MY VIRTUAL WALL MEMORIALS I HAVE WROTE by Gregory Payne
MEMORIALS THAT I HAVE WRITTEN FOR THE
VIRTUAL WALL FOR ALL FRIENDS, AND MY OWN
COUSIN WHO WERE KILLED IN VIETNAM.
Robert Arnold MettertCorporalB CO, 1ST BN, 9TH MARINES, 3RD MARDIV United States Marine Corps 14 December 1946 - 07 May 1967 Vancouver, Washington Panel 19E Line 053 |
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The Mettert family and I were long-time friends, we grew up together. I first met the Mettert family in 1956 at MacArthur Elementary School in Vancouver, Wa. There were three brothers and one little sister, Mary Mettert. I went to school with the three brothers, Robert Arnold Mettert being the middle brother, first at MacArthur Elementary School (1956-58), then McLoughlin Junior High School (1961-64), and finally at Hudson's Bay High School (1964-67), all in Vancouver, Wa, where we lived and grew up together.
Robert Arnold Mettert was one of one of the finest young men a person would ever would have wanted to meet. Being well grounded in the Catholic church and coming from an all Marine Corps family, he had a firm foundation for "God and Country". Robert's dad, John Mettert Sr., served as a Marine infantryman for four years in the South Pacific during WWII, including on Guadalcanal. The oldest son, John Mettert Jr., served as a Marine infantryman in the Central Highlands of Vietnam for two tours and came back without a scratch.
CPL Robert A Mettert completed his first tour as a Marine infantryman in Vietnam and lived to come back and talk about it. Following in his family's footsteps he volunteered for a second tour, and was very tragically killed only seven days into his second tour. Younger brother Tom Mettert (my age) also served as a Marine, but was assigned to a radio battalion in DaNang, Vietnam.
Robert Arnold Mettert was an honest, hard working young man, whose loss has changed the face of Vancouver, Wa, forever. His loss was felt deeply by many people. Robert Arnold Mettert was a man of destiny. May he rest in Peace in the golden light of eternal Love from now and forever more!
Your good friend
Greg Payne
700 Veterans Drive, The Dalles, Or 97058
teetee199thlib@excite.com
A Note from The Virtual WallCorporal Mettert served with Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, during his first tour of duty and is remembered on the 1/4 Marines site |
| The point-of-contact for this memorial is a good friend, Gregory Payne 700 Veterans Drive, The Dalles, Or 97058 teetee199thlib@excite.com 23 Jun 2001 |
Jim Schueckler, former CW2, US Army
Ken Davis, Commander, United States Navy (Ret)
Channing Prothro, former CAP Marine
Last updated 05/21/2004
Robert Lester VaughanLance CorporalM CO, 3RD BN, 1ST MARINES, 1ST MARDIV United States Marine Corps 14 March 1949 - 27 December 1967 Ridgefield, Washington Panel 32E Line 083 |
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The database page for Robert Lester Vaughan
I knew ROBERT LESTER VAUGHAN from McLoughlin Junior High School in 1962-63 at Vancouver, Wa. I had him in my home room class, P.E. class, Metal Shop class, Mechanical Drawing class, and General Math class. "Les" led sort of a sad life as an unwanted orphan for whom school was not easy. He was accused of sleeping under cars and staying over at different friend's houses, and was likewise labeled in school as the "Hood" or "Lugi". We had a math teacher, Mr. Lydon, who was especially cruel to Les. He'd hit him in the back of the head, compare him to the number "Zero", and term him a place holder. One day in Mechanical Drawing class he got caught throwing a "Pink Pearl Eraser" into a radio speaker. Or in Metal Shop he was caught making "Plastic Dice". He would spend a lot of time in P.E. climbing the big rope or playing on the trampoline all alone. There was another side to Les that these people didn't see. A noble side, a real defender in the time of need. He saved me one time from being jumped by a kid twice my size in height, weight and athletic ability. Les ran across the street and drove that kid off by just glaring at him. Les then asked me, "Tell me if he ever bothers you again." Now I have the opportunity to come to your defense, Les, that you, Lance Corporal ROBERT LESTER VAUGHAN, died a real man, a real "HERO" and not a "ZERO"! They'll never be able to fill your shoes for you laid down your life for your country, you died a UNITED STATES MARINE!!!!!!! So now rest in Peace, Les, and know that you did yor best for those people who were so cruel to you. Now rest in the golden light of eternal Love... Your friend Visit the 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines |
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 www.VirtualWall.org Back to |
| The point-of-contact for this memorial is his real good friend, Gregory Payne 700 Veterans Drive, The Dalles, Or 97058 teetee199thlib@excite.com 23 Jun 2001 |
With all respect
Jim Schueckler, former CW2, US Army
Ken Davis, Commander, United States Navy (Ret)
Channing Prothro, former CAP Marine
Last updated 05/28/2004
Prentis Barney Boykin, JrPrivate First ClassD CO (ANTITANK), 16TH ARMOR, 173 ABN BDE Army of the United States 08 August 1947 - 04 March 1968 Vancouver, Washington Panel 42E Line 061 |
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The database page for Prentis Barney Boykin, Jr
I grew up with Prentis Barney Boykin, Jr. I first met Prentis at the try out field of the Columbia (Vancouver, WA) Little League in 1962. He was the catcher and I was the pitcher. He had played for the Yankees and was about to be picked for the majors for OK Rubber Tires. I was younger than Prentis, so I had to stay with the minors, going from pitching for the Dodgers to pitching for the Yankees. PRENTIS had another good friend, Dale Anderson, who also played catcher. I also attended McLoughlin Junior High School (1962-63) and Hudson's Bay High School (1964-65) with Prentis. The loss of Prentis Barney Boykin, Jr, was felt all over Vancouver, Washington. Now may he rest in Peace in the golden light of eternal Love, from now and forever more! Your good friend, Visit the |
| The point-of-contact for this memorial is his good friend, Gregory Payne 700 Veterans Drive, The Dalles, Or 97058 teetee199thlib@excite.com 23 Jun 2001 |
With all respect
Jim Schueckler, former CW2, US Army
Ken Davis, Commander, United States Navy (Ret)
Channing Prothro, former CAP Marine
Last updated 05/21/2004
The database page for Robert Paul Degen
The database page for Dell Coleman Odegard
The database page for Daniel Loyd Poff
The database page for Daniel Guy Wessler
The database page for James Earl Bouyer
The database page for Richard Allen Thursby
The database page for William Arthur DeBates
The database page for David Edward Kenney
The database page for Claude Richard Van Andel
With all respect
The database page for William Ross Bond
The database page for David Wallace Baker
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Harley Hubert HallCaptainUnited States Navy 23 December 1937 - 29 February 1980 |
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The database page for Harley Hubert Hall
12 Apr 2006
In Memory of Harvey Hall
You Are Not Forgotten
As a native Vancouverite and Vietnam Veteran who lived in your neighborhood not far from your house in west Vancouver, Washington 98663. I pay tribute to my home town POW/MIA, on the behalf of the The Vietnam Veterans of America for Vancouver, Washington, Chapter 512. We Salute You, Sir!
