Working on my fathers story

I just seem to be more amazed as I check into my dads military story. I was searching thru all his records and found out he had 10 USAF Air Medals and also Distinguished Flying Cross awarded to him as he served as FAC in Vietnam. I am so thankful for this site as he never talked about it-BUT I feel it is important to document all of this. Thanks again.

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Permalink Reply by Claudia Bartow on March 30, 2012 at 5:44pm
Teresa, so happy you are researching your father's information. I know how that is to have a loved one who served pass away- before you learn all of their history and stories.

My new guide I am finishing will be a tool for veterans ( and their families) to compile these things, so that families have no doubt about the veteran's story.

Looking forward to seeing your dad's information!
Permalink Reply by Thomas R. Murrell on April 13, 2012 at 12:29pm

I look forward to reading the story. I worked (on the other end of a radio link) with several FACs during my tour in Vietnam. Only rarely have I heard about things from their side of an operation. Whatever you learn will be worth it, I'm sure.

And it always seems that the real heroes (10 Air Medals!!!) never tell their stories. They should be told.

Permalink Reply by Teresa Perkins Markham on April 13, 2012 at 1:02pm

Unfortunately he passed in 2007 so I'm going to have to get the info from my brother....he really didn't talk about it much. I have all his military records-he didnt throw any of that out. He told me a few years back he had the distinguished fly cross awarded to him but never received it. I have all the paper work so I am pursuing it. I think he had other medals awarded that weren't on his DD214-so Vet Services checking that out for me. It is important to me.....   

Permalink Reply by Ricardo Jacques on April 13, 2012 at 2:58pm

If I may...There's web sites of units in Vietnam.

If you know what units he served with, they might have forums.

And some of those veterans might have some information.

Another thing you might look for a web site that lists .

All the Air Force Distinguished Fly Cross awarded in Vietnam.

There might even be a citation.

This award say's that he did some flying in some air-craft .

You might also seek a web site for the Air Force Air Medals.

Now and maybe than, FAC serve with some ground units.

Much like a Forward Observer (FO) for a artillery unit.

That why I feel it's important to talk about our service.

Many have taken it on their passing.

Permalink Reply by Ricardo Jacques on April 13, 2012 at 3:12pm
Permalink Reply by Teresa Perkins Markham on April 13, 2012 at 3:27pm

Thanks so much for you help...

Permalink Reply by Teresa Perkins Markham on April 30, 2012 at 10:41am

I went to the USAF Museum at Wright Patterson AFB Sunday with my sister(she lives close in Springfield). We checked out the monument dedicated to FAC in the park...my sister says-"You know dads name could've been on there very easily." (my sister was only 6 months old when he left for Vietnam)and I would've never gotten to know my father". I replied-"It just wasn't his time to go-God was taking care of him and he lived 40 more years."  We went inside and viewed some of the planes and the FAC display. I purchased a book about FAC and the lady cashier said her husband flew B-52's and many FAC's didn't return...just makes me appreciate everyone that serves and sacrifices made. It has been interesting getting my dads story together. I being the eldest remember the most and my sister the youngest doesn't remember much about military life. The stories need to be documented for future generations to appreciate.

Permalink Reply by Claudia Bartow on April 30, 2012 at 10:23pm
Exactly! Your dad is a lucky man to have survived. That is very cool you went to the USAF Museum and saw items related to him. Keep us posted on your progress!
Permalink Reply by Teresa Perkins Markham on April 30, 2012 at 10:39pm

My sisters son only being 10 needs this information documented as all the other family members...I guess it's up to me...the oldest always has to jog their aging memories....

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