While We Wait - History of War

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor Arlie Spencer Jr. of Jellico, Tennessee, who fell on this day in 1970. He is remembered by his sister, Phyllis:

"My dear brother, it has been 44 years since you gave the ultimate sacrifice for your country and loved ones. You are missed everyday. Ken Burmeister and Terry Brawn have become part of the family which is appropriate since they were with you on your last day. Your place in our hearts is full of love and wonderful memories. Rest in peace. See you on the other side!"

Thank you for your service, Arlie: http://bit.ly/1opjnjI

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor Richard Vandegeer of Columbus, Ohio, who fell on this day in 1975. He is remembered by his brother-in-law, Stephen: 

"Richard being the last name on the wall has always been significant and appropriate to me. He gave so much flying people out of Saigon during the evacuation, only to give his all two weeks later in Cambodia in the last operation of the war. In a strange turn of events I am honored to serve as the Commander of the VFW Post of which Richard's commander, Lt. Gen Richard Carey is a member. Richard, you are fondly remembered and greatly missed. Thank you for your service."

Pledge to remember all who sacrificed:http://wefb.it/D72A54

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor Martin Francis Killilea of Roxbury, Massachusetts, who fell on this day in 1966. He is remembered by his niece, Mary: 

"He and another soldier John Robert Booty were both hit with friendly fire that night. I do not know the family of John booth but I feel a kindred spirit with them. I believe they are the only men KIA on the day in Vietnam. Martin was the joy of the family and the youngest of six. Although many of us have never met him - his many nieces and nephews are so proud of his service and his sacrifice. We want his memory to love on." 

Pledge to keep the memory of our fallen veterans alive:http://wefb.it/D72A54

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today we honor Edward Larry Chapman, who passed away in October of 2008. He is remembered by his son, Jason:

"He was a Vietnam vet from 1968 to 1977 in the U.S. Army. He was a truck driver and passed away October 2008."

Thank you for your service, Edward.

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor Jim Burch of Freedom Indiana, who fell on this day in 1967. He is remembered by his niece, Melissa: 

"Uncle Jim was killed on May 18, 1967, in Pleiku as a part of the first battle which is known as Nine Days in May. He was a part of the 4th Platoon, Company B, 1-8th Infantry Battalion. I never met him as he was killed before I was born. However, his brother (my dad) and sister both shared stories of the three of them growing up as siblings. Over time it just felt like that he wasn't really gone but just lived far away somewhere and could never come home to visit. Dad and Aunt Mary's stories had a way of making feel like I knew him. I often wonder what life would have been like for our family had he lived. But more importantly what would it have been like for Jim had he have lived."

Thank you for your service: http://bit.ly/Tijcdw

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor Daniel (DJ) Giordano of Hi-Nella, New Jersey, who fell on this day in 1969. He is remembered by his friend, Denny:

"The memory is ours forever."

Thank you for your service. Pledge to remember our fallen: http://wefb.it/D72A54

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor Thomas Barth of Lakewood, California, who fell on this day in 1969. He is remembered by his friend, Daniel: 

"Thank you, Tom for your Courage, Duty, Honor, and Sacrifice. Your Country Called and you Answered. Always will remember you. Wish I could have been there for you Buddy. Your Friend, Dan." 

Thank you for your service, Thomas:http://bit.ly/1gLiWOJ

 

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor Marcus Ray Alford Sr. of Knoxville, Tennessee, who fell in 2010 while serving with the Army in Iraq. With dreams to join the military, he had a great love for people and those around him. He was 28. We thank you for your service. 

Marcus' name will be read at approx. 3:57 p.m. this Saturday at our Reading of the Names: Post 9/11 Heroes event. Join us as we continue to heal wounds and honor warriors. Full list of reading times can be found here: http://www.vvmf.org/rotn

 

 

 

 

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor Michael Mesich of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who fell on this day in 1970. He is remembered by his friend and co-worker, Russell: 

"Mike is still missed."

Thank you for your service, Michael:http://bit.ly/1sWHpkb

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor James Zimmer of Owego, New York, who fell on this day in 1968. He is remembered by his cousin, Linda: "My cousin Jim died in Viet Nam on May 22, 1968. He is missed so much by his family and friends. Jim was a kind-hearted person who gave his life for our Country. I spent many days after he passed at his grave site talking to him."

We also honor James Steighner (pictured middle) ofSaxonburg, Pennsylvania, who fell on this day in 1967. He is remembered by his cousin, Rick. And lastly we honor Valentino J. Lascola Jr. (right) of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, who fell on this day in 1970. He is remembered by his niece, Julie.

Thank you three for serving!

