He was a great influence in my life and I failed to let him know how much he was admired, respected and appreciated by his peers. He was only 18 years of age when he became a Marine but the honor, commitment, and integrity that he demonstrated in fulfilling his duty surpassed that of anyone I have ever know. You were so above all of us in all respects that when you were in our presence we were in such awe. We look to you as the true Hero that you are. You are one of a kind and very special to have had the ability to affect us so profoundly that not even time or distance could deter our memory of you. I am proud to have known you. Forty years have gone by since last seeing you but never forgotten.
Over the years, I have learned about the insurmountable conditions that you had to endure while in Viet Nam. I am sorry for what you had to go through, eternally grateful to God for protecting you.
Thank You.
Fans from Corpus Christi, Texas
May 24, 2004