Homeless veteran to receive military burial
Area groups honor a man whose life remains a mystery
The Journal Gazette
Rosa Salter Rodriguez
March 30, 2016
A U.S. Army veteran who died homeless in Fort Wayne earlier this month will be given a military funeral today with the aid of several area veterans’ groups.
John Pawlowski, 69, died March 5 at Parkview Hospital of natural causes stemming from septic shock, according to Michael Burris, chief investigator for the Allen County coroner’s office. Septic shock is a full-body infection that causes organ shutdown.
Pawlowski’s birthdate, May 17, 1947, and his military service were verified through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Burris said. But much of his life remains a mystery, and no family members willing to step forward to claim the body could be found, he said.
Nonetheless, contacts made through the Dignity Memorial Homeless Veterans Burial Program by staff members at Fort Wayne’s Klaehn, Fahl and Melton funeral home have yielded a chaplain to conduct the services, as well as members of about a half-dozen area veterans groups who make a practice of participating in military funerals.
They include the Indiana Patriot Guard Riders and American Freedom Riders motorcycle groups; members of American Legion Post 241 in Waynedale; a group of Army members in active service; and representatives of Fort Wayne’s Safe Haven home for veterans struggling with addiction.
David Wilson, Safe Haven’s regional program director, said the agency will receive the American flag typically given to members of a veteran’s family – even though Safe Haven never had contact with Pawlowski.
“To me, it’s tragic when you have someone who served his country and dies and has nothing and no one. It’s tragic, but it happens,” Wilson said, adding that it has happened two or three times in the Fort Wayne area in the past two years.
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Showing posts with label Vietnam War. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vietnam War. Show all posts
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Thursday, March 24, 2016
VA Commemoration of the Vietnam War
VA to Commemorate 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War
Exemplifies a MyVA priority to Improve the Veteran Experience While Thanking
Vietnam Veterans and Their Families
WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) today announced it will conduct hundreds of events in VA facilities across the nation on Mar. 29 to recognize, honor and thank U.S. Vietnam Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifices as part of the national Vietnam War Commemoration.
VA Secretary Robert McDonald will host a wreath-laying ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial – “The Wall” to initiate VA’s contribution to the Commemoration. He will be joined by Defense Secretary Ashton Carter. “We are proud to partner with the Department of Defense in this endeavor. Secretary Carter’s Vietnam War Commemoration staff has greatly assisted us in planning this humble tribute to our Vietnam Veterans and their families.”
VA, along with more than 9,000 organizations across the country, has joined with the Department of Defense as a Commemorative Partner to help Americans honor our nation’s Vietnam Veterans.
Authorized by Congress, established under the Secretary of Defense, and launched by the President in May 2012, the Vietnam War Commemoration recognizes all men and women who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces from November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975. Nine million Americans, approximately 7 million living today, served during that period, and the Commemoration makes no distinction between Veterans who served in-county, in-theater, or were stationed elsewhere during those 20 years. All answered the call of duty.
“This Commemoration has special significance for those of us at VA because of our honored mission to serve those who have “borne the battle,” said McDonald. “It’s also an opportunity to remember our VA colleagues who served in this generation of Veterans, to extend our heartfelt appreciation to them and to their families who shared the burden of their loved one’s service.”
More than 329 VA medical centers, regional benefit offices and national cemeteries will host events, many in partnership with local Veteran service organizations and volunteers.
By presidential proclamation issued on May 25, 2012, the Commemoration extends from its inaugural event on Memorial Day 2012 through Veterans Day 2025.
Commemorative Partners – local, state and national organizations, businesses, corporations and governmental agencies – have committed to publicly thank and honor Vietnam Veterans and their families on behalf of the nation and have pledged to host a minimum of two events annually.
To learn more click here Vietnam War Commemoration
Exemplifies a MyVA priority to Improve the Veteran Experience While Thanking
Vietnam Veterans and Their Families
WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) today announced it will conduct hundreds of events in VA facilities across the nation on Mar. 29 to recognize, honor and thank U.S. Vietnam Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifices as part of the national Vietnam War Commemoration.
VA Secretary Robert McDonald will host a wreath-laying ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial – “The Wall” to initiate VA’s contribution to the Commemoration. He will be joined by Defense Secretary Ashton Carter. “We are proud to partner with the Department of Defense in this endeavor. Secretary Carter’s Vietnam War Commemoration staff has greatly assisted us in planning this humble tribute to our Vietnam Veterans and their families.”
VA, along with more than 9,000 organizations across the country, has joined with the Department of Defense as a Commemorative Partner to help Americans honor our nation’s Vietnam Veterans.
Authorized by Congress, established under the Secretary of Defense, and launched by the President in May 2012, the Vietnam War Commemoration recognizes all men and women who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces from November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975. Nine million Americans, approximately 7 million living today, served during that period, and the Commemoration makes no distinction between Veterans who served in-county, in-theater, or were stationed elsewhere during those 20 years. All answered the call of duty.
“This Commemoration has special significance for those of us at VA because of our honored mission to serve those who have “borne the battle,” said McDonald. “It’s also an opportunity to remember our VA colleagues who served in this generation of Veterans, to extend our heartfelt appreciation to them and to their families who shared the burden of their loved one’s service.”
More than 329 VA medical centers, regional benefit offices and national cemeteries will host events, many in partnership with local Veteran service organizations and volunteers.
By presidential proclamation issued on May 25, 2012, the Commemoration extends from its inaugural event on Memorial Day 2012 through Veterans Day 2025.
Commemorative Partners – local, state and national organizations, businesses, corporations and governmental agencies – have committed to publicly thank and honor Vietnam Veterans and their families on behalf of the nation and have pledged to host a minimum of two events annually.