Gregory Payne
Oregon Veterans Home
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, OR 97058
teetee199thlib@excite.com
MY VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL WALL USA MEMORIALS by Gregory Payne
MEMORIALS THAT I HAVE WRITTEN FOR THE
VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL THE WALL USA
FOR FRIENDS THAT I GREW UP WITH AND
FOR ALL MY "REDCATCHER" FRIENDS WHO DID
NOT RETURN.
CPL - E4 - Marine Corps - Regular G CO, 2ND BN, 4TH MARINES, 3RD MARDIV
Length of service 2 years
Casualty was on May 7, 1967
In QUANG TRI, SOUTH VIETNAM
Hostile, died of wounds, GROUND CASUALTY
MISADVENTURE
Body was recovered
Panel 19E - Line 53 Age: 20 Race: Caucasian Sex: Male Date of Birth Dec 14, 1946 From: VANCOUVER, WA Religion: ROMAN CATHOLIC Marital Status: Single
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Wednesday, June 1, 2005
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Best friend's brother and friend,
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, Or 97058
IN MEMORIE OF ROBERT ARNOLD METTERT
In Memorie of Robert Arnold Mettert, the Mettert family to me was along term friendship that went back to 1956 at MacArthur Elementary School Vancouver, Wa. The Metterts' were an all Marine Corps family. Mr. Mettert (John Senior) served as a Marine on Guadelcannal in WWII, his oldest son John Jr. served as a Marine infantrymen for two tours in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. The second son, Robert Arnold Mettert ("BOB") served one touras a Marine in Vietnam, volentered to go back for a second tour like his brother, but was very tragically killed in his seventh day into his second tour. Youngest brother Tom Mettert also my friend likewise joined the Marine Corps. Bob Mettert was a deeply commited well focused person, a hard worker, and a firm believer in God and Country, because of his Marine Corps family he was very patriotic, that's probably why he laid down his life for his country Bob mettert was probably one of the finest people you'd ever want to meet. His death changed the face of Vancouver, Wa forever. A true man of destiny! Now may he rest from his labors in the golden light of eternal peace and love! your friend Greg Payne
Wednesday, June 06, 2001
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
A Long time friend from 1956
OREGON VETERANS HOME 700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles,, OR 97058 USA
IN MEMORY OF ROBERT ARNOLD METTERT
Sunday, May 30, 2004
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Monday, May 31, 2004
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Robert served with - B COMPANY 1st BATTALION 9th MARINES, 3rd MARINE DIVISION
Tuesday, June 01, 2004
LCPL - E3 - Marine Corps - Regular
Length of service 1 years
His tour began on Oct 17, 1967
Casualty was on Dec 27, 1967
In QUANG TRI, SOUTH VIETNAM
HOSTILE, GROUND CASUALTY
GUN, SMALL ARMS FIRE
Body was recovered
Panel 32E - Line 83 Age: 18 Race: Caucasian Sex: Male Date of Birth Mar 14, 1949 From: RIDGEFIELD, WA Religion: PROTESTANT Marital Status: Single
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Wednesday, June 1, 2005
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Went to the same Junior High School
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, Or 97058 USA
IN MEMORY OF ROBERT LESTER VAUGHN I first met "Less" Vaughn in McLoughlin Junior High School in Vancouver, Wa in 1963. He Was in my P.E. class, General Math class, Metal Shop, General Science, Home Room, He led some sort of a sad life, sort of the unwanted child. In school he was labeled "The Hood", or "Lugi". Teachers would pick on him our Math teacher was eapecially cruel, by hitting him in the back of the head, and comparing him to the number 0, a place holder! I'am afraid there was another side to "Less" that these cruel people didn't see. That was a type of nobility. One time I got attacked by a much larger and more atheletical kid, and it was "Less" Vaughn that ran across the street to my rescue, he drove that big kid off just by looking at him. "You let me know if he bothers you again!" replies "Less". The thing I remember "Less"the most for was in our Metal Shop Class he came bursting in with news that would change the world, "President Kennedy has just been shot!" shouted "Less." Everyone in that shop class dropped their hammers, and stood in awe as the final announcement came in over the intercom. Class dismissed, the President has just been shot!" "Everyone file out of the school in an orderly fashion and go to the Methodest Church across MacArthur Blvd for a short prayer and go home for the day. "Less" witch was actually short for Lester, later on was taken by the Brewester family in Ridgefield, Wa. "Less" was a good kid that would have given the shirt off his back for most anyone, yet they accused him of sleeping under cars? That always bothered me I knew better than that. "Less'" life may have not been the most ideal, but he sure died like the noble HERO that he really was, he died a real man, he died like the brave Marine I knew he always was. All to often people like "Less" go unrecognized. Only now things will change the people who did those cruel things will pay but "Less" will live on forever! and forever!in eternal peace and love. The love you didn't get while here on earth sall now be yours, "Less" Eternal love forever!1
