2. Ronald Eli Alincic was born on May 11, 1946, the son of Esther and Eli Alincic of Mt. Pleasant. He graduated from Hurst High School. He had one brother and two sisters. Alincic enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was drafted into the Army, serving as a member of the 198^th Light Infantry Brigade. His tour of duty began on August 16, 1968. Ronald Eli Alincic was killed on October 12, 1968, in Quang Tin, South Vietnam. He was twenty-two years old at the time of his death.

3.  William E. Anderson Jr. was born on June 2, 1947, son of William E. and Susanna Kunkle Anderson. He had one brother, David.  William attended school in Southwest and Connellsville.  Prior to his enlistment, he was employed by the Jack Brown Land Clearing Company.  He was living in Acme when he was drafted into the Army.  Anderson was a member of Company B, second Battalion, 28^th Regiment, First Infantry Division and achieved the rank of SP4.  His tour of duty began on March 10, 1967.  A member of a mortar team, he died as a result of a gunshot wound received when hit by hostile small arms fire while returning from a combat operation and going into a night position.  He died on October 9, 1967 in Binh Long, South Vietnam. He was twenty years old.

4.  John Antonace Jr. was born on September 22, 1949.  He was living in Lower Burrell when he joined the Marine Corp and attained the rank of Lance Corporal.  Antonace's tour of duty began on February 7, 1968. He was eighteen years old at the time of his casualty on July 7, 1968. John Antonance was in Quang Tri, South Vietnam where he was killed by artillery, rocket or mortar fire.

5.  David Raymond Balzarini was born on October 24, 1948 in Pittsburgh, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond R. Balzarini.  He attended the Sacred Heart School in Jeannette and was a member of the Sacred Heart Parish. David graduated from Jeannette High School, Class of 1966.  He attended Airline School in Minneapolis, MN. David enjoyed target shooting and trapshooting and sometimes helped at Hartzell’s Gun Shop.  His hobbies were woodworking and painting in watercolors.  David Balzarini was working at the Elliott Company as an office employee when he was drafted into the Army. His tour of duty began in November of 1968. Balzarini was a Private First Class in Company A, Third Battalion, 1^st Infantry, 11^th Infantry Brigade, American Division. He was 20 years old when he was killed on January 19, 1969 in Quang Ngai, South Vietnam.  PFC Balzarini was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart, an Army Commendation Medal and various commendations and medals from the republic of South Vietnam.

Information contributed by his mother, Louise Battaglini Balzarini Atchison.

6.  Kenneth Barkley was born in Elkins, WV, on June 24, 1941. He attended Elkins High but did not receive his diploma until May 24, 1961 from the state of West Virginia. He got his GED on September 26, 1960, while in the service at Fort Clayton, Canal Zone. He had basic training at Fort Jackson, SC after enlisting in July of 1958 He completed the course in General Airborne Subjects, Ground Training and Jumping from an aircraft in flight on the 17th of December 1958 at the Airborne School, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He was discharged in July 1961.

     He then drove a taxicab in Punta Gorda, FL, until he started working for the Florida State Road Department. He was discharged from the Army Reserves on June 30, 1964. He married Carol Roadman on August 8, 1964 in Mayville, New York. They resided in Rector, PA, where he worked for United States Steel in Pittsburgh.

     He reenlisted in the army on February 19, 1965.  He went to Ft Dix, NJ, for basic training and was then transferred to Ft. Eustis, Virginia where he was named “Outstanding Student Soldier of the Month” for the month of October 1965. He attended the US Army Transportation School where he got a diploma on the 5th of November 1965 for Single-engine Single-Rotor Helicopter Repair Course.  He also got a diploma on December 17, 1965, for Multi-Engine Tanden-Rotor Helicopter Repair Course.  He received a certificate for 72 hours of Lvcoming T-53 Gas Turbine Engine Operation and Maintenance Course on May 11, 1966, in Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He reenlisted for six years in November of 1967 receiving a record bonus of $8,982 for a Fort Campbell reenlistment. While stationed at Fort Campbell, his first son John Fred Barkley was born on the 12th of November 1966 and his second son Kenneth Ray Barkley Jr. was born on March 11, 1968.  Kenneth and his wife enjoyed shooting skeet at the gun club while stationed at Fort Campbell and at Sugarbush, PA.

     On the 29th of May 1968 he received the honor graduate diploma for Rotary Wing Technical Inspector Course and also a Letter of Commendation for having attained the highest academic average in his class. This was at the U.S. Army Transportation School at Fort Eustis, VA.  Barkley was also promoted to Spec 6 at this time. In the fall of 1968 he was sent to Vietnam. On Feb.22, 1969 he received the Aircraft Crewman Badge. On March 23, 1969 he died in Vietnam while on a military mission near Phu Bai, north of DaNang.

At the time of his death, he was serving with the 5^th Transportation Battalion.

Contibuted by Carol Barkley Benson.

7.  Sgt. Robert Randolph Beanner, from New Alexander, was born on October 6, 1947, the son of Charles and Mable Beanner. Robert's nickname was Randy. Randy attended Derry High School before he and his twin brother, Charles R. "Ricky" Beanner enlisted in the Marine Corp in January 1965. Sgt. Beanner served in the Marine Corp for three years. Randy Beanner's tour of duty began on May 7, 1968 and he was killed five days later on May 12^th at the age of twenty. His name is on Panel 58 E, Line 30 on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D. C. Randy has 3 sisters. Nancy {Gongo} Anderson, Debra DeCriscio, and Donna Dempsey. Randy was a great son brother and friend to every one that knew him. "GOD BLESS YOU,ONE OF OUR FALLEN HEROES. WE LOVE AND MISS YOU, YOU WILL ALWAYS BE WITH US IN OUR HEARTS DEAR SON AND BROTHER." Message and update is from The Beanner Family 2/19/2011

8.  Donald Charles Bennett Jr. was born on October 22, 1948. From Sunset Valley he enlisted in the Marine Corp where he attained the rank of PFC/E2 His tour of duty began on August 25, 1967. On Feb 29, 1968, at the age of 19, Donald Charles Bennett perished in service to our country in Quang Tri, South Vietnam. PFC Bennett is buried in Arlington National Cemetary.   His name can be found on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Panel 42 E, Row 2.

9.  John Micheal Beyrand was born on November 11, 1945 in Wyano, the son of Frank and Theresa Beyrand.  He had one brother Frank.  John graduated from South Huntingdon High School, class of 1963.  Beyrand  was drafted into the Army and served with the1st Cav Division, Air Mobile Unit. His tour of duty began on October 25, 1966. John Beyrand died in a helicopter crash on August 9, 1967 in Quang Ngai, South Vietnam. He was posthumously awarded a Silver Star and a Purple Heart.  His name is on Panel 24E, Line 93 on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

#10. Barry Alan Bidwell was born January 13, 1948 in Scranton, PA.  He lived most of his life in New York State.  He attended Elementary school in Auburn and Conklin, NY. He graduated from Griggith High School in Springville, NY, on June 25, 1967.  He then attended Alfred State University in Alfred, NY from September 1967 to June 1968.  He studied weights and measures. He worked at a brake re-shoeing business across from Greengate Mall before entering the service.  Bidwell enlisted in the U. S. Navy on September 16, 1968. He served on the U.S.S. Oriskany in the Gulf of Tonkin and Da Nang as a jet mechanic.  Because of his desire to fly, he became a crewmember on a refueling tanker.  On June 18, 1971, after refueling two jets in air, the tanker crashed into the Gulf of Tonkin.  No recovery of the three men in the plane was possible. His parents, Charles and Janet Bidwell, a brother, Robert, and a sister, Pamela, survive him.

#11. Francis Joseph Birchak, called Frankie, was born on May 28, 1936.  He was raised in Westmoreland County at Latrobe, R. D. #2, not far from Twin Lakes Park, on the same roadway. Birchak attended grade school at Mellon School, Unity Twp.  He graduated from Greensburg High School with the class of 1954.  For two years he attended Tri-State College in Angola, Indiana. Birchak enlisted in the Air Force on Oct. 14, 1955.  He was a pilot and loved flying both the big and little planes. He served in the Air Force for twelve years.  Captain Birchak was piloting a small plane that almost skimmed the treetops, seeking the enemy hideouts in Vietnam when his plane was shot down.  Francis had gotten three miles from the plane and was shot in the head. The Birchak family never heard what became of the lieutenant who was with him. Francis Birchak died on January 11, 1969.

