTLE INSIDE, COVERED UP OF COURSE...(SMILE) HE WOULD WANT ME TO CONTINUE, SO MUST ALL OF YOU....WE MUST BE STRONG..WITH A GENTLE STRENGTH, THE KIND OF BOLD GENTLENESS THAT ONLY GOD CAN GIVE. THIS WORLD, GOVERNMENT , WELL ....JUST LOOK TO JESUS, O.K? I SO MISS YOU MY HUSBAND, MY MARINE....THE SOFT TOUCH OF MY HAND WILL NOT TRIGGER FLASHBACKS IN YOU ANYMORE, FOR YOU HAVE THE TOUCH OF THE MASTERS HAND UPON YOU...YOU SALUTE MY LORD FOR ME JIMMY...UNTIL ...I SEE HIM, AND YOU BELOVED....
I FEEL LIKE I HAVE BEEN TO VIETNAM MYSELF...THE STUFF YOU SAID, THE STUFF YOU DIDN'T SAY..THE LOUDNESS, THE SILENCE...ITS OVER....YOU ALWAYS SANG..THIS SONG YOU SAID GOD GAVE YOU..."GOTTA KEEP MARCHIN', MARCHIN; MARCHIN, MARCHIN THROUGH THIS LAND, GOTTA KEEP MARCHIN, MARCHIN, MARCHIN......NEVER COULD GET THE FINAL VERSE TO THAT SONG FOR THE LAST TWO YEARS ,,UNTIL...JUST BEFORE....YOU BURST INTO A BIG OLD SMILE FROM EAR TO EAR, JAN, HONEY, I GOT IT, GOD SAYS...KEEP ON MARCHIN....TIL I TAKE HOLD OF THE FATHERS HAND.....YOU SMILED, I STOOD STILL..8-21-99 YOUR FINAL FAREWELL SALUTE MY MARINE:
JIMMY LYNN SHELL, UNITED STATES MARINE CORP. VIETNAM...GOD SAW YOU THE WHOLE TIME THROUGH....SO FAREWELL, MARINE, YOU FOUGHT A GOOD FIGHT, YOUR RAN THE RACE, AND KEPT THE FAITH.....BELOVED...REST IN PEACE ...4-EVER COMMANDO, I AM PROUD OF YOU, AND IT REALLY DOESN'T MATTER THAT YOU DIDN'T GET YOUR 100% DISABILITY UNTIL AFTER YOU DIED, \ YOU GAVE 100 PER CENT IN VIETNAM, AND THE DAY YOU ENTERED THAT WAR YOU WERE COMPLETELY SERVICE CONNECTED. I AM SO GLAD THAT THERE IS NO "RED TAPE" WHERE YOU ARE DARLIN'....MY HEART GOES OUT TO ALL VETERANS EVERYWHERE....
ANYONE KNOWING MY JIMMY, MARINE : JIMMY LYNN SHELL...PLEASE RESPOND, HE WAS GONE TO DOMICILIARY CARE SO MUCH...PORTLAND OREGON , WHITE CITY, NORTH CAROLINA VA, LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS, BILUXI, MISSISSIPPI, LIKE SO MANY P.T.S.D. VETS. GOD BE WITH YOU ALL....IN LOVING MEMORY OF : COMMANDO FOR CHRIST: MARINE" "JIMMY LYNN SHELL" DIED: 8-21-98-BURIED IN LOUISIANA. FULL MILITARY HONORS, 21 GUN SALUTE..MY BELOVED BUDDY...MY MARINE.....MY HERO...MY HUSBAND....ROMANS 8:31 IF GOD BE FOR YOU ...WHO CAN BE AGAINST YOU? (ONE OF YOUR INTENDED COMMANDO FOR CHRIST BIBLE VERSES.
IF ANYONE OUT THEIR KNEW MY HUSBAND, OR IF YOU ALSO ARE A WIDOW, LETS KEEP IN TOUCH AND HELP EACH OTHER HELP EACH OTHER. EMAIL: [email protected]
UNITED STATES MARINE: JIMMY LYNN SHELL ..VIETNAM VETERAN FAREWELL SALUTE..IS IN ORDER ...HERE... DIED 8-21-98
The following citation was given to all those who served with these men. Others like SP4 Danny Fernandez Medal of Honor,(February 18,1966 Joseph Benton, (KIA February 18, 1966) and others who sacrificed there life later in the war are not covered in this list.
VALOROUS UNIT AWARD
The 2nd Brigade Task Force, 25th Infantry Division, distinguished itself by extraordinary heroism in ground combat against the Viet Cong in the Republic of Vietnam during the period January through April 1966. Ordered to secure a base of operations for itself and the remainder of the 25th Infantry Division in the vicinity of the town Tan An Hoi in the Cu Chi District of Vietnam, the Brigade Task Force embarked on 66 days of continuos combat operations in a completely Viet Cong dominated, heavily entrenched and fiercely defended area.
On January 1966, combat operations began to seize, clear and secure the area selected for a base of operations. For the initial four days, brigade combat elements moved forward against devastating automatic weapons and never-ending harrassing sniper fire, well established mine fields and vast underground systems of tunnels, trenches, spider holes and fortifications unrivaled in Vietnam. Displaying extraordinary heroism and unwavering determination, task force elements methodically cleared the area of a fanatical enemy force that was manning the fortifications.
This entire action was characterized by numerous acts of personnel sacrifice and heroism. During the period 30 January to 5 April, the Brigade conducted eleven major operations against the Viet Cong with battalion or larger sized forces engaged in fierce battle against a hostile enemy. On 5 April 1966, after 66 days of continuous combat, the Brigade had seized, cleared and secured the base of operations and surrounding area in the vicinity of Cu Chi, Republic of Vietnam. A total of 449 Viet Cong had been killed by body count. Viet Cong activities throughout the Cu Chi District were severely disrupted and the Viet Cong greatly discredited in the eyes of the local populace. During those momentous 66 days, the Brigade displayed utmost courage and indomitable spirit, and as a unit it demonstrated extraordinary heroism as it unwaveringly and unceasingly pitted itself against hard core, experienced, and entrenched and determined enemy forces.
The indomitable spirit and extraordinary heroism with which the 2nd Brigade Task Force engaged, battled and defeated a fortified and determined enemy during this period of continuos combat operations is in keeping with the finest tradition of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon all members of the Task Force who participated in the Battle for Cu Chi.
(Department of the Army, GO #20 25 April 1976) If you know anyone else that needs to be added to this list. Please Contact Dr. David N. Smeltz. E-Mail [email protected] Home page Pastor 7777 (HOME PAGE)
I WAS ONCE ASKED WHY I WEAR IT. I GUESS I WANT TO SHOW PEOPLE THAT THE WAR ISN'T OVER. NOT FOR THE PEOPLE WHO LOST FAMILY MEMBERS OR THOSE WHOSE FAMILY MEMBERS NEVER CAME HOME. I KNOW THIS IS A MEMORIAL PAGE, SO THIS MY MEMORIAL:
TO ALL THOSE WHO ARE STILL THERE OR WHO WERE FORGOTTEN BY THE MAJORITY OF SOCIETY, DO NOT GIVE UP HOPE BECAUSE IN A SMALL TOWN OF CALIFORNIA THERE IS A FIFTEEN YEAR OLD GIRL WHO WILL DO ANYTHING SHE CAN TO KEEP YOUR MEMORY ALIVE. TO ALL THOSE WHO DID NOT COME HOME YOUR MEMORY IS ALIVE AND I HOPE YOU REST IN PEACE
N. GREEN
Email Nicole Green
All we know is that the tank he was in ran over a land mine. He "commenced tour in Vietnam 13 May 1968" and died July 6, 1968 "from wounds and burns received while passenger in military vehicle on combat operation when vehicle hit hostile mine."
