THE WALL OF FACES

Dear LtJG Richard Buzzell,
Thank you for your service as an Unrestricted Line Officer (Pilot.) As we celebrate Labor Day, and enjoy our freedom, it is important for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

After posting yesterday's thoughts on our youth and mentioning "Ballfield" naming.
>> I want to be very clear. My recognition/ballfield nameing, was "no where close to Richard"s "sacrafice"--his life! in service to our Country.
My recognition, was recognized, by being able to enjoy my life and help others.
Richard and so many others, gave me that opportunity.

Richard (Dicky) Buzzell and I were friends in the very early years of our lives in Arlington.
My father William O Boagard was Dicky and my Cub Master Leader, as well as Little League Coach. We attended the Bracket School in Arlington. untill, our family moved away. We were about 11 years old when I moved.
Several years back, a Niece living in Arlington, mentioned to me that my nephew was playing sports on "Richard Buzzell Field". WOW, I did the research and learned of his Vietnam experience.
I too am a Vietnam Veternan.
Here is the real Ironey. Many, many years later having raised our family in Wrentham, MA.I too had a ballfirld named after me. Likely, because of my committment and envolvement in Wrentahm for many year's. JC's, Little League, Hockey, Recreation, Elected Official/Politics,etc.
I not only am very honored, but wished that I had had the chance to re-connect with Richard.
SoSad that his life was taken so young,

On December 19, 1970, a U.S. Navy helicopter UH-1B (tail number 63-12929) from Helicopter Attack (Light) Squadron Three, Detachment Three was operating in An Xugen Province (IV Corps) when the aircraft crashed southeast of Kien Long, hitting ground inverted after a main blade failure from overhaul errors made at Bell Helicopter. The crew of four suffered fatal injuries in the crash. They included pilots LTJG Richard H. Buzzell and LTJG Antonio O. Ortiz and crewmen AEC Johnny Ratliff and ADJ Robert E. Worth. [Taken from vhpa.org]

So long ago since we had that last drink the night before your last flight. Even after all these years, you are not forgotten, my friend.