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Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial 11/11/89 [OA 6344] [1]
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Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial 11/11/89 [OA 6344] [1]
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Speech Backup Chronological Files
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Backup Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13694
Folder ID Number:
13694-002
Folder Title:
Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial 11/11/89 [OA 6344] [1]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
26
19
4
7
TX VietnAm
CAlls
Bankett (11)
Def (+) 272-0313
Dwisht Oland
Spm Johnson (512) (214)396-0229 -
Jack (1111)
Romona Carbajol (915) 856-5537
Poul Groy XII (314)265-7246
Adv (11)
591-5912
Library (1)
2523-3073
World Encyclo tilli
Amer Here the Quot. (11
Mot LIIIIII
Q.B
Letter
-
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 8, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
CURT SMITH
as
SUBJECT:
TEXAS VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL
I. SUMMARY
On Saturday, November 11, at 10:54 a.m., you will address
about 20,000 people at the dedication of the Texas Vietnam
Veterans Memorial in Dallas. Governor Clements will introduce
you. Chaplain Adickes; Paul Russell, President of the Board of
the Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial; and B.G. "Jug" Burkett and
Art Ruff, co-chairmen of the board, will be present on the dais.
II. DISCUSSION
The attached remarks (11 minutes; speechcards due to
forecast of wind) pay tribute to the dedication and sacrifice of
Texas' Vietnam veterans. On page 5, the remarks describe a
letter you have received from Mrs. Connie McWright. This letter
and a 1968 letter she received from President Johnson are
attached to the speech.
(Smith/Blessey)
Draft Four
November 8, 1989
TEXAS
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VIETNAM MEMORIAL
DALLAS, TEXAS
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1989
10:50 A.M.
Governor Clements, Mr. Russell, Mr. Burkett, Mr. Ruff,
Chaplain Adickes, Mr. Wheeler, Members of the Foundation, Fellow
Veterans and Texans, My fellow Americans.
Thank you, Governor, for that generous introduction. It is
a privilege to be with you -- and to officially dedicate a
monument that is proud and patriotic and, thus, quintessentially
Texan. The Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
Memorials like these are the very embodiment of a Nation.
Expressing our deepest values, and our character as a people.
For we Americans navigate by such symbols. The St. Louis Arch,
pointing toward the West. The Statue of Liberty, its silhouette
a morning star of freedom. The Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials,
whose majesty proclaims the principle of self-government. Each
reflects what we are as a Nation and a people.
So it is here, today, for the Lone Star heroes of America's
Longest War. For this memorial moves us, inspires us. And its
lessons live as oral history -- passed from one generation to
another. This memorial is not mere stone and masonry, as
striking as they are. It is a tangible testament to America's
love for the living -- and for the dead.
2
Last year, nearly half of the visitors to America's Vietnam
memorials were boys and girls age 12 or younger. These children
don't remember the conflict in Southeast Asia. And when they
wonder, "What is this memorial all about?" we owe them an
answer. An answer whose honesty will be worthy of our veterans.
They will ask, first, "Who were these men and women?" --
these Lone Star heroes of Vietnam. And we must answer: They
were black and white, red and brown -- almost a quarter of the
names on this memorial are Hispanic. They were native-born and
foreign-born, the privileged and the poor. But most of all, they
were Americans. Americans from the barrios of San Antonio, the
city streets of Houston, and the vast expanse of western Texas.
Americans who were young, and often frightened. And so very far
from home.
Next, our kids will wonder: "What did they value?" -- these
brave young soldiers. And we must tell them: They valued
freedom. They valued human dignity. They loved the United
States of America. And so they overcame their fear -- which,
after all, is the very definition of courage. In a struggle
which -- like every war -- showed man's inhumanity to man, they
strove to prove man's fidelity to honor.
Then, our kids will pose a fundamental question: "Why were
these boys in Vietnam?" And we will say: Because to defend
democracy and liberty is always a valiant cause. From the fields
of Flanders to the rugged cliffs of Normandy. Whether scaling
Korea's hillsides. Or trudging through the rice paddies of the
3
Mekong. For liberty can ensure for individuals, choice; for
society, pluralism; and for Nations, self-determination.
Finally, our children will ask us: "How do we salute the
men who fought for freedom?" We salute them by never forgetting
that true peace means the triumph of freedom -- not merely the
absence of war. We salute them through memorials like this. And
by thanking the volunteers who made it possible. Vietnam vets.
Cities, towns, and communities. Foundations, organizations, and
other contributors. We honor them by giving all our vets the
hope and opportunity they have earned. And by teaching our
children what this memorial teaches us. About selflessness and
sacrifice. Qualities which know no generation.
Unlike other veterans, the brave boys who went to Vietnam
had to endure two wars. The first war was the battle waged in
swamps and jungles abroad. The second was fought for respect and
recognition at home and with the passage of time, they have
finally won the battle for the hearts of their countrymen.
The children who come here today and will come tomorrow
evidence that victory. They must know about the courageous
people whose names illuminate these tablets. The men who died
would want our kids to have the future they never knew. A future
without war and fear. Their sacrifice helped make that future
possible.
Lincoln termed such sacrifice "that last full measure of
devotion." And we must never forget it. For if the Texans we
4
honor today could speak, they might say, "Praise us as you will
-- but above all, we want to be remembered."
Today, we remember the Lone Star heroes of America's Longest
War. And through them, heroes throughout our history --
America's uniformed sons and daughters who took up arms and bore
our burden for a cause larger than themselves.
Today, we remember the more than 3 million Americans who
served in Vietnam -- among them, so many proud Texans. Men like
Plano's Sam Johnson, a prisoner for 7 years in what they called
the Hanoi Hilton. Tortured, but never defeated. Now a State
legislator.
This morning, we also remember America's wounded from the
Vietnam conflict -- and the many brave Texans who paid a heavy
price. They were proud of the United States. They make us proud
today.
And there are our missing or unaccounted for -- we remember
them, too. For while they may be missing in action -- and from
our lives -- MIAs are not missing from our thoughts nor from our
hearts. And so the POW-MIA flag now flies at the Vietnam
Veterans Memorial in Washington on Memorial Day, Veterans Day,
and POW-MIA Recognition Day. // And we will not rest until
every veteran is accounted for.
Finally, we remember the 58,175 Americans who gave their
lives in Vietnam. And the 3,427 brave men -- the third-largest
number of any State -- who came from over 600 Texas cities and
small towns. Men like Ruben Jose Carbajal [CAR-ba-hall] of El
5
Paso, only 21 when he was killed by a fragmentation device. And
Robert Larry Oakes from Lamesa -- only 20, killed by rifle fire.
Both died exactly 20 years ago today. Yes, think of these men,
honor them. Recall how they served in lonely places like Dak To
[TOE] and Khe Sanh [K-sahn].
Last month, I received a letter I'd like to share with you.
It was from Mrs. Connie McWright of Dallas. And in it she
talked of her family -- four sons, a daughter. And how she lost
two of those boys on the battlefields of Vietnam.
"Ed and Dale, " she wrote, "died with the Marines
They were both extremely proud to represent Texas
Ed asked
that I send him a Texas flag." She said his buddies called him
BIG TEX.
Several moments ago, I met with Mrs. McWright and her
daughter, Connie. For in her letter, she told me that each of
her children had a dream -- Ed, to be a baseball player; Dale, to
own a stable. Connie's dream, her mother said, had been to "one
day [shake] the hand of a President of the United States."
Mrs. McWright and Connie -- it is I who am honored to shake
your hands. For it is you -- and millions of other mothers,
fathers, daughters, and sons -- who embody the decency, service,
and courage that make this memorial such a monument to everything
that America is -- and can become.
This is your memorial. Ed and Dale's memorial. The
memorial which honors the spirit of the Alamo. And San Jacinto.
And earlier heroes named Travis and Houston and Bowie. Fellow
6
vets, I salute you. God bless you and God bless America. And
now, it is my great privilege to officially open this tribute to
the greatest sons and daughters any Nation could ever have -- the
Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
# # # #
25.R
11-11-39
911 St. Joseph Apt. 907
Dallas, TX 75246
October 22, 1989
Honorable President Bush and First Lady:
I admire both of you - for your patriotism - service to America -
and your obvious devotion to your family.
The McWright family was composed of mother, father, four sons and
a daughter. Most of us have lived in Dallas, Texas for 35 years.
Ed and Dale died with the Marines in Vietnam. Even though these
two fine men gave their best representing Texas (they both enlisted
in Dallas) neither of them was born here. Ed was born in Chicago,
Illinois and Dale in Hot Springs, Arkansas. They were both ex-
tremely proud to represent Texas though - Ed asked that I send
him a Texas flag (his buddies called him BIG TEX) and I have never
heard of a family who gave two sons in this conflict.
I understand there is a possibility you may attend the dedication
of the Texas Vietnam Memorial at Fair Park November 11th. I know
you know from experience that each child in a family has a dream -
my son Allen always wanted a farm - he has it in Kentucky - Ed wanted
to be a baseball king - Dale wanted a motorcycle and a stable -
Wayne wanted an antique car and is striving to get it - but Connie -
a devoted mother and now substitute school teacher - dreams of one
day shaking the hand of a PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
I am 72-years-old now and am wondering if you do attend the ceremony,
even with your strict necessary protection, if you could possibly
care enough to let her be close enough to you and Mrs. Bush to realize
her dream.
My daughter (Connie Bosher), my son Wayne and I will surely attend and
also I heard the other day that one of Ed's buddies he fought with in
Vietnam (and never knew before then) is bringing his wife to the dedication
to pay tribute ALL THE WAY FROM NEW JERSEY. They have already donated
$1,000 to help build the Memorial. It's almost eerie how close these
veterans living feel towards those who gave their lives. I will be happy
that Ed and Dale's names will be together in alphabetical order instead
of the way the Washington Memorial is arranged by service periods.
I wish both of you the best possible life serving America and hope to see
you in Dallas.
Respectfully,
Coorie V. Wright
Mrs. Connie McWright
Phone: (214) 824-2690
Connie Bosher's phone:
(214) 324-9835
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
February 27, 1968
Dear Mrs. McW right:
I return in a few hours to Washington. With me I will
carry part of your heartache and, I am thankful to say,
some of the great courage you have shown in face of
tragedy.
The loss of two good and brave sons on the battlefield
of freedom is the cruellest affliction. I wanted you to
know that Mrs. Johnson and I have offered prayers for
you here at the Ranch. We feel very close to you --
not only as nearness is measured by miles, but in
that special kinship we find in admiring the teachings
by which you raised your sons.
Your lessons have not been lost. They live in the
gallant example of Eddie and Dale. Boys they were;
but by their convictions they have taught countless
Americans to stand like men when freedom is threat-
ened and peace imperiled by aggression.
In achieving that, they have also given the inspiration
of your instruction to the world, promising all men a
better chance to "stand tall and walk straight. "
God bless you for that selfless gift. I pray that you
will find comfort in His mercy now. This nation
will always offer you the strength of its deep gratitude
and pride.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Connie McWright
4317 Gaston
Dallas, Texas
11/7/89
TX Victnam
Poul Groy (314) 263 - 7346
7,500 - 10,000 women served in Vietnam
Military Personmel Management
Women's Vixtnam Mumorial Project - 10,000
Woman
Vietnom erAl Militory from TX
21,461 21, 461
Vietnom
ero Women in Military from U.S.A.
262,000
Vietnom erA in Militory
586,000 in TX
Vietnam 8.3 erx in iz.S.Militory
Nome of 81 woman killed I on D.C. Memorial
Dru from TX
DOD Public Affoirs 695-9082
Col. Miguel Monteverde
History off. 272-0313
Dwight Oldnd
To S.B
Date IV8
Time 12:15
WHILE YOU WERE OUT
M Dwight Oland
of
Phone 272-0313.
Area Code
Number
Extension
TELEPHONED
PLEASE CALL
CALLED TO SEE YOU
WILL CALL AGAIN
WANTS TO SEE YOU
URGENT
RETURNED YOUR CALL
Message Vietnam = longest
war dependant upon
which date you used
Air
No into of # from
Texas.
Nuroes
Force
3 different figures of
Americans in Operator the
AMPAD
war.
G
EFFICIENCY@
23-020
on
2.15, 2.6,a In a 2.7 milli
Short
11-11-89
911 St. Joseph Apt. 907
Dallas, TX 75246
October 22, 1989
Honorable President Bush and First Lady:
I admire both of you - for your patriotism - service to America -
and your obvious devotion to your family.
The McWright family was composed of mother, father, four sons and
a daughter. Most of us have lived in Dallas, Texas for 35 years.
Ed and Dale died with the Marines in Vietnam. Even though these
two fine men gave their best representing Texas (they both enlisted
in Dallas) neither of them was born here. Ed was born in Chicago,
Illinois and Dale in Hot Springs, Arkansas. They were both ex-
tremely proud to represent Texas though - Ed asked that I send
him a Texas flag (his buddies called him BIG TEX) and I have never
heard of a family who gave two sons in this conflict.
I understand there is a possibility you may attend the dedication
of the Texas Vietnam Memorial at Fair Park November 11th. I know
you know from experience that each child in a family has a dream -
my son Allen always wanted a farm - he has it in Kentucky - Ed wanted
to be a baseball king - Dale wanted a motorcycle and a stable -
Wayne wanted an antique car and is striving to get it - but Connie -
a devoted mother and now substitute school teacher - dreams of one
day shaking the hand of a PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
I am 72-years-old now and am wondering if you do attend the ceremony,
even with your strict necessary protection, if you could possibly
care enough to let her be close enough to you and Mrs. Bush to realize
her dream.
My daughter (Connie Bosher), my son Wayne and I will surely attend and
also I heard the other day that one of Ed's buddies he fought with in
Vietnam (and never knew before then) is bringing his wife to the dedication
to pay tribute ALL THE WAY FROM NEW JERSEY. They have already donated
$1,000 to help build the Memorial. It's almost eerie how close these
veterans living feel towards those who gave their lives. I will be happy
that Ed and Dale's names will be together in alphabetical order instead
of the way the Washington Memorial is arranged by service periods.
I wish both of you the best possible life serving America and hope to see
you in Dallas.
Respectfully,
Coasee
U.
"Wright
Mrs. Connie McWright
Phone: (214) 824-2690
Connie Bosher's phone:
(214) 324-9835
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
February 27, 1968
Dear Mrs. McW right:
I return in a few hours to Washington. With me I will
carry part of your heartache and, I am thankful to say,
some of the great courage you have shown in face of
tragedy.
The loss of two good and brave sons on the battlefield
of freedom is the cruellest affliction. I wanted you to
know that Mrs. Johnson and I have offered prayers for
you here at the Ranch. We feel very close to you --
not only as nearness is measured by miles, but in
that special kinship we find in admiring the teachings
by which you raised your sons.
Your lessons have not been lost. They live in the
gallant example of Eddie and Dale. Boys they were;
but by their convictions they have taught countless
Americans to stand like men when freedom is threat-
ened and peace imperiled by aggression.
In achieving that, they have also given the inspiration
of your instruction to the world, promising all men a
better chance to "stand tall and walk straight. "
God bless you for that selfless gift. I pray that you
will find comfort in His mercy now. This nation
will always offer you the strength of its deep gratitude
and pride.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Connie McWright
4317 Gaston
Dallas, Texas
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
01. Notes
Handwritten notes, re: Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial;
10/26/89
P-6, (b)(6)
personal information redacted. (2 pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File, Backup
Subseries:
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial 11/11/89 [1]
Date Closed:
10/12/2004
OA/ID Number:
06344
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2004-2265-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIAJ
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
Memo for - the of
0/26/89 Texps Victnom coll Jack
learning
died on Not II, 1969
When kids
Ruben Jose Carbajol
they
844
El PASO
Seargant E-5
single, 21
killud 458-84-2720 by fragmentation device
Sfield thips
kids will are
Robert Larry Ooks & say doddy what's
Sorgent this all sbout
Lamesa, TX Memorials Dre. like
kinlled by rifle fire
20
463-88-0598
contact ;
Poul Groy past disc for mil. records
Notl Personnel Records Center
18 9700 Page Blvd
St. Louis, Miss. 63182
(314) 263-7246
Ex
P-6
Som Johnson (St. Legi) elected'84
(b)(6)
HAnoi Hilton POW for 7 yrs.