We all miss him....
Candace Roberts Lauber
I am desperatly trying to find anyone who may have may have known him. I have found pics and old newspapers and would love to share them with friends and family members who served between 1965-1968. I am looking for a close friend of his, Mark W. Click.
If you have any information , or feel I can help you, please email me
I have missed my brother and thought of him everyday for 32 years.
"Rest in Peace, Steve."
Two poems Nancy wrote in honor of her brother Steve are in the "From the Heart" gallery
| AC W2 STEPHEN ANTHONY DESANTIS P W1 RICHARD AUTHOR SAWRAN CE E4 LAWRENCE DAVID JACKSON G E3 STEPHAN LEE HARGRAVE
|
A NIGHT IN THE LIFE, AND DEATH, OF FOUR HEROES.
THE FINAL MISSION OF THE "257". DESTINATION?......HEAVEN!
ON THE NIGHT OF 12, SEPTEMBER, 1969, CRID DECLARED A TACTICAL-EMERGENCY AND AT APPROXIMATELY 2130 HOURS , THE "257", WAS LAUNCHED FROM LANE ARMY HELICOPTER PORT. THE CREW OF THE "257", ATTACHED TO THE 129TH ASSAULT HELICOPTER COMPANY, WAS NOT ADVISED OF THE WEATHER BY EITHER THE OPERATIONS OFFICER OF THE 129TH AHC OR LANE TOWER.
THE MISSION OF THE CREW WAS TO EXTRACT ONE VC/POW FROM THE 11TH COMPANY CAV. REGIMENT, AND FLY THE VC/POW TO REPUBLIC OF KOREAN HOSPITAL. ENROUTE THE CREW WAS TO PICK UP PERSONNEL FROM THE CRID TOC, WHICH THEY DID, AND THE CREW THEN REQUESTED, AND RECEIVED, PERMISSION TO FLY THROUGH THE PASS NORTHWEST OF LANE AHP. THE AIRCRAFT ARRIVED AT THE 11TH COMPANY AT APPROXIMATELY 2155 HOURS AND DEPARTED AT 2205 HOURS. THE CREW CONTACTED PHU CAT APPROACH CONTROL AND NOTIFIED THEM THAT THE AIRCRAFT HAD GONE INTO IFR CONDITIONS AND REQUESTED A RADAR VECTOR TO VFR CONDITIONS. THE PILOT REPORTED HIS ALTITUDE WAS 5,000 FEET AND REQUESTED A PRIORITY RADAR VECTOR FOR A GROUND CONTROL APPROACH INTO PHU CAT AIR FORCE BASE. THE PILOT REPORTED HIS POSITION AS OVER THE CHA RANG VALLEY OFF THE 170 RADIAL FROM PHU CAT AFB.
PHU CAT APPROACH CONTROL COULD NOT MAKE A POSITIVE IDENTIFICATION BUT HAD A SUSPECTED RADAR TARGET SEVEN MILES ON THE 170 RADIAL. THE AIRCRAFT COMMANDER REPORTED HE WAS ENCOUNTERING SEVERE TURBULENCE. AT 2212 HOURS PHU CAT CONTROL INSTRUCTED THE AC TO TURN INBOUND TO THE BEACON AND CLIMB TO 6000 FEET. THE PILOT ROGERED THE CONTROLLER'S INSTRUCTION. THIS WAS THE LAST COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE AIRCRAFT AND THE GROUND. AFTER RADIO CONTACT WAS LOST, THE DUST OFF AND GUNSHIPS WERE LAUNCHED, HOWEVER, THE WEATHER CONDITIONS DID NOT PERMIT THE SEARCH AIRCRAFT TO ARRIVE AT THE SCENE UNTIL 0030 HOURS. ( then what the hell was the "257" doing out in that crap?....MJ )
THE "257" IMPACTED ON THE SIDE OF A MOUNTAIN AT 1990 FEET AND 125 FEET FROM THE CREST OF THE MOUNTAIN. THE WRECKAGE SUGGESTS THAT THE AIRCRAFT WAS IN A SLIGHTLY NOSE HIGH ATTITUDE AND WAS IN A SHALLOW RIGHT HAND TURN. THE AIRCRAFT'S LEFT SKID CONTACTED THE GROUND AND THERE WAS A BLADE STRIKE ON THE LEFT SIDE. THE RIGHT SKID HIT NEXT, AND THE AIRCRAFT WAS PITCHED FORWARD, AND UP THE HILL WHERE THE TRANSMISSION AND THE MAIN WRECKAGE REMAINED. THE ENGINE WAS TOSSED FURTHER UP THE HILL, AND THE TAIL BOOM SEPARATED FROM THE FUSELAGE AND CAME TO REST 75 FEET NORTH OF THE ENGINE. THE AIRCRAFT APPEARED TO HAVE BURNED DUE TO IMPACT. ALL ABOARD, GAVE THEIR LIFE, FOR THE COST OF FREEDOM.
I THANK THE STAFF OF THIS PAGE FOR THE TIME, AND SPACE. GOD BLESS YOU!!!! REST ASSURED THAT YOU ARE HELPING TO KEEP THE LOST SOULS SPIRIT'S ALIVE.
THE "NEW 257", TURNING INBOUND TO THE BEACON AND CLIMBING TO 6,000 FT.
LAWRENCE ( LARRY ) DAVID JACKSON
GIVING THE "SIGN OF PEACE", TO ALL OF
US.
I MISS YOU BROTHER!!!!
Contact Mark Jackson using this email form.
Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Hathcock USMC (ret) passed away Monday 22 Feb in Virginia Beach, VA.
He is best known for his duty as a sniper in the Marine Corps and being instrumental in starting the sniper training. His vast knowledge imparted while he served as an instructor and advisor contributed to the SEAL sniper training program. There will be a viewing at Woodlawn Thursday evening and interment on Friday.
Recently his son was promoted to Gunnery Sergeant in the Marine Corps and the promotion ceremony was moved to Virginia Beach to enable Carlos to pin the chevrons on.
"Gunny Hathcock" has been confined to a bed for sometime with multiple sclerosis, a crippling disease. He attended several of the SEAL reunions after being disabled from the dreaded condition because several of the SEALs would pick him up and return him home. Also, they (SEALs) kept check on his needs with constant visits and assistance. A return homage for the friendship and advice they received from the "Gunny."
May GOD take him to the land where suffering is no more.
Anyone From 2/4, e-mail me at Roberta .
Some friends are looking.
There were six letters like this in my Dad's personal effects that I found after his death. "I'm so proud of you, Dad. Rest in Peace."
Nancy Moore
He was an excellent soldier and a wonderful friend. Hershel, brother you are missed and you will be in our hearts like all the rest of our brothers from the vietnam era.
Phil served with the 211th Fighter Squadron and did several tours in the waters off Vietnam. I believe it was aboard the USS Hancock..he talked about having been an airdale...something on the flight deck I believe. He also had some shore duty in Vietnam, but in exactly what capacity, I don't know.
