Saturday, July 4, 2015

50 Years Ago Today


Today marks the 50th anniversary of the first two American deaths in Vietnam on a Fourth of July – Major James Charles Sheriff Jr. and PFC Gordon James Deitz Jr. Over the next eight years another 165 Americans died in that conflict on our Nation’s birthday. I had the honor of telling the stories of many of these men in my book Died on the Fourth of July.

 As we celebrate America's independence, I join the family and friends of these 167 heroes to reflect on their sacrifice in the service of our country. We must never forget.
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3 comments:

  1. UnknownMarch 22, 2022 at 10:25 AM

    PFC Deitz is quite famous.

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  2. UnknownMarch 22, 2022 at 10:50 AM

    for his work in Los Angeles in 1965

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    Replies
    1. jfschlatMarch 22, 2022 at 3:23 PM

      Thanks for your note. PFC Gordon James Deitz, Jr., was from Maryland. In my research I didn't find anything about him being famous in Los Angeles. I spoke with is brother and he didn't mention anything. The brother has since died. I periodically update my book and blog with new information. If you'll send me the information you have about Los Angeles, I'd like to include it. Thanks.

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