To learn more click here Vietnam War Commemoration
Friday, March 18, 2016
Purple Heart Fake Ran Non-Profit Posing As Vietnam-Gulf War Marine
San Rafael gym owner accused of impersonating decorated veteran
SF Gate
By Jenna Lyons
March 17, 2016
A San Rafael gym owner spent years telling people he was a war hero, convincing donors he was awarded the Purple Heart as he persuaded them to give more than $20,000 to a veteran nonprofit and his own military recruit training program, authorities said.
But officials say he lied about receiving the nation’s oldest honor and bought Purple Heart ribbons to con donors into believing his story.
Gregory Bruce Allen, 68, was charged in the U.S. District Court of San Francisco Wednesday with fraudulent representations about receipt of military decoration or medals, a misdemeanor. He faces up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine, officials said.
read more here
SF Gate
By Jenna Lyons
March 17, 2016
Allen hosted annual fundraisers starting in 2010, dressing the part of a decorated war veteran as he raised money for the “Helping Heroes from Home” nonprofit, also known as Triple H, and his recruit training program. Allen said he was a lieutenant with the United States Marine Corps who served in the Vietnam War and the Gulf War, officials said.
But officials say he lied about receiving the nation’s oldest honor and bought Purple Heart ribbons to con donors into believing his story.
Gregory Bruce Allen, 68, was charged in the U.S. District Court of San Francisco Wednesday with fraudulent representations about receipt of military decoration or medals, a misdemeanor. He faces up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine, officials said.
read more here
Friday, March 4, 2016
Navy Veterans Want Navy to Fight For Them After Agent Orange Struck
Sick Navy vets hunt for decades-old records to prove they should get Agent Orange benefits
The Virginian-Pilot
By Mike Hixenbaugh
Charles Ornstein
Terry Parris Jr.
ProPublica
1 hr ago
The Navy could find out where each of its ships operated during the war, but it hasn’t. The U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs says it won’t either, instead choosing to research ship locations on a case-by-case basis, an extra step that veterans say can add months – even years – to an already cumbersome claims process. Bills that would have forced the Navy to create a comprehensive list have failed in Congress.
The Virginian-Pilot
By Mike Hixenbaugh
Charles Ornstein
Terry Parris Jr.
ProPublica
1 hr ago
“It's hell,” said Ed Marciniak, of Pensacola, Fla., who served aboard the Norfolk-based USS Jamestown during the war. “The Navy should be going to the VA and telling them, ‘This is how people got aboard the ship, this is where they got off, this is how they operated.’ Instead, they put that burden on old, sick, dying veterans, or worse – their widows.”During the Vietnam War, hundreds of U.S. Navy ships crossed into Vietnam's rivers or sent crew members ashore, possibly exposing their sailors to the toxic herbicide Agent Orange. But more than 40 years after the war’s end, the U.S. government doesn't have a full accounting of which ships traveled where, adding hurdles and delays for sick Navy veterans seeking compensation.
The Navy could find out where each of its ships operated during the war, but it hasn’t. The U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs says it won’t either, instead choosing to research ship locations on a case-by-case basis, an extra step that veterans say can add months – even years – to an already cumbersome claims process. Bills that would have forced the Navy to create a comprehensive list have failed in Congress.
Some 2.6 million Vietnam veterans are thought to have been exposed to – and possibly harmed by – Agent Orange, which the U.S. military used to defoliate dense forests, making it easier to spot enemy troops. But vets are only eligible for VA compensation if they went on land – earning a status called “boots on the ground” – or if their ships entered Vietnam’s rivers, however briefly.
read more here
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Seventy Four Names Missing From Vietnam Memorial Wall?
Man Fights for Brother to Be Included on Vietnam Memorial
The Marin Independent Journal, Novato, Calif.
by Stephanie Weldy
Feb 29, 2016
Seeing the names of those he had known inscribed on the granite wall in Washington D.C. would have been too difficult, he said.
When Reilly did at last visit it in 1999, he was shocked. The name of his younger brother was missing. The 20-year-old died, along with 73 others, aboard the USS Frank E. Evans in an accidental collision in the South China Sea in 1969.
As he would learn, the omission of Lawrence Reilly Jr.'s name, and those of the other fallen men — dubbed "The Lost 74" — was no accident. Now 47 years since his brother's death, Reilly, 70, is not done fighting. He is involved in a campaign to have the names of those killed aboard the USS Evans added to the wall.
"Ultimately, of course we'd like the 74 names added to the wall," Reilly said.
"Space is going to be a problem so it may be necessary to make some kind of accommodation. Whatever accommodation needs to be made, it should be made."
In the early hours of June 3, 1969, the USS Evans, a Navy destroyer carrying 272 men, was ripped in two during Operation Sea Spirit, a training exercise involving more than 40 ships of allied countries.
After one flawed move by the USS Evans 225 miles off the coast of Vietnam, the HMAS Melbourne, an Australian carrier, tore into the ship, killing 74 men. The brothers' father, Lawrence Reilly Sr., was also aboard the ship as a U.S. Navy master chief, but survived.
read more here
The Marin Independent Journal, Novato, Calif.
by Stephanie Weldy
Feb 29, 2016
The 20-year-old died, along with 73 others, aboard the USS Frank E. Evans in an accidental collision in the South China Sea in 1969.For years, Novato resident and Vietnam War veteran Jim Reilly had no interest in visiting the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.
When Reilly did at last visit it in 1999, he was shocked. The name of his younger brother was missing. The 20-year-old died, along with 73 others, aboard the USS Frank E. Evans in an accidental collision in the South China Sea in 1969.
As he would learn, the omission of Lawrence Reilly Jr.'s name, and those of the other fallen men — dubbed "The Lost 74" — was no accident. Now 47 years since his brother's death, Reilly, 70, is not done fighting. He is involved in a campaign to have the names of those killed aboard the USS Evans added to the wall.
"Ultimately, of course we'd like the 74 names added to the wall," Reilly said.