We met when we were 21...both kids just home from VIetnam, and kind of trying to find our way in some trying times. A bond formed between the soldier and the sailor that has lasted, even through death. His sense of humor, which I admit I envied, turned him into everyones best friend.
He went on to have a career with the Raytheon Co. and raised a fine daughter, Andria. He was also know as the founder of The Dickhead Society, and its President Emeritus......our resident irreverent comedian who always dragged the rest of the gang,,,,Wheatie, Drew, Joe, Guido and myself..into the quagmire with him. I would once more like to hear him say to me, right after he said something outrageous to someone, "...isnt that right, Sully?"...and look for confirmation.
In memory of an average guy just trying to make his way.........our friend the Dickhead.
He volunteered for Vietnam in 1965 because mom had 10 kids in the house and our father had just passed away so he thought he could go to war and make money that way. He sent all his pay checks home to mom to feed the kids. He wanted to go to WMU in Kalamazoo Michigan and become a priest, I was a baby when he went to nam. I am his youngest sister and was very close to him. He was a very unselfish man. I am now 34 yrs old and attending WMU in Kalamazoo.
I just feel my brother needs to be seen for the hero that he truly was and not a "baby Killer" or whatever other nonsense that folks come up with.
We graduated together from a small town in Virginia by the name of Staunton. I went into the Air Force and Jerry went in to the Marines. I think of him often as I have had a pretty good life with children and now grand children. I get so mad that he and all the rest didn't get the chances I have had.
I feel so bad about all the young men who gave their all over in Vietnam and no one cares. I just want to say thanks to all of them and they are not forgotten. I want Jerry to know he will never be forgotten as Long as I am alive.
JERRY YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN
Lt. Joe was a great platoon leader and loved by his men. He was a Arkansas Razorback through and through. On the day Joe was killed he was scheduled to return to the rear for stand down prior to PCS. His replacement flew out to the field and Lt. Joe told him to go back in he would stay with the platoon until the end of this last mission.
Two hours later as we moved out from resupply we were ambushed by members of the 33rd NVA Reg. Joe was killed instantly. He had been walking directly behind the point man. I was the senior company medic and I did my best for Joe but he had been hit in the face with an AK 47 and there was nothing I could do.
I just want Joe and his family to know that I think of him often and will never forget him. I don't mind saying I loved him...
I hope we will be together again some day...
I was just a little kid when he was in Vietnam but I remember well the day we picked him up at the airport coming home from their. Roger never talked about Vietnam & for years was very bitter. Its just been over the last couple of years that he came to terms with it.
My brother died Jan 31 1999 after a battling cancer for the last twenty years. We thought he was in remission but we found Oct of 1997 that he had liver cancer & it ended up going to his brain. He fought to the very end never giving up to the last time he closed his eyes. My brother was a true hero & was very proud of his Marine background. All I could do was cry when the Marines folded his flag & played taps for the last time.
All I can say is goodbye brother you were a beautiful person & a true hero.......
During his career with the U.S. Marine Corps (1940-1973) he served under the famous Col. "Chesty" Puller in the 1st Marine Division until he was wounded during the assault on Peleliu Island. He went back to the war during the taking of Okinawa and after war's end spent time in China trying to get the Japanese home before the Chinese killed them.
Returning home, Col. Truesdale did recuiting duties in Knoxville, TN and Boston, MA and Marine R.O.T.C. at Marquette University before being sent to law school for the Marines at Georgetown University, where he was first in his class of twenty Marines thus making him the first Marine Corps lawyer. In 1968 he became the first Judge Advocate General of the Marine Corps and spent a year in that position before going to Vietnam with the Third Amphip Div (Danang) from 1969 to 1970 where he was the circuit judge for the entire war zone. Col. Truesdale retired at Camp Pentleton in California in 1973 basically because as he told me, "I didn't have a snowballs chance in hell of making general."
I miss my dad already. This nation will feel the loss of an unsung hero. This man, my father, my hero.
From LZ Whatever in Paw Paw WV,
JayTee
Memorial services for Col. Truesdale, my father, will be at Pt. Loma Methodist Church in San Diego CA, Saturday, Feb. 20 at 1pm.
From LZ Whatever,
Ronald was in the 4th Infantry Division and was only in Vietnam from August 29, 1969 to November 14, 1969, but had his 21st birthday there.
If anyone served with my brother, I would like to hear from you so I can know him better.
Dorothy Hoffman
My email address is [email protected]
On August 1, 1993,at the age of 45, my father gave into the war and; leaving behind 6 children and our mother. He is missed by everyone of us in so many different ways. I pray that he is able is to see us, as he now has three beautiful grandchildren. It breaks my heart to think of how our lives could have been, and how I know he wanted our lives to be like. It may have gotten harder for us to show it as we got older, but I love and miss my father more than anything; I'm only 21 and he has been dead for 5 years and it's not getting easier because so many new and exciting things are happening that he is missing. Our families are growing, but Dad I want you to know, no matter what, I think of you always, you will never be forgotten and even my three year old knows all about her POP. I love you, Dad, I feel your presence. Meet me at the gates of Heaven.
Until then,
Your Daughter,
Tertia Maria Melluzzo
If any one has any information about or knew my father I would love to hear from you, please write at mailto:[email protected]
Mousey, we still miss ya and love you.
Mary Beth Maloney, Sister
This is in honor of my father, who served 2 tours in Viet Nam, only to be succumbed to Agent Orange Related Illness at the age of 37 in Beaufort, South Carolina. He was a brave man, who insisted upon going to VietNam so his children "would never have to go".
He left behind 8 children and a loving wife, and I was the youngest at 18 months. I would appreciate anyone who knew of him, or spent time with him, contacting me at [email protected]. He received the Bronze Star posthumously, and according to my mother, lived for his Corps.
Sincerely yours,
Amy Scribner-Franzdorf,
West Unity, Ohio
Warren was from Brooklyn, New York.
He will be missed.
Deborah B. Moore 7607
Lone Oak Road Spartanburg, SC
29303.
My husband was Warren George Moore from Brooklyn, New York.
I would like
to hear from friends of his who served with him.
My email is mailto:[email protected]
I would like to get as much information as I can about all aspects of his life. If you served with him or knew him before his death. Please e- mail me at [email protected] . Any information you can provide would be helpful. I would also like to get his military records if possible. I f anyone has any info on how I would do this please let me know. At the time of his death, he was living in dade county, Florida and all of his family was living in Hornell, N.Y. so we know very little about the circumstances surrounding his death. This is something that has haunted me all my life and I won't be able to feel peace until I find out more about him.
Anyone with any information please e-mail me as soon as possible.
Bonnie Ellingsworth
We were stationed together back in l961. I tried finding him for a few years and when I finally talked this lady,his mother, she said "you are a few years to late" he died of lung cancer. I don't know if it was agent orange or what all I know is he didn't smoke but only l cigarette in his life and I was a few years to late.
Rests in peace on a beautiful hill over looking the Salmon River Valley in Salmon , Idaho.
We love you
Mom ,Dad , Carey and Sherry
He was my friend and co-worker and schoolmate. He was killed in Vietnam sometime in the late sixties. He was survived by a new wife , mother father, brothers, and sisters.
I look at your name and remember each time the wall is in my area.