Drms Dre crippled
Ronald Cowart - Navy
d Storted Stare front Police
degree Cambrdians in slum went in
Dollas policemon, night school for x
storted Combod of Vict Lions club
crime dropped; less gangs
mode it cosual; people can have
coffee; KPd cops wolk the best;
take CAre of neighborhood problems
P-6,(6)(6)
Jose Troche - Army Afte. his then
OCS - sending Article
Fred Flom - HAnoi Hilton - POW
(h)
p-6,(b)(6)
personal friends,
given powder factory - had done business before
B possing through
folkbre
TX Victnom
155 Burkett BG 214
10,000 women
Vietnam Women's Mem. Project
$ women on Notl. Memorial
Sect of Def.
Asst. Sed. for
Ll 5 6700
Dost Sect for Manpower
11/7/89
Ruben Jose Carbrjal
Ramon Carbajo in E/ Peso
(458) (915)
Robert Lerry Ookes
Robert D Opkes } parents
Opal M. Opkes Wbilene
Ackerly
LAMUSA
Panl Gray (314) 263-7246 providing # ot women
Texps Vietnom Memorial
Jock Whenler 527-5153
Other state memorials
Allen Clork West Point '63
Worked hard in Texps
In TX, memorial location JAS controversial
Pitch Most visited speech place to all is Texans Stote Feirground
(214) 761-5100
WM
Chairmon of TXerent B.J. Burkutt
"Jugg" 800 527-7814
Senior Broker @ Prendential Bache
Hispanics, Blocks, X Women
noted for Medals of Honor
10/25/89
Texas Vietnam Memorial
More than 50,000
backdrop - Anerican Flog
bond of color gnord to left
& mayors who roised
a. mayors who raibed
bether for program
MIA
In the horsh reality of war
The Wounds that run deepest
These are the wounds that connot heal.
Are the wounds of uncertainty
For these Texons,
We pray that their fates will become known
And thatf their families friends * fellow veterans
There can finally be on end.
Though their destinies remoin unknown
their heroic service to their country
will not be forgotten.
Ronald Leonbrd Watson CAPT Dc. 11 Nor 44
Drch. Curp. in Morines Served 66-67
88 millimeter mortarman
2nd 12-4) brottollion 4th Morine regiment
in the Bar DMZ
I-Corp
13th month tour
back ps mortamon
hump the manntains w/ 100 lbs on your
Juff will send
list of notables
[5 detailed examples
Nov. 11, 1969 deaths
Stepa
VIETNAM MEMORIAL / DALLAS, TEXAS
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1989 / 10:50 A.M.
GOVERNOR CLEMENTS, MAYOR STRAUSS, MR. RUSSELL, MR.
BURKETT, MR. RUFF, CHAPLAIN ADICKES, MR. WRIGHT,
MEMBERS OF THE FOUNDATION, FELLOW VETERANS AND TEXANS,
MY FELLOW AMERICANS.
THANK YOU, GOVERNOR, FOR THAT GENEROUS
INTRODUCTION.
- 2 -
IT IS A PRIVILEGE BE WITH YOU -- AND To OFFICIALLY
DEDICATE A MONUMENT THAT IS PROUD AND PATRIOTIC AND,
THUS, Q INTESSENTIALLY TEXAN. THE TEXAS TIETNAM
VETERANS MEMORIAL.
MEMORIALS LIKE THESE ARE THE VERY EMBODIMENT OF A
NATION EXPRESSING OUR DEEPEST VALUES, AND OUR
CHARACTER AS A PEOPLE. FOR WE AMERICANS NAVIGATE BY
SUCH SYMBOLS. THE ST. LOUIS ARCH, POINTING TOWARD THE
WEST.
- 2 -
IT IS A PRIVILEGE TO BE WITH YOU -- AND TO OFFICIALLY
DEDICATE A MONUMENT THAT IS PROUD AND PATRIOTIC AND,
THUS, QUINTESSENTIALLY TEXAN. THE TEXAS VIETNAM
VETERANS MEMORIAL.
FOUR TIMES IN THIS CENTURY, THE SONS OF AMERICA
HAVE CROSSED THE OCEANS TO FIGHT FOR THE FREEDOM OF
OTHERS. THEIR BLOOD HAS CONSECRATED GROUND IN PLACES
WELL KNOWN AND OBSCURE; FROM THE ARGONNE TO
BOUGAINVILLE; FROM OMAHA BEACH TO INCHON; AND FROM CON
THIEN ((KON TEE-EN)) TO THE MEKONG DELTA.
- 2A -
BECAUSE THEY GAVE THE LAST FULL MEASURE OF
DEVOTION, OUR NATION IS AT PEACE. AND BECAUSE OF THEM,
THE PEACEFUL IDEALS OF AMERICA ARE NOW THE IDEALS OF
THE WORLD.
LOOK TO THE VERY HEART OF EUROPE, TO BERLIN, AND
YOU WILL SEE A GREAT TRUTH SHINING BRIGHTER WITH EACH
PASSING DAY: THE QUEST FOR FREEDOM IS STRONGER THAN
STEEL, MORE PERMANENT THAN CONCRETE. IIII
- 2B -
VICTOR HUGO SAID NOTHING CAN STOP AN IDEA WHOSE
TIME HAS COME. MY FELLOW VETERANS: THE IDEA IS
DEMOCRACY. AROUND THE WORLD, THE 1990s WILL BE THE
DECADE OF DEMOCRACY.
MEMORIALS LIKE THESE ARE THE VERY EMBODIMENT OF A
NATION. EXPRESSING OUR DEEPEST VALUES, AND OUR
CHARACTER AS A PEOPLE. FOR WE AMERICANS NAVIGATE BY
SUCH SYMBOLS. THE ST. LOUIS ARCH, POINTING TOWARD THE
WEST.
- 3 -
THE STATUE OF LIBERTY, ITS SILHOUETTE A MORNING STAR OF
FREEDOM. THE LINCOLN AND JEFFERSON MEMORIALS, WHOSE
MAJESTY PROCLAIMS THE PRINCIPLE OF SELF-GOVERNMENT.
EACH REFLECTS WHAT WE ARE AS A NATION AND A PEOPLE.
So IT IS HERE, TODAY, FOR THE LONE STAR HEROES OF
AMERICA'S LONGEST WAR. FOR THIS MEMORIAL MOVES US,
INSPIRES US. AND ITS LESSONS LIVE AS ORAL HISTORY --
PASSED FROM ONE GENERATION TO ANOTHER. THIS MEMORIAL
IS NOT MERE STONE AND MASONRY, AS STRIKING AS THEY ARE.
- 4 -
IT IS A TANGIBLE TESTAMENT TO AMERICA'S LOVE FOR THE
LIVING -- AND FOR THE DEAD.
LAST YEAR, NEARLY HALF OF THE VISITORS TO
AMERICA'S VIETNAM MEMORIALS WERE BOYS AND GIRLS AGE 12
OR YOUNGER. THESE CHILDREN DON'T REMEMBER THE CONFLICT
IN SOUTHEAST ASIA. AND WHEN THEY WONDER, "WHAT IS THIS
MEMORIAL ALL ABOUT?" WE OWE THEM AN ANSWER. AN ANSWER
WHOSE HONESTY WILL BE WORTHY OF OUR VETERANS.
- 5 -
THEY WILL ASK, FIRST, "WHO WERE THESE MEN AND
WOMEN?" -- THESE LONE STAR HEROES OF VIETNAM. AND WE
MUST ANSWER: THEY WERE BLACK AND WHITE, RED AND
BROWN -- ALMOST A QUARTER OF THE NAMES ON THIS MEMORIAL
ARE HISPANIC. THEY WERE NATIVE-BORN AND FOREIGN-BORN,
THE PRIVILEGED AND THE POOR. BUT MOST OF ALL, THEY
WERE AMERICANS.
- 6 -
AMERICANS FROM THE BARRIOS OF SAN ANTONIO, THE CITY
STREETS OF HOUSTON, AND THE VAST EXPANSE OF WESTERN
TEXAS. AMERICANS WHO WERE YOUNG, AND OFTEN FRIGHTENED.
AND so VERY FAR FROM HOME.
NEXT, OUR KIDS WILL WONDER: "WHAT DID THEY VALUE?"
-- THESE BRAVE YOUNG SOLDIERS. AND WE MUST TELL THEM:
THEY VALUED FREEDOM. THEY VALUED HUMAN DIGNITY. THEY
LOVED THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
- 7 -
AND so THEY OVERCAME THEIR FEAR -- WHICH, AFTER ALL, IS
THE VERY DEFINITION OF COURAGE. IN A STRUGGLE WHICH --
LIKE EVERY WAR -- SHOWED MAN'S INHUMANITY TO MAN, THEY
STROVE TO PROVE MAN'S FIDELITY TO HONOR.
THEN, OUR KIDS WILL POSE A FUNDAMENTAL QUESTION:
"WHY WERE THESE BOYS IN VIETNAM?" AND WE WILL SAY:
BECAUSE TO DEFEND DEMOCRACY AND LIBERTY IS ALWAYS A
VALIANT CAUSE. FROM THE FIELDS OF FLANDERS TO THE
RUGGED CLIFFS OF NORMANDY.
- 8 -
WHETHER SCALING KOREA'S HILLSIDES. OR TRUDGING THROUGH
THE RICE PADDIES OF THE MEKONG.
AND WE WILL TELL THEM, FURTHER, THE STORY OF THE
BOAT PEOPLE -- GALLANT MEN AND WOMEN WHO FLED THE
BRUTALITY AMERICA WAS FIGHTING. AND OF THAT MEMORABLE
DAY WHEN VIETNAMESE REFUGEES -- ALONE AND VULNERABLE,
THEIR BOAT SINKING -- WERE SPOTTED BY THE AIRCRAFT
CARRIER MIDWAY.
- 9 -
As THE CARRIER APPROACHED, MANY WERE CRYING. ALL WERE
WAVING. CALLING OUT IN BROKEN ENGLISH, "HELLO AMERICA
SAILOR! HELLO FREEDOM MAN!" WHEN OUR CHILDREN ASK,
"WHY WERE WE IN VIETNAM?" WE MUST POINT TO THE BOAT
PEOPLE AND SAY: "FOR THEM." FOR THE LIBERTY THAT CAN
ENSURE FOR INDIVIDUALS, CHOICE; FOR SOCIETY, PLURALISM;
AND FOR NATIONS, SELF-DETERMINATION.
FINALLY, OUR CHILDREN WILL ASK US: "How DO WE
SALUTE THE MEN WHO FOUGHT FOR FREEDOM?"
- 10 -
WE SALUTE THEM BY NEVER FORGETTING THAT TRUE PEACE
MEANS THE TRIUMPH OF FREEDOM -- NOT MERELY THE ABSENCE
OF WAR. WE SALUTE THEM THROUGH MEMORIALS LIKE THIS.
AND BY THANKING THE VOLUNTEERS WHO MADE IT POSSIBLE.
VIETNAM VETS. CITIES, TOWNS, AND COMMUNITIES.
FOUNDATIONS, ORGANIZATIONS, AND OTHER CONTRIBUTORS.
WE HONOR THEM BY GIVING ALL OUR VETS THE HOPE AND
OPPORTUNITY THEY HAVE EARNED.
- 11 -
AND BY TEACHING OUR CHILDREN WHAT THIS MEMORIAL TEACHES
US. ABOUT SELFLESSNESS AND SACRIFICE. QUALITIES WHICH
KNOW NO GENERATION.
UNLIKE OTHER VETERANS, THE BRAVE BOYS WHO WENT TO
VIETNAM HAD TO ENDURE TWO WARS. THE FIRST WAR WAS THE
BATTLE WAGED IN SWAMPS AND JUNGLES ABROAD. THE SECOND
WAS FOUGHT FOR RESPECT AND RECOGNITION AT HOME AND WITH
THE PASSAGE OF TIME, THEY HAVE FINALLY WON THE BATTLE
FOR THE HEARTS OF THEIR COUNTRYMEN.
- 12 -
THE CHILDREN WHO COME HERE TODAY AND WILL COME
TOMORROW EVIDENCE THAT VICTORY. THEY MUST KNOW ABOUT
THE COURAGEOUS PEOPLE WHOSE NAMES ILLUMINATE THESE
TABLETS. THE MEN WHO DIED WOULD WANT OUR KIDS TO HAVE
THE FUTURE THEY NEVER KNEW. A FUTURE WITHOUT WAR AND
FEAR. THEIR SACRIFICE HELPED MAKE THAT FUTURE
POSSIBLE.
LINCOLN TERMED SUCH SACRIFICE "THAT LAST FULL
MEASURE OF DEVOTION." AND WE MUST NEVER FORGET IT.
- 14 -
TODAY, WE REMEMBER THE MORE THAN 3 MILLION
AMERICANS WHO SERVED IN VIETNAM -- AMONG THEM, so MANY
PROUD TEXANS. MEN LIKE PLANO'S SAM JOHNSON, A PRISONER
FOR 7 YEARS IN WHAT THEY CALLED THE HANOI HILTON.
TORTURED, BUT NEVER DEFEATED. Now A STATE LEGISLATOR.
THIS MORNING, WE ALSO REMEMBER AMERICA'S WOUNDED
FROM THE VIETNAM CONFLICT -- AND THE MANY BRAVE TEXANS
WHO PAID A HEAVY PRICE. THEY WERE PROUD OF THE UNITED
STATES. THEY MAKE US PROUD TODAY.
- 13 -
FOR IF THE TEXANS WE HONOR TODAY COULD SPEAK, THEY
MIGHT SAY, "PRAISE US AS YOU WILL -- BUT ABOVE ALL, WE
WANT TO BE REMEMBERED."
TODAY, WE REMEMBER THE LONE STAR HEROES OF
AMERICA'S LONGEST WAR. AND THROUGH THEM, HEROES
THROUGHOUT OUR HISTORY -- AMERICA'S UNIFORMED SONS AND
DAUGHTERS WHO TOOK UP ARMS AND BORE OUR BURDEN FOR A
CAUSE LARGER THAN THEMSELVES.
- 15 -
AND THERE ARE OUR MISSING OR UNACCOUNTED FOR -- WE
REMEMBER THEM, TOO. FOR WHILE THEY MAY BE MISSING IN
ACTION -- AND FROM OUR LIVES -- MIAs ARE NOT MISSING
FROM OUR THOUGHTS NOR FROM OUR HEARTS. AND so THE POW-
MIA FLAG NOW FLIES AT THE VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL IN
WASHINGTON ON MEMORIAL DAY, VETERANS DAY, AND POW-MIA
RECOGNITION DAY. // AND WE WILL NOT REST UNTIL EVERY
VETERAN IS ACCOUNTED FOR.
- 16 -
FINALLY, WE REMEMBER THE 58,175 AMERICANS WHO GAVE
THEIR LIVES IN VIETNAM. AND THE 3,427 BRAVE MEN -- THE
THIRD-LARGEST NUMBER OF ANY STATE -- WHO CAME FROM OVER
600 TEXAS CITIES AND SMALL TOWNS. MEN LIKE RUBEN JOSE
CARBAJAL [CAR-BA-HALL] OF EL PASO, ONLY 21 WHEN HE WAS
KILLED BY A FRAGMENTATION DEVICE. AND ROBERT LARRY
OAKS FROM LAMESA -- ONLY 20, KILLED BY RIFLE FIRE.
