LETTERS AND NOTES

FROM

THOSE THAT WEAR THE BRACELETS:

To families, friends, and former prisoners of war....

Thank you for running loveletters. I had forgotten I had sent you something on another MIA  Herman Ludwig Knapp until a person doing a Google search saw my letter in Vol 5 and contacted me. Knapp was erroneously listed as a resident of Rosemont NJ instead of Roselle, NJ When some students in NJ organized a MIA plaque drive (With each town getting a plaque in the name of a MIA for a public ceremony) I was contacted by the Mayor to find out who this guy was as nobody had heard of him. Using his birthday I guessed when he would have graduated if he  had gone to our public high school. Sure enough I found his picture in the 1947 yearbook and his permanent student record card in our files. Last week I was contacted by a person who had worn Knapps bracelet ( I still wear Dugans on Memorial Day) and was curious on any information.  We have a Memorial Plaque in town at our library and we plan to enter Knapps name when we figure out how to do it.  In the meantime his MIA plaque is in the Marine Corps Jr ROTC room at Abraham Clark High School and Dugans is in Roselle Catholic along with the special one we had made last year. That was has his picture  in his flight suit.   A little extra "war story" to share with you. About ten years ago when I was a councilman I got a complaint from a citizen that we were flying a "Black Liberation" flag just below the American flag at town hall and he was very upset. It was the POW/MIA flag. As a teacher I can assure you that to the present generation Vietnam is as far back in history as World War II was to baby boomers like me, and for many of them as significant as the Boxer rebellion which also occurred "back in the day"(a favorite term of theirs). Congratualations on the work you do for no one is truly gone until they are forgotten.  

STAN

So many years have come and gone 
Sometimes, hope is hard to keep
There's some who feel there's none
And in some, it's buried deep. 

The pain, is in not knowing 
How, to put loved ones' to rest 
When there is no way to prove 
They have passed, the final test.

But, no matter what the answers 
We can't let this cause alone 
Until, each and every one of them 
Is found, and brought back home. 

I have worn Captain Thomas Amos's bracelet since receiving it in the early 70's and removed it only about 3 times in my life. Even though I never met him, he was  one of my "family" and a very special part of me and my life. I found out that his remains were returned today. I realized that all of these years I had held out hope of his safe return.

He was never dead in my mind or my heart and I now feel that I must let him go. I am removing his bracelet from my arm but Thomas will be forever in my heart.

Dee Ann McCloud Schmitz
09 September 2002
schmitz@ncn.net

I recently received a POW bracelet with Martin William Prather's name on it. I was walking through the University of Kentucky's campus and heard the R.O.T.C. memorial reading going on. As I inquired of the somber readings, I learned that although I hated the Vietnam War, I seemed to have not been able to grieve for the deaths of our soldiers.

I am soon to be 43 years old and have a chance to better my life as I am furthering my education. Mr. Prather did not have that chance. I have a family with three children who give me great joy. Mr. Prather did not have that chance. I am trying to learn some poignant life lessons of love and relationships. Mr. Prather did not have that chance. 

As I have seen myself as a "lost soul", so to speak, I am grateful for a chance to evolve into a better person as a child of God. I have learned that praying is vital to my life. Because I pray everyday for the living, I have realized that the dead need our prayers, too. Life is eternal and our souls need nurturing in any form. That is why I pray for Martin William Prather's soul. I pray he is being nurtured and loved and cared for by our creator.

I hope this letter does not disturb you or create hurt. I write because we need to relay our mortal hope for eternal life, love and everlasting thanksgiving to all brothers and sisters of our Lord's heavenly kingdom.

Respectfully,

Beth Perros

I wanted to let Merlin's family know that there are other's who wear the bracelet of their loved one, although I am not family I still pray for his safe return. I do this so he can hopefully one day he will finally know peace.

To Merlin's Family, You are not alone in your quest. 

I am An active duty U.S. Marine Stationed aboard MCB Camp Pendleton California. I appreciate the web site's help in this matter. 

Semper Fidelis,

Cpl Cross, Peter J.

To the family of 1st Lt. Daniel Thomas...

I have had Daniels' bracelet since they were first issued...his is dated 7-6-71...I believe he was from Iowa??? I took it off when I visited a replica of THE WALL when visiting with family in Pa.. finding he was MIA/POW status.. Since that time, I have kept the bracelet in my memory box.. For some reason upon awaking this morning, I thought of Daniel, and the bracelet...I retrieved it from the box and got online to find this website.. I would like to hear from any family members. I reside in South Carolina at the present time...I HAVE NEVER FORGOTTEN HIM.. Please feel free to email me at sandrapackmule@yahoo.com  I would love to hear from you.. 

Sandra

I have been looking for family/friends/buddies of Edward A. Willing and James Thomas Egan Jr for 5 years. They are two of 9 men ( either MIA or KIA in Vietnam ) who are now in my daily life and prayers.

I know Jim Egan has one sibling, a sister Joanne. Not knowing her married name, locating her is near impossible ( but I have tried )

If a family member/friend/buddy of either of these men should read this, please email me. I have hundreds of pages of info on both men. I have met many others who care about Edward and/or James. I am in contact with 2 Marines who were serving with Jim when he went MIA. From them I have gained info that is FIRST HAND and from their hearts. They desperately want to talk to Joanne. One of them has saved something for Joanne...... we need to find her. 

I am willing to answer any questions you may have.

Even tho I have hundreds of pages of official and unofficial documents/correspondence ( from The Corps, The Pentagon, Library of Congress, high schools, college ) on these Marines, THEIR TRUE FATE IS STILL NOT KNOWN!