IN MEMORY OF ANTHONY (BRUCE) J. BRUNO (aka TONY). DIED THANKSGIVING DAY, 1990.
Bruce, My father, was as patriotic as Americans can get. He was drawn into the Navy at the age of 18, in 1941, when WWII began. He served as a signalman on the Japanese held island of New Guinea. He made it through that war, and the Korean War. He served as a 4.0 sailor for his entire 32 year career.
He worked his way up to Chief (E-7) and just before his retirement, was sent by the Navy to Vietnam for two tours in the I Corps region of Vietnam. His hooch was at Dong Ha (on the DMZ). He served with MCB-5 (SeaBees) as a safety officer. He made rounds to all nearby bases and in doing so, passed under the constant spray of Agent Orange being applied by the "Ranch Hand" program.
When he finally came home, to retire from the navy, he began a long and painful remainder of his life, as his body literally fell apart from all sorts of strange chronic maladies.
During the winter of 1990, he and my mother drove, on vacation, to Casper, Wyoming. The first day of their stay, my father checked in to the Wyoming Regional Medical Center, complaining of shortness of breath. He rapidly plunged in to what appeared to be a systemic toxemia. He was given every test possible, and the Mayo Clinic and the Department for Disease Control were involved in every specimen taken from him. Now dependent on oxygen, my sister and I drove him home to California, where we took him first to the Local Regional Hospital, and then to UCLA Medical Center, where the finest doctors on the west coast could not find what was killing my father.
He was returned to our home town hospital, where he underwent more testing, to no avail. On the eve of Thanksgiving, 1990, we were told by his personal physician, that he would be dead within a day or two. We were told to make our peace with him. The last things he said were, "why me?" and "who will take care of mom?". We all sobbed.
After years of 'fighting' to get my father's name put on the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, I am still fighting (It is now January 1998), I have had no success. I am weary, as I have spent every extra ounce of my life, since my father (and best friend) died. But I can't give up. I know why he died. I know that his name on that wall means nothing to the Government, or probably to most Americans. But it is my life's goal, now. I served my time in-country, and my son just left the U.S. Marine Corps. I know of the pride of being a patriot. I will always love my country, as will all of my family.
My father gave his life for his country. He fought 3 wars and would have fought 3 more, if he had only lived. Bruce Bruno played in many bands, for the troops during his tours in Okinawa, the Philippines, Adak, and Vietnam. I hope someone remembers him.
God Bless America's Veterans.
He was a friends best friend. Frank will be missed by a lot of people. It wasn't a war that killed Frank,It was red lead paint that was a contributing factor to his death by killing his kidneys.
What bothers me is that the government wanted to cut off his medical coverage, even though he spent 26+ years on active duty. Thanks to people like Colan Powell, Franks medical was paid for. They cry for people to serve during a war but soon as it's over they forget.
We must stick together to survive. Thanks Frank for the memories
I spent 21 years in the military with a tour in viet nam at camp carrol on the dmz .I loved my brother
I know I�m Dutch and only 31 but I�ve always had a special place in my heart for all those Vets who�ve been through so much.They all gave themselfs to the world and the world never acknowledged them.
Because of that I adopted a POW/MIA named Walter Alan Cichon(UsArmy).I�m making a special place for him on my homepage to honour him and to take a stand.I also want all the Vets and family and friends of the Vets to know that I wrote a poem for all of you.
This is for all that didn�t come back and were KIA.
Now that the mourning commotion around you has died down
the procession
has passed by
the shuffling feet
Now I feel the deep silence coming
and
in that silence
I shall meet you again
Ever so often I will come across
you
too soon we say:....It�s over.....
God only took away your body
not
who you were
and what you said
Your soul will be with us
forever
Together we�ll walk
talking
through the silent landscape
Now
that my hands can�t touch you no more..........
You touch my heart even
clearer.
HE SERVED IN THE VIET NAM WAR . HE SERVED TWO TOURS IN THE WAR. HE RECENTLY WAS ON SECURITY WITH THE NATIONAL GUARD AT THE OLYMPICS IN ATLANTA. HE WAS IN ARMY INTELLIGENCE IN THE WAR. MORSE INTERCEPT. HE WORKED WITH YOUNG KIDS TO GET THEM OFF DRUGS. HE WAS MARRIED 19 YEARS TO SUE, AND 4 WONDERFUL GIRLS. INCLUDING A SET OF TWINS... HE IS SADLY MISSED BY ALL. HE TRULY WAS A GREAT MAN AND FRIEND, FATHER,AND HUSBAND.........
A FRIEND
His passing has caused great sadness in the hearts of those who knew him.
a friend
On Memorial Day at the Wall; May 25,1998 his name was added to the wall along with Charles L. Vanover; Herman J. Vollmer; Vernon L. Ostertag; and Robert M. Swick. Martin now resides with his brothers at Panel 8 West, Line 81.
Paul A. Angrisano
Chief Service Rep.
VVA New York State Council
He gave his life for his country and he will never be forgotten by his loved ones or by me.
In peace this holiday season.
I ask forgiveness from his family, friends and all those that loved him as I did, for my lapse of honor to our vows to each other should I be a survivor and he was not.
I still have his wings (Blood?) and would like to keep our promise, and give his wings to the next of kin, as promised.
My wings were with him at the time of his death. I am so sorry it took me 33 years to face up to my responsiblility and turn them over to his family and love ones.
I am deeply sorry, please forgive me. He has never been out of my thoughts, prayers, dreams or life over these 33 tormented years.
I was finally able to get some help on August 08, 1994 for PTSD as a result of his death and other events shortly therafter his death (most of you Viet-Vets under- stand) at our fine MVAMC here in Miami, as well numerous outreach centers, just waiting to help us,help ourselves and our families.
I can't express enough how grateful me and my family are for their intervention and saving me from myself and my grief, which had become more than I could bear at times.
I would like to see more Viet-Vets help themselves and their families in particular (they suffer the most I think, because they feel helpless and powerless when they see us suffering and not getting help) because there is help and hope and very dedicated people, well trained, well equipped, and waiting to help, if we would help ourselves first.
We as Viet-Vets have to take that first step on that "Last Patrol" know one else can do it for us, only us.
So if not for yourself, then do it for all the "GG's" on the WALL and your suffering families, they suffer with you also, even more so I think.
Humbly asking for forgiveness
Pfc James D. Sims
Co a 2nd Bn 502 Inf. 101st Abn. Div.
South Vietnam
July 20th-September 27, 1965?
I love you my big brother and will keep you in my heart always.
14 years later, I'm still trying to come to terms with his death and find closure. After his funeral, my mother cut my brother and I off from his side of the family for her own selfish reasons. It wasn't until 2 years ago that I finally reunited with them. It was very helpful hearing stories about my father that I never heard before. There are still many unanswered questions I have about him.
He served in the Army in the HHB Div Arty 9th Inf Div USARPAC, in and around the Saigon Area from 3/67 - 4/68.
He never spoke of his tour of duty - not even to my mother or his family. He has a collection of slides he took while in Vietnam - showed them to me when I was 12... mostly his buddies and rice paddies. I don't know why he showed them to us, but he didn't say much when projecting them onto the screen.
As I get older, my childhood memories of him grow dimmer and dimmer. I hope that someone out there knew him and can share something about him with me. My e-mail address is: mailto:[email protected]
I know now that he's in a better place now.
