Attendees of the Vietnam War 50th Commemoration and the honoring of John O'Neal Rucker Saturday in Linden enjoyed a warm-hearted remembrance and a deepening of national legacy.
The memorial combined two events -- the nation's 50th anniversary of the war's end and the appreciation of Rucker whose name and plaque are part of the Veterans Memorial upon the courthouse lawn -- the last American casualty of that war in 1973.
Speaker after speaker noted the appropriateness of the two events. Veteran upon veteran spoke. Emotion seemed appropriate. The words of keynote speaker Gerald Murray, 14th, Chief Master Sergeant of the USAF, seemed to carefully note the understanding now being reached by veterans and their country. Here are selections from his remarks:
"Most of us here today know that America paid a terrible price for its involvement in the Vietnam War -- nearly 60,000 killed, 150,000 wounded and some 1,600 missing ... Without question Vietnam was a controversial and divisive conflict lasting from 1955 to 1975. Many antiwar movements arose in the United States ... many were united in common cause to resist U.S. involvement. They strongly believed that war in Vietnam was clearly unjust, leading to the United States' decision to withdraw its troops.
"The Vietnam War was the first to be shown on television. Although the U.S. won the battle, television exposed the horrors. At times, it seemed like the U.S. was just killing random people for no reason.
"While the war had many horrific and negative consequences resulting in the loss of far too many lives, on both sides, there were also positive outcomes that emerged. For one, America's sacrifice enabled and encouraged the small countries of that region: Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and even the Philippines to withstand the spread of communism. Another positive outcome was the advancement of civil rights and equality here in the United States.
"And, given the experiences in Vietnam, the veterans who served there built the strongest and best all volunteer force in the world.
"We are not here today to debate the outcomes, we are here to commemorate the half-century anniversary of the longest war in American history, and honor all who served during the 20-year war -- over nine million men and women who served honorably, many heroically.
"Sadly, unlike veterans who served before, they did not come home to ticker-tape parades and glowing receptions. Too many came home to meet with resentful fellow Americans ... a sad state of affairs for our nation.
"Much has been done and said in years since to make up for the ill-treatment and lack of respect. I would attest, much more is to be done. Many more lessons are to be learned, never to be repeated.
"Today the Air and Space Forces Association throughout this year wants to ensure all Americans are aware and respect those who served in Vietnam. We honor all veterans of the Vietnam War, especially those who were held as prisoners of war, listed as missing in action and gave their lives in service and sacrifice.
"Like the airmen of the 119th Gunship Association and others here today, our Vietnam veterans are a national treasure. They served the nation when it called 50 years ago and still serve in communities today."
Murray also spoke of his understanding of John O'Neal Rucker:
"In some ways, my own beginning in the Air Force mirrored his. Just as O'Neal did, I volunteered for the Air Force to be crew chief, ready to serve where sent. His sister Margie remembers John really liked what he was doing on the flight line. I can honestly attest, there are few places more exhilarating than an Air Force flight line, especially during combat operations. Everyday as we did our jobs, the pilots and other aircrew depended upon us to ensure they could take off, carry out their mission and return safely. His brother Frank knew he was proud and so was my family, like so many others.
"Unlike me, however, SSgt. Rucker did not get to realize his dream. I believe , though, that his service and life were not in vain. I'm certain that until his untimely and unfortunate death, O'Neal knew that his mission in life and the Air Force were extremely important. And by testament of so many here today, his family and friends, John O'Neal Rucker's short life and service has had a lasting impact on so many others.
"We also recognize that other families from Cass County suffered the loss of loved ones during the war. Eight of those are listed in the program as Cass County casualties of the Vietnam War."
Steve Howard of Eagle Landing waits in the cold before performing “Taps” for the laying of a wreath at the Cass County Courthouse Veterans Memorial. (Photo by Neil Abeles)
Linden has put its best foot forward in preparation for the ceremony at the Veterans Memorial. Standing with John O’Neal Rucker’s daughter Tia McConnell are, from left, Vance Clark and Gerald Murray, both Air Force chief master sergeants. (Photo by Neil Abeles)
Keynote speaker Gerald Murray, CMSAF #14, USAF Ret. (Photo by Neil Abeles)
With John O’Neal Rucker’s portrait are his family, from left, Roger and Margie Manning of Jefferson, Texas; Marsha and Travis Bradford of Kilgore, Texas; Rose Dulaney of Jefferson; Mae Rucker of Jefferson; Vicki O’Neal of Gladewater, Texas; Patti Rucker of Kilgore; Tia McConnell of Brighton, Colorado; and Vance and Sandy Rucker of Pearland, Texas. (Photo by Neil Abeles)
Veteran Charles Riley of Atlanta seeks out his squadron’s insignia from the Vietnam War as he participates in the 50th anniversary of the war’s conclusion. (Photo by Neil Abeles)
Members of AC-119 Gunship Association attending the 50th Commemoration of the ending of the Vietnam War introduce themselves during the memorial celebration Saturday. Pictured from left, Mark Tarpley, John Santivasci, Jerry Hester, Jim Ray and Tom Brander. (Photo by Neil Abeles)
Sara Butler, liaison for U.S. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas, gives remarks from the senator to the Cass County gathering of the 50th Anniversary Memorial for the ending of the war in Vietnam. (Photo by Neil Abeles)
The audience observes a moment of silence at the conclusion of the Vietnam War 50th Commemoration in the Cass County Courthouse courtroom. (Photo by Neil Abeles)
The Cadet Civil Air Patrol presents the colors for the start of the 50th Vietnam War ending commemoration. Program leaders are, first row from left, Sara Butler, Paul Hendricks and Bernie Skoch. Middle row, John Cootz, Chuck Meador and Steve Schaick. Back row, Mark Tarpley, Terry Thomas and Travis Ransom. (Photo by Neil Abeles)