I continue to pray that their remains are found, ID'ed and layed to rest below their markers at Arlington. They and their families deserve that.

"No Marine was ever honored for what they received.
Honor was the reward for what they gave." (Anonymous)

Semper Fi,
Patricia Mielke
Easthampton,MA
Racinyank@aol.com

I wear his  bracelet everyday. It was giving to me back in 1991 and I will not stop wearing it until Ashton comes home. thank you 

Kevin J Toohig N/Y/S firefighter
Averill Park Fire Dept 
member since 9/14/93

I just came across this site and wanted to say thank you for making it available to those of us who had no idea how to find info on our bracelets. I have had my bracelet for Lt. Col. Roy A. Knight, Jr. since the early '70's. I wore it for several years, carried it in my purse for even more years and it is now part of my night lamp next to my bed where I am reminded to add he and his family to my nightly prayers. Until today, I always thought I was praying for a person much younger than I. I was surprised to find he is older. Really surprised to find the info I did. Please pass my thoughts on to his friends and family. Now Major Knight, he is still a hero in my heart, one who personally gave of himself so my country, family and life might be easier. God Bless him.

Sincerely,
Marilee Lynch

Last week I was in contact with a POW/MIA group and they put me in touch with this web site. I finally found out what had happened. I can't even imagine not knowing for that long what had happened. As a parent and a sister it would be very hard to go through. I had a cousin killed in Viet Nam in 1968 it hit the family hard. It was after that time that I got my POW/MIA bracelet. I wish your family all the best. 

God Bless America.

Sincerely, 

Vickie Ward

I have been wearing it for the first time we had POW/MIA in Daytona Beach Fla.
I have on me now I am glad his is back home !!!
So I would like to know if you would like the bracelet for you family.
My e-mail is RPawpawpatch@aol.com

Sincerely 
RED

Hello to Woody's family,
I was looking through my items from when I was in high school and I came across Woody's POW bracelet that I wore when I was in school. I was around 16 or 17 years old and I wore it. I found this site because I wanted to find out what happened to him. I was very sad to see what they said had happened. I guess he was probably around my age, I am 49 now. I read the article about his Buick, back then I was very proud of my first car, a 1968 Camaro. I live in Pennsylvania and my name is Tina.

I was proud to be a part of the POW program and I wish you all happiness and peace in this world. If I get to DC. I will leave it at The Wall. 

Love,
Tina
Tarra4u@aol.com

Hi, my is Rebecca L. Woods and I've been wearing a bracelet for about 12 years now and because of your web site I just found out that he was returned back in the 1995 and I would like to know how to return it to his parents and say 
that he was never forgotten in my heart. I would like the opportunity to return it to his parents. and how to get another one so if you could e-mail me back at woodsfamily21293@AOL.com     

thanks again 

Rebecca L. Woods

Wearing braclet for 17 years now. 

Robin R.Riddle
PetPrinciPals@yahoo.com

I have a bracelet for Capt. Gray Warren. I have read his bio and I don't believe his remains have been returned. If there are family members out there who would like the bracelet please let me know. If I don't hear from anyone I will keep and honor the bracelet.

Mary Ann

WOULD LIKE ANY ADDITIONAL INFO ON ABOVE NAMED (CHARLES EDWARD ROGERS). I AM HIS OLDEST SON , AND HAVE VERY LITTLE INFO ON HIM . WOULD APPRECIATE INFO ON SQUADRONS, BASES, MISSIONS, AND CONTACTS NAMES OF PEOPLE  THAT FLEW WITH OR WORKED WITH HIM. 

Hello my name is Gayla Mallette and I have been trying to get any information I can for my husband and his family. My husband is from a family of 8 all brothers. One of their brothers cant be found. He was in the Vietnam war, he was in the 82nd AirBorn Infantry. His name is Fredrick Paul Mallette D.O.B. 03-17-1953. I have searched everywhere and I can't seem to find anything on him if you know of any way for me to help my husband and his family get some sort of closure please let me know. 

Thank You 
Gayla Mallette
 

--- Gayla Mallette
--- gmallette@earthlink.net

Christie

Semper Fi.. 

Sgt R. Sarra 
1st Marine Division
U S M C 

I am looking for any family members of Jerry Lawrence Moore MIA 16 Feb, 1969 DOB 08-Feb-1950 Home town 
Cleveland N.C. 

Thanks

 Joe 

I have had the Majors red bracelet in my possession since, I believe, the early 80's. I was not able to get one back in the late 60's early 70's at the time of the Vietnam War (when I was in high school). I was very proud to carry the bracelet with me ever since. I currently work at Syracuse University, we had a memorial for the MIA/POW's on campus which inspired me to bring my bracelet to work. I found someone here who directed me to the website. When I found Major Finney's name and found that his remains returned home, a chill run down my back. I never thought I would every find any information. I hope this has brought closure your lives. I will someday travel to DC where I will place the bracelet before the Wall. Please feel free to email me at jfeather@maxwell.syr.edu

Janet 

To the loved ones of:  SGT James M. Rozo of N.Y  and  SFC Daniel R. Phillips of Pa.

 I have their bracelets for many years, I still check to see if anything new has been heard about them. They are still in my thoughts and prayers, as well as all the others who are still not accounted for. For those who still wait for answers God Bless You. 

Their not forgotten and people want answers good or bad, it's the not knowing that is devastating and without it, it can bring no closure.