Les Wilson
For what is it to die but to stand naked in the wind and to melt into the sun?
And what is it to cease breathing but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered?
Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing
And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb
And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance
Does anyone know him or can you provide me with any information on this units history.
send any info to [email protected]
David or Charles Walker
He was a wonderful father and a great husband.. For many years my father suffered from Lung Cancer related from Agent Orange. He is proceeded in death by his oldest brother Rich (who was also in the Vietnam War, and his oldest daughter Danielle who died June 17th,1997.He leaves behind his wife Madeline, his daughter Denise and his son-in-law Anthony.
We love you daddy and we will see you when are time is up. Meet us at the gates to Heaven...
Love,
your family forever
Ken and I served together at Binh Thuy over the Great Tet Offensive.
I have written a book containing considerable material relating to my Viet Nam experiences, including a truthful description of the heroic manner in which Kenneth gave his life in battle.
I miss him very much. He was a loving husband to my mom and a wonderful father to all of us kids.
thank you,
Tammy Haines-Sims
Email to Tammy if you can give her any information about her dad
His forgiving and loving daughter, Stacie.
Jim, In our hearts you will always be....never will we forget you.
Love Always....
Janice & Jarrett
Julie, Ashley &
Andrew
Rebecca
Kenneth was in the Air force. He was also a POW in WWII and Vietnam. He was held a year and a half durring WWII and a few months in Vietnam.
He was a very important man in his community as well as those of us who he touched our lives. He will be missed by all!
Thank you very much
I am sure many, many of the war veterans and their families know this road too well. I miss my dad more each day! He is survived by his wife Mary, his 23 year old son , John David & myself, Tracy Marie 20 years old. We miss you dad more than we could say, thank you for all the great memories!!!! Rest in Peace until we see you again!!!!
Thank you for your time & you and your families are in our thoughts and prayers!
Tracy Marie Blanchette ( David L. Blanchette's daughter)
[email protected]
Jim, as he was know to his family, was killed in a one car accident in Idaho on September 25, 1998. He was a tough little shit bird who had survived many auto accidents and motorcycle wrecks in the past - I guess we always figured he was too mean to die.
Jim, who was also known as "Redwood City Shorty", was essentially told to join the military or go to jail. He choose the Army 'cause they could take him right away. After basic he went to paratrooper school. He was the first to leave the plan, but the last to hit the ground. He was little, but he was tough - many a bigger man mad the mistake of thinking they could whip his little butt.
Jim was assigned to Casper Platoon of the 173rd Airborne in either late 70 or early 71. He was a helicopter maintenance worker, who also flew as a gunner. He was flying as a gunner one day when the helicopter he was riding on was shot down. Jim was wounded in that action. We would joke about him getting the "I forgot to duck badge", but he was proud of his service in Vietnam.
He and the Army did not get along very well and parted ways as quickly as possible. Jim came home and tried to become a civilian. He had a hard time adjusting. He was trained to be an auto body man - and he was a darn good one, but he had a hard time keeping a job. Sooner or later someone would say something to him and then Jim would end up quitting or being fired.
Jim had a lot of trouble with PTSD. For years we had been trying to get him to get treatment, but he wanted nothing to do with the VA. Finally, in the Spring of 1998, Jim applied and was accepted at the American Lake Veterans Hospital near Tacoma, Washington. He finished the program in mid August and was awarded a 60% disability. He was still waiting on his first check when he was killed.
Jim is survived by two sons, James and P.J and by a daughter Annette.
I miss you bro' . We were the only ones who could really understand what the other was talking about. WELCOME HOME.
Your cousin,
WO1 OSCAR MAYER III KIA 060469
WO1 JOSEPH ZAPPINI KIA 060469
SP4
PATRICK FINCH KIA 060469
SP5 MICHAEL TURNER KIA 060469
CPT GREGORY ENGEL
KIA 072469
PFC JAMES CARMAN KIA 020170
SP4 LEE LESHEN KIA 020870
SP5
MICHAEL MERENO KIA 020870
CW2 WILLIAM PISHNER JR. KIA 031070
WO1 LEONARD
CUNNINGHAM KIA 031270
WO1 JAY DANDURAND KIA 031270
SP4 GARY McNICHOL KIA
031270
And especially for my Gunner:
SP4 CHARLES CUMMINGS KIA 031270
REST IN PEACE MY FRIENDS
my good friend your shadow is with me all the days and nites of my life
i am used to you being there now after 30 yrs may god smile on your face forever as i shall some day
I miss you Martin Carranza
this poem I write for you, Daddy.....
"Someday"
Someday, Daddy,
I will be able to finally
Hold your hand....
Someday, Daddy,
I will be able to see you
In that Heaven land...
Someday, Daddy,
We will walk among the clouds...
Together.....
I too am a veteran of Viet Nam, and I shared many hours with Larry in the few short years I knew him, and this man was truly an American Hero. He started his Military career serving four years in the Army including a tour in Viet Nam and then served another 18 years as a Navy CB. His military career ended with a medical retirement.
In 1985 He started going downhill and finally was laid to rest in 1998. He was preceded in death by his infant daughter Christine also an Agent Orange casualty and a younger brother.
He was an American, a Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Friend in ways that few men can ever accomplish. We Miss You Old Man. May this deployment end your suffering and give you everlasting peace.
I love you my big brother and will keep you in my heart always.
JUNGLE JANE AS STEVE WAS KNOWN WAS A GRUNT'S GRUNT AND I'M NOT ASHAMED TO SAY I LOVED HIM DEARLY.
BRO. ITS BEEN MANY YEARS... TOO MANY SINCE WE LAUGHED AND JOKED, DREAMED OF THE WORLD. JUNGLE JANE (HE WAS PROUD OF THAT NAME) HE WAS TIGHT AS A DRUM IN THE JUNGLE LIKE HE WAS BORN THERE AND HIS GIRLS NAME WAS JANE HENCE THE NAME STUCK.
I MISS YOU. THE TIMES WE HAD TOGETHER AND THE DANGER WE SHARED. JANE WAS FROM WASHINGTON STATE. YOU HAVE A LOT TO BE PROUD OF IN THIS MAN. I AM BRO. I NEEDED TO SHARE THIS TIME WITH YOU.
I was also close to Larry Reese and it has been hard to talk to him since his brother died. Larry was A Marine and I think that his brother was too.
John J. Turner, 65, died Tuesday, Oct. 27, at the Jamaica Plains Veterans Administration Hospital in Boston. He was buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetary
He was the husband of Sheila Turner.
He was born in Lowell, on Aug. 15, 1933, a son of the late Ernest and Margaret (McShane) Turner. He received his early education in Lowell schools. In 1949, Mr. Turner competed in The Lowell Sun Charities Golden Gloves in the 147-pound class, being stopped only by Norman Hayes.
At the outbreak of the Korean War, he enlisted in the Marine Corps at age 17. He served from August 1953 until his honorable discharge on Aug. 18, 1955. He was awarded the Purple Heart for having been wounded in action in Korea, as well as the Korean Service Medal, U.N. Service Medal, Korean PUC and National Defense Service Medal.
He returned to Lowell in August 1955 and worked as a painting contractor for several years, prior to purchasing the Farragut Hotel, which was the start of "JJ's Pub," a Lowell institution that had a reputation of providing meals and care to any veteran visiting Lowell.
