THE WALL OF FACES

PFC Oral R. Terry was a Watercraft Operator serving with the 1097th Transportation Company (Medium Boat), 159th Transportation Battalion, 4th Transportation Command, Army Support Command Saigon, 1st Logistical Command, U.S. Army Republic of Vietnam. During 1968, the 1097th operated in Military Region III where it was assigned to the 9th Infantry Division. The company’s mission was handling logistical and ship-to-shore operations and inland-water security and port security tasks. On May 1, 1968, elements of the 1097th departed Dong Tam Base Camp in Dinh Tuong Province, RVN, on a waterborne journey to Fire Support Patrol Base Kennan. The maintenance boat LCM-8103 accompanied the move serving in the primary role as Damage Control Vessel. Terry was aboard 8103 as a seaman. As per company defensive standard operation procedure, 8103 set up radio watch during night hours. On the morning of May 3rd, Terry was to perform watch from 4:00 AM-5:00 AM. He was awakened by the man on current watch duty, then was to awaken the next man after completing his radio watch. At approximately 4:45 AM, two members of the crew heard a splash but did not investigate it. Later that morning, Terry’s relief man awoke on his own at 7:00 AM, but did not seek out Terry to find out why he failed to awaken him. Normal activity was carried out on 8103 until 2:15 PM when the crew realized Terry was not present. A search of the area was conducted with negative results. It was noted that Terry was a non-swimmer and was last seen wearing a steel helmet and flak jacket. He was listed as missing, and in the years following, was promoted to Staff Sergeant. In 1974, his status was changed to Dead, Body Not Recovered. Terry was 23 years old at the time he was lost. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

I wore his bracelet in my teen years until it broke. I found his name on the wall in DC. I will always pray for and his family. Thank you for your service PFC Oral Terry.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrances from those who wear/wore your MIA bracelet are touching and reflect their admiration and respect for you. It remains my fervent hope you will be returned home after the passage of so many years.

I bought the POW/MIA bracelet in high school and received a bracelet for Oral Terry. I watched the newspaper for his name to come home. I’m sorry he didn’t.
I still have the bracelet and just showed it to my granddaughter.
Thoughts and prayers to the family.

I wore the bracelet with your name, I prayed for your return. I pray for your family always. With sincere respect.