KIA TABLE CEREMONY
We asked our members to write a note of remembrance and place it on the table. Here are some of those notes .....
2018
Roger K. Jones KIA 5/16/68 Dear Daddy, I can’t believe you’ve been gone/taken away from me 50 years now, I remember as a small child laying in bed praying to God that it was a mistake and that you’d be back. As I grew older I knew that wasn’t going to happen. I would talk to you with no response. Though you weren’t here physically you still helped me become the woman I am. I grew up very close to Nanny and Paw Paw. They are all I had left of you. They told ma about you. I believe in God and I’ve never been afraid to die. I know we will be together again. You have been a guardian angel of mine. Until we are together again, you will always be remembered. Lots of Love, Your daughter Candy
Roger Kenneth Jones KIA 5/16/1968 My husband, my Marine, I miss you so. Even after 50 years, my pain is as hurtful as the day you died. Our daughter has a broken heart because she doesn’t remember you. When I dream of you, I’m always trying to get you together. But it never happens. I cry in the shower so as to not upset anyone else. You are always in my heart Love, Stephanie
Roger your life was cut short but your legacy lives on. Your mom is still here and she misses you. Your mom can’t wait to see you and Paw. Thank you for allowing me to be a father to Candice a Grandfather to Zack and Nicolas and a Great Grandfather to Amera. I am so proud to be married to Stephanie. She has missed you over the years. As you look down just know that all your family loved you. “Doc” Pardue
I sometimes question what you were like. My grandmother says I remind her of you. My mother named me after you (middle name). I would like to thank you for your sacrifice for me so I could live my life in this country. Nicolas Roger Garcia 5/19/18
5-20-18 Roger Jones, Thank you for your service. I wish you could be here to see what a beautiful wife and mother your daughter Candice has become. She is proud of you and misses you very much.
Your son-in-law Michael A. Garcia
To Sgt. Rodriguez-Colone C/1/7 All you taught me as your Plt. Guide in the 2ndMarines I Co. 62-64. When we were transferred to the 1stBn.7thMarines at Pendleton. You went to Charlie Co. I went to Delta and got my own Plt. I lived throughout our tour 65/66. You gave up your life for us all. I later went back to WestPac in 1968/69. I commanded that unit and came home because you taught me well.
John Richard, Capt. USMC retired
05/19/2018 Words can’t even explain how much your sacrifice will ever mean. Your legacies are something that will live on forever in the future generations and especially within my family. The stories and pictures that are left are the everlasting proof of your sacrifice. Thank you will never be enough. N.
To George Stansell, Charlie Company 1/7. George, we survived PI together and our first 13 months Far East team 1963-64. When I got word that you had been KIA we, Delta Company, were on Hwy #1. You are loved and missed by all Marines and Navy Corpsmen of 1/7 65-66. See you soon, Semper Fi,
Chuck Yohn, Delta 1/7 65-66
Many of the 566 I neither knew or met, but still we are brothers. It hurts no less not knowing them as we mourn all that Gave All. Left San Diego with original RLT 7 (REW). I was in 1stEng Bn but no less part of 7thMarine. Had the pleasure of serving with 1/7 in 65-66. I was surrounded by the best fighting force of the war. Thank You God for allowing me to be a brother of these Fine Marines and Corpsmen.
Roger L. Horton, MSgt
To your family I pray will go on and never forget the life you gave. God knew that you were coming home so he sent an Angel to come get you. There were so many of you that never came back. We the people of the Vietnam age will never forget how you treated the ones who came home. God bless each and everyone who went and never came home. I pray for the MIA that we will someday lay them to rest beside their friends.
Otis Robert Jones Bob, You, Freel and I all were in the same squad when we got to Nam. You made us all laugh no matter what circumstances we were in. After I got wounded Freel said you guys really got into some heavy combat. I feel bad I could not have been there to help you guys. Neither Freel nor I will ever forget you and your friendship. God Bless you until we meet again Aubrey Hemingway
19MAY2018 L/Cpl Thomas McKnight Tommy, tomorrow will mark Fifty years that I had to say goodbye, my friend. You were my best and closest friend in Vietnam and not a day goes by that I don’t have a thought of you. Every year on your birthday and they day you died, I raise a glass in your honor. My first son was named for both you and Dave Lipscomb (Lippy). Rest in Peace my friend. I’ll never forget you. Bob Hadd
Brother Ed 1/7 Charley Co. It’s been 50 yrs that we have not had you by our sides … But you have always been in our hearts. We are always so proud of you and you will always be our hero. We wait to be with you, Mom, and Dad again. Our love to you always!
Zeno, still miss you. Wish you were here. I have tried to live my life in a way that would make you proud of me. Hope I succeeded. See you B4 much longer. Your Partner Jason
Ron, I remember you dying in my arms and thinking of you often, May 19th1968. Will meet you again someday. DCM
Butler, I always touch your name when I go to The Wall. I can see your face and I remember the laughs me, you and Iverson shared. Your spirit lives on. AL Ogle
Butler, For 32 years I knew you only from a 1967 Christmas photo and as one of the many brave Marines who didn’t make it home. After this weekend, I now know you as so much more. While I’ll never fully understand the bond you had with my father. I am forever grateful you were with him on that hill on 3/17/67. I very likely would not be here today were you not. Christopher Ogle proud son of Alan Ogle
5/19/2018 My son joined us this year – so grateful for the marines and what his father sacrificed.
Semper Fi Nancy Ogle
Lt. Cobb, Lt. Cross, PFC Tucker. I teach history at MCRD San Diego. I tell your history and let them know what great Marines like you did and set the standards you would have them keep.
Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice you’ve given for my precious freedom. I can never adequately pay you in any form for this privilege and honor.
Dear Doc Rosie 6/4/68 I think of you often. I have been blessed and very fortunate in life. I feel much of the blessing and luck were given to me by you since you could no longer use it. From the laughs we shared on R&R in Manila to the tears shed upon your death. God Bless Ron
My husband served in the USMC from 1967 – 1969 with 1/7 Marines in Vietnam. It takes a special kind of person to be so dedicated, and brave. Thank You so much for fighting for our country, America, which we hold so dear. And God Bless each of you for your service. For all of you, and those who gave their lives, it is a blessing to know, you’ll be forever brothers. In this life, and the next.
Sincerely Mrs. Elizabeth Park 5-19-18
In a few days it will be 50 yrs since you were killed. You never got to meet your daughter but, you would be so proud. Till we meet again.
Cpl. Winston Raymo Remembered always as the true example of a supreme MARINE! Brother you taught me well. Tim Phillips 1stSgt USMC retired
To: Patrick Purdin Patrick, Another reunion and I still wish you could have been here. Yesterday we read the Names of 566 men from 1/7 who were KIA. I was one of the readers. I was afraid to get up in front of all the Marines but I felt I owed it to you to do so. When they came to your name, I almost broke out in tears. I will never forget the bravery you showed that day. Thank you for saving my life. Aubrey Hemmingway
Your name is forever etched in stone to remind generations of the price you paid for our freedom.
To my 566 Brothers, “Thank you for your service to our great country”. Pretty sure you never got to hear that. Nobody ever said that to me until 1992. Love you men and thank you for every breath I take.
To Michael Walsh - Less than 6 weeks of friendship was what God allowed. Your sharp wit and humor meant there were no dull moments when you were in the room. Rest well my brother – we’ll pick up the conversation, jokes, and grab ass – later. LKS C-1/7
Dear Brother Dave & Glen, I miss you both – especially Dave since you were my team mate. I have tried to live my life as fully as I could. Sometimes I have failed at that – letting temporary things like work or worldly honors dampen the fire which is true joy in life. To Gunny Perez – forgive me for hating you at the time. I understand now that responsibility in combat requires not being a “buddy”.
We in Charley Co. & 2ndPlt. Miss you All TEX
To all of my Marine and Corpsmen Brothers who were KIA on Jan 31 1968. Our 9 Marines and 3 Navy Corpsmen. You will never be forgotten.
Tilmen, In that rice paddy on August 12, 1969 you took the machinegun fire up through your chest, saved my life & died in my arms. Since then you have lived in the birth of my children & grandchildren, through my time of love with my wife. You were remembered at all of my Christmas’s and ate Turkey at all of our Thanksgivings. Whenever the quiet sets in you are there. I miss you my friend.
Semper Fi Brother. I look to see you in Heaven. Pat Hanley
To a dear brother, son, uncle & friend. We lost you on March 16. 1968, but in our loss we gained our pride, our respect for you and all brave men & women who served us and our country. The pride and love for you will never end. Your family & friends here on earth have grown closer & more loving because of our love for you. In Memory: Edward J. Ariaz
We as a family of 8 are here to represent my brother Eddie Ariaz KIA Vietnam 3/16/68 and I know our parents and Eddie are looking down on us – knowing we are here to keep peace for the USA – We love you Eddie -and are so proud of you.
Patricia Depoian, Ron, Gilbert, Ray, Pam, Gloria, Rich, Rose, Roger, Greg
We wrote about getting together in Nam early in 1968. You were up north and I was in Saigon at the air base. It never happened because you gave up your life for the way we live. Thank you Edward J. Ariaz
We will always miss you. Once a Marine always a Marine. We will miss you forever THE FAMILY
George, Thank you for your dedication and for all you taught me during our time together. I will do everything I can to keep your memory alive and make you proud. I love you Brother Ron Bennington
Thank you. For everything. You are my heroes. My inspiration. My goal to be. Although you fought a war many thought was hopeless, your service can never be unnoticed. Thank you for fighting for me, my family, my nation. We are indebted to you. Forever and always you will live in my heart and those around me. I am forever grateful you fought for me to be here. For me to wake up every morning to do whatever need be Thank you. Sincerely, Christin Downing
To my fallen brothers, thank you for your sacrifices and keeping me alive. Know that you will never be forgotten; forever brothers. May all the light and love of universe shine on your families. Brothers Forever
Marcello Gomez, Alpha Co. 68 CAPS 69
5-19-18 To: LeRoy Poppema/Corpsman/B 1/7 I remember pitching against you in H.S. Seeing you again on Hill 10 and getting you assigned to one of my squads. I remember going home in May of ’68 and learning of your death later that month … Your sister came to my home to talk about what a wonderful young man you were. I agreed and grieved along with your family. I told them that you had been a wonderful asset to everyone you had ever met. No other words were possible. I carry your memory in my heart every day and your picture in my billfold for the last 50 years. Wishing we were still pitching against each other … with love, Cpl. Pete Zeverberger
To those of you who can’t be with us in person – just know that your sacrifice will never be forgotten. Each of us will know that your sacrifice has allowed us to live the lives that we do each day.
The Surovy Family 1/1 & 1/7
May 19th, 2018 Marines, Thank you so much. I don’t believe that we would be here without your sacrifices. I wish I could bring you all home to see friends and loved ones. I want to see their faces light up and hear their cries of joy. Hearing my grandfather’s stories makes me wish I could bring his friends/brothers home so they can tell their fun stories together, to hear them laugh and remember together. Thank you for fighting for me and my home. Can’t wait to see you one day and thank you with open arms. M.C.D.
Dear Sirs, Words cannot express my gratitude for your service. I know it was not easy to leave your families and homes to serve our wonderful country. My dad, Salvador Olivas, was able to see the names of his friends he shared the stories of Tyrone Parnnell, Virgil Barton and another soldier. I met men he served with. It was one of the greatest honors of my life. Although we have never met, please know you will never be forgotten. I am grateful to you, your families for your sacrifice. May God be with you and your families forever. Thank you, Noemi Hubbard
To the Marines and Corpsmen of 1stBattalion 7thMarines, Thank you for all of your sacrifice and dedication. You have paved the way for Marines like me. I will work everyday to ensure that your commitment, legacy, and memories live on. Semper Fi Get Some
Everyone here tonight misses you, but we know our time is short and we will all see you soon.
The ultimate sacrifice that you made for your country and for your fellow Marines will never be forgotten. We are all touched by the reading of your names – we, the living, know you as our fellow Marines – always remembered. Capt. Steven J. Ek USMC
To all the men and women who gave their lives for our freedom, Thank you would not be sufficient, but I know you did not fight for a “thank you”, but rather out of service and duty for our country, and I am forever grateful that there are men and women braver and stronger than I could ever be, Ooo-rah!
Richie Polley I found your name on the wall this week. Wish you could see how well the football team has done. They went to State last year. You would probably be helping coach the young men if you had come home.
Marine, I want to thank you for your service and your sacrifice for our country. Thank you for letting me be able to grow up in a safe environment. I really appreciate what you did for this country.
Thank you, Danielle Hubbard
Dear Willie, Paul, Mr. Gresh, and all the guys who were Larry’s friends. Your life way short, but not forgotten at all. Every day you are remembered and loved, not only by your family, but you are remembered by mine. I have watched Larry grow from a boy into a man, and I know in his heart you sit and help him. Love now and forever. Cindy Jordan, Larry Jordan’s wife
To Robert “Willy” Williams KIA Sept 23 1968 Hill 10 Incoming rounds took your young life away. Yet, we who served with you will never forget your name, your character, your friendship. My daily prayers bring me closer to and someday together again we shall be. You, like so many other are National Treasure. Rest in eternal peace in the arms of the lord. Semper Fidelis. Larry Jordan 1/7
Marine We sit, and drink, and toast your sacrifice. We miss you but know you are not forgotten!
1/7 Marine
Jim, Lonnie & Mouse - I’m here again and you’re here again too. If I would have told you in Vietnam that so many of your fellow Marines would honor you so proudly, you would have laughed at me. See you soon! I’ll be the one with the white moustache! Tom Prater
Dear Willie I did not know you, however I married a man who was deeply affected by your loss. He speaks of you often. Tears roll down his cheeks as he believes it should have been him instead of you. God has a plan, though hard to believe you should have gone so soon. Nothing is fair in Love and War. Thank you for your generous love of country. I married this soldier when he came home. I love him! And you!
Robert Enoch Williams 23 Sept.1968 Hill 10 Hardly a day goes by that I don’t think about 23 Sept. 1968. One mortar round, ended your life. Seeing you laying in the cooler at grave registration is or will always be in my mind. There’s so much I want to say to you and will when we meet again. I’m here because of you my friend and will always miss you greatly. Semper Fi Len Erickson
You are not forgotten, specifically Normon & Stephens I grew up hearing about you and your last moments with my father (Peter). He cries every time he speaks of your sacrifice on Operation Worth.
A proud son of a 1/7 Bravo Marine Matthew
Geoff Green I remember the day we pulled you and the other five Marines out of the entrance to the NVA underground hospital. You five didn’t get the word from the engineers that explosives eat all the oxygen underground when you blow a cave. I can still see your face looking up as we recovered you five Marines. It was a very sad day. Semper Fi David T. Harvey Second Platoon B Company
Marines of 1/7, Thank you and your families for your ultimate sacrifice. You will not be forgotten and will be forever loved. Stacy L. Taylor Colonel U.S. Marines Corps
HN Frederick Edward Hughens Dear Uncle Fred, I was just three years old when you were killed in Vietnam. Since I was so young I can just remember a little about you. I have been told so many wonderful things about you from your mother, my grandmother, your sister, my mother, and my father, who was your brother-in-law. I have seen some pictures of you holding me as a baby and I know you would have been the best Uncle a boy could ask for. Even though I didn’t get to know you very well, I love you and miss you so much it hurts. I hope I have in some small way filled your shoes on this earth as a husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, American, and of course Uncle. I Love You Uncle Fred, Your nephew, Joseph Moore
Sgt Ehrhard Pohl Your S-2 intelligence scout snipers are here to honor your memory. Your sister Tricia and her husband Rick joined us. We have not and will never forget you. Semper Fi
Chumpta khong quen ong bon toi
Mr May the Lord have a place in his mind for sacrifices – in what they accomplish THANK YOU
Although your sacrifice was great some of your sacrifice is what helped me be here today, Without the things you did I would not be here today. I may not know your names and me father may not have known you by name but your brotherhood to all your Marines has kept us free. They say freedom is not free and this will always stick with me. I’m grateful for your dedication to your country, family and friends. You will never be – forgotten. Thank you for your service. A Sniper’s Daughter!
