THE WALL OF FACES

PFC Kenneth B. Sykes was an aircraft mechanic serving with the 256th Transportation Detachment, 18th Aviation Company, 14th Aviation Battalion, 17th Aviation Group (Combat), 1st Aviation Brigade, U.S. Army Republic of Vietnam. The 17th Aviation Group (Combat) oversaw U.S. Army aviation assets in Military Regions II providing direct combat support, troop transport, and cargo delivery. In June 1966, Sykes’ detachment was located at Long Binh Airfield in Bien Hoa Province, RVN. On June 1st, he was the victim of a homicide while entering the main gate at Long Binh. According to witnesses, Sykes was riding a bicycle at approximately 7:00 PM when an Army of the Republic of Vietnam sergeant in civilian clothes who served as a guard suddenly and without provocation began to shout at him. The off duty sergeant produced a pistol and shot Sykes, striking him in the head. He was flown to the U.S. Army’s 8th Field Hospital which maintained a neurosurgical unit; he expired shortly after being admitted. Sykes was 19 years old. The Army’s Criminal Investigative Division normally investigated serious incidents involving its military personnel; however, it is unclear if an investigation occurred or what outcome it produced, or whether a punishment was imposed on the shooter as the Army generally provided very little details regarding such incidents. [Sourced at coffeltdatabase.org]

War drew us from our homeland
In the sunlit springtime of our youth.
Those who did not come back alive remain
in perpetual springtime -- forever young --
And a part of them is with us always.

Dear PFC Kenneth Sykes, Thank you for your service as an Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice. The 56th anniversary just passed, sad. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Another summer is soon. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

Never forgotten.

HOOAH

May those who served never be forgotten. Rest in peace PFC. Sykes, I salute your brave soul. My heart goes out to you and your family.