He was a member of many veterans organizations, including the Marine Corps League, which he helped to form and had sponsored many Marine Corps Birthday Parties at the Pub; the Military Order of the Purple Heart; and the Walker Rogers Post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, where he was a life member.
Mr. Turner was known to donate considerable time and money to Lowell veterans functions, and had raised funds for the "Moving Wall" as well as the Desert Storm support. Mr. Turner also supported the Challenge Unlimited program at Iron Stone Farm, a therapeutic riding program for the mentally challenged.
Besides his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Amy J. Turner of Lowell; two brothers, Edward D. Turner of Lowell, and Robert F. Turner of Billerica; and three sisters, Margaret Hunter of Bellport, N.Y., Ruth Drapel of East Patchogue, N.Y., and Jane Hololob of Yaphank, N.Y.John J. Turner
MY HUSBAND WAS A FIGHTER INTO THE VERY END. HEJOINED THE ARMY WHEN HE WAS 17 AND WAS PARALYZED WHEN STRUCK BY GUNFIRE INVIETNAM. HE WAS IN THE 1ST. CALVARY DIV.AND THE 82nd AIRBORNE.. HIS MILITARYAWARDS WERE THE PARACHUTIST BADGE, EXPEDITIONARY MEDAL, AND 3 PURPLE HEARTS.
EVEN THOUGH JOE HAD TO USE A WHEELCHAIR, IT DID NOT STOP HIM. HE DIDEVERYTHING BUT WALK. JOE HUNTED, HE SWAM, AND WHAT MANY WILL REMEMBER BEST ISPHOTOGRAPHY. JOE LOVED TAKEN PICTURES OF THE OUT DOORS. WHEN LOOKING AT HISWORK YOU FELT LIKE YOU WERE THERE. JOE WON MANY AWARDS FOR HIS WORK, HE NEVERSOLD MANY OF HIS PICTURES, HE WOULD GIVE THEM AWAY. HE ONCE SENT ONE TO JIMMYCARTER, WHO SENT HIM A LETTER OF THANKS. HE ALSO HAD A PICTURE HANGING IN THEROTUNDA IN WASHINGTON. IT WAS OUR PLEASURE TO MEET WITH JEAN KENNEDY SMITH,MR. AND MRS. DOWINSKI [THE HEAD OF VET. AFFAIRS AT THAT TIME] AND THE MANYOTHERS AT THE SIGNING OF THE JOINING OF THE VERY SPECIAL ARTS AND THE VETSART.
JOE NEVER LET THE WHEELCHAIR HOLD HIM BACK. WHEN I MET HIM IN 1983, INEVER SAW THE WHEELCHAIR, I SAW A BIG WONDERFUL SMILE AND BRIGHT EYES. WE WERE MARRIED IN 1984. JOE TAUGHT MANY HOW TO BE STRENGTH AND TO GO ON NO MATTER WHAT. JOE HAS LEFT BEHIND A GRANDAUGHTER,WHO NOW I WILL BE RAISING ALONE.
I HAVE BEEN TRULY BLESSED TO HAVE BEEN A PART OF JOSEPH `S LIFE. OUR SOLDER FOUGHT A GOOD FIGHT, BUT THE CANCER TOOK HIS BODY.BUT NOT HIS LIFE ,FOR I KNOW MY HUSBAND IS IN HEAVEN RUNNING THE STREETS OF GOLD. JOSEPH WEAVER I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU AND THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU,
BRENDA WEAVER
I don't know when Roryjoined the Army, however, he served his country well. He suffered fromPTSD, but had a loving wife and children that supported him to the end.Rory left behind his wife (who, ironically, died 8 months later), 2 sonsand a daughter.
Rory's children miss him very much.
I've been to The Wall several times. Each time, I become more and moreemotional. So many lives............................... Here in Northampton,MA, there is a war memorial, too. My brother's name is on that, as well. Inow have my brother's flag, as well as all the medals he received whileserving his country in Vietnam. I have them proudly displayed in my home.
Brother, I miss you and love you.
Scott A. Savino
Northampton, MA
[email protected]
Mike died April 16, 1997 from Agent Orange, lung cancer. He was aHonorable man, a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and son. Hewas proud to have served his country and very proud to have been a Marine.He also thought that the war was behind him, not knowing that he carried withhim an illness that would take his life at 47, His prime of life. Ourchildren were finally grown and we were going to be able to spend somewonderful times together , had made many plans that we both looked forwordto.
Then our lives were shattered. We had a love that only few people canclaim, we shared everything together, He was the most considerate andloving person many of our acquaintances have ever met. We were viewed as theperfect couple and we were. It has been a year and a half, and still I can'tgo on without loving him. Even though the VA has recoginized him as havingAgent Orange they say that his name will not be memorialized as with the WarHeros who have their names on the Vietnam Wall.
Mrs. Michael A. Sager (Dottie)
ps I will always be Mrs. Michael A. Sager Proudly
I am his 13 yr. old grandson and i am trying to find some info. onhim. he was my best freind and i miss him dearly. I have never metanyone like him. if you have any inf. please e-mail me at:
thank you
" grandpa i love you"
HE WAS A "LIFER" WHO BELIEVED IN HIS COUNTRY AND FELT WE SHOULD HAVE BEEN IN VIETNAM. HE IS LOVED AND MISSED TO THIS DAY. HE IS WITH GOD AND I'LL SEE HIM AGAIN . HE WAS MY COUSIN AND MY FRIEND.
Denny loved his country and the freedoms we enjoy in this great UnitedStates. He never spoke about Vietnam until shortly before he died. He toldme he thought he had survived Vietnam only to find that the war killed him.
He was so much a part of my life for 22 years that I can still feel him withme. Though he is gone, my love for him lives on and will till I leave thisearth. I will see him again in heaven.
Dorothy Trouten
He was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1981 for actions in Cambodia in May of 1968. Here is a link to his MOH Citation.
On Wednesday, Roy will lie in state at Porter-Loring Mortuary in SanAntonio from 8a - 5p, and there will be a Rosary for him at 7pm.
On Thursday at 1000am there will be a mass in San Antonio's San FernandoCathedral and then to Fort Sam Houston's National Cemetary for burialwith full military honors.
He was my friend, and my Bro. Now there's one less person that I can talk to who understands, and I miss him.
T. Hayes - Phu Bai - '65-'66
There isn't a day that goes by when I don't think of him, and in that sense he will live on.
Semper Fi.
Dennis Latham
Jack Meyer Siegel
Corpsman, USN
Vietnam Veteran
I remember the day when he called me totell me that he was finally accepted. He was soooooo happy. Although i toldhim that he still had time here with me and my brother David. It was difficultwhen I received the news. My brother called me at 4:30am and I could not makeit down to Florida until 11pm at night. It was a very long day for me. Thepast 3 months have been extremely difficult. There is not a moment that goesby that I dont think about my Dad. He was a great.
My dad was enlisted in the US Navy from 1/25/66 - 12/15/69.
He was at
Recruit Training in Great Lakes, IL from 1/26/66 - 4/8/66.
Hospital Corps
School in Great Lakes, IL from 1/26/66 - 4/8/66.
US Nav Hosp in St. Albans NY
(Ward Corpsman) from 8/11/66 - 3/30/67.
