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Your messages honoring our Vietnam Veterans
(Updated 03/27/2020 at 10:00 am – Displayed in the order in which they were received)
From: Knotts Family
Message: Millions of Americans served in the Vietnam War. They served honorably like generations of veterans before them, and many returned home to an ungrateful nation. But these amazing Vietnam veterans came home, supported each other, and contributed to our nation. They made the commitment that our country would never send another generation of Americans into harm’s way without the support and respect they deserve. Our country learned the lesson to support our military regardless of our feelings about a war. Future generations, like Desert Storm and Global War on Terror service members are thanked for their service. They stand on the shoulders of giants!
To our Vietnam veterans, thank you for your service and #WelcomeHome
From: Spec Joe Taylor
Message: My daughter and I went on a all Vietnam honor flight in august it was something my daughter will always remember
To: My husband Don Price who served in the Army almost 18 months in Vietnam 66 -68.
From: Kay Price
Message: I’m proud of you and your buddies who survived. I too served in the Air Force 65 to 86 retiring as an E-7. I’m grateful for the healing the VVM provides to thousands.
From: Robert Boyland
Message: I am a proud member of the VVA. Even more proud to have served my country in Vietnam. All my brothers, and sisters fought an un-popular war. But we had each others back. The finest group of men and women ever to put on a uniform. Peace to all.
To: Roy E. Haviland MIA, Jim Don Raub KIA
From: Mike Feinberg
Message: I am 68 years old. Both were boyhood friends of mine. I will never forget them. As long as we remember they live on!
From: John Housman
Message: Welcome home to all my Brothers and Sisters from all branches of service who served in Vietnam.
From: Kenneth Lonsinger
Message: As a fellow Veteran myself from back in that time, I salute you all. You fought a very unpopular war which started out supported by the people and then you had to fight for each other. Allons!
To: Peter Domzalski, Ralph Sirianni
From: From Amy and my children
Message: I want to thank all of the men and women for their sacrifice, especially my father Peter and his friend Ralph. I know many like my father were drafted and when they came home they weren’t treated with open arms. In fact they weren’t treated well at all. I want these veterans to know how they’re not forgotten and are loved. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. Never forgotten.
To: In honor of Joseph G Stoudt, 1959 – 1975
From: Mary Clinton
Message: Taken far too soon
I was 13 when I wrote to Joe. There was a story about him in our hometown newspaper, and I wrote to him, asking him, among other things, how he felt about the war.
While I do not still have the letters, I do remember that he was passionate in expressing how important it was for us to be there – that, if I could see the conditions in which the Vietnamese people were living, I would better understand. A kind, good young man, who took the time to answer the questions and concerns of a little girl.
I found his name on the Wall, with the help of a vet who was helping all in search of a name. I cannot tell you how overwhelming it is, to approach that Wall, and to see over 58,000 names of people, just like Joe, who died far too young for a cause they believed in.
I met his two sisters at a Memorial Day recognition ceremony in Pottstown, PA, about 12 years ago. It was humbling, and I wish I still had the letters he had written to me to give to them.
Thank you, Joe, and all the young men and women who have made that sacrifice . You are missed, and loved.
From: Patrick Gillis MACV Team 56 1968
Message: Thanks to all Vietnam veterans for your service, and welcome home!
To: My brother, William Louis Lunsford. All Veteran’s lost & returning home.
From: The Lunsford family
Message: We thank you, each & everyone for your service. All our love & respect!!!
To: Col. Glendon Aamon
From: Hunble words from an ole radio boy
Message: Welcome Home Sir: you will always be remembered as the best Dad three sons could ever hoped for, R.I.P
To: Spec5 Frederick Anthony Thacker, WO1 Gerald F Vilas, Spec5 Lynn Jones.
From: The Thacker Family
Message: You gave your lives so that we may live free, for that we will always be grateful. I love and miss you everyday Freddy, you were the best big brother ever.
To: All Brothers In Arms Who Have Proudly Served!
From: Retired USAF MSgt Rich Chylinski (Vietnam Veteran 1970)
Message: Thank You For Your Service!
To: Our Dad, Kurt L. Johnson
From: Johnson Family
Message: Honoring all of our Vietnam Veterans, not only at this time, but all year long. You all hold very special places in our hearts and we thank you all for your service and sacrifices.
To: The late Leroy James Westra who was killed in the Vietnam War and my uncle Ronald Marshall Purple Heart recipient from the Vietnam War.
From: Michael Marshall
Message: Thank you uncle Ron and RIP LEROY JAMES WESTRA!
To: All Vietnam Veterans
From: John Roady
Message: From one veteran to all veterans, thank you. Our nation is grateful to all who sacrificed and especially to those who sacrificed all. Never forget and God bless you!
To: Jeffery Underwood
From: Elizabeth
Message: I am so thankful you made it home. I’m proud of you and glad you make me feel so special! Welcome Home.
To: All my Brother from the 5/4 arty.
From: Patrick Kelly /4 Arty. 5th Infantry Vietnam 1969-1970
Message: To all my Brothers and Sisters Welcome Home. Thank you for all you have done, and all that you still do. Stay safe.
To: My beloved brother Charles J. Steinmetz
From: Linda McDonald
Message: My brother was a Vietnam Veteran and he passed away 3 years ago. He served our country without hesitation and he was awarded the Silver Star for his gallantry in action. He was in the Army with the 4th Infantry. He saw a lot of action when he was in Vietnam. I couldn’t wait till he returned safely to us,which he did. It seems fitting that today is the day to honor all Vietnam Veterans, today would have been Charlie’s 74th birthday.I would like to say Thank you to all Vietnam Veterans and please know that you will never ever be forgotten by me or my family. May you hold your heads up proudly for serving your country even though at the time there were people against you serving. May you all be Blessed with everything good the Lord has to offer you. Thank you again.
From: Lawrence A Sharpe Jr
Message: Thank you to all my brothers and sister who served in Viet Nam
To: Bernard Stenzel
From: Gloria Stenzel
Message: I miss you more and more each day. I love you! passed Nov 4, 2014 from Agent Orange Thank you to all Vietnam Veterans living and deceased! We Love You !!!
To: All the friends I lost during my time in nam
From: Rick and Judi Haydu
Message: i miss one and all of you and pray everyday that a war like this is never repeated
From: Deirdre Kamber Todd o/b/o The Kamber Law Group, P.C.
Message: We at the Kamber Law Group are honored to express our appreciation of our military service members and their loved ones. Without these brave men and women working the front gates and monitoring the landscapes, we would not enjoy the freedoms afforded to us as Americans. Today, we want to expressly recognize those who fought in the Vietnam Conflict. They are, and were, the brave warriors who, after fierce tours of duty, too often came home to abandonment, rejection, and unemployment. Their experiences initiated a wake-up call to our country: we must afford respect, recognition, and legal protection to our soldiers and their families, regardless of our political leanings. So, while we remain grateful to all in the armed forces, we salute those who not only served, but also shaped societal change through their hard work and sacrifices as Vietnam veterans.