"Space is going to be a problem so it may be necessary to make some kind of accommodation. Whatever accommodation needs to be made, it should be made."
In the early hours of June 3, 1969, the USS Evans, a Navy destroyer carrying 272 men, was ripped in two during Operation Sea Spirit, a training exercise involving more than 40 ships of allied countries.
After one flawed move by the USS Evans 225 miles off the coast of Vietnam, the HMAS Melbourne, an Australian carrier, tore into the ship, killing 74 men. The brothers' father, Lawrence Reilly Sr., was also aboard the ship as a U.S. Navy master chief, but survived.
read more here
Veteran Poisoned by Agent Orange Finally Gets VA Disability
Veteran wins benefits after FOX 2 Agent Orange report
FOX 2 Now
BY CHRIS HAYES
FEBRUARY 29, 2016
(KTVI) - A military veteran suspected to have been exposed to Agent Orange feared the VA would deny him benefits, waiting for him to die. Now a huge change since our story after an unexpected government response.
One week after our FOX Files investigation about vets denied benefits for exposure to Agent Orange, Bill Casto received a 27 page letter with a surprising acknowledgement.
Casto read from the letter, “It says ‘VA memorandum, herbicide exposure conceded dated February 5 2016.’ After all these years since 2009, when I originally filed my claim they`re admitting now that I was exposed to herbicide.”
He got the letter February 5th, one week after our report when Casto told us, “Deny, deny, deny until you die is what we say.”
67-years old and hooked to oxygen, he suspected the VA may be waiting him out.
Casto said, “There`s thousands of us in the same boat, thousands of us.”
read more here
FOX 2 Now
BY CHRIS HAYES
FEBRUARY 29, 2016
Casto emailed us this morning, after our follow up interview, with even better news. He titled the e-mail "we won!" and went on to explain that the VA awarded him a 70% overall disability rating. He said after seven years of dealing with the VA on this, he believes he's now won the battle.
One week after our FOX Files investigation about vets denied benefits for exposure to Agent Orange, Bill Casto received a 27 page letter with a surprising acknowledgement.
Casto read from the letter, “It says ‘VA memorandum, herbicide exposure conceded dated February 5 2016.’ After all these years since 2009, when I originally filed my claim they`re admitting now that I was exposed to herbicide.”
He got the letter February 5th, one week after our report when Casto told us, “Deny, deny, deny until you die is what we say.”
67-years old and hooked to oxygen, he suspected the VA may be waiting him out.
Casto said, “There`s thousands of us in the same boat, thousands of us.”
read more here
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
VA Still Denies Navy Veterans Agent Orange Claims
Veterans Affairs again denies Agent Orange benefits to Navy vets
Virginia Pilot
By By Charles Ornstein and Terry Parris Jr.
ProPublica
22 hrs ago
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has once again turned down an effort by Navy veterans to get compensation for possible exposure to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War.
In a document released Friday, the VA said it would continue to limit benefits related to Agent Orange exposure to only those veterans who set foot in Vietnam, where the herbicide was sprayed, and to those who were on boats in inland rivers.
The VA compensates these veterans for a litany of associated illnesses, including diabetes, various cancers, Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathy and a type of heart disease.
Advocates for some 90,000 so-called Blue Water Navy veterans who served off the coast of Vietnam have been asking the VA for more than a decade to broaden the policy to include them. They say they were exposed to Agent Orange because their ships sucked in potentially contaminated water and distilled it for showering, drinking, laundry and cooking. Experts have said the distillation process could have actually concentrated the Agent Orange, which contained the toxic chemical dioxin and was used to kill vegetation and deny enemy cover.
read more here
Virginia Pilot
By By Charles Ornstein and Terry Parris Jr.
ProPublica
22 hrs ago
“Rather than siding with veterans, VA is doubling down on an irrational and inconsistent policy,” Senator Richard Blumenthal
In a document released Friday, the VA said it would continue to limit benefits related to Agent Orange exposure to only those veterans who set foot in Vietnam, where the herbicide was sprayed, and to those who were on boats in inland rivers.
The VA compensates these veterans for a litany of associated illnesses, including diabetes, various cancers, Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathy and a type of heart disease.
Advocates for some 90,000 so-called Blue Water Navy veterans who served off the coast of Vietnam have been asking the VA for more than a decade to broaden the policy to include them. They say they were exposed to Agent Orange because their ships sucked in potentially contaminated water and distilled it for showering, drinking, laundry and cooking. Experts have said the distillation process could have actually concentrated the Agent Orange, which contained the toxic chemical dioxin and was used to kill vegetation and deny enemy cover.
read more here
Share your story
ProPublica and the Virginian-Pilot are interested in hearing from veterans and family members for our ongoing investigation into the effects of Agent Orange on veterans and their children.
Sunday, February 7, 2016
Navy Veteran Lives in Storage Unit
Hope and Honor: U.S. Navy veteran calls storage unit his home (VIDEO)
The Daily Courier
Nanci Hutson
February 7, 2016
He maneuvers through a narrow passageway lined with wood-framed photographs and old calendars. He turns left, and heads down a wider aisle between a maze of wood-making tools, a metal-frame bunk bed, and a row of rocking horses he designed and crafted in this very space.
On the rear wall is a dorm-sized refrigerator, a microwave, crock pot and coffee pot. He brews fresh coffee with bottled water. Across from where he stands is a lime green sofa turned on its side, blocking off a less cluttered space where he has mounted copies of his bachelor's and master's degrees from Northern Arizona University and a portrait taken in his U.S. Navy uniform during the Vietnam War.