Thursday, June 07, 2001
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Monday, May 31, 2004
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
ROBERT served with the - 3rd BATTALION LANDING TEAM (BLT) 1st MARINES 1st MARINE DIVISION -
Tuesday, June 01, 2004
PFC - E3 - Army - Regular
173rd Airborne Brigade
Length of service 1 years
His tour began on May 5, 1967
Casualty was on Mar 4, 1968
In DARLAC, SOUTH VIETNAM
HOSTILE, GROUND CASUALTY
GUN, SMALL ARMS FIRE
Body was recovered
Panel 42E - Line 61 Age: 20 Race: Caucasian Sex: Male Date of Birth Aug 8, 1947 From: VANCOUVER, WA Religion: METHODIST Marital Status: Single
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Grew up together
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, Or 97058 USA
IN MEMORY OF PRENTIS BARNEY BOYKIN JR I first met Prentis on the little league field try outs, I was the pitcher and he was the catcher at Columbia Little League in Vancouver, Wa, about in 1963. I played pitcher for the Dodgers the first year, and I pitched for the Yankees the second year. Prentis played for both the Yankees one year, and OK Rubber Tires. I also attended the same schools, McLoughlin Junior High School and Hudson's Bay High School both in Vancouver, Wa. Prentis was one of the finest people I've ever met, and his loss was felt through out all of Vancouver, Wa. May he now rest in the golden light of eternal peace and love. Your friend, Prentis, Greg Payne
Thursday, June 07, 2001
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Monday, May 31, 2004
PFC - E3 - Army - Regular
173rd Airborne Brigade
Length of service 0 years
His tour began on Aug 13, 1967
Casualty was on Nov 20, 1967
In KONTUM, SOUTH VIETNAM
Hostile, died while missing, GROUND CASUALTY
GUN, SMALL ARMS FIRE
Body was recovered
Panel 30E - Line 40 Age: 19 Race: Caucasian Sex: Male Date of Birth Dec 13, 1947 From: VANCOUVER, WA Religion: ROMAN CATHOLIC Marital Status: Single ROBERT PAUL DEGEN
teetee199thlib@excite.com
Classmates, in school
700, Veterans Drive, The Dalles, Or., 97058, USA
IN MEMORY, OF ROBERT PAUL DEGEN
Robert Degen, was probably one, of the finest people, a person, could have wanted, to have met. His loss, will always be felt, in Vancouver, Wa.. Now may he, rest in peace, from now and evermore. Greg Payne
Friday, June 08, 2001
SGT - E5 - Army - Selective Service
1st Cav Division (AMBL)
Length of service 1 years
His tour began on Mar 25, 1968
Casualty was on Feb 23, 1969
In BINH DUONG, SOUTH VIETNAM
HOSTILE, GROUND CASUALTY
ARTILLERY, ROCKET, or MORTAR
Body was recovered
Panel 31W - Line 16 Age: 21 Race: Caucasian Sex: Male Date of Birth Sep 8, 1947 From: VANCOUVER, WA Religion: PROTESTANT Marital Status: Single
Friend
Monday, May 30, 2005
Monday, May 30, 2005
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Classmates in school
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, Or 97058 USA
IN MEMORY OF DANIEL LOYD POFF Danny was a good person, his loss will always be felt in Vancouver,WA, may he rest in peace now for all eternity forever more. Amen Greg Payne
Friday, June 08, 2001
CPL - E4 - Army - Regular
101st Airborne Division
Length of service 1 years
His tour began on Jan 27, 1968
Casualty was on Jan 30, 1968
In PHUOC LONG, SOUTH VIETNAM
HOSTILE, GROUND CASUALTY
MISADVENTURE
Body was recovered
Panel 35E - Line 78 Age: 19 Race: Caucasian Sex: Male Date of Birth Jun 15, 1948 From: VANCOUVER, WA Religion: ROMAN CATHOLIC Marital Status: Single
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Went to the same high school
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, Or 97058 USA
IN MEMORY OF DELL COLEMAN ODEGARD I first met "Coley" Odegard In my senior year at Hudson's Bay High School, CWP class, Vancouver, Wa. We used to joke about the CWP teacher he had was a Mr. Kurie, believed to have been or had pro -communist ideas. CWP stood for Contemporary World Problems Any way we used to make jokes about that CWP teacher, and say,"What film is it today Mr. Kurie, Mickey Mouse sees Red China?" Dell probably had one of best sense of humor, straight forward, honest and just alaround a very good person to be with in general his loss to Vancouver, Wa. Was great, and he will always be missed. May he now rest in Peace and Eternal love. your friend, Greg Payne
Thursday, June 07, 2001
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Monday, May 31, 2004
PFC - E2 - Marine Corps - Regular
Length of service 0 years
His tour began on Jan 21, 1969
Casualty was on Mar 19, 1969
In QUANG TRI, SOUTH VIETNAM
HOSTILE, GROUND CASUALTY
OTHER EXPLOSIVE DEVICE
Body was recovered
Panel 29W - Line 86 Age: 19 Race: Caucasian Sex: Male Date of Birth Feb 25, 1950 From: VANCOUVER, WA Religion: PROTESTANT Marital Status: Single
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Wednesday, June 1, 2005
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Went to school together
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, Or 97058 USA