To: Laurence Godin
From: Wendy Hamm
Message: My father, is still alive, but not really living. He hasn’t since 1968, from what I understand. He came back from Vietnam a changed person. Angry, quiet, drinking heavily, etc. Later in my life, as a graduate student in history, I took a class on the Vietnam era. I would try to use my father as a easy reference at times. I would either get an answer that was tight-lipped or yelled at me. My parents divorced as, he abused and attacked my mother, drunk. He was forced to go to AA and stay away from my mother. This conflict killed a part of him I, my younger sister and her children never got to know.
He never got his “Welcome Home” parade. No ” Thank You”s. Nothing. None of them did. We need to do something. Thank you.
To: Cpl. F. Arnold Evans, USMC 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, Bravo Company
From: Stephen & Laura
Message: We appreciate your service and we miss you daily. Love you, Pop.
To: My 4 friends who died in the war: Jim Rowe, Phil Erickson, Bill Morrell, Jimmy Warren
From: Michael Amato
Message: I still think of you guys every day. I really miss the four of you
To: Abn Inf Sgt Joseph A. Servantez C/1/503 “The 3rd Herd” RVN 10/68- 9/69 KIA 9/17/69
From: Ranger Sgt. Robert Foti
Message: Joe, Out of all the abn buds in the HH plt, C/1… We all remember you best…. When those of us left hook up, there aint one that doesn’t think of you the most, Wayne and the rest… That didn’t make, passed after and those of us still standing. At some point were all coming to Inkster… And a “Snap to Salute” for ya… Joe, may you, a great guy and paratrooper forever RIP… Your Bud… Ranger Robert
To: 1Lt William B Eoff Jr, US Army KIA Jul 1968, 1Lt David K. Feller, US Army KIA Apr 1968
From: Randy Everson
Message: Your Sacrifice Will Never Be Forgotten!
To: LB Wynne and Curtis Hurlock, names on the Wall and platoon-mates from our Marine infantry platoon, 1966-67.
From: John Merson
Message: I’ve worked in Vietnam every year since 1995, now with Children of Vietnam. We work with single mothers starting businesses and families with disabled children. Vietnam and the US are now allies at every level, govt to govt and people to people, getting lots done and enjoying the change.
To: 100 Men
From: Richard Grady
Message: During my 50th anniversary on arriving and serving in Vietnam, I have been honoring the 100 men killed in action (KIA) during fiercely fought battles while we served together in Military Assistance Command Vietnam (MACV) and 1st Aviation (AVN) Brigade (BDE). Their names are scattered among so many others from Panel E14 through W2. Their bravery in action and those battles we fought together remain etched in my memory. On the anniversary date of their loss I write a small memorial and post it on my Facebook wall. I do this so that this nation never forgets what we fought for and what the true price of freedom is. Today 29 of my men are still missing in action (MIA). I pray every day that they will, someday, return home to be reunited with their families. And every day I carry a list of those 100 men and the dates of their loss in the pocket of my shirt. As we reach Sunday, March 29 let us remember how the populous was divided at the time of our service and resolve that we must not let any divide exist in this nation ever again. Only by working together will we be considered a United States of America.
Rick Grady, U.S. Army, Councilman City of Plano, Texas
Founder Collin County Veterans Coalition
From: The Simpson Family
Message: Thank you for your service!! Blessings to you and your loved ones.
To: George Anderson, a friend who died eight days before he was to go home.
From: Kathleen Eaton and Family
Message: To all vets:
We are so sorry for the terrible treatment many of you received when you returned home. I an very glad that the people of this country have come to accept that you were only doing your duty and to honor your commitment to your country.
To: Dennis Barney brower
From: The Brower family
Message: You lived bravely and died a hero, we will always always remember you dad!
To: All Veterans and service members.
From: Andrew Moothart
Message: As a Vietnam Veteran who served in the US Army from 1967 to 1970 and two tours in Vietnam with the 34th Engineers B company, I can’t tell you how proud I am of all Veterans
From: DAV Jack Fisher Chapter 23 of Orange County, CA
Message: I am proud to be counted among the thousands of Veterans who served in Vietnam. My fellow veterans served with honor and distinction. May you always hold your head up high for a job well done!!
David Tilson, Commander, DAV Chapter 23
To: My husband, Fred Gruter
From: Robin Gruter
Message: My husband has reached his ultimate home. He is in Arlington National Cemetery. Whenever he encountered another Vietnam Vet he always greeted them with “Welcome Home”. I continue that now for all the men and women who served and never received a proper welcome. WELCOME HOME.
To: A shout out to SP4 Ross Angelo Trovato, who’s name appears on the Wall, Panel 03W Line 091. You’ll never be forgotten “Short Round”, at least as long as I’m around. Qui Nhon, South Vietnam, Quincy Compound, 27 June 1971.
From: LTC(Ret) Brian F. Sullivan
Message: Hi to all my brothers from the 127th Military Police Company, 93rd Military Police Battalion and 458th Transportation Company (Patrol Boat River), Qui Nhon, South Vietnam Oct 1970 to July 1971. Who will ever forget the ammunition dump explosions, riots and concussion grenade runs in the harbor around the Terminal Transportation Unit (TTU) off of Delong Pier.
To: Joseph Blais Russ, USMC KIA, Frederick Baldauf, USMC KIA
For Honorable Service in Vietnam: Dennis J. Stover, USMC, David E. Stover, US Army, Timothy Daly, US Army, Dennis D. Collins, US Army, Chuck Robertson, USMC
From: Barbara Stover and Family
Message: The Russ Family remembers & honors with love, Joseph Blais Russ, USMC, who made the ultimate sacrifice, 06 May 1966; and the many other men & women who gave their lives for us, including Frederick Baldauf, USMC.
We also honor ALL men & women who served in Vietnam, especially Dennis J. Stover, USMC; David E. Stover, US Army; Timothy Daly, US Army; and Dennis D. Collins, US Army.
To: Robert J. Wagner, Jr, Charles W. Cotterman
From: Anita Wagner
Message: My husband Robert J. Wagner, Jr. is a proud veteran of the United States Navy, 1972-1975. He served on the USS Constellation during the war and is honored to have served his nation. He is now a proud Blue Star Dad, having instilled in our daughter, SSgt Jennifer Wagner, USAF, the desire to serve her country, which she has done since 2002. My brother Charles Cotterman proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1971 – 1975. He was honored when his niece followed in his footsteps and joined the USAF.
To: James Malcolm Terry
From: Paige
Message: with loving thoughts and memories of my dad and in honor of all those who served in Vietnam … I am continually grateful for each one and the sacrifices made.
To: James E. Kinnard, David Streagle, William Cole
From: Colleen Streagle Cole
Message: Thank you to all above for your service and to Jim Kinnard who gave all.
From: Vincent Castellano
Message: Thank you to all the brave men and women, living and deceased, who served our country during the difficult days of the Vietnam War. We still remember your courage, dedication, and sacrifice. You are in our prayer daily.
God’s Blessings
From: Gerry Gargiulo
Message: Thank you for your dedicated service to our country during the Vietnam War. We are proud of you. Please take the time to pat yourself on the back and know you are the reason we continue to be the Land of the Free. God bless.