 Jo'Ann

To the family of MIA Captain Richard G Elzinga:

I still have and wear the POW/MIA bracelet that I purchased in l970.  I still remember and will never forget.
I served 2 tours in Vietnam.  The 1st was at Bien Hoa Air Base, and the second w with the 98th MACV Advisory Team north west of Saigon known as "Rocket Alley".  Both tours ended with me being Med-Evaced for wounds.
Yes, I still have dreams (not nightmares, but close) of my tours. 

We pray that we will never be forgotten, and that someday you will learn the true fate of Richard.

Much Love and Lots of Hope.
Ronn Marcelais

To The Family of Capt. Bernard Conklin:
MIA/KIA 7-29-66

Dear Conklin  Family:

I bought my POW/MIA bracelet in the late 1960's, for a small donation, and I wore it faithfully.  I still have it today, always hoping to be able to meet the family and give it back. I visited the wall in Washington D.C., saw his name and made an imprint and cried for him. I never knew anymore than the town he was from and his name and date of MIA.

It was not until today that I found this web-site and found out that his remains were returned back to the U.S.A. in 1988.  This web-site has helped me to heal and has let me know what happened and I now know that he is at rest.

I had always wondered about Capt. Conklin over the years, and if he was ever found, and generally what happened on the day he was MIA.  

Thank You to the organizers of this web site for sharing this information and allowing us a place to express ourselves.

Shelly C.

Today was a very special day for me. In the mail I received my POW/MIA bracelet that I special ordered because of the name. My Grandfather, who served in World War I was George A Long. He returned safe and unharmed and lived a full and rewarding life. He saw his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

My Dad was George D Long. He was in World War II. He enlisted in the US Army on May 30, 1940. He served his country until December 27, 1944. He participated in most of the major campaigns in the South Pacific, including the Arundet, New Georgia, and Guadelcanal and was a survivor of the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He was the recipient of the Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Medal with stars, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Asiatic Pacific Campaign medal. He also returned home safe and had a full life with his family.

When I saw there was another George Long who was serving his country and has never returned home yet I had to wear his bracelet. I am from the Vietnam era and I never had a brother so I am wearing this with pride and praying everyday that this George Long will come home to his family.

I live within two miles of a Veterans Administration Hospital and at each entrance there is a sign that reads "The price of freedom is visible here." What a price our service people pay to keep us safe. I for one appreciate our people in service and until the day there are no POW's or MIA's every citizen in the United States should wear a bracelet letting people know they will not be happy until everyone is home.

My prayers and thoughts are with George W Long's family. Please come home soon my bracelet brother.

If you would like to contact me, my e-mail is penelopepom@yahoo.com . 

My name is Jeri L Long and I live in Chillicothe,Ohio.

To the family of Cpl Thomas Allen Gopp,

I am wearing your son's bracelet.  I have just found out that his remains were identified last year and I would love to return this bracelet to you so that Thomas may finally rest in peace with his family in heaven.  Please accept this token of remembrance and forever dedication to the Corps. I would like to get in contact with you so that you could have his bracelet. 

Thank you and Semper Fi

Sgt Victoria L Canario
MAGTF Plans Specialist
MAG-36 PSD 36 S-3
III MEF - Okinawa, Japan

Just tonight I came across this sight, and after reviewing it I found out that Joe came back home. I have been wearing his name since I joined the Marines in 1988. Joe has been on my wrist through the Persian Gulf, my wedding, the birth of my son and many countless other events in which I looked down on my arm and felt proud that I knew he was there to share these moments. Words cannot describe how I feel right now, first I am very glad he is home back with 
his family where he belongs , but I also do not want to remove the bracelet because he has been with me for so long. I know I will never forget him, but I will miss him. Semper Fi my brother.

If you are a family member or know of one please contact me at pmsteng@co.chisago.mn.us

I would like to send the bracelet back home to his family.

Sincerely 

Paul M. Stenger

 My brother has been wearing Dain V. Scott's bracelet for many years, His name was Anthony P. Heeney. He recently died and I will take over wearing LCDR Scott's bracelet till he or his remains are brought home.

thank you,
Rita Heeney Scott
8478 US Hwy 50
Lebanon, IL 62254
petyscot@intertek.net

Dear Family , of Maj. Eugene P. Beresik
I want to write you a note.

Well, I did not have the money to get myself a bracelet, but it was always my dream to wear one someday.

I met a very nice man online, he said he will get me one. I was so happy! I think that's the power of love and that shows us that lots of people out there care and try to help!

When I got my bracelet it was the one of Eugene P. Beresik. I was so happy, it was my first bracelet! A big dream! I was so happy that I cried!I am wearing his bracelet, with much thanks, love, honor and pride!

The first thing I did was so search the web....then It was like my heart was broken in two. Cause it said : Killed in Action/Body Not Recovered.  This words hurts so much more now, cause I adopted him, I am wearing his bracelet and he is so much closer to my heart!

He is gone but not forgotten, he is a brave brother of mine!
He did so much for our freedom, and I am so grateful!

Dear family, I want to give you the thanks....for Eugene P. Beresik.
And dear family I want to let you know, that he is in my heart forever and in my prayers!

Please feel free to pm me and email me! 

God bless you . I am sending you all my love and best wishes

Angela

I REMEMBER &  CARE

Remember our missing brothers that still wait to come home and pray for those that are waiting for them! 

BRING THEM HOME 
FIGHT WITH ME TO BRING THEM HOME TOGETHER WE ARE STRONG!
NEVER FORGET OUR BROTHERS! ADOPT A MISSING BROTHER! THANKS ALOT TO EVERYONE THAT REMEMBER AND CARE GOD BLESS YOU

You're in my thoughts each & every day. 