     Captain Birchak’s body was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Beside his family from Latrobe area, his wife, Shirley, survived him.

Contributed by Mrs. Francis J. Birchak, his mother.

 #12. Joseph Leonard Bridge from Latrobe was born on December 24, 1946, the son of Gregory and Helen Bridge. Bridge was quiet and reserved.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing and working on cars.  In high school at Latrobe Joseph enjoyed writing and he studied journalism for two years.  Bridge was a private in the Marine Corp and had served one year when he was killed by an explosive devise in Quang Ngai, South Vietnam. He died on March 5, 1967. He was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart, and two Vietnam Service medals.

13. Harmon Charles Burd was born on October 13, 1936 in Derry, the son of John Richard and Ida Marie Wolf Burd. He was the fifth of six sons. Harmon Burd graduated from Derry High School.  He enlisted in the Army from Derry and served for six years in the 1st infantry division. Sgt. Burd was married on September 1, 1961 to Maria Anna Dorligo who was born in Trieste, Italy. They had one son, James Scott Burd, a stepson Harold, and a stepdaughter Kathy. Harmon Burd was drafted and entered service in the US Army on November 18, 1959. He completed his basic training at Fort Knox, KY and his advanced individual training at Forth Sam Houston Texas. In April of 1960, Burd was assigned to the 516th Medical Company and transferred to his unit in Germany under the Seventh Army. He was stationed in Germany from 1960 until April of
1964. While in Germany, he served as a Medical Aidman and Ambulance Driver for the 516th Medical Company, the 226th Medical Company and the 428th Medical Company. Burd’s last station in Germany was in Ludwigsburg. In April of 1964 he was transferred to Fort Knox, KY to complete the Medical Specialist (Corpsman) course, which he did in October of 1965. Burd was then assigned to the Headquarters, Headquarters Company of the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry
Regiment of the 1st Infantry Division. He was transferred to his unit in South Vietnam in February 1966. Sergeant Burd arrived in country on Feb. 3, 1966 and assigned to his company on the 4th. On February 23, 1966, at the age of 29, Harmon Charles Burd was listed as killed in action as result of gunshot wound to right leg received in hostile ground action.  He wrote several letters home in the three weeks he was in Vietnam and mentioned being assigned to a line company and participating in patrols in search of mines. Sergeant Burg also mentioned a large field exercise on the 21st in which he was to participate. He was awarded the following decorations: Marksman – Carbine, Sharpshooter- M14, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Purple Heart.
 

14. Charles Kenton Burkart Jr. from Greensburg was born on June 28, 1949, the son of Charles and Rachel Gold Burkart. He had three siblings, William Joseph, Sarah H., and Timothy M. Burkart. Charles attended the Blessed Sacrament Cathedral and Greensburg Salem High School. He enlisted in the Marine Corps the day after his 18^th birthday on June 29, 1967. Charles completed basic training at Parris Island, and then continued his training at Camp Lejune..

 LCPL Burkart shipped out to Vietnam in November and began his tour of duty on December 11, 1967. An explosive device killed him on June 22, 1968. He was supposed to be on R & R at the time he died.  Burkart was proud to serve as a Marine. He was awarded the following medals: Marksmanship, a Purple Heart, and Vietnam Service Medal. Charles Burkart was just a few days from his nineteenth birthday when he died in Quang Nam, South Vietnam.

15. Sergeant Michael John Charley, from New Kensington, served for four years in the Marine Corp. He was born on December 11, 1946 and was twenty-one years old when he died on May 5, 1968.  His name is on panel 55E, Line 5 on the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C. 

16. Louis John Clevert from Westmoreland City served in the U.S. Air Force for twelve years.   His tour of duty began on Oct. 7, 1968. Tsgt Clevert was killed on February 5, 1969 in Laos, the result of an air crash. He was married and was thirty-two years old when he died.

17. James Frew Collins was a member of the Army’s 101^st Airborne Brigade. His tour of duty began on May 28, 1970. CWO Collins died on February 9, 1971 in Quang Tri, South Vietnam as a result of a helicopter crash.  He was married and was from Vandergrift.

#18. John James Collins was born in Pittsburgh on February 21, 1946, the son of Mr. & Mrs. James Collins.  The family moved to the Kiski Area in 1954.  John attended Oklahoma Elementary School.  He graduated from the Washington Twp. High School, the last class before it became part of the Kiski Area District.  Collins entered the Army shortly there after, and soon earned the rank of Spec 4 as a radiotelephone operator, with the 4^th Division, Infantry.  His tour of duty began on May 19, 1967. John was killed on Nov 11, 1967 in a battle in the Central Highlands, near the city of Dak To, while trying to aid his fellow soldiers in Company B, 3^rd Battalion, 8^th Infantry. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star Medal with “V” device.  Excerpts from the citation for bravery read as follows:  “For Heroism in connection with military operations in the Republic of Vietnam against a hostile force.  With complete disregard for his own safety, Sp. 4 Collins began treating the wounded and carrying them to safety.  When the Company Commander was wounded, he raced to his aid and as he was treating him, Cp. Collins was mortally wounded.”

     A second “unofficial” honor was paid him in a book written by Charles B. Flood entitled, The War of the Innocents.  The author was so impressed by John’s fine character in several of their conversations, that he dedicated the book to him, along with three high-ranking officers!

He is survived by his mother, Mrs. June E. Collins and his brother, Ronald C. Collins who reside in N. Washington Twp.  He is buried in Riverview Cemetery in Apollo, PA.

His mother, Mrs. June Collins, contributed this article.

19. SFC Edward Jan Cox was born on December 11, 1930; he died January 24, 1966. He was 35 at the time of his death.  Cox had begun his tour of duty in the Republic of Vietnam on July 8, 1965. He arrived with the 101st Airborne Division, Screaming Eagles, on the troop ship USS Eldridge. Cox’s unit was part of Operation Van Buren (18 Jan -20 Feb 1966) near Tuy Hoa, RVN. His company was briefed that elements of the 95th Peoples Army of Vietnam Regiment, the 3rd Viet Cong Regiment and local Viet Cong companies were known to be operating north and west of Tuy Hoa. The major friendly units in the area were the 1st Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division, a Republic of Korea Brigade, and the 47th ARVN (Army of the Republic of Vietnam) Regiment. The 48th US Army Aviation Co. provided air support and mobility. US Air Force B-52 bombers were also engaged in missions nearby.
     The 101st had been tasked to assist in protecting the harvest of a rice crop. The enemy was moving in the area and attempting to gather part of the crops for their own sustenance. Cox’s unit was moving across open dried paddies that had recently been harvested and only stubble
remained. Crossing in small groups and individually Cox’s platoon made its
way across a paddy towards a cluster of trees and foliage. As the point man and two others neared the far side of the paddy hidden PAVN troops opened up on the platoon's lead element with automatic and carbine fire. Two of these lead troops were hit in the legs and fell to completely exposed positions. The platoon immediately directed counter fire towards the enemy
position. Momentarily the counter fire suppressed the ambushing fire. SFC Cox
left his position of cover and ran to one of the downed individuals and lifted him to his feet and ran with him back to a covered position. He turned and fired at the enemy with his M-16. The remaining still exposed individual came under fire. Cox once again left is position and began to run towards the wounded soldier. A few yards from his position he was hit in the upper chest area just below his fatigue lapels by two rounds of automatic weapons fire. Cox was mortally wounded by these hits. His platoon by now had flanked the ambush position and concentrated weapons fire silenced the three well-concealed PAVN troops. This action occurred early in the day and the 101st continued to encounter and engage many enemy positions in the area.
     SFC COX was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart for his wounds and the Silver Star for Gallantry in Action. His body was returned to United States and he was buried on a frozen winter’s day in Beverly National Cemetery, Beverly NJ with full military honors. He rests there now under a large maple which has grown to shade him.
     Cox’s career was that of a professional soldier. He served throughout Europe in Germany and France. He was the recipient of the General Patton Award for Excellence. He trained infantry troops in Fort Dix, NJ. He served as a proud member of the US First Army Rifle team and was an
expert marksman with M1, M14, and the new M16 Rifle. He shot at and was
awarded trophies for matches held between services. They are still on display at the marksmanship museum in Fort Dix, NJ. Cox was assigned to a Nike Anti-Aircraft Missile squadron outside of Pittsburgh, PA. He was also assigned as an instructor at the US Army's Airborne Training School in Fort Benning, GA. He very much loved the Army but we all struggled with its poor pay.

