As Christmas is only two days away, it makes me think back 55 years ago. We were on bridge watch outside Phi Bai. The day was spent sitting around on the bridge and night on a random would drop TNT into the river. Cpl Tom Phillips was my team leader and we put up a tree branch as a Christmas tree and hung C-ration cans and lids on it for decoration. We had traded some C-ration to some kids for a chicken which we planned for Christmas dinner. On Christmas day the chaplin and cooks showed up in a 2 1/2 truck. They had rolled turkey with all the trimmings in mermite cans. It was enjoyable to have some hot chow. It was not known then but it would be the last Christmas dinner that some would have. My friend Tom Phillips and so many others would be lost at LZ Margo. So on Christmas day remember what the day is really about. Embrace you family and friends as you never know when out time will come to join or brothers, MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT.
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Thanks Jerry, very well said. I for one (1) will be spending Christmas with my friends from all those years ago--some lost then, others lost since. I will continue to hold their memories close to my heart and reflect on all that has happened, as well as what I can accomplish in my remaining time since the good Lord has chosen for me to 'walk Tail End Charlie' and carry on. It will be the most peaceful, joyous, productive, Christmas I've had in a whole lot of years. God Bless one (1) and all.