Heather Cook
HeatherJG_65@yahoo.com

To the family of Sam Cordova:

I got his bracelet back in the middle 70's when I was around 15 or 16 yrs old.  I wore the bracelet fondly for many years.  Though I have not worn it in years I have always kept in close to me and never once lost it (and I have moved quite a few times).  I always wondered what happened to Sam and if he ever made it home.  I now know the ending to
his saga.  I grieve for his family and can't even begin to imagine how awful it must have been for them.  I am glad he has finally come home to rest and I hope it brings much peace to his family.  Although I still love looking at the bracelet and it means so much to me I would be more than happy to return it to the family.  If I don't hear back from anyone someday I hope to go to D.C. and I would most definitely take it with me and leave it at the Wall Memorial.  To Sam's family, just let me know if you would like it back.

Rona Duke

And as the children grew so did my work load and family responsibilities, so I put the bracelet away for safe keeping. Though it was not on my wrist, a day never went by that I didn't quietly pray for my special serviceman, that he may return home to his family.

It is 2002, 35 years since I became the faithful owner of that magnificent symbol of hope. I have resurrected the bracelet and began wearing it again, for it provides some comfort during these uncertain times. 
I have recently discovered that the Col.'s remains were identified and returned. Though worn and scratched, I would like to gift this reflective tribute to his family. Please contact me at kabennis@aol.com.

With or without the bracelet, I will always remember Col. Melvin Killian and, he will always be remembered in my prayers. 

May God Bless Him.
Kathleen

This Air Force man was one of a B-29 crew shot down over the Sea of Japan on June 13, 1952. Whether he is alive or dead I do not know although in 1954 a Sgt. in that crew was known to be alive and in a Soviet concentration camp still recovering from his injuries. I have had Danny Pillsbury's name taped to my wristwatch for 22 years and pray for him 
daily.

You may remember in 1980 President Carter pulled out of the 1980 Olympics in Moscow as a protest of the USSR invasion of Afghanistan. At the time there was much whining among US athletes over this action, the sacrifices they made to prepare all in vain etc., etc. We had a newsletter geared to young Catholics at the time and I wrote a piece in it telling the young people what REAL sacrifice was about and related the story of this air crew and another one shot down over the Baltic Sea also in the 1950's. I listed the crewmen of both planes and encouraged the young people to pick out one man and pray for him. When I completed the article I realized I ought to follow my own advice and picked Danny Pillsbury by name and taped his name to my watch. I deliberately did not have a bracelet made. Why? Because scotch tape frays and irritates the wrist and requires replacement, which serves as a practical reminder to pray for him and all MIA's. If by any chance your group knows anything about this man's family they might like to know he is not forgotten. God bless you and your work---WE OWE THESE SERVICEMEN BIG TIME!!!!!!!!!!

Bro. Charles Madden, OFM Conv. 
1600 W Park Ave. 
Libertyville IL 60048-2593 

Re: Capt. Peter J. Russell (8/1/68)

I purchased my POW bracelet when they first came out (I believe sometime in the early 70s).  My bracelet is that of Capt. Peter J. Russell (8/1/68).  I am now 42 years old.  Over the past 30 years or so, I have always wondered about Peter Russell.  

I found this website by accident.  As Veterans Day was yesterday, and now that I have access to the Internet, I thought I would start investigating to see if I could find a website or some information regarding the status of Capt. Peter J. Russell, whether or not his family wanted to be contacted, etc.  I have received conflicting information, although I believe he died of malaria after being captured.

I would really like to have contact with his family to let them know that to this day, he has not been forgotten.  I have always felt a connection to him and I think about him often.  I can only picture in my mind what he looked like.  I would love to see a picture of him and find out what kind of person he was.  Should his family like me to return his bracelet to them, I would be honored to do so.  However, should they not want me to return it, I will continue to keep it and treasure it as I have over the past few decades.  I can be reached at johnsonl@bswllp.com. 

Laurie Johnson

Hello,

I am a gulf war veteran and am married to a former active duty Marine. We love to go to militaria shows and at one of the last ones I found a POW/MIA Vietnam era bracelet in a case and just felt that I had to get it. 

I do not think it is an original one for it does not have the country of origin on it. It does have a hole in it near the bottom and was fairly worn a bit. I have gone to the web site and tried to get a hold of a person from the family who is seeking a bracelet for this soldier. Staff Sergent William Brown, missing 11-3-69.

There are a few other people who also have a bracelet with his name on it but only a few. Is there any way to find his family, or any information about him?? 

I am honored to have him as part of our family but I want to do all I can to perhaps return the bracelet to his family.

If you have any leads, please let me know.

Thank you.
Carol Tracy
Madison WI.

RE: SSGT William T. Brown
US ARMY
Missing 11/3/69 (bracelet says 11/6/69) and other sites list the date as 11/7/69 but  all biographies show the same bio and circumstances of  his disappearance with two other members of the Special  Forces during his second tour.

Today is Veteran's Day, I remember all and  especially one I have never met but will never forget, SSGT William T. 
Brown and his family, whose bracelet I have wore for many many  years. Received the bracelet in 1971 and still look at it many times a  year, but especially today. We will never forget.

Sharon McDowell
:Shalee1357@comcast.net

Dear Family,

 Thirty years ago as my brother served in the Navy, CBs, in Vietnam I wanted to support him and all the other people who were fighting over there. I purchased a POW MIA bracelet and have had it in my possession ever since. That bracelet had David Greiling's name on it with the date of 7/24/68. For all of this time I've wondered about Commander Greiling and it it took me thirty years to get up the courage to investigate what had actually happened to him. With the help of the Internet, this web site and my wife I decided to send this short letter.