     His name can be found on panel 04E Line 084 of the Vietnam War memorial in Washington, DC. It is significant to note that his name lies near the center of the memorial signifying his casualty as one of the earlier ones in the war. Eventually some 55,000 other "brothers in arms"
were to join him. Each individual there is a soul wrenched from family, who gave their lives for a just cause.
     His son wrote, “My father was a happy man who always seemed self assured and smiling. Even when being the disciplinarian he would smile.  Lined up in a bathroom for a whipping he would instead get us out to the car and tell mom we were going to the woods so she wouldn't hear our crying and screams. Ten minutes later we would find ourselves eating ice cream cones at
a shop. That was my Dad. We all loved him very much and miss him immensely. I am proud to have his name on this memorial among the many others who all gave their all in the protection and defense of our nation’s freedoms.”

Biography written by Edward J. Cox, son of Edward Jan Cox

#20.  Richard Ivory Cullen was born in Greensburg, PA on August 25,1947. He was the eldest son of Myles Richard Cullen and Rosemary Cramer Cullen. Dick had four brothers and one sister. He attended and graduated from the Blessed Sacrament School and Greensburg Salem High School. While in high school, Dick belonged to the rifle and wrestling teams. He also worked at Harry’s Pizza, Thomas Drug Store, and Robertshaw. After graduation Cullen was drafted into the Army in October 1966. After basic training, he was sent to Fort Hood on December 22,1966, for further training. Sgt Cullen was in the infantry and went overseas to Vietnam as an infantryman, but after a year transferred to the armed division. His tour of duty began on October 6, 1967. Sgt. Cullen was assigned to an Armored Personnel Carrier, where he was killed on May 23,1968, in Quang Tin, South Vietnam.

     Dick enjoyed working on cars and riding his motorcycle. He was a Catholic and is buried at the Catholic Cemetery. The day he was buried was the day he had been scheduled to go on R&R.

     Mrs. Rosemary Cullen contributed this article about her son. In closing she wrote, “We miss him more than words can describe. His memory will be in out hearts forever.”

21. Kenneth John Dell served in the 199^th Light Infantry Bridage, U.S. Army.  SGT Dell was born on October 30, 1947 and lived in East Vandergrift. He served in the Army for one year until his death on November 5, 1968, in Hua Nghia, South Vietnam. He was 21 when he was killed serving his country. His name is on Panel 39 W, Line 21.    

22. Cpl Timothy Morgan Dick was from Greensburg and was born on September 9, 1947. He served for one year with the Marine Corp.  Cpl Dick's tour of duty began on July 21, 1967 and he was killed by hostile ground fire on December 11, 1967 in Quang Nam, South Vietnam.

#23. Lawrence Gerard Donaldson was born in Ligonier on November 2, 1950, the third of ten children. He attended Holy Trinity School from first to eighth grade.  Then he enrolled in Greensburg Central Catholic High School where he graduated with the class of 1968.

Larry became interested in herpetology when he was quite young.  At one time, he bought a five-foot boa constrictor.  His family lived with it for six months. It was a beautiful reptile. He had numerous pets through the years, not your usual cat and dog pets.

     After high school Larry was accepted at Ripon College in Wisconsin. The night before he was to send in his entrance fee, he was awake most of the night trying to decide what he should do; he was very concerned about the Vietnam War.  In the morning he told us that he was going to enlist in the Marines because he felt his first duty was to his country to help in the fight against communism.  He decided that he could not go to college.  On August 18, 1968, Lawrence Donaldson was sworn into the Marine Corp. He went to Parris Island, SC, for boot camp then to Camp LeJeune NC. His training was completed in time for him to come home for Christmas. One evening while walking to the bowling alley, some Vietnam War protestors attacked him. They cut a slit in the arm of his jacket with a knife; his arm was cut and required stitches. His Marine Corp training enabled him to defend himself so that he was not more severely injured. When he returned to his base, he found that his company was scheduled to depart to Vietnam.  His tour of duty began on Feb. 10, 1969. He was killed in action on February 25, 1969 while on a “search and clear” mission. He was only eighteen years old.

#24. Charles Steven Duddy served with the Air Force in Vietnam. He was from New Kensington and was born on January 21, 1947. A1C Duddy began his tour of duty on March 3, 1968. He died on New Year’s Day of 1969 in Binh Dinh, South Vietnam. His name is on Panel 35W, Line 15 of the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial in Washington, D. C.

#25.  Wilbur Truby Dunlap was Westmoreland's first casualty of the Vietnam War. Master Sargent Dunlap of Torrance was killed on October 15, 1963 while serving with the Military Assistance Advisory Group Forces in Vietnam. His unit was accompanying a squad of Rangers during a road clearing operation when ran into automatic weapons fire from an ambush. Sgt. Dunlap was a twelve-year veteran, enlisting in the Army paratroops when he was 18. He had been assigned to serve one year in Vietnam as an instructor.

     Dunlap was married to the former Betty McMillen of Fayettesville, NC. They had two sons, Timothy and Tommy. In the presence of her husband’s former comrades of the 82^nd Airborne Division, Mrs. Betty Dunlap accepted the medals won by her late husband, the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.  Sgt Dunlap was cited for providing timely assistance and frequently disregarding his own safety, exposing himself to hostile fire.  Mrs. Dunlap also received a special letter of condolence from President John Kennedy.

Sgt. Dunlap, born October 22, 1933, was the son of Mrs. Thelma McKee and Malcolm Dunlap.   

He had three brothers, Malcom, Jr., Dale B., and Earl Dunlap. He had one sister Mrs. Dalton Brubaker and two stepsisters, Bobbie McKee and Mrs. Janet Walker.

#26.  Dale Leon Eisaman was born on August 5, 1948 in Greensburg, the son of Earl and Helen Miller Eisaman of Arona. When Dale was a boy he was a member of the 4-H Covered Bridge Horse and Pony Club. He had a pony named Scotty that he rode as well as drove with a cart attached. Dale won blue ribbons at the Westmoreland County 4-H Round-up. He then competed in the PA State 4-H Show in Harrisburg where he won a first prize ribbon. Dale graduated from Hempfield High School in 1966.  He then attended Youngstown University’s Dana School of Music. He served in the high school and university bands.  He also served on the New Stanton Fair Board, working in the poultry, fruits, and vegetable divisions. Dale was a member of the St. Luke Lutheran Church of Youngwood and was employed by the D.M.E. Co. of Youngwood. 

     Eisaman joined the Army on June 19, 1968.  He won the Expert Marksman Award at Fort Jackson, S.C. and later took advanced infantry training at the same base. He went to Vietnam on November 8, 1968.  Dale died in combat near Da Nang on March 18, 1969.  His was the first war casualty in Arona since World War I.  Beside his parents, his brother Carl, sister-in-law Phyllis, niece Carol Ann and nephew Kevin survived him.  Dale was buried on Palm Sunday with full military rites in the historic Brush Creek Cemetery.  He was posthumously awarded the U.D. Army’s Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service during combat operations in Vietnam. Part of his citation read as follows: “His initiative, zeal, sound judgment and devotion to duty have been in the highest tradition of the U.S. Army and reflect great credit on him and the military service.” Dale also held the Purple Heart and several marksmanship medals and trophies. The family’s most comforting words of consolation came from his Chaplain who said, “Dale was truly a Christian soldier.” 

Information contributed by Helen Eisaman, Dale’s mother. 

#27.  Blaine W. Enos Jr. was a Specialist 4th Class and served with the U.S. Army
Company E, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division.  He was born on Christmas Day, in 1948, the son of Blaine Sr. and Eleanor Enos.  Blaine was a brother of Linda, Jerry, and Kathi and an uncle to Todd, Holly, Nikolaus, and Chelsea.  Blaine graduated from Derry Area High School in 1968. "Chip" was so nicknamed because by all accounts he was a well-behaved and happy baby. He was greatly loved by his parents and a role model for his younger siblings.  Throughout his childhood and school years Chip marched to the beat of a different drum, choosing to take the path less traveled. However, he was obedient and sensitive and enjoyed games of activity and challenge.