Fld Medical School, Camp Pen Calif
Marine Corps Bas from 4/19/67 - 5/23/67
VIETNAM 6/5/67 - 5/23/68
H&S co 1st Bn 4th Marines RVN from
6/5/67-12/25/67
"B" Co. 3rd Med Bn 3rd Mar Div RVN from 12/25/67 -
5/23/68
US Nav Hosp, St Albans NY from 6/14/68 - 12/15/98
Extensive operations in or around Phui Bia - Hue Phu Loc, Quang tri, Cobitontonvalley - Camp Evans Cumberland Rd Strong PT Base A*# - C2
Due to my Dads service, he suffered PTSD as well as two bouts of cancer. In1984, he had Hodgkins Disease, and 10 years later Father's day weekend he wasdiagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphomia. We thought me Dad wouldn't make it tohis 50th birthday. But he proved us wrong, My Dad was 51 when he passed. He died of a massive heart attack (I believe this was caused by the recent changein his medicine.)
For Veterans Day this year, my husband, Scott, and I drove the Washington. Itwas only three months sinced my Dad passed and I really needed to talk to him.It was wonderful. After visiting my Dad at Arlington for approx two hours, wewent to The Wall. It was very moving. I felt as if my Dad was there with me.After the services that were going on, Scott and I walked The Wall. Twice.Since my Dad's passing, this was the closest that I felt to him. It was great.My husband and I have vowed to head to The Wall for every Veteran's Day. It isdefinitely an experience that everyone should have at least once in thierlifetime. It was a great pleasure to see all the men and women who gave me thefreedom that I have today. To all of the Vets that didnt make it home and toall those that have, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart!
To all the Marines: SEMPER FI.
My I one day run into all of you at The
Wall.
I remain........Elissa-Maxine Siegel-Cohen.
Daughter of Jack Siegel (3/29/47 - 8/12/98)
One of the Greatest Dad's in
the World
US Navy Corpsman
P.S. Dad - I'll always remember "Positive Thinking". I love you Dad!
"A MAN IS NOT DEAD UNTIL HE IS FORGOTTON."
Beverly Haire
He will be remembered by his family and many friends at the Audie L. Murphy Veterans Hospital and the 149th M.P. Unit of the Army National Guard.
Interment will be on Monday, 23 November with full Military Honors in the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetary.
Richard James Kuebler
Sgt. USMC
Bravo 1/9, 3rd Mar.Div.
Vietnam
Veteran
Richard James Kuebler Born July 25, 1948- Passed away January 25, 1995 hewas the age of 47, passed away by cause of agent orange, he was pronouncebrain dead, at 6:05 on that day, due to Perypheial Neuropathy, a massivecoronary heart attack
His awards included the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry awarded in 1969-70when he saved his platoon of 15 men from death
a poem......
when i must leave you
when i must leave you for a little while, please do not grieve and shed wildtears, and hug your sorrow to you through the years.
But start out bravelywith a gallent smile, and for my sake and in my name live on and do allthings the same.
Feed not your loneliness on empty days, but fill each wakinghours in useful ways.
Reach out you hand in comfort and in cheer and i inturn, will comfort you and hold you near;
and never, never, be afraid to die,for i am waiting for you in the sky.
from someone very special given to me
I loved you much and lost you now, and you are free to roam the clouds likean eagle in flight,,,,,,,,,,,,
Brenda Kuebler
His memory lives on with the rest of his friends,SEMPER FIDELIS to all who gave their lives for our country
You served your country with honor and asked for so little in return.Although you made it home to us, your soul died there. All you ever wantedwas peace in your heart and mind. Well, it took nearly 30 years, but you arefinally home and at a long deserved rest.
I love you so very much and although our road was never easy, I wouldn't havehad it any other way. Take care and sleep well.
Love Your Son, Rob
Dear grandpa. You suffered for 41/2 years from your stroke, and yourtime came. We all hated to see you go but now you are resting in peace. Wemiss you very much and we all love you. Dylan misses you too, he always looksfor you, and when he finds your picture he kisses it. We all love you........
Love: Lori Nelson and your whole family
We Love you William. Rest easy. You have earned it.From his friends
He served at DaNang Air Field 18 months. His Date of birth was Jan 8 1945 and he died on April 25 1997.
We Love and miss him so very much.Wife Sandra, Daughters Vickie,Kim,Shawn Grandson born 1 month and 2 weeks after his death.
He was a wonderful husband and a wonderful father. He will always be with us. He is buried at Andersonville National Cementary In Montazuma Ga.
We Love you Roger and Dad and PePa.Sandra Guy
Bill I can only hope it is better where you are now.
Your friend and fellow Vietnam Vet,
Jim Vandergriff
2/503/173 Abn
He died of a massive heart attack, caused byhis heart problems, caused by Agent Orange. My father had two bouts of Cancerdue to this Agent Orange. In 1984 he had Hodgkins Lymphomia, and in 1994,Father's Day weekend, we was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphomia. My dad wasonly 51.
He served in the 3rd Batt. 3rd Marines.
Semper Fidelis.
His brother LTC (RET) Jackson D.Melton MSC USA respectfully pays tribute to you on this Veteran's Day 1998.
Submitted by Carole Melton LTC(RET)
ANC 24th EVAC Hospital Vietnam
71-72
He loved the Army and missed all his buddies who died or he could no longer see. Vietnam was his whole life.It was a sad time for all. and their Family's.
I thank everyonewho served . Rita Jo Garton-Nuytens
You are gone but not forgotten.
I LOVE YOU BIGBROTHER!!!!
Love,
your little Angelina
After graduation I got married and never saw Bill again, we served in Vietnamat the same time period. Bill was killed by a land mine on July 2, 1970.Although, we were never close I often think of him. He was a very quiet whoalways competed hard giving his all, as I am sure he did as a soldier.
On this Veterans Day I am filled with emotion as I think of him and all thefriends I served with in Vietnam. No one but those who served can reallyunderstand the deep kinship Veterans feel toward each other knowing thedifficult times and ordeals we shared during our brief but intense timetogether.
Those feelings for me will be with me for a lifetime although I probaby
willnever see the people I served with I will always hold them dear in
mythoughts.Sincerely,
Joe Smart
Vietnam 2/8/70 to 12/24/70
DIED FROM SERVICE CONNECTED WOUNDS
Chuck was very courageous and inspired me his physical therapist.Gary Corradini p.t.
Shaw died instead of me when he stepped on a very large land mine that I hadpassed just a few minutes earlier. It should have been me and I have livedwith the guilt for 37 years. I have always wondered if anyone but methought of him. Can you help
Steve Letson
520-532-7222
R.I.P. BobYour friend Jim Thompson RTO First Infantry Division 66-68
We miss you so much little brother.L Adams
I miss himterribly and wish he washere today. because he was always there for me.
Thank you for hearing me sent in by his cousin: [email protected]
Michael is remembered on The Wall on Panel 21E - Row 056
Sent in by Tricia Malone
All KIA October 8, 1963 Quang Nam Province, South Vietnam.*Body Not Recovered
My father Miles Presnell was in vietnam from68 to 69....he died feb.11 1996 in an automobile accident in Daytona BeachFL...he was in the army he is missed very much by family and friends.....thanks,
Lowell Edward Jones1929-June 1, 1998Served in the United States Air ForceServed in the Korean War.
God Bless you Uncle Jones...and thanks !
It is with a heavy heart that I tell you of the passing of another one of our brothers. Donald Ray Staglik, known as Don from San Antonio, TX. He served in the US Navy and in Vietnam from 1972-1973.