 This time of year the bracelet with Commander Greiling's name on it has a tendency to take on greater meaning. I wanted to let his family know that I have this bracelet and I think of Commander Greiling often.

 I was fortunate enough to have my brother come home from Vietnam and I am saddened about the report I read on this website on Commander Greiling. He will always be in my thoughts, he will not be forgotten.

 If any family wishes to contact me please feel free to do so.
 Thank you.

         L.S. 

As a young adult in 1971, I received a bracelet with Capt. Russell's name on it for giving a donation to a POW/MIA organization sponsored by a local radio station. I wore the bracelet for years.

It is now in two pieces and sits on a shelf in my bedroom. Often it makes me think of Capt. Russell. Recently I had a new brass bracelet engraved by a jeweler with the information from the old one. I wear the new bracelet in memory of Capt. Russell on special holidays like the 4th of July, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, etc. I have not forgotten him.
Over the years I have written to POW/MIA organizations to find out the status of Capt. Russell. Today for the first time I used the Internet because of a suggestion in an article in the local newspaper. I found out that he is probably buried in Vietnam. Until today I did not know this. All I knew was that he was MIA. It was an extremely emotional experience for me when I was finally able to see and then to trace his name on the Vietnam wall a year ago.

One day I would like to know what Capt. Peter Russell was like and maybe even see what he looked like. I have not forgotten him and what he did for his country. And I thank you, his family, for the sacrifice you made also. I am sorry that you had to suffer his loss.

My e-mail address is jmme@surfsouth.com

Sincerely,
Jeanne

I cried for 1/2 an hour. For many years I wondered what became of him. I was devastated to find out the outcome but appreciated the ability to put a question to bed after all of these years.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Cuthbert family.

--- Rosemary Mayes

 Nov.11,02

       I was reading the paper on Veterans Day and found a small article "Remembrances carried on wrists". I immediately ran upstairs to my jewelry box and pulled out the broken bracelet I had kept for the past 30 odd years. 
I have pulled this bracelet  out many times wondering what ever happened to Cloden Adkins CIV 2/31/68. I have told my children about the bracelets but they don't understand. They have not lived through war. 

       I went onto the web site and just stared and cried. The questions that had been on my mind all these years had been answered and they were positive. Cloden returned home and lived . I pray he had a good  and happy life. To he 
and his family I am sincerely grateful. 

With great pride and thanks to those who served, 

jenny

Just to inform whomever, I have the bracelet of Maj. Edwin N. Osborne USAF from Raiford Fla. MIA 12/ 29/ 1967 

I have had this bracelet for more than 30 years. 

If the family is interested, please contact me @  RJ396@aol.com 

I have been fortunate enough to get to know a little about Major Larry J. Hanley and his family through a fellow VFW Post member who wears the Major's bracelet. With the approval of his wonderful family, our Post is building a web memorial to Major Hanley on our Post web site http://www.geocities.com/sarge3377. Please come visit us soon and learn more about this decorated and courageous American. WE WILL NEVER FORGET!

Terry B. Burkett
VFW Post 3377
Manchaca, TX

To the family of Charles Cappelli, I had worn his bracelet for years until it broke.  I bought one each for my parents, my children and brother.  I remember watching TV as those men left the planes. I watched as those worn by my family got out of those planes and was so unbelievably happy for the men and their families.  Maj. Cappelli didn't get off any of those planes as I waited.  My two small children couldn't understand why I was crying.  All of these years, I have known in my heart he had died over there, yet  haven't been able to stop wondering. That is until today when I found this site on my MSN Home page.  My heart and prayers go out to his family, as he became part of my family
also.  I would love to know more about him.  That small broken bracelet is one of my most treasured possessions.  Glenda    I can be reached at angeleyesto@webtv.net

SFC Daniel R. Phillips

To Daniel and all his family .

GOD BE WITH YOU EACH AND EVERY DAY.......I think of you often and I pray for all of you, and  I  pray someday Daniel will come home. I still have his bracelet and I'm wearing it still. So please know he is not forgotten.....

K J Reaver

We are approaching the thirty year anniversary of his being shot down over Laos. (11/20/72) I feel guilty that we left him there. 

I am on my third POW/MIA bracelet and think of Donald and the others we left unaccounted for every day. I would like to contact his family in New York and express my support and prayers.

1SG Dennis Mynuk (Ret)
Rt 1, bow 170A
Marlinton, WV  24954

As of today 4 Nov 2002 another long year has passed without the return of Maj Larry J. Hanley. Larry was lost over Laos on this date in 1969. The main reason for this Loveletter is to let the family of Maj. Hanley know that he has not been forgotten. I still wear his bracelet and look forward to the day he returns. As a Viet Nam Vet I will never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice or the overwhelming loss felt by their family members. I pray that someday we will be able to say we have all our troops home. 

May God Bless Larry and his family.

Bill Reesman USAF
Da Nang 70-71

My wife when she was younger found a bracelet Carelessly let for sale at a yard sale. She bought it on the spot and now for 17 years we have been trying to find out about this gentleman. It had never crossed our mind to get rid of it until we found out who this person was. The bracelet has written on it Lt. William Ostermeyer 5/12/72.

We would like to know if there is family would they like to have it. We think that the family should be the one's to keep it if they wish. My wife took care of it for 17 years before now and would like to see it go to a family member. My e-mail is  slim35@swbell.net .  Why anyone would put this important bracelet into a yard sale is beyond me, this is someone who gave his life in serving his country and protecting all of us. I thank him for his service and his love for his country and wish him God's blessing. I would be more then willing to send this to any family that would like to have it and let me know.

