THE WALL OF FACES

Captain Jackie Lee Dickens, Served with the 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron, 504th Tactical Air Support Group, 7th Air Force. Montani Semper Liberi !

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from your unnamed sister is touching. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us….

CPT Jackie Dickens, Instructor Pilot with 1LT Kennard Svanoe when O-2A 67-21319 was shot down. You are remembered.

As a very young child (12), remembering Uncle Jackie and Aunt Peg (Margret ) my mother Alice (Bryant) youngest sister. First time remembering Uncle Jack was after their return from Berlin, Germany where he served his 3 year tour in the Army. Upon his return utilizing his veteran education program, attending then Morris College in Charleston, WV., graduating with a degree in Mathematics. My father (Bill Hopkins Sr.) eldest brother Clyde (Junior) Hopkins served in WWII as a Top Torrent Gunner and Bombay Door Operator on B-17 named “The Saint” - 25 missions total over France and Germany in 1944 – 1945. Losing JR. shortly after his return home, dad was like a magnet to Uncle Jack.
Uncle Jack enlisted in the Air Force, attending flight school at Maxwell Gunter Air Force Base in Montgomery, AL. My father made certain that we as a family traveled to see Uncle Jack and Aunt Peg wherever he and mom had the opportunity. From Montgomery, Alabama to Dayton, OH. Wright- Patterson Air Force Base (Home to the B-52) which Uncle Jack was a Co-Pilot. I remember Aunt Peg having us hurry to the base on specific days and times to watch Uncle Jack’s B-52 land at the base. Uncle Jack chose Vietnam knowing that a promotion would appear shortly after histour of duty was over. Nine months tour compared to 4 years by remaining states side. Your passing came one day before my high school graduation. Your loss was so devastating to all of us who awaited your return which would have been three weeks after your passing (July 1969). I miss you Uncle Jack, not knowing you well, yet looking up to you more than you will ever know.
Bil Jr.

Chad Hayes your Grandfather was loved and respected by all who knew him. He was the first person outside my family that I can remember. We were always best friends from about 3-4 years old, always keeping in touch, no matter how many miles separated us. The picture I have attempted to post says what the little town of our births thinks of Jackie. Be very proud of him as I have always been.