The drafty space is warmed by a small, propane heater located next to a tray table covered with Findlay's daily medications and wine bottle bird-feeders he hopes to sell at local craft fairs.
read more here
The Daily Courier
Nanci Hutson
February 7, 2016
"I've tried to talk to him about a lot of things, but he's done this for years," declared homeless advocate Jean Lutz, the founder and director of Everybody's Place, an art-related program for the homeless. Findlay relies on Lutz for rides to the VA and other appointments, describing her as one of his "best pals."
Les Stukenberg/The Daily Courier A U.S. Navy veteran, Richard Findlay lives in a large storage unit in the Prescott area.PRESCOTT - Richard Findlay's motorized walker crunches on the snow-covered driveway as he slowly glides toward his hillside storage unit, the metal door squawking as he steps inside out of the frigid air.
He maneuvers through a narrow passageway lined with wood-framed photographs and old calendars. He turns left, and heads down a wider aisle between a maze of wood-making tools, a metal-frame bunk bed, and a row of rocking horses he designed and crafted in this very space.
On the rear wall is a dorm-sized refrigerator, a microwave, crock pot and coffee pot. He brews fresh coffee with bottled water. Across from where he stands is a lime green sofa turned on its side, blocking off a less cluttered space where he has mounted copies of his bachelor's and master's degrees from Northern Arizona University and a portrait taken in his U.S. Navy uniform during the Vietnam War.
The drafty space is warmed by a small, propane heater located next to a tray table covered with Findlay's daily medications and wine bottle bird-feeders he hopes to sell at local craft fairs.
read more here
Monday, January 4, 2016
Fallen Soldier’s Father Dies Days After Son’s Burial
Gatesville: Fallen Soldier’s Father Dies Days After Son’s Burial
KWTX News
Our Town Texas
Paul J. Gately
January 1, 2016
GATESVILLE (January 1, 2016) The father of a soldier who died during the Vietnam War and who was repatriated just last month has died five days after his son was buried at the Texas State Veteran’s cemetery in Killeen.
Billy Hugh Hill, 91, father of U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Billy David Hill, died December 22 in Gatesville, just five days after the soldier’s remains were repatriated.
The younger Hill died in Vietnam in 1968 near Khe Sanh when his helicopter was shot down.
His December 17 funeral was attended by veterans from across the nation, including a dozen or so Vietnam veterans who served with him.
Billy Hugh Hill, a former truck driver, was too ill to attend his son’s funeral but was able to watch parts of the ceremony on News 10, his daughter said.
The elder Hill did meet with some of his son’s Vietnam buddies after the funeral.
His health had declined in the three weeks leading up to the funeral.
read more here
KWTX News
Our Town Texas
Paul J. Gately
January 1, 2016
Billy Hugh Hill, 91, father of U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Billy David Hill, died December 22 in Gatesville, just five days after the soldier’s remains were repatriated.
The younger Hill died in Vietnam in 1968 near Khe Sanh when his helicopter was shot down.
His December 17 funeral was attended by veterans from across the nation, including a dozen or so Vietnam veterans who served with him.
Billy Hugh Hill, a former truck driver, was too ill to attend his son’s funeral but was able to watch parts of the ceremony on News 10, his daughter said.
The elder Hill did meet with some of his son’s Vietnam buddies after the funeral.
His health had declined in the three weeks leading up to the funeral.
read more here
Friday, December 25, 2015
Christmas Tree in Vietnam Spreading Joy Since 1968
Christmas tree used during Vietnam War bringing joy to veteran in Middletown
The Intelligencer
By Anthony DiMattia, staff writer
Posted: Friday, December 25, 2015
But this wasn't any regular parcel for a soldier away at war; it was something much more symbolic: a Christmas tree.
"I was the only one there with a Christmas tree," said Tellado, now a member of the Delaware Valley Vietnam Veterans. "We sang and did everything around that tree."
Fast forward 47 years and that same 2½-foot tree is now bringing joy to another Vietnam veteran: Middletown resident Jesse Hill.
As a show of camaraderie, Tellado gave the tree to his fellow DV3 member.
read more here
The Intelligencer
By Anthony DiMattia, staff writer
Posted: Friday, December 25, 2015
Chloe Elmer/PhotojournalistIt was December 1968 when Ferdie Tellado received a much needed care package from his wife while he was serving in Vietnam.
Veterans share Christmas tree that was bought during Vietnam
Vietnam Veteran Jesse Hill, left, received a Christmas tree from his friend Ferdie Tellado, center, which he had while serving in Vietnam on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2015. Hill and Ferdie are members of Delaware Valley Vietnam Veterans. Pictured right is Scott Tellado, a veteran of Iraq and Bosnia who also had the tree.
But this wasn't any regular parcel for a soldier away at war; it was something much more symbolic: a Christmas tree.
"I was the only one there with a Christmas tree," said Tellado, now a member of the Delaware Valley Vietnam Veterans. "We sang and did everything around that tree."
Fast forward 47 years and that same 2½-foot tree is now bringing joy to another Vietnam veteran: Middletown resident Jesse Hill.
As a show of camaraderie, Tellado gave the tree to his fellow DV3 member.
read more here
Christmas Truce During Vietnam War
A Christmas truce in Vietnam
The Guardian
Wednesday 8 December 1965
No war, or battle's sound/ Was heard the World around,/ The idle spear and shield were high up hung;/ The hooked chariot stood/ Unstain'd with hostile blood. The trumpet spake not to the armed throng.
Such was the first Christmas night, according to Milton. Now that bombs have replaced spears, and helicopters chariots, the Vietcong have taken on the role of the angels, and proclaimed, for twelve hours, peace on earth. It is easy to be cynical about the appeal, and no doubt in part justified. Obviously this is good propaganda, whether or not it is anything in addition.
The last armistice called by the Vietcong, for the Vietnamese festival of Tet in February, was scrupulously observed by them, but was followed immediately by the raids on US installations at Pleiku and elsewhere; and the war moved into a new and more terrible phase. Since then there has been no interruption in the killings ; all the more reason why the US leaders should respond like the shepherds, however dubious the angels.