BOTH DIED EXACTLY 20 YEARS AGO TODAY. YES, THINK OF
THESE MEN, HONOR THEM.
- 17 -
RECALL HOW THEY SERVED IN LONELY PLACES LIKE DAK
To [TOE] AND KHE SANH [K-SAHN].
LAST MONTH, I RECEIVED A LETTER I'D LIKE TO SHARE
WITH YOU. IT WAS FROM MRS. CONNIE MCWRIGHT OF DALLAS.
AND IN IT SHE TALKED OF HER FAMILY -- FOUR SONS, A
DAUGHTER. AND HOW SHE LOST TWO OF THOSE BOYS ON THE
BATTLEFIELDS OF VIETNAM.
- 18 -
"ED AND DALE," SHE WROTE, "DIED WITH THE
MARINES
THEY WERE BOTH EXTREMELY PROUD TO
REPRESENT TEXAS
ED ASKED THAT I SEND HIM A TEXAS
FLAG." SHE SAID HIS BUDDIES CALLED HIM BIG TEX.
SEVERAL MOMENTS AGO, I MET WITH MRS. MCWRIGHT, HER
DAUGHTER, CONNIE, AND SON, WAYNE. IN HER LETTER, SHE
TOLD ME THAT EACH OF HER CHILDREN HAD A DREAM -- WAYNE,
TO HAVE AN ANTIQUE CAR; ED, TO BE A BASEBALL PLAYER;
DALE, TO OWN A STABLE.
- 19 -
CONNIE'S DREAM, HER MOTHER SAID, HAD BEEN TO "ONE DAY
[SHAKE] THE HAND OF A PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES."
MRS. MCWRIGHT AND CONNIE -- IT IS I WHO AM HONORED
TO SHAKE YOUR HANDS. FOR IT IS YOU -- AND MILLIONS OF
OTHER MOTHERS, FATHERS, DAUGHTERS, AND SONS -- WHO
EMBODY THE DECENCY, SERVICE, AND COURAGE THAT MAKE THIS
MEMORIAL SUCH A MONUMENT TO EVERYTHING THAT AMERICA
IS -- AND CAN BECOME.
0
- 20 -
THIS IS YOUR MEMORIAL. ED AND DALE'S MEMORIAL.
THE MEMORIAL WHICH HONORS THE SPIRIT OF THE ALAMO. AND
SAN JACINTO. AND EARLIER HEROES NAMED TRAVIS AND
HOUSTON AND BOWIE. FELLOW VETS, I SALUTE YOU. GOD
BLESS YOU AND GOD BLESS AMERICA. AND NOW, IT IS MY
GREAT PRIVILEGE TO OFFICIALLY OPEN THIS TRIBUTE TO THE
GREATEST SONS AND DAUGHTERS ANY NATION COULD EVER
HAVE -- THE TEXAS VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL.
# # # #
11-11-89
911 St. Joseph Apt. 907
Dalias, TX 75246
October 22, 1989
Honorable President Bush and First Lady:
I admire both of you - for your patriotism - service to America -
and your obvious devotion to your family.
The McWright family was composed of mother, father, four sons and
a daughter. Most of us have lived in Dallas, Texas for 35 years.
Ed and Dale died with the Marines in Vietnam. Even though these
two fine men gave their best representing Texas (they both enlisted
in Dallas) neither of them was born here. Ed was born in Chicago,
Illinois and Dale in Hot Springs, Arkansas. They were both ex-
tremely proud to represent Texas though - Ed asked that I send
him a Texas flag (his buddies called him BIG TEX) and I have never
heard of a family who gave two sons in this conflict.
I understand there is a possibility you may attend the dedication
of the Texas Vietnam Memorial at Fair Park November 11th. I know
you know from experience that each child in a family has a dream -
my son Allen always wanted a farm - he has it in Kentucky - Ed wanted
to be a baseball king - Dale wanted a motorcycle and a stable -
Wayne wanted an antique car and is striving to get it - but Connie -
a devoted mother and now substitute school teacher - dreams of one
day shaking the hand of a PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
I am 72-years-old now and am wondering if you do attend the ceremony,
even with your strict necessary protection, if you could possibly
care enough to let her be close enough to you and Mrs. Bush to realize
her dream.
My daughter (Connie Bosher), my son Wayne and I will surely attend and
also I heard the other day that one of Ed's buddies he fought with in
Vietnam (and never knew before then) is bringing his wife to the dedication
to pay tribute ALL THE WAY FROM NEW JERSEY. They have already donated
$1,000 to help build the Memorial. It's almost eerie how close these
veterans living feel towards those who gave their lives. I will be happy
that Ed and Dale's names will be together in alphabetical order instead
of the way the Washington Memorial is arranged by service periods.
I wish both of you the best possible life serving America and hope to see
you in Dallas.
Respectfully,
Coaree V. mc wright
Mrs. Connie McWright
Phone: (214) 824-2690
Connie Bosher's phone:
(214) 324-9835
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
February 27, 1968
Dear Mrs. McWright:
I return in a few hours to Washington. With me I will
carry part of your heartache and, I am thankful to say,
some of the great courage you have shown in face of
tragedy.
The loss of two good and brave sons on the battlefield
of freedom is the cruellest affliction. I wanted you to
know that Mrs. Johnson and I have offered prayers for
you here at the Ranch. We feel very close to you --
not only as nearness is measured by miles, but in
that special kinship we find in admiring the teachings
by which you raised your sons.
Your lessons have not been lost. They live in the
gallant example of Eddie and Dale. Boys they were;
but by their convictions they have taught countless
Americans to stand like men when freedom is threat-
ened and peace imperiled by aggression.
In achieving that, they have also given the inspiration
of your instruction to the world, promising all men a
better chance to "stand tall and walk straight.' "
God bless you for that selfless gift. I pray that you
will find comfort in His mercy now. This nation
will always offer you the strength of its deep gratitude
and pride.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Connie McWright
4317 Gaston
Dallas, Texas
Stoffed
20,000
how seknowlimette many
10,
(Smith/Blessey)
Draft Three
November 6, 1989
Mayor Stronss
TEXAS
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VIET NAM MEMORIAL
DALLAS, TEXAS
Gon Clements
Art
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
Poul
Mr.
Ruffee
co-choirs
Choplainkes
RS
Mr. Wheeler, Mr. Russell, Mr. Burkett, Members of the
prus. of board
Foundation, Fellow Veterans and Texans, My fellow Americans.
Gov, Chements
Thank you, Jack, for that generous introduction. It is a
privilege to be with you -- and to officially dedicate a monument
that is proud and patriotic and thus, quintessentially Texan.
The Texas Viet Nam Veterans Memorial.
Memorials like these form the very embodiment of a Nation.
Expressing our deepest values, and our character as a people.
For we Americans navigate by such symbols. The St. Louis Arch,
Eneyclo
pointing toward the West. The Statue of Liberty, its silhouette
a morning star of freedom. The Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials,
whose majesty proclaims the principle of self-government. All
show that what we are matters more than what we have.
So it is here, today, for the Lone Star heroes of America's
A
Longest War. For this Memorial moves us, inspires us. And its
075-0313
lessons live as oral history -- passed from one generation to
another. This Memorial is not mere stone and masonry, as
striking as they are. It is a tangible testament to America's
love for the living -- and for the dead.
John williams -68"
Ronsect
w/
Jack
5mill
5
tot.
visibres
year
426
alswey
4185-9889
kids
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mill boys 12 or younger
Go
mill
girls
2
Last year, nearly half of the visitors to America's Viet
507-5133
Nam memorials were boys and girls age 12 or younger. These
children don't remember the conflict in Southeast Asia. And when
they wonder, "What is this memorial all about?" we owe them an
answer. An answer whose honesty will be worthy of our veterans.
They will ask, first, "Who were these men and women?" --
another P.435
these Lone Star heroes of Viet Nam. And we must answer: They
were black and white, red and brown -- almost a quarter of the
Hisponic
names on this memorial are Hispanic. They were native-born and
6/88 Weelys
foreign-born, the privileged and the poor. But most of all, they
jock intendia 7-3153
were Americans. Americans from the barrios of San Antonio, the
city streets of Houston, and the vast expanse of western Texas.
Americans who were young, and often frightened. And so very far
from home.
Next, our kids will wonder: "What did they value?" -- these
brave young soldiers. And we must tell them: They valued
freedom. They valued human dignity. They loved the United
States of America. And so they overcame their fear -- which,
after all, is the very definition of courage. In a struggle
which -- like every war -- showed man's inhumanity to man, they
strove to prove man's fidelity to honor.
Then, our kids will pose a fundamental question: "Why were
these boys in Viet Nam?" And we will say: Because to defend
democracy and liberty is always a valiant cause. From the fields
heroshies
History
of Flanders to the rugged cliffs of Normandy. Whether scaling
ir
Korea's uplands. Or trudging through the rice paddies of the
Pid.
4/4,
[mAy may kong]
3
Mekong. For liberty can ensure for individuals, choice; for
2014
society, pluralism; and for Nations, self-determination.
Finally, our children will ask us: "How do we salute the
men who fought for freedom?" We salute them by never forgetting
that true peace means the triumph of freedom -- not merely the
absence of war. We salute them through memorials like this. And
by thanking the volunteers who made it possible. Viet Nam vets.
Cities and towns. Foundations, organizations, and other
contributors. We honor them by giving all our vets the hope and
opportunity they have earned. And by teaching our children what
this memorial teaches us. About selflessness and sacrifice.
Qualities which know no generation or place.
Unlike other veterans, the brave boys who went to Viet Nam
Ameri
had to endure two wars. The first war was the battle waged in
swamps and jungles abroad. The second was the battle fought for
respect and recognition at home. If ultimate victory was denied
them in the first, victory is finally theirs in the second.
The children who come here today and will come tomorrow
evidence that victory. They must know about the courageous
people whose names illuminate these tablets. These men would
want our kids to have the future they were deprived of. A future
without war and fear. Their sacrifice has helped make that
future possible.
Borlletts
Lincoln termed such sacrifice "that last full measure of
sesid
devotion. And we must never forget it. For if the Texans we
se
2.
mill
Served
vetnon
4
9599
honor today could speak, they might say, "Praise us as you will
but above all, we want to be remembered."
Amer.
Today, we remember the Lone Star heroes of America's Longest
War. And through them, heroes throughout our history --
Hist
10513
America's uniformed sons and daughters who took up arms and bore
Sijox
our burden for a cause larger than themselves.
640 Texon- of 3.3million
Militors
St.
Today, we remember the nearly 185,000 3.8 million Americans who
Niport
+
served in Viet Nam -- more than 450,00 000 of them Texans. Men like
Sam Johnson, a prisoner for 7 years in what they called the
(11)596-6009
Hanoi Hilton. Tortured, but never defeated. ste Now a State
legíslator.
many pal iexas
This morning, we also remember America's wounded from the
Viet Nam conflict and the over 17 000 proud Texans who paid
(GOISSI)
a heavy price. They were proud of the United States. They make
us proud today.
Cm Srave Texas.
5,
5,6010
19
Job
And there are our missing or unaccounted for -- we remember
clon
them, too. For while they may be missing in action -- and from
our lives -- MIA's are not missing from our thoughts nor from our
hearts. And so the POW-MIA flag now flies at the Viet Nam
Veterans Memorial in Washington on Memorial Day, Veterans Day,
and POW-MIA Recognition Day. And we will not rest until
died
Kothy Onhever
every veteran is accounted for
821-0702
Finally, we remember the 58 022 Americans who gave their
527-5153
lives in Viet Nam. And the 3,243 brave men the third-largest
number of any State who came from almost 600 Texas cities and
small towns. Men like Ruben Jose Carbajal of El Paso, only 21
4/3/89
Con
THE
Adem
1117-2015
42/-
Call Remano Lomano St. St.Lais
Sell
&
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1119
5
110
when he was killed by a fragmentation device. And Robert Larry
Doks
Oakes from Lamesa only 20, killed by rifle fire. Both died
Lois
315)353 Roy 1st
exactly 20 years ago today. ? Yes, think of these [K men, honor them.
John]
Recall how they served from Dak To to Khe Sanh.
?
Last month, I received a letter I'd like to share with you.
It was from Mrs. Connie McWright of Dallas. And in it she
talked of her family -- four sons, a daughter. And how she lost
two of those boys on the battlefields of Viet Nam.
"Ed and Dale, she wrote, "died with the Marines PR They
were both extremely proud to represent Texas Ed asked that I
send him a Texas flag. She said his buddies called him BIG TEX.
Several moments ago, I met with Mrs. McWright and her
Adv.
daughter, Connie. For in her letter, she told me that each of
her sons had a dream -- Ed, to be a baseball player; Dale, to own
[Connie the disingly
a stable. Her dream, she said, had been "to one day [shake] the
hand of a President of the United States."
Mrs. McWright, it is I who am honored to shake your hand.
For
it is you -- and millions of other mothers, fathers,
daughters, and sons -- who embody the decency, service, and
almost unbelievable courage that makes this Memorial such a
monument to everything that America is and can become.
This is your memorial. Ed and Dale's memorial. The
Dob Amer Bio
memorial which honors the spirit of the Alamo. And San Jacinto.
And earlier heroes named Travis and Houston and Bowie. Fellow
vets, I salute you. God bless you and God bless America. And
now, it is my great privilege to officially open this tribute to
SEX
Bill Joyne -V.D.
233-2817
6
XX
Y
the greatest sons and daughters any Nation could ever have -- the
Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
# # # #
Services of Mead Data Central
PAGE
2
2ND DOCUMENT of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Public Papers of the Presidents
Christmas, 1982
Radio Address to the Nation.
18 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 1665
December 25, 1982
LENGTH: 939 words
Merry Christmas from the White House. Nancy and I wish we could personally
thank the thousands of you who've sent us holiday cards, greetings, and
messages. Each one is moving and tells a story of its own **** a story of love,
hope, prayer, and patriotism. And each one has helped to brighten our
Christmas.
Some of the most moving have come from fellow citizens who, unlike most of
us, are not spending Christmas day at the family hearth, surrounded by friends
and loved ones. I'm thinking of the 12 U.S. marines who sent us a card from
Beirut, Lebanon, where they'll spend their Christmas helping to rebuild the
shattered hopes for peace in a suffering land. And I'm thinking of the petty
officer serving aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise who asked that we remember him and
his shipmates this holiday season. "Christmas in the Indian Ocean is no fun,"
he writes, "but it's for a very good cause."
Well, that's right, sailor. You're serving a very good cause, indeed. On
this, the birthday of the Prince of Peace, you and your comrades serve to
protect the peace He taught us. You may be thousands of miles away, but to us
here at home, you've never been closer.
One of my favorite pieces of Christmas mail came early this year, a sort of
modern American Christmas story that took place not in our country's heartland,
but on the troubled waters of the South China Sea last October. To me, it sums
up 50 much of what is best about the Christmas spirit, the American character,
and what this beloved land of ours stands for ---------- not only to ourselves but to
millions of less fortunate people around the globe.
I want to thank Mr. Gary Kemp of Neenah, Wisconsin, for bringing it to my
attention. It's a letter from Ordnance Man, First Class, John Mooney, written
to his parents from aboard the aircraft carrier Midway on October 15th. But
it's a true Christmas story in the best sense.
"Dear Mom and Dad," he wrote, "today we spotted a boat in the water, and we
rendered assistance. We picked up 65 Vietnamese refugees. It was about a
two-hour job getting everyone aboard, and then they had to get screened by
intelligence and checked out by medical and fed and clothed and all that.