Peter Shelton

Dear Sir
I have a MIA bracelet with Major Samuel Toomey's name on it. I wore it for 11 years until I read of his "return". I tried to locate his family to send the bracelet to them but was unable to find 
them. Perhaps if your organization is in touch with the family , you could help me.

Thank you, 
Hulda Dow

 I have the bracelet, of LCDR John G Graf. I would very much, like to tell his family, that I've hoped all these years, They'd find him . God
bless you all, and  John as well. 

Sincerely, Nancy Harrison

Lionel Parra Jr,

I have had your bracelet in my care since the early 70's. I was around 12 or 13.  I always want to contact a family member just to let them know.

Contact me  schwartzfolk@aol.com

Hello, My name is Joanne Sherman and I had a bracelet since 1968 and always wondered and prayed for the name on the bracelet. Today I was surfing the Pow/Mia website and located the name and was able to 
print some history about my missing soldier. While the information says he was  never found, I still continue to think and pray for him. I am sitting here 
holding the bracelet which bears the name: Lt. E. James Broms Jr.; 8-1-68. It is my wish that someone in the family would read this and return my e-mail. Although I know nothing about JamesI have never stopped 
thinking about him. God Bless you! 

My e-mail address is: Paulsherman@comcast.net

Sincerely, Joanne Sherman
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

So, I searched the internet, and finally found out that "my" hero's remains were identified in 1990.

My sincerest condolences to the Dunlap family.

I remember so many of us wearing our bracelets, and checking the newspaper everyday ...hoping to see the name of 
our hero(s), unknown to us personally, but in our hearts and prayers ...for their safe return back to their families!!

So, if the family of W/O William Dunlap, missing as of December 2, 1969 (one day after my 11th Birthday) gets to read this, I want them to know how much I have thought about him, over the years, and wondered how his family endured their loss.

If they would like to contact me, I welcome an email, or they can write to me. I would love to return the bracelet to them, if they so desire.

Sincerely warmest regards,

Kristi Gebel Curtis
4019 Sunrise Heights
St. Louis, MO 63129

You see, I was in a USAF F4 that dropped Fulton recovery gear to a downed USN pilot with a broken leg May 19th or 20th in 1967. Probably one of the lowest moments of my life was when we went back that night and were told by the downed pilot that the North Vietnamese had gotten the gear.

I always wondered what happened to the pilot because I could not remember his name. After reading the information on Lt Patterson in this site, I have no doubt that he was the pilot on the ground and at least the mystery of who he was has been solved for me. My hope is that someday you will be able to determine what happened to him. 

God bless you.

Thank you Chuck and Mary, not only for all the hard work in creating and maintaining the POW Network website, but for putting together A Band of Metal. As you were kind enough to write in the front of my copy "....together, we DO make a difference", I am again inspired to believe we can.

I wear the bracelet of Kenneth L. Stancil, still MIA since 28 December 1965, and will continue to do so for as long as it takes. Many notice I wear a bracelet, but now I know I haven't been vocal enough in helping them understand why.

Back in 1968, I was one of the many naive "smart-kid" high school graduates lucky enough to nail a scholarship to college that brought with it a deferment from the draft. I remember picking on fellow graduates too "dumb" to avoid being sent of to the Nam, but unwilling to put out enough effort to stay in college and work for the "privilege" I had been given.  After a couple of semesters, the continuous beer bust attendances took their toll, I lost my scholarship and 1-S status at the same time. Soon, with a Greetings letter in hand, I too was Viet Nam bound.

It was during Army basic training while learning self discipline through the use of imposed discipline I began to understand the meaning of service. That's also when I obtained my first bracelet bearing WO Stancil's name. I was lucky enough to be one of the many who returned from service in Nam with only emotional scarring from what we had seen, and how we were treated upon return to our beloved country. After a year spent complaining and fighting against those who refused to respect  us I went back in the service with a renewed dedication to serve proudly in the 
USAF.

Those years passed with experiences good and bad alike. Since 9/11 there is a renewed sense of patriotism such has not been seen in my adult years. One can only hope today's "New Patriots" treat those men and women serving our country now, better than back in the turbulent years of Viet Nam.

It was while reading  A Band of Metal everything came home to me that my life has gone on, while the life and fate of Kenneth Stancil and his family remains frozen in 1965. Why have I waited so long to become truly outraged by such an injustice?

My son now takes his turn in proud service in Afghanistan, and I worry someone else may need to wear a bracelet on his behalf someday. It is the love and dedication of those who wrote the many letters in Band of  Metal that awakened years of buried emotion that should have been put to work for better purpose to my brothers and sisters in service.

To those writers.... my heartfelt thank you!

My prayers are with the family of WO Stancil who have lived all these many years waiting for an answer that has yet 
to come.  I will continue to honor the service Kenneth gave to our wonderful country by also continuing to wear the bracelet, but add a solemn promise to try much harder to help others understand its true meaning.

Joe Kilpatrick

I HOLD THE MIA BRACELET FOR CAPTAIN FREDERICK J. SUTTER (12/31/71).

MY SON WAS BORN IN WALTER REED MEMORIAL HOSPITAL IN  1966. I REMEMBER SEEING ALL THOSE YOUNG FACES WHO WERE OUT OF THE  PUBLIC'S EYE. THEY SEEMED TO HAVE THE SADNESS OF THE WORLD ON THEIR SHOULDERS.

