Remember Our Fallen ComradesThere are currently 46 messages.
Message Number: 46 - Saturday, August 9, 2008 12:30:55 EST
Just stopped in to say hello to all, it's almost that time again Aug 22, 1968. This time 40 years ago my brother Paul got in country on Aug 7, 1968 little did he know that he would be KIA 15 days later at FSB Buell. Well not much more to say only to have a beer for him and the other guys that didn't make it home. Remember some us only have 15 days to go and some us have many more days to go but live each day like it's your last because that day is coming for all of us. Stay well and WELCOME HOME. Tom O'Leary
nbsp; Dear Awb, I miss you. I was an angry at the way thing were in RVN, officers only serving 6 months in the field, while the rest of us were there for a year. I was angry about FS Burt and how they moved the straight legs around the perimeter and left the Mech’s, ( your units) with the clear lanes of fire that we had build. We lost so many in 3/22 inf. as bait, so the NVA body count could be so high. But I read your story about FS Burt and came to realize that it was out of your control. Decisions were made by those not on the ground, and that you and the others officers didn’t agree. So long ago, such a bloody battle, not many remember, in a place long forgotten…. I came to realize how much all the officer’s in the 22nd INF Reg. came to the common soldiers cause. Being so young and a
I am deeply greived to find out that one of my dearest brothers has passed on. Indeed I am in shock at such news as I just spoke with him not long ago and he did not mention any illnesses or anything. I had many talks with Awbrey on the phone and at our gatherings. At a gathering at Curt Chancey's' place, Awbrey and I were talking and he told me that the proudest moment he had in his Army career was sewing on his SGT E6 strips. I was kind of of amazed at this, however, Awbrey never ceased in amazing me with his thoughts and especially his service to others. I wished I had found out sooner about what happened to him. To me, he will always have a place in my heart because I always admired him for the kind of man he was and because of the the kind things he did and his unfailing support of our organizations and people. Awbrey was one of a kind, the kind that you rarely find. I will miss him but I am sure the Lord is taking good care of him and I will pray for that. John R Schlaak, Gunner, 1st Platoon, A Co,3/22, Nov/67-WIA Aug/19/68 Rest in peace, Awb. I know you will pass the Soldier's Final Inspection! The only place we every met was online, but we connected there and you were always gracious and I know from your reputation built by your actions, and spread by your troops, men of honor, courage and integrity -- you were one of the best damn commanders the Army ever had. God Bless you and your family, and console them in their grief at your loss. To the Norris family and my 22nd brothers. May God rest His hand on you in this hour. I just learned today of Awb's passing from Jim Tobin both dear friends although we have not seen each other since Vietnam. We visit regularly via e mail or phone. Awb was to meet me next month in Orlando for lunch. I recieved a note confirming on the 13th of June. He mentioned he had been attending too many funerals lately. How ironic. Awb helped me locate one of my old Batt.CO's LtG Dean Tice (Ret.)many years ago and we have stayed intouch ever since. Awb made me a honerary member of the 22nd I believe and always sent me the news letter. I'll miss Awb-A wonderful,honest,kind,compassionate, and encouraging man. A real commander leading by respect and not demand. Some of the best officers I had were ones who had come up throught the ranks as enlisted men first.Awb cared for his men always. May God rest your Soul and I look forwad to seeing you again in a better place my brother and friend. Ken Blakely 2/12th Inf. 25th Div. Dec 67- Dec 68 We will definitely miss you Awb, a great soldier and friend. He always was one to encourage and give an ear to anyone who wanted to talk. I never met Awb and I never served under him, we weren't even in the same Battalion, but Col. Awb Norris will be missed by me and the many others who he came to help, mentor, assist, offer words of encouragement and help us return to the "world". His friendship and kindness helped me to regain part of what had been missing in my life since my return from Vietnam and the loss of my marriage. He was a friend to me when I needed one and for that....I am eternally grateful Sir Awb~ Respectfully, &nbs
It was our great pleasure to become acquainted with Awb at the 22nd. Reunions beginning in St. Louis at the first one we attended. Awb made newcomers feel like they were special and important. That was one of the things that he did best. Each person was important to him and he let you know that by the way he treated you. Awb was always encouraging each and every one to do their best. With that, he set an example for us to follow and we are grateful for that. We loved his sense of humor and his talent for telling stories. He will be missed. It was a pleasure to know him. Bruce and Sue Gass. |
