Today is July 4th 2024. A long time ago in a faraway land, Vietnam, Brave men and women were fighting a determined communist enemy in the NVA and Viet Cong. I was there and as determined as this fellow soldier to survive and return to our free county with all its freedoms. Although this young brave American was able to return to United States of America he was unfortunate to have met a premature death as the enemy attacked and overtook bunkers next to ours, Craig was brave enough to stand behind me with his M16 as I threw several hand grenades. Then an explosion injuring both of us, Craig being fatally injured. After partially recovering from my injury I found Craig had succumbed to his injury. It ripped me apart that such a fine, decent, religious young man could die like this. With any luck it could have been the other way around, but luck was not part of Craig’s life that night. I hope all that knew Craig could come to this site and read what others have written. I will live on visiting this site often to see if others are still around to make remembrance of my fellow American and friend Craig Hansen.

55 years ago, I was in Vietnam with you working out of a landing zone named Ike in Tay Ninh providence Vietnam. It was built in the middle of heavy bamboo with jungle all around it. I can still remember the details of your incident. Combat is never pleasant, sometimes seeing the enemy, but most of the time, not. I am so thankful and very sad about the sacrifice you gave, which has permitted all americans to celibrate their freedom's. Looking back, I think of many what ifs I could have but didn't do. For I am the lucky one, to have known you, a great American, a great fellow soldier, fighting to keep America safe. Thank you and all those that knew you for accepting your sacrifice as a hero forever.

Private First Class Craig Hayes Hansen, Served with the 3rd Platoon, Company D, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

We all know so well that we celebrate Memorial Day because of the ultimate sacrifice you gave Craig. I am the fortunate one to be able to celebrate your supreme sacrifice. I was with you that early morning when you met you destiny that would forever be in my mind. I wish I could have saved you that morning but it was not to be. Because of this site you will be remembered by everyone that ever knew you and by everyone like myself that speak of you when ever appropriate. It is surely so hard and painful to remember.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrances from Sgt Otto are touching and reflect his admiration and respect for you. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us….