THE WALL OF FACES

Mike and I were in ROTC together. Went on a very memorable float trip down the White River one time. Miss him a lot and think of him often.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. I am heartened you returned home after the passage of so many years though I wish it had been under very different circumstances. May you rest in eternal peace.

On March 1, 1969, Virgil K. Meroney III lost his life fighting for our country. Although we did not know Captain Meroney personally, my husband wore his MIA bracelet until he was repatriated, identified, and interred. We were fortunate to attend his funeral and burial services in 2012 in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where he received full military honors and a motorcycle escort of patriots. Several attendees, including my husband, offered their MIA bracelets to the family – some were buried with Captain Meroney and some were placed in a museum. It was heartrending and touching to be in the presence of so many people who came to pay their respects. Today, March 1, 2023, 54 years later, we remember Captain Meroney and honor him who gave his “last full measure of devotion”. Rest in Peace Captain Virgil K. Meroney III.

I am the Curator of the POW/MIA Bracelet Display in the Vietnam Hangar of the Palm Springs Air Museum in Palm Springs, California where we now have over two thousand bracelets and would be honored to include your bracelet in our Display. If you are an immediate family member (spouse, fiancé, sibling, son, daughter or grandchild) I can order one for the Display in your name.
Dr. Dave Thompson
Palm Springs Air Museum
POW/MIA Bracelet Display Curator
Lt. Commander U.S. Navy 1964-1970
10-103 Lakeview Dr. Rancho Mirage, Ca 92270
760-328-0859 [email protected]

I was one of the pilots who flew Capt Meroney home. I myself was an Air Force Officer and a fighter pilot like Virgil. I was sad to hear of his loss but honored that I was part of his return. I will never forget his sacrifice. God Bless