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor Earl Shark of Pomona, California, who fell in 1968. Today would have been his birthday. He is remembered by his cousin, Winnie:

" Happy Birthday Cousin. Had you lived, you would have been 68 today. I think of all the Birthdays that you've missed and the life you missed out on. It's just not fair. You were always SUCH a good guy. I remember you playing with me when the other cousin's wouldn't, even though I was 8 years younger than you. You were always so sweet to me. And before you left for Vietnam, you took me for a ride on your motorcycle. We had so much fun! I have never forgotten you Earl. I even sold MIA/POW Bracelets from the Claremont Chamber of Commerce every day after school, Jr & Sr years of High School. I never missed a day. And I ALWAYS had your bracelet on, for years, until it broke. I've scratched your name numerous times from the Wall in DC and a few Traveling Walls. Always pointing out your name to others near by. "THAT'S my cousin Earl!" With a proud smile on my face & a tear in my eye. I'm finding comfort in knowing that you are with your Dad, brother Jeff, and my Mom & Dad, now. My Dad was always soooo proud of you. All of us have missed you so much and have always wondered how you died and where your remains are. They were never found or brought home to rest. Finding this Vietnam Memorial site, I have read many comments from people who knew you or are still wearing your bracelet. One comment finely told me about the ambush you encountered that day and that you were shot & captured. I'm so sorry that this had to happen to you. The Hell you must have endured. You were a brave & wonderful man Earl and will NEVER be forgotten. I Salute you, Sir. Love you. Your cousin, Winnie"

Thank you for serving, Earl: http://wefb.it/D72A54

 — with Earl Shark.

[Bumper64]

 

Jesse Melton III's name will be read today at 3:15 p.m. His mother stated,

"A few days after I received the news about Jesse’s demise, I was informed that my son was not scheduled to be on the convoy the day that he was killed. Jesse was asked by a senior Captain go in his place on the convoy...I believe in my heart that God in his divine providence granted that Captain a continuation of his earthly life so that he could live to care for his wife and newborn baby...The scripture John 15:13 comes to mind frequently when I think about Jesse’s sacrifice, "Greater Love has no man than this, But to lay down his life for his friends" #NROTN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The name of Travis Layfield will be read at approx. 10:50 a.m. by his mother, Dianne who stated,

"Travis was full of life and energy. He had the most beautiful smile...He loved to dance and make sure that everyone had a good time. He had a huge heart...his legacy lives on through his son.” #NROTN

 

 

 

 

[Bumper64]

 

The name of Lance Corporal Cody Steven Childers was read at approx. 4:15 p.m. today. It was read by his mother, Wendy:

"Cody was living his lifelong dream of being a United States Marine. At the age of 19, he was with 2/6 "Devils Cowboys" Marines based out of Camp Lejeune and deployed June, 2010 as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. While on patrol,Cody, a Machinegunner, was KIA on August 20, 2010 in Marjah Afghanistan. Cody was always our families Hero and now we share him with all of America. In Cody's honor, we started the LCpl Cody Childers Memorial Fund (wecaremarines.com) and have mailed over 3200 care packages in his name. Supporting the Marines he loved being a part of is an honor." #NROTN

[Bumper64]

 

 

Today we honor 3 veterans: John Sutherland of Tampa, Florida, who fell on this day in 1967, Jerry Fraze ofDallas, Texas, who fell in 1968, and Alfred Kircher ofOzone Park, Queens, who fell on this day in 1967. John is remembered by his sister, Cathi: "I always looked up to him as my older brother...but then he became a hero."

Jerry is remembered by his friend and classmate, Michael: "Jerry Fraze answered his countries' call right out of high school with an enlistment in the Marine Corps. He fell on March 12, 1968, leading an assault on a bunker complex near the village of Lam Xaun, in northern I Corp. He was awarded the Bronze Star with "V" for valor. Jerry was a popular student who was a standout in both football and baseball. Cpl. Fraze was married. RIP "Chin". May we never forget."

Alfred is remembered by his daughters, Susan and Cheryl: "He was a proud member of the 3rd PLT, C. CO 1st BN, 327th Infantry, 101sr ABN DIV. Words can not express the loss we feel nor the pride and love that we hold dear in our hearts everyday."

Thank you for your service.

[Maggie123]

Bumper this is the first thread that I sought out when I signed on today... because I wanted to THANK YOU!!!

 

For all of your tireless efforts daily... for months and months... to honor our fallen Vets.

 

You have kept them in our minds and our hearts everyday... having given me the nudge to think about them and honor them daily.

 

I find that such a commendable goal that you made and have consistantly followed through with.

 

Just wanted you to know how much I have admired what you have been doing here... And You Too Vietnam68.

 

 

So Here Is A Message Holding A Whole Lot Of Appreciation For You Both and Many Hugs Your Way,

 

Maggie

 

 

 

 

*God Bless Our Veterans*

[waterman13]

Hope everyone is having a great and safe Memorial Day weekend! Remember our fallen heroes.

Wm13

[Bumper64]

Thank You!!  

[Bumper64]

Today we honor William Jordan III (left), of Bangor, Maine, who fell in 1966. Today would have been his birthday. He is remembered by his sister, Kathleen: "Although it's been 47 years, it still feels like yesterday." 

