Memorial Day: Thomas Chase

My Memorial Day was spent as usual, in a reflective mode. Thoughts once again divert back to the late 60's when boys grew up to be men very quickly. Unfortunately for so many, this transition from boys to men was too short.

Memorial Day is a time of remembrance and for honoring all the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in all wars and conflicts. 

The young men and women who served and whose lives were lost as a result of the Vietnam War shall never be forgotten. That is not because of any stone or granite memorials built in DC or many other cities, states, etc., but because they will forever be remembered in the hearts and minds of their loved ones and comrades.

Politicians and other figures make speeches, sporting events, hold flyovers, and all the news channels have programs dealing with the parades and other events of the day. That is simply (in their opinion), something that is mandated, something to be done to honor those on Memorial Day once a year.

I guess Memorial Day, to me, is no different than any other day of the year, because to me every day IS "Memorial Day".  Memories arise every day.  Thoughts of those who did not return home with me linger every day of the year. Thus, every day is one of remembrance and not forgetting the men and women with whom I served with in 1969-1970 in the "Land of the Little People".

May they all  Rest In Peace  forever and ever.
Thomas Chase

Specialist Fifth Class E-5
US ARMY - 101st AIRBORNE DIVISION
October 1969 – October 1970 (1 year 1 month)
I Corp - Republic of South Vietnam
Air Crewman (Crew Chief-Gunner) aboard UH-1H (Huey)
Base Camp - Camp Eagle (I Corp - RSVN)
163rd Aviation Company - 101st Airborne Division


“I am only one, but I am one. I can't do everything, but I can do something. The something I ought to do, I can do, and by the grace of God, I will.” ~Everett Hale