In Memory of DANIEL GUY WESSLER I grew up with Danny Wessler, I first met him at McLoughlin Junior High School, in Vancouver, Wa where I grew up, and grew up with Danny. At McLoughlin Jr. High we ran track together, Danny did Pole vaulting, and some relay races. I did shot put, Danny was a very fine young man, who worked and communicated well with people. Later on I attended Hudson's Bay High School in Vancouver, Wa together. I was one year older than Danny, but in my senior year at Hudson's Bay, he was on the Aquila Yearbook staff together he did the Sports section, where I did the art work and advertising. I graduated before Danny did I also went to Vietnam before he did, but it must not have been by much because I was in Vietnam during the same time frame and year 1969 as he was. To this day when ever I hear that old Irish song, "O' Danny Boy" I think of you Danny, and how their loved one so many centuries ago never came back from their war. Danny Wessler was one of the finest people that you'd ever wanted to meet. "O Danny Boy, I love you so ." your good friend, and commrade in arms Greg Payne
Thursday, June 07, 2001
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Monday, May 31, 2004
United States Marine Corps
SGT - E5 - Marine Corps - Regular
Length of service 1 years
His tour began on Dec 29, 1968
Casualty was on Sep 18, 1970
In QUANG NAM, SOUTH VIETNAM
Hostile, died of wounds, GROUND CASUALTY
MULTIPLE FRAGMENTATION WOUNDS
Body was recovered
Panel 07W - Line 71 Age: 19 Race: Caucasian Sex: Male Date of Birth Mar 16, 1951 From: RIDGEFIELD, WA Religion: PROTESTANT Marital Status: Single
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
Wednesday, June 1, 2005
teetee199lib@yahoo.com
My cousin - (Family)
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, Or 97058
To my Cousin, DAVID WALLACE BAKER
To my cousin, David Wallace Baker, a fine person of strong character, was someone who did not back down from a fight, when he felt what was right in his heart. A defender of the weak, a person with a strong sense of duty to God and country, you answered the clarion call! For these reasons you joined the Marine Corps, the rough and tumble life fit you well. When sent to Vietnam you had done more than just your duty, you laid down your life for your Country. Now my dear cousin, David your struggles are over the fight is done. Even though I write this soliloquy, for once you were a combat soldier, though you may have been scared, you did not run! For you were once a combat soldier, for by God you were a Marine! With these things in mind that you have done your best, now o' David it's time for your eternal rest. As the golden rays of the setting sun light up eternity. Go David, take what you've earned and fought so long and hard to get, your love and peace of eternal life. The golden light of eternal love shall be with you now forever more! I LOVE YOU, DAVID your cousin, Greg Payne
Wednesday, June 06, 2001
United States Marine Corps
JAMES EARL BOUYER | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
PFC - E3 - Army - Selective Service
SSGT - E5 - Army - Selective Service SP4 - E4 - Army - Selective Service PFC - E3 - Army - Selective Service | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
MY VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL WALL FUND MEMORIALS by Gregory Payne
MEMORIALS THAT I HAVE WRITTEN FOR THE VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL FUND FOR ALL MY FRIENDS THAT I GREW UP WITH AND ALL MY "REDCATCHER" FRIENDS WHO DID NOT RETURN. Posted by: Gregory, Payne JAMES EARL BOUYER RICHARD ALLEN THURSBY Posted by: Gregory, Payne WILLIAM ARTHUR DEBATES WILLIAM ARTHUR DeBATES Posted by: Gregory, Payne DAVID EDWARD KENNEY Posted by: Greg Payne CLAUDE RICHARD VAN ANDEL 
ROBERT A METTERT 
IN MEMORY OF ROBERT ARNOLD METTERT Posted for: ROBERT ARNOLD METTERT: 
ROBERT ARNOLD METTERT
Vancouver, Washington
14 December 1946 - 07 May 1967
Corporal E-4
Service number: 2138999
MOS: 0311 Rifleman
Service time 2-3 years
B Co 1st BN 9th Marines 3rd Marine Division
United States Marine Corps
Casuality - Sunday May 7th 1967
Age 20
Body Recovered
Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province, South Vietnam
Death: Hostile, Died of Wounds
Reason- Misadventure - Ground Casuality
Panel 19E Line 053
I first met the Mettert family in 1956 at MacArthur Elementary School in Vancouver, Wa. There were three brothers, and a younger sister Mary Mettert. I attended MacArthur Elementary School, with the Metterts' from 1956 - 1958. Then McLoughlin Junior High School, from 1961 - 1964, and again at Hudson's Bay High School, from 1964 - 1967. "Bob" ROBERT ARNOLD METTERT, was probably one of the finest persons you'ed ever wanted to meet, being well grounded in the Catholic Church, and being brought up under "God and Country." "Bob" ROBERT ARNOLD METTERT, came from an all Marine Corps family, and was very patriotic because of it. His dad, John Mettert Sr. served as a marine infantryman on Guadelcanal in the South Pacific for four years in WWII. The oldest son, John Mettert Jr. served as a marine infantryman for two tours in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, and came back without a scratch. CPL. "Bob" ROBERT ARNOLD METTERT served as a marine infantryman for one tour in Vietnam, and came back to tell about it, but volenteered again and was very tragically killed in the seventh day of his second tour. The youngest brother my age, Tom Mettert, also served as a marine in Vietnam, but was assigned to a radio battalion in DaNang. "Bob" ROBERT ARNOLD METTERT, was a hard working honest person, who had much to offer the world, his loss changed the face of Vancouver, WA forever. Now may he rest in Peace in the golden light of eternal Love! Semper Fi, Marine! Your friend, GREGORY PAYNE e-mail teetee199thlib@excite.com
