My dad served with the USMC from 1948-1957, and fought in Korea. From 1958-1969 he served with, and eventually retired from the Army. Yes, he fought in Vietnam as well.
23 MAY 65, was a brutal day. I only learned of the events that day, after my dad passed away. The abbreviated story is that of the three American advisors that day, only one came home.
SFC Edward Kenney is listed on Panel 01E, Line 123 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (The Wall). SFC Kenney was 32 years old. His body was recovered.
Captain Orien Judson (Jim) Walker Jr. is listed on Panel 01E, Line 124 of The Wall. Capt Walker was taken as a Prisoner of War by the Viet Cong on 23 MAY 65, and died in captivity on 04 FEB 66, also at the age of 32. He was posthumously promoted to the rank of Major. His remains have not been recovered, as of the last time I inquired.
My dad, Staff Sergeant Willis E. (Phil) Phillips, was awarded The Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device, as well as the Purple Heart (again), with First Oak Leaf Cluster.
I am attaching a photo of my mom and dad that was on the cover of a model airplane magazine in JUL 69.
I quietly served in the Air Force, and am appreciative of those that died while serving our great Country, such as Kenney and Walker. I am thankful that my family name is not listed on Panel 01E.
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