To: All those that lost his life fighting for our freedom
From: Daniel Toro
Message: God bless our brothers that returned from the Viet Nam war
To: William Luther Stevenson
From: Joey Stevenson
Message: Thank you for your service
To: David Mackey, Tom Welman
From: Linda S. (Leighton) Freeman
Message: I want to thank all those who fought this horrible war-both those who returned and those who sacrificed all. You have always been in my thoughts. A special thank you to Tom Welman and David Mackey.
To: Carl A. Marshall
From: The Marshall Family
Message: Thank you to my father and all veterans of the Vietnam War.
From: All Vietnam Veterans
Message: To our Vietnam Veterans,
As an OEF veteran I just wanted to express our families gratitude for you all.
From my family to each and every one of you, a heartfelt Thank You for what you have done to ensure Freedom continues to ring true in our Nation. If it wasn’t for you all there wouldn’t have been an “us.” We can never repay you for what you did but we can say Thank You and that we will never forget the sacrifices you all made for us and our country.
Sincerely,
Brian, Shannon, Dante, Journee, Skye, Stevee and Mario Seward.
Roy, UT
From: Richard Donaway
Message: Brothers, welcome home all.
From: My Family
Message: This is sent a little early, but I didn’t want to forget. We are deeply grateful for all your sacrifices. God bless all of you! Please take care of yourselves!
To: SGM Alfred B Ramirez
From: Emily, (wife) Sandra and Betty (daughters)
Message: Dad, we miss you and love you so much, we think about you every day. We would like to thank you for your Army service of 35 years to our Country. We thank you for all you did and for the ultimate sacrifice you made. God took you home to be with him on Oct 18, 2006. Though your death was not on the battlefields of Vietnam, you fought the battle with Agent Orange and sadly lost. The In Memory Program honors your courage and sacrifice every year as we do every day. Rest in Peace dad, your country remembers you and all your comrades on this special day as well.
To: Larry Pypniowski US Army
From: Ted Cooper
Message: Thanks for your sacrifice to the US Army and the United States of America. I am always thinking of you and the special times we spent together. I also think of all the Vet’s who’s names are on the Wall that sacrificed their life’s ‘ Rest in Peace your Partner Coop
“Airborne All The Way ”
From: NAM VET
Message: USAF, acft wpns 63 , 4 & 5 — been to the wall, several times, a very somber place, too many are on the wall , but for us that did come home, it’s hard to forget, our Brothers in Arms, we hope the 58,000 & more, can hear us, every Veterans day —
To: All those who are still with us, as well as all those who’s time has pasted
From: Thomas J. Meehan
Message: When we went to Viet Nam in the 60s and 70s, none of us thought about it being fifty plus years since World War I, but we did look at the guys who fought in WW I as being old. Eerie thing is, it is now Viet Nam that is the war that was over fifty year ago, yet I’m not ready to consider myself as old. Semper Fi.
Thomas J Meehan, Capt, USMC, 65-69.
From: Moses Shim
Message: Miss you guys.
From: Carol Luciano
Message: Many thanks for your service. God Bless
To: Donald Wayne Speigel
From: Ura LaDean (Speigel) Cuevas
Message: Honoring all the veterans that have served or currently serving our country. Special honor in memory of my brother Donald Speigel who proudly served his country. Love Sestra
To: My dad John Bennett 1946-2012 and my two uncles, Richard Hunter and George Ross
From: Bennett family
Message: First I would like to thank all the Vietnam veterans for their sacrifice for our country.. My father John Bennett who passed away from the effects of agent orange… And my uncles Richard hunter and George Ross thank you all love you god bless
To: Lance Corporal Michael Cuneen USMC on East Wall,panel 6, line 64
From: James Greene, Marine Vietnam Veteran
Message: My involvement with honoring Vietnam Veterans began on ground zero: the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Veterans’ Day in November 1982. I was there sporting a beard and dressed in my Marine Corps utilities (fatigues) and walking in my old beat-up jungle boots along with thousands of other Vietnam Vets casually attired in various military uniforms or parts of them representing all our Armed Services.
I also was on a personal mission to find the name of my Marine buddy who was killed by friendly fire on April 6, 1966 near Hill 55 south of the Da Nang Airstrip. Since that date The Wall and the War continue to dwell in the deep recesses of my mind occasionally surfacing when I read about the wounding or killing of our Servicemen and women in Iraq and Afganastan.
For much of my career as a Press Officer for Federal Agencies and a journalist in the private sector, The Wall also has been my constant neighbor. I live on Capitol Hill only 2 miles away from it and jog or bike down The Mall regularly always passing by The Wall and pausing too touch Mike’s name on the East Wall, panel six, line 64.
Ten percent of my generation (about 2.7 million men and women) served in the War. Over 58,000 were killed and 300,000 wounded or injured. While those figures pale in comparison to the 16 million who served in WW2 and the 400,000 killed and 672,000 wounded, the simple fact is that they all were considered heroes. And, of course, that wasn’t true for our War.
Now, volunteering at The Wall 2 or 3 times a week and as a Purple Heart recipient, I firmly believe that the listing of each name truly honor their individual sacrifice. It also aids in the healing process for their families and loved ones. Semper Fi.
To: Franz Perfect, Dominic Bisesie, Dick Boots, Paul Kratzavich, Roger Grinder, Jack Lantz, Chief Comer.
From: Honoring all Vietnam Veterans
Message: To those people noted above, I want to thank you for all that I learned from each one of you and your friendship.
God Bless You All.
To: Jack Johnson, John Quinn, John Booth, Martin Killelea, Edward Shepherd
From: LT Jay Snyder RVN 65-66 C Co 1/12 (abn) 1st Cavalry Division
Message: One day each year we wash the Wall in your memory and in honor of all my brothers and sisters listed with you on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. I salute you all!
To: Bev Beveridge
From: Kay Bauer
Message: A truly awesome surgical nurse without whom I would not have made it through our year or so in Vietnam. RIP, Bev and thank you for your wisdom and superior nursing knowledge which you kindly shared.
From: Anonymous
Message: Thank you for your service and keeping the people safe.
To: Captain James M. Brown USA
From: Brown family
Message: Remembering our loved one and honoring all of his fellow Vietnam Veterans still with us and those who have passed. It’s with a thankful heart that you all are finally recognized for your unselfish sacrifices from a grateful nation.
To: By.Sgt. Rivera Cruz.
P.F.C. James Menart
20 + others.
From: John J. Duka, USMC Ret.
Message: Thanks to all of my friends and comrades for selflessly giving of themselves that others may live. You are all my heroes.
To: Staff Sergeant Robert Francis Ferguson (Silver Star)
From: Robert Lewis Ferguson
Message: Staff Sergeant Ferguson was awarded the Silver Star posthumously for his actions on July 9, 1966. He was wounded while commanding an APC on a reconnaissance patrol. He continued to fight and was responsible for knocking out several Viet Cong gun positions before being mortally wounded. While wounded and under heavy fire he continued to give first aid to his comrades. A brave man who should be remembered.
To: Leroy Barnes, Donald Repaci
From: John W. Muskus
Message: Thank you both for your ultimate sacrifice. I will never forget you my friends! Welcome Home in Heaven.
To all the Patriots who served in Vietnam! Welcome Home!