The time my husband spent with you made him the man he is – and your loss made him stronger, kinder, and more appreciative of life – because he lived and you did not. I understand the words “Thank you for your service” includes those who died and those who lived and remembered you LSK
Butler, For 32 years I knew you only from a 1967 Christmas photo and as one of the many brave Marines who didn’t make it home. After this weekend, I now know you as so much more. While I’ll never fully understand the bond you had with my father. I am forever grateful you were with him on that hill on 3/17/67. I very likely would not be here today were you not. Christopher Ogle proud son of Alan Ogle
5/19/2018 My son joined us this year – so grateful for the marines and what his father sacrificed.
Semper Fi Nancy Ogle
Dear Freddy - It has been 46 years in June. Miss you but am sure Mama has told you about my family. She and Daddy I know have been there with you. Proud of your sacrifice for your country. Tell my kids about you and your life. Love you, Patsy
I lost three of you. I think of you guys all the time. My only wish is that I could have done more to save your lives. All I can say is I’m sorry for failing you. Doc Irish
Howard M. Burns Mike, you have been missed for so long. We always tell stories & talk about you. Our children will never forget you. We have always been so proud of you and miss you. Love Barb, Sue, Pat, Charlie
May 18, 2018 Before this week the only thing I really knew of the Vietnam War was what I heard or learned in school. I now have learned the names, seen the pictures, heard numerous stories & met people that I will always remember. I feel honored to be a part of your induction ceremony. God bless you all & your families & thank you for your service. PC
“For Jim” – I didn’t know you long – but I did know you – Rest in Peace Brother
I never knew you personally, but you made the ultimate sacrifice. You gave your life for my freedom and the freedom of others. For that I am truly grateful. It seems like my thank you is so small compared to what you did. Please know that I mean it from my heart.
Brother, words cannot describe how much I wish you could be here, living the life you deserved. Your sacrifice was a roll of the dice, a convergence of time and place, and even as an act of protecting the injured and selfless courage. We love and miss you.
The ultimate sacrifice, you are loved and forever missed-the brothers beside you that came home will have you forever in their hearts.
To our fallen heroes, we will always remember & forever be grateful for your sacrifice for our freedom. We can never repay you, but we will never forget. We love you with our whole hearts!
Brenda Stamper Marine wife and daughter Plano, TX
Until we meet again on the Green of 1st& 7th. I will never forget you my brothers.
Robert Stamper C-1/7-68
Thank You for your service and sacrifice for all of the Americans. Hope to see you in the next world Michael John Kelly. We visit your grave frequently. Until we meet again. Billy Ranes
“It don’t mean nuthin” unless you were there, then it means everything Sel Wong
Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice that you gave for our freedom. God bless you and your family. Violet Wong
Ron Delverde Jerry Mullins Shelham Butler Lonnie Gay
Hope to see you guys again. Rest in peace. I miss you
Your ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten nor was it in vain. You are not forgotten. I lack the words to truly thank you.
Martin you would be so proud and we are all proud of you. You will never be forgotten. God bless you.
God bless you and your families. I think of you every day and dream of our times a lot!
Semper Fi - Browning
Growing up I had almost the sacrifices that my father and some of you made. I think that he felt as though he let some of you down. I pry that one day he finds peace as you have. War is a terrible thing. Thank you for being a brother to him; looking after him and giving your life for him. Thank you for paying the ultimate sacrifice and thank you for your families that sacrificed a great deal also. My prayers are with your families.
The world may end but the souls of warrior live on.
You are not forgotten. Your brothers in arms and those you left behind remember your sacrifice always. Rest easy, soldiers
I will never forget you. I pray for you all the time. We will be together soon. I be coming to see you. Please save a place for me. I just found out your first name at the 2018 reunion. H&S Comm. MSgt. Larsen
Dear Dad, Happy Father’s Day Love You Michele
2016
Marines of C 1-7 2nd Plt. 65-66
You have been gone for over 50 years, but you have not been forgotten. You are a part of my daily life. You are in my constant thoughts and prayers. Looking forward to seeing you in eternity. Your Plt. Cmdr. Jim Fulkerson
On an ambush one night Jim Randolph told me that he would not leave Vietnam alive. When I said “Everyone feels that sometime”, he said, “No you don’t understand, I’m not fearful, I just know I’ll die here. I’m not upset, I’m glad I’m here and glad I’m a Marine. I just know”. The next day he was shot and died trying to retrieve another Marine’s body. He was 18 years old. I think of all the years I have had since then and how short the lives of Jim and the other Marine’s were that were lost there. I appreciate their sacrifice and love of country. Damn liberals made it all in Vain.
Lt. George W. Coleman I was devastated when I learned of your death in Nam in March 1968. Because of you I have been able to live a good life that you were denied. You kept me out of the bush 5 days before I rotated and for this I will be forever grateful. May you rest in peace. Till we meet again. CPL, Ken Dohanish USMC
Buddies …………. We miss you and seldom does a day pass when I do not wistfully think of you guys and the seeming unfairness of your deaths so young. ….. The best meaning I can give your deaths is to be the best American and the best Christian I can be to work and live and let part of you live in me. God Bless you all Mike ? C 1/7 69-70
This “Doc” did his very best! I’m sorry to the ones that it wasn’t good enough. God Bless All of you that are in Gods Arms! Doc Shelly
To Jasso, Curtis, & Wright I never met you, but you were my husband’s brothers in combat. We have visited you at The Wall in Washington, D.C., and The Wall in Dallas. Thank you for your service and for giving all. We Remember!
Tommy, Augie, Bill, Marvin, and all the rest of you. Welcome Home! Rich
Dennis “Andy” Anderson passed away last month from cancer, leaving his wife Karen to mourn her loss. Andy, a radio operator, called in the air support that saved what was left of Charley Company 1/7 on the 19th of May. I don’t think I would be alive to pen this if he had not done that. He called it his duty. I call it heroism by definition. I feel like he saved a lot of lives that day in 1968 doing his job.
Along with honoring our fallen comrades who died for us, I will always honor the memory of Andy Anderson, a survivor, who died 48 years later. John Tunnell C-1-7 67/68
To L/Cpl. Mouse Year after year there isn’t any time I don’t think of you. May prayer be with you always. I know you left us, but you are looking down on all of us that are still here on this planet. Please watch over all of us. We will all be together once again. Ret’d MSgt. Larsen H&S Co. Comm. Plt.
Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice for myself, fellow Marines, and the United States of America. You will live in my heart and memory forever. May God Bless you and give you eternal peace. L/Cpl. Paul Patty Semper Fidelis Vietnam ‘68/’69
While here toasting that you all are not here, and remembering those times we had together, so brief it was. But, I know you all are up there toasting to us waiting till we join you. Cpl. M. Kirbie
May 14, 2016 Thanks to all those who looked out for my husband. He is here because someone else paid the ultimate price. I was waiting for him and I thank everyone that I have him here to be my man until the end of time.
I have been to Vietnam every night. I pledge that I will remember my fallen brothers All the Days of my life.
Neil Will never forget you, wish I could of pulled you through, did all I could, so proud to have served with such a Brave Marine. Doc
Norm Grant We were best friends and talked about the possibilities of being killed – our mutual saying “Better you than me”. Turns out it was you. I will be along in time. I hope you are in a good place.
To: Cpl. Larry Smedley As the 1/7 Bn. S-3 I sent you into harms way I December 1967. Because we did not know the enemy that you ? we exposed was there. You and your squad from “D” Co. responded as brave Marines have always responded. God Bless you and all your squad members. Major W. F. U’ren
To Lt. Tyron Pannel Another year has passed, and once again all your brothers in arms re-unite to celebrate your life, along with our sorely missed. You as the tallest man in 2nd Plt., and me as the shortest man in the Plt., it was a privilege to have you rest your elbow on my head. Rest in peace, know your 2nd Plt. has your back. Sgt. Sal Olivas
Bart, Your life was so short. You died in my arms on August 12, 1969. It could have been me. I carry the guilt every day even though I know you have forgiven me. There was no fault, but it was just so wrong that your life had to be ended in that rice paddy. Pat Hanley Delta 69-70
To Charlie Company Marines that gave the ultimate sacrifice – We remember you….. We honor you….We thank you for your service. Thank you and Semper Fi
Jim, I wish you could be home and see the Marines from your platoon. After 46 years and 37 days, they still honor you. They still share stories, pictures, and memories of you. But most of all, they call you a leader of Marines. You would be proud of them as they are of you. THE FEW, THE PROUD. You guys. I’m so happy to be a part of these 1-7 Marines. Bob Witt
Richard Polley Miss seeing your great smile. I saw you as you were coming to 1/7. It was really sad news when I heard of your passing. When I got home I couldn’t make myself go see your Mom. I have always regretted that.
To the Marines and Corpsmen of 1/7, thank you for your service and sacrifice. I pray God enables me to raise my sons to be men willing and able to live for something greater than themselves as you have demonstrated. I will always remain……….. Semper Fidelis Stacy L. Taylor, Lieutenant Colonel, U. S. Marine Corps
L/Cpl. Dittmer ……… so full of life one moment, KIA the next breath of my life. I lived that dark night. You made the ultimate sacrifice. I now live to keep your memory alive in my heart and soul. L/Cpl. Paul Quattlebaum
Cpl. Marvin Gay: Your life was taken far to soon from this world. You left many loved ones behind at home. But you also left your brothers in the Corps. We will never forget you. We at Charlie Company 1/7 hope to continue your legacy, as well as those Marines of C 1/7 watch over us. May you rest in peace my brother. Semper Fidelis!
Dear Patrick Purdin (Corpsman) I think about your sacrifice in saving my life so many years ago. Frequently when I am doing something that makes me happy I stop to think you missed all things like this (reunion). It makes me realize how brave you were to leave a safe position to run out to try to save me. I thank God there are men like you. All I can say is thank you. God Bless you and God Bless the Marine Corps Aubry Hemingway
Pete and J.J., there is not a day that goes by that I do not think of you both! I wish that I had been with you on your last day on this earth. Perhaps you would still be with us today! See you both again soon! Bill
Sorry I couldn’t have been there for you…. To save you!!! Billy Ranes
For Cpl. Merral Landtry, Thank you for the gift of your Life, so we all could live ours as we chose. Not a day goes by that I don’t thank you for all we have and for your ultimate gift. Thank You, Cpl. S.Hickham
To My Brothers in Arms, Your selfless sacrifice has given a new generation Freedom! Your devotion to duty can never be questioned. Your integrity and honor are our strength. My almighty God, Bless you forever and add you names to his Honor Roll: We shall meet again The Few, The Proud. You Marines
Johnny Wayne Sitten and Joseph Peterlich There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of you. Until we meet again. Semper Fi Bill
B 1/7 Butler, Mullins, Schellam, You are gone but will stay forever young in my heart. Ogle
To K.V. Wheeler and all the other good men of C-1-7 in 1965-66. I do believe the God of the Bible will give you life again in his promised new earth. That is all we have to put our hopes in. Sgt. James A. Reeves C-1-7 1965-66
Thank you for your sacrifice and for sending my father-in-law home to do great things, not to mention my family and all I hold dear.
To Diaz, Henderson, Higgins, and Hamblett who sacrificed your young lives to save those Marines pinned down by sniper and machineguns on November 12, 1969. Delta Company 2nd Platoon Marines
Marines, Semper Fidelis, Thank you for paving the way for future Marines. SgtMaj. Dave Jobe
God Bless you as you rest peacefully. With gratitude for your sacrifice. Mr. & Mrs. Martin Ebersbach 1/7 Delta Company
Thank you for all you have done for me and our country. Thank you for helping get my husband home to me. I am so sorry you didn’t get to join (come home with) him.
John Dowd, I remember your name in each Mass I attend. Jim Nelson
Mouse, It happened again, I broke down when I heard your name along with Bates and Gay. You are forever young in my heart. Your smile will stay with me forever, that’s how I will recognize you in the forever! Tom Prater
Thank you for fighting for our freedom. You are not forgotten.
Lorne C. Kasdin C 1/7 Vietnam 67-68
To: Joe Wilk, I was the Corpsman that went on the roadsweep the DAY AFTER you were killed on that same roadsweep. One day, one day separated us from what happened to you and what could have happened to me. I got to live my life, but you are memorialized on “The Wall” in D.C. Doc Rini D-1-7 ’68-‘69
Richard (Ric) Polley You were so young, only in country two weeks when you gave your life. Back home in Ohio you were our hero, the local football field was name after you.
To those who sacrificed so much. To those of you who gave your full sacrifice in the battle in the “Arizona Territory”. All of 1/7 as well as a few from some of our other battalions and regiments fought valiantly those days. God Bless and Semper Fidelis!
Marines, who have gone ahead….. May you rest in peace, knowing your brothers are here: missing you, remembering you, and still loving you. Till you meet again. Deborah Kirbie
My fallen brothers of the 7th Marines and Corpsmen. May you now be with God as you are placed in front of the Golden Gates of Heaven Semper Fi Greg Pierce
Semper Fi! Your service and your loss of life are the highest tribute you could offer. Those of us who lived, Thank You.
Brothers Robinson and Raymond and Redman The last time I saw you was August 6th 1968, but I have never forgot any of you. I walk, wake, with thoughts of you. I will always be your brother. Russell Clover
5/14/16 It is an honor to serve your brothers – As we honored you today at the Memorial Service. I was thankful for your life – I see your brothers and how they miss you! Thank You Kathleen
If I could have saved you, I would have been honored to do so. Thank you so much for all you gave. Sherry Cook
Bernie, I wish I could surrender the rest of my life for your return. I have missed you all of these years! Pepper and I treasure the time we served together with you. Semper Fidelis!
To: Larry Looby 2/14/69 I know we made a pack to get in touch w/family if one of us were killed. I am so sorry I never contacted your wife or parents. Pls forgive me. Glen
My name is Sandy Leber. I wish I could welcome you home, and give you a big hug. But I can’t. Just know that you will never be forgotten, and you will always be loved and missed.
Brothers, I never met you. We never spoke. We did not huddle in a hole full of water in the cold. But I know you and what you stood for. Semper Fi!
My Dear Brothers we will always miss you; however, you all will be in my heart, amen! Cpl. Vanderbilt Evans Sr. 1/7 Charley Co.
It’s Incredible! I don’t know any of you, and don’t know any of those who have fallen, yet so much respect and honor for all of you. Thank you a million for your service. Hanny
Job well done weary Marines! Your country will forever be indebted to you. God Bless you and your family. Rest in Peace. Brenda Stamper May 2016
When I looked into your eyes wide open, I said you will be OK. Then the stretcher bearer looked up and said you were dead. Sorry! Wish we could have done more.
To Cpl. Jim From High School to Vietnam – I’m so sorry you didn’t make it back. I think of you often! Semper Fi Buddy
To all my brothers in all wars who made the ultimate sacrifice, may you rest in peace. God Bless you all. You will never be forgotten. Semper Fi! See you on the other side.
Thank you for serving, Thank you for keeping us free.
To Tom and “Lippy” Thanks for being both my Friend and Brother. I think of you often. Take care of “D.T.” until I can be with you. Bob Hat?
To all the Bravo 1/7 guys who kept the love of my life alive and in my arms – I feel so sad that you never had those 40 years of love.
Delverde, Buttler, Mullins, Robertson, and Shellam. I think of you often. You are forever young. You probably know more than us. But we will catch up to you eventually. You are missed and honored. Rest in Peace Skip Sullins
To those 566 gone but not forgotten: I thank you for your service. I thank you for your sacrifice in order for your brothers to come home. I honor you today and always………
Rest well, Marines, in the knowledge that your ultimate sacrifice was not in vain. Semper Fidelis, AL Lyon Sgt. Of Marines
OK boys here we are again. Another reunion and you’re still not here. However, I am a little closer to seeing you guys again……Marines will be together again – I miss you all. RJ
Thank you for your service. You will never be forgotten. Steven Hall
I know you are with us. I hope we conveyed how we feel. Honored to have served with you.
God Bless you all! Miss you Forever!
Our brothers, we will miss you all till we are again together. You are remembered in so many prayers. Semper Fidelis Cpl. Evans C-1-7
You saved my life, but I could no save yours. I ran Brown. I think of you every day. Ron Perry
To our fallen brothers; We wish you could be with us still! Semper Fidelis
Bless You Boys! As I look and I see these young men of today (active duty Marines) and think that we were so young ourselves. You will never be forgotten as our lives go on, and we have to grow old. You will never be forgotten. AL Lux U. S. Army (Vietnam Veteran)
Someday I will be among my fellow 1-7 Marines who guard the streets of Heaven.
Rest in Light, Peace, Joy I can only honor your memory with my thoughts, actions, and prayers.
