Reunion

[DMZ-LT]

A couple of years ago I found the web site for the unit I was with in Viet Nam , 3/5 Cav. This Thurs I am headed to DC for my first ever reunion with 3/5 Cav. or as they call us BIA , Brothers In Arms. I have been in computer contact with two guys who were in my platoon Doc Lehman , my medic , and Bobby Rodriquez , a machinegunner. Bobby said he wants to give me a big hug so I am hoping he thinks I did good as their LT. Now the tough part. Saturday morning we are all meeting at the Wall so ALL the brothers are together in honor and peace. I am scared I am going to embarrass myself since I have twice tried to go up to the Wall and both times never made it cause I just emotionally can't make it. I end up a sobbing mass on the ground.Hopefully the third time will be a charm and if I ever make it to the Wall it will be with these guys. I know someone will grab my ruck if I fall and tell me to keep movin. Arrow told me to bring a picture of my grandson , Johnny , with me to lay by the Wall to show the guys inside and I am.Going to tell them about this family too. Got a lot of guys to look up , wish me luck Saturday

[Keith_Hixson]

John,
I'll keep you my prayers. You'll make it.

Keith

[Bill Farnie]

Homie,
With the help of the guys of your old unit, you'll be O.K. Together then .... Together now .... your brothers will give you strength .... my brothers did for me in 2002

[Jerry D]

What Bill Said LT , luck and prayers for you all Saturday

[catman]

John...will say a special prayer for you and yours on that day. You done good brother, Godspeed!

Trav

[b3196]

John
The wife and I went last November with the same feelings...When we walked down that path leading to the wall,
my wife said "Oh my God". Ya I lost it....but it felt like a heavy load was lifted off my shoulders. I took a picture of my good friend Domenic Cacciola and I standing together back in 1966
which I placed under his panel. During That week in Washington
I went back to the wall every day. On the last day there I said goodby to everyone, said a silent prayer and left. John, dont hold back your feelings. Your buddies will be there for you like you were there for them many years ago.
Good luck have a safe trip, and a prayer will be enroute to you this Saturday
Welcome home Bro
Bob K

[Packo]

Have fun John! Fun is what it's all about! Since you've not been to the Wall.....please go. I don't like the little chain link rope thing they added near the walkway to keep you off the grass.....but enjoy the grass anyway if you feel confined by the damned thing...don't think anyone will bother you.

Be Safe!

Pack

[formergrunt70]

Enjoy Yourself LT. As far as the wall goes. Don't have an answer. No matter how strong I think I Am, I always get weak at the knees followed by the steady stream of tears. don't think it will ever be any different. I watched a news clip on Memorial Day in Memphis when the escort delivered the flag draped coffin of this young Sergeant killed in Iraq. Left behind a lovely wife and 2 Children. So yeah let the tears flow "Brother" I know You will be over joyed to finally meet Your Comrades. I thought i would pass out when I met Danny after 33 years. What a great moment! Danny- I love You "Brother" Lt. You will do fine. "Hang tight "Brother"
Topp

[Andy]

I wish you all the best and hope it does something good. I know lots of people who thing it's the most wonderful thing in the world and hope you feel that way to. Of course, I size does not fit all.

The traveling wall came to my town a few years ago. Matter of fact Doc Fred, Paco and their ladies were here. It was too much for me, didn't get anything good out of it. It's probably different if you go with people you served with. Anyway, hope the real deal is a good thing for you and let us know.

Stay healthy, safe trip,
Andy
PS: Just giving you a heads up in case you don't feel great after being there, you would not be the only one.

[frisco-kid]

I'll be thinking good thoughts of you during your reunion. As far as The Wall, I am of the same opinion as Bill and Bob; you're going to be with guys willing and capable of helping you carry your ruck if needed. I can't guess how this is going to go for you. It's different for each of us, I'm sure. I have only been to the Moving Wall, but it went better than I thought it would. And I was alone. I wrote a little about it on THE WALL thread, along with some pictures [look on pages 18/19]. I felt better for doing it. I hope you walk away with the same feeling, my friend.