We also honor Michael Fallon (right) of Jersey City, New Jersey, who fell on this day in 1968. He is remembered by his friend, James: "Mike was always the toughest guy in the neighborhood.always there to protect us from trouble.the whole neighborhoodwas in shock when he died. His father was so proud of him.he went to his grave often and every year he went to the memorial service for all those from Jersey city killed in war."

Thank you for serving!

[vietnam1969]

David Bernard Champagne   

Medal of Honor recipient

Born November 13, 1932
Waterville, Maryland Died May 28, 1952 (aged 19)
KIA in Korea Allegiance United States of America Service/branch United States Marine Corps Years of service 1951-1952 Rank Corporal Unit 1st Battalion, 7th Marines Battles/wars Korean War Awards Medal of Honor (1952)
Purple Heart     
John Doran Kelly   

John D. Kelly, posthumous Medal of Honor recipient

Born July 8, 1928
Youngstown, Ohio Died May 28, 1952 (aged 23)
Killed in action in Korea Place of burial Jefferson Memorial Cemetery
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Allegiance United States of America Service/branch United States Marine Corps Years of service 1951-1952 Rank Private First Class Unit 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division Battles/wars Korean War Awards Medal of Honor
Purple Heart   
John King

Chief Water Tender John King, USN

Born February 7, 1865
Ballinrobe, Ireland Died May 20, 1938 (aged 73) Place of burial Hot Springs, Arkansas Allegiance United States of America Service/branch United States Navy Years of service 1893–1916, fl. 1917-1919 Rank Chief Watertender Unit USS Vicksburg (PG-11)
USS Salem (CL-3) Battles/wars Spanish-American War
Philippine-American War
World War I Awards Medal of Honor (2)    

Maggie 123

             Thank you for your kind words.

Edited May 28, 2014 by vietnam1969

[Maggie123]

You are more than welcome Vietnam 1969... I meant every word... this thread has become very important.

 

What a work of love in honoring our fallen Veterans this has become.

 

I'm going to start leaving +'s everytime... so you will know I was here.

 

Appreciate all you are doing here.

 

 

 

PS. I'm so sorry I got the year wrong in your name last time... I felt bad.

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor the following three veterans. 
First is Donald Mathis of Harriman, Tennessee, who fell on this day in 1971. He is remembered by his sister, Laura: "He was my best friend and we didn't always get along. He was quiet but also a jokester. Went out of his way to be nice to people that others would shun. He was my friend and brother and I miss him. Love you brother."

Second is Valarian Finley of Mandaree, North Dakota, who fell on this day in 1969. He is remembered by his neice, Valari: "I never had the chance of meeting him but I am very proud to call him my uncle and I appreciate the sacrifice that he and every soldier has ever made to give us the freedom we have now. No words or actions will ever be enough to let them know how much they are appreciated each and every day."

Lastly is Floyd Cribb of Hemingway, South Carolina, who fell in 1966. He is remembered by his neice, Wanda: "My uncle Floyd Allwn died before I got the chance to meet him! He died in Vietnam helping two fallen soldiers. He is a hero in my eyes!"

Ensure these heroes get the reverence they deserve: http://bit.ly/1k1CZsE

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor William Moses of Charlotte, North Carolina, who fell on this day in 1968. He is remembered by his best friend, Bill: 

" I know that when I get to heaven that the first person I will see there. It will be my best friend Billy Moses. A true friend, a true Marine, A true Hero. Billy was only a few miles from me when he was KIA in VietNam. I wish that I could have been by his side, when the time came for him to go and meet our maker. Billy, you may be gone from my eyes but not from my heart. I love you Brother. RIP until we can be together once again. Bill ( Viet Nam 1968-1969 )"

Thank you for your service, William:http://bit.ly/1mvMeOW

[Maggie123]

Dang out of +'s Bumper... Thank You and I hope I can "borrow" a + from someone until I get recharged. 

 

Bill's words remembering and honoring his friend William are so touching.

 

RIP William Moses and Thank You for your service Bill... I am so sorry for the loss of your best friend.

 

Until You Meet Again...

[Maggie123]

Thank You To Whoever Did That... Very Much Appreciated!

[Bumper64]

 

Today we honor Robert Poxon of Detroit, Michigan, who fell on this day in 1969. He is remembered by his younger sister, Karen: 

"No matter how many years go by it still seems like yesterday the soldiers were at our door telling us my brother Bob was killed in Vietnam. I was only 8 when he enlisted into the Army and 11 when he died. He will always be my Hero and I know he is in Heaven looking after all of his brothers and sisters. He is a Medal of Honor recipient and I pray for him and all Vietnam Veterans whether they made it home or not. God Bless all our veterans."

Thank you for your service, Robert:http://bit.ly/1nVw2JD

[Bumper64]

Almighty God: Our sons, pride of our nation, this day have set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our Republic, our religion and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity. -FDR June 6, 1944