Thank you for giving your all for my freedom. Karen McCreless
You were so young and so brave. I am so proud and so sad.
I don’t know your name yet you died for me.
2014
To the Marines and Corpsmen of 1/7 who did not come home. We still remember all of you and we will meet again. Semper Fi! Sgt. Blue 1/7 H&S 65-66
Never again will one generation of Veterans abandon another. Roland Mayhew
To the Marines and Corpsmen of the 1/7 here with us in spirit. Thank you for your sacrifice, for paving the way for future Marines and Corpsmen. Because of you, and your sacrifice – America can be free. Semper Fi!
God Bless our Heavenly Battalion.
God bless you for your sacrifice for our freedom. You will never be forgotten. Thank you so much. Violet Wong
I remember the day we lost you and I’ll never forget that day. I think of all of you each day. I believe that one day we will meet you at the big reunion up stairs.
I wish you were here with us today to celebrate a full and rewarding life. I pray you’ve found peace in a better place.
I was asked if I would serve in Vietnam again. I always answer as a fellow Marine Mike Tank said “How could I not, once I walked among heroes”, Sel Wong.
There for the grace of God goes I. Hopefully I made a difference in this life since then.
To My Marines, There isn’t a day go by that I do not think about you. Delverde, Randolph, and Perinotto were good Marines and best friends. You’re never forgotten. Semper Fi! Doc
Thank you gentlemen for your service and devotion to our country. Without you’re sacrifices we would all not have our freedom. So thank you and your families for all that you’ve done.
Thank you gentlemen for your hardcore, selfless dedication to the American people. As a combat line Corpsman my respect level is through the roof. Semper Fi! Doc Kirkpatrick 3/5 (Son of Doc Kirkpatrick 1/7).
To all my brothers who did not return. You have taken point, secure the area, we are coming. Elmer Sangster A 1/7 68-69.
Thanks you first and foremost. Your steadfast dedication to our great nation is, and will always be remembered and appreciated. As a young Marine, I am always grateful to carry on the traditions that you have bestowed on us as Marines. I will see you again brothers. Until then, Semper Fi and Thank You. Cpl Chischilly 1/7 & 3/5 Active Duty
I miss you brother. I think about the crazy things we did and I smile. I think about not having you around to share memories with and it saddens my heart.
LeRoy Palmer … Loved your smile, mouse! Jim Bates … I found Glenna and told her how much you loved her. It broke her heart, but she was thankful. Your Mom came to my house and the entire visit we talked about you. Lonnie Gay … Anytime I eat pound cake I think of your grandma’s pound cake we shared Christmas Eve. Tom Prater, Bravo 3 Plt. 1967-8
Tyrone Hill, I love you brother. Although we didn’t have a lot of time together, I will always remember the tasty cakes we got from home. Good time!! Until we’re together again. Semper Fi! J.C.
I am humbled to have spent the past 2 days with your brothers from 1/7. It is very evident that you are among the most genuine and dedicated Marines as you are remembered with unselfish praise and respect. I am a guest at your table and am honored to sit with such great men. Semper Fidelis. SgtMaj. Neil O’Connell USMC ‘77-‘12
We’re so proud of you all. You’re the best. We appreciate everything you have done for us and our country. God bless all of ya’ll and your family. Verlene Green
To my Fallen Brothers, I salute you in death as well as when you were alive. Marines are always alive they never die …… Keep the faith Marines
We will always love you and remember you as long as any of us are alive.
Just like the air we breathe, we sometimes take our freedom for granted. Ask someone on oxygen how precious air is! Ask a Veteran how precious our freedom is. Thank you for paying the price.
Marines and Corpsmen of First Battalion / 7th Marines … You stand the watch at the gates to heaven. If I pass through, I will render honors and join, once again, my shipmates! Doc Sorensen
Thank you all who sacrificed their lives for your brothers in arms and for freedom.
Thank you for your service and sacrifice – you did not die in vain and are thought of often ……….. Your brothers honor you!
We grow old and tired and weary, and you do not. We lived long and you did not ……. and we remember you
To a fallen Marine. How would the world be a better place if you were alive today?
I think of you every day! I’ll never forget you. We’ll be together always.
With the utmost respect for your service and sacrifice. Your Brothers guard your memory and reputation with honor and dignity. Semper Fidelis William R. Shaw, SgtMaj. Wounded Warrior Bn – West
Dear Marines, Thank you for the sacrifices that you made defending this country. I pray that you are at peace. May God Bless you and your families.
“I am gladden by your presence tonight – your sacrifice will never be forgotten” – Anonymous
Reunions are so special. Memorial services bring back memories of Marines/Corpsmen, brothers lost in a far away place called Vietnam. Because of them, I strive to live the best life I can. This makes their sacrifice worthwhile. I will forever remember you my brothers! Paul Quattlebaum
We honor your memory and always will.
God bless you. Semper Fi
Whenever we read the 566 names of the Marines who died with 1/7, I think “I feel so bad that those young men missed the chance to grow up and enjoy the great life we take for granted.” Bill U’Ren
To: John Gilliam and William Jennings “Never has a day gone by that I lost you in my thoughts and regrets” L/Cpl Ronnie Arts
We miss you, however you are in a better place and we will see you in the future … God Bless
I come to these events for fun, confession, absolution, and communion. It is always a reunion of brothers and sisters and a time of renewal of the soul.
Because of my wanting to make sure that there would eventually be a good remembrance of you because of how the American public treated us, I tried to always provide a fine example as a man and Marine. You made a good and humble man of me. Thank You.
Dear Fallen Marine … Rest assured, you will never be forgotten by those of us that knew you as a Marine. Sleep well. You are in our hearts.
Dear fallen soldier … Thank you for giving up your life for all of us. No words can ever say enough to thank you for your unselfishness and complete heroes. We praise you and hope you are in a wonderful place.
It was an honor to be here with 1/7 Marines and share their sacrifice with my brothers of a past generation. Semper Fi … Sgt. A. R. Clausen
Thank you for giving so the rest can continue the living that you would have done for us. Cpl. Michael Kirbie
1st of the 7th – Semper Fi! Well done, a great celebration of an awesome organization past present and future M. Turner LCol. Ret’d (LDO)
To: Russell Hevern … Russ, You were a fine Marine who served your country with the ultimate sacrifice. You were a skilled Marine war fighter who saved many of us. I so wish you could have enjoyed the freedoms you fought for with a long and full life in the U.S.A. You certainly deserved it, but it was not to be. I think often of you and what your life could have been. When I met your mother a few years ago she comforted me with her explanation that you died doing what you dreamed of doing. Serving your country as a Marine. She even signed a waiver so you could join before you were 18. I honor you today for your sacrifice. I visit you at the wall when I am in Washington. I will never forget you! Semper Fi John Wayne Heusner
We are honored to say Thank You for everything you did for us. You are in our thoughts and prayers every day.
To those who have sacrificed, for my father, gunny Jake Cadena, to all the men who humped those hills and carried their brothers and made the laughter and tears, the anger and fears an indelible part of the lives of these men in their twilight years and the men who did not have the opportunity to have those years know this: Our freedom, our lives, our families and our friends all have a debt that can never be paid and will never be forgotten. Thanks Dad, thanks to the 1/7, and the brothers left behind. Thank you Marines.
L/Cpl James Adrian Setter (KIA)and L/Cpl Steven Michael Carnahan (KIA). My father Cpl Dennis McIllwain fought by your side. Bled next to you, and felt your loss until the day he died. I know you are with him now on eternal slack time surrounded by your brothers and loved ones. Rest in peace. You are not forgotten. 3rd Platoon B Company
To the Corpsmen who went before, and the angels who brought mine home. Thank You.
The world is a more empty place since you left it.
It is always an honor tom be with those who served together and remember those we lost. They are our brothers forever and will be in our hearts until we are together again. Semper Fi Cpl Evans C-1-7
We thank you for keeping us safe. We miss you and love you. God rest your soul.
Fair winds and following seas. Sgt 1/6 98-05 SPC USANG
To those who didn’t come home. We are eternally grateful for your sacrifice. We would not have the freedom we have today without you. Your families will never be forgotten about and always taken care of. RIP Marines Semper Fi Brendan Kelly
Thank you for your courage and bravery for our country. It has not gone unnoticed. I appreciate your sacrifice and realize the freedom I have is because of you. Thank You!
Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice for our country. You are heroes and make us so very proud. There is a special place in Heaven for fallen Marines. God Bless You. The Kelly Family
Thank You! There are no other fitting words.
Thank you for your service. I appreciate everything you have done to protect our freedom.
Because you gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, we are grateful beyond what words can express.
May God bless and keep all my brother Marines until we all meet again. Pat Ellard C/Co.
Dear Sirs: Thank you for your last full measure of service to our country. I prayed today for your families. In Jesus name. Ryan W. Kelly, son of Col. James P. Kelly
When the hammer fell (TET 69), a lot of fellow Marines, including some of my troops were both WIA and KIA. All these years later, I still get depressed when I think about you. Howard Snowden
For many years I’ve heard about many of you, friends and comrads of my husband. Many of you didn’t make it back home. We are thinking of you tonight and though you may not be here with us in person you are here in our hearts and memories. You will never be forgotten.
Semper Fi! I won’t forget.
Spirits are with you always. You’ll never die.
Having paid the ultimate, you will never be forgotten. Semper Fi!
Brothers – It has been a long 47 years that you have been gone. But, you are NOT forgotten. Till we meet again. Semper Fi!
When we meet again I have lots of 33 beer. I miss you all old friends. You left me there and soon I will join you all. Charlie 4 call sign.
I would like to thank each and every Vet for all they did for our country. Thanks for all you gave.
We are a great bunch of Marines who look after each other in the Corp and out in the world. We are many, but to us we are one. Semper Fi Forever
My heart is with ALL of you every day, every hour. We will never forget your sacrifices. A lot of you I knew personally and will never forget you. John Hartman B 1/7 67-68.
If it wasn’t for the brave Marines we wouldn’t have been here today. Thanks for your hard work and sacrifice to our country.
I’m sorry Baune. I tried my best.
You served with brother L/Cpl. Dan Foley. RTO Rifleman w/H&S Co. 68-69. He spent quite a bit of time with Delta Co. Maybe you helped him get home to us. Thanks for doing that and Thanks for your service. Semper Fi. You will always be remembered.
We miss you, wish that you were here with us. We meet every two years to remember our fallen and to celebrate life. UNK
We would love you to be here to share with your Marine friends, who think about you and remember you always at reunions, dedication of plaques. The love, memories, and deep commitment they have for you will continue until they all will be together forever.
We are here to enjoy the company of our comrades and yours because of your supreme sacrifice. You will never age as we have, but will remain forever young. We must do our best to live up to your sacrifice by living honorably and well in your place here on earth until we are all reunited in peace in heaven. As a poet once put it – “and when he dies and goes to heaven to Saint Peter he will say, one more Marine reporting Sir, I’ve spent my time in hell”.
Brothers your sacrifice will never be forgotten. When things get rough I think of you and find the strength to carry on. Dan Foley 1/7 68-69 H&S Forward Air Control.
Pete Ulrickson and Lt. James Witt will always be in my heart and thoughts. May God watch over your families until you meet them again up yonder. Thank you for your sacrifice. Poke
To Huber, McKnight, Lippy, Ken, Paul Wish you could be here. I remember how we survived and over took the enemy together – God Bless You are with the great DI in the sky. Kelly and Paul Although we were in different units, we grew up together. God Bless you homies Spooner 2014
Thanks for the sacrifice. Cpl. Mark R. Felts
And now unto him. That is able to keep us in his care from here to eternity. We give Thanks for his Sacrifices and preservation even unto Death. C. Jenkins C-1-7 64-66
Our Warriors has served our country with distinction and loyalty and honor. The list is long, our memories run deep, and will never forget them. This has been touching and heart warming experience to attend the 2014 1/7 reunion. May the Lord bless the families of our brothers that did not return. Dave (Kanak) Kaahaaina Bravo Co. 1/7 Hill #10 67,68-69
Your great and ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten. You were born into the brotherhood of Marines and gave your lives for your fellow Marines, all good, and that will always be in our memory. Semper Fi, Steven Elk A Co. 65-66
God bless you always. We are free because of you!! LtCol. H. “Lefty” Gonzalez USMC (Ret) A 1/7 1965-1966
Thanks for your sacrifice! Your Country is stronger for it. God Bless you all. Guard Heaven’s Streets!
Thank you from the greatest sacrifice you made for us. We ish you could be here to feel the gratitude of all that are present.
Thanks for your life, given for the sake of all the rest of us. I trust the Lord brought you in to Comfort, Light, and Peace. We cannot pay the debt we owe you, we can only honor it. And we look forward to seeing you again, on the Other Side.
You will always be remembered in our hearts and in our minds. Thank you for the sacrifice you have given so others will live in freedom.
Like you I also went to Vietnam. But, unlike I was one of the lucky ones who made it back. I wish you could have come home with me. Just know this, I’m so sorry you suffered the ultimate sacrifice. You were only doing your job, what you were asked to do. It was not fair or right. Please rest in peace. It’s only a matter of time. Someday I’ll join you and both you and I will be at peace for all eternity.
No better love than a man who will give his life for his friend.
No words can express the gratitude this great country has for your sacrifice and undying devotion to each American that you protected from tyranny and for our individual freedom. Thank you with my whold heart for protecting us. RIP! Semper Fi! Brenda S. Stamper
SSgt. Jim Brewer, I miss ya buddy
To All 1/7 Marines that we lost in Vietnam. We are with you tonight in spirit and we will never forget any of you. Lanny S. C Co. 1/7 65-66
To all of my brothers who was with me from Nov 67 to Dec 68 on 55, 10, 22,37 and CAP Unit. I thank all of you who help me through. My thanks to all who did not make it back. Thank you for your sacrifice and God Bless All of you. SSgt. Ulysses Garner
First Team Vietnam 2014 Reunion. We are here to not let your memory be forgotten. This is to keep your memory alive, because of your sacrifice.
Thank you. I wish you were here
God Bless you and U.S.A.
Hey Ted – I’ve got some great fishing spots we need to hit. Been waitin for you!
To all of my brothers, you have certainly taught us that freedom isn’t free. Thanks for your ultimate sacrifice.
So great, so brave, so sad
Your sacrifices can’t even begin to let you know how we all feel knowing that there’s a part of OUR hymn telling us where we’ll all meet again. We pray for you and rejoice in the fact we will be together again. Semper Fi Fred Hawthorne
These memories and remembrances are the best. I wasn’t the best, I wasn’t the worst, but I was one. I often didn’t do enough. Maybe I could have done more. Allen Heckart MSgt. USMC Ret’d I remember everyday!
If you were here I would hug you with all my heart! Thank you for giving me and my family our freedom of choice in this great country. Please hug all our brothers and sisters that sit with you in Heaven. Hug all those that got to Heaven before you – the great line of our fore fathers that gave is this wonderful blessed life. God Bless you and God Bless America
No greater love than for those beside us in combat. No greater love of our fellows
Thank you for your service. I know you’re in Heaven with God and your’re Angels. Your Death is not in vain.
Until we meet again in a better place than Nam was !! Until then.
I don’t know why I am sitting at this banquet and not having my name read instead. Only God knows why. But I think about all you guys all the time. Semper Fi. C 1/7 3rd Squad All you guys are sacred to me.
To All our 1/7 guys who did not get to live your lives as I have done – I have thought of you many times in the last 46 years – and still today in 2014, I think about ya’ll all the time. I wish I could take your places and let you enjoy the life I have had – Vietnam in 67-68 will always be the most important times of my life, knowing Marines like All of you. Jasson, Wright, and Curtis, you are the Marines I served with and died with. Semper Fi – C 1/7 RVN 12/67 -2/68
“He who binds to himself a joy does the winged life destroy, but he who kisses the bird as it flies lives in Eternities Sunrise” William Blake Ther is no joy on earth that approaches having known you Marine! M. Brewer
Let’s have a drink and think of those good days!
You didn’t know what was going to happen, but you knew it could and continued on. That is not all it takes to be honorable, but it is difficult to define honor without it, or you.