From: William Staley
Message: Thank you for your service WELCOME HOME GOD BLESS HAND SALUTE !!!
From: Paul DeCosta
Message: As a Viet Nam Vet, 69-70 , I want to thank all those I served with , and all who served. We served in a very unpopular war. We were called , we went , and served with honor! I had my mental struggles late in life , but by the grace of my Lord and savior I came out the other side. To all who struggle today , you are in my prayers!
GOD Bless
To: Memory of my husband Lee, USMC 1968- 1978
From: Debbi
Message: God’s blessings to all who served and sacrificed so much for our freedom. You are not forgotten. God bless America
From: The Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs
Message: On behalf of the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs, a special welcome home and thank you for your service is extended to all veterans who served during the Vietnam War Era. We are thankful for your service, humbled by your sacrifice and deeply indebted to the families of those lost or still missing.
To: My Late Vietnam Veteran Husband JAMES MICHAEL HOPKINS and ALL Who Served Our Nation In Any Capacity In The Vietnam War.
From: Deanna Hopkins
Message: My Continual Thanks and Appreciation To My Late Vietnam Veteran Husband JAMES MICHAEL HOPKINS And ALL Who Served In The Vietnam War For Your Service To Our Country For The Rights and Freedoms Of Those You Didn’t Even Know and To Preserve Our Rights, Freedoms, and Way Of Life For ALL Of Us In Our Own Nation.
To: David Barbarino, Joseph Cruz Baza, Clifford Earnhardt, Clarence Everett, Larry Francis, Robert Lee, Wayne Murphy, Fred (Doc) Paddleford
From: 1/83rd Artillery Association
Message: We want to remember our fallen brothers from the 1/83rd Artillery (Vietnam 1966-1971) as well as all those memorialized on the Wall. May they all rest in Peace.
Lest We Forget
To: Johnnie Lee McDaniel, Panel 19E Line 120, My brother KIA 5-14-1967
From: Marilyn Bennett
Message: You are never forgotten. I will always love you and honor your sacrifice as well as all your comrades in arms. Looking forward to seeing you again one day.
To: Emmanuel (Manny) Davi, Major-USAF Ret, F-4 Pilot, over 100+ missions over NVN. Deceased 2003.
Gerald Louis, LtCol-USAF Ret, Search & Rescue Pilot, Numerous rescues/ saves and awarded several medals including 2 DFCs. Deceased 2017.
From: Paul F. Kramer, Col-USAF Ret.
Message: Never forget and continue to honor and recognized all those who made the ultimate sacrifice while assigned to units located in SEA and beyond and those who continue to “move on” as a result of war related exposure to chemical environments in the course of carrying out their assigned duties in support of the US war effort.
To: Kennemer Family/Children, William Paul Kennemer & his wife Kimberly, Arron & Audrey Birchfeild. Especially to Karen and Michael Birchfield.
From: Family, 173rd, 92nd, & 377 brigade
Message: James Dale Kennemer was born March 30, 1945 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dale completed his mission on this earthly plain, passing away November 1, 2019, He is preceded in life & remarried. Dale is survived by his wife Kathleen Marie.
Dale was a highly decorated Vietnam veteran with a bronze star & air medals. He was an CW2 Officer Aviator He was assigned in the 173rd, 92nd assault team, & 377 brigade. He flew UH1C gunship helicopters in the Vietnam War. He was shot out of the air several times while on combat missions. He was finally struck down my enemy fire on Mother’s Day 1971. He was pulled from the wreckage in the river where he was medical evacuate to Japan with a lengthy stay due to compound fractures. He eventually returned to the United States & was honorably discharged.
Upon his return to the US, he received pre-law work at Texas A&M and Wesleyan University passing his LSAT in 1977, & being excepted at SMU law school. However, PTSD shadow all of his life & he was unable to practice law, & became 100% disabled. Later Dale became a tax client preparer to make ends meet.
Dale continued his life of service; helping others, rescuing many, leading an army of family members through many difficult times. He was exposed to agent orange in his Tour of Vietnam. He battle fighting many skin cancers, larynx cancer till it finally metastasized all over. He fought a valiant battle in the the end. He went home to be with Our Lord flying many missions now with him. Forever a Sky Pilot!
To: Carl Dean Milller
From: Angela Nitzschke
Message: My Grandpa was MIA before I was even born and when my dad was very young. I will never forget the sacrifice he and the other veterans have made by witnessing it first hand. Their service has a impact on their immediate families as well as the nation. Without each individual sacrificing their personal gains for the benefit of all of us-we wouldn’t have the freedom we have today. POW/MIA/those who have served and those currently serving in all branches of military- I THANK YOU and APPRECIATE YOU! God bless you and may others feel honored to help you if you ever need it.
To: All Vietnam Veterans
From: Albert Baca
Message: Thank you, my brothers and sisters who served in this godforsaken war. Your sacrifice will never go unnoticed. I salute you and the brief poem below commemorates your sacrifice.
Memories come flooding back
Etched forever in tears and pain
Many names written on plaques
Or stricken in veteran bloodstain
Remembrance on the bomb rack
Into the void after the bullet rain
Anguished faces are my flashback
Loneliness is death and inhumane
Dark clouds form over my head
Attuned to the Day of the Dead
Yesterday filled with obsidian lead
From: The Watkins Family
Message: Thank you to the women and men who served in the Vietnam War and taught us how to face adversity with dignity and diplomacy. You have given us courage and strength during this difficult time.
To: Gy.Sgt. Rivera Cruz
From: John J. Duka, Sr.
Message: Thank you for training me, knowing me, and for being leader and a friend.
To: I want very much to honour the memory of my friend Cary Vergil Cronin.
From: Unn Stenersen, a friend
Message: Cary Vergil died by fatal overdose related to PSTD from his service in the Vietnam war as a medic in the summer of 1968, when he was 20 years old. Cary Vergil Cronin will always remain in my memory. God Bless you! We shall meet again on that sunny shore!
To: My dad, Sgt Dwight M “Bull” Durham (27W/48) and his Point Man Sgt Loel F “Larry” Largent (27W/52); all of the guys who served in the H Co LRRP/Rangers, 75th Inf, 1st Cav Airmoble; my local VVA Redwood Empire Chapter 223 vets specifically but I would like to honor all veterans who served in the war in Viet Nam.
From: J Stephania Ryan
Message: My message is simple I want to thank you for your gallant and maybe not so voluntary service and to genuinely welcome you all home.
To: In memory of my brother, LCPL Richard B. Murphy, KIA 6/15/68
From: Maureen
Message: Welcome home to all Vietnam veterans and those who supported them.
I honor you for your dedication to duty and your many sacrifices, then and now.
From: Aaron Harris
Message: To all of my fellow veterans who served in Vietnam…Welcome Home and may God Bless You and keep you safe!