"But now they're resting on the hangar deck, and the kids - most of them
seem to be kids are sitting in front of probably the first television set
they've ever seen, watching 'Star Wars'. Their boat was sinking as we came
alongside. They'd been at sea five days, and had run out of water. All in all,
a couple of more days and the kids would have been in pretty bad shape.
LEXIS® NEXIS® LEXIS® NEXIS
Services of Mead Data Central
PAGE
3
18 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 1665
"I guess once in awhile," he writes, "we need a jolt like that for us to
realize why we do what we do and how important, really, it can be. I mean, it
took a lot of guts for those parents to make a choice like that to go to sea in
a leaky boat in hope of finding someone to take them from the sea. So much
risk! But apparently they felt it was worth it rather than live in a Communist
country.
"For all of our problems, with the price of gas, and not being able to afford
a new car or other creature comforts this year
I really don't see a lot of
leaky boats heading out of San Diego looking for the Russian ships out there
"After the refugees were brought aboard, I took some pictures, but as usual I
didn't have my camera with me for the REAL picture - the one blazed in my
mind
"As they approached the ship, they were all waving and trying as best they
could to say, 'Hello America sailor! Hello Freedom man! It's hard to see a
boat full of people like that and not get a lump somewhere between chin and
bellybutton. And it really makes one proud and glad to be an American. People
were waving and shouting and choking down lumps and trying not to let other
brave men see their wet eyes. A lieutenant next to me said, 'Yeah, I guess it's
payday in more ways than one.' (We got paid today.) And I guess no one could say
it better than that.
"It reminds us all of what America has always been - a place a man or woman
can come to for freedom. I know we're crowded and we have unemployment and we
have a real burden with refugees, but I honestly hope and pray we can always
find room. We have a unique society, made up of cast-offs of all the world's
wars and oppressions, and yet we're strong and free. We have one thing in
common no matter where our forefathers came from, we believe in that freedom.
"I hope we always have room for one more person, maybe an Afghan or a Pole or
someone else looking for a place where he doesn't have to worry about his
family's starving or a knock on the door in the night = and where "all men who
truly seek freedom and honor and respect and dignity for themselves and their
posterity can find a place where they can
finally
see
their
dreams
come
true
and their kids educated and become the next generations of doctors and lawyers
and builders and soldiers and sailors. Love, John."
Well, I think that letter just about says it all. In spite of everything, we
Americans are still uniquely blessed, not only with the rich bounty of our land
but by a bounty of the spirit -- a kind of year-round Christmas spirit that
still makes our country a beacon of hope in a troubled world and that makes this
Christmas and every Christmas even more special for all of us who number among
our gifts the birthright of being an American.
Until next week, thanks for listening. Merry Christmas, and God bless you.
Note: The President's remarks were recorded on December 23 in the Cabinet
Room at the White House for broadcast on December 25.
LEXIS® NEXIS® LEXIS® NEXIS®
To SB
Date
Time
WHILE YOU WERE OUT
M
Donna Sirko
of
Regan Library
Phone
Area Code
Number
Extension
TELEPHONED
PLEASE CALL
CALLED TO SEE YOU
WILL CALL AGAIN
WANTS TO SEE YOU
URGENT
RETURNED YOUR CALL
Message 213-215-2125
Give anyme
the info + they
will do 1t.
Operator
AMPAD
EFFICIENCY®
23-023 CARBONLESS
PAGE
2
2ND DOCUMENT of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Public Papers of the Presidents
Christmas, 1982
Radio Address to the Nation.
18 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 1665
December 25, 1982
LENGTH: 939 words
Merry Christmas from the White House. Nancy and I wish we could personally
thank the thousands of you who've sent us holiday cards, greetings, and
messages. Each one is moving and tells a story of its own -- a story of love,
Christmas. hope, prayer, and patriotism. And each one has helped to brighten our
Some of the most moving have come from fellow citizens who, unlike most of
us, are not spending Christmas day at the family hearth, surrounded by friends
and loved ones. I'm thinking of the 12 U.S. marines who sent us a card from
Beirut, Lebanon, where they'll spend their Christmas helping to rebuild the
shattered hopes for peace in a suffering land. And I'm thinking of the petty
officer serving aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise who asked that we remember him and
his shipmates this holiday season. "Christmas in the Indian Ocean is no fun,"
he writes, "but it's for a very good cause."
Well, that's right, sailor. You're serving a very good cause, indeed. On
this, the birthday of the Prince of Peace, you and your comrades serve to
protect the peace He taught us. You may be thousands of miles away, but to us
here at home, you've never been closer.
One of my favorite pieces of Christmas mail came early this year, a sort of
modern American Christmas story that took place not in our country's heartland,
but on the troubled waters of the South China Sea last October. To me, it sums
up 50 much of what is best about the Christmas spirit, the American character,
and what this beloved land of ours stands for -- not only to ourselves but to
millions of less fortunate people around the globe.
I want to thank Mr. Gary Kemp of Neenah, Wisconsin, for bringing it to my
attention. It's a letter from Ordnance Man, First Class, John Mooney, written
to his parents from aboard the aircraft carrier Midway on October 15th. But
it's a true Christmas story in the best sense.
"Dear Mom and Dad," he wrote, "today we spotted a boat in the water, and we
rendered assistance. We picked up 65 Vietnamese refugees. It was about a
two-hour job getting everyone aboard, and then they had to get screened by
intelligence and checked out by medical and fed and clothed and all that.
"But now they're resting on the hangar deck, and the kids -- most of them
seem to be
kids are sitting in front of probably the first television set
they've ever seen, watching 'Star Wars'. Their boat was sinking as we came
alongside. They'd been at sea five days, and had run out of water. All in all,
a couple of more days and the kids would have been in pretty bad shape.
PAGE
3
18 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 1665
"I guess once in awhile," he writes, "we need a jolt like that for us to
realize why we do what we do and how important, really, it can be. I mean, it
took a lot of guts for those parents to make a choice like that to go to sea in
a leaky boat in hope of finding someone to take them from the sea. So much
risk! But apparently they felt it was worth it rather than live in a Communist
country.
"For all of our problems, with the price of gas, and not being able to afford
a new car or other creature comforts this year
I really don't see a lot of
leaky boats heading out of San Diego looking for the Russian ships out there
"After the refugees were brought aboard, I took some pictures, but as usual I
didn't mind have my camera with me for the REAL picture -- the one blazed in my
"As they approached the ship, they were all waving and trying as best they
could to say, 'Hello America sailor! Hello Freedom man! It's hard to see a
boat full of people like that and not get a lump somewhere between chin and
bellybutton. And it really makes one proud and glad to be an American. People
were waving and shouting and choking down lumps and trying not to let other
brave men see their wet eyes. A lieutenant next to me said, 'Yeah, I guess it's
payday in more ways than one.' (We got paid today.) And I guess no one could say
it better than that.
"It reminds us all of what America has always been -- a place a man or woman
can come to for freedom. I know we're crowded and we have unemployment and we
have a real burden with refugees, but I honestly hope and pray we can always
find room. We have a unique society, made up of cast-offs of all the world's
wars and oppressions, and yet we're strong and free. We have one thing in
common -- no matter where our forefathers came from, we believe in that freedom.
"I hope we always have room for one more person, maybe an Afghan or a Pole or
someone else looking for a place where he doesn't have to worry about his
family's starving or a knock on the door in the night " and where "all men who
truly seek freedom and honor and respect and dignity for themselves and their
posterity can find a place where they can
finally see their dreams come true
and their kids educated and become the next generations of doctors and lawyers
and builders and soldiers and sailors. Love, John."
Well, I think that letter just about says it all. In spite of everything, we
Americans are still uniquely blessed, not only with the rich bounty of our land
but by a bounty of the spirit -- a kind of year-round Christmas spirit that
still makes our country a beacon of hope in a troubled world and that makes this
Christmas and every Christmas even more special for all of us who number among
our gifts the birthright of being an American.
Until next week, thanks for listening. Merry Christmas, and God bless you.
Note: The President's remarks were recorded on December 23 in the Cabinet
Room at the White House for broadcast on December 25.
To S.B.
To SB
Date 11/8
Time 12:40
11/8
Time 12:40
ate
WHILE YOU WERE OUT
WHILE YOU WERE OUT
M
margaret Adams
of
Nat't Archives.
M Jug
Phone
523-6771
Phone of 800-527-7814
Area Code
Number
Extension
Area Code
Number
Extension
TELEPHONED
PLEASE CALL
TELEPHONED
PLEASE CALL
CALLED TO SEE YOU
WILL CALL AGAIN
CALLED TO SEE YOU
WILL CALL AGAIN
WANTS TO SEE YOU
URGENT
WANTS TO SEE YOU
URGENT
RETURNED YOUR CALL
RETURNED YOUR CALL
Message
Message
Bay
Key
Operator
AMPAD
AMPAD
EFFICIENCY®
23-020
EFFICIENCY@
23-020
Date To
To S.B.
Time 4:30
Date 11/7
Time 11:20AM.
WHILE YOU WERE OUT
M Wonna nent
WHILE YOU WERE OUT
M Paul Gray
of
of St. Louis
Phone
746-0786
Phone (314)263-7246
Area Code
Number
Extension
Area Code
Number
Extension
TELEPHONED
PLEASE CALL
X
TELEPHONED
PLEASE CALL
X
CALLED TO SEE YOU
WILL CALL AGAIN
CALLED TO SEE YOU
WILL CALL AGAIN
WANTS TO SEE YOU
URGENT
WANTS TO SEE YOU
URGENT
RETURNED YOUR CALL
RETURNED YOUR CALL
Message
Message
By
1974
Operator
AMPAD
AMPAD
EFFICIENCY@
23-020
EFFICIENCY@
23-020
11/09/89
10:37
263 7005
NCP
001
LIMITED PAYS
ADMINISTRATION
National Personnel Records Center
Military Personnel Records
9700 Page Boulevard St. Louis, Missouri 63132
NATIONAL PERSONNEL RECORDS CENTER
MILITARY PERSONNEL RECORDS
TELECOPIER/FACSIMILE COVER PAGE
Date
11/9/89
Time 9:25 a.m.
Number of pages (including this page)
3 pages -
TO:
FROM:
Stephanie Blessey
Paul Gray
Phone Numbers:
Phone Numbers:
(Fax) 202-456-6218
(Fax) 314-263-7005
(Ofc)
(Ofc)
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
02a. Report
Report of Casualty, re: Robert Larry Oaks [killed in action,
11/09/89
P-6, (b)(6)
Vietnam]; redaction. (1 pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File, Backup
Subseries:
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial 11/11/89 [1]
Date Closed:
10/12/2004
OA/ID Number:
06344
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2004-2265-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
11/05/05
10:00
203 1000
NCP
002
HEADQUARTERS
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
note
OFFICE OF THE ADJUTANT GENERAL
WASHINGTON, D. C., 20315
jlg
REPORT NUMBER AND TYPE
REPORT OF CASUALTY
DATE PREPARED
A-9924
FINAL
RVN 25147
19 Nov 69
1. SERVICE IDENTIFICATION (Name, Service Number, Grado or Rale, Component, Branch and Organization)
OAKS, ROBERT LARRY; *463-88-0598; SSG; RA; CO M, 75TH INF (RANGER), 199TH LIB,
VIETNAM
2, CASUALTY STATUS
X
BATTLE
NON.BATTLE
KILLED "in action in Vietnam on 11 November 1969.
Commenced tour in Vietnam on 11 September 1969
3. DATE AND PLACE OF BIRTH. RACE RELICIOUS PREFERENCE
12 March 1949; Lamesa, Texas
Caucasian; Baptist
4. DATE AND PLACE OF LAST ENTRY IN ACTIVE DUTY IN CURRENT STATUS AND HO 4E OF RECORD AT TIME
1 July 1968; Abilene, Texas
Lemesa, Texas
5. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER. PAY RADE. LENGTH OF SERVICE FOR PAY, BASIC PAY. INGENTIVE PAY
CHECK IF APPLICABLE
463-88-0598
E-6
Under 2 years
$294.90 PARACHUTE
CREW
NON-C REW
6. DUTY STATUS
ACTIVE: ON DUTY
7. INTERESTED PERSONS (Name, Add ess. Relationship)
P-6,(b)(6) P-6, (b)(6)
DA FORM 41 dated 1 July 1968
8, REPORT FOR VA TO
FOLLOW
9. F SPORTING COMMAND AND DATE REPORT RECEIVED IN DEPARTMENT
YES
X
No
C-G USARV LBN RVN
15 November 1969
10. SELECTIVE SERVICE NUMBER. LC CAL BOARD. AND LOCATION (1) unknown, enter late and place of first entry in Armed Services)
41 32 49 63
LB# 32
Lamesa, Texas
11. FRIOR SERVICE DATA
YES
X
NO
12. REMARKS
FOR VA: Certification of Basic Pay UP PL 89-622. NONE
* RA 15 776 270
LONG KHANH (19) III CIZ
FOOTNOTES:
1 Adult next of kin.
2 Beneficiney for gratuity pay In event there is no accerving wife or child-as designated on record of emergency date.
3 Beneficiary for unpaid pay end allo ances-a designated on record of emergency date.
13. DISTRIBUTION
14.
BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY:
B-8
IV
Winne Adjutant General
DD
FORM
1 MAR 60
1300
REPLACES DA FORM 52.1, WHICH is OBSCLETE.
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
02b. Report
Report of Casualty, re: Ruben Jose Carbajal [killed in action,
11/09/89
P-6, (b)(6)
Vietnam]; redaction. (1 pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File, Backup
Subseries:
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial 11/11/89 [1]
Date Closed:
10/12/2004
OA/ID Number:
06344
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2004-2265-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
11/05/00
10:09
203 1005
NCP
4003
90
HEADQUARTERS
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
OFFICE OF THE ADJUTANT GENERAL
WASHINGTON, D. C., 20315
CIIW
REPORT NUMBER AND TYPE
DATE PREPARED
REPORT OF CASUALTY
A 9828
FINAL
RVN 25121
14 Nov 69
1. SERVICE IDENTIFICATION (Name, Service Number Grade or Rate, Component, Branch and Organization)
CARBAJAL, RUBEN JOSE, 458- SGT, RA, CO D, 1ST BN, 11TH INF, 1ST BDE,
5TH INF DIV (MECH), VIETNAM
2. CASUALTY STATUS
X
BATTLE
NON-BATTLE
KILLED in action in Vietnam 11 November 1969.
Commenced tour in Vietnam 4 April 1969
3. DATE AND PLACE OF BIRTH. RACE, RELIGIOUS PREFERENCE
18 March 1948, E1 Paso, Texas
Caucasian, Roman Catholic
4. DATE AND PLACE OF LAST ENTRY ON ACTIVE DUTY IN CURRENT STATUS AND HOME OF RECORD ATTIME
24 January 1968, El Paso, Texas
E1 Paso, Texas
B. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER, PAY GRADE, LENGTH OF SERVICE FOR PAY, BASIC PAY, INCENTIVE PAY
CHECK IF APPLICABLE
458-84-2720
E-5
Under 2 years
$254.70
CREW
NON-CREW
6. DUTY STATUS
ACTIVE: ON DUTY
7. INTERESTED PERSONS (Name, Address, Relationship)
P6,(6)(6)
DA Form 41 dated 24 January 1968
8. REPORT FOR VA TO
9. REPORTING COMMAND AND DATE REPORT RECEIVED IN DEPARTMENT
FOLLOW
YES
X
NO
CG USARV LBN RVN
12 November 1969
10. SELECTIVE SERVICE NUMBER. LOCAL BOARD, AND LOCATION (If unknown, enter date and place of first entry in Armed Services)
41-40-48-461 LB#40 E1 Paso, Texas
41. PRIOR SERVICE DATA
YES
X
NO
12, REMARKS
For VA: Certification of Basic Pay UP PL 89-622. None
* RA 15 834 350
QUANG TRI (01) I CTZ
FOOTNOTES:
I Adult next of kin.