You and your families are always in our thoughts and prayers everyday. Thank you for your sacrifice. Mary Ellard
You fought a good fight - You kept the faith - you were ready for anything and everything - you ran all and finished the course. “Semper Fi”
Having the opportunity to meet Colonel Kelly again was fantastic and having Delta Company Marines from 1965-66 RVN present a Delta Company 1/7 65-66 Challenge coin to Colonel Kelly is beyond words. Semper Fi Cpl. Yohn
My brother is now 65 y/o. He enlisted in the Corp at age 18 and went to Vietnam. I see his scares and feel his wounds to this day – however, I see a man of courage and a family that he is forever a part of that being a Marine has given him. I am forever grateful and appreciative of my brothers – who fought and died for our beautiful country. In God I trust. Thank you for your service!! You are an amazing group of men!
To those men of 1/7 who fought and died in unknown places that only their comrades could know of. An Hoa, Hills 10, 37, 22, 55, Bah Tan, Bo Ban. You will forever live in our hearts and minds as if it was only yesterday. Semper Fi David Robinson C-1-7 68 1st Plt.
My Brothers: I think of each and every one of you, from what ever year, as my Brothers!
GySgt. Holley, Sgt. May, Sgt. Rankel, Sgt. Caskey, Cpl. Johnson, LCpl Greer, Cpl. Harris, Cpl. Marler, Doc Ortega, Doc Woods, LCpl. Hernandez I will never forget you.
It’s a great blessing to have so many brave men that are willing to put their lives on the line for our freedom.
Delta 1/7 Brothers, since our last reunion 2 years ago we have sent some of our brothers to help you hold the high ground, “God Bless” and hold the flag high, we’ll all be a T.O. Company again someday. Semper Fi Sgt. Vanderloo
To L/Cpl Virgil Barton: Your love for surfing and your premonition of things to come, will forever be imbedded in my mind and heart forever. Thank you for confiding in me as your team leader in Okinawa. It was my honor to have served with someone who had been in country already. May you continue to ride the waves in Heaven. Sgt. Sal Olivas
R.I.P. You’re Angels from above watching over all of us. You’re always remembered in our reunions. You’re never forgotten. “God id Good” All the time. Pat Patterson
There is is nothing I can say or do to express my love for you or thanks to you. I can only live as a Marine proud and true to the Corp. Curtis
To David Lanning – I am sorry that we let you go on that first op. You only had 5 days in country. We wish that you were still with us. SKI
I just want to say how much you’ve been missed. You’d be surprised how things have changed since you’ve been gone. No more hippies, but peace signs are back in style. All of us have gotten older, hopefully wiser. You’d be proud to know, it’s because of you and all the Vietnam vets, our nation has learned a valuable lesson. You see when you guys came back, the Vietnam vets were treated pretty badly (I won’t go into detail because I don’t want to hurt your feelings) but, the Nam vets showed the country that the guys who fought were the boys that lived next door, the ones they saw grow up in the neighborhood. Now, the country sees the big mistake they made. Now when the vets (Iraq – Afghanistan, etc.) come home, it’s with honor from all. Thank you for your service, thank you for your sacrifice. We miss you.
What would I say to an American Hero? I would thank him for giving us our freedom so we can sleep well at night. Knowing they probably can’t sleep at all. My brother died in 9-11-1. I believe he died in peace, and I also believe his nightmares took him away from us. He rests in peace in Heaven now with all the heroes, all his brothers in arms. He was only 55. Now I’m married to a wonderful Marine – 42 years. Our daughter is in the Navy–Sea-Bees 14 yrs. I would like to hug and hold them and say thank you, I love you. Thanks for your protection. I’m sorry for your families loss, we all will meet again. Love Gail Trevino
Marines, Corpsmen, if I could surrender my life for you tonight and forever after, you would return to have a chance to lead a wonderful life forever.
We miss you and know you are watching over us. Thank you for your service to our country. We will never forget you. Semper Fi
Patrick Purdin – Corpsman I only met you in the last few minutes of your life as you worked to save my life as I laid wounded on the ground. I can only say thank you for your sacrifice. To me you are a true hero. I look forward to the day we will meet again and I can say “Thank You” again. Robert Oatis Jones – We were only friends for a short period until I was wounded. You made me and Fred laugh and get through the pressures of Nam. I wish I could have been there to have tried to save you. I miss you!! Aubrey Hemingway
Gary D. Tate – I love you and miss you. I talk with you often, but tonight I felt a closeness reminiscent of our days in Vietnam. I hope to place my hand upon your shoulder once again. I hope to talk with you and be reassured that, on that fateful day, my hand and my voice brought comfort as you lingered there, on foreign soil, waiting to leave this world. Don
L/Cpl Moses There is not a day that goes by I don’t think of you. I know you have found peace up there. Just save me some room. I’m coming soon.
Jarvas – I want to thank you for all you taught me about the bush in the time we had together. I am so so sorry that I could not do more when you were hit. Doc Holland
My brothers from A-C0. 1st BN 7th Marines Liebhaber, Brown, Baurle, Martin, Leighton, McDaniels, Hoagland, Gilmore, Doc Flanagan and the others whom I had the privilege to have fought alongside in Vietnam. You will forever live in my heart. I think of you every day. Until we meet again Semper Fidelis Hermandos Orlando “Ricani” Ramirez 3rd Herd Guns
This is one of the biggest surprises I have had the privilege of being associated with in my life. The memories involved are ever lasting and something that will remain with me forever. This association has given me the opportunity to relive the friendship of the Marines I lived with for thirteen months. Thanks again to the association. RS
Being a Vietnam Vet, I feel guilty that I am not with you in Heaven. Thank you for your service to our country and your extreme sacrifice.
We know how much your loved ones miss you all. We will always remember your sacrifices. To Doc Edge we were the best of friends from when we met in Sept. 1967. I think of you every day. God Bless you and your family. Paul Joseph Edge KIA Jan. 30, 1968
Dear Brothers of 1/7 “I tried my best” Bob “Doc” Joyce C-1-7
To Fallen 1/7 Brothers – You fought and died with honor. Your bravery and strength is not forgotten. We honor your devotion to the Corps and your country. Steven Mapel C 1/7 1968 1969
To Dave Doboz, Glen Willis and all those we lost. They are not forgotten – may we, as Lincoln said, carry on their task, remembering that freedom is never free.
Thank you Terry Aldridge for calling. I had no idea these took place and am honored 1/7 took time to find me. Although I’ve not run across a few men I wanted to reconnect with – I’ve run across a great group of old friends. Thank You
God bless your families for the ultimate sacrifice they bore. Your country is proud of you.
Dearest Marine/Corpsman – I am a mother and if I could I would wrap you in my arms and hold you just as your own mother would if she could. I would comfort you, tell you, how much I love and miss you every minute of every day. And I would ask the good Lord to watch over you. Cathleen Joyce
You men served great, with honor and courage. May you rest in peace. Lorne C. Kasdin C 1/7 1967-1968
May God Bless you, and keep you. You are loved and missed, but we will meet again. Love and God Blessing TLC
Bill Gibbs, Tommy Callahan, Augie Caldwell, Sgt. Brewer, Paul Etter We’ll meet someday again Bob “Rich” Richard
When I think of the lives lost and given during the Vietnam War, I am humbled. Humbled by the fact that they exemplified the life of Christ. Christ gave His life so that we may be forgiven and live eternally. These men and women freely gave their lives to give us freedom. I am forever in their debt as I am to my Lord. – Thank you for the cost that you paid for me and those who survived and live on. Judy Nelson wife of Sgt. John (Fred) Nelson
My heart is full of gratitude for your service and your supreme sacrifice. Some among you were fellow Marines with my husband, and he has told me of your bravery and dedication. I thank you.
Marines – Thank you for everything you do and did. You guys are the best. You are my heroes. B. Gilbertson Vietnam 65 C-1-7
In my heart you always will be with me. In my mind you have and will never leave. You will never be alone. God will reward you forever. We’ll see again. LL
God Bless your souls. Semper Fi. We will all be together again. C-1-7
To all my 1/7 brothers that were KIA’d so very long ago,... You were, are, and will always be so terribly missed.... To those of you that I knew well, you’ve never really left me. Everyday of my life I find some time to remember your names, and to remember your smiles. Love, Mac
You are truly missed, but you will never be forgotten. You will be in my heart until the day I join you. I’ll tell you about my children and grand kids, for if it not for you keeping me safe in Vietnam I would never have enjoyed them. Thank you – Semper Fi
I thank our gracious God every day of my life for the fallen who died so that we can be free to carry on this tradition. I feel I owe my life and breath the past 46 years to their ultimate sacrifice. Thank you, Fallen Warriors, for your contribution to our freedom in this great country of ours. We cherish your memory and legacy. John Tunnell Suicide Charley 1/7 67-68
My dearest Eddie – You were my best friend and first scout/sniper team mate. You were taken from us in Feb 67, as the first USMC Scout/Sniper KIA in the Vietnam War. You know I have visited your grave many times. I left you a scout/sniper challenge coin which I put deep into the soil. I have been close to your family since and await the day we are together again. I will always be your loving Marine Corps Brother, and look forward to the day our souls are reunited again. Your Loving Team Mate Tom “Moose” Ferran BTW.... Eddie, the Marine Corps actually made me an officer. That’s proof shit really happens! S/F
Brothers – We gave all we had. You gave all you would ever have. See you soon
God Bless all Marines, past, present and future!!
To the guys in Charlie Co. 1965-66-who, gave their lives. You and your family are in our prayers today and forever. Sgt. John (Freddy) Nelson
2014
To the Marines and Corpsmen of 1/7 who did not come home. We still remember all of you and we will meet again. Semper Fi! Sgt. Blue 1/7 H&S 65-66
Never again will one generation of Veterans abandon another. Roland Mayhew
To the Marines and Corpsmen of the 1/7 here with us in spirit. Thank you for your sacrifice, for paving the way for future Marines and Corpsmen. Because of you, and your sacrifice – America can be free. Semper Fi!
God Bless our Heavenly Battalion.
God bless you for your sacrifice for our freedom. You will never be forgotten. Thank you so much. Violet Wong
I remember the day we lost you and I’ll never forget that day. I think of all of you each day. I believe that one day we will meet you at the big reunion up stairs.
I wish you were here with us today to celebrate a full and rewarding life. I pray you’ve found peace in a better place.
I was asked if I would serve in Vietnam again. I always answer as a fellow Marine Mike Tank said “How could I not, once I walked among heroes”, Sel Wong.
There for the grace of God goes I. Hopefully I made a difference in this life since then.
To My Marines, There isn’t a day go by that I do not think about you. Delverde, Randolph, and Perinotto were good Marines and best friends. You’re never forgotten. Semper Fi! Doc
Thank you gentlemen for your service and devotion to our country. Without you’re sacrifices we would all not have our freedom. So thank you and your families for all that you’ve done.
Thank you gentlemen for your hardcore, selfless dedication to the American people. As a combat line Corpsman my respect level is through the roof. Semper Fi! Doc Kirkpatrick 3/5 (Son of Doc Kirkpatrick 1/7).
To all my brothers who did not return. You have taken point, secure the area, we are coming. Elmer Sangster A 1/7 68-69.
Thanks you first and foremost. Your steadfast dedication to our great nation is, and will always be remembered and appreciated. As a young Marine, I am always grateful to carry on the traditions that you have bestowed on us as Marines. I will see you again brothers. Until then, Semper Fi and Thank You. Cpl Chischilly 1/7 & 3/5 Active Duty
I miss you brother. I think about the crazy things we did and I smile. I think about not having you around to share memories with and it saddens my heart.
LeRoy Palmer … Loved your smile, mouse! Jim Bates … I found Glenna and told her how much you loved her. It broke her heart, but she was thankful. Your Mom came to my house and the entire visit we talked about you. Lonnie Gay … Anytime I eat pound cake I think of your grandma’s pound cake we shared Christmas Eve. Tom Prater, Bravo 3 Plt. 1967-8
Tyrone Hill, I love you brother. Although we didn’t have a lot of time together, I will always remember the tasty cakes we got from home. Good time!! Until we’re together again. Semper Fi! J.C.
I am humbled to have spent the past 2 days with your brothers from 1/7. It is very evident that you are among the most genuine and dedicated Marines as you are remembered with unselfish praise and respect. I am a guest at your table and am honored to sit with such great men. Semper Fidelis. SgtMaj. Neil O’Connell USMC ‘77-‘12
We’re so proud of you all. You’re the best. We appreciate everything you have done for us and our country. God bless all of ya’ll and your family. Verlene Green
To my Fallen Brothers, I salute you in death as well as when you were alive. Marines are always alive they never die …… Keep the faith Marines
We will always love you and remember you as long as any of us are alive.
Just like the air we breathe, we sometimes take our freedom for granted. Ask someone on oxygen how precious air is! Ask a Veteran how precious our freedom is. Thank you for paying the price.
Marines and Corpsmen of First Battalion / 7th Marines … You stand the watch at the gates to heaven. If I pass through, I will render honors and join, once again, my shipmates! Doc Sorensen
Thank you all who sacrificed their lives for your brothers in arms and for freedom.
Thank you for your service and sacrifice – you did not die in vain and are thought of often ……….. Your brothers honor you!
We grow old and tired and weary, and you do not. We lived long and you did not ……. and we remember you
To a fallen Marine. How would the world be a better place if you were alive today?
I think of you every day! I’ll never forget you. We’ll be together always.
With the utmost respect for your service and sacrifice. Your Brothers guard your memory and reputation with honor and dignity. Semper Fidelis William R. Shaw, SgtMaj. Wounded Warrior Bn – West
Dear Marines, Thank you for the sacrifices that you made defending this country. I pray that you are at peace. May God Bless you and your families.
“I am gladden by your presence tonight – your sacrifice will never be forgotten” – Anonymous
Reunions are so special. Memorial services bring back memories of Marines/Corpsmen, brothers lost in a far away place called Vietnam. Because of them, I strive to live the best life I can. This makes their sacrifice worthwhile. I will forever remember you my brothers! Paul Quattlebaum
We honor your memory and always will.
God bless you. Semper Fi
Whenever we read the 566 names of the Marines who died with 1/7, I think “I feel so bad that those young men missed the chance to grow up and enjoy the great life we take for granted.” Bill U’Ren
To: John Gilliam and William Jennings “Never has a day gone by that I lost you in my thoughts and regrets” L/Cpl Ronnie Arts
We miss you, however you are in a better place and we will see you in the future … God Bless
I come to these events for fun, confession, absolution, and communion. It is always a reunion of brothers and sisters and a time of renewal of the soul.
Because of my wanting to make sure that there would eventually be a good remembrance of you because of how the American public treated us, I tried to always provide a fine example as a man and Marine. You made a good and humble man of me. Thank You.
Dear Fallen Marine … Rest assured, you will never be forgotten by those of us that knew you as a Marine. Sleep well. You are in our hearts.
Dear fallen soldier … Thank you for giving up your life for all of us. No words can ever say enough to thank you for your unselfishness and complete heroes. We praise you and hope you are in a wonderful place.
It was an honor to be here with 1/7 Marines and share their sacrifice with my brothers of a past generation. Semper Fi … Sgt. A. R. Clausen
Thank you for giving so the rest can continue the living that you would have done for us. Cpl. Michael Kirbie
1st of the 7th – Semper Fi! Well done, a great celebration of an awesome organization past present and future M. Turner LCol. Ret’d (LDO)
To: Russell Hevern … Russ, You were a fine Marine who served your country with the ultimate sacrifice. You were a skilled Marine war fighter who saved many of us. I so wish you could have enjoyed the freedoms you fought for with a long and full life in the U.S.A. You certainly deserved it, but it was not to be. I think often of you and what your life could have been. When I met your mother a few years ago she comforted me with her explanation that you died doing what you dreamed of doing. Serving your country as a Marine. She even signed a waiver so you could join before you were 18. I honor you today for your sacrifice. I visit you at the wall when I am in Washington. I will never forget you! Semper Fi John Wayne Heusner
We are honored to say Thank You for everything you did for us. You are in our thoughts and prayers every day.
To those who have sacrificed, for my father, gunny Jake Cadena, to all the men who humped those hills and carried their brothers and made the laughter and tears, the anger and fears an indelible part of the lives of these men in their twilight years and the men who did not have the opportunity to have those years know this: Our freedom, our lives, our families and our friends all have a debt that can never be paid and will never be forgotten. Thanks Dad, thanks to the 1/7, and the brothers left behind. Thank you Marines.
L/Cpl James Adrian Setter (KIA)and L/Cpl Steven Michael Carnahan (KIA). My father Cpl Dennis McIllwain fought by your side. Bled next to you, and felt your loss until the day he died. I know you are with him now on eternal slack time surrounded by your brothers and loved ones. Rest in peace. You are not forgotten. 3rd Platoon B Company
To the Corpsmen who went before, and the angels who brought mine home. Thank You.