     He also was meant to serve his country. As an adolescent he would occupy
himself for hours in his room playing with his large collection of toy
soldiers. He developed quite a skill of strategy.
     A few years ago Chip's Platoon Sergeant wrote to our parents and told them that Chip had saved his life by urging him to jump out of the helicopter ahead of himself. Because of this unselfishness, Chip never made it home. The Sergeant said the last words he heard my brother say were, "It's an honor to die for my country, Sir." His Sergeant learned about Chip, in that last moment, something his family had always known.  Chip was a very special person. Our lives are less because he has not been with us.  While the Sergeant's words do not ease the pain and sorrow that is even yet present, they will stay in the hearts of his family forever and act as a mantra of courage. As his brother Jerry put it, "He will always be a hero to us and we still miss him."

     Blaine Enos received the following medals: Heroic or Meritorious Achievement;
Markmanship; Republic of Vietnam Service; Purple Heart.  Like all the young men who became causalities of the Vietnam War, they were..."Gone Too Soon".  Let none of them be forgotten.

Biography written by Linda Hoopes, his sister.

28. Jay Leroy Everett was born in Latrobe on December 22, 1927, the son of Arthur L. and Esther Mae Carr Everett.    He graduated from Latrobe High School in June 1949. Everett had three siblings: Arthur Everett of Winston Salem NC, Shirley Everett Hook of Latrobe, and the late William Everett.  He was married to the former Cora Esther Ambrose who passed away in 1996. Jay and Cora Everett had three children: Terry Jay Everett from Grove City PA, William Gerald Everett and Tami Lee Everett Best both from Mercer PA. His stepchildren were Margaret Stamboulian-Diamond Bar CA and Sandra White-Creal Springs IL. His grandchildren are Chelsea Eileen Best, and Gerald Jay Best from Mercer. Jay Everett enjoyed collecting coins as a hobby.

     Jay Everett began his military career with the US Navy and served from September 19, 1945 to November 22, 1948.  He was in the Navy Reserve from November 23, 1948 to August 22, 1953.  He served with the US Army Reserve from December 7, 1955 to October 1, 1957.  Beginning on October 2, 1957, he served in the US Army as a Special Agent with the US Army Counter Intelligence Corps 97B-40. His military rank was Sergeant First Class, E-7.  His tour of duty began on January 11, 1969.  He died in a helicopter crash in Pleiku, South Vietnam on July 25, 1969 at the age of 41.  He received the following medals: Bronze Star Medal (Posthumously Awarded for Meritorious Achievement) Vietnamese Military Merit Medal (Posthumously Awarded), Army Good Conduct Medal with One Silver Loop (Six Awards), Navy Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal with One Oak Leaf Cluster, American Defense Service Medal, World War II Service Medal, American Campaign Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Three Bronze Battle Stars, Meritorious Unit Commendation-US Army.

Hobbies:              Coin Collecting

29.  Raymond Gene Feld from Grapeville was born on May 25, 1941.  He served for four years in the Army.  His tour of duty began on June 28, 1968. Staff Sargent Geld died in Khanh Hoa, South Vietnam on February 2, 1969 at the age of 27. On the Wall in Washington D.C. his name appears on Panel 33W, Line 38.

#30. PFC John Micheal Galata was born on March 4, 1948 in Greensburg. John was Roman Catholic by faith.  He graduated from Greensburg Salem High in 1966. John enjoyed hunting in his spare time. His tour of duty began on December 16, 1967.  He was killed by hostile ground fire less than a month later on January 6, 1968 in Binh Duong, in South Vietnam. John was 19.

31. William H. Gamble from New Kensington was born on January 16, 1944.  He was a sergeant in the Army, serving in the 1^st Cav Division, Air Mobile Unit. His tour of duty began on March 14, 1966. He was killed on June 13, 1966 at the age of 22. Gamble had served in the Army for four years.

32. George Robert Garris of Greensburg was a private in the Marine Corp.  He served for one year.  His tour of duty began on August 29, 1968. He died on March 15, 1969 in Quang Nam, South Vietnam. He was born on April 3, 1949 and was 19 when he died.

#33. Lawrence Geiger was born on December 9, 1949, the son of Homer and Helen Seaman Geiger of Paintertown.  He was the youngest of nine sons and he had one sister.  He was a biker and he liked to fix cars.  Lawrence Geiger graduated from Penn Joint High School in 1969. He worked at U.S. Steel’s Edgar Thompson Works in Braddock until he was drafted into the Army.                        His tour of duty began on July 15, 1970 and he was killed in action one month later on August 22, 1970. Lawrence was only nineteen years old. He was awarded a purple heart, a Bronze Star, and Air Medal and a medal for Good Conduct. His brother David, a Vietnam Veteran himself, said Lawrence believed it was his obligation to go to Vietnam.

34.  Clifford Michael Gibson, from Irwin, was born on May 10, 1950. He enlisted in the Marine Corp and began his tour of duty on May 19, 1969.  PFC Gibson was killed by hostile ground fire on August 16, 1969, in Quang Nam, South Vietnam.

35.Timothy William Gilkey was born on November 28, 1947, the son of Woodrow William and Irene J. Gilkey of Irwin.  He had six brothers and two sisters. Timothy enjoyed baseball, hunting and cars.  Timothy graduated from Norwin High School with the class of 1966, the first class to graduate from the new school.  He immediately enlisted in the Marine Corp. His tour of duty began on October 29, 1967.  LCPL Gilkey was killed in Quang Tri, South Vietnam on July 5, 1968. He was awarded the following medals: National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and a Purple Heart. He was twenty years old when he died.

*36 Edward John Ginter was born on July 30, 1946, the son of Margaret Peggy and Edward Ginter of Greensburg.  He had a sister Theresa and a brother, August. In high school “Gint” was a top notch football player and was a great asset to the team. He graduated from Greensburg Salem High School with the class of 1964.  Ginter was drafted into the Army and served with the 4^th Infantry Division for one year. His tour of duty began on September 22, 1966. His casualty was on February 26, 1967 in Tay Ninh, South Vietnam.

37. Richard Scott Graham served as a corporal in the Marine Corp. He was twenty years old when he was killed on March 2, 1967.  He was born on September 12, 1946 and was from Latrobe.

38. Wayne Stevenson Greer was born in Wilkinsburg on August 7, 1947, son of Homer and Frances Hopkins Greer. He had five sisters: Nancy Startari, Barbara Vuic, Donna Stanley, Linda Kennison, and Diane Greer.  Wayne graduated from Penn Twp. High School with the class of 1965.  Wayne enlisted and served for one year in the Marine Corp. Lance Corporal Greer began his tour of duty on May 23, 1967 and was killed by hostile small arms fire on February 6, 1968. He was twenty years old. LCPL Greer was awarded the following medals: Purple Heart, National Defense Medal and Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal and Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross (Unit Citation), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Country of South Vietnam Medal, and Rifle Marksman Medal. 

     Wayne was a fun loving guy who enjoyed spending time with family and friends.  His hobby was working on cars.  All who knew and loved him misses him. His sister Barb contributed this information and the following quote, “You cannot weep for those who have left more in life that they have taken out.”

39. David Spencer Hackett from Ligonier was born on September 6, 1943. A first Lieutenant in the Marine Corp, he enlisted and served for four years. On April 30, 1967, at the age of twenty-three, he was killed by hostile gunfire.

40. Larry Owen Harden from Belle Vernon was born on January 18, 1950.  He was drafted into the Army and began his tour of duty on August 27, 1970.  He died on January 5, 1971 as a result of a helicopter crash in Pleiku, South Vietnam. He was almost twenty-one years old at his death.                       

#41. David Lee Hemke was born on September 8, 1949, the son of Charles L. and Mary Ellen Williams Hemke. He was one of eight children, the first boy and the second child.  “Davey” was the oldest of three siblings born on September 8^th, one year apart.  He loved cars, friends, music and family. Davey had a good sense of humor and liked to bake cookies especially.  He graduated from Kiski Area High School in 1967. The Raychord Corporation in Apollo employed David before he left for the service. He was drafted into the Army and his tour of duty began on January 4, 1970.  He died on January 31, 1970 in Bien Hoa, South Vietnam, at the age of twenty.

