THE WALL OF FACES

Jimmy....how I wish you were still here with us. Dad died a mere 2 months after you were killed. I'm not sure Mom ever fully recovered from losing both of you so close together. I often visit this site to see if anyone has posted about you recently.....and to re-read what our daughter, Sarah, so eloquently put into words. She had a GREAT appreciation of History and especially the Vietnam War. I think it was all about the oft-repeated Churchill phrase that those who ignore History are bound to repeat it. She wanted her students to always remember that as citizens of these United States. But, I'm thinking/ hoping now that you have met her and you two have your heads together often sharing stories, History, and countless other discussions about whatever. She'll definitely keep you entertained!!!

Dear WO James McAleer, Thank you for your service as an Utility & Light Cargo Single Rotor Helicopter Pilot. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Time passes quickly, but our world needs help. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

I brought CWO McAleer home to his beautiful family in August of 1968. The McAleers were such kind and compassionate people. I learned so much about James through his gracious mom and dad and remarkable sister, Sheila. James was apparently an exceptional son and brother and it was no wonder that he grew into a man of courage and commitment. He and his family have always been in my memory and are a source of inspiration, not only on Memorial Day but throughout these past 50 years. I cannot find the words to express my appreciation, admiration and love, but one thing is certain, James and the McAleers are ....always in my heart.

I brought CWO McAleer home to his beautiful family in August of 1968. The McAleers were such kind and compassionate people. I learned so much about James through his gracious mom and dad and remarkable sister, Sheila. James was apparently an exceptional son and brother and it was no wonder that he grew into a man of courage and commitment. He and his family have always been in my memory and are a source of inspiration, not only on Memorial Day but throughout these past 50 years. I cannot find the words to express my appreciation, admiration and love, but one thing is certain, James and the McAleers are ....always in my heart.

We graduated together in 1966 with all of us obtaining an AS in Forestry from the North Dakota School of Forestry(NDSF), in Bottineau N.Dak.

Jim was a leader and actively involved with campus life. He served on the student council and was on the varsity wrestling team both years. We lived in the same dorm, played cards together on cold winter days, had double dates and went to the Saturday dances at Maxbass, and every morning for two years he worked the morning breakfast shift in the school cafeteria to help pay his way thru college. We have many memories of him ---We were very good friends.

Jim was strong in his faith and loved his family. Many times especially on Sunday afternoons Jim would make a phone call home from the dorm phone located in the hall to check in and see how his family was doing, you could hear him talking from your dorm room and could tell how much he really enjoyed talking to his parents, brothers and sisters. He missed and loved his family and wanted to share everything he was doing. Sometimes he would put us on the phone to say "Hi" or tell some story about what Jim was doing. After graduation it was not a surprise to learn Jim was serving his Country as a helicopter pilot and would put himself in danger to help his fellow soldier. One of us (Jim Getter) served in the Army in Viet Nam at the same time and had sent him a note to visit him. The note was returned after his death only to find out he was only a few miles apart.

Jim was a joy to be with and will always be missed by his many friends at NDSF. God Bless and Rest His Soul.

Classmates "1966"
Jim Getter(101st ABN DIV),Paul Trotta( US Marine), Mark Buehrig
Pictures taken at NDSF. Lake Metigoshe in background,