The world is a more empty place since you left it.
It is always an honor tom be with those who served together and remember those we lost. They are our brothers forever and will be in our hearts until we are together again. Semper Fi Cpl Evans C-1-7
We thank you for keeping us safe. We miss you and love you. God rest your soul.
Fair winds and following seas. Sgt 1/6 98-05 SPC USANG
To those who didn’t come home. We are eternally grateful for your sacrifice. We would not have the freedom we have today without you. Your families will never be forgotten about and always taken care of. RIP Marines Semper Fi Brendan Kelly
Thank you for your courage and bravery for our country. It has not gone unnoticed. I appreciate your sacrifice and realize the freedom I have is because of you. Thank You!
Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice for our country. You are heroes and make us so very proud. There is a special place in Heaven for fallen Marines. God Bless You. The Kelly Family
Thank You! There are no other fitting words.
Thank you for your service. I appreciate everything you have done to protect our freedom.
Because you gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, we are grateful beyond what words can express.
May God bless and keep all my brother Marines until we all meet again. Pat Ellard C/Co.
Dear Sirs: Thank you for your last full measure of service to our country. I prayed today for your families. In Jesus name. Ryan W. Kelly, son of Col. James P. Kelly
When the hammer fell (TET 69), a lot of fellow Marines, including some of my troops were both WIA and KIA. All these years later, I still get depressed when I think about you. Howard Snowden
For many years I’ve heard about many of you, friends and comrads of my husband. Many of you didn’t make it back home. We are thinking of you tonight and though you may not be here with us in person you are here in our hearts and memories. You will never be forgotten.
Semper Fi! I won’t forget.
Spirits are with you always. You’ll never die.
Having paid the ultimate, you will never be forgotten. Semper Fi!
Brothers – It has been a long 47 years that you have been gone. But, you are NOT forgotten. Till we meet again. Semper Fi!
When we meet again I have lots of 33 beer. I miss you all old friends. You left me there and soon I will join you all. Charlie 4 call sign.
I would like to thank each and every Vet for all they did for our country. Thanks for all you gave.
We are a great bunch of Marines who look after each other in the Corp and out in the world. We are many, but to us we are one. Semper Fi Forever
My heart is with ALL of you every day, every hour. We will never forget your sacrifices. A lot of you I knew personally and will never forget you. John Hartman B 1/7 67-68.
If it wasn’t for the brave Marines we wouldn’t have been here today. Thanks for your hard work and sacrifice to our country.
I’m sorry Baune. I tried my best.
You served with brother L/Cpl. Dan Foley. RTO Rifleman w/H&S Co. 68-69. He spent quite a bit of time with Delta Co. Maybe you helped him get home to us. Thanks for doing that and Thanks for your service. Semper Fi. You will always be remembered.
We miss you, wish that you were here with us. We meet every two years to remember our fallen and to celebrate life. UNK
We would love you to be here to share with your Marine friends, who think about you and remember you always at reunions, dedication of plaques. The love, memories, and deep commitment they have for you will continue until they all will be together forever.
We are here to enjoy the company of our comrades and yours because of your supreme sacrifice. You will never age as we have, but will remain forever young. We must do our best to live up to your sacrifice by living honorably and well in your place here on earth until we are all reunited in peace in heaven. As a poet once put it – “and when he dies and goes to heaven to Saint Peter he will say, one more Marine reporting Sir, I’ve spent my time in hell”.
Brothers your sacrifice will never be forgotten. When things get rough I think of you and find the strength to carry on. Dan Foley 1/7 68-69 H&S Forward Air Control.
Pete Ulrickson and Lt. James Witt will always be in my heart and thoughts. May God watch over your families until you meet them again up yonder. Thank you for your sacrifice. Poke
To Huber, McKnight, Lippy, Ken, Paul Wish you could be here. I remember how we survived and over took the enemy together – God Bless You are with the great DI in the sky. Kelly and Paul Although we were in different units, we grew up together. God Bless you homies Spooner 2014
Thanks for the sacrifice. Cpl. Mark R. Felts
And now unto him. That is able to keep us in his care from here to eternity. We give Thanks for his Sacrifices and preservation even unto Death. C. Jenkins C-1-7 64-66
Our Warriors has served our country with distinction and loyalty and honor. The list is long, our memories run deep, and will never forget them. This has been touching and heart warming experience to attend the 2014 1/7 reunion. May the Lord bless the families of our brothers that did not return. Dave (Kanak) Kaahaaina Bravo Co. 1/7 Hill #10 67,68-69
Your great and ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten. You were born into the brotherhood of Marines and gave your lives for your fellow Marines, all good, and that will always be in our memory. Semper Fi, Steven Elk A Co. 65-66
God bless you always. We are free because of you!! LtCol. H. “Lefty” Gonzalez USMC (Ret) A 1/7 1965-1966
Thanks for your sacrifice! Your Country is stronger for it. God Bless you all. Guard Heaven’s Streets!
Thank you from the greatest sacrifice you made for us. We ish you could be here to feel the gratitude of all that are present.
Thanks for your life, given for the sake of all the rest of us. I trust the Lord brought you in to Comfort, Light, and Peace. We cannot pay the debt we owe you, we can only honor it. And we look forward to seeing you again, on the Other Side.
You will always be remembered in our hearts and in our minds. Thank you for the sacrifice you have given so others will live in freedom.
Like you I also went to Vietnam. But, unlike I was one of the lucky ones who made it back. I wish you could have come home with me. Just know this, I’m so sorry you suffered the ultimate sacrifice. You were only doing your job, what you were asked to do. It was not fair or right. Please rest in peace. It’s only a matter of time. Someday I’ll join you and both you and I will be at peace for all eternity.
No better love than a man who will give his life for his friend.
No words can express the gratitude this great country has for your sacrifice and undying devotion to each American that you protected from tyranny and for our individual freedom. Thank you with my whold heart for protecting us. RIP! Semper Fi! Brenda S. Stamper
SSgt. Jim Brewer, I miss ya buddy
To All 1/7 Marines that we lost in Vietnam. We are with you tonight in spirit and we will never forget any of you. Lanny S. C Co. 1/7 65-66
To all of my brothers who was with me from Nov 67 to Dec 68 on 55, 10, 22,37 and CAP Unit. I thank all of you who help me through. My thanks to all who did not make it back. Thank you for your sacrifice and God Bless All of you. SSgt. Ulysses Garner
First Team Vietnam 2014 Reunion. We are here to not let your memory be forgotten. This is to keep your memory alive, because of your sacrifice.
Thank you. I wish you were here
God Bless you and U.S.A.
Hey Ted – I’ve got some great fishing spots we need to hit. Been waitin for you!
To all of my brothers, you have certainly taught us that freedom isn’t free. Thanks for your ultimate sacrifice.
So great, so brave, so sad
Your sacrifices can’t even begin to let you know how we all feel knowing that there’s a part of OUR hymn telling us where we’ll all meet again. We pray for you and rejoice in the fact we will be together again. Semper Fi Fred Hawthorne
These memories and remembrances are the best. I wasn’t the best, I wasn’t the worst, but I was one. I often didn’t do enough. Maybe I could have done more. Allen Heckart MSgt. USMC Ret’d I remember everyday!
If you were here I would hug you with all my heart! Thank you for giving me and my family our freedom of choice in this great country. Please hug all our brothers and sisters that sit with you in Heaven. Hug all those that got to Heaven before you – the great line of our fore fathers that gave is this wonderful blessed life. God Bless you and God Bless America
No greater love than for those beside us in combat. No greater love of our fellows
Thank you for your service. I know you’re in Heaven with God and your’re Angels. Your Death is not in vain.
Until we meet again in a better place than Nam was !! Until then.
I don’t know why I am sitting at this banquet and not having my name read instead. Only God knows why. But I think about all you guys all the time. Semper Fi. C 1/7 3rd Squad All you guys are sacred to me.
To All our 1/7 guys who did not get to live your lives as I have done – I have thought of you many times in the last 46 years – and still today in 2014, I think about ya’ll all the time. I wish I could take your places and let you enjoy the life I have had – Vietnam in 67-68 will always be the most important times of my life, knowing Marines like All of you. Jasson, Wright, and Curtis, you are the Marines I served with and died with. Semper Fi – C 1/7 RVN 12/67 -2/68
“He who binds to himself a joy does the winged life destroy, but he who kisses the bird as it flies lives in Eternities Sunrise” William Blake Ther is no joy on earth that approaches having known you Marine! M. Brewer
Let’s have a drink and think of those good days!
You didn’t know what was going to happen, but you knew it could and continued on. That is not all it takes to be honorable, but it is difficult to define honor without it, or you.
You and your families are always in our thoughts and prayers everyday. Thank you for your sacrifice. Mary Ellard
You fought a good fight - You kept the faith - you were ready for anything and everything - you ran all and finished the course. “Semper Fi”
Having the opportunity to meet Colonel Kelly again was fantastic and having Delta Company Marines from 1965-66 RVN present a Delta Company 1/7 65-66 Challenge coin to Colonel Kelly is beyond words. Semper Fi Cpl. Yohn
My brother is now 65 y/o. He enlisted in the Corp at age 18 and went to Vietnam. I see his scares and feel his wounds to this day – however, I see a man of courage and a family that he is forever a part of that being a Marine has given him. I am forever grateful and appreciative of my brothers – who fought and died for our beautiful country. In God I trust. Thank you for your service!! You are an amazing group of men!
To those men of 1/7 who fought and died in unknown places that only their comrades could know of. An Hoa, Hills 10, 37, 22, 55, Bah Tan, Bo Ban. You will forever live in our hearts and minds as if it was only yesterday. Semper Fi David Robinson C-1-7 68 1st Plt.
My Brothers: I think of each and every one of you, from what ever year, as my Brothers!
GySgt. Holley, Sgt. May, Sgt. Rankel, Sgt. Caskey, Cpl. Johnson, LCpl Greer, Cpl. Harris, Cpl. Marler, Doc Ortega, Doc Woods, LCpl. Hernandez I will never forget you.
It’s a great blessing to have so many brave men that are willing to put their lives on the line for our freedom.
Delta 1/7 Brothers, since our last reunion 2 years ago we have sent some of our brothers to help you hold the high ground, “God Bless” and hold the flag high, we’ll all be a T.O. Company again someday. Semper Fi Sgt. Vanderloo
To L/Cpl Virgil Barton: Your love for surfing and your premonition of things to come, will forever be imbedded in my mind and heart forever. Thank you for confiding in me as your team leader in Okinawa. It was my honor to have served with someone who had been in country already. May you continue to ride the waves in Heaven. Sgt. Sal Olivas
R.I.P. You’re Angels from above watching over all of us. You’re always remembered in our reunions. You’re never forgotten. “God id Good” All the time. Pat Patterson
There is is nothing I can say or do to express my love for you or thanks to you. I can only live as a Marine proud and true to the Corp. Curtis
To David Lanning – I am sorry that we let you go on that first op. You only had 5 days in country. We wish that you were still with us. SKI
I just want to say how much you’ve been missed. You’d be surprised how things have changed since you’ve been gone. No more hippies, but peace signs are back in style. All of us have gotten older, hopefully wiser. You’d be proud to know, it’s because of you and all the Vietnam vets, our nation has learned a valuable lesson. You see when you guys came back, the Vietnam vets were treated pretty badly (I won’t go into detail because I don’t want to hurt your feelings) but, the Nam vets showed the country that the guys who fought were the boys that lived next door, the ones they saw grow up in the neighborhood. Now, the country sees the big mistake they made. Now when the vets (Iraq – Afghanistan, etc.) come home, it’s with honor from all. Thank you for your service, thank you for your sacrifice. We miss you.
What would I say to an American Hero? I would thank him for giving us our freedom so we can sleep well at night. Knowing they probably can’t sleep at all. My brother died in 9-11-1. I believe he died in peace, and I also believe his nightmares took him away from us. He rests in peace in Heaven now with all the heroes, all his brothers in arms. He was only 55. Now I’m married to a wonderful Marine – 42 years. Our daughter is in the Navy–Sea-Bees 14 yrs. I would like to hug and hold them and say thank you, I love you. Thanks for your protection. I’m sorry for your families loss, we all will meet again. Love Gail Trevino
Marines, Corpsmen, if I could surrender my life for you tonight and forever after, you would return to have a chance to lead a wonderful life forever.
We miss you and know you are watching over us. Thank you for your service to our country. We will never forget you. Semper Fi
Patrick Purdin – Corpsman I only met you in the last few minutes of your life as you worked to save my life as I laid wounded on the ground. I can only say thank you for your sacrifice. To me you are a true hero. I look forward to the day we will meet again and I can say “Thank You” again. Robert Oatis Jones – We were only friends for a short period until I was wounded. You made me and Fred laugh and get through the pressures of Nam. I wish I could have been there to have tried to save you. I miss you!! Aubrey Hemingway
Gary D. Tate – I love you and miss you. I talk with you often, but tonight I felt a closeness reminiscent of our days in Vietnam. I hope to place my hand upon your shoulder once again. I hope to talk with you and be reassured that, on that fateful day, my hand and my voice brought comfort as you lingered there, on foreign soil, waiting to leave this world. Don
L/Cpl Moses There is not a day that goes by I don’t think of you. I know you have found peace up there. Just save me some room. I’m coming soon.
Jarvas – I want to thank you for all you taught me about the bush in the time we had together. I am so so sorry that I could not do more when you were hit. Doc Holland
My brothers from A-C0. 1st BN 7th Marines Liebhaber, Brown, Baurle, Martin, Leighton, McDaniels, Hoagland, Gilmore, Doc Flanagan and the others whom I had the privilege to have fought alongside in Vietnam. You will forever live in my heart. I think of you every day. Until we meet again Semper Fidelis Hermandos Orlando “Ricani” Ramirez 3rd Herd Guns
This is one of the biggest surprises I have had the privilege of being associated with in my life. The memories involved are ever lasting and something that will remain with me forever. This association has given me the opportunity to relive the friendship of the Marines I lived with for thirteen months. Thanks again to the association. RS
Being a Vietnam Vet, I feel guilty that I am not with you in Heaven. Thank you for your service to our country and your extreme sacrifice.
We know how much your loved ones miss you all. We will always remember your sacrifices. To Doc Edge we were the best of friends from when we met in Sept. 1967. I think of you every day. God Bless you and your family. Paul Joseph Edge KIA Jan. 30, 1968
Dear Brothers of 1/7 “I tried my best” Bob “Doc” Joyce C-1-7
To Fallen 1/7 Brothers – You fought and died with honor. Your bravery and strength is not forgotten. We honor your devotion to the Corps and your country. Steven Mapel C 1/7 1968 1969
To Dave Doboz, Glen Willis and all those we lost. They are not forgotten – may we, as Lincoln said, carry on their task, remembering that freedom is never free.
Thank you Terry Aldridge for calling. I had no idea these took place and am honored 1/7 took time to find me. Although I’ve not run across a few men I wanted to reconnect with – I’ve run across a great group of old friends. Thank You
God bless your families for the ultimate sacrifice they bore. Your country is proud of you.
Dearest Marine/Corpsman – I am a mother and if I could I would wrap you in my arms and hold you just as your own mother would if she could. I would comfort you, tell you, how much I love and miss you every minute of every day. And I would ask the good Lord to watch over you. Cathleen Joyce
You men served great, with honor and courage. May you rest in peace. Lorne C. Kasdin C 1/7 1967-1968
May God Bless you, and keep you. You are loved and missed, but we will meet again. Love and God Blessing TLC
Bill Gibbs, Tommy Callahan, Augie Caldwell, Sgt. Brewer, Paul Etter We’ll meet someday again Bob “Rich” Richard
When I think of the lives lost and given during the Vietnam War, I am humbled. Humbled by the fact that they exemplified the life of Christ. Christ gave His life so that we may be forgiven and live eternally. These men and women freely gave their lives to give us freedom. I am forever in their debt as I am to my Lord. – Thank you for the cost that you paid for me and those who survived and live on. Judy Nelson wife of Sgt. John (Fred) Nelson
My heart is full of gratitude for your service and your supreme sacrifice. Some among you were fellow Marines with my husband, and he has told me of your bravery and dedication. I thank you.