He was a Medic, I have been unable to find out his unit as of yet. There is a Memoral Service for Don tomorrow at 1 p.m. I am requesting pray for his soul and for his wife Patty, 2 sons and a daughter and his very large extended family.
I spent alot of time talking and listening to this man, he was a wonderful person and friend.
Thank you for posting this for me.
Kerry Duane French, Sr.
"Frenchie"
September 28, 1934 - January 1,
1983
HM1 1st Class (Navy)
Served in Vietnam for two tours
Dec. 1965 -
Feb. 1967
He was attached to the Helicopter Squadron 263, Marine Air Group 16
operatingout of Marble Mountain in South Vietnam.He had 412 Combat flying hours
to his credit
11 Air Medals
3 Purple Hearts
and numerous other medals
My father passed away on January 1, 1983, from Lymphoma which was caused by Agent Orange, he was 48 yrs old.
"Our Daddy....is surely missed!"We love you.....Kathy, Duane, and "Debie "Do"!
Again, thank you for doing this fine deed for our Men and Women who served inthe Military Forces and May God Bless You.
Cw3 Frederick{fritz}Neidhardt., DFC
1st Inf Div 1/4th Cav Dark
horse
.Passed away suddenly 27.7.97.
Two trips to Vietnam but the big C
took him from us,Prepared and Loyal
Survived by wife 3 children and 7 grandchildren.......
Born June 11, 1927, in Baltimore, he was the son of the late RichardWatson Bomberger Sr. and Catherine Downs Schnebly Bomberger.
He was a graduate of St. James School, Franklin and Marshall College,U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Industrial College of theArmed Forces and the Defense Language Institute.
He entered the U.S. Army in 1950 as a recruit and attained the rank ofmaster sergeant.
He attended Army Officers Candidate School at Fort Riley, Kan., andwas commissioned a second lieutenant, Medical Service Corps. Heattended Medical Field Service School, Brooke Army Medical Center,Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas; assigned Medical ReplacementTraining Center, Camp Pickett, Va.
He was promoted to first lieutenant, assigned to the Office of theSurgeon General, Department of the Army, Washington, D.C. Heattended an Airborne, Jumpmaster and Pathfinder course.
As a major his assignments included ROTC Instructor Group,Pennsylvania State University; assistant professor, teaching MilitaryLaw and Military Operations, instructor ROTC Summer Camps at FortGeorge G. Meade, Md., and Indiantown Gap Military Reservation, Pa. Hewas instructor at Military Assistance Institute, course on Middle East,Arlington, Va.; U.S. Training Mission Saudi Arabia, as an infantryadvisor Saudi Arabian Infantry.
As a lieutenant colonel, his assignments included U.S. Army SpecialWarfare Center, Fort Bragg, N.C.; Military Assistance Command,Executive Officer Studies and Observations Group, Saigon, Vietnam;deputy senior adviser Vietnamese Airborne Division in Saigon and TayNinh.
As a colonel, he was assigned to Headquarters 18th Airborne Corps,Fort Bragg, N.C. He retired in 1974.
He received the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart and 38 othermedals, badges and citations.
He was of the Episcopal faith.
He was a member of Franklin and Marshall Academy and College AlumniAssociation, St. James School Alumni Association, Pennsylvania StateUniversity Alumni Association, Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity, RetiredOfficers Association, 82nd Airborne Division Association, U.S. NavalInstitute, National Rifle Association, Korean War Veterans Association,Smithsonian Institution Associates, and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Hewas a life member of Disabled American Veterans and Morris Frock Post42 American Legion.
He is survived by his wife, Sarah S. Bomberger; two daughters, MaryCatherine Frances Rhodes of Lancaster, Pa., and Anne ElizabethHopkins of Lititz, Pa.; one son, Michael David Bomberger of Alexandria,Va.; and five grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by one son, Richard Watson Bomberger III.
Services were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. in the chapel of St. James School.The Rev. J. Stuart Dunnan and the Rev. Kenneth J. Dorsch officiated.Burial was in Boonsboro Cemetery, Boonsboro, with militarygraveside honors conducted by Morris Frock Post 42 American Legion.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. James School,St. James, Md. 21781.
Sent to us by: Dan Fisher, MSG(Ret) US Army
Please post this message to all who have posted to your page!!
Thank YouMichael Duggan
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
Died of a heart attack in Arizona on September 7, 1998
Submitted by: Larry L. Keeler, Ahwatukee, Arizona on 09/12/98
" My friend, you've boarded the Freedom Bird, at last "
Thedward Othel Clark passed away almost four years ago (fours years at Thanksgiving time...24 November, 1994). Thed was around 45 or 46 when hepasses away, so he was reeally young. Thed served two terms in the VietNam War. I don't know how old he was when he served but he couldn't havebeen over 18 or 19.
You see he went back for the second term so my dadwould not have to go and fight. I think that was an awesome thing he did. If you don't already have his name on the list of those who have passedaway and who served. Please put him on there. Thank you very much.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Clark
age 18
Larry was another casuality of the Vietnam War!Semper Fi Brother,You will live forever in our Hearts!
Jack Hartzel
My name is Ronald John Dickerson. I noted the sad passing of Captain LarryA. Dickerson. Although I did not have the honour of knowing him, but in thatwe share the same surname and I am interested in the Vietnam war, I waswandering if you could furnish me with his families address.
I realize this may be highly irregular and would understand if this cannot bedone. Please send the family my deepest sympathy and I can identify in theirsad loss in that my mom suddenly was called home on the 09/22/98.
I have an admiration and respect for all those who bravely served theircountry and payed the highest price.Kind regardsRonald John Dickerson.
Mark H. Gallant SR.
B Brty 2nd LAAMS �MAG18 �
1st MAR DIV � Chu Lai
�1968
Ken spent two years in Vietnam. He went over for 13 months, and thenvolunteered twice for six months each.
We were married 24 years and have three children together. We have 4grandchildren,
Ken died from Lymphoma related to exposure from Agent Orange.
Kens memory is still fresh. He loved life and was a peopleperson. He had a brilliant light side but also a pitch black dark side from his war experiences, and it left our family with problems that are hard to deal with.
Mrs. Kenneth Warren Howard
He was awarded numerous medals includingthe Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts.
He will be missed by manyVeterans and friends.
Ken Died From a heart
attack
Their bodies were not recovered
They are remembered by their team mates from 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division
May they rest in Peace
R.N.Evans
For anyone who knew Ken Masamitsu, 93rd Ecav, Long Binh - surgical tech from 1/70-12/70. He had a heart attack on 7/15/98 and died on 7/16/98 at the age of 49. His funeral is Tuesday 7/21/98 in San Jose, California at the Oak Hill Memorial Park on Curtner Ave.
Additional Information will be passed as it becomes available.
A former PLC classmate of mine, Jack Norton, former FBI agent and Chiefof Public Safety in Foster City, CA (San Francisco area) passed awaylast week after long and painful bout with cancer. Jack was badlywounded in Vietnam, was awarded the Navy Cross, a couple of BronzeStars and Purple Hearts. He took a leave of absence and volunteered togo to Vietnam as an infantry officer. One tough dude and a helluva guy. A real hero by accounts that I've read. He had a great law enforcementcareer, very active in Rotary. Reminds us all we are mortal.