My Dad had a faith in God, a love for his country and family.

He served during the Korean War and when he died from burns from a fire aboard the USS Oriskany stationed in the Gulf of Tonkin off the coast of North Viet Nam it was his third tour of duty. He loved to fly those Navy jets. He was only 42 years old. His sister sent me a CD of his voice that I had never heard. The last time I heard his I was only 13. His sister, my Aunt Harriet, loved her brother and has given me very special stories of my dear dad over the years.

I miss my dad and I love him very much. I always will. I love you, Dad. Thank you for your service to God and country. We will never know what you what you and the rest all who gave their lives in service went through when you were away for so long defending our freedom.

Thank you, Dad. Talk to you next Memorial Day!

Lost his life ..oh so young,
Left behind ..were we..
missed so much…
A family ..that will never be……..
Love you Dad….

I never had the chance to get to know Dad until I met a few of his buddies from Vietnam. Thank you guys for sharing the person you knew!!

Dad, I missed you being there physically for birthdays, graduations, my wedding, and the birth of your only grandson. Thanks for always letting me feel you around me. I love the person I have discovered you were, and I am proud to be your daughter!!

Love from your ‘Baby Girl’