Marines – Thank you for everything you do and did. You guys are the best. You are my heroes. B. Gilbertson Vietnam 65 C-1-7
In my heart you always will be with me. In my mind you have and will never leave. You will never be alone. God will reward you forever. We’ll see again. LL
God Bless your souls. Semper Fi. We will all be together again. C-1-7
To all my 1/7 brothers that were KIA’d so very long ago,... You were, are, and will always be so terribly missed.... To those of you that I knew well, you’ve never really left me. Everyday of my life I find some time to remember your names, and to remember your smiles. Love, Mac
You are truly missed, but you will never be forgotten. You will be in my heart until the day I join you. I’ll tell you about my children and grand kids, for if it not for you keeping me safe in Vietnam I would never have enjoyed them. Thank you – Semper Fi
I thank our gracious God every day of my life for the fallen who died so that we can be free to carry on this tradition. I feel I owe my life and breath the past 46 years to their ultimate sacrifice. Thank you, Fallen Warriors, for your contribution to our freedom in this great country of ours. We cherish your memory and legacy. John Tunnell Suicide Charley 1/7 67-68
My dearest Eddie – You were my best friend and first scout/sniper team mate. You were taken from us in Feb 67, as the first USMC Scout/Sniper KIA in the Vietnam War. You know I have visited your grave many times. I left you a scout/sniper challenge coin which I put deep into the soil. I have been close to your family since and await the day we are together again. I will always be your loving Marine Corps Brother, and look forward to the day our souls are reunited again. Your Loving Team Mate Tom “Moose” Ferran BTW.... Eddie, the Marine Corps actually made me an officer. That’s proof shit really happens! S/F
Brothers – We gave all we had. You gave all you would ever have. See you soon
God Bless all Marines, past, present and future!!
To the guys in Charlie Co. 1965-66-who, gave their lives. You and your family are in our prayers today and forever. Sgt. John (Freddy) Nelson
2012
TO: PATRICK PURDIN
PATRICK I THANK YOU FOR SAVING MY LIFE. YOU GAVE YOUR LIFE FOR ME AND THIS IS A GIFT I WISH I COULD REPAY BUT CAN’T.
I WISH YOU WERE HERE WITH US
GOD BLESS YOU
AUBRY HEMINGWAY
MY FELLOW BROTHERS
I’M SO SORRY THAT YOU WERE NOT ABLE TO CONTINUE YOUR LIFE IN A PEACEFUL WAY. I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT I HAVE DEDICATED MY LIFE TO YOU. I WORKED HARD TO BE A GOOD MAN AND AN OUTSTANDING ROLL MODEL FOR MY CHILDREN. I LIVED MY LIFE TO HONOR YOU AND WHAT YOU SACRIFICED YOUR LIFE FOR ME AND OUR BROTHERS IN YOUR SACRIFICE FOR US. WHEN MY DAY COMES MY WISH IS THAT I WILL SEE YOU AGAIN AND YOU WILL RECOGNIZE ME AS A BROTHER
CPL. KEN
TO MY BROTHER GARY TATE. I LOVE YOU! I MISS YOU! YOUR DEATH BROUGHT ME THE DEEPEST PAIN MY 18YR OLD HEART HAD EVER FELT. THAT EXPERIENCE ROCKED MY HEART AND SOUL; IT SHOOK THE FOUNDATIONS OF MY LIFE. BUT PLEASE KNOW THIS, GARY, I HAVE NEVER FORGOTTEN YOU AND I NEVER WILL. YOU LIVE IN MY MIND. YOUR IMAGE IS IMPRINTED ON MY MEMORY. I LIVE TO SEE YOU AGAIN.
DON
NOT ONE SPARROW SHALL FALL TO THE GROUND, APART FROM THE WILL OF THE FATHER. GOD BLESS YOU! THANK YOU! SAY HI TO MY BROTHERAND GIVE HIM A HUG FOR ME.
PK
I WILL ALWAYS LOVE AND APPRECIATE YOU. I WILL NEVER FORGET. MY LIFE AND THE LIVES OF SO MANY OTHERS ARE BETTER BECAUSE OF YOU. I LONG FOR THE DAY WHEN I WILL BE REUNITED WITH YOU AGAIN, IN THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD
SOMEONE SAID THAT THE DEATH OF ONE DIMINISHES US ALL – BUT THE DEATH OF THE MEN MY HUSBAND SERVED WITH HAS BEEN REPRESENTED BY HIS LIFE –THE FACT THAT HE HAS GONE ON TO BE A GOOD AND THOUGHTFUL LIFR SERVING OTHERS WAS FORGED BY THE MEN WHO DIED WITH HIM IN VIETNAM.
HOW MANY TIMES HAVE WE THOUGHT……THAT WE WOULD CHANGE PLACES WITH YOU, JUST TO HAVE YOU BACK. BUT WE LIVE WITH THE BELIEF, THAT WE, AT SOME TIME, WILL BE TOGETHER AGAIN, FOREVER. UNTIL THEN, REST IN PEACE MY BROTHERS
JIM WENDLING
I JOINED D1/7 IN JAN. 1969. IN THE FEW DAYS I KNEW HIM HE IMPRESSED ON ME HIS EXPERIENCE DURING THIS TIME AS A D1/7 MARINE. HE WAS MY FIRST TEAM LEADER. HE FELL TO ENEMY FIRE ON FEB. 16, 1969. I WANT TO THANK HIM FOR WHAT HE TAUGHT ME IN THE FEW DAYS I KNEW HIM. I ALSO WANT TO HONOR ALL THOSE OTHER MEMBERS OF THE 1/7 MARINES AND OUR HONORED CORPSMEN WHO GAVE THEIR ALL FOR OUR COUNTRY WHO FELL IN BATTLE. THANK YOU!
ALVIN, I LIVED YOU DIED IN VIETNAM. I HAVE TRIED TO LIVE A LIFE THAT IS DESERVING OF YOUR SACRIFICE AND OTHERS FOR THE SAKE OF FREEDOM. YOU WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN IN MY LIFETIME
PAUL QUATTLEBAUM C-1/7 MARINES VIETNAM
LT. JIM WITT
I WAS 13 WHEN I LOST YOU ON VALENTINES DAY 69. IT’S BEEN DIFFICULT WITHOUT YOU, BUT YOUR BROTHERS OF 1/7 HAVE BEEN GREAT TO ME. THEY ALL SAY THE SAME THING, YOU WERE A MARINE, A LEADER OF MEN.
YOUR BROTHER BOB
DEAR DAD:
THE HOLLOWNESS I FEEL WITH YOU GONE, IS ONLY FILLED BY THE PRIDE YOU GAVE ME BY YOUR ACTIONS. I PRAY I HAVE LIVED UP TO YOUR EXEMPLE. I LOVE YOU GUNNY!
YOUR SON
GUYS, WORDS CAN NEVER SAY WHAT IS IN MY HEART FOR YOU. IF I COULD SURRENDER MY LIFE FOR YOUR RETURN YOU WOULD BE BACK TODAY. I MISS YOU MY BROTHERS AND WILL NEVER FORGET THE GREAT MEN YOU WERE.
SEMPER FI!
AT THIS TIME I WOULD LIKE TO SAY I AM VERY PROUD TO BE A MARINE. I HID FOR 40 YEARS AND NOW HAVE BEEN FOUND. I LOVE THESE BROTHERS WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE AND THE ONES WITH ME TODAY. I TRY TO SHOW MY PRIDE AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY AND WILL NEVER HIDE AGAIN. ONCE A MARINE, ALWAYS A MARINE
DP
TO ALL MY TROOPS, THE ONES WE FOUGHT WITH, THE ONES WE LOST, THE ONES WE’VE LED AND THE ONES WE FOLLOWED. IT IS FOR YOU ALL THAT WE COME TOGETHER TO COMMERATE AND CELEBRATE AND IT IS FOR YOU THAT WE WILL RETURN. HOORAH!
J CADENA
I CANNOT EXPRESS IN WORDS THE VALUE OF YOUR SERVICE AND DEDICATION TO OUR COUNTRY. THE SORROW I HAVE FOR THOSE THAT NEVER RETURNED TO ENJOY THE REST OF THEIR LIVES IS OVERWHELMING. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SACRIFICE FOREVER.
FELLOW MARINES, LOST BROTHERS, FALLEN HEROES\
THIS NIGHT WE HONOR YOU FOR THE GREATEST SACRIFICE ONE CAN MAKE AND THAT IS TO DIE FOR YOUR FELLOW MAN. WE SALUTE YOU AND ARE PROUD TO SHARE THIS TABLE IN MEMORY OF THAT SERVICE. THE CORPS IS STRONGER AND MORE DEDICATED TO COUNTRY AND FAMILY BECAUSE OF YOUR SUPREME SACRIFICE. REMEMBERING THOSE DAYS WE SERVED TOGETHER WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
DEAR GUNNY SGT RICHARD CRAWFORD,
THIS IS TO HONOR YOU FOR YOUR SACRAFICE TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. I ALSO WANT YOU TO KNOW THE THREE YOUNG SONS YOU LEFT BEHIND, THOMAS (AGE 9), RICHARD (AGE 6) AND MY DEAR HUSBAND JAMES EDWARD (AGE 3), WENT FORWARD TO HONOR YOU BY BECOMING MARINES. SO VERY PROUD OF ALL OF THEM FOR FOLLOWING YOUR GREAT EXAMPLE.
YOU GUYS WENT FIRST INTO DANGER AND YOU WENT FIRST INTO THE NEXT LIFE. YOU MISSED A LOT THAT WE WHO LIVED LATER ENJOYED. BY DOING SO YOU GAVE MANY MORE A BETTER LIFE. GOD SAY YOUR LOVE FOR YOUR FELLOW MAN AND ALLOWS US TO REMEMBER AND HONOR YOU. WE AND “GOD” WILL NOT FORGET YOU.
ALWAYS, YOUR BROTHERS
BROTHERS,
YOU ARE NOT WITH US PHYSICALLY TODAY, BUT YOU ARE WITH ME AND YOUR BROTHER 1/7 MARINES EVERY DAY! I AM PROUD TO HAVE KNOWN YOU AND TO HAVE SERVED WITH YOU IN THE FINEST MILITARY FRATERNITY IN THE HISTORY OF THIS WORLD!
SEMPER FI BROTHERS
DAD (GYSGT CRAWFORD) A/1/7- 68 KIA 7 DEC 68 MEADE RIVER
I ONLY KNOW YOU FROM PICTURES AND STORIES FROM YOUR FELLOW COMRADES FROM A CO., BUT I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT THE MORE I HEAR THE PROUDER I AM
SEMPER FI
THANK YOU MORE THAN WORDS CAN EXPRESS. NO GREATER SACRIFICE EVER GIVEN BY MAN. WE ARE FREE BECAUSE YOU GAVE ALL THAT ONE CAN GIVE. MAY WE NOT TREAT THIS FREEDOM LIGHTLY, BUT PRECIOUS AND PRICELESS.
WITH SINCERE THANKS,
LOTS OF LOVE MARSHA LOUISE CECIL FROM ONE OF THOSE YOU MADE FREE
WORDS CAN’T EXPLAIN HOW THE HEART FEELS. I MISS YOU GUYS EVERY DAY OF MY LIFE AND KEEP YOU ALL ALIVE IN MY MEMORIES.
SEMPER FI JACK CROALL C 1/7
WE THE LIVING WILL TRY TO LIVE OUR LIVES WITH THE CONSTANT REMINDER OF YOUR FULL MEASURE OF SACRIFICE.
TO ALL WHO HAVE SERVED
THANK YOU WITH ALL MY HEART FOR YOUR SERVICE AND SACRIFICE FOR MY FREEDOM AND LIFE. OUR PRAYERS WILL ALWAYS BE WITH YOU.
GAIE W.
I’M SO HONORED TO HAVE SERVED WITH YOU. YOU ARE MY HERO’S. I’M SO SORRY FOR YOUR FAMILIES LOSS AND OUR COUNTRY’S LOSS. YOU HAVE BEEN IN HEAVEN WITH OUR HEAVENLY FATHER. I HOPE AND PRAY TO BE WITH YOU SOME DAY. SEMPER FI
AUGIE, MARVIN, TOMMY, BILL, PAUL, BILL
WE MISS YOU. PLEASE KNOW WE WILL NIVER FORGET YOU.
BOB “RICH” RICHARD
I WILL ALWAYS REMAIN SEMPER FIDELIS TO YOUR MEMORY AND SACRIFICE OF YOUR LIFE SO THAT THE CITIZENS OF THE US ARE STILL ABLE TO ENJOY THEIR FREEDOMS, RIGHTS, AND PRIVILEDGES, WHICH YOU FOUGHT TO PROTECT
RICHARD A. WEISS
TO ALL OF YOU MARINES WHO I WILL NEVER HAVE THE HONOR TO KNOW. I WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS MY GRATITUDE FOR YOUR COURAGE, YOUR SACRIFICES, YOUR DEDICATION AND YOUR LOVE OF COUNTRY. I HAVE BEE PRIVILEDGED TO SPEND 40 PLUS YEARS WITH MY MARINE WHO CAME HOME FROM NAM, WOUNDED AND DISABLED. BUT PROUD OF HIS SERVICE. MAY YOUR FAMILIES MEET YOU AGAIN IN HEAVEN. MAY YOUR COMRADES CONTINUE TO UPHOLD YOUR HONOR UNTIL YOU ARE ALL UNITED IN THE CORPS ABOVE.
DEBBIE LEWIS
TO MY BROTHERS,
I WANT TO THANK YOU FOR LAYING THE FOOTSTEPS, AND FOUNDATIONS OF THE CORPS I HOPE AND PRAY TO CONTINUE THE LEGACY AND HONOR OF BEING A MARINE. THANK YOU WARRIORS, FOR PRESERVING OUR FREEDOM.
SGTMAJ LARRY HARRINGTON (Active Duty)
I HAVE CRIED MANY TEARS FOR YOU OVER THE YEARS. I OFTEN FEEL IT WAS ONLY YESTERDAY. I THINK OF WHO YOU WOULD HAVE BECOME. THE UNBORN CHILDREN, THE HAPPY TIMES, THE JOY OF LIFE. THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS.
DON BROWNING
IF NOT FOR YOUR SACRIFICE WE WOULDN’T BE ABLE TO WRITE THESE NOTES TO YOU ALL. WE ARE GREATFUL EACH DAY FOR YOUR SERVICE AND YOU ARE FOREVER IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. WE TRULY WILL NEVER FORGET YOU.
WE’VE LIVED 2 LIFETIMES SINCE YOU DIED AND THERE ISN’T 1 DAY THAT GOES BY WITHOUT YOU BEING IN MY THOUGHTS. YOU’VE MADE ME A BETTER MAN.
BROTHERS, EVERYDAY THE CHALLENGES THAT I FACE ARE EASED BY KNOWING THAT YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION TO KEEP MOVING FORWARD NO MATTER WHAT.
SEMPER FI D.R. FOLEY
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE GIVEN FOR ME. MY FAMILY, AND OUR NATION. BRAVE MEN LIKE YOU DEFEND OUR FREEDOM AND MAKE AMERICA THE BEST COUNTRY IN THE WHOLE WORLD. YOU MAKE ME PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN
KAREN CECIL
YOU MAGNIFICANT GUYS GAVE ALL. YOU WILL BE FOREVER YOUNG IN THE MEMORY OF YOUR FRIENDS, FELLOW MARINES AND LOVED ONES. YOU EARNED THE RIGHT TO REJOICE AND REST IN PEACE!
SEMPER FI!
IF I COULD GO BACK IN TIME, I WOULD GLADLY GIVE MY LIFE SO MY 566 BROTHERS WHO DIED IN COMBAT COULD BE HERE IN MY PLACE TONIGHT
CPL JOSEPH A. HAMRICK
HOW COULD WE EVER THANK YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FOR YOUR SERVICE AND SACRIFICE. MAY YOU REST IN PEACE IN GOD’S HEAVENLY PLACES. WITH GREAT GRATITUDE FOR MY FREEDOM AND ALL AMERICANS. GOD BLESS YOU
BRENDA STAMPER
I WAS A NURSING STUDENT DURING 1966-1969 AND MY KNOWLEDGE OF THE WAR CONSISTED OF THE DAILY ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE NUMBERS OF AMERICAN LOSS OF LIFE IN VIETNAM. MY UNDERSTANDING HAS GROWN EXPODENTIALLY IN THE YEARS SINCE. MOST OF IT HAS COME DURING THE DAYS OF THE 1/7 REUNION. I AM SO PROUD AND SO GRATEFUL TO ALL WHO SERVED AND CONTINUE TO SERVE. HONORED TO BE HERE.
