I heard this song for the first time the other day. I dont know where Ive been, but it brought so many memories of that day 46 years ago. How my uncle Raymond gave his life in Vietnam for our country. He was only 20, I was 15. How am I supposed to process his death as a 15 year old. I miss him so much. He died so far away, in an unpopular war, and we didnt have a clue as to how he died or under what circumstances. Then 12 years ago we were contacted by Pancho. He was uncle Raymond’s best friend and sergeant. He lived in California, but wanted to come to Illinois to meet us and give us details of Uncle Raymond’s death. He died a hero alerting his comrades to an ambush by superior enemy forces and covering them while they went for cover. He exposed himself to enemy fire for them. He was awarded the Bronze Star with V for his actions. Since then we have met those men he was with the day he died. At least 12 or 13 of them, and his commanding officer. These guys have helped bring some relief to us. At least we know he was with family, when he died, the guys he loved and they loved him, it is quite evident. This song inspired me to put a slide show together of some of his pictures from Vietnam, as well as pictures from 2 reunions weve had with his brother soldiers. I also included a picture of the medic Harvey, who tried to get to uncle Raymonds aid, only to be killed himself. For his selfless act and brave actions, he was awarded the Silver Star. We got to meet Harveys younger brother Bob also, and he has become like one of our family. All the men from the 199th LIB 12/4D are my new uncles. We love them so much for their courage to reflect with us and help heal our wounds as a family. We hope it helps them with the scars they carry, even after more than 45 years. Even though grandma and grandpa are now with uncle Raymond, his 4 sisters, remain, but they are getting older. I am thankful I can pick up the mantle and carry his memory forward, knowing that one day there will be no one left to remember or honor my dear uncle Raymond. WE MUST NEVER FORGET!
Posted on: Tue, 02 Dec 2014 19:38:33 +0000
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