THE WALL OF FACES

On April 8, 1968, at the battle of Khe Sanh, John was critically wounded with a traumatic brain injury from bomb shrapnel. A medic who was tending to him did a tracheotomy on him right there in the field; which saved John from drowning in his own blood. He was sent to the U.S. Sanctuary (which is a huge floating hospital to care for the wounded). He was not expected to live but he did and was sent to Fitzsimons Medical Hospital in Japan.

John lay unconscious for a month and upon waking from his coma he was told he was paralyzed on his left side. He was 21 years old. He remained that way for the next 36 years and yet he remained strong and positive; never bitter.

He fought back early on and learned how to walk, talk, and eat once more with intense physical therapy. He was retired from the Army with a 100 disability rating.

He took a position with Job Service as a Veteran's Rep. and was with them for 25 years until his illness forced him to retire.

John was one of the six Founders of VietNow, a life-long member of the VFW, and a member of the American Legion and Commander of the D.A.V. for thirteen years until his death.

John sang in two different choirs for many years and he was also taught how to play the piano once more with just his right hand. He was so good and and always filled our house with song and love.

John loved his fellow Veterans and was always helping one of them. He was in Co. B 2d Bn 7th Cav 1st Cav Div (AM).

On July 24th John had emergency brain surgery and doctors discovered he had a Glioblastoma Multiforme stage 4 brain tumor. This wonderful man was told he may have only nine months to live but John and his great strength made it to fifteen months and on October 10th at 9:30 PM he left us and joined the Angels that where waiting for him.

He loved God, family, friends, and his two special pets (who are with him now).

We miss your wonderful smile, your unique wisdom, and your soft, cuddly beard. I miss you everyday and you are always in my thoughts and heart.

Love, from your wife, Lynn

Hi Honey,
The days may come and go but I think of you each day.You are missed by your family and friends.
When March rolls around I remember how you waited for that reminder card from Tractor Town that it was time to bring in the lawn tractor and hoping the lawn has grown long enough so you could start mowing!!
I want to come out to the 'Wall' and touch and leave a kiss. I hope sometime this summer. Bye for now,Love from your wife,Lynn

John was dedicated in his active duty military service, and especially dedicated to all the veterans he served as a Veterans Employment Representative. In pain, and strugling to get around, John was always there to help a veteran or a fellow Vet Rep. Rest in Peace John.

John, Although we never met, I just want you to know you are not forgotten. You gave the ultimate sacrifice, your life for what you believed in. Sleep well my friend, and thank you for protecting our freedoms.