Email: teetee199thlib@excite.com
Relationship: We grew up together as friends
Friday, April 14, 2006 ROBERT L VAUGHAN IN MEMORY OF ROBERT LESTER VAUGHN Posted for: ROBERT LESTER VAUGHAN: 
I first met "Less" ROBERT LESTER VAUGHN at McLoughlin Junior High School in Vancouver,Wa, in 1963 - 1964. I had "Less" in Home Room, General Science, General Math, P.E. and Metal Shop Class. "Less" was a good hearted kid, a defender of the weak, one who meant well, but seemed to on the same token lead the life of the unwanted child. One who in school was labeled the "Hood", or "Lugi". In Metal Shop Class he was caught making "Plastic Dice." In Mechanecal Drawings he was caught throwing a "Pink Pearl Eraser" into an old fashioned radio speaker. We had a math teacher who was eapecially cruel to "Less" comparing him to the number zero a place holder, and would hit him in the back of the head. In P.E. he would climb the big rope, and use the trampoline by himself. Accused for sleeping under cars, being the unwanted orphan, but I can say this for "Less" he was a true man at alot earlier in life than most people will ever be. He saved me from being jumped one day after school by some kid that was twice my size in ,height,weight, and atheletic ability. "Less" ran across the street after that kid and glared him down, in a way that kid took off running, like a scared jack rabbit. "Less" was taken in by the Brewster family in Ridgefield, Wa. One day in Metal Shop Class on November 22nd 1963, "Less" came bursting through the door, and said, "President Kennedy, has just been shot!" The whole metal Shop Class dropped their tools in awe, sileince fell over the class, as the intercom came on and made this announcement. "May I have your attention please! May I have your attention please! President John F. Kennedy has just been assassinated, school is now dismissed, students are to leave in an orderly fashion to cross MacArthur Blvd. to the Methodest Church for prayer. These were tumulant times, and even harsher times were yet to come, Vietnam! The people who said and did the things they did to ROBERT LESTER VAUGHN, should hang their heads in shame for this man gallently gave his life for his country. L/CPL ROBERT LESTER VAUGHN, died a "HERO," and not a "ZERO," "Less" Vaughn died a man they will never be able to fill his shoes, for L/CPL. ROBERT LESTER VAUGHN died a UNITED STATES MARINE!!!!!!Now "Less" you can rest from those cruel people in the Peace and golden light of eternal LOVE!!!! Semper Fi, Marine!!!! your good friend, GREGORY PAYNE e-mail teetee199thlib@excite.com Posted by: Gregory, Payne
Email: teetee199thlib@excite.com
Relationship: as good friends
Saturday, March 25, 2006 PRENTIS B BOYKIN JR IN MEMORY OF PRENTIS BARNEY BOYKIN JR. Posted for: PRENTIS BARNEY BOYKIN JR: 
I first met PRENTIS BARNEY BOYKIN JR. on the little league tryout field for Columbia Little League, in Vancouver, Wa. in 1961. I was the pitcher and he was the catcher, but being older than I as he was he made the majors from the Yankees to OK Rubber Tires. Where I was on my second year with the minors for pitching for the Dodgers the first year, and pitching for the Yankees the second year. PRENTIS had another good friend Dale Anderson, who was also my catcher. So as good friends we all played Little League together. I attended McLoughlin Junior High School together in 1964, and at Hudson's Bay High School in 1966. PRENTIS BARNEY BOYKIN JR. was one of the finest people you'd ever wanted to have met, his loss was felt all over Vancouver. Now PRENTIS BARNEY BOYKIN JR. can rest in Peace in the golden light of eternal Love. Your friend, GREGORY PAYNE e-mail teetee199thlib@excite.com Posted by: Gregory, Payne
Email: teetee199thlib@excite.com
Relationship: We grew up together
Saturday, March 25, 2006 ROBERT P DEGEN IN MEMORY OF ROBERT PAUL DEGEN Posted for: ROBERT PAUL DEGEN: 
I went to school with Bob Degen, at Hudson's Bay High School Vancouver, Washington in 1964 - 1965. Bob was in the class of 1965, he was two years older than I was, I graduated in 1967. I knew the younger brother Ken Degen, who was also in my class of 1967.
It was hard for Vancouver and Hudson's Bay High School to learn of the loss of Robert Paul Degen to the Vietnam War. Now may he rest in the golden light of eternal love for now and forever more!
Your Friend,
Gregory Payne
teetee199thlib@excite.com Posted by: Gregory Payne
Email: teetee199thlib@excite.com
Relationship: We were high school classmates
Wednesday, January 24, 2007 DANIEL L POFF IN MEMORY OF DANIEL LOYD POFF Posted for: DANIEL LOYD POFF: 
DANIEL LOYD POFF
Vancouver, Washington
Sergeant
Service Number 56933841
MOS 11B40 Infantryman
HQ Co 1st Air Cavalry Division
United States Army
08 September 1947 -23 February 1969
Age 21
Body Recovered
Binh Duong Province, South Vietnam
Hostile, Died
Artillery, Rocket, Mortar - Ground Casuality
Panel 31W Line 016
I pay tribute to a fellow Vancouverite from Vancouver, Washington DANIEL LOYD POFF, his loss was greatly felt in Vancouver,Wa. Now may he rest in Peace in the golden light of eternal Love.