42. Joseph Edward Hetzer Jr. was born in Green Valley, North Versailles, on August 12, 1941, the son of Joseph Edward and Gail McCabe Hetzer. He had one sister, Willadelle.  Joseph graduated from East McKeesport High School with the class of 1960.  He was married to Judith Pendrose and had two small daughters.  Hetzer served as a SP5 in the Army in the 1^st Cav Division, Air Mobile Unit.  He had served for three years when he was killed in a helicopter crash on January 5, 1966, at the age of 24.  Hertzer was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and many other medals.

#43. Fred Dean Highberger Jr. was born on March 15, 1947, the son of Margaret and Fred D. Highberger of Greensburg.  As a youngster he worked as a newspaper carrier for the Tribune- Review. In high school he worked at King Edward’s Market. He graduated from Greensburg Salem High School in 1965.  Fred enjoyed bowling, softball, and playing tennis. Fred also liked to tinker with electronics and attended the Electronics Institute of Pittsburgh.  He worked for RCA and for National Cash Register.  Fred was drafted into the Army and served with the Fourth Infantry Division where he attained the rank of Sergeant. His tour of duty began on January 13, 1969.  His casualty was on October 26, 1969, in Binh Dinh, South Vietnam. He was married to Linda and was twenty-two years old.

#44.  Leslie Ian Hildenbrand was the first Marine of Westmoreland County killed in Vietnam.  Hildenbrand was born in McKeesport on June 28, 1940, the son of Martha and Harry Hildenbrand of Circleville. He had five brothers: Harry D., John W., Robert B., William T. and Charles F.  Leslie graduated from North Hunting High School with the class of 1958 then enlisted in the Marines. He served in the Marine Corp for six years and had been promoted to the rank of corporal shortly before his death. Hildenbrand had served in Vietnam three weeks when he was killed on August 10, 1965 during a mortar attack. He was 25 years old when he died.

45. Howard Scott Hill, born in Keene, N.H. on August 31, 1946, was assigned to serve as a medic with the Fifth Special Forces, Green Beret, in Vietnam on March 28, 1969. Sergeant Hill was serving in Cambodia and died on May 23, 1969 as a result of injuries sustained in an airplane crash. Hill had attended Norwin High School, but graduated from high school in Hopkinton, R.I. where he was captain of his school’s track team and co-captain of the cross-country team. His brother Edward also served with the Special Forces, Green Beret. He had two other brothers, James and Robert and a sister, Eleanor.                   

46. Frank Richard Hiteshue from Penn, was born on January 29, 1950. He enlisted in the Army and began his tour of duty on June 15, 1970. Frank served as a Sp4 in the 1^st Log Command. He was killed on November 14, 1970 in Phu Yen, South Vietnam

#47. Larry Lewis Hohman came from a very small town called Paintertown.  Larry loved to play baseball. He pitched and played left field. Larry played pony league baseball for Penn Twp. and received the “Most Valuable Player” Award. His father coached the team.  Larry loved to swim, hunt, play golf, and cook. When he was with the boy scouts on camping trips, he did all the cooking for the troop.  Even in Vietnam he tried to make the K-rations into a cuisine meal with the different spices and cooking skillet that his mother sent him from home. He graduated from Penn Twp High with the class of 1966. Hohman was working at the Edgar Thompson U. S. Steel Works when he was drafted. He was married to the former Sharon Whitfield. Larry never got to see his son, Larry Jr. who was born in February, two months after he was killed in Vietnam. Sargent Hohman was killed by hostile gunfire on December 6, 1969. He was posthumously awarded numerous medals, the most important being the Silver Star, Bronze Star and two clusters and a Purple Heart for giving up his life so the men in his battalion could life.

He is sadly missed by Sharon, Larry Jr., his mother Betty, and his brothers George Jr. and Allan. His father who was a Navy/Marine Medic in World War II, died in 1996.

Larry’s mother, Betty, contributed this article. She wrote, “He was a very likable person and very courageous.  I am very proud to call him my son.”

48. Michael Stephen Hrutkay served with the 199^th Light Infantry Brigade, U.S. Army, as a Private First Class. His tour of duty began on June 20, 1969. He was killed by hostile small arms fire on November 8, 1969 in Long Khanh, South Vietnam.  Hrutkay was from Greensburg and was twenty years old at his death.

49. AO3 Julius Bradley Hughes, from Irwin, was born on March 15, 1946. He enlisted in the Navy and served for one year. His casualty was on July 29, 1967 in North Vietnam. His name appears on the Wall in Washington D. C. on Panel 24E, Line 28.    

#50.Corporal Dennis Dale Kaiser was born on November 5, 1944 in Latrobe.  At home his nickname was “Muggsy” but in the service his nickname was “Duke.” He enlisted in the Marine Corp and served for four years. He died at the age of 21 on May 9, 1966 in Quang Nam, South Vietnam. He was Roman Catholic by faith. His family described him as a “great brother” and a “great son.”

#52. Thomas Blair Kemerer was born on December 1, 1945 in Mt Pleasant, PA. Tom liked to play baseball, fish, and hunt. He also liked to lift weights and to run. Tom graduated from Hurst High School in 1963. Tom enlisted in the Marines on October 29, 1965 and graduated from basic training at Parris Island on December 22, 1965. At graduation he received the rank of Private First Class, Outstanding Marine, Leather Neck Magazine Dress Blue, Platoon Leader, Boots Awards, and Rifle Expert. Tom went to Camp LeJune and on to Camp Pendalton. He later attained the rank of Lance Corporal.  He left for Vietnam on April 15, 1966. He served with the first Marine Division in DaNang. Tom was killed on the CaDa River in South Vietnam on July 19, 1966. He was 20 years old. Kemerer was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart, Republic of Vietnam Service Award, and National Defense Medal.

53 Szolton Sigmond Klein was born on September 27, 1947 and joined the Armed Forces while in Arnold, PA.  He served in the Army and in one year of service attained the rank of PFC/E3. On July 9, 1967, at the age of nineteen, Szolton Sigmond Klein perished in the service of our country in South Vietnam, Kontum.  You can find Szolton Sigmond Klein honored on the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial on Panel 23E Row 26.

#54.  William Joseph Kolenc was born on February 2, 1948, the son of the late William H. Kolenc and Lillian Kolenc Hodge of Smithton, PA.  Bill was a graduate of South Huntingdon High School and Douglas Business School. Bill was a member of the Hope Memorial Lutheran Church in Smithton. Before entering the service, he worked in the office of Homestead Steel Works near Pittsburgh. He attained the rank of SP4 in the Army’s 1st infantry Division. His tour of duty began on October 4, 1968. He was 21 years old when he was killed on March 7, 1969 in Binh Duong, South Vietnam. His mother, his sister, Karen Lengel and his brother David Kolenc survive Bill.

55. George Michael Labanish was born in New Kensington on April 19, 1948, the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Labanish from Leechburg, R.D. 3.  He was drafted into the army and served with the Company A, 1^st Battalion, 26^th Infantry.  He began his tour of duty on June 24, 1969. On the afternoon of August 23, 1969, George was with his company while on a Reconnaissance in a Force Mission in the vicinity of Lai Khe, Republic of Vietnam. While moving through a heavily vegetated area, the company encountered and engaged an unknown size hostile force.  During the ensuing firefight, Private First Class Labanish was mortally wounded.  Catholic services were held on Aug. 26, 1969. A large portion of the Battalion was in attendance to pay final respects to their fallen comrade. George was awarded a Purple Heart and the Air Medal.

56. PFC Thomas W. Laughlin was the first Blairsville serviceman killed in Vietnam. Thomas was born on March 3, 1948, the son of Sherman and Ruth Nicholson Laughlin. As a youngster, he was active in the New Alexandria Methodist Church Youth Fellowship. He was a member of Boy Scout Troop #4 of Blairsville. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, cross-county skiing, motorcycle and horseback riding. He attended Derry High School where he sang in the chorus and played the part of “The Kid” in their 1966 production of the musical, “Oklahoma.”  Laughlin worked at the Kingston Stone Quarry prior to enlisting in the Marines in 1967. Thomas graduated from Basic Training at Parris Island, South Carolina, on June 30, 1967.  He took training at Geiger Camp Lejeune, N.C., then at Camp Pendleton. From there he was sent to Vietnam where he served as a rifleman in the 2^nd Platoon of Company E.