To: John DiDomizio
From: David Degnan
Message: Thank you for your service Uncle John and RIP. Your thought of often and missed everyday. I joined the military in your honor and recently retired from the Navy. God bless you Uncle John. Your nephew David
To: I want to honor my husband Rocky Wayne Chaney and all of the Vietnam veterans
From: Denise Chaney
Message: Welcome home Rocky Wayne Chaney and to all of the Vietnam veterans Rest in Peace
Thank you for your service
From: Mike Lischko
Message: Best bumper sticker I have on my Jeep–“I was a Vietnam Veteran before it was popular”
To: My cousin PFC. Richard L. Porter 1949-1969
My husband Lance Corporal John A. Pinkerton
From: Leslie Pinkerton
Message: My cousin Rick gave his life in Vietnam in 1969. He was only 20 yrs. old. I think of him and miss him very often. I thank you Rick for the sacrifice you made for me and everyone in our country. My husband, John is a Vietnam Vet. He currently is in a nursing home, still fighting. He has many medical issues caused from the exposure to Agent Orange. He is still feeling the effects of that war. I can’t thank our Veterans enough. I see the sacrifices they made every single day. You are all truly the definition of the word, HERO. God Bless all of you.
To: Billy Carnell, Army, Vietnam , 1971-72
From: Rebecca Carnell
Message: Thank you Vietnam veterans for your service and sacrifice. Our family will always honor you and all veterans. Be strong. You have many always supporting you and lifting you in prayer.
To: All who served in Vietnam and especially the 58,276 heroes.
From: William (Bill) W. Shugarts III, Vietnam (1969-1970), 23rd Infantry Division-Americal
Message: We honor you today, March 29, 2020 and all the years ahead.
Welcome home brothers & sisters!
To: PFC Stephen R. Lopeman; USMC; KIA; May 1969; PO3 Timothy H. Paddock; USN; KIA, Sep 66; LCPL John E. Paddock; USMC; KIA; Sep 66; PO3 (MOH) Marvin G. Shields, USN; KIA; Jun 65; CPL William T. Smith; USMC; KIA, Apr 70
From: John Stover
Message: Welcome Home! A brief but neglected statement many of our brothers and sisters never had a chance to hear or experience.
We the forgotten members of our generation; stood tall and answered the call for duty; honor and country! May you live your remaining years in peace; with forgiving hearts; and the knowledge that you are no alone in your continuing struggles with the long ago past. GOD bless each and everyone of you; and May those we have lost; forever Rest In Peace!
To: Navy Corpsman Gregory Gene Pritchett
From: Dennis Pritchett
Message: As a Vietnam combat infantryman, I am honoring my brother, Gregory Gene Pritchett, who made the ultimate sacrifice on May 3, 1968. Greg: You will always be loved and remembered.
To: My brother, Ssgt.Roger G. Holler, who is on the wall.
From: Judy Weber and family
Message: Best big brother in the world and gave his life to save another. Rest is peace, big bro!
To: John Wells and All Brothers & Sisters in Arms
From: R Brown 4/77 ARA 101st Div 69-70
Message: “Welcome Home!” It took almost 50 years for me to hear those words and realize that every VN Vet should hold his head high for a job well done!
For those who made it home but are still battling the demons or effects of Agent Orange…stay strong!
Never forget those who gave all! Thank you for your service!
To: Paul R,Evans
From: A fellow Seneca Voc. H.S. graduate
Message: The Wall That Heals lives up to its name. It reflects the words to describe “all gave some, some gave all.”
To: Jacob Clyde Cooter
From: Brenda Cooter
Message: To honor my husband, my soulmate, my running partner, my best friend Jacob Clyde Cooter
To: I would like to honor all Vietnam vets.
From: Paul Doyle
Message: God bless all Vietnam Vets, we were the best they ever had. AMEN.
To: Stanley John Ross
From: Annie Ross
Message: Vietnam Veteran..died from complications of Agent Orange… Sept..10, 2013
To: My husband Joe Cimini
From: Widow of a Vietnam vet
Message: Joe was an Army Combat Engineer who served in Vietnam in 1969. He was proud of his service, even though it greatly damaged him physically and emotionally.
Over my bed, I have a photo of him crouched down behind a group of Vietnamese children. His unit had just finished building a school for them. He felt very close to many people here knew there, both other service members and people of Vietnam.
I’m very proud of him. Just wish he could have lived longer.
From: Robert McDonald
Message: I would like to thank the VVMF for remembering the deceased. For dignifying and humanizing Vietnam veterans and service.
To: Larry J. Kingsbury, Gary Forrest, John Flately
From: Denise Kingsbury
Message: To all young men, the best of their generation that served when the nation called, thank you. The the 58,000+ that paid the ultimate sacrifice and the thousands that have died as a result of their service we honor your memory.
To: John Edward Bohnsack
From: Lisa Bohnsack Koenigsberg
Message: You were the sacrifice and price of war. I miss you, Daddy
To: Richard Eldon Dugan (07 Oct 1950 – 11 Jan 2018), AMH1 U.S. Navy 1969 – 1991
From: David Dugan
Message: Rest in peace brother Rick. Hope you got your welcome home in heaven.
From: Rhonda Lawford
Message: It is so important to honor those who served and sacrificed and to go online would such a great benefit so a lot more people could go and pay tribute especially for those who cant travel or are imobile please make it available online thank you and thank your vets and service members.
To: Richard Toops
Joe Tarlovsky-Happy Birthday 3-24-20
All men of the 240thAHC-Greyhounds and Mad Dogs
From: Beverly
Message: Can’t thank all of you enouth for being there.
To: To all of the 58,276 names listed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
From: Bill Walters Quang Tri Province 70-71
Message: Thank you for your service and ultimate sacrifice. May you rest in peace.
To: Brian Honsinger
From: Hannah Johnson
Message: A Day at the Wall
(By Hannah Johnson)
On November 9, 2019, I woke up at 4 a.m. to a frosty 29 degrees. It was hunting season, and I had gotten up early for several previous mornings, hoping to get a deer. But this particular day, I had decided to trade optics. I abandoned my Leupold scope in preference for a Nikon camera, and headed to Stephenville, Texas, where the “Wall that Heals” was on display. I spent the next 12 hours at the mobile Vietnam Memorial–a traveling ¾ scale granite wall replica of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., which bears the engraved names of 58, 267 soldiers who are known to have died in the Vietnam War.
The Wall itself is a spectacular, thoughtfully designed monument to those who gave their lives. There are no words to describe how moving the Wall is. The number of names alone is astounding, and there is hardly any verbal response possible, but rather silent sobriety and internal meditation. Every name engraved in the granite represents a story, a life, a decision, a relationship, a final action, and grieving survivors. It is utterly overwhelming to start at one end of the ground-level granite sections and continue walking the wall until it rises so far overhead that you cannot make out the names at the top.
The purpose for me being there so early and staying all day (a 12-hour shift) was to see how the wall was viewed through the eyes of the visitors throughout the day, from sunrise, to early morning hours, through high noon, into the late afternoon sun, the dusky evening hours, and finally, sundown.
At sunrise the wall began to warm, and steam rose up from the panels. Frost melted and trickled down through the thousands of names–like tears through history. At certain times of the day, depending on the sky, the wall took on slate gray, golden, and silver hues. Sometimes the shadows of visitors standing several yards from the wall appeared like ghosts telling stories from the past. At other times, the sunlight caused a person’s reflection to be so clear that the names seemed to fade into the background, and all a visitor could see was his or her own reflection in the wall. Each of these effects were considered in the introspective design of the Memorial Wall. Experiencing the beautiful effects and witnessing the impact they had on other visitors is something I will never forget.