Your friend,
Gregory Payne
Oregon Veterans Home
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles Oregon 97058
teetee199thlib@excite.comPosted by: Gregory, Payne
Email: teetee199thlib@excite.com
Relationship: we were from Vancouver, WA
Thursday, April 13, 2006 DELL C ODEGARD MEMORY OF DELL COLEMAN ODEGARD Posted for: DELL COLEMAN ODEGARD: 
DEL COLEMAN ODEGARD
Vancouver, Washington
Corporal
Service Number 18959387
MOS 11B1P (Parachutist)
B Co 1st BN 327th Inf
101st Airborne Division
United States Army
15 June 1948 - 30 January 1968
Age 19
Phuoc Long Province, South Vietnam
Hostile, Died
Body Recovered
Misadventure - Ground Casuality
Panel 35E - Line 078
I first met "Coley" DELL COLEMAN ODEGARD at Hudson's Bay High School, in Vancouver,Wa in 1966. He had a rather controversial CWP (Contemporary World Problems) teacher that was accused of being a communist, because of some flags and certian beliefs that Mr. Kurie had. The students would all make fun of the teacher and say, "What's the film on today, Mr. Kurie? Mickey Mouse sees Red China?" "Coley" DELL COLEMAN ODEGARD, was a wonderful person with a great sense of humor, he'd keep our classes laughing during very difficult times. The loss OF "Coley" DELL COLEMAN ODEGARD was felt alot in Vancouver, Wa. Sometimes we must remember some of the better moments of our lives. Now may he rest in Peace in the golden light of eternal Love, from now and forevermore. Your friend, Gregory Payne e-mail teetee199thlib@excite.com Posted by: Gregory, Payne
Email: teetee199thlib@excite.com
Relationship: We were high school classmates
Thursday, April 13, 2006 DANIEL G WESSLER IN MEMORY OF DANIEL GUY WESSLER Posted for: DANIEL GUY WESSLER: 
DANIEL GUY WESSLER
Vancouver, Washington
PFC E-3
Service Number 2444422
0311 Rifleman
G Co 2BN 4th Marines 3rd Marine Division
United States Marine Corps
25 February 1950 - 19 March 1969
Age 19
Body Recovered
Quang Tri Province, South Vietnam
Hostile, Died
Other Explosive Device - Ground Casuality
Panel 29W Line 086
I first met DANIEL GUY WESSLER at the track field at McLoughlin Junior High School in Vancouver, Washington. He did events like Pole Vaulting, Broad Jump, 100 Yard Dash High Hurdles, and 50 Yard Dash High Hurdles. Myself I did events like Shot Put, and sometimes the 50 Yard Dash.
I attended a P.E. class and a Mechanical Drawing class with Danny while at McLoughlin Junior High School in Vancouver, Washington from 1962 - 1964. From there I was with Danny at Hudson's Bay High School also in Vancouver, Washington from 1964 - 1967. There I had P.E. again with him, as well as the High School yearbook "The Aquila" with him, where he did the Sports section, while I did the art & photography for the Advertising section with Sharon Dole. He was also on the high school wrestling team, and ran track. From there Danny went into the Marine Corps on the "Buddy System." with another good friend of mine Ronnie Joshua. They went through Marine Corps boot camp, ITR - (Intermediate Infantry Training), and Advanced Infantrty Training, then went to Vietnam together where Danny was killed within two short months. DANIEL GUY WESSLER was probably one of the finest people that you'ed ever want to meet. Ever since that day an old Irish song comes to mind "DANNY BOY." about their loved one that went off to war so many centuries ago, and never returned. - "So oh, Danny Boy - I love - You - so-----!" The loss of Daniel Guy Wessler was felt for many years through out Vancouver, Washington, and will be felt for many years yet to come. So now may he rest in peace in the Golden Light of Eternal Love, from now and for evermore. Amen.
Your Friend,
Gregory Payne
Oregon Veterans Home
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, OR 9705
teetee199thlib@excite.comPosted by: Gregory Payne
Email: teetee199thlib@excite.com
Relationship: We were Jr. High & High School
Thursday, April 13, 2006 DAVID W BAKER IN MEMORY OF DAVID WALLACE BAKER Posted for: DAVID WALLACE BAKER: 
DAVID WALLACE BAKER> Ridgefield, Washington>
Sergeant
(Service Number 531482930>MOS 0351 Assaultman>
16 March 1951 - 18 September 1970
Quang Nam Province, South Vietnam>Death Hostile, Died of Wounds>Multiple Fragmentation Wounds - Ground Casuality
Panel 07W Line 071
To My cousin,DAVID WALLACE BAKER,to a strong willed person, who did not back down from a fight. Who stood for the truth of which you believed in your heart to be right at the time! A defender of the weak, with a strong background in God and Country.
For these reasons you joined the Marine Corps, the rough and tumble life fit you well. You answered the clarion call, and when sent to Vietnam you did more than just your duty O' David, you laid down your life for your Country!
Even though I write this soliloquay, for once you were a combat soldier, though you were scared you did not run, for once you were a combat soldier, for by God you were a Marine! So go O' David, go and take hold of your eternal life that you have fought so long and hard to get. For as the golden rays of the setting sun light up all of Eternity! The streets and the Gate of Heaven shall be guarded by UNITED STATES MARINES! So go now O' David, to rest in Peace in the golden light of Eternal Love that shall be with you from now and Forevermore!
