On this Fourth of July, let’s pause to honor 42 American who
gave their lives in the service of our country in Vietnam 50 years ago today.
The year 1968 was the deadliest year for Americans in the
Vietnam war, with 16,899 servicemen killed during the year, an average of 46 a
day. The Fourth of July that year was a typical day, with 42 men dying. The
16,899 who died in 1968 were 29% of all those killed in the war. For
perspective, about about 11,000 died in each year of 1967 and 1969.
The 42 men who died on July 4, 1968, came from 23 different
states, and they ranged in age from 18 to 32 and in rank from Private to Major.
They are:
Well....my emotional quotient just shot up...again today!
ReplyDeleteDear John.....My wife and I are now living on the western slope of Colorado. We attended a parade today. I was so proud to see the audience reaction when vets rolled or walked by. There was a Vettes For Vets car club of about 20 Corvettes of many vintages. Each passenger was a Vet as noted by a placard in the windshield. There was. Motorcycle club....all Vets...and representatives from the local VA and other related associations.
I found it hard to take photos as my vision was clouded by tears.
Then, a jovial afternoon with my in laws. And then to find your wonderful message and it’s contents. THANK YOU DO MUCH! You’re about as Red, White and Blue as they get.
I see my buddy, Brad Bowers.....seeing his name brings so many thoughts. I am extremely fortunate to have returned home and lived the long and wonderful life I’ve been privileged to have.
I, honor, you for this rememberance on this SPECIAL DAY!
Robert Velasquez, SP4 25th Infantry Division - Dau Tieng, Republic of Vietnam