The call is surely the sort of thing they should be watching for, to seize on. Critics of American policy are constantly being asked what they would do in President Johnson's place, and indeed, so much freedom of choice has been sacrificed over the past few years that there is no easy answer. He can, however, be urged, whenever a new choice does present itself, to take the more constructive course in preference to the more destructive.
If he cannot bring himself to suspend the bombing for an extended experimental period, he could at least contribute his half to a formal truce on Holy Night. That would not make negotiations more remote ; there is just a chance it might bring them nearer. Probably it would not. But some people would be alive on Christmas morning who would otherwise be dead, and that in itself would be justification enough.
read more here
The Guardian
Wednesday 8 December 1965
No war, or battle's sound/ Was heard the World around,/ The idle spear and shield were high up hung;/ The hooked chariot stood/ Unstain'd with hostile blood. The trumpet spake not to the armed throng.
Such was the first Christmas night, according to Milton. Now that bombs have replaced spears, and helicopters chariots, the Vietcong have taken on the role of the angels, and proclaimed, for twelve hours, peace on earth. It is easy to be cynical about the appeal, and no doubt in part justified. Obviously this is good propaganda, whether or not it is anything in addition.
The last armistice called by the Vietcong, for the Vietnamese festival of Tet in February, was scrupulously observed by them, but was followed immediately by the raids on US installations at Pleiku and elsewhere; and the war moved into a new and more terrible phase. Since then there has been no interruption in the killings ; all the more reason why the US leaders should respond like the shepherds, however dubious the angels.
The call is surely the sort of thing they should be watching for, to seize on. Critics of American policy are constantly being asked what they would do in President Johnson's place, and indeed, so much freedom of choice has been sacrificed over the past few years that there is no easy answer. He can, however, be urged, whenever a new choice does present itself, to take the more constructive course in preference to the more destructive.
If he cannot bring himself to suspend the bombing for an extended experimental period, he could at least contribute his half to a formal truce on Holy Night. That would not make negotiations more remote ; there is just a chance it might bring them nearer. Probably it would not. But some people would be alive on Christmas morning who would otherwise be dead, and that in itself would be justification enough.
read more here
Friday, December 18, 2015
Over 1,200 Attend Funeral for Vietnam Fallen Billy David Hill
More than 1,200 attend funeral for Vietnam veteran Billy David Hill
Killeen Daily Herald
Jacob Brooks Herald staff writer
December 17, 2015
The emotions were “overwhelming,” said Gatesville resident Beverly Jacobs, Hill’s cousin.
For decades, the family had wondered what happened to Hill, who disappeared after the helicopter he was on crashed near Khe Sahn in central Vietnam.
About a dozen veterans who served with Hill in Vietnam journeyed from around the nation to attend the funeral.
read more here
Killeen Daily Herald
Jacob Brooks Herald staff writer
December 17, 2015
Clay ThorpMore than 1,200 people, many of them Vietnam veterans, attended a military funeral service Thursday in Killeen for Sgt. 1st Class Billy David Hill, a platoon sergeant killed in Vietnam when his helicopter was shot down by enemy gunfire nearly 48 years ago.
Army soldiers fold the American flag and prepare to present it to the family of Sgt. 1st Class Billy David Hill on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015, at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen.
The emotions were “overwhelming,” said Gatesville resident Beverly Jacobs, Hill’s cousin.
For decades, the family had wondered what happened to Hill, who disappeared after the helicopter he was on crashed near Khe Sahn in central Vietnam.
About a dozen veterans who served with Hill in Vietnam journeyed from around the nation to attend the funeral.
read more here
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
I was only 19’: Classic Redgum song about Vietnam War PTSD
Brings back a lot of memories. My husband was only 19 in Vietnam. We met in 1982. That was when I started researching PTSD and what has become such a big part of my life. Just got a little weepy after finding the video of the song below so done posting for the day.
I was only 19’: Classic Redgum song about Vietnam War PTSD to be added to 'Sounds of Australia' collection
International Business
By Alice Hennen
December 15 2015
Australian singer John Schumann performs for Vietnam War veterans from Australia at the greyhound in Vung Tau city, 100 km (62 miles) southeast of Ho Chi Minh city August 17, 2006. The veterans will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Long Tan battle, one of the bloodiest, if not biggest, battles Australia was involved in during the Vietnam War. Reuters/KhamWhen folk band Redgum frontman John Schumann penned the classic, “I was only 19 (A walk in the light green)” in 1983, he was writing it for the soldiers who upon returning home, felt disconnected from civilian life and alienated by the government.
This song, written from the perspective of a soldier returned from the Vietnam War, has now been added to “Sounds of Australia”, a collection of historically, culturally and aesthetically significant sounds established by the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia.
Schumann drew inspiration for the song from his brother-in-law, who served in Vietnam and was a member of the Vietnam Veterans’ Association of Australia.
read more here
Sunday, December 6, 2015
Florida Veterans Unclaimed Remains from 4 Wars Laid to Rest
Unclaimed remains of war veterans laid to rest at Lake Worth cemetery
Sun Sentinel
Erika Pesantes
December 6, 2015
Up to a quarter century after their deaths, the cremated remains of 14 war veterans and the spouses of another seven service members were finally given a dignified burial under stormy skies.
Those veterans, who served in World War I and II, and the Korean and Vietnam wars, were laid to rest at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth thanks to volunteers from the non-profit, Missing in America Project.