MARIE COLE
TO MY FALLEN BROTHERS
YOU’RE NOT FORGOTTEN. YOU LIVE ON WITHIN ME AND MY FAMILY. GUNNY CRAWFORD, YOU WOULD BE SO PROUD OF YOUR SONS THOMAS AND JAMES. THEY HAVE KEPT THE TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS. LIVE ON! OOHRAH
TO OUR FALLEN MARINES,
“THANK YOU” JUST DOSEN’T SEEM LIKE ENOUGH, BUT IT’S ALL WE HAVE. YOU ARE OUR HEORS AND THE REASON WE ARE FREE. WE HOLD YOU IN OUR HEARTS AND IN THE EYES OF EVERY MARINE STANDING TALL TO THIS DAY.
SEMPER FIDELIS LORI JOLLY PERRINGER PROUD DAUGHTER OF A MARINE
I DO NOT KNOW YOUR NAME BROTHER. I LOOKED INTO YOUR EYES, STARING BLANKLY INTO THE SKY ONLY FOUR YARDS FROM WHERE I MET YOU. AS I CARRIED ANOTHER BROTHER FROM OBJECTIVE 6 ON THE UPSLOPE BEFORE HILL 502. TOTALLY OUTNUMBERED I WAS OUT OF M-79 ROUNDS. YOU STOOD WITH ME IN THE DARK. IN THE MORNING YOUR LIFE WAS ON THE GROUND.
THANKS BROTHER.
TO THANK YOU SEEMS TO LITTLE FOR ALL THESE MEN WHO HAVE GAVE THEIR ALL FOR EACH AND EVERYONE OF US HERE, BIT IN OUR HEARTS THE LOSS IS FELT AFTER ALL THESE LONG YEARS LATER
TO MY PLATOON CMDR., LT TYRONE PANNELL, YOUR HEART AND LOVE FOR YOUR TROOPS WAS AS BIG AS YOU WERE TALL. REST IN PEACE, DELTA CO. HAS YOUR BACK – SGT. SAL OLIVAS
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY AND FOR MAKING THE SUPREME SACRIFICE. AS A DAUGHTER OF A BROTHER WHO MADE IT HOME. I THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO KEEP MY DAD SAFE SO HE COULD COME HOME AND BECOME MY DAD. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU.
I LOVE YOU BROTHERS. I MISS YOU DAILY. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART AND MIND. TILL WE MEET AGAIN.
SGT. TOM (TINY) VEIGH
TO THE FALLEN BROTHERS OF THE 1/7
THANK YOU FOR YOUR ULTIMATE SACRIFICE AND THE COMRADERIE YOU PROVIDED MY FATHER DURING THE TIME YOU SHARED IN VIETNAM. NEITHER OF THOSE WILL BE FORGOTTEN.
THE SACRIFICES MADE BY ONE FALLEN MARINE EMBODIES THE VALUES THAT HAVE MADE OUR COUNTRY SO GREAT.
ANDY IVERSON BN. SURGEON 1/7 68-69
I WOULD LIKE TO TELL YOU ALL THAT WE HAVE LIVED OUR LIVES, MARRIED, HAD CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN AND OWE MUCH TO YOUR SACRIFICES. WE HAVE NOT AND WILL NEVER FORGET YOU OR SERVING WITH YOU.
SEMPER FI CPL EVANS C CO. 1/7
TO THE MARINES WHO LOST THEIR LIVES ON 31 JAN 1968 AND 12 FEB 1968 YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN – YOU ARE REMEMBERED AT EVERY 1/7 MARINE REUNION SEMPER FI
BECAUSE OF YOUR SACRIFICES MY GRANDCHILDREN ARE FREE
THANK YOU
WAIT FOR ME GUYS. I WON’T BE TOO LATE TO STAND THE 2 TO 4 WATCH AT THE PEARLY GATE SEMPER FI THOM TOWELL B-1/7
OH MY…..THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE FOR US. I’M SO HAPPY YOU HAVE GONE TO BE WITH OUR LOVING FATHER – YOU WILL NEVER SUFFER AGAIN – YOU NOW CAN BE CUDDLED AND PROTECTED – ENVELOPED IN THE LOVE OF THE LORD – WE MISS YOU AND WISH WE COULD HUG YOU-WE ANXIOUSLY AWAIT THE DAY WE CAN GIVE YOU OUR LOVE AND APPRECIATION AGAIN.
HUGS AND BLESSINGS MJ
THIS IS MY SECOND REUNION AND THE MEMORIAL SERVICES IN YOUR HONOR IS GREAT. ALL WAR IS TERRIBLE AND SENSELESS AND TO ME A WASTE OF LIFE. BUT WITH OUR REUNIONS YOUR SACRIFICES WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN. WE HAVE TO KEEP YOUR MEMORY ALIVE AND NEVER FORGOTTEN WITHIN US.
THANK YOU BROTHERS – REST IN PEACE. SECURE A PLACE FOR US.
SGT. MACK FERRICK
MARINE – THROUGH THE SUNLIGHT I HEAR YOU VOICE BUT YOU PRESENCE IS DIM. I KNOW THE PATH YOU CHOSE IS ONE I SHALL FOLLOW AND WILL. IN DOING SO I WILL PRESERVE YOUR MEMORY AND CAUSE OF DUTY. THANK YOU FOR GIVING MY MILITARY CAREER MEANING AND HONOR. STAY TRUE TO THE BATTLE PLAN AND TOGETHER WE WILL KEEP THE LIGHT BURING STRONG, MARINE STRONG E-5 SGT. USMC
2ND LT. DON BROOKS
I REGRET YOU CAN’T BE HERE TO CELEBRATE THIS GREAT EVENT WITH ME, THE BN REUNION. AS YOU WERE IN A1/7. I’M CELEBRATING B1/7 AND D1/7 REUNION
LOVE DAD
I TALKED TO THE GUYS I WAS WITH OFTEN AND I’M GLAD THAT THEY ANSWER
THANK YOU MARINES FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY. YOU ARE IN HEAVEN LOOKING DOWN ON US AS WE PAY RESPECT TO MARINES FOR THEIR WONDERFUL SERVICE DIXIE FORREST
TOUR FELLOW MARINES ARE CONFRATULATED TONIGHT TO HONOR YOUR SACRIFICE. WE WANT YOU TO KNOW WE MISS YOU.
WELL BROTHERS I MADE IT. LIFE IS GOOD NOW, THINGS HAVE CHANGED….YEA WE ARE IN THE 21ST CENTURY. I WISH SO VERY MUCH WE COULD ALL BE HERE TOGETHER
GEORGE WOODLING JR.
TO ALL CHARLIE 1/7 68/69
THANK YOU ALL FOR BECOMING BOB’S FAMILY AND FOR GETTING HIM HOME AGAIN. WHEN I COME TO THESE REUNIONS I FEEL LIKE ONE OF A SPECIAL FAMILY TOO. GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU ALL
STEPHENS, I WISH I COULD HAVE HELPED YOU.
MY VERY 1ST TIME TO THE WALL AT A 1/7 REUNION I HAD A STRANGE EXPERIENCE AS WE PASSED THE PANELS. WITHOUT KNOWING, I FOUND A HIGH SCHOOL FRIEND DANNY NELSON AS IF HE REACHED OUT TO ME. THEN AS WE WENT FURTHER ON I FOUND THOMAS CALLAHAN WHO FRED WAS LOOKING FOR WITHOUT KNOWING WHAT PANEL HIS NAME RESTED. I BELIEVE THOSE WHOM WAIT FOR US ARE REACHING OUT TO LET US KNOW THEY ARE WAITING FOR US IN THE HEREAFTER. AND WE ARE HERE TO REMEMBER THEY WALK AMONG US AND ARE WAITING FOR US TO JOIN THEM SOME DAY. THOSE WHO CAME HOME ARE HERE TO THOSE WHO DID NOT HAVE THE HONOR OF KEEPING THEIR LIVES ALIVE FOR ALL OF US WHO NEVER SAW THE WARRIORS FIGHT FOR OUR FREEDOMS LOVE ALWAYS LINDA BULLIS
IT WAS A PLEASURE TO SHARE THE SAME GROUND YOU DID THANK YOU
DOC DICK BAXTER
YOU WENT MUCH TO SOON, BIT I WAS PROUD TO CALL YOU A FRIEND, I’VE TALKED TO YOUR BROTHER AND HE IS VERY PROUD OF YOUR SERVICE AND OF YOU. REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND
AS LONG AS YOUR NAMES ARE SPOKEN, YOU WILL LIVE FOREVER
MY WISH FOR YOU IS THAT YOU COULD KNOW THE RESPECT AND PRIDE SHOWERED ON YOU TODAY. MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILIES WHO STILL FEEL YOUR LOSS GOD BLESS YOU ALL
FOR THE FALLEN – THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD AS WE THAT ARE LEFT GROW OLD. THE YEARS SHALL NOT WEARY THEM NOR TIME CONDEM. AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN AND IN THE MORNING, WE SHALL REMEMBER THEM.
LTC LAWRENCE BINYON 1914
TO: PATRICK PURDIN
PATRICK I THANK YOU FOR SAVING MY LIFE. YOU GAVE YOUR LIFE FOR ME AND THIS IS A GIFT I WISH I COULD REPAY BUT CAN’T.
I WISH YOU WERE HERE WITH US
GOD BLESS YOU
AUBRY HEMINGWAY
MY FELLOW BROTHERS
I’M SO SORRY THAT YOU WERE NOT ABLE TO CONTINUE YOUR LIFE IN A PEACEFUL WAY. I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT I HAVE DEDICATED MY LIFE TO YOU. I WORKED HARD TO BE A GOOD MAN AND AN OUTSTANDING ROLL MODEL FOR MY CHILDREN. I LIVED MY LIFE TO HONOR YOU AND WHAT YOU SACRIFICED YOUR LIFE FOR ME AND OUR BROTHERS IN YOUR SACRIFICE FOR US. WHEN MY DAY COMES MY WISH IS THAT I WILL SEE YOU AGAIN AND YOU WILL RECOGNIZE ME AS A BROTHER
CPL. KEN
TO MY BROTHER GARY TATE. I LOVE YOU! I MISS YOU! YOUR DEATH BROUGHT ME THE DEEPEST PAIN MY 18YR OLD HEART HAD EVER FELT. THAT EXPERIENCE ROCKED MY HEART AND SOUL; IT SHOOK THE FOUNDATIONS OF MY LIFE. BUT PLEASE KNOW THIS, GARY, I HAVE NEVER FORGOTTEN YOU AND I NEVER WILL. YOU LIVE IN MY MIND. YOUR IMAGE IS IMPRINTED ON MY MEMORY. I LIVE TO SEE YOU AGAIN.
DON
NOT ONE SPARROW SHALL FALL TO THE GROUND, APART FROM THE WILL OF THE FATHER. GOD BLESS YOU! THANK YOU! SAY HI TO MY BROTHERAND GIVE HIM A HUG FOR ME.
PK
I WILL ALWAYS LOVE AND APPRECIATE YOU. I WILL NEVER FORGET. MY LIFE AND THE LIVES OF SO MANY OTHERS ARE BETTER BECAUSE OF YOU. I LONG FOR THE DAY WHEN I WILL BE REUNITED WITH YOU AGAIN, IN THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD
SOMEONE SAID THAT THE DEATH OF ONE DIMINISHES US ALL – BUT THE DEATH OF THE MEN MY HUSBAND SERVED WITH HAS BEEN REPRESENTED BY HIS LIFE –THE FACT THAT HE HAS GONE ON TO BE A GOOD AND THOUGHTFUL LIFR SERVING OTHERS WAS FORGED BY THE MEN WHO DIED WITH HIM IN VIETNAM.
HOW MANY TIMES HAVE WE THOUGHT……THAT WE WOULD CHANGE PLACES WITH YOU, JUST TO HAVE YOU BACK. BUT WE LIVE WITH THE BELIEF, THAT WE, AT SOME TIME, WILL BE TOGETHER AGAIN, FOREVER. UNTIL THEN, REST IN PEACE MY BROTHERS
JIM WENDLING
I JOINED D1/7 IN JAN. 1969. IN THE FEW DAYS I KNEW HIM HE IMPRESSED ON ME HIS EXPERIENCE DURING THIS TIME AS A D1/7 MARINE. HE WAS MY FIRST TEAM LEADER. HE FELL TO ENEMY FIRE ON FEB. 16, 1969. I WANT TO THANK HIM FOR WHAT HE TAUGHT ME IN THE FEW DAYS I KNEW HIM. I ALSO WANT TO HONOR ALL THOSE OTHER MEMBERS OF THE 1/7 MARINES AND OUR HONORED CORPSMEN WHO GAVE THEIR ALL FOR OUR COUNTRY WHO FELL IN BATTLE. THANK YOU!
ALVIN, I LIVED YOU DIED IN VIETNAM. I HAVE TRIED TO LIVE A LIFE THAT IS DESERVING OF YOUR SACRIFICE AND OTHERS FOR THE SAKE OF FREEDOM. YOU WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN IN MY LIFETIME
PAUL QUATTLEBAUM C-1/7 MARINES VIETNAM
LT. JIM WITT
I WAS 13 WHEN I LOST YOU ON VALENTINES DAY 69. IT’S BEEN DIFFICULT WITHOUT YOU, BUT YOUR BROTHERS OF 1/7 HAVE BEEN GREAT TO ME. THEY ALL SAY THE SAME THING, YOU WERE A MARINE, A LEADER OF MEN.
YOUR BROTHER BOB
DEAR DAD:
THE HOLLOWNESS I FEEL WITH YOU GONE, IS ONLY FILLED BY THE PRIDE YOU GAVE ME BY YOUR ACTIONS. I PRAY I HAVE LIVED UP TO YOUR EXEMPLE. I LOVE YOU GUNNY!
YOUR SON
GUYS, WORDS CAN NEVER SAY WHAT IS IN MY HEART FOR YOU. IF I COULD SURRENDER MY LIFE FOR YOUR RETURN YOU WOULD BE BACK TODAY. I MISS YOU MY BROTHERS AND WILL NEVER FORGET THE GREAT MEN YOU WERE.
SEMPER FI!
AT THIS TIME I WOULD LIKE TO SAY I AM VERY PROUD TO BE A MARINE. I HID FOR 40 YEARS AND NOW HAVE BEEN FOUND. I LOVE THESE BROTHERS WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE AND THE ONES WITH ME TODAY. I TRY TO SHOW MY PRIDE AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY AND WILL NEVER HIDE AGAIN. ONCE A MARINE, ALWAYS A MARINE
DP
TO ALL MY TROOPS, THE ONES WE FOUGHT WITH, THE ONES WE LOST, THE ONES WE’VE LED AND THE ONES WE FOLLOWED. IT IS FOR YOU ALL THAT WE COME TOGETHER TO COMMERATE AND CELEBRATE AND IT IS FOR YOU THAT WE WILL RETURN. HOORAH!
J CADENA
I CANNOT EXPRESS IN WORDS THE VALUE OF YOUR SERVICE AND DEDICATION TO OUR COUNTRY. THE SORROW I HAVE FOR THOSE THAT NEVER RETURNED TO ENJOY THE REST OF THEIR LIVES IS OVERWHELMING. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SACRIFICE FOREVER.
FELLOW MARINES, LOST BROTHERS, FALLEN HEROES\
THIS NIGHT WE HONOR YOU FOR THE GREATEST SACRIFICE ONE CAN MAKE AND THAT IS TO DIE FOR YOUR FELLOW MAN. WE SALUTE YOU AND ARE PROUD TO SHARE THIS TABLE IN MEMORY OF THAT SERVICE. THE CORPS IS STRONGER AND MORE DEDICATED TO COUNTRY AND FAMILY BECAUSE OF YOUR SUPREME SACRIFICE. REMEMBERING THOSE DAYS WE SERVED TOGETHER WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
DEAR GUNNY SGT RICHARD CRAWFORD,
THIS IS TO HONOR YOU FOR YOUR SACRAFICE TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. I ALSO WANT YOU TO KNOW THE THREE YOUNG SONS YOU LEFT BEHIND, THOMAS (AGE 9), RICHARD (AGE 6) AND MY DEAR HUSBAND JAMES EDWARD (AGE 3), WENT FORWARD TO HONOR YOU BY BECOMING MARINES. SO VERY PROUD OF ALL OF THEM FOR FOLLOWING YOUR GREAT EXAMPLE.