2 Beneficiary for gratuity pay in event there is no surviving wife or child-as designated on record of emergency data.
y Beneficiary for unpaid pay and allowances. --- designated on record of emergency date.
13. DISTRIBUTION
14.
BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY:
B-8
IV
John Adjutant General
DD
FORM
1 MAR so
1300
REPLACES DA FORM 52.1. WHICH IS OBSOLETE,
11/09/89
10:32
263 7005
NCP
001
AND MELTINGS
National Personnel Records Center
Military Personnel Records
9700 Page Boulevard St. Louis, Missouri 63132
NAME
NATIONAL PERSONNEL RECORDS CENTER
MILITARY PERSONNEL RECORDS
TELECOPIER/FACSIMILE COVER PAGE
Date
11/9/89
Time 9:25 a.m.
Number of pages (including this page)
3 pages
TO:
FROM:
Stephanie Blessey
Paul Gray
Phone Numbers:
Phone Numbers:
(Fax) 202-456-6218
(Fax) 314-263-7005
(Ofc)
(Ofc)
COMMENTS/INSTRUCTIONS:
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
03a. Report
Report of Casualty, re: Robert Larry Oaks [killed in action,
11/09/89
P-6, (b)(6)
Vietnam]; redaction. (1 pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File, Backup
Subseries:
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial 11/11/89 [1]
Date Closed:
10/12/2004
OA/ID Number:
06344
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2004-2265-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
NCP
a
002
HFADOHARTERS
DEPARTMENT or THE ARMT
OFFICE OF THE ADJUTANT GENERAL
WASHINGTON. D. C., 20015
jlg
REPORT NUMBER AND TYPE
REPORT or CASHALTY
DATE PREPARED
A-9924
FINAL
RVN 23147
19 NOV dy
I (Min i'm 11 n n 1 , 0 inj Initial
OAKO, BORENT LARRY, 0-00-8598, 000, RA, 00 11, 7520 INP (RANSBR), 193911 LIB,
VIETNAM
2. CASUALTY STATUS
Y
DATTLE
KILLED in action in Vietnam on 11 November 1969.
Commenced Pinn 11 Vietom 001 11 1969
1. DATE AND PLACE OF BIRTH. RACE RELIGIOUS PREFERENCE
1 4 Maron 1999; Lamoon, 10HA0
saption
4. DATE AND PLACE OF LAST ENTRY IN ACTIVE DUTY IN CURRENT STATUS AND HO 1E OF RECORD AT TIME
1 July 1968; Abilene, Texas
Lemesa, Texas
5. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER, PAY RADE, LENGTH OF SERVICE FOR PAY, BASIC PAY, INCENTIVE PAY
CHECK IF APPLICABLE
463-88-0598
E-6
Under 2 years
$294.90 PARACHUTE
CREW
NON-CREW
8. DUTY STATUS
ACTIVE: ON DUTY
7. INTERESTED PERSONS (Name, Add: cas, Relationship)
p-6,(b)(6)
DA FORM 41 dated 1 Jul, 1960
$. was was
1, ELECTING COMMAND AND DATE REPORT RECEIVED IFI DEPARIMENT
FOLLOW
I
1122
11a
J, was Lan will
13 November 1353
1*. ******** If au, 00100. ⑉
AT 37 49 A3
T.R.# 32
Lamesa, Texas
YES
X
NO
12. REMARKS
FOR VA: Certification of Basic Pay UP PL 89-622. NONE
* RA 15 776 270
LONG KHANH (19) TTT CT7
FOOTNOTES:
1 Adult next of kin.
2 Beneficiary for gratuity pay in event there is no surviving wife or child-ns designated on record of emergency data.
3 Beneficiary for unpaid pay and Allo 400003 designated on record of emergency date.
13. DISTRIBUTION
14.
BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY:
B-8
IV
Adjutant General
DD
FORM M.A JI 1 300
REPLACES PA FORM 521, 1, WHICH IS ORGANITE
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
03b. Report
Report of Casualty, re: Ruben Jose Carbajal [killed in action,
11/09/89
P-6, (b)(6)
Vietnam]; redaction. (1 pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File, Backup
Subseries:
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial 11/11/89 [1]
Date Closed:
10/12/2004
OA/ID Number:
06344
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2004-2265-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
VII 003
D
HEADQUARTERS
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
OFFICE OF THE ADJUTANT GENERAL
WASHINGTON, D. C., 20315
rmw
REPORT NUMBER AND TYPE
DATE PREPARED
REPORT OF CASUALTY
A 9828
FINAL
RVN 25121
14 Nov 69
1. SERVICE IDENTIFICATION (Name, Service Number, Grade or Rate, Component, Branch and Organization)
CARBAJAL, RUBEN JOSE, (* SGT, RA, CO D, 1ST BN, 11TH INF, 1ST BDE,
5TH INF DIV (MECH), VIETNAM
2. CASUALTY STATUS
X
BATTLE
NON-BATTLE
KILLED in action in Vietnam 11 November 1969.
Commenced tour in Vietnam 4 April 1969
3. DATE AND PLACE OF BIRTH, RACE. RELIGIOUS PREFERENCE
18 March 1948, E1 Paso, Texas
Caucasian, Roman Catholic
4. DATE AND PLACE OF LAST ENTRY ON ACTIVE DUTY IN CURRENT STATUS AND HOME OF RECORD AT TIME
24 January 1968, El Paso, Texas
E1 Paso, Texas
5. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER, PAY GRADE, LENGTH OF SERVICE FOR PAY. BASIC PAY, INCENTIVE PAY
CHECK IF APPLICABLE
458-84-2720
E-5
Under 2 years
$254.70
CREW
NON-CREW
6. DUTY STATUS
ACTIVE: ON DUTY
7. INTERESTED PERSONS (Name, Address, Relationship)
P-6, (b)(6)
DA Form 41 dated 24 January 1968
8. REPORT FOR VA TO
$. REPORTING COMMAND AND DATE REPORT RECEIVED IN DEPARTMENT
FOLLOW
YES
X
NO
CG USARV LBN RVN
12 November 1969
10. SELECTIVE SERVICE NUMBER, LOCAL BOARD. AND LOCATION (If unknown, enter date and place of first entry in Armed Services)
41-40-48-461 LB40 E1 Paso, Texas
111. PRIOR SERVICE DATA
YES
X
NO
12, REMARKS
For VA: Certification of Basic Pay UP PL 89-622. None
* RA 15 834 350
QUANG TRI (01) I CTZ
FOOTNOTES:
1 Adult next of kin.
2 Beneficiary for gratuity pay in event there 18 no surviving wife or child-as designated ort record of amergency data.
to Beneficiary for unpaid pay and allowances -as designated on record of emergency date.
13. DISTRIBUTION
14.
BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY:
B-8
IV
John Adjutant General
DD
FORM
1 MAR 60
1300
REPLACES DA FORM 52.1. WHICH IS OBSOLETE
- NOV-02-'89 11:41 ID:THOMSON MCKINNON DAL TEL NO:214/761/5112
#103 P01
Prudential-Bache
Securities
11/2/89
DATE:
Stephanie Blessey/Presidential Advance/White House
TO:
B. G. Burkett
FROM:
My Fax # is 214-761-5375
7
pages including this cover page.
Prudential-Bache Securities Inc. 2400 Renaissance Tower Dallas, Texas 75270 (214) 761-5100
NOV-02-'89 11:42 ID: THOMSON MCKINNON DAL
TEL NO: 214/761/5112
#103 P02
By HARRIETTE GRAVES
Bulletin Features Editor
Negative reactions echoed in
Brownwood Wednesday following
the United States Supreme Court's
decision that burning the flag is a
form of expression of free speech
guaranteed by the first amendment.
Headlines from newspapers,
along with television and radio
broadcasts, screamed across the
nation Wednesday when the high
court threw out the flag burning
case. In essence, the Supreme Court
limited the power of the states to out-
law the desecration or destruction of
the American flag.
The justices, by a 5-4 vote. threw
out the conviction of a protester scn-
tenced to a year in jail and a fine
$2,000 for burning a flag in Texas.
The court said a flag burning at a
demonstration in Dallas during the
1984 Republican National Conven-
tion was a form of expression pro-
tected by the Constitution's guaran-
tee of freedom of speech.
Six Brown County veterans who
served in various wars in which the
United States was involved vehe-
mently disagree with the high
court's decision. The wife of one of
the men also expressed her views.
Joe Day, 66, 8 veteran of World
War II who served in Italy, received
the Purple Heart, Combat Infantry
badge, Bronze Star and Veteran
L.W. PHILLIPS, a veteran of World War II, raises with pride the flag
Combat medal, used the word "dir-
at the Brownwood Public Library. Phillips, a Lake Brownwood resi-
ty" referring to the Supreme Court's
decision.
dent, is among many veterans who are unhappy with the recent
"They should be punished for
U.S. Supreme Court decision that protects the burning of a flag as a
making that decision," he said. "The
form of political protest.
flag means freedom for the United
(Bulletin Photo by Sami Harman)
States of America and should never
be burned."
L.W. Phillips, 74, of Lake Brown-
wood, served during World War II in
North Africa and Italy for 34
months. "I don't like it," he empha-
sized. "The way I understand it, the
flag is a national symbol and I sure
don't like the way the Surpreme
Court did it. If they have to burn an
old or torn flag it should not be done
in public," Phillips said.
Stan Shaw, 40. a Vietnam veteran
and a brownwood fire fighter, dis-
agrees strongly with the Supreme
Court decision. "I don't go along
with it at all." Shaw said. "For years
the way I was raised, my military
training, my fire department train-
ing. I was taught to believe that the
flag never should touch the ground,
much less the crime the man com-
(915) 646-6743 main Station
mitted when he burned the flag,"
Shaw said. "The decision was very
wrong and 1 believe every veteran of
every war will agree with me. That's
what we founght for - old glory."
NOV-02-'89 11:42 ID:THOMSON MCKINNON DAL TEL NO:214/761/5112
#103 P03
(214) 596-0229
Vietnam Veterans Memorial of Texas
Board of Directors
Representative Sam Johnson,
Colonel USAF (Ret)
"Austin and Hanoi"
State representative District 60 since 1984
POW for 7 years. Viet Nam
Command Pilot. 29 years in the USAF
Former Air Division Commander 31st TAC
Fighter Wing
Former Wing Commander 31st TAC Fighter
Wing
Former Vice Commander 4th TAC Fighter
Wing
Former Director Fighter Weapons School
Familiar
Quotations
A collection of passages, phrases and
proverbs traced to their sources in
ancient and modern literature
FIFTEENTH AND 125TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
REVISED AND ENLARGED
John Bartlett
Edited by EMILY MORISON BECK
and the editorial staff of Little, Brown and Company
LB
LITTLE, BROWN AND COMPANY
BOSTON
TORONTO
LONDON
VIETNAM
VETERANS
MEMORIAL
The Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial
FUND OF TEXAS
The Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial will be a living Memorial designed to
remember those Texas Veterans who were Killed or are Missing in Action, as well
as to honor those who returned to live and work in our communities.
The statewide Memorial will be located on the Texas State Fair Grounds in
Dallas. The State Fair Ground site was selected because it is the most visited
tourist attraction in the State and will provide the optimum opportunity for
Texans to visit this historical Memorial.
The Memorial will encompass an area of approximately 12,000 square feet and
will be surrounded by 80,000 square feet (approximately 2 acres) of landscaped
area. The Memorial will permanently enshrine four granite tablets bearing the
names of the 3,244 Texans who were Killed in Action. These tablets, constructed
of natural Texas granite, will be surrounded by two reflection pools. An eter-
nal flame will stand vigil over a single tablet containing the names of the 162
Texans who remain Missing in Action. Additionally, the Memorial will incor-
porate two covered arenas designed to accommodate small groups and provide
seating. The Memorial was deliberately designed with the large surrounding
landscpaed area to serve as a natural place to hold large services on Veterans
Day, Memoria! Day and other appropriate times. It will serve all citizens of
Texas by providing a place to visit, learn and reflect upon this turbulent
period of our history.
The Memorial was designed by Gary Garmon and Richard Martratt of Martratt/
Garmon Architects (a Dallas based architectural firm). Mr. Martratt is a
Vietnam Veteran who served from 1966-67.
Your tax-deductible contribution may be sent to: VVMFT, P.O. Box 50366,
Dallas, Texas 75250 or by calling 741-9992 or 1-800-626-8877.
P.O. Box 50366 Dallas, TX 75250 (214)741-9992 1-800-626-8877
Lincoln
Lincoln
523
ns held as slaves within
way which if followed the world will
5
The President last night had a dream. He
1 ted part of a state, the
then be in rebellion
forever applaud and God must forever bless. Ib.
was in a party of plain people and as it be-
came known who he was they began to com-
orever free.
States shall be then,
Beware of rashness, but with energy and
ment on his appearance. One of them said,
y Emancipation Proc.
sleepless vigilance go forward and give us vic-
"He is a common-looking man." The Presi-
dent replied, "Common-looking people are
1 [September 22, 1862 /2
tories.
Letter to Major General Joseph
the best in the world: that is the reason the
ke the boy in Kentucky
Hooker [January 26, 1863]
Lord makes so many of them."
hile running to see his
From Letters of John Hay and Ex-
said he was too big to
The Father of Waters again goes unvexed
tracts from His Diary, edited by
hurt to laugh.
to the sea.
C. L. HAY [December 23, 1863]
how he felt about the
Letter to James C. Conkling
elections. 3 From Frank
[August 26, 1863]
6 I claim not to have controlled events, but
confess plainly that events have controlled
strated ] Weekly [Novem.
I have endured a great deal of ridicule
me.
without much malice; and have received a
Letter to A. G. Hodges [April 4,
d to consist of its terri.
great deal of kindness, not quite free from
1864]
S laws. The territory is
ridicule. I am used to it.
5 of certain durability.
Letter to James H. Hackett
7
The world has never had a good definition
nnual Message to Con.
[November 2, 1863]
of the word liberty. And the American people
ess [December I, 1862]
Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers
just now are much in want of one. We all
be a proper time for
brought forth on this continent, a new na-
declare for liberty; but in using the same
tion, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to
word we do not mean the same thing. With
S, that time surely is
the proposition that all men are created
some, the word liberty may mean for each
ke the present, men
equal.
man to do as he pleases with himself and the
for which they would
onsible through time
Now we are engaged in a great civil war,
product of his labor; while with others the
testing whether that nation or any nation SO
same word may mean for some men to do as
lb.
conceived and so dedicated can long endure.
they please with other men and the product
quiet past are inade-
We are met on a great battlefield of that war.
of other men's labor. Here are two, not only
esent. The occasion is
We have come to dedicate a portion of that
different, but incompatible things, called by
Ity, and we must rise
field, as a final resting place for those who
the same name, liberty. And it follows that
our case is new, so we
here gave their lives that that nation might
each of the things is by the respective parties
act anew. We must
live. It is altogether fitting and proper that
called by two different and incompatible
nd then we shall save
we should do this.
names, liberty and tyranny.
But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate
The shepherd drives the wolf from the
annot escape history.
-we cannot consecrate-we cannot hallow
sheep's throat, for which the sheep thanks
d this administration
- this ground. The brave men, living and
the shepherd as his liberator, while the
spite of ourselves. No
dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it
wolf denounces him for the same act.
or insignificance can
far above our poor power to add or detract.