     His mother had a premonition of his death. She awoke early on the morning of February 5, 1968, feeling weak and sick all over. She picked up a pen and blank envelope and began writing this note: “ Feb. 5, 1968: You may think I am crazy, but I was wakened real early this morning and I have a feeling something has happened to Tom. Don’t ask me what; I don’t know. I woke up weak and sick all over, just like he was calling for me and I couldn’t get to him.” “So, Dear God, please don’t let this be true.” Sadly, it was.  Laughlin died of a gunshot wound on February 5, 1968 from hostile rifle fire while on Operations near Thau Thien, South Vietnam.

     He was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart, and by the Republic of Vietnam, a Military Medal and a Gallantry Cross with Palm.  His father, Sherman Laughlin, was a decorated World War II veteran having served three years in North Africa, Sicily and during the Normandy invasion. 

57. Robert Allan Lhota was born on July 6, 1943, son of Clarence and Margaret Lhota of Monessen. He was a boy scout and played football. He graduated from Monessen High, Class of 61. He was a member of the PA National Guard. He volunteered out of a Colorado Unit of the National Guard.  In four years of service in the Army, he attained the rank of SP4/E4.  He began a tour of duty on July 22, 1968.  On September 21, 1968, at the age of 25, Robert Lhota perished in the service of his country in South Vietnam, Quang Tri. He was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart.

#58.George Arthur Link was born on February 27, 1948, the son of Frank E. and Jean E. Link. He had two brothers Frank Jr. and James, and three sisters, Judy, Sandra, and Kathy.   He joined the Armed Forces while in New Kensington.  George Link graduated from Valley High School. While in school he played football, baseball, pole vaulted for the track team, and was on the swim team.  A memorial award was established for George and is given yearly for an outstanding senior in track and field.  After serving one year in the Marines, he attained the rank of PFC/E2. He began a tour of duty on December 31, 1967. He died in the service of our country less than a month later on January 20, 1968. He was nineteen years old.   He was awarded the following medals:  Purple Heart, National Defense, Republic of Vietnam Service, Rifle Sharpshooter, and Gallantry Cross with Palm Military Merit Medal.

Information contributed by his sister Judy.

59. Earl Wayne Long was born on March 8, 1947, the son of John and Ruth Moore Long.  He was the youngest of four boys His brothers were John, William, and Charles.  His family called him “Butch” but his friend called him “Duke” from the song “Duke of Earl”.  At 6’5” tall, he was a large man. His hobbies were hunting, playing ball and being in the woods with his dog, Fred. His buddies were Jerry Smith, Russ Moore, Joe Hewitt, Philip Fox and Alice Cunningham Fox. He was a 1964 graduate of Hempfield Area High School. He studied the vocational machine trades and was employed after graduation by Precise Metals and Plastics.  Earl gave up a four-year machine deferment and enlisted in the Army so he could be with his cousins and friends. 

In one year of service in the Army he attained the rank of PFC/E3. He began a tour of duty on June 19, 1967.  After his tour of duty in Vietnam he wanted to pursue a career in the masonry industry and buy a blue GTO. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. On August 15, 1967, at the age of 20, Earl Wayne Long perished in the service of our country in Phuoc Long, South Vietnam.

60. Richard Lee Martin from Youngwood, was born on June 8, 1950. He graduated from Hempfield Area H.S. where he was a quarterback for the football team. He joined the Army while in Cleveland, Ohio.  On February 21, 1971, at the age of 20, Richard Martin was killed in the service of our country in Thua Thien, South Vietnam.

61. James Richard McClelland enlisted in the Marine Corps from Irwin. He served in the Marine Corps for 16 years and attained the rank of GSGT/E7. He began his tour of duty on May 9, 1967. He died in service to our country on April 11, 1968. He was married and was 36 years old.

62. Glenn Leon McMaster was born on October 10, 1948 and enlisted in the Armed services from Bolivar.  He served in the Marine Corps for one year, attaining the rank of Private First Class. His tour of duty began on August 15, 1967. His casualty was on December 21, 1967 in Quang Tri, South Vietnam.  He was married and was 19 years old.

#63. George Aurel Milika, Jr., was 21 years old when he died in Vietnam on October 26, 1970. He was due for discharge in March 1971 He left in July 1970 for Vietnam where he was stationed at Firebase Rakkasan with the 101^st Airborne Division of the U.S. Army, E Company in reconnaissance.

     Milika was a graduate of Monessan High School and had worked for J. & L. Steel Co., Pittsburgh before he was drafted into the service.  Milika was born on February 12, 1949, the son of George and Carole Randic Milika of Monessen. In addition to his parents, he was survived by three sisters, Karen, Lori, and Allison and a fiancée, Pat Johns.

64. James Harrison Moore from Latrobe, was born on July 3, 1933 and joined the armed forces while in Latrobe. In eighteen years of service in the Army He attained the rank of SFC/E7.  On March 19, 1969 at the age of 35, James Harrison Moore perished in the service of our country in Quang Nam, South Vietnam.           

65. James Albert Morrison was born on September 25, 1947.  He enlisted in the Army from Irwin and served for one year. Morrison attained the rank of PFC/E3 and began a tour of duty on November 16, 1967.  On January 18, 1968, at the age of twenty, he died in service to our country in South Vietnam, Tay Ninh.       

66.Robert Nadolski was born on September 26, 1945.  He had three sisters and two brothers. “Bobby” attended Laurel Valley High School graduating in 1965.  His hobbies were playing football and baseball.  One time he played football with a broken arm. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing.  His job prior to going into the service was working for Chrysler in the state of Michigan. Robert Nadolski enlisted in the armed services from New Florence. He served one year in the Army and attained the rank of PFC/E3. He began his tour of duty on April 28, 1966. On New Year’s Day, 1967, Robert Nadolski, at the age of 21, perished serving our country in Bien Hoa, South Vietnam.  He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.  His brother Frank wrote, “I was seven years old when our family got the bad news.  We knew he was coming home soon and our family was very excited to see him.  He also had a very big heart and got along with everyone.  I always felt that the family lived for Bobby and when he was killed their lives fell apart.”

Information contributed by Frank Decker, a brother
 

67. Bruce Joseph Nichols of Lower Burrell was born on May 2, 1950. He joined the Army where he attained the rank of SP4/E4 and began a tour of duty on January 8, 1970.  At the age of 20 on       May 21, 1970, Bruce Joseph Nichols gave his life in service to our country.

68. Frank George Oliver II was born on April 21, 1947 and was from New Kensington. Captain Frank George Oliver was a distinguished graduate of the Military Academy at West Point, class of 1969.  He began a tour of duty on May 15, 1972. On September 3, 1972, at the age of twenty-five, Frank George Oliver perished in Tuyen Duc as a result of an air accident. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.

#69.Captain John Patrick Onderko was born on March 17, 1943 to Mr. and Mrs. Andrew

Onderko of Monessen, PA. The 24-year-old captain was a 1960 graduate of Monessen

High School. In 1964, he received a Bachelor of Science Degree from the College of

Business Administration at Pennsylvania State University. While at Penn State, he was a

member of the National Society of Pershing Rifles - Company B Fifth Regiment.

     Upon graduation from Penn State, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant through the ROTC program. He entered the Army Signal Corps in November 1964 and underwent basic training at Fort Gordon, GA. Before going to Vietnam, Capt. Onderko served 22 months as commanding officer of Druex Air Force Base in France. He left for Vietnam on January 2, 1967.

     A Valley Independent newspaper carrier for seven years and an Eagle Scout, Capt.

Onderko was the first Monessen man to lose his life in the Vietnam Conflict. He was initially reported missing in action but later officially listed as dead on February 4, 1968.  He died during heavy fighting in the city of Hue during the 1968 Tet offensive.  For his heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force while serving as an operations officer near Da Nang, Capt. Onderko was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal with “V, device.  On March 14, 1968, Capt. Onderko was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.  On March 29, 1969, an engraved plate memorializing Capt. Onderko was mounted on a plaque in the entrance of Wagner Building at Penn State University. It was placed there to serve as a constant reminder to all ROTC cadets of Capt. Onderko’s devotion to the principles of good citizenship.  On September 24, 1969, the Government of the Republic of Vietnam posthumously awarded to Capt. Onderko the National Order of Vietnam Fifth Class.

