THE WALL OF FACES

Say not in grief he is no more, but live in thankfulness that he was.

SKSN Robert E. Schulze was a storekeeper serving with Military Sealift Command Office, Vietnam. The Military Sealift Command (MSC) was a component of the U.S. Navy. Similar to the Military Air Lift Command of the Air Force, the MSC operated ships, boats, tugs, and an assortment of water craft for ocean transportation. On July 27, 1971, SKSN Schulze was on liberty in Saigon, RVN, drinking with several companions in the back of an establishment called “Snow Bar.” They were confronted by several Vietnamese dressed in army attire. Later, one of the Americans was beaten up in front of the bar by the soldiers, his cries falling on deaf ears. As the beaten man crawled back to his comrades, the Vietnamese approached Schulze and fatally shot him. The incident was clouded by uncertainties, including the unknown assailants and the considerable alcohol consumed by the U.S. sailors. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “U. S. Naval Forces, Vietnam Monthly Historical Summary for July 1971” at dtic.mil]

Dear SN Robert Schulze, Thank you for your service as a Storekeeper Seaman. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

On the remembrance of your 70th birthday, your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Non sibi sed patriae.

It was a sad day when we lost Robert. I think of him often. YNC Paul C. Goff, United States Navy Retired, Military Sealift Command Office Vietnam, July 1970 - Aug 1971.