ELMER WILLIAM DICKENS
ELMER W DICKENS
13E/32
REMEMBRANCES
Remembering An American Hero
As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for your sacrifice made on behalf of our wonderful country. The youth of today could gain much by learning of heroes such as yourself, men and women whose courage and heart can never be questioned.
May God allow you to read this, and may He allow me to someday shake your hand when I get to Heaven to personally thank you. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love you.
With respect, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir
Curt Carter
We Remember
Elmer is buried at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola,IN. BSM PH
Rest In Peace Sergeant Dickens
About a month ago, I had the impulse to visit 'The Wall' online. Sadly, I found Sergeant Dickens in the rolls. This is somewhat directed to his family. I was a young man of 18 when I showed up at Fort Dix, NJ. Coming off the bus from reception company to 'Kilo Company' the first words from your dad were 'TAKE OFF THAT HAT SOLDIER' as I had put my 'flying saucer' on my head somewhat askew, as I had no other place to put it. Trust me, Nadine, Christy, Elmer & Robert. your dad got me straighened out in a hurry! Your dad was the epitome of what a soldier should be. If there was a man coming out of 'Central Casting' for the role, it would have been your dad. I have a very good memory and remember with all the pride an 18 yo could muster. Your dad had asked what a soldier was to do during guard duty. After a number of wrong answers, I gave the correct one, that was to pass on any instructions to the person who relieves me. Your dad said, 'he's right, he's got some wrapping!' Before I leave, I always wondered about the doggie us guys chipped in for as a thank you going away give from all of us.
I arrived in Vietnam in December 1966. My service there was in relative safety because of men like your dad.
God Bless