     On September 20, 1970, a ceremony was held in Vietnam to commemorate the renaming of a communications site from the “Monkey Mountain Communication Site” to the “Onderko Integrated Communications System Site”. This site was chosen for memorializing because the men of B COMPANY, 36lst Signal Battalion, operated it.

     Besides his parents, one sister, Joan, survives him. She wrote this article.

#70. Larry Dale Palmer was born on November 13, 1949.  His favorite pass time was hunting rabbits, ring-necked pheasants, and squirrels. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle.  His father taught him to box, thus his nickname was Duke for “Put up your dukes.” He boxed briefly in the Golden Gloves lightweight division. Duke worked at Perfection Photo.  He graduated from Hempfield Area High School in 1967.  He was drafted into the Army and served with the 196^th Light Infantry Brigade.  His tour of duty began on September 10, 1969. On February 20, 1970, at the age of 20, Larry Dale Palmer perished in service to our country in Quang Tin, South Vietnam. Linda Presock, his sister, who contributed this information wrote, “He was an all-round great guy, good son, and good brother. Through a pen pal he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior.  This is the most important thing to me, and I will see him some day in heaven with my mother and father.”            

71. Anthony Pasquale Patricca was born on New Year’s Day, 1948. He joined the Armed Forces from Irwin. He served in the Army as a SP4. His tour of duty began on March 3, 1968. At the age of 20, on September 13, 1968, Anthony Patricca perished serving his country in Binh Long, South Vietnam.

72. Joseph A. Petrarca was born on March 22, 1948.  He graduated from Southmoreland High School with the class of 1968.  He was drafted and served as a PFC in the Army, 1^st Cavalry Division, Air Mobile Unit. Petrarca’s tour of duty began on December 10, 1968. He was killed in Ben Hoa, South Vietnam on March 17, 1969 at the age of 20 years old.

73. Pietro Piconi was born on February 3, 1946. He served as a SP4 in the Army, 1^st Cavalry Division, Air Mobile Unit.  Pietro Piconi, at the age of 22, was killed in action on November 26, 1968. 

74. Vincent Piscar Jr. was born on November 29, 1948. He served as a LCPL  in the Marine Corp.  Vincent Piscar, 19 years old, died on July 19, 1968 in Quang Nam, South Vietnam. He was from Greensburg.

75. James Willard Powers Jr., was born on September 29, 1946.     He was drafted and served as a SP4 in the Army.  James Powers died in service to our country on April 29, 1968.  He was married and lived in Loyalhanna at the time he went into the armed services.

#76 Robert Michael Priviech was born March 27, 1945, in the town of Latrobe, Pa. Robert was the son of Michael and Josephine Priviech. In 1959, he moved to live with his sister, Betty Wayda, of Latrobe, PA. Robert was an avid fisherman and enjoyed the sport of wrestling. He worked at the Valley Dairy Store and also was a newspaper carrier for the Latrobe Bulletin. He was a 1963 graduate of Derry Area Senior High School, Derry, PA. Shortly after graduation, he joined the U S Navy.

     He was sent to U.S. Naval Center in Great Lakes, Illinois. Robert was transferred to the U S Naval Air Technical Training Center, Jacksonville, Florida. He was assigned to the Fleet Airborne Electronic Training Unit, United States Atlantic Fleet. He was promoted to Aviation Electrician’s Mate Third Class.

     Robert M. Priviech lost his life, July 19, 1967 as the result of an explosion aboard the disaster stricken USS Forrestal, a US Navy Super Carrier that was sent to the Gulf of Tonka near Vietnam.

     Priviech had three sisters: Betty Wayda, Margaret Evanichko and Mary Lou Uschak. He had one brother, the late Stephen Priviech.

77. Joseph Edward Roble, born March 21, 1947 in Latrobe, was the eldest son of Latrobe native and WWII Army Air Corps Veterans William M. Roble and Anna (nlee Michel) Roble. His loving family included seven siblings: brothers Matthew, Steven, & William and sisters Ann, Toni, Rita & Beth.  He attended Holy Family Catholic Junior High School, and graduated from Greensburg Central High School in 1965. He spent all of his years in Latrobe, and had a paper route while in High School. He later worked for Geary’s Market & Latrobe Steel.

     Joe enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on June 30, 1967. After Basic Training at Parris Island, NC and Infantry Training at Camp LeJeune, NC he was deployed to the Republic of Vietnam arriving in Da Nang December 1, 1967. During his tour with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines, 3rd Marine Di­vision, he served in Phu Bai, KJie Sanh, Hills 861A & 861&558, Camp Carroll, Con Thien, Quang Tn, and Special Landing Force Alpha.

     Lance Corporal Joseph Edward Roble was killed in action on September

16, 1968, at LZ Margo, Quang Tn Province, Republic of Vietnam during a surprise

enemy rocket and mortar attack. He was 21 years old.

     In addition to his Bronze Star with Combat “V”, posthumous, awarded for heroic actions September 15, 1968, the day before he was killed in action. LI Cpl Joseph E. Roble has been awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Citation, National Defense Medal, RVN Ser­vice Medal with 5 Campaign Stars, RVN Cross of Gallantry with Star, RVN Unit Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Civic Action Ribbon and RVN Campaign Ribbon.

     He is now survived by his Mother, Anna “Mickey” Roble, his sisters Ann,

Toni Apryasz, Rita & Beth  Sundararn, and brothers Matt, Steve & Bill along with his many nieces & nephews. Joe is still well remembered by the people in his hometown of Latrobe,

PA where he had numerous friends.

     The men of Echo Company with whom he served will never forget the

humor and warm, ready smile and the positive uplifting attitude of the comrade and

brother they called “REB”.

78. Carl Edward Ryder from Trafford, was born on June 24, 1947.  He served as a LCPL in the Marine Corp. His casualty was on July 21, 1967 in Quang Tin, South Vietnam.  He was 21 years old and was married.

#79. Paul Francis Shogan was born in Worcester, MA on June 9, 1947, the son of Joseph and Arline Shogan. He had a sister Susan and four brothers, Robert, Gary, Charles and Mark.  His family moved to Turtle Creek when his father was discharged from the Army.  In 1959 the family bought a home in North Huntingdon Twp. He attended Saint Edwards elementary School and then Norwin Junior and Senior High Schools. His home was across the road from Kerbers Dairy Farm.  Paul spent all his free time with the Kerber boys helping them with their farm work and just fooling around. His father, who contributed this information, wrote “I can still picture him coming down through the cow pasture all dirty and sometimes covered with hay.  One day his mother sent him and his siblings to the store down the road; they stopped to pet a pony and the pony ate the bread. He was always a good son and never got into any trouble.” Paul always had his heart set on joining the Marines. When he was seventeen he enlisted.  After boot camp he went to the Domincan Republic with the Marine expeditionary force during intervention in the civil war.  When he returned to the states, he was given leave and then was on his way to Vietnam.  He had a premonition that he would never come back. Paul was killed on his 19^th birthday. He was a PFC in the 4^th Marines, 3^rd Marine Division.

80. Delbert Leo Singler Jr. of Irwin was born on March 12, 1947. He joined the Armed Forces from Irwin. He served in the Navy where he attained the rank of QM3.  He perished at the age of twenty-one in service to our country on March 3, 1969.

#81.  Conrad Andrew Sova of Luxor, died on May 27, 1969 after being wounded while leading his squad of 101^st Airborn soldiers on military maneuvers near the DMZ in South Vietnam.  Sergeant Sova, due to be reunited with his wife in Hawaii, died in a field hospital shortly after being critically injured. Sova’s widow, the former Anna Mae Jones, also of Luxor, was to fly that weekend for a reunion with him in Hawaii while he was on rest and recuperation leave.

Sova entered the Army on March 25, 1968 and was assigned duty in Southeast Asia on September 7. A 1961 graduate of Hempfield Area High School, he and his wife had lived in the San Francisco area for some time prior to his induction into the Army.  He was born June 20, 1942 in Greensburg, a son of Stephen E. and Elizabeth Polocosky Sova. Beside his parents, two brothers, Dennis and Virgil, survived him.

82.John Mark Spielman was born on November 2, 1945. He had one sister, Deborah.  John's father was a Lutheran minister and John was very active in the church. He graduated from Hempfield Area High School with the class of 1964.  He worked at Rogers Printing Co., in Irwin while attending Connelly trade school for printing. He enlisted in the Navy from Irwin. He knew he was about to be drafted, so he chose to enlist. On Feb. 26, in Quang Tri, South Vietnam John  Spielman was killed by a ricochet bullet while he was on a riverboat. 

