Memorial Day holds a profound significance for my family and me. It’s a time to honor the sacrifices made by countless families who lost loved ones in service to our country. My dad, who served overseas  in India Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand during the Vietnam War as a member of the Air Force as well as at many US bases, is a central figure in my reflections on this solemn day. His dedication, along with the sacrifices of many others, shaped my understanding of duty, honor, and the profound cost of freedom.

Growing up in a military family, I was immersed in a unique culture that spanned continents. My dads overseas tours took us to places like Taiwan, Cambodia, India, and Thailand. Each location enriched my life, fostering a deep appreciation for diverse backgrounds and cultures. Attending international schools, I formed friendships with kids from all over the world.

My father’s service was more than just a duty; it was a way of life that deeply influenced our family. His commitment was shared by many, including friends in both the Army and Air Force, who also endured the loss of sons during the Vietnam War. The collective prayers for the safe return of our loved ones created a bond among military families, a bond strengthened by shared sacrifice and mutual support.

My own six years in the Air Force were filled with lifelong lessons. Throughout my service, I worked alongside outstanding men and women who reinforced my appreciation for the military community. I served after the Vietnam war but the bond for servicemen and their families  was especially close during the late 1960s and early 70s, as we prayed for the safe return of our fathers serving in Vietnam. The losses experienced by military families were shared, creating a network of support and empathy.

One of my lasting memories is of my dad playing his Martin guitar, singing Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard and Hank Williams songs with fellow servicemen. These impromptu jam sessions were more than just musical gatherings; they were moments of solace and unity among the servicemen who participated. The songs still echo in my mind, a testament to the enduring spirit of those who serve. I inherited his Martin  guitar that is older than I am and is my most cherished possession. But it is also  my connection to my dad but also to the servicemen who served with him.

My dad’s 26 years of faithful service are commemorated at Willamette National Cemetery, where he rests among fellow veterans. His legacy, like that of many others, is a reminder of the sacrifices made by military families. This Memorial Day, I honor him and all the servicemen and women who dedicated their lives to protecting our freedoms.

One of the losses was particularly close to my family, was Oscar Aguilar. I have fond memories of the times we spent in India with the Aguilar family where we first met and  the twin brothers, Oscar and Hector. Oscar gave me my first motorcycle ride in India, during which I fell off and banged my head—a painful memory that still makes me wary of motorcycles. While stationed at Vanderburgh Air Force Base, we often visited them in Sacramento. Oscar and Hector were like older brothers to me. I have  fond memories of those visits and how fun it was to be around Oscar and Hector. Although those visits are a distant memory, it’s still profoundly affected me. Being a young man it was hard to understand his loss.

Oscar served in Vietnam and tragically died in a CH-47 helicopter crash on May 10, 1972, in Bien Hoa. The 5 crewmen and all 29 soldiers on board were lost in the crash. His loss was devastating to my mother who was like a son to her and to our entire family. His memory serves as a poignant reminder of the many young men who sacrifice so much. Writing this article brought back the shared grief that military families endure when close friends and comrades are lost in service to our country. I was able to visit the Vietnam memorial a decade ago and sought out Oscars name on the wall. The wall is filled with the many soldiers that sacrificed their lives. But Oscar is on Panel 01W. The virtual wall is online and I provide it here.

It was a solemn moment seeing his name in person on the wall but brought back memories of times we shared with him and the loving and  joyful person that Oscar was to those who knew him. He was a gentle soul whose life was cut far too short. Oscars tribute is below.

https://www.vvmf.org/Wall-of-Faces/382/OSCAR-AGUILAR/

In his memory, we find the true meaning of service and sacrifice. But also for all the men who lost their lives. Their stories, their struggles, and their unwavering commitment inspire us to appreciate the liberties we enjoy and to remember the profound cost at which they were secured. This tribute is dedicated to my dad and to all who served and continue to serve with honor and distinction. But memorial day is for the many service women and men who lost their lives. For their dedicated service,  I salute them for their service to our country in making the ultimate sacrifice. And on this day I remember Oscar. Although he died over fifty years ago his cherished childhood memory is still on my mind during this memorial weekend. I hope with this article I honor his memory, his family and his sacrifice. I miss him.