Plainly the sheep and the wolf are not agreed
of us. The fiery trial
The world will little note nor long remember
upon a definition of liberty.
will light us down in
what we say here, but it can never forget
Address at the Sanitary Fair,
e last generation. We
what they did here. It is for us, the living,
Baltimore [April 18, 1864]
n. The world will not
rather to be dedicated here to the unfinished
We know how to save
I do not allow myself to suppose that either
work which they who fought here have thus
10WS we do know how
the convention or the League have concluded
far SO nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be
here, hold the power
to decide that I am either the greatest or best
here dedicated to the great task remaining
ility. In giving free-
before that from these honored dead we
man in America, but rather they have con-
ssure freedom to the
cluded that it is not best to swap horses while
take increased devotion to that cause for
in what we give and
crossing the river, and have further con-
which they gave the last full measure of devo-
shall nobly save or
tion; that we here highly resolve that these
cluded that I am not SO poor a horse that they
best hope of earth.
dead shall not have died in vain; that this
might not make a botch of it in trying to
ed; this could not fail.
swap.
nation, under God, shall have a new birth of
ceful, generous, just
freedom; and that government of the people,
Reply to the National Union
by the people, for the people, shall not perish
League [June 9, 1864]
ation was issued one hun-
63].
from the earth.
Truth is generally the best vindication
or Horatio Seymour, Dem-
Address at Gettysburg
against slander.
of New York. Moreover,
ocrats picked up a number
[November 19, 1863]
Letter to Secretary Stanton, refus-
n a number of state elec-
'See Wycliffe, 143:12; Webster, 45°:14; Disraeli, 501:6;
ing to dismiss Postmaster-General
Garrison, 505:19; and Parker, 537:15.
Montgomery Blair [July 18, 1864]
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 29, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CURT SMITH
FROM:
STEPHANIE BLESSEY
SUBJECT:
TEXAS VIETNAM VETERANS
The following are a few ideas, examples and materials
gathered for the Texas Vietnam Memorial:
Ideas from Pinkerton:
- Memorials are the navigation points of the future.
- They are teaching devices. When a child visits a
memorial and asks his father, "What is this for?" it begins
the learning process.
- Memorials are like museums.
Like the dinosaurs in the Natural History Museum or the
airplanes in the Air and Space Museum, they are "bigger
than life" size pieces of history or learning
materials.
Examples:
- Died on November 11, 1969, 20 years before the dedication:
o Ruben Jose Carbajal from El Paso, a 21 year old
sergeant E-5, was killed by a fragmentation device.
O Robert Larry Oakes, a 20 year old Sergeant from
Lamesa, was killed by rifle fire.
Living Examples:
- Ronald Cowart - Navy; dallas policeman who opened a
storefront police station in a poor Asian neighborhood. Since
the Cambodians were afraid of police he opened a "Officer
Friendly" station, where people could come for a cup of coffee,
and cops walk a neighborhood beat. Crime has dropped in this
area, and more Asians are becoming police. In fact, this idea
has been copied in other neighborhoods in Texas.
- Fred Flam - Hanoi Hilton POW (more info coming)
- Sam Johnson - Hanoi Hilton POW for 7 years, tortured, arms
are crippled. He is now a State Legislator (more info coming).
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Quote Idea:
On the slate for the MIAs reads:
In the harsh reality of war
The wounds that run deepest
Are the wounds of uncertainty
These are the wounds that cannot heal
For these Texans,
We pray that their fates will become known
And that for their families friends and fellow veterans
There can finally be an end.
Though their destinies remain unknown
Their heroic service to their country will not be
forgotten.
The following is a list of information attached that I
gathered while in Texas:
- Picture of the design
- Synopsis of memorial
- Proposed schedule
- Letter from the President
- Examples of Texas leaders who support the memorial
- Texas casualty statistics. Note: a high number of
Hispanics
- Recent articles about Vietnam
- Articles about the memorial
- Major supporters
For Stephanie Blessey
11/2/89
from John Wheeler 527-5153
Ideas for Openning the Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial
The Vietnam Veterans Memorials across the country link us
all together symbollically. They form a great network of healing --
the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the Mall in Washington, D.C.,
and the superb memorials in states and cities across the land.
The names of the men and women who answered the call of our
country are listed on a beautiful memorial in Sacramento, and
one in Columbia, South Carolina, and one in New York City and
in Chicago -- and 143 other major Vietnam Veterans Memorials
across the land. And today we open the Texas Vietnam Veterans
Memorial. This memorial is pure Texan -- great and beautiful,
distinctive among our country's Vietnam memorials, while listing
the names, as so many of the memorials do.
This Memorial says we honor the vets, especially those fallen.
It says we open our hearts to the widows and parents and children
of those named on the walls.
And it says important things about the vets who live among us.
Those vets built this memorial. They raised the money for it
and then they built it and gave it to our great state. As they
did years ago in battle, they seek nothing in return. I commend Jug
Burkett and (the other cochair) and all the Texas vets for their effort.
It was this way in Washington, D.C. when vets gathered to build
the national Vietnam Veterans Memorial. And note this: by their
leadership, our vets have inspired so many others to create
new beautiful memorials, like the Law Enforcement Officers Memorial
for which I broke ground just two weeks ago, and the new memorial
in Montgomery, Alabama to slain civil rights workers -- it too is
a Wall, and designed by the young woman whose talent was discovered
by America's Vietnam vets.
These memorials say that the men and women who served in Vietnam
keep on giving much to our country in all walks of life. How
proud of them we should be!
They are like their parents, their dads, who fought in World War II,
or dads or brothers who fought in the hills of Korea. In fact,
the new Korean War Veterans Memorial is beign built near the
Vietnam Memorial in Washington, inspired and helped by the younger
men from Vietnam. I was proud to unveil the design for the Korean
Memorial this last summer.
The great memorials of our country are not only these memorials,
like this beautiful new one in Texas, but include such national
symbols as Mount Rushmore -- which citizen volunteers are helping
to renovate -- the great WW II cemetery in Hawaii, in the Punch
Bowl.
Stephanie
-2-
(cont.) And the Washington Monument, the Saint Louis Arch --
a memorial to the openning of the West -- and the Lincoln and
Jefferson Memorials.
Countries navigate by such great symbols. They show our deepest
values. Yes, they are like stars.
We navigate by the values of giving to others and of relying on
others and of service to country that are embodied in this
Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
These memorials teach us. They remind us. They point to the
things that matter the most, to keeping commitments and putting
others ahead of oneself.
And of course the Vietnam memorials are about healing. They
are signs of healing -- in my mind's eye I see the network
of great Vietnam memorials across the country as a great pattern
of healing, binding us all together as they help bind some of
the wounds of war. So many people touch these memorials. Touch
is a sign of healing. They leave beloved items at these memrials,
a sign of remembrance and of entrusting memory to the whole
community to share.
In this way these memorials show forth love. And what a credit
it is to Texas that her vets, proud of their service to country,
lead us in showing forth such love. It reminds me again of the
honor to have been chosen to serve as President, to represent
a country that produces such women and men.
This memorial has a special panel for the Missing in Action and
I reaffirm this day that our country shall not rest until a full
accounting of each MIA and POW is in hand!
I would like to speak for a bit to the kids. So many are here
in this crowd. Too often the speeches of us grown-ups go over
their heads. But perhaps more importantly than anything is that
these memorials teach. They are examples. When a child sees an
uncle or aunt or dad or brother on this memorial, the child will
remember.
To the children, I say, this is your memorial. We want you to know
that we remember many wonderful people who were killed. Here are
their names. They were very brave. They loved our country. They
helped each other. We are sad and we miss them. They would want you
to grow up to be healthy and never to face a war. And that is
what all we grwon ups here today wish for you, and it is what we
work so hard to make come true for you.
It is my great honor that you have asked me open this Memorial--
-3-
a great memorial in the Lone Star State, the Texas Vietnam
Veterans Memorial.
Before parting, Barbara and I would like you to know that
we have written a note which we will leave at these walls.
It says:
Dearest Veterans:
Today we remember all that you have given to Texas
and to America. We embrace your memory and those who
loved you in life.
You gave your lives in the Vietnam War, one of the
most torn periods in our country's young life. These walls
that name each of you are signs of great healing that enfolds
all our country. Here with families and many children, we
affirm our commitment to create and maintain the world you
would wish for all of us.
We love you and are faithful to all the good you
represent. God Bless You, and bring healing to all who
ache in your absence.
Sincerely,
/s/
Bush
Thank you again for the honor of your invitation. To the
vets here, I salute you. The Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial
is now open!
(President takes note to Walls. Or 1st Lady does alone or
with President. Or Secret Service or some vets do. )
John Wheeler
703-527-5153
FACSIMILE TRANSMITTAL HEADER SHEET
FROM:
OFFICE
TELECOPIER
AUTHORIZED RELEASER'S
SYMBOL
NUMBER
SIGNATURE
US ARMY CENTER OF MILITARY HISTORY
20 MASS. 2 AVE. ,NW
(A) 285-1494
WASHINGTON, DC 20314-0200
DAMH- RAS
(C) 202-272-
Dorght D. Cland
1494
TO Stephanie Blessy
TIME
Office of Research
White House
DAY: 8
MONTH: 11
YEAR: 89
TELECOPIER NO: 456-6218
NOV 08 '89 16:18 USA CENTER OF MILITARY HISTORY
CLASSIFICATION
NO. PAGES
PRECEDENCE
REMARKS:
nonclassified
6
asap
NOTE: 1 HEADER PLUS 5
SUBJECT
statistics- SEA/UN
P.1
P.2
NOV 08 '89 16:18 USA CENTER OF MILITARY HISTORY
P28.01s
U. S. MILITARY PERSONNEL IN SOUTH VIETNAM 1960-1973
Marine
Air
Coast
Army
Navy
Corps
Force
Guard
Total
31 Dec 1960
800
15
2
68
-
About 900
31 Dec 1961
2,100
200
5
1,000
-
3,200
30 Jun 1962
5,900
300
700
2,100
-
9,000
31 Dec
7,900
500
500
2,400
.
11,300
30 Jun 1963
10,200
600
600
4,000
-
15,400
31 Dec
10,100
800
800
4,600
-
16,300
30 Jun 1964
9,900
1,000
600
5,000
-
16,500
31 Dec
14,700
1,100
900
6,600
-
23,300
30 Jun 1965
27,300
3,800
28,100
10,700
-
59,900
31 Dec
116,800
8,400
38,200
20,600
300
184,300
30 Jun 1966
160,000
17,000
53,700
36,400
400
267,500
31 Dec
239,400
23,300
69,200
52,900
500
385,300
30 Jun 1967
285,700
28,500
73,400
55,700
500
448,800
31 Dec
319,500
31,700
78,000
55,900
500
485,600
30 Jun 1968
354,300
35,600
83,600
60,700
500
534,700
31 Dec
359,800
36,100
81,400
58,400
400
536,100
30 Apr 1969
363,300
36,500
81,800
61,400
LOO
543,400*
30 Jun
360,500
35,800
81,500.
60,500
400
538,700
31 Dec
331,100
30,200
55,100
58,1.00
400
475,200
30 Jun 1970
298,600
25,700
39,900
50,500
200
414,900
31 Dec
249,600
16,700
25,100
43,100
100
334,600
30 Jun 1971
190,500
10,700
500
37,400
100
239,200
31 Dec
119,700
7,600
600
28,800
100
156,800
30 Jun 1972
31,800
2,200
1,400
11,500
100
47,000
31 Dec
13,800
1,500
1,200
7,600
100
24,200
30 Jun 1973
**
**
**
**
**
**
31 Dec
**
**
**
**
**
**
*
Peak strength.
Totals for all 4 Services combined less than 250.
CUMULATIVE NUMBER OF MILITARY PERSONNEL SERVED IN SOUTHEAST ASIA
January 1, 1965 through March 31, 1973
(Excludes Ccast Guard)
Cumulative Number Served in South Vietnam
2,594,200
Cumulative Number Served in Southeast Asia
3,403,100
Department of Defense
OASD (Comptroller)
63
Directorate for Information Operations
March 19, 1974
IVIUI
Department of Defense
SELECTED MANPOWER DIOR/MPI-85
STATISTICS
Fiscal Year 1985
DTIC
AD-A165 773
ELECTE
MAR 2 7 1986
A
NOV 08 '89 16:19 USA CENTER OF MILITARY HISTORY
DTIC FILE COPY
This document has been approved
for public release and sale, its
distribution is unlimited.
who
DIRECTORATE ORINFORMATION
OPERATIONS ND REPORT 7DIQR1
TABLE 2-30
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
PRINCIPAL WARS IN WHICH THE UNITED STATES PARTICIPATED
U.S. MILITARY PERSONNEL SERVING AND CASUALTIES (P28.2) A/
CASUALTIES
B/
BRANCH UF
NUMBER
BATTLE
OTHER
WOUNDS NOT
WAR/CONFLICT
SERVICE
SERVING
DEATHS
DEATHS
MORTAL
WORLD WAR I
TOTAL
4,734,991
53,402
63,114
20%,002
6 APR 1917 -
ARMY G/
4,057,101
50,510
55,868
193,663
11 NOV 1918
NAVY
599,051
431
6,856
819
MARINES
78,839
2,461
390
9,520
WORLD WAR II
TOTAL
16,112,566
291,557
113,842
670,846
7 DEC 1941 -
ARMY H/
11,260,000
234,874
83,400
565,861
31 DEC 1946 I/
NAVY J/
4,183,466
36,950
25,664
37,778
MARINES
609,100
19,733
4,778
67,207
NOV 08 '89 16:20 USA CENTER OF MILITARY,HISTORY. MILITARY HISTORY.
KOREAN CONFLICT
TOTAL
5,720,000
33,643
20,617
101
25 JUN 1950 -
ARMY
2,834,000
27,709
9,429
77,596
27 JUL 1953 K/
HAVY
1,177,000
466
4,043
1,576
MARINES
424,000
4,268
1,261
23,744
AIR FORCE
1,285,000
1,200
5,884
368
VIETNAM CONFLICT
TOTAL
8,744,000
47,312
10,703
153,303
4 AUG 1964 -
ARMY
4,368,000
30,899
7,269
95,802
27 JAN 1973
NAVY
1,842,000
1,605
919
4,178
MARINES
794,000
13,070
1,749
51,392
AIR FORCE
1,740,000
1,738
766
931
117
TABLE 2-30
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND AND NOTES (P28.2)
A. Data prior to World War I are based on incomplete records in many cases. Casualty data are confined
to dead and wounded and, therefore, exclude personnel captured or missing in action who were
subsequently returned to military control.
B. Marine Corps data for World War II, the Spanish-Armerican War and prior wars represent the number of
wounds. individuals wounded, whereas all other data in this column represent the total number (incidence) of
C. Not known, but estimates range from 184,000 to 250,000.
NOV 08 '89 16:20 USA CENTER OF MILITARY HISTORY
D. As reported by the Commissioner of Pensions in his annual report for fiscal year 1903.
E. Authoritative statistics for the Confederate forces are not available. Estimates of the number who
served range from 600,000 to 1,500,000. The final report of the Provist Marshal General, 1863-1866,
indicated 133,821 Confederate deaths (74,524 battle and 59,297 other) based upon incomplete returns. In
addition, an estimated 26,000 to 31,000 Confederate personnel died in Union prisons.
F. Number serving covers the period April 21 to August 13, 1898, while dead and wounded data are for the
period May 1 to August 31, 1898. Active hostilities ceased on August 13, 1898, but ratifications of
the Treaty of Peace were not exchanged between the United States and Spain until April 11, 1899.
G. Includes air service. Battle deaths and woulds not mortal include casualties suffered by American
forces in northern Russia to August 25, 1919, and in Siberia to April 1, 1920. Other deaths cover the
period April 1, 1917, to December 31, 1918.
H. Includes Army air forces.
118
I. Data are for the period December 1, 1941, through December 31, 1946, when hostilities were officially
terminated by Presidential Proclamation, but few battle deaths or wounds not mortal were incurred
after the Japanese acceptance of the Allied peace terms on August 14, 1945. Humber serving from
December 1, 1941, through August 31, 1945, were: Total N 14,903,213; Army - 10,420,000; Navy -
3,883,520; and Marine Corps - 599,693.