In addition to the Wall a small, well-done museum displayed military artifacts, letters written by soldiers, photographs, statistics, etc. I had the pleasure of spending an entire day reading, not only the documented stories preserved in the museum, but the unwritten stories preserved in the lives of those who came to visit the wall. I read volumes of unspeakable memories, emotions, loss, love, and pride in the facial expressions of veterans and civilians who came to locate a specific name engraved on the wall, leave a shrine to a loved one, show their grandchildren the name of a friend who died…to pay respect to someone they care for, fought with, loved, and remember.
Throughout the day, I heard and witnessed the re-living of deeply personal experiences, the eager searching for a name on the wall, the collapsing shoulders and trembling hands when that name was found and reverently touched, pointed to, or caressed. I saw veterans of several generations giving support and respect to each other as they shared experiences and struggles. I saw children of all ages listening with rapt attention while a Veteran talked about a fallen friend, or pointed on the wall-sized map to where he had served and fought.
I met a number of local Veterans who were volunteering their time–taking shifts that provided 24-hour security for the Memorial while on display, and lending an understanding ear to those who wanted to talk, or a quiet, kindred presence for those who preferred a silent reverie. Some of the volunteer veterans were supported by spouses, and other members of the community who offered to bring meals, coffee, etc. The presence of these volunteers was, in my opinion, a critical part of the hallowed environment that ministered to the various needs, fears, and expectations of visitors. I watched active military men and women in conversation with aged veterans, and middle-aged veterans offering to dog-sit for visitors so they could enjoy the Wall with respect while their pet was cared for away from the Memorial grounds.
I saw babies and toddlers playing without a care in the world–which seemed to punctuate the sacrifice of so many soldiers who gave their own lives in the hopes of preserving a way of life that enables children to enjoy a day in the park without fear.
For several hours, local Boy Scouts volunteered to greet people at the Wall, hand out literary resources, and help visitors locate the names of loved ones on the wall. The respect and interaction between several generations was remarkable and touching. Young Boy Scouts were thrilled to meet real, live heroes; and elderly veterans took time to answer questions and inspire and encourage youngsters to serve their communities and their county with honor.
Some of the visitors to the Wall had obvious physical afflictions, and some were suffering from less visible challenges. Given the social dysfunction that accompanied the Vietnam Era, I wondered if the Memorial lived up to its moniker, “The Wall that Heals.” After observing, I would say that the Wall has a healing effect for those who want to be “healed.” In the faces of many of its visitors I saw closure, pride, reverence, dignity, relief, love, and conflict–all very personal matters recalled and handled with care.
I saw people who had lost a relative looking through index books to see what section of the Wall their loved one’s name was listed on. Once the index directed them to a particular panel, some nearly ran to find it and run their fingers over the engraved name. Some cried, some dropped to their knees, some pointed with enthusiasm, some bowed their heads in silence. Most seemed to leave the Wall more reflective, yet less burdened, than when they arrived–much in part due to the enormous personal support and ready resources available for the veterans and civilians.
Some people planted flags or laid personal effects, mementos and photographs at the panel that bore the name of their loved one. Some individuals, and some whole families, knelt or sat for a long time–oblivious to the activity going on around them as they remembered and discussed a friend or family member. I noticed that the majority of visitors, even those who arrived in some apparent ignorance of the significance of the Vietnam “conflict”, once they walked the Wall and read through the material in the museum, were moved to silence and sobriety. I saw people with tear streaked faces smiling after locating a name and spending time with the memories of their loved one. I saw some arrive with angst and leave with peace.
From before sunrise to well after sunset, I watched an eclectic collection of characters come and go. Most were respectful, yet a few were careless and irreverent. Each of the visitors, knowingly or not, represented a measure of success that was paid for by the men and women memorialized on the Wall. Like the prophets of the Old Testament–never living to see the Promise they announced, and never honored until long after their deaths–the Vietnam Veterans gave their lives without ever seeing the fruit of their sacrifice and without the thanks of a Nation that enjoys the luxuries of a safe night’s sleep, the absence of bombardment, and the freedom to live unmolested by foreign or domestic tyranny.
The photographs of the Wall that Heals, and of the interactions of those who visited or volunteered at the Memorial, are an attempt to honor the very personal sacrifices of the Veterans who died in combat, the Veterans who survived for a time, and the Veterans who are still living and serving their families, communities, or nation. Thank you, and welcome home.
To: Randy Granath, the President of the Veterans Network Committee of Northern Illinois, (VNC) and all the other Vietnam War Veterans who serve on the Board of Directors and are Members of the Veterans Network Committee (VNC) of Northern Illinois.
From: The Sextons
Message: We would like to thank Randy, the VNC Board Members and and all the Vietnam War Veterans who are members of the VNC. They work tirelessly all year to provide assistance to Veterans and make sure the annual VNC Honor Flight gets off the ground.
To: Stanley Daigle and Ron A. Allison
From: Debi Robbins Guthals & Kathryn Robbins
Message: We would like to thank you for your service for all the American people. We thank you for your sacrifices made to make this country safe and give us our freedoms. God bless. WELCOME HOME.
To: Mr. Dale, a man we know from our walks at the park.
From: Mary Erikson
Message: Dear brave soldiers,
Thank you for your service to our country. We are free, because of all of you. I am sorry for how you were treated by fellow Americans when you returned home. Although I wasn’t born until 1972, my dad, a WW2 vet, taught us always to mention the treatment you received. I pray, that today, you’ll feel the honor, love, and respect that you deserved years ago. Thank you, and may God bless you.
To: All Vietnam Veterans
From: Tom Cusick, Vietnam Veterans Inc. Pittsburgh.
Message: I served with M-4-12 at camp J J CARROLL 1966/67.
From the V V I in Pittsburgh – WELCOME HOME!!!
To: Ssgt. Richard James Osborn USMC.
From: The Osborn Family
Message: We would like to honor Richard J. Osborn USMC. Loving husband father & grandfather. He served 2 tours of duty in Vietnam. Passed away May 10, 2018. We miss him everyday.
To: All Vietnam Veterans
From: All Vietnam Veterans
Message: It seens like yesterday and 1968 and TET with death all around us. May God bless all who served in the Vietnam War and may God bless all who are currently serving our great nation. And always remember we honor your and your family’s service.
To: Douglas Siegel
From: Your youngest daughter Jessy
Message: Thank you dad for everything you do and the sacrifices you’ve made. I love you.
From: Wakefield History Honor Society
Message: Thank you so much for your service, courage, and sacrifice!
To: All Vietnam Veterans
From: John Dibble
Message: EVERYBODY WAS WOUNDED by John Dibble
I came back from Vietnam in the summer of 1971. It was several years before anyone asked, or even wanted to know, if I’d been in the war. It was also about that long before I volunteered the information. It was just a matter of practical necessity: you could never be sure how the person you were talking to felt about Vietnam and, by the time you found out, it was usually too late. Most veterans, and I was one of them, didn’t say anything at all.
