Cherished Memories

The question is why (look at the pictures)? The answer is simple, I cherish the memories of fallen comrades and those who survived. Check out the backpack, ammo, and weapon; I once carried a home like that on my back. I once protected my life and those of my friends with that little black firestick. Friend, I grew old in 18-months in Vietnam. A part of my heart and soul remains there, to this day. I have no apology for my actions or service in wartime; I simply chose to do the job. The soldiers who served had no part in the fall of the Republic of Vietnam. We were young, we were scared, we were lonely, we were dirty, leech-infested, crying, bleeding, dying and, yes, killing. It was war and that's not a pretty sight, but we remain defiant and PROUD. I refuse to bow my head to the politicians who betrayed us and the Vietnamese people. We have walked the hard road; I CHOOSE to REMEMBER! Those who served deserve that reflection. Those who took the other fork in the road will never understand.