83. John Stanley Staff of Belle Vernon was born on February 12, 1948.  He served in the Navy where he attained the rank of SW3. John Staff, 21 years old, perished serving his country on June 7, 1969 in Kien Tuong, South Vietnam.

84. Donald Eugene Stahl of Southwest, was born on January 25, 1938.  He was a sergeant in the  Marine Corp and had served for ten years. Donald Eugene Stahl died in service to his country on June 27, 1966 at Quang Nam, South Vietnam. He was 28 years old and was married.

85.Robert Earl Stauffer of Greensburg, was born on August 14, 1929. He was a career soldier, having served in the Marine Corp for twenty years.  SGT Stauffer was married and had two children. At the age of 37, Robert Stauffer died in service to our country on June 20, 1967, in Quang Nam, South Vietnam.

86. Deane S. Van Dyke Jr. from Delmont was born on June 16, 1944. He was drafted and served in the Army, 1^st Infantry Division. Van Dyke’s tour of duty began on November 26, 1965. On April 28, 1966, at the age of 21, PFC Dean Van Dyke died in service to our country.

#87.  Robert L. Walker Jr., born on September 23, 1950, was quite an athlete. Bobby played Little League as well as Connie Mack baseball for the local Vandergrift teams. He was a member of the championship team who played in a Little League championship game at Williamsport, PA., and was also a member of the local Connie Mack team who won a Pennsylvania state championship game at Harleysville, PA. He attended Vandergrift Junior High School where he played football and ran for the track team winning four ribbons. Bob went on to play both football and track at Kiski Area High School. He was a punter and wide receiver for the Cavaliers. An accomplished runner and hurdler, we believe Bob still holds Kiski Area High School records in the High and Low hurdles, 440 yard dash, 220 yard dash and was also on the 440 yard relay team which set a school record at that time. He won a first place and second place ribbon in WPIAL as well as ribbons for a second and two fourth place finishes in the state PIAA meets at Penn State University. Undefeated in High and Low hurdle (dual) meets, Bob won 33 medals during PIAA and dual meets during his sophomore, junior and senior years. He scored a total of 508 1/2 points including 200 during the senior year. Bob was the Westmoreland, Indiana, and Butler county Invitational Meet’s champion in both his junior and senior years for which he received two most valuable player awards. He was named All WPIAL in track and field team high and low hurdles in both the junior and senior years and received honorable mention track athlete of the year in WPIAL.

     After graduation from Kiski High, Bob took employment with Allegheny Ludlum Steel at West Leechburg where he was employed for approximately one year before enlisting in the U.S. Army on May 1, 1970. His basic training was conducted at Ft. Dix New Jersey. Upon completion of basic, Bob scored a perfect 500 in the grueling eight-hour army comprehensive training test. His commanding general indicated that one cadet in 20,000 — 25,000 received the perfect score. He received a certificate for his perfect score as well as an award for being his training platoon leader.

     Upon completion of basic training, Bob was ordered to Ft. Ord, California where he received advanced infantry training. He was then assigned to Company (B), 4th Battalion, 21st Infantry, 11th Brigade of the American Division and placed on orders to Vietnam arriving there on September 22, 1970, one day before his 20th birthday.

Bob was killed on January 8, 1971, near Quang Ngai, Vietnam while volunteering on a nighttime rescue mission with a group of his comrades. Another soldier in the group accidentally caught a trip-wire setting off a hidden explosive device. Nine others were also killed in the explosion.

Bob was presented posthumously with the Good Conduct medal, Combat Infantry badge, two Bronze stars with the "V" for valor, the Army Commendation medal and the Purple Heart.

But beyond all his personal accomplishments, to those of us who knew him best, Bobby was just a good kid who cared about his family, his community and other people. He was kind and good-natured, a hard worker with a great personality and an incessant smile. He was one who always stood for whatever was right.

#88. Terry Lee Weller from Ligonier was born on October 11, 1946.  He served for two years in the Army, 1^st Cavalry Division, as a SP4.  Weller’s tour of duty began on August 16, 1965.  He died on January 31, 1966.

89. Edward Eugene Whalen was born on September 28, 1949. From Arnold he joined the Marine Corp where he attained the rank of PFC. Edward Whalen, at the age of 18, died in service to his country on April 22, 1968.

90. Ralph D. Wheeler II from Trafford was born on September 5, 1947. He served in the Navy as a HN for one year. Ralph Wheeler, at the age of 20, perished in service to his country on January 27, 1968.

#91. PFC William Ivan White was born on December 25, 1948 in North Vandergrift. There he attended the First Baptist Church. “Skeety” White graduated from Kiski Area High School with the class of 1966.  PFC White had been in Vietnam only a few days when he was killed in action on October 14 in Quang-Tri province near the Demilitarized Zone. He was only eighteen years old and had been a member of the Corps for a little less than four months.

#92.  William George Wilkins was born on August 28, 1949 in Mt. Pleasant. He was an active member of the Fairview Church of God. Wilkins enjoyed hunting and sports. He graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School with the Class of 1967. His tour of duty began on December 18, 1967.  William George Wilkins died on April 2, 1968 in Quang Tin, South Vietnam at the age eighteen. His name can be found on Panel 47E ---Line 44 of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington D.C.

Information contributed by his mother.

93. Lester Allen Wright from Irwin was born on May 22, 1943. He joined the Navy, served for three years and attained the rank of GMG3. On July 31, 1966, at the age of 23, Lester Allen Wright was killed serving his country in Vietnam.   

#94. Harry Patrick Yingling was born on August 30, 1948, the son of Herbert V. Yingling, Jr., and Eleanor Noon Yingling of Export.  He graduated from Franklin Region High School with the class of 1967. On June 10, 1968, Yingling reported for active duty in the Army. He trained at Fort Jackson, S.C. then Ft. Knox, KY.  On November 15, 1968 Harry Yingling married Becky Hahn of Murrysville. Sgt Yingling’s tour of duty in Vietnam began on November 22, 1968. On July 19, 1969, at the age of twenty, he was killed in action at Bach Ma.  Yingling was posthumously awarded two bronze stars for bravery, the Vietnam Medal for bravery, and two purple hearts. 

95. Larry Eugene Yoder was born on April 30, 1944. He joined the Navy and attained the rank of HM3. On May 2, 1967.

96. +*Robert Milton Young was born on January 17, 1945 in Saltsburg.  A 1963 graduate of Saltsburg High School, Young joined the ROTC at Indiana University of PA in the fall of 1963. He spent four years in the ROTC, graduated in 1967, and served in the Army’s 25^th Infantry Division.  On May 2, 1970, Young’s helicopter crashed in a driving rainstorm en route from South Vietnam to a base camp in Cambodia. Young managed to escape the burning wreckage only to be surrounded and captured by a dozen enemy guerrillas. Of the eight persons on the helicopter, three were captured, one died, and one escaped.  Three of those soldiers still remain unaccounted for.  While in captivity, Young would entertain his fellow prisoners by telling them stories. His friend described Bob as being extremely articulate and having a remarkable ability to recall the most intricate stories, especially science fiction.

     Captain Robert Milton Young died in a prisoner of war Camp in September, 1972, at the age of 25.  His mother, Clayre Roschella, wife, Sharon Young Nelmes and daughter, Heather Young, survive him.

#97. Quentin Dennis Zambano was born on October 14, 1946, in Greensburg. He liked hot cars, surfing and skiing. Zambano graduated from High School in 1964 and attended college for over a year.  He enlisted in the army in January 1966.  Zambano graduated from the U.S. Army Infantry School, Fort Benning, GA and was appointed commissioned officer on January 25, 1967.  2^nd Lt. Quentin Dennis Zambano, Company C. 2^nd Battalion, 5^th Cavalry Division (Airmobile) served in the Republic of Vietnam from August 1967 until October 15, 1967 when he was fatally wounded near the town of Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. He was temporarily assisting the first Battalion, 50^th Mechanized Infantry, as an advisor while the unit was conducting a search of a village.  He was awarded a bronze star for valor, a bronze star, oak leaf cluster, an air medal and a purple heart.  He was 21 years old at the time of his death.  His name is found on Panel 28E, Line 9 on the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C.