It was sometime after the fall of Saigon in 1975 that Vietnam, slowly but surely, began to be an acceptable topic of conversation. People began to ask, with what seemed genuine interest, if I had been in the war. But during these conversations, I also began to notice a very peculiar thing. About every third or fourth person would then ask: “Were you wounded?”
I was not, in fact, wounded in Vietnam. Simply a matter of luck, as any veteran will tell you. But I thought it odd that people would, out of nowhere, ask me the question. Just as odd, when I told them I had not been wounded, it usually ended the conversation as far as they were concerned.
When this conversational oddity first began, I didn’t know how to react. At first, I was a bit hurt by the question. Maybe, by not being wounded, I was viewed as not really having been in the war. But the more times I was asked the question and the more I thought about it, the clearer it became that the question really had nothing to do with me.
Keep in mind that these odd conversations took place in settings about as far removed from war as you can imagine — settings like a Midwest university campus or a neighborhood social gathering. There I was, a twentysomething young man who looked like a lot of other twenty-something young men. People, I decided, had a difficult time putting me together with a war that had appeared on their televisions every night for years and had, quite literally, torn this country apart. I decided that the question about whether I had been wounded was spawned by the fact that, for many people, the war so defied understanding that they needed some physical manifestation — a wound — to help them comprehend it.
I think that the people who asked this question never understood that Vietnam wounded more than just the combatants. Of course, by saying that I don’t mean to lessen the tragedy of those who actually suffered physical and mental wounds in Vietnam. Those are the wounds that can’t be hidden and don’t have to be explained. But wars in general, and Vietnam in particular, take their toll in other, less obvious ways.
When I graduated from college in 1968 the draft was in full swing. By graduation day, almost every man in my class had received a notice to report for a pre-induction physical. Of course, we never actually had a graduation day, because the campus was closed down by anti-war demonstrators. A few months later, I reported for duty in the Navy, but some of my classmates never reported to the military at all. Instead, their opposition to the war took them to Canada, or Sweden, or prison. Things were like that in 1968.
While I was in the Navy, campus demonstrations became more frequent and political opposition to Vietnam more vocal. One day in 1970, some ill-guided Ohio National Guard troops opened fire on unarmed demonstrators at Kent State University. People all across America were forced to come to grips with the effect the war was having on their children and their nation. By the time I came back from Vietnam in 1971, serious, debilitating wounds had been inflicted on the whole country.
In 1982, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was dedicated on the Mall in Washington. Like everything else to do with the war, it was controversial. Critics of the Wall derisively called it a “black gash of shame and sorrow”. They were partly right, but not for the reasons they thought. The Wall was, in fact, a wound — the wound that the whole country had suffered. It was the physical manifestation that so many people — people like those that had been asking me the question — had been looking for.
For those of us who were in Vietnam, The Wall was something different. It held the names of friends and comrades who died there. But at that level, a memorial can only exist for those who have participated in the conflict. A truly great memorial — and The Wall is certainly that — must exist at many levels and so minister to those who were wounded in other ways.
People still ask me the question from time to time, although not as often as they did before the Wall. When they used to ask me, I would reply, “No, I was lucky. I wasn’t wounded.” Now I say to those who ask the question: “Everybody was wounded in Vietnam …. everybody.”
To: William James Quandt Spec 4 US Army
From: Janet Quandt (wife)
Message: To my Soldier Boy I love and miss you.
I know that you went to Heaven, because you spent your time in hell. Quinhon. 1966-1967. You fought the war and battled all your days, May 28,2019 a day I will never forget. Agent Orange and all of the effects. Rest in peace my sweet husband. God Bless you always.
To: CW4 Richard W. Cline, US Army (Retired)
From: CW5 John Dougherty, US Army (Retired)
Message: My Friend and Mentor of 50 years since we served together in Vietnam – HHC, 14th TC Bn. Rick (aka Pappy) took his final flight on 25 February 2020. His first Vietnam tour was with the 1st Cavalry Division. Respected and loved by all who new him. RIP Brother. Welcome Home!
To: 58,318 souls in Warrior Heaven. Rest in Peace Brothers and Sisters.
From: Dan and Michele Hoffman
Message: On this day, let us all remember the price paid for our freedom. Welcome home to all who served during Vietnam, whether in combat or in support of those in combat. We all need to hear welcome home! God Bless America, Gob Bless all who serve.
From: The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin
Message: We are eternally grateful for your service and sacrifice. Welcome home!
To: Allen F Keating
From: Anne Bunstein
Message: Our story together was short because of your bravery, heroism and love of our Country. Losing you had such an impact on so many people as you were loved by everyone you touched. So especially today we honor all of you who gave the ultimate sacrifice and those who served and came home.
I am grateful for the time we had and know we had an “Endless Love”
To: Major Richard E. Smith, Jr., former POW …….and……. Lt. Col. Floyd W. Olsen, MIA
From: Kristi
Message: As a teenager I wore a POW bracelet with the name of Major Richard E. Smith, Jr. Thankfully, he returned home and with the help of the POW network I was able to connect with him, say thank you, and send him my bracelet. Today, I wear the bracelet of Lt. Col. Floyd W. Olsen, listed as MIA. Thank you to all Vietnam Veterans and please know, you are appreciated and you are not forgotten.
To: Sgt Fabian M. Contreras
From: A Veteran’s Wife
Message: It has been my honor to be married to Fabian for over 50 years. Through it all, Fabian has shown what courage looks like. Whether job loss, illness or other problems hit us, he stood tall and carried us through. Now, with his health fading, I am trying to be HIS hero. I will love him and take care of him til his last dying breath.
To: Thomas Roach died 1969 Vietnam, Frank Dunford died 1967 Vietnam
From: Patrick Hunt
Message: I was proud to serve on the USS Constellation CVA-64 between October 1971 and May 1972 as a Yeoman 3rd class with VAW 116 during the WestPac cruise off Vietnam under CDR J.G. Mcintyre. I salute all who served then.
To: Arnold A. Ades
From: Arnold’s sisters
Message: We lost our brother in 1967. Since then we have met many men and women who had served with him. We thank you for your service.
To: Paul Graff, David Schaeffer
From: Doc Mackie
Message: Even though I sent you home alone my heart and love went with you and remain to this day. Rest in Peace
To: All of them
From: Former11B
Message: From an early age I read stories and watched programs which taught me about the sacrifice the men and women of America have made for this land of the free, home of the brave. I love you all and will spend my working life trying to get you all the benefits you are owed. Thank you all for your service and sacrifice.
To: Arne Espedal (deceased) Member of the Phu Loi Patrol
From: Jim Benner
Message: Welcome Home Brothers! Stay safe members of VVA Chapter 1105! Welcome to Base Camp Phu Loi
To: 1/5 mech. 25th Inf. Div. past and present.
From: Terry Rourntree Sr. Vietnam 68-69 CW3R
Message: To my fellow vets especially my two Brothers who served with the corp before me and to all those that gave their all for our freedom. Also all the families that lost love ones and a great big Hug to Gold Star Families.
To: Timothy White KIA 1968, 44 HAL3 PERSONNEL 1966/1972
From: William M. Herrin
Message: Thank you BRAVE Warriors for fighting in Vietnam when it was not a declared war. SALUTE USA AND GOD BLESS AMERICA.
