It’s been exactly 50 years since I was released from U.S. Army active duty in 1970, but it seems like yesterday. On this Veterans Day 2020, I would like to recognize all American veterans, but especially those with whom I served in Vietnam, including the men of the HHC 159th Engineer Group, 20th Engineer Brigade.

Figure 1 - Staff of HHC 159th Engineer Group, 20th Engineer Brigade, Long Binh, RVN, 1969

Also, I would like to recognize Nat Bates, a Korean War veteran who is the only other veteran on the Richmond City Council.

Figure 2 - Hung up for good 50 years ago

For my story, see “To Vietnam and Back.”

Figure 3 – 1LT Tom Butt at the Phu Cuong Bridge, 1969