AS I GET OLDER THE SADNESS GROWS DEEPER FOR THOSE  THAT SERVED THIS COUNTRY OF OURS! I WILL TREASURE AND HOLD THIS  BRACELET UNTIL CAPTAIN SUTTER COMES HOME!!!! EVEN IF MY EIGHT GRANDSONS  HAVE TO CARRY ON!

I HOPE HIS FAMILY SEES THIS AND FEELS GOOD KNOWING  THAT THERE ARE OTHERS OUT THERE WHO CARE AND STILL KEEP THEIR CAPTAIN'S MEMORY ALIVE!!!! 

Hello My name is Nathan Schott I am lookimg for any info on my Grandfather LTC Richard simpson Schott. I was able to pull his bio, but I am looking for any one who served with or knew him personally. Thank you and God bless.
Sincerely,

Gm3 Nathaniel S. Schott, U.S.C.G.

To the Family of Richard C. Bram

Every day I wear a bracelet bearing Richard's name and date missing.  I am asked about it all of the time and remove it only when necessary.  People still care very much.  About 12 years ago I sent a letter to the American League of Families to forward to you.  I hope you received it.  After reviewing the web site I see I am not the only one wearing Richard's name. I hope no one is left out.  After so many years I don't guess there is a lot Americans can do except ensure they are not forgotten.  Even though you may not hear it often enough, we ARE a grateful nation.   

Gail Marcroft

Sincerely,
Dee Patton
P.O. Box 2051
Pt. Hueneme, Ca. 93041
(805) 984-7697

This letter is being sent to the family of Christopher Grosse, Jr. who has been missing in action in Vietnam since 3/28/1968.  

I often think of how much Christopher is missed by his family especially during the holidays.  I have had his bracelet since early in the Vietnam war shortly after my brother, John Tornabene, was sent to Vietnam in January of 1968.  Our family was lucky to have my brother return though he was severely injured in the war.  Still, we thanked God every day that he came home to us so we could see him and love him each day.

I pray that your family has found some peace over the years with the loss of Christopher.

 Please know that he will always be with you in spirit. Others like myself often think of you and your loss. Christopher gave his life to fight for his country, the noblest cause on earth. He is a true hero.  Peace be with you all.

Sincerely,
Joanne Seidl

I just received a POW bracelet and I already feel so close to SSGT. Price D.  Bunyan Jr. I think about my fiancee, Erik , who is a national guard, and I  just pray! I pray for the soldiers who didn't get the chance to come home, I 
pray for the wives and family who had to deal with their love not coming  home. BUT I have such a hope for all the POW/MIA but I have a feeling of  hope and true belief in the safe return of SSGT. Price D. Bunyan Jr. IF his 
family reads this I would LOVE a response. MY email address is :  
Marialys@militarywives.com

May God bless you all and Let us not forget we are free because they sacrificed the ultimate thing, themselves.

Much love and many thanks,

Jill Thomsen

To the Family of SGM George Brown,

I have a MIA/POW bracelet with George R. Brown's name, missing 28 March 1968, last known location was Laos and would like to return it to your family.  I purchased it in Fort McClellan, Alabama when I was a young soldier and have worn it throughout my years in service.  My Drill Sergeant told me back then to "Wear it until he is found as a reminder of the sacrifices made by brave Americans before you."  Well I recently discovered, through research, that his remains were recovered and identified in December 2001.  Along with many other Americans, I have not and will not forget the price that was paid by so many, so long ago.  I am thankful that your loved one was returned home and will continue to honor him by wearing this bracelet.  If you wish to have it returned, please contact me at
cmmulcahy97@hotmail.com.

Christopher M. Mulcahy
SFC, USA
Senior Drill Sergeant
Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri

My name is Rebecca Woods and I have been wearing T/Sgt Stephen Harris bracelet  on my wrist and in my heart for the last 12 years and when I found out he was home I cried.  Being a military brat and also having a husband in the 
military his memory has always lived strong in my heart and when people ask what is that on your wrist I tell them about Mr. Harris and they think it's cool that I have it and they want one also so they to can remember  the past 
and what they stood for. Sometimes I often wonder what he looked like was he tall or short and what he would be doing to day. If this reaches the family or friends of this wonderful man please e-mail me so I could personally send 
this memory home to his family thank you .  e-mail  (Woodsfamily21293@aol.com)  thanks again for letting your son in my life.

I am trying to locate the family of Capt. James Lyon return his bracelet. If  any of his family sees this email and would like to contact me at NEX  Mayport-rom@nexnet.navy.mil I would like to hear from them.

Thankyou,
Leslie-Davis

All my prayers to you , 
Jean Kashnicki

To the family of Harry W. Brown,
so sorry to see that Harry never came home to you. Going through the loveletters I see that 2 of the 4 men have people replying to there bracelets. It made me feel sad that no one had ever sought out Harrys name. I've had Harrys bracelet like everyone else, since the early 70's. I always wondered about him. Where he was from. Did he have a family? I found his bios today and it made me cry. I am sure you cry everyday. Just wanted to let you know that I still think about SPEC.5 HARRY BROWN 2-12-68. I know he would have been 60 this year.

Debbie, Flint, Michigan
richsgrhs1@aol.com

I would like to contact a family Member of Col William Nelson Lost 7-20-66. (William H Nelson) on your site. His remains have been returned in 1977.

I would like to tell them that for all these years I have kept the POW Bracelet I purchased so man years ago that bears his name. I occasionally would think about it and this man William and wonder..............

I am 43 and in 1966 I was a 7 year old boy. 