J. Battle deaths and wounds not mortal include casualties incurred in October 1941 due to hostile action.
K. Tentative final data based upon information available as of September 30, 1954, at which time 24
persons were still carried as missing in action.
L. Number serving covers the period August 4, 1964, through January 27, 1973, (date of cease-fire). Wounds
not mortal exclude 150,332 persons not requiring hospital care. Known status of casualties is
]]
September 30, 1985.
NOV 08 '89 16:21 USA 16:21 USA CENTER OF MILITARY
HISTORY
119
VISIT OF THE PRESIDENT AND MRS. BUSH
TO
DALLAS, TEXAS
NOVEMBER 10 - 11, 1989
EVENT:
Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial Dedication
DATE:
Saturday, November 11, 1989
TIME:
10:20 am - 11:15 am
LOCATION:
Veterans Memorial Park, Fair Park
HOST:
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Of Texas
ATTENDEES:
15,000
PRESS:
Open
SCENARIO:
THE PRESIDENT and Mrs. Bush arrive Texas Vietnam
Veterans Memorial and proceed to Holding Room.
THE PRESIDENT and Mrs. Bush arrive Holding Room
and hold briefly. THE PRESIDENT and Mrs. Bush
depart Holding Room and proceed to Off-Stage Announcement
Area/Greeting Area. THE PRESIDENT and Mrs. Bush arrive Off-Stage
Announcement Area and are met by: The Honorable Annette Strauss,
Mayor of Dallas; Mr. Ed J. Niedermaier, Veterans of Foreign Wars
Representative; and the following members of the Vietnam Veterans
Memorial Ceremony Committee: Major General A. R. Bolling, Jr.
(Ret. Mr. Alexander R. Bolling III; Mr. Robert L. Bedell, Mr.
John P. Abbott; Mr. Glen Adams; Mr. Robert Murrill; Mr. Neal
Pointer, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund of Texas; Mr. Tom Hartin,
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund of Texas; Mrs. Connie McWright,
mother of Vietnam Veterans; Mr. Wayne McWright, son of Mrs.
McWright; Mrs. Connie Bosher, daughter of Mrs. McWright; and Miss
Crystal Lynn Bosher, daughter of Mrs. Bosher. Following
greeting, THE PRESIDENT and Mrs. Bush are announced onto Stage to
Honors and proceed to Seats on Dais. (NOTE: As "Ruffles and
Flourishes" is played, a twenty-one gun salute takes place,
followed by "Hail To The Chief.") Military personnel then
Present Arms followed by Presentation of Colors and playing of
the National Anthem. Mr. Brad Wright, master of ceremonies,
introduces Mr. Art Ruff, co-chairman, Vietnam Veterans Fund. Mr.
Ruff delivers remarks. Mr. B. G. Burkett, co-chairman, Vietnam
Veterans Memorial Fund, then gives remarks. THE PRESIDENT is
introduced for Remarks by The Honorable William (Bill) Clements,
Governor of Texas. THE PRESIDENT delivers Remarks. Upon
conclusion of Remarks, THE PRESIDENT returns to his Seat.
Chaplain Adickes delivers the Memorial dedication, followed by
Marine Rifle Salute and Echo Taps. A joint Military Fly-Over
will commence followed by a Presentation of Arms. THE PRESIDENT
and Mrs. Bush depart the Dais and proceed to Holding Room. THE
PRESIDENT and Mrs. Bush arrive Holding Room for a brief hold.
THE PRESIDENT and Mrs. Bush depart Holding Room and proceed to
Motorcade. THE PRESIDENT and Mrs. Bush board Motorcade and
depart Vietnam Memorial en route Dallas Love Field.
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial permanently enshrines four granite
tablets bearing the names of the 3,244 Texans who were killed in
action. The Memorial serves as the backdrop for the dedication
ceremony. The Memorial encompasses 12,000 square feet surrounded
by 80,000 square feet of gardens and two reflecting pools. An
eternal flame stands vigil over a single tablet containing the
names of the 162 Texans who remain missing in action.
Approximately 5,000 veterans and families will be seated in front
of the stage; the remainder of the audience will be standing.
The press will have a 65' throw at a 45 degree angle.
NOV-02-'89 11:51 ID:THOMSON MCKINNON DAL TEL NO: 214/761/5112
#104 P01
Prudential- Bache
Securities
11/2/89
DATE:
stephanie Blessey/Presidential Advance/White House
TO:
B. G. Burkett
FROM:
My Fax # is
214-761-5375
7
pages including this cover page.
Prudential-Bache Securities Inc. " 2400 Renaissance Tower @ Dallas, Texas 75270 * (214) 761-5100
NOV-02-'89
11:52
ID: THOMSON MCKINNON DAL
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#104 P02
By HARRIETTE GRAVES
Bulletin Features Editor
Negative reactions echoed in
Brownwood Wednesday following
the United States Supreme Court's
decision that burning the flag is a
form of expression of free speech
00
guaranteed by the first amendment.
Headlines from newspapers,
BRO
along with television and radio
broadcasts, screamed across the
nation Wednesday when the high
court threw out the flag burning
case. In essence, the Supreme Court
limited the power of the states to out-
law the desecration or destruction of
the American flag.
The justices, by a 5-4 vote, threw
out the conviction of a protester sen-
tenced to a year in jail and a fine
$2,000 for burning a flag in Texas.
The court said a flag burning at a
demonstration in Dallas during the
1984 Republican National Conven-
tion was a form of expression pro-
tected by the Constitution's guaran-
tee of freedom of speech.
Six Brown County veterans who
served in various wars in which the
United States was involved vehc-
mently disagree with the high
court's decision. The wife of one of
the men also expressed her views.
Joe Day. 66, a veteran of World
War II who served in Italy, received
the Purple Heart, Combet Infantry
bedge, Bronze Star and Veteran
L.W. PHILLIPS, a veteran of World War II, raises with pride the flag
Combat medal, used the word "dir-
at the Brownwood Public Library. Phillips, a Lake Brownwood resi-
ty" referring to the Supreme Court's
decision.
dent, is among many veterans who are unhappy with the recent
U.S. Supreme Court decision that protects the burning of a flag as a
"They should be punished for
making that decision," he said. "The
form of political protest.
flag means freedom for the United
13:05
(Bulletin Photo by Sami Harman)
States of America and should never
be burned."
L.W. Phillips, 74, of Lake Brown-
wood, served during World War II in
North Africa and Italy for 34
months. "I don't like it," he empha-
sized. "The way I understand it, the
flag is a national symbol and I sure
don't like the way the Surpreme
Court did it. If they have to burn an
old or torn flag it should not be done
in public," Phillips said.
Stan Shaw, 40, a Vietnam veteran
and a Brownwood fire fighter, dis-
agrees strongly with the Supreme
Court decision. "I don't go along
with it at all," Shaw said. "For years
the way I was raised, my military
training, my fire department train-
ing, I was taught to believe that the
flag never should touch the ground,
much less the crime the man com-
(915) 646-6743 Main Station
mitted when he burned the flag,"
Shaw said. "The decision was very
wrong and I believe every veteran of
every war will agree with me. That's
what we founght for - old glory."
NOV-02-'89 11:52 ID:THOMSON MCKINNON DAL TEL NO: 214/761/5112
#104 P03
(214) 596-0229
Vietnam Veterans Memorial of Texas
Board of Directors
Representative Sam Johnson,
Colonel USAF (Ret)
"Austin and Hanoi"
State representative District 60 since 1984
POW for 7 years, Viet Nam
Command Pilot. 29 years in the USAF
Former Air Division Commander 31st TAC
Fighter Wing
Former Wing Commander 31st TAC Fighter
Wing
Former Vice Commander 4th TAC Fighter
Wing
Former Director Fighter Weapons School
62 combat missions Korea, 25 Viet Nam
Former Thunderbird Slot Pilot
Highly decorated. including 2 Legions of
Merit and Distinguished Flying Cross
NOV-02-'89
11:53
ID:
THOMSON
MCKINNON
DAL
TEL NO: 214/761/5112
#104 P04
Valor
Valor en Masse
No group of American
American to inhabit that infamous
tool to fan the flames of antiwar sen-
military men has suf-
place was Lt. j.g. Everett Alvarez,
timent in this country. To some ex-
shot down on August 5, 1964. It was
tent that scheme backfired when the
fered longer or more
seven months before downed air-
barbarism engulfing the prisons be-
heroically than the
men from the bombing attacks on
came known in 1969. Only then did
Vietnam POWs.
targets in North Vietnam began to
POW life begin to improve, slowly
fill the dank cells of Hoa Lo. Al-
and with many reversions.
varez no longer was alone.
Most of the Americans captured
While living conditions in the
before late 1969 were abused to
BY JOHN L. FRISBEE
prisons were only marginally better
varying degrees. The toughest and
than in the camps, up to late 1969.
bravest suffered the most, among
there were important differences.
them Air Force pilots Larry Gua-
S
IXTEEN years ago this month,
As the prison population grew, the
rino, Don Storz (who apparently
Hanoi opened the gates of its
POWs set up a military organiza-
died in torture), John Flynn, Robbie
dungeons and the first American
tion, devised means of communica-
Risner, George "Bud" Day. and Jim
prisoners of war began a euphoric
tion, and disseminated regulations
Kasler, and the Navy's James
flight to the freedom some had been
and policies based on the Military
Stockdale, Jeremiah Denton, John
denied for almost nine years. This
Code of Conduct. Organization pro-
McCain, and Rodney Knutson.
country's longest and most contro-
vided a sustaining web of unity and
Every man who had met the tor-
versial war had come to an end at
purpose.
turers knew there was a point be-
last.
Unlike their counterparts in
yond which he could no longer re-
During the latter years of that war,
camps, prison authorities in late
sist. All but a few held out far be-
the only issue of the Vietnam expe-
1965 sanctioned systematic phys-
yond what seems the limit of human
rience that united supporters and
ical torture, often administered by
endurance, then by phrase or into-
opponents of the war was mistreat-
professionals in that grisly business.
nation made a statement that the
ment of the POWs, first brought to
Many POWs who didn't show "the
outside world would know had been
public attention by an article in the
right attitude" were beaten with
extorted under extreme duress.
October 1969 issue of AIR FORCE
rubber belts until, as one prisoner
The Vietnam Memorial speaks
Magazine. Louis R. Stockstill's
put it, their buttocks looked "like
eloquently of those who gave their
"The Forgotten Americans of the
raw hamburger." The rope treat-
lives in Southeast Asia. There is no
Vietnam War," reprinted by Read-
ment, suffered many times by the
memorial to the men who suffered
er's Digest, became the catalyst that
most determined resisters, inflicted
and survived Hanoi's prisons.
focused worldwide censure on the
excruciating pain, often dislocating
North Vietnam's calculated pro-
government of North Vietnam. That
the victim's shoulders and breaking
gram of mental and physical bru-
censure was a very long time in
ribs. Injuries that had been sus-
tality was without parallel in the an-
coming.
tained in a bailout gave no immunity
nals of "civilized" nations at war.
The first American POW in Viet-
from torture.
The heroism of the great majority of
nam is believed to have been Green
Solitary confinement. sometimes
POWs went beyond anything we
Beret Capt. Floyd Thompson, cap-
for months, in tiny, unventilated
who were not there can conceive.
tured on March 26, 1964. He, like an
cells infested with rats was a com-
Their stubborn resistance to the de-
unknown number that followed,
mon punishment. Some "offenders"
mands of their captors brought
spent most of his years as a prisoner
were chained to a slab for days at a
honor to themselves and to their
in a series of remote jungle camps
time, not released even to attend to
profession. These extraordinary
under appalling conditions. The
natural functions. Starvation and
men wrote a chapter in the history
prisoners were kept in bamboo
dehydration of those undergoing
of this nation that must not be al-
cages, provided neither clothing nor
torture or solitary confinement
lowed to fade from memory. They
blankets, denied medical treatment,
were routine.
should be publicly commemorated
frequently abused by their captors,
Torture was not used primarily to
as a symbol of patriotism and of the
and grossly undernourished. How
obtain military information, but to
unconquerable spirit that inspires
many died in the hell of the jungle
break a prisoner's will, force him to
the best in free men.
camps may never be revealed.
betray his comrades, and extort let-
Somewhat better known to the
ters or tapes condemning US policy
The most detailed account of the
world was the system of prisons in
and praising the leniency of his cap-
POW experience is John G. Hub-
and around Hanoi, centered on Hoa
tors. The prisoners were viewed by
bell's book P.O.W., published by
Lo, "The Hanoi Hilton." The first
North Vietnam as a propaganda
Reader's Digest Press in 1976.
88
AIR FORCE Magazine / February 1989
NOV-02-'89
11:54
ID:THOMSON
MCKINNON
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TEL NO: 214/761/5112
#104 P05
(915) (915) 546-2141
TEXAS
PRESS CLIPPING BURFAU
DALLAS
Established 1010
El Paso, Tx
Herald Post
I
Vietnam
vet takes
the bench
District court judge
calls office 'scary'
By Raul Hernandez
El Paso Herald-Post
431
With an oath, a new robe
and a kiss, Jose Troche was
sworn in as judge of the 168th
District Court on Friday.
"You may kiss the new
judge," Judge Ward Koehler
told Troche's wife, Iris, after
the oath of office.
BELLY CALZADA STAFF PHOTOGARAPHER
"It's scary," said the newly
Jose Troche, new 168th District Court judge, is helped with his robe
appointed judge after the cere-
by his wife, Iris, after being sworn in Friday by Judge Ward
mony. "It's quite a responsibil-
Koehler.
ity
While Troche was being
Judges sworn in at mid-
The man whom Troche re-
sworn in, three of his children
night PAGE B-5
places is glad Clements se-
sat in the background with
lected Troche.
wide smiles.
graduated from high school,"
"Joe Troche has been a
Troche, a Republican, was
he said. "Six months after I
friend of mine for several
appointed to the district court
graduated from high school, I
years," Koehler said, "and
by Texas Gov. Bill Clements
was in (Army) Officer Candi-
he is a good attorney.
last week. He replaces
date School. Six months after
When he is not in court,
Koehler, who was elected to
that I was commissioned a
Troche says he spends a lot of
the 8th District Court of
second lieutenant. And six
time with his children, Mi-
Appeals last month.
months after that I was in
chael, 13; Maria, 11; Michelle,
The 42-year-old Troche is no
combat."
9; Matthew, 6; and A.J.,
stranger to making tough
The young soldier quickly
7 months old.
decisions that affect people's
learned about responsibility
Troche said he doesn't want
lives.
and how to make hard, fast
to be an "activist" judge who
At 21, Jose Troche was a
decisions.
makes laws.
second lieutenant leading a
"You went out every morn-
"That would not be my
combat infantry platoon dur-
ing looking for people who
emphasis to try and make
ing heavy fighting in the 1968
were angry at you," he said
law," he said. "People elected
Tet offensive in Vietnam.
and laughed. "Those were
the Legislature to make the
"I was 19 years old when I
hairy times."
law.'
NOV-02-'89 11:55 THOMSON MCKINNON DAL TEL NO: 214/761/5112
#104 P06
DATTAS
Home (214) 263-7261
Grand Prairie, TX
School (214) 264-2704
News
(Cir. D. 8,202)
431
From jungled walls
to hallowed halls
Decorated Vietnam veteran turned
experience as mediator into career as
Grand Prairie educator
By CARON WONG
in the war zone, and more than
News Staff Writer
a few of his duties put him in
disadvantageous positions.