"Each one that we lay to rest today is a hero. You, men, who we bury today, we say goodbye to you with thankful hearts because you've embodied heroism," guest speaker Brian Mast said. "And because you've embodied bravery on our behalf and on behalf of your own families and on behalf of our grateful nation."
read more here
Linked from Stars and Stripes
Sun Sentinel
Erika Pesantes
December 6, 2015
On Saturday, laid to rest were: Jack Legan, Frank H. Vadurro, Charles J. Valkenburg, Carol Andre Shepherd, Jacob S. Cohen, Ignatius Patrick Crisci, John Joseph Fitzgerald, Wayne Andrew Ludwig, Frank Wilfred O' Hara Jr., John Edward Lee, Charles William Morton, James Edward Sullivan, William Vaselekos and Louis Walter Harvey, Jr.
Army Major Michael Flynn inters the remains of U.S. Army Corpral Jack Legan as Marshall Murphy of the South Florida National Cemetary looks on. Veterans and volunteers were on hand at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth to take part in the burial ceremony for the Missing in America Project. The nonprofit locates, identifies and inters the unclaimed cremated remains of veterans, spouses and dependents that have sat on funeral home shelves for decades. During the ceremony the unclaimed remains of 14 veterans and seven veterans' spouses were interred. December 5, 2015. Jim Rassol, Sun Sentinel.The mahogany urns bore gold plaques that read: "You are not forgotten." On Saturday, they were remembered for their heroic acts.
(Jim Rassol / Sun Sentinel)
Up to a quarter century after their deaths, the cremated remains of 14 war veterans and the spouses of another seven service members were finally given a dignified burial under stormy skies.
Those veterans, who served in World War I and II, and the Korean and Vietnam wars, were laid to rest at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth thanks to volunteers from the non-profit, Missing in America Project.
"Each one that we lay to rest today is a hero. You, men, who we bury today, we say goodbye to you with thankful hearts because you've embodied heroism," guest speaker Brian Mast said. "And because you've embodied bravery on our behalf and on behalf of your own families and on behalf of our grateful nation."
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Linked from Stars and Stripes
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Homeless Veteran "Riddled with Gunshot Wounds"
Police: Investigation into homeless vet's death continuing
Houma Today
By Maki Somosot Staff Writer
November 30, 2015
The body of Edward Crowley, of Kirkglen Loop, was found riddled with gunshot wounds in a field near the 2600 block of Truman Street.
“We’re making progress, interviewing witnesses and analyzing our evidence, but we haven’t identified a suspect yet,” Coleman said.
Crowley's death marks the fourth shooting death in Terrebonne Parish over the past two months, preceded by Ernest Simms, 38, Corey Butler, 18, and Robert Swan, 24. Suspects have been arrested in connection with these three deaths.
Tri-Parish Veterans Shelter director and local Disabled Americans Veteran chapter president Roger Songe said that Crowley became homeless since filing for veterans benefits late last year. He did not notice any signs of drug or alcohol use on the Vietnam Era vet.
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Houma Today
By Maki Somosot Staff Writer
November 30, 2015
“He was truly a kind soul. It’s hard to read the path his life had taken him.” James InmanPolice are continuing to make headway in their investigation of the Nov. 13 shooting that killed a homeless veteran, Houma Police Chief Dana Coleman said.
The body of Edward Crowley, of Kirkglen Loop, was found riddled with gunshot wounds in a field near the 2600 block of Truman Street.
“We’re making progress, interviewing witnesses and analyzing our evidence, but we haven’t identified a suspect yet,” Coleman said.
Crowley's death marks the fourth shooting death in Terrebonne Parish over the past two months, preceded by Ernest Simms, 38, Corey Butler, 18, and Robert Swan, 24. Suspects have been arrested in connection with these three deaths.
Tri-Parish Veterans Shelter director and local Disabled Americans Veteran chapter president Roger Songe said that Crowley became homeless since filing for veterans benefits late last year. He did not notice any signs of drug or alcohol use on the Vietnam Era vet.
read more here
Monday, November 23, 2015
Southeast Asian Refugees Face Deportation
Forty Years After Resettlement, Thousands of Southeast Asian Refugees Face Deportation
NBC News
by JUSTINE CALMA
November 23, 2015
Ros was born in Cambodia in 1974, one year before the capital, Phnom Penh, fell to the Khmer Rouge — a Communist regime that would ultimately claim the lives of two million Cambodians. Because his family was connected to the military—his grandfather had been a lieutenant colonel before the war—Ros, his parents, and siblings were targeted by the Khmer Rouge and detained.
His father was killed and his mother was tortured and beaten, Ros said.
Ros also has memories from the dangerous journey his family took when they escaped to Thailand in 1978: bombs, fires, dead bodies floating down the river.
But Ros says he considers himself and his siblings lucky to have survived long enough to reach a refugee camp and be sponsored by a Catholic organization for resettlement in the United States.
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NBC News
by JUSTINE CALMA
November 23, 2015
Over the past two decades, more than 13,000 Cambodian, Vietnamese, and Laotian Americans have been served deportation orders, according to the Southeast Asia Resource Action Center. Advocates say those communities live in constant fear of being relocated from their homes.
David Ros, second from the left, stands for a photo with his siblings, mother, and extended family. Ros and his family, who fled Cambodia together, are wearing T-shirts donated to them once they reached a refugee camp in Thailand. Courtesy of David RosMemories of captivity are still vivid for David Ros. "I remember clearly the hunger," Ros told NBC News. "And [I remember] the crying and the foraging for anything I [could] find that was edible."
Ros was born in Cambodia in 1974, one year before the capital, Phnom Penh, fell to the Khmer Rouge — a Communist regime that would ultimately claim the lives of two million Cambodians. Because his family was connected to the military—his grandfather had been a lieutenant colonel before the war—Ros, his parents, and siblings were targeted by the Khmer Rouge and detained.
His father was killed and his mother was tortured and beaten, Ros said.
Ros also has memories from the dangerous journey his family took when they escaped to Thailand in 1978: bombs, fires, dead bodies floating down the river.