I LOVE YOU, DAVID!
Your Cousin, Gregory Payne
Vietnam Veteran (Infantry)
4th May 2001
Gregory Payne
OREGON VETERANS HOME
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, Oregon 97058
teetee199thlib@excite.com Posted by: Gregory Payne
Email: teetee199thlib@excite.com
Relationship: David, was my Cousin
Thursday, April 13, 2006 JAMES E BOUYER JAMES EARL BOUYER 28W, 101
is honored on Panel 28W, Row 101 of
the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
JAMES EARL BOUYER
Prattville, Alabama
Private First Class
(Service Number)67112358
D Co 4th BN 12th INF
199th Light Infantry Brigade
United States Army
11B10 Infantryman
11 January 1948 - 01 April 1969
My Yen, Gia Dinh Province South Vietnam
Panel 28W Line 101
PFC JAMES EARL BOUYER was one of the first people that I met when I joined D Company 4th Battalion 12th Infantry 199th Light Infantry Brigade in Vietnam. James was our Platoon RTO (Radio, Telephone, Opperator) so he humpped the PRC25 Infantry Radio. I remember following behind him walking up some narrow muddy winding jungle path. Also because I was the new guy he made me trade weapons. "Here I'am swapping you my M-79 Grenade Launcher for your M-16 Rifle." James replied. I'll be darned if I'll get caught in a firefight with some old single shot thing!" he replied. Well as time went by, we got caught in a Viet Cong mortar attack on our permiter that adjoined a canal. James just happened to be crossing that canal in a sanpan (bamboo boat)with my M-16 Rifle when an incoming Communist 82mm mortar round landed not far from Jame's sanpan, it detonated in the water and capsized the little boat. Leaving James unharmed,but having to swim for it. He made it to the shore alright but my M-16 Rifle went to the bottom of the canal.
A few days later the tide went out leaving that canal high and dry. My M-16 Rifle was laying right on the top of a big thick mud bank. The C.O. was not at all happy about the situation, and made James go back out there and fish that M-16 Rifle out of the mud. Well James started wading out there to go get it. he had barely reached out and grabbed the muzzle, when he started to sinking up to his waiste in mud and crying for Help! So we came to his rescue and pulled him out of the mud with a rope.
Shortly afterwards PFC JAMES EARL BOUYER was killed in a grenade accident that took him and Sgt. Richard Allen Thursby and William Arthur DeBates all from 3rd Squad (my Squad). James was a good hearted guy with a great sense of humor and his lose was felt through out our Company. May he now rest in peace in the golden light of Eternity from now and forevermore! Amen.
Your Comrade in arms,
SP/4 Gregory Payne
OREGON VETERANS HOME
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, OR 97058
teetee199thlib@excite.com Posted by: Gregory Payne
Email: teetee199thlib@excite.com
Relationship: We served together
Thursday, April 13, 2006 RICHARD A THURSBY RICHARD ALLEN THURSBY 28W, 106
is honored on Panel 28W, Row 106 of
the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Full Name: RICHARD ALLEN THURSBY Wall Name: RICHARD A THURSBY Date of Birth: 4/6/1946 Date of Casualty: 4/1/1969 Home of Record: BISBEE State: AZ Branch of Service: ARMY Rank: SSGT Casualty Country: SOUTH VIETNAM Casualty Province: 
RICHARD ALLEN THURSBY
Bisbee, Arizona
06 April 1948 - 01 April 1969
SGT E-5,(Promoted to SSG E-6 after death)
Service Number 56911405
11B40 Infantryman (SGT E-5 Squad Leader/SSG E-6 Platoon Sergeant
D Co 4th BN 12th Inf 199th Light Infantry Brigade
United States Army
Service Time 1-2 years
Age 23
Body Recovered
My Yen, Gia Dinh Province, South Vietnam
None-Hostile, Died Of Other Causes
Other Causes - Ground casuality
Panel 28W Line 106
RICHARD ALLEN THURSBSY (SGT) was my squad leader in Vietnam, he lead, A - (Alpha) Fireteam, 3rd Squad, 1st Platoon, D Company 4th Battalion 12th Infantry 199th Light Infantry Brigade. In places like Binh Chanh, and My Yen of Gia Dinh province, Vietnam. RICHARD ALLEN THURSBY was a good Squad Leader, a very informable man. He taught us how you could see an incoming mortar round by hitting the ground on the first sound of the tubes going off, you then rolled over and looking up, and for a split second at the arching point of the round, you could see it just before it's descent back down. It would appear as a black dot in the sky, by then it could give you an idea of just where that mortar round was going to fall. He taught us how to walk in the mud that most people would never have drempt of seeing. "Don't get your legs straight together, 'cause it will form a vaccumn around them and you'll never get yourself out, it works almost like quick sand for then, the more you move the deeper your going to go." he'd reply. "Youv'e got to walk with your legs flexed at the knees, keeping your legs appart." he'd tell us. "Or the mud is gonna suck the boots right off your feet." he'd reply. He even showed us a special way of tying our boots to prevent this from happening. You had to wrap the boot lace twice around the top of the jungle boot, and tie what was left of the lace in a square knot to secure the boots from coming off in the mud. He was quick thinking in most cases in an emergecy type situation. One time he stepped flat footed on a trip wire to a booby trap on a rice paddie