William Nelsom is someone I never met but feel somehow connected too. I would like to tell someone from his family that he is in my thoughts and in my life.

I cherish his POW bracelet.

Thanks,
Al Diaz
Spring TX

I just recently started to wear the POW/MIA bracelet of CDR. Peter Mongilardi, Jr. I went to this web site and found that his remains were returned in 1994 and that he is "home again". Words cannot express what I feel inside for the family of CDR. Mongilardi. Please know that I will return this bracelet to the WALL or perhaps a memorial. CDR. Mongilardi will forever be in my heart and prayers, as will his family.

God bless you...

Debi Sherry
debisherry@juno.com

To the family of Richard Darryl Martin:
 
Dear family members:
 
You do not know me, and I honestly have no clue as to who you are. However, together we hold a very special part of each others memories. 
 
Just recently I joined a program that allows you to "adopt" a person who is MIA. It gives you the basic details and information so that you can begin your search. When I choice to join, I was given Mr. Richard Martin as my adoptee.

My promise to you is this; I am unsure if I will find any information. I am unsure what I will turn up. I can only tell you that I hope to find every piece of information that I can in order to bring closure to your lives, no matter how great or small the facts are. I will do everything within my power to help you with this part of your life.

You are in my thoughts constantly as I work on this project.

Sincerely.
Catherine Daniels
Makaha, Oahu; Hawaii

"When you thought I wasn't there to catch you, it was because you never gave me the chance. You never reached the bottom, you've already grabbed a branch."

To the families of LCDR Roger A. Meyers and CWO Dean E. Clinton:

My name is SPC Kenneth D. Hadley III and I am a soldier in the US Army. I just wanted to let you know that for ever since I can remember....I have been wearing the bracelets of these fine soldiers. I was brought up very patriotic and believe in the cause. I hope and pray everyday that they may be found and returned home. I just wanted you to know that someone else still cares about them as well as you do. 

In closing I shall leave this quote... "I pray that our Heavenly Father may asuage the anguish that is yours,....for having laid so costly a sacrifice on the altar of Freedom"   Abraham Lincoln

If you would like to contact me feel free...khadley4@hotmail.com or Kenneth.d.hadley@us.army.mil

    I hope this missive finds you well and happy. I hope that you had a great Christmas and are going to have a wonderful New Year. You have helped me in the past with one request and I'm still waiting on the results of the other request. This time is a little different. 

My husband, Rick, served with 2nd BGE 4th ID LRRPS from 67 to 69. In 68 he lost 2 team-members, Dickie Waine Finley and Luther Anderson Ghahate. He remembers that Dickie had a wife and several children and that Luther was single. Is there any way Rick could get a message to their families? Just to let them know that there is someone that remembers their loved ones and also mourns their loss? He doesn't want to intrude on them just to let them know that someone cares. ......  If you can help, thank you, if not, I understand.

    Thank you and if there is any way I can help I would be glad to try. I admire your work and dedication. We belong to the Chained Eagles of Ohio and our group works with the National Alliance of Families and Roger Hall. God bless and keep you.

                                          Sincerely,
                                            Cille Shaner

 I wonder if you could help me; I am trying to locate the children of Lt. Michael L Bouchard; POW Vietnam; I used the e-mail addresses found on your link, but the letters were returned.

Thank you,

Sincerely
 N C

Is there any info on his family?

Thank you and God bless, 

Terrie Druery

Judy Mance
Dayton Ohio

I still wear your dad's bracelet and am still involved in the POW/MIA issue. I tell everyone who will listen, and even 
those who don't want to, about your dad, the effect his being taken prisoner and not being returned had and still has on you and yours. I talk about all of them and how they are still there, how the families are still being misled and outright lied to, etc.

I think of your father and your family everyday and would love to hear from you and to find out the latest on your 
father.

Take Care and God Bless, 

Hope Anne-Elizabeth (Coates) Garlach
hgar64@junglemate.com

Phyllis B. Roy.....Norcross, GA..

Love, 
Maria

To the family of LCDR Smokey Tolbert. 

I am 46 years old and have had your loved ones bracelet since the early 70's. I remember wearing it for what appeared to be forever when I first got it. All these years I have kept it and run across it from time to time. Tonight as I found it, I decided to search the Internet to check the status of Mr. Tolbert. I am thrilled to find out that his remains were returned to you in 1988. If anyone in your family wishes me to return his bracelet I will be happy to do so upon request. If not, I will continue to keep it as a reminder of what a courageous man Cmdr Tolbert was. I have a daughter who is in the Navy JAG, and is deployed at this time. I know what a great sense of pride it is for her to serve our country, and am very proud of her. God Bless.

 Sincerely,
 Rita Phillips

Sleep peacefully tonight for somewhere in the depths of the ocean my daughter is protecting your freedom.

I have had my POW bracelet for many years and have passed it on to my son. I am ordering another with the name PFC Raymond E Bobe 3-16-69. I read that some evidence was found but no remains recovered. He is not home and I will be wearing his name until he is.

It is sobering to read letter after letter and heartfelt expressions of others who have been so faithful to the memory of these honored souls. What an amazing answer to those who feel that patriotism is dead and that Americans are callous and self absorbed.

Thank you for the time and effort that was necessary to get this site available.

God bless America
Carolyn Johnson 
your friend along the road less traveled

 I have been wearing John's bracelet for 14 years and I continue to wear it. However, if a family member/loved one wishes to have it, I will be more than happy to return it.

Kris A. Solomita
Ksolomita@aol.com

Hanoi Jane Fonda