But Ros says he considers himself and his siblings lucky to have survived long enough to reach a refugee camp and be sponsored by a Catholic organization for resettlement in the United States.
read more here
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Vietnam War Deaths 90,220 1955 to 1975
Who Do We Forget Paid The Price?
Wounded Times
Kathie Costos
November 15, 2015
When we talk about veterans we fail to talk about how many witnessed the deaths of their brothers and sisters in service. For every servicemember killed in war there are many survivor witnesses who will never forget.
How many is something that we may convince ourselves we know, but the truth is, we never really know the true cost of war. The worst thing is that our own government doesn't seen to know either.
Too many politicians call Afghanistan the longest war, including the President.
In 1955 they started dying in Vietnam and did not stop dying there until May of 1975. So how was this forgotten?
How is it that the American public believes there were less than 60,000 killed in Vietnam?
That was from PBS How many Americans have died in U.S. wars?
The dates are from 1956 to 1975 with more added up to 2006. They include 38,224 Army deaths, 2,586 Air Force deaths, 2,559 Navy deaths and 14,844 Marine deaths and 7 Coast Guard deaths.
What about all the others?
Where did the 90,220 Vietnam War Deaths on the PBS image come from? The Department of Veterans Affairs "Other Deaths in Service (Non-Theater) 32,000 and it came from "Covers period 11/1/55 – 5/15/75""
Think about that for a second. Aside from all the years they were fighting and dying in Vietnam, there were also 32,000 killed, forgotten about in all the talk about Vietnam.
Naturally this does not even touch on all those who paid the price because of Agent Orange.
It does not include those who died due to suicide from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder but with both of these, we'll never get the true number until every Vietnam veteran is in the grave. Even then it is doubtful especially when they can't even get the numbers that should be right, actually right to begin with.
So who do we forget about? What service is not good enough to remember? How many paid the price of retaining freedom? What life was not worth counting?
That is also happening today when the press keeps reporting "22 a day" is if that number was acceptable when it is not even close to the number of veterans in this country committing suicide every day. It may be easier to say but it sure as hell isn't making it any easier to live with.
Top that off with the simple fact that the majority of the veterans they bother to talk about are over the age of 50 and then, then you may be closer to the truth.
Wounded Times
Kathie Costos
November 15, 2015
When we talk about veterans we fail to talk about how many witnessed the deaths of their brothers and sisters in service. For every servicemember killed in war there are many survivor witnesses who will never forget.
How many is something that we may convince ourselves we know, but the truth is, we never really know the true cost of war. The worst thing is that our own government doesn't seen to know either.
Too many politicians call Afghanistan the longest war, including the President.
Statement by the President on the End of the Combat Mission in AfghanistanIn October of 2001 troops were sent into Afghanistan and as of this month there are 9,000.
"Today's ceremony in Kabul marks a milestone for our country. For more than 13 years, ever since nearly 3,000 innocent lives were taken from us on 9/11, our nation has been at war in Afghanistan. Now, thanks to the extraordinary sacrifices of our men and women in uniform, our combat mission in Afghanistan is ending, and the longest war in American history is coming to a responsible conclusion."
In 1955 they started dying in Vietnam and did not stop dying there until May of 1975. So how was this forgotten?
How is it that the American public believes there were less than 60,000 killed in Vietnam?
So then how did this happen?Memorial is dedicated to the 2.7 million men and women in the U.S. military who served in the designated war zone.With the addition of six names added in 2010 the total is now 58,272 names listed on the Memorial. Approximately 1200 of these are listed as missing (MIA's, POW's, and others).
Vietnam Conflict Total 8,744,000, Total Deaths 58,220 Battle Deaths 47,434 Other 10,786This is from the National Archives
Statistical Information about Fatal Casualties of the Vietnam War
The dates are from 1956 to 1975 with more added up to 2006. They include 38,224 Army deaths, 2,586 Air Force deaths, 2,559 Navy deaths and 14,844 Marine deaths and 7 Coast Guard deaths.
What about all the others?
Where did the 90,220 Vietnam War Deaths on the PBS image come from? The Department of Veterans Affairs "Other Deaths in Service (Non-Theater) 32,000 and it came from "Covers period 11/1/55 – 5/15/75""
Think about that for a second. Aside from all the years they were fighting and dying in Vietnam, there were also 32,000 killed, forgotten about in all the talk about Vietnam.
Naturally this does not even touch on all those who paid the price because of Agent Orange.
AGENT ORANGE CASUALTIES KEEP MOUNTING
"roughly 2.8 million U.S. military personnel — out of 7.4 million total — who served in Vietnam between 1962 and 1971 and were exposed to Agent Orange, one of several potent defoliants deployed by the military to destroy the Vietnamese jungle and, along with it, the enemy's hiding place."
It does not include those who died due to suicide from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder but with both of these, we'll never get the true number until every Vietnam veteran is in the grave. Even then it is doubtful especially when they can't even get the numbers that should be right, actually right to begin with.
So who do we forget about? What service is not good enough to remember? How many paid the price of retaining freedom? What life was not worth counting?
That is also happening today when the press keeps reporting "22 a day" is if that number was acceptable when it is not even close to the number of veterans in this country committing suicide every day. It may be easier to say but it sure as hell isn't making it any easier to live with.
Top that off with the simple fact that the majority of the veterans they bother to talk about are over the age of 50 and then, then you may be closer to the truth.
Vietnam War Still The Longest in US History
Veterans draw comparisons between Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan
Daily Press
Ali Rockett
November 14, 2015
Five decades later and still weary from the war that was never officially declared, many of these veterans know all too well how extended fighting, waning public support, and an unrelenting enemy can end.
"We certainly didn't win in Vietnam," said Hugh Bassette, an infantryman during the war in Southeast Asia, "and we're not going to the win in Afghanistan and Iraq, either."
