I know some of you have already seen this, but I thought it only fitting to share it again because the 53rd anniversary of John's death falls on Memorial Day this year. This is something I wrote to honor John on Memorial Day 2014. It was printed in a Chicago area newspaper. John was killed when our patrol was ambushed on May 31, 1968 just outside of Con Thien. His death, as well as many others, have had a profound impact on my life. Thanks for the memories, John.
Memorial Day 2014
This week marks the 46th anniversary of your death. Friends and families will be getting together this Memorial Day weekend to celebrate the unofficial start of summer. Unfortunately, most will give little or no thought to you or the thousands upon thousands of brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. I will think about you and all the others as I do every day. Your beautiful smile is forever etched into my mind’s eye.
Today I am reminded of how truly blessed I am to be able to smell the delicate fragrance of blooming lilacs, the aroma of countless grills riding the breeze in our neighborhood, and the scent of freshly mowed grass. Simple pleasures that you gave up so long ago that we take for granted. I want you to know that you are greatly missed and will never be forgotten. I have kept your spirit alive in my heart and you are my hero. Semper Fidelis
In memory of John A. Dennis
“H” Co 2/26 Marines
KIA May 31, 1968
Vietnam
Ironically, John was buried at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO on June 14, 1968, which would have been his 20th birthday. His daughter, Catrina, was born 6 days later on June, 20, 1968.
May he rest in eternal peace. ~~ God Bless and Semper Fidelis!!!