Today. Vern Alexander walks
"It was my duty to fly all
the quiet halls of Jackson Mid-
over Vietnam making sure peo-
die School. preparing for the
ple in various company's were
coming school year, his first as
doing fine. I also flew on a daily
principal. But 19 years ago, he
mail run from Nhatrang to Sai-
walked through the disquieting
gon. After a little while I decid-
jungles of Vietnam as a special
ed that being a mail carrier is
assistant to two U.S. Army
not a safe job, I got out of that
coionels.
The Grand Prairie native
"
was drafted in 1969 at the age of
eventually I
22. As a college graduate, he
held the rank of specialist five
became
and the position as liaison be-
tween the two colonels and their
troops. He served as a mediator
accustomed to war;
between the enlisted men and
their leader. while ensuring the
safety of the colonels.
I became
dation
"Most of the enlisted men in
Vietnam were wild and mean.
accustomed to the
When you're in a position as the
enlisted men were, you take
your anger out on the man in
danger."
charge. My position was to pro-
tect the colonel," Alexander
said.
- Vern Alexander
As a liaison, Alexander was
able to stay out of most of the
fighting.
fast," he said. "I knew sooner or
"I didn't have to carry a gun
later we were going to get shot.
if 1 didn't want to," he sald. "I
"The colonel and 1 would
don't know if I just got used to it
drive around in Vietnam looking
(the danger) or if I got a little
for weak spots. But we would al-
crazy, but it got to where I
ways know when they would at-
would take anyone's guard duty
tack and how they would come.
for $20. I would take my little
Our informants would tell US.
black dog and he'd watch for
One time we were told they
me. If anything moved. he'd tell
would come by land and by air
irn Alexander talks of his year in Vietnam, where he
me."
and that we wouldn't be able to
celved the Bronze Star for outstanding meritorious
But as the right-hand man of
rvice.
the colonel. Alexander was put
See VET, Page 3A
Vet: Vietnam experience with Alexander forever
P07
vive or lose our lives. That's the ul-
Star. The service medal is awarded
Middle School and has only nine
Continued from Page 1A
timate sacrifice.'
to all Vietnam Veterans, the com-
hours to go to obtain superinten-
"The most nerve-wracking thing
mendation medal is for "meritori-
dent certification.
hold them. That was one
about Vietnam is the loneliness,'
ous service in support of military
Alexander said he took the dis-
time I was afraid," Alexander said.
he said. "That's what would kill
operations against communist ag-
cipline he learned in the military
"That night I lost about 30 pounds,
you or make you want to kill your-
gression in the Republic of Viet-
and applies it to his life, both at
sweating. But they never came."
self. Being 8,000 miles away from
nam" and the Bronze Star is for
home and at school.
Fear was something soldiers in
home really can have a devastat-
"outstanding meritorious service in
"I'm a strict disciplinarian. I
Vietnam got used to, Alexander
ing effect on you.
connection with military opera-
think [ draw from my combined
said. It arrived with the men as
"Instead of saying we were
tions against a hostile force in the
experience of growing up in the
they stepped onto the foreign soil.
coming back home, we'd say we
Republic of Vietnam."
'60s and Vietnam, to deal with
It was their constant companion
were coming back to the world."
day and night. And like any com-
When Alexander returned to the
Back in "the world," Alexander
young people and their problems,"
he said.
panion, the men got used to it, even
world he decided to use his GI Bill
became involved in education,
though they didn't particularly like
and get a master's degree.
both personally and professionally.
"The good part about Nam, if
it.
He now has 40 hours toward a doc-
you can say that, is that we are not
}
11:56 MCKINNON DAL TEL NO:214/761/5112
"There's a certain sadness about
"I don't think any one person
torate degree and he obtained ad-
engaged in a military conflict now,
the whole Vietnam experience
can go through a war zone and
ministrative certification from
the draft is DO longer used and par-
come back the same," he said. "It's
East Texas State University. After
ents don't have to give up their kids
when I think about the lives that
were lost and when I think about
a change that comes over you.
to a war.
teaching at Adams Middle School
Even years after being back, there
for three years, he became the as-
"Vietnam is a sad part of my ex-
1
the heartaches of mothers and fa-
thers. Even though I got back from
are things I can remember as plain
sistant principal at Jackson Middle
perience, not so much that it burt
Nam, there's still a certain sadness
as yesterday. The main thing is to
School, serving there for three
me, and I know it did, but it hurt so
get yourself involved in something
many other people. 1 don't know
about the whole experience. That's
years.
what makes me have very tittle pa-
that will take up most of your time.
that they were able to get back and
I came back and decided to go to
Alexander was then sent to
channel their lives in a useful man-
tience with those who tell me about
graduate school."
South Grand Prairie High School
ner. The friends I had in the ser-
sacrifices, or with those who have
as an assistant principal for three
vice who came back, I don't know
trouble doing that which is right.
Today, Alexander is reminded
years and this past year he served
bow they're doing today. I keep
You have to keep in mind that they
of his part in history by a Vietnam-
as assistant principal at Grand
wondering about all the guys
took us 8,000 miles away from
ese Service Medal, an Army Com-
Prairie High School.
booked on drugs. What happened
home and we had to fight to sur-
mendation Medal and a Bronze
Now he is principal at Jackson
to them after Vietnam?"
68.-20-NON
11/08/89 16:12
$202 523 4357
NAT' L ARCHIVES
001/005
National
OF
Archives
MI SECURITY
Washington, DC 20408
TELECOPY TRANSMITTAL INFORMATION
Telecopier: 202-323-4357
NATIONAL ARCHIVES
AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION
7th and Pennsylvania Ave
Washington, D.C. 20408
From:
MARGARET ADAMS
CENTER FOR ELECTRONIC RECORDS
(NNX)
Telecopier # Sent To:
456-6218
Date:
11-8-89
Time:
4:10
To:
STEPHANIE BLESSEY
OFFICE OF SPEECH WRITING
THE WHITE HOUSE
Special Instructions or Memage:
Number of Pages, Including This Cover Sheet:
5
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16:12
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National
AND
RECORDS
THE
Archives
1985 NATURAL
Washington, DC 20408
November 8, 1989
Ms. Stephanie Blessey
office of Speech Writing - Research
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Ms. Blessey:
I am writing in response to your discussions by telephone earlier
today with Ms. Margaret O. Adams of our Center for Electronic
Records. You had called Ms. Adams for verification of some
statistics that are to be used by President George W. Bush in an
address on Friday, November 10, 1989, at the dedication of the
Texas Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
The statistics for which you sought verification concerned those
who served, those who died, and those who were wounded in the
Vietnam Conflict. Ms. Adams explained that compiled records in
the custody of the National Archives on this subject were limited
to those that document the deaths of U.S. military personnel in
the Southeast Asian combat area. She recommended that you
consult with the Office of Public Affairs, Department of Defense,
concerning the most appropriate statistic to use regarding the
total number of persons who served during the Vietnam Conflict
and suggested the possibility that the Veterans Administration
may have an estimate of the number of persons who were wounded.
Beyond this, statistics published in the 1987 issue of the
Statistical Abstract of the United States indicate that 303.6
thousand personnel were wounded nonfatally during the Vietnam
Conflict (Table 549, p. 328).
The specific statistics you sought to verify were that:
a.) 58,022 Americans died as a result of the Vietnam Conflict,
including persons declared dead from a missing or captured
status;
b.) 3,243 Texans were among them;
c.) Texas casualties came from over 600 cities and towns;
d.) Texas casualties ranked third among the fifty states in
terms of the total number of casualties.
The Vietnam Conflict casualty records in the custody of our
Center for Electronic Records constitute an electronic dataset
known as the [Southeast Asian] Combat Area Casualties Current
File (CACCF), records of the Office of the Secretary of Defense
(R.G. 330). We enclose a description of these records. The most
recent transfer of the CACCF to the National Archives was in
National Archives and Records Administration
11/08/89 16:13
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NAT' L ARCHIVES
003/005
2
March 1989. We enclose a copy of a distribution of the records
of the CACCF, as of March 3, 1989, on the variable for the state
of "home of record" for each casualty. You will note that these
records show:
a.) 58,152 U.S. military personnel were casualties of the
conflict in Southeast Asia, including persons declared
dead from a missing or captured status;
b.) 3,415 personnel with a Texas "home of record" were among
them;
c.) Texas ranks third among the fifty states, the District of
Columbia, and U.S. territories in the total number of U.S.
military personnel who died as a result of the conflict
in Southeast Asia. California had 5,573 casualties, and
the state of New York had 4, 118.
d.) The records of the casualty dataset include city or town
of "home of record" for each casualty; however, staff of
our Center for Electronic Records have no easy way to
count the number of unique cities or towns for any given
state. Extracts of the complete dataset, on the basis of
the "home of record" of the casualties, have been prepared
and are available in printout form.
Finally, you had raised the question of whether the records in
our custody include "the missing.' As Ms. Adams explained, the
records of the Combat Area Casualties Current File represent
final records for all casualties of the conflict in Southeast
Asia, and include records for persons who were declared dead from
a missing or captured status and whose bodies have not been
recovered. The dataset includes only one record indicating that
an individual is still captured. None indicate personnel are
still missing. However, personnel declared dead from a missing
or captured status whose bodies have not been recovered are
frequently referred to as "still missing." Using the Texas list
of casualties, Ms. Adams estimates that there are 119 personnel
listed who are recorded as having been declared dead from a
missing or captured status whose bodies have not been recovered.
We hope this information is useful. If you have any further
questions, Ms. Adams or other staff of our Center for Electronic
Records would be pleased to assist you.
Sincerely,
Grudy TRUDY HUSKAMP Huskams PETERSON Peterson
Assistant Archivist
for the National Archives
(202) 523-3130
Enclosures
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004/005
National
AND
RECORDS
Archives
1985 SECURITY
Washington, DC 20408
RECORD GROUP 330, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
[Southeast Asia] Combat Area Casualties Current File,
as of March 1989
The Combat Area Casualties Current File contains records with final
data on U.S. military personnel who died as a result of hostilities
(killed in action, died from wounds, died while missing, or died while
captured) or other causes (died from illness or injury, nonhostile;
died from other nonhostile causes; died while missing, nonhostile) in
Cambodia, Communist China, Laos, North Vietnam, South Vietnam, or
Thailand during the conflict in Southeast Asia. It also includes a
record for one person whose casualty status is coded to indicate that
he is still captured. There is one data record for each individual,
58,152 in all. The dates of death range from 1957 to 1988.
The dataset was created by the Comptroller of the Office of the
Secretary of Defense by directive of January 20, 1967. Responsibility
for continuing maintenance was transferred in 1973 to the Directorate
for Information Operations and Reports (DIOR), Washington Headquarters
Services, a field activity of the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
The source for information stored in these records is Department of
Defense Form 1300 (Report of Casualty) submitted to DIOR by each of the
four military service branches, and from the U.S. Coast Guard (U.S.
Department of Transportation). This dataset continues to be maintained
by DIOR and staff there add, delete, or revise records as new
information is received from the casualty offices of each of the
military service branches. The dataset was most recently transferred
to the National Archives in March, 1989; these records supersede
previous transfers of the Combat Area Casualties File. Access to the
final records of deceased casualties is completely open; selected
variables have been identified as nonreleasable in the record for the
still-captured casualty.
The variables potentially available in each final casualty record
include: Military Service Branch, Country of Casualty, Type of
Casualty, File Reference Number, Name of Casualty, [record] Processing
Date, Service or Social Security Number, Military Grade, Pay Grade,
Date of Death, Home of Record (city and state), Military Occupation
Code, Birth Date, Reason (cause of casualty), Aircraft Involvement
(air/non-air casualty), Race, Religion, Length of Service, Marital
Status, Sex, Citizenship Status, Posthumous Promotion, Date Southeast
Asian Tour Began (Data Missing or Captured in some records), Final
Record Code, Body Status, Service Component, and a 33-character
comments field.
National Archives and Records Administration
11/08/89
16:14
202 523 4357
NAT' L ARCHIVES
1
005/005
08 MAR 89
Combat Area Casualties, Current File, 21 Oct 1957-3 Mar 1989
PAGE 20
14:00:37
Records of the Office of the Secretary of Defense (RG 330)
HOMSTATE HOME OF RECORD STATE CODE
VALID
CUM
VALUE LABEL
VALUE
FREQUENCY
PERCENT
PERCENT
PERCENT
CANAL ZONE
CZ
2
.0
.0
.0
GUAM
GU
70
.1
.1
.1
REPRODUCED AT THE NAT TONAL ARCHI YES
PUERTO RICO
PR
345
.6
.6
.7
AMERICAN SAMOA
so
4
.0
.0
.7
VIRGIN ISLANDS
VQ
15
.0
.0
.7
OTHER
XX
121
.2
.2
1.0
NOT REPORTED
ZZ
4
.0
.0
1.0
ALABAMA
01
1205
2.1
2.1
3.0
ALASKA
02
57
.1
.1
3.1
ARIZONA
03
622
1.1
1.1
4.2
ARKANSAS
04
589
1.0
1.0
5.2
CALIFORNIA
05
5573
9.6
9.6
14.8
COLORADO
06
620
1.1
1.1
15.9
CONNECTICUT
07
612
1.1
1.1
16.9
DELAWARE
08
122
.2
.2
17.1
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
09
242
.4
.4
17.5
FLORIDA
10
1949
3.4
3.4
20.9
GEORGIA
11
1581
2.7
2.7
23.6
MAWAII
12
277
.5
.5
24.1
IDAHO
13
217
.4
.4
24.5
ILLINOIS
14
2930
5.0
5.0
29.5
INDIANA
15
1531
2.6
2.6
32.1
IOWA
16
852
1.5
1.5
33.6
KANSAS
17
626
1.1
1.1
34.7
KENTUCKY
18
1054
1.8
1.8
36.5
LOUISIANA
19
881
1.5
1.5
38.0
MAINE
20
344
.6
.6
38.6
MARYLAND
21
1014
1.7
1.7
40.3
MASSACHUSETTS
22
1322
2.3
2.3
42.6
MICHIGAN
23
2648
4.6
4.6
47.2
MINNESOTA
24
1071
1.8
1.8
49.0
MISSISSIPPI
25
637
1.1
1.1
50.1
MISSOURI
26
1411
2.4
2.4
52.5
MONTANA
27
269
.5
.5
53.0
NEBRASKA
28
395
.7
.7
53.7
NEVADA
29
150
.3
.3
53.9
NEW HAMPSHIRE
30
226
.4
.4
54.3
NEW JERSEY
31
14811
2.5
2.5
56.9
NEW MEXICO
32
399
.7
.7
57.6
NEW YORK
33
4118
7.1
7.1
64.6
NORTH CAROLINA
34
1609
2.8
2.8
67.4
NORTH DAKOTA
35
198
.3
.3
67.7
OHIO
36
3091
5.3
5.3
73.1
OKLAHOMA
37
988
1.7
1.7
74.8
OREGON
38
708
1.2
1.2
76.0
PENNSYLVANIA
39
3142
5.4
5.4
81.4
RHODE ISLAND
40
207
.4
.4
81.7
SOUTH CAROLINA
41
895
1.5
1.5
83.3
SOUTH DAKOTA
42
195
.3
.3
83.6
TENNESSEE
43
1291
2.2
2.2
85.8
TEXAS
44
3415
5.9
5.9
91.7
UTAH
45
365
.6
.6
92.3
VERMONT
46
100
.2
.2
92.5
VIRGINIA
47
1304
2.2
2.2
94.7
WASHINGTON
48
1050
1.8
1.8
96.5
WEST VIRGINIA
49
731
1.3
1.3
97.8
WISCONSIN
50
1158
2.0
2.0
99.8
WYOMING
51
119
.2
.2
100.0
TOTAL
58152
100.0
100.0
VALID CASES
58152
MISSING CASES
0