Vietnam was America's longest conflict, spanning 12 years between 1961 and 1973, until our involvement in Afghanistan continued into its 13th year in 2014. There are still nearly 10,000 U.S. services members there advising and training a reluctant home force against the Taliban, a fundamentalist Islamic political movement accused of allowing terror groups such as Al-Qaeda safe haven.
read more here
Daily Press
Ali Rockett
November 14, 2015
While the battlefields in Iraq and Afghanistan have been more urban than the jungles and rice paddies of Vietnam, the issue of being able to identify an enemy combatant from civilians remains.
Many Vietnam veterans see similarities between their war and those fought in Iraq and Afghanistan — and the comparison is tragic.
Hugh Bassette served in the Army as a clerk and in theinfantry in 1969-1970 in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam.(Jonathon Gruenke / Daily Press)
Five decades later and still weary from the war that was never officially declared, many of these veterans know all too well how extended fighting, waning public support, and an unrelenting enemy can end.
"We certainly didn't win in Vietnam," said Hugh Bassette, an infantryman during the war in Southeast Asia, "and we're not going to the win in Afghanistan and Iraq, either."
Vietnam was America's longest conflict, spanning 12 years between 1961 and 1973, until our involvement in Afghanistan continued into its 13th year in 2014. There are still nearly 10,000 U.S. services members there advising and training a reluctant home force against the Taliban, a fundamentalist Islamic political movement accused of allowing terror groups such as Al-Qaeda safe haven.
read more here
Great article with the wrong facts. Vietnam is still the longest war in US history. It was almost 20 years long. This is from the Vietnam Memorial Wall PageBut if you ask a Vietnam veteran when he was there, the answer is usually "Last night."
Richard B. Fitzgibbon, of North Weymouth, Mass. is listed by the U.S. Department of Defense as having a casualty date of June 8, 1956.And these were the last
1975 was the year that the last 18 casualties (Daniel A. Benedett, Lynn Blessing, Walter Boyd, Gregory S. Copenhaver, Andres Garcia, Bernard Gause, Jr., Gary L. Hall, Joseph N. Hargrove, James J. Jacques, Ashton N. Loney, Ronald J. Manning, Danny G. Marshall, James R. Maxwell, Richard W. Rivenburgh, Elwood E. Rumbaugh, Antonio Ramos Sandovall, Kelton R. Turner, Richard Vande Geer) occurred on May 15th during the recapture of the freighter MAYAGUEZ and its crew.
Friday, October 23, 2015
Albany Vietnam Memorial Vanalized
Vietnam memorial vandalized with profanity-laced graffiti
WNYT.com
10/22/2015
The clean-up is complete, but the investigation, far from over.
Unfortunately, part of the spray paint remains. You can still see the words, albeit faintly. Veterans are angry and they hope whoever did this will so be caught.
The words stood out -- big black letters -- spray painted on the beige surface of the Vietnam Veteran’s Monument in the middle of Lafayette Park: “F--- Militarism,” read the sign.
read more here
WNYT.com
10/22/2015
The monument was unveiled back in 1992, honoring more than 70 members of the military from Albany County, who were killed in Vietnam. In more than two decades, no one has ever touched it.ALBANY - Vandals hit a Vietnam Memorial in Albany, defacing it with profanity laced graffiti.
Authorities discovered the explicit graffiti Thursday morning on the Albany County Vietnam Veterans memorial at Lafayette Park.Vandalism at the Vietnam Memorial in Albany.Photo: WNYT
The clean-up is complete, but the investigation, far from over.
Unfortunately, part of the spray paint remains. You can still see the words, albeit faintly. Veterans are angry and they hope whoever did this will so be caught.
The words stood out -- big black letters -- spray painted on the beige surface of the Vietnam Veteran’s Monument in the middle of Lafayette Park: “F--- Militarism,” read the sign.
read more here
Saturday, October 10, 2015
Living with PTSD for over 40 years, he's found solace in art
National Veterans Creative Arts Festival
US Department of Veterans Affairs
The Department of Veterans Affairs and the American Legion Auxiliary.
The National Veterans Creative Arts Festival (NVCAF) is the celebration and grand finale stage and art show, which are the culmination of talent competitions in art, creative writing, dance, drama and music for Veterans treated in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) national health care system.
Approximately 120 Veterans will exhibit their artwork or perform musical, dance, dramatic or original writing selections in a gala variety show. A professional orchestra will accompany the performance. All Veterans invited to participate are selected winners of year-long, national fine arts talent competitions in which thousands of Veterans enter, from VA medical facilities across the nation.
VA medical facilities incorporate creative arts into their recreation therapy programs to further the rehabilitation milieu for both inpatients and outpatients. This annual competition recognizes the progress and recovery made through that therapy, and raises the visibility of the creative achievements of our Nation’s Veterans after disease, disability or life crisis.
Navy Veteran Robert Monize served aboard the USS Newport News during the Vietnam War. Living with PTSD for over 40 years, he's found solace in art.
The Department of Veterans Affairs and the American Legion Auxiliary.
The National Veterans Creative Arts Festival (NVCAF) is the celebration and grand finale stage and art show, which are the culmination of talent competitions in art, creative writing, dance, drama and music for Veterans treated in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) national health care system.
Approximately 120 Veterans will exhibit their artwork or perform musical, dance, dramatic or original writing selections in a gala variety show. A professional orchestra will accompany the performance. All Veterans invited to participate are selected winners of year-long, national fine arts talent competitions in which thousands of Veterans enter, from VA medical facilities across the nation.
VA medical facilities incorporate creative arts into their recreation therapy programs to further the rehabilitation milieu for both inpatients and outpatients. This annual competition recognizes the progress and recovery made through that therapy, and raises the visibility of the creative achievements of our Nation’s Veterans after disease, disability or life crisis.
Navy Veteran Robert Monize served aboard the USS Newport News during the Vietnam War. Living with PTSD for over 40 years, he's found solace in art.
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