dyke. When he relized what he had done he froze and said. "Get off the trail, and get down! I'am on a trip wire, and I'am not going to stay here forever. I hope this can of M-60 machinegun ammo with the canvas strap will be heavy enough to hold it down or other wise I'am apt to go "BOOM!" he replied. His idea worked 'cause he lowered the can of 60 ammo off his shoulder by it's canvas strap and set it down on the exposed trip wire, and slowly lifted his foot straight up, and the weight of the can was just enough to hold the trip wire down. Until we could blow the booby trap in place by tying a ball of string on to the canvas strap of the can, unraveling the ball of string getting down behind the rice paddy dyke, and pulling the can off the dyke by the string and the booby trap went off. SGT. THURSBY also taught us how to walk into the wind of the Hewey Choppers without getting knocked down by the wind. He was a good Squad leader and a good man. This information is for the family and friends of SGT. RICHARD ALLEN THURSBY, I was an eye witness to RICHRARD'S death, PFC JAMES EARL BOUYER, and SP/4 WILLIAM ARTHUR DEBATES were the two other people that died, but not all together like the Army said they did. I found RICHARD'S watch the following morning on a clean up detail. His watch stopped at 8:45 P.M. 31 March 1969. SGT RICHARD ALLEN THURSBY, and PFC JAMES EARL BOUYER, died that night and SP/4 WILLIAM ARTHUR DEBATES died the following morning on the 1st of April 1969 around 10:00 A.M. They also were not in the bunker like the Army said they were all three of them were on the outside of the bunker. I've wanted to tell this now for years and have never had the chance to say it now I hope it's not to late. RICHARD ALLEN THURSBY was a good man and his loss will be felt deeply to all those who ever had the pleaure to know him. Now may he rest in Peace in the golden light of eternal Love. Your Commrade in Arms, SP/4 Gregory Payne D 4/12 199th L.I.B. e-mail address teetee199thlib@excite.com
Gregory Payne
Oregon Veterans Home
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, OR 97058
teetee199thlib@excite.com
Email: teetee199thlib@excite.com
Relationship: My Squad leader in Vietnam
Friday, April 14, 2006
WILLIAM A DEBATES WILLIAM ARTHUR DEBATES 28W, 102
is honored on Panel 28W, Row 102 of
the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Full Name: WILLIAM ARTHUR DEBATES Wall Name: WILLIAM A DEBATES Date of Birth: 9/1/1948 Date of Casualty: 4/1/1969 Home of Record: PEORIA State: IL Branch of Service: ARMY Rank: SP4 Casualty Country: SOUTH VIETNAM Casualty Province: 
Peoria, Illinois
Specialist Four E-4
Service Number 54828253
MOS 11B40 Infantryman
D Co 4th BN 12th Inf 199th Light Infantry Brigade
01 September 1948 -01 April 1969
Age 20
Body Recovered
My Yen, Gia Dinh Province, South Vietnam
None-hostile, Died of Other Causes
Other Accident - Ground Casuality
Panel 28W Line 102
I first met SP/4 WILLIAM ARTHUR DeBATES, on my enterance into 3rd Squad, 1st Platoon, D company 4th Battalion 12th Infantry 199th Light Infantry Brigade in Vietnam. He was a good person, with a good sense of humor. Unfortunately, WILLIAM was inocently involved in a grenade accident that took the lives of two other people, SGT RICHARD ALLEN THURSBY, and PFC JAMES EARL BOUYER all perished together. SP/4 WILLIAM ARTHUR DeBATES' loss was felt through out the entire Company, as well as friends and family. Now may he rest in Peace in the golden light of eternal Love. Your Commrade in Arms, SP/4 Greg Payne 3rd Squad, 1st Platoon, D Company 4th Battalion 12th Infantry 199th Light Infantry Brigade. E-mail teetee199thlib@excite.com
Email: teetee199thlib@excite.com
Relationship: In the same Squad in Vietnam
Thursday, April 13, 2006
DAVID E KENNEY DAVID EDWARD KENNEY 22W, 20
is honored on Panel 22W, Row 20 of
the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.Full Name: DAVID EDWARD KENNEY Wall Name: DAVID E KENNEY Date of Birth: 7/2/1947 Date of Casualty: 6/11/1969 Home of Record: WOBURN State: MA Branch of Service: ARMY Rank: PFC Casualty Country: SOUTH VIETNAM Casualty Province: Posted for: DAVID EDWARD KENNEY: 
I came into D 4/12 199th LIB and served with David and Claude VanAndel and now I'am the only one left out of the three alive.
your commrade in arms
SP/4 Greg Payne
OREGON VETERANS' HOME
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, Oregon 97058
Email: teetee199thlib@usa.com
Relationship: We served together
Wednesday, November 12, 2008 CLAUDE R VAN ANDEL CLAUDE RICHARD VAN ANDEL 23W, 4
is honored on Panel 23W, Row 4 of
the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.Full Name: CLAUDE RICHARD VAN ANDEL Wall Name: CLAUDE R VAN ANDEL Date of Birth: 10/3/1949 Date of Casualty: 5/27/1969 Home of Record: NORFOLK State: NE Branch of Service: ARMY Rank: SGT Casualty Country: SOUTH VIETNAM Casualty Province: BIEN HOA Posted for: CLAUDE RICHARD VAN ANDEL: 
I came into and served with D 4/12 199th L.I.B. in February of 1969 with PFC David Edward Keeney and now I'am the only one left alive out of the three.
Your commrade in arms
Greg Payne
OREGON VETERANS; HOME
The Dalles, Oregon 97058 Posted by: Greg Payne
Email: teetee199thlib@usa.com
Relationship: We served together
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