VN VET 1766/1968
To: Truzell DeRamus
From: Denise Carr-DeRamus
Message: I would like to honor my husband Truzell DeRamus who got the Bronze Star in the First Tet Offensive. Truzell passed away from Agent Orange complications in 2004. I want him to know how much he is missed and thank him for all his sacrifices he made for his family and for his country.
To: Richard Kimball, Eddie Rimbert, all veterans that served in the Viet Nam War.
From: Denise Carr-DeRamus
Message: Welcome home. All of your sacrifices have been well appreciated, even though, often, late. Best wishes to all those that still survive.
From: Moses Shim
Message: Brothers, love and miss you guys.
To: Mike Smith
From: Eric Anderson
Message: They still wait…
To: ALL Vietnam Veterans
From: Alisa Inman
Message: Dear Vietnam Veterans,
Thank you ALL for your service. I’m so sorry you ALL didn’t get the acknowledgement and respect you ALL so greatly deserved when you returned home. You Veterans, the Vietnam Veterans are the ones I go out of my way to shake your hands and thank you. You ALL deserve so much more then what you’ve been dealt. Please know there are still civilians out here that truly appreciate you and what you ALL went through. Please know that everytime I shake a Vietnam Veterans’ hand, I do it with the utmost respect. You are ALL appreciated and respected. You ALL matter!
To: Pfc Dennis Lee Libbezoo
From: Joyce Washburn
Message: Missing you today and everyday. You are my hero and will always live in my heart.
To: High School buddy, James C. Schultz, U.S. Army, Bronze Star
Boot Camp Friends, Steven J. Foy USMC, Plt. 3009, San Diego
Michael K. Friese, USMC, Plt 3009, San Diego, Always said he felt he wouldn’t come back.
William A Hayes, USMC, Plt 3009, San Diego, Silver Star
David L. Judy, USMC, Plt 3009, San Diego, left college and signed up.
Gerald F. Lenz, USMC, Plt 3009, San Diego
Mark E. Madsen, USMC, Plt 3009, San Diego, we became good friends in training
From: Ron Deverick
Message: I joined the Marines while still in high school, 2 weeks after graduation I was in boot camp in San Diego. This was in 1967, and when they tell you that the change is forever, they aren’t kidding. That change began for me when I stepped on those yellow foot prints outside the receiving barracks. After all the training and artillery school I found myself in Vietnam. Since we were allowed to drink while spending a few days on Okinawa, I landed at DaNang real drunk. I forget where HQ’s for 3/12 , 3rd Marine Division was located at the time. The one thing I do remember is that myself and a guy from Minnesota were checking in and about to be assigned to one of the btry’s when the S-4 officer (logistics), Capt. Nastri from Rhode Island came up and said I wasn’t going anywhere because he needed another person who could also type. At that point I regretted taking typing in school. What the hell, I was trained for artillery and I was damn good at it. Being a young dumb PFC it didn’t hit me that I could have respectfully requested to be sent out to the field. I only lasted a few months in S-4 and was then moved over to BN supply where I stayed until I returned after my extension leave at which point I was finally transfered to a gun btry, Papa Btry 3/12. It was a 155 towed btry, and we went to a number of LZ’s. I ended up as section chief on gun 1 and was with the btry until I rotated back to the world. I was being intro’d to the guys when we got hit with rockets. I witnessed my first KIA during that attack. It brought back vived memories of being in the “rear” and as Corporal of the guard and checking the other guard posts I would have to go by Graves and Registration, and I would see all these dead Marines lying outside waiting to be taken care of. To this day I still see images and “ghosts” of these brave warriors. I’ve not been the same ever since.
The Marines made me grow up real quick and the discipline they instilled in me is still there, the honor, the pride, my stronger belief in God are all things I will take to the grave. Things that I’m constantly trying to work out, are my isolation, lack of friends, no real emotion, and a host of other problems, again with the help of God I’ve made some progress. Therapy has been great for me, especially with the guys I meet with. My social worker is easy to talk to, and I’ve got a new shrink who is very good. I’ve been in the PTSD ward for 6 or 7 weeks at a time on 4 different occasions, I’m a slow learner. My second wife has been great, she helps me when she can and goes to a lot of appointments with and is willing to voice her opinion, which I do appreciate. As I’ve said for a long time, I would rather be slapped across the face with the cold brutal truth than be dazzled with BS.
I think that only one of my DI’s is still alive. His name is Sgt. Clark. I would like to meet up with him and thank him for what he and the other 2 DI’s taught us, like I never knew there were so many ways to called a woman, and not a one was a compliment.
Like so many others we survived Vietnam, only to come home and be on that constantly slow walk with death, I’m talking about Agent Orange.
Hope this is what you are looking for.
Semper Fi,
Cpl Ron Deverick, USMC 1967-70 RVN 67-69
To: All Veterans and active duty
From: Andrew Moothart
Message: I would like to thank all Veterans and active duty service members for your service.
As a Vietnam Veteran myself two tours in country, I would also like to say to those who made the ultimate sacrifice that you are never forgotten.
To: My Father Robert L Burton 1967-1968 Army 23 Div. Uncle Earl J Burton1964-1967 two tours Navy USS Richard E Kress. Uncle Anthony Roberts 1966-1967 Army 173rd. Uncle James Franklin Dixon 1968-1969 Army.
From: Marco, Tanshese, Richard Burton Children
Message: ‘GOD’ Thanks for letting our Family, be a Family that Honors America. And To Mrs Elizabeth G Betty Burton our Grandmother, who for years had to sit home and cry and watch The News as Her Sons went to War in Vietnam.
To: Michael Jorgensen, Stephen Benet, Joseph Patton and all the other Mohawk men who served. Dennis
From: Jan
Message: I prayed for you all throughout the war. I knew that the nightly numbers represented real people with real friends and family and sometimes I would have to leave the dinner table in order to weep in the other room.
Now I welcome you home, with my gratitude and love.
To: To My Husband Lou Puckett & All Who Served In Vietnam!
From: Virginia Puckett
Message: Thank You All For Your Service! Lou Puckett, I’m Very Proud of Your Tour In Vietnam, Proud of Your Purple Heart, & Army Commendation Medal & Not Completing The WRAIN Program, Wasn’t As Hard For You At All, Your 2nd Commission Turn Down; Vietnam Was Next! After Vietnam, You Stayed On Active Duty For 20 Yrs., Eventually Earning The Rank of W2 As A PA. Lou, You Were The Best of Everything, Played HS Football, Sang In The Choral, Member of The NHS! Beautiful Man, Always Knew What To Say & When To Say It! Loved & Missed Everyday, Ginny xoxo
From: The Gratzas
Message: Thank you to all & God bless!!
To: Joseph N. McCarty, Sr.
From: Doris E La Caze
Message: Thank you for your service, God Bless, I Love you.
To: All Vietnam Vets
From: James Cappuccilli
Message: I fly an American flag 24/7 to honor your service. Thank you.
From: Col John David Allen, US Army Ret.
Message:
Welcome home my brothers and sisters.
Thanks for your honorable service and God bless.
Vietnam 67-68 25th ID/Late 68-69
11TH LIB of the AMERICAL ID
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