YOU GUYS WENT FIRST INTO DANGER AND YOU WENT FIRST INTO THE NEXT LIFE. YOU MISSED A LOT THAT WE WHO LIVED LATER ENJOYED. BY DOING SO YOU GAVE MANY MORE A BETTER LIFE. GOD SAY YOUR LOVE FOR YOUR FELLOW MAN AND ALLOWS US TO REMEMBER AND HONOR YOU. WE AND “GOD” WILL NOT FORGET YOU.
ALWAYS, YOUR BROTHERS
BROTHERS,
YOU ARE NOT WITH US PHYSICALLY TODAY, BUT YOU ARE WITH ME AND YOUR BROTHER 1/7 MARINES EVERY DAY! I AM PROUD TO HAVE KNOWN YOU AND TO HAVE SERVED WITH YOU IN THE FINEST MILITARY FRATERNITY IN THE HISTORY OF THIS WORLD!
SEMPER FI BROTHERS
DAD (GYSGT CRAWFORD) A/1/7- 68 KIA 7 DEC 68 MEADE RIVER
I ONLY KNOW YOU FROM PICTURES AND STORIES FROM YOUR FELLOW COMRADES FROM A CO., BUT I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT THE MORE I HEAR THE PROUDER I AM
SEMPER FI
THANK YOU MORE THAN WORDS CAN EXPRESS. NO GREATER SACRIFICE EVER GIVEN BY MAN. WE ARE FREE BECAUSE YOU GAVE ALL THAT ONE CAN GIVE. MAY WE NOT TREAT THIS FREEDOM LIGHTLY, BUT PRECIOUS AND PRICELESS.
WITH SINCERE THANKS,
LOTS OF LOVE MARSHA LOUISE CECIL FROM ONE OF THOSE YOU MADE FREE
WORDS CAN’T EXPLAIN HOW THE HEART FEELS. I MISS YOU GUYS EVERY DAY OF MY LIFE AND KEEP YOU ALL ALIVE IN MY MEMORIES.
SEMPER FI JACK CROALL C 1/7
WE THE LIVING WILL TRY TO LIVE OUR LIVES WITH THE CONSTANT REMINDER OF YOUR FULL MEASURE OF SACRIFICE.
TO ALL WHO HAVE SERVED
THANK YOU WITH ALL MY HEART FOR YOUR SERVICE AND SACRIFICE FOR MY FREEDOM AND LIFE. OUR PRAYERS WILL ALWAYS BE WITH YOU.
GAIE W.
I’M SO HONORED TO HAVE SERVED WITH YOU. YOU ARE MY HERO’S. I’M SO SORRY FOR YOUR FAMILIES LOSS AND OUR COUNTRY’S LOSS. YOU HAVE BEEN IN HEAVEN WITH OUR HEAVENLY FATHER. I HOPE AND PRAY TO BE WITH YOU SOME DAY. SEMPER FI
AUGIE, MARVIN, TOMMY, BILL, PAUL, BILL
WE MISS YOU. PLEASE KNOW WE WILL NIVER FORGET YOU.
BOB “RICH” RICHARD
I WILL ALWAYS REMAIN SEMPER FIDELIS TO YOUR MEMORY AND SACRIFICE OF YOUR LIFE SO THAT THE CITIZENS OF THE US ARE STILL ABLE TO ENJOY THEIR FREEDOMS, RIGHTS, AND PRIVILEDGES, WHICH YOU FOUGHT TO PROTECT
RICHARD A. WEISS
TO ALL OF YOU MARINES WHO I WILL NEVER HAVE THE HONOR TO KNOW. I WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS MY GRATITUDE FOR YOUR COURAGE, YOUR SACRIFICES, YOUR DEDICATION AND YOUR LOVE OF COUNTRY. I HAVE BEE PRIVILEDGED TO SPEND 40 PLUS YEARS WITH MY MARINE WHO CAME HOME FROM NAM, WOUNDED AND DISABLED. BUT PROUD OF HIS SERVICE. MAY YOUR FAMILIES MEET YOU AGAIN IN HEAVEN. MAY YOUR COMRADES CONTINUE TO UPHOLD YOUR HONOR UNTIL YOU ARE ALL UNITED IN THE CORPS ABOVE.
DEBBIE LEWIS
TO MY BROTHERS,
I WANT TO THANK YOU FOR LAYING THE FOOTSTEPS, AND FOUNDATIONS OF THE CORPS I HOPE AND PRAY TO CONTINUE THE LEGACY AND HONOR OF BEING A MARINE. THANK YOU WARRIORS, FOR PRESERVING OUR FREEDOM.
SGTMAJ LARRY HARRINGTON (Active Duty)
I HAVE CRIED MANY TEARS FOR YOU OVER THE YEARS. I OFTEN FEEL IT WAS ONLY YESTERDAY. I THINK OF WHO YOU WOULD HAVE BECOME. THE UNBORN CHILDREN, THE HAPPY TIMES, THE JOY OF LIFE. THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS.
DON BROWNING
IF NOT FOR YOUR SACRIFICE WE WOULDN’T BE ABLE TO WRITE THESE NOTES TO YOU ALL. WE ARE GREATFUL EACH DAY FOR YOUR SERVICE AND YOU ARE FOREVER IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. WE TRULY WILL NEVER FORGET YOU.
WE’VE LIVED 2 LIFETIMES SINCE YOU DIED AND THERE ISN’T 1 DAY THAT GOES BY WITHOUT YOU BEING IN MY THOUGHTS. YOU’VE MADE ME A BETTER MAN.
BROTHERS, EVERYDAY THE CHALLENGES THAT I FACE ARE EASED BY KNOWING THAT YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION TO KEEP MOVING FORWARD NO MATTER WHAT.
SEMPER FI D.R. FOLEY
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE GIVEN FOR ME. MY FAMILY, AND OUR NATION. BRAVE MEN LIKE YOU DEFEND OUR FREEDOM AND MAKE AMERICA THE BEST COUNTRY IN THE WHOLE WORLD. YOU MAKE ME PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN
KAREN CECIL
YOU MAGNIFICANT GUYS GAVE ALL. YOU WILL BE FOREVER YOUNG IN THE MEMORY OF YOUR FRIENDS, FELLOW MARINES AND LOVED ONES. YOU EARNED THE RIGHT TO REJOICE AND REST IN PEACE!
SEMPER FI!
IF I COULD GO BACK IN TIME, I WOULD GLADLY GIVE MY LIFE SO MY 566 BROTHERS WHO DIED IN COMBAT COULD BE HERE IN MY PLACE TONIGHT
CPL JOSEPH A. HAMRICK
HOW COULD WE EVER THANK YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FOR YOUR SERVICE AND SACRIFICE. MAY YOU REST IN PEACE IN GOD’S HEAVENLY PLACES. WITH GREAT GRATITUDE FOR MY FREEDOM AND ALL AMERICANS. GOD BLESS YOU
BRENDA STAMPER
I WAS A NURSING STUDENT DURING 1966-1969 AND MY KNOWLEDGE OF THE WAR CONSISTED OF THE DAILY ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE NUMBERS OF AMERICAN LOSS OF LIFE IN VIETNAM. MY UNDERSTANDING HAS GROWN EXPODENTIALLY IN THE YEARS SINCE. MOST OF IT HAS COME DURING THE DAYS OF THE 1/7 REUNION. I AM SO PROUD AND SO GRATEFUL TO ALL WHO SERVED AND CONTINUE TO SERVE. HONORED TO BE HERE.
MARIE COLE
TO MY FALLEN BROTHERS
YOU’RE NOT FORGOTTEN. YOU LIVE ON WITHIN ME AND MY FAMILY. GUNNY CRAWFORD, YOU WOULD BE SO PROUD OF YOUR SONS THOMAS AND JAMES. THEY HAVE KEPT THE TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS. LIVE ON! OOHRAH
TO OUR FALLEN MARINES,
“THANK YOU” JUST DOSEN’T SEEM LIKE ENOUGH, BUT IT’S ALL WE HAVE. YOU ARE OUR HEORS AND THE REASON WE ARE FREE. WE HOLD YOU IN OUR HEARTS AND IN THE EYES OF EVERY MARINE STANDING TALL TO THIS DAY.
SEMPER FIDELIS LORI JOLLY PERRINGER PROUD DAUGHTER OF A MARINE
I DO NOT KNOW YOUR NAME BROTHER. I LOOKED INTO YOUR EYES, STARING BLANKLY INTO THE SKY ONLY FOUR YARDS FROM WHERE I MET YOU. AS I CARRIED ANOTHER BROTHER FROM OBJECTIVE 6 ON THE UPSLOPE BEFORE HILL 502. TOTALLY OUTNUMBERED I WAS OUT OF M-79 ROUNDS. YOU STOOD WITH ME IN THE DARK. IN THE MORNING YOUR LIFE WAS ON THE GROUND.
THANKS BROTHER.
TO THANK YOU SEEMS TO LITTLE FOR ALL THESE MEN WHO HAVE GAVE THEIR ALL FOR EACH AND EVERYONE OF US HERE, BIT IN OUR HEARTS THE LOSS IS FELT AFTER ALL THESE LONG YEARS LATER
TO MY PLATOON CMDR., LT TYRONE PANNELL, YOUR HEART AND LOVE FOR YOUR TROOPS WAS AS BIG AS YOU WERE TALL. REST IN PEACE, DELTA CO. HAS YOUR BACK – SGT. SAL OLIVAS
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY AND FOR MAKING THE SUPREME SACRIFICE. AS A DAUGHTER OF A BROTHER WHO MADE IT HOME. I THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO KEEP MY DAD SAFE SO HE COULD COME HOME AND BECOME MY DAD. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU.
I LOVE YOU BROTHERS. I MISS YOU DAILY. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART AND MIND. TILL WE MEET AGAIN.
SGT. TOM (TINY) VEIGH
TO THE FALLEN BROTHERS OF THE 1/7
THANK YOU FOR YOUR ULTIMATE SACRIFICE AND THE COMRADERIE YOU PROVIDED MY FATHER DURING THE TIME YOU SHARED IN VIETNAM. NEITHER OF THOSE WILL BE FORGOTTEN.
THE SACRIFICES MADE BY ONE FALLEN MARINE EMBODIES THE VALUES THAT HAVE MADE OUR COUNTRY SO GREAT.
ANDY IVERSON BN. SURGEON 1/7 68-69
I WOULD LIKE TO TELL YOU ALL THAT WE HAVE LIVED OUR LIVES, MARRIED, HAD CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN AND OWE MUCH TO YOUR SACRIFICES. WE HAVE NOT AND WILL NEVER FORGET YOU OR SERVING WITH YOU.
SEMPER FI CPL EVANS C CO. 1/7
TO THE MARINES WHO LOST THEIR LIVES ON 31 JAN 1968 AND 12 FEB 1968 YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN – YOU ARE REMEMBERED AT EVERY 1/7 MARINE REUNION SEMPER FI
BECAUSE OF YOUR SACRIFICES MY GRANDCHILDREN ARE FREE
THANK YOU
WAIT FOR ME GUYS. I WON’T BE TOO LATE TO STAND THE 2 TO 4 WATCH AT THE PEARLY GATE SEMPER FI THOM TOWELL B-1/7
OH MY…..THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE FOR US. I’M SO HAPPY YOU HAVE GONE TO BE WITH OUR LOVING FATHER – YOU WILL NEVER SUFFER AGAIN – YOU NOW CAN BE CUDDLED AND PROTECTED – ENVELOPED IN THE LOVE OF THE LORD – WE MISS YOU AND WISH WE COULD HUG YOU-WE ANXIOUSLY AWAIT THE DAY WE CAN GIVE YOU OUR LOVE AND APPRECIATION AGAIN.
HUGS AND BLESSINGS MJ
THIS IS MY SECOND REUNION AND THE MEMORIAL SERVICES IN YOUR HONOR IS GREAT. ALL WAR IS TERRIBLE AND SENSELESS AND TO ME A WASTE OF LIFE. BUT WITH OUR REUNIONS YOUR SACRIFICES WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN. WE HAVE TO KEEP YOUR MEMORY ALIVE AND NEVER FORGOTTEN WITHIN US.
THANK YOU BROTHERS – REST IN PEACE. SECURE A PLACE FOR US.
SGT. MACK FERRICK
MARINE – THROUGH THE SUNLIGHT I HEAR YOU VOICE BUT YOU PRESENCE IS DIM. I KNOW THE PATH YOU CHOSE IS ONE I SHALL FOLLOW AND WILL. IN DOING SO I WILL PRESERVE YOUR MEMORY AND CAUSE OF DUTY. THANK YOU FOR GIVING MY MILITARY CAREER MEANING AND HONOR. STAY TRUE TO THE BATTLE PLAN AND TOGETHER WE WILL KEEP THE LIGHT BURING STRONG, MARINE STRONG E-5 SGT. USMC
2ND LT. DON BROOKS
I REGRET YOU CAN’T BE HERE TO CELEBRATE THIS GREAT EVENT WITH ME, THE BN REUNION. AS YOU WERE IN A1/7. I’M CELEBRATING B1/7 AND D1/7 REUNION
LOVE DAD
I TALKED TO THE GUYS I WAS WITH OFTEN AND I’M GLAD THAT THEY ANSWER
THANK YOU MARINES FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY. YOU ARE IN HEAVEN LOOKING DOWN ON US AS WE PAY RESPECT TO MARINES FOR THEIR WONDERFUL SERVICE DIXIE FORREST
TOUR FELLOW MARINES ARE CONFRATULATED TONIGHT TO HONOR YOUR SACRIFICE. WE WANT YOU TO KNOW WE MISS YOU.
WELL BROTHERS I MADE IT. LIFE IS GOOD NOW, THINGS HAVE CHANGED….YEA WE ARE IN THE 21ST CENTURY. I WISH SO VERY MUCH WE COULD ALL BE HERE TOGETHER
GEORGE WOODLING JR.
TO ALL CHARLIE 1/7 68/69
THANK YOU ALL FOR BECOMING BOB’S FAMILY AND FOR GETTING HIM HOME AGAIN. WHEN I COME TO THESE REUNIONS I FEEL LIKE ONE OF A SPECIAL FAMILY TOO. GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU ALL
STEPHENS, I WISH I COULD HAVE HELPED YOU.
MY VERY 1ST TIME TO THE WALL AT A 1/7 REUNION I HAD A STRANGE EXPERIENCE AS WE PASSED THE PANELS. WITHOUT KNOWING, I FOUND A HIGH SCHOOL FRIEND DANNY NELSON AS IF HE REACHED OUT TO ME. THEN AS WE WENT FURTHER ON I FOUND THOMAS CALLAHAN WHO FRED WAS LOOKING FOR WITHOUT KNOWING WHAT PANEL HIS NAME RESTED. I BELIEVE THOSE WHOM WAIT FOR US ARE REACHING OUT TO LET US KNOW THEY ARE WAITING FOR US IN THE HEREAFTER. AND WE ARE HERE TO REMEMBER THEY WALK AMONG US AND ARE WAITING FOR US TO JOIN THEM SOME DAY. THOSE WHO CAME HOME ARE HERE TO THOSE WHO DID NOT HAVE THE HONOR OF KEEPING THEIR LIVES ALIVE FOR ALL OF US WHO NEVER SAW THE WARRIORS FIGHT FOR OUR FREEDOMS LOVE ALWAYS LINDA BULLIS
IT WAS A PLEASURE TO SHARE THE SAME GROUND YOU DID THANK YOU
DOC DICK BAXTER
YOU WENT MUCH TO SOON, BIT I WAS PROUD TO CALL YOU A FRIEND, I’VE TALKED TO YOUR BROTHER AND HE IS VERY PROUD OF YOUR SERVICE AND OF YOU. REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND
AS LONG AS YOUR NAMES ARE SPOKEN, YOU WILL LIVE FOREVER
MY WISH FOR YOU IS THAT YOU COULD KNOW THE RESPECT AND PRIDE SHOWERED ON YOU TODAY. MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILIES WHO STILL FEEL YOUR LOSS GOD BLESS YOU ALL
FOR THE FALLEN – THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD AS WE THAT ARE LEFT GROW OLD. THE YEARS SHALL NOT WEARY THEM NOR TIME CONDEM. AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN AND IN THE MORNING, WE SHALL REMEMBER THEM.
LTC LAWRENCE BINYON 1914