A gift from a Friend

[doyler]

I visit an area flea market from time to time and had met a Viet Nam vet there about 3 years ago.Didnt realize he was a vet the first few times we spoke and we got to talking about what each of us collect and like.He mentioned he had served in Viet Nam.We talked a bit more and he said he was a paratrooper and had served in the 173rd.I mentioned I had another friend who was in the 173rd and had made the combat jump whith the 319th FA.

 

He was just amazed someone knew of his unit and even cared.He is a very quiet and humble person.He stated he never had kids and the things he did and saw in Viet Nam he was glad he didnt have kids that would have to do the things he did .He wasnt angry just making his statement.He said he had very little or nothing left of his service.Had gotten rid of his uniforms and all his stuff after returning.Lots of bad memories but no regrets really.You could tell He was proud of his service but a little embarresed to talk about it and was always looking around to see if someone was watching us.

 

Next time we met I pulled out a 173rd patch and Airborne tab and gave it to him.You would have thought I handed him a grand in cash.He said his mother had saved a lot of stuff as far as paper and a picture of him in uniform after basic or jump school.He also said she wasnot happy with him that he threw away his uniform and other items.

 

We again met last thursday at the fleamarket.He always sits with a friend to watch a table for a couple hours on set up day.We were talking and he reaches under the table and hands me this..........

 

 

 

 

 

[doyler]

His unit book from the 173rd.It was in the original mailer sent from the division to his mothers home.I have seen the books on occasion but never the Division mailer.

 

He said he wanted me to have it.He didnt have anyone to give it to and he wasnt wanting to keep it.I offered several times to buy it and he wouldnt consider an offer.He said "its yours".

 

I thanked him and told him what an honor it was to have this.He said he was more than happy I wanted it.Now I need to get him a little something to thank him for his generosity.

[Got da Penny]

That is a Great Story. You never know how far a kind gesture can take you. When another person gives you a

gift like that. It can be a very humble experience.

[1canpara]

Great story Ron and a very nice gift, with a special sentiment attached. What a nice guy, and I'm sure he's very grateful for your respectful friendship.

 

Thanks for sharing this,

 

Rick

[Brian Dentino]

Great story Ron....sounds like this gentleman falls squarely into the "friend" list and was probably just astonished anyone not only knew about his unit, but actually cared enough to talk to him about it without "hinting" around about getting something (other than conversation) out of the deal. I know that you will treasure this book and never forget how it came into your hands!

[doyler]

Thanks for all the kind comments.I really was pretty speechless when he handed it to me.

 

As I stated I had given him a patch previously as he said to me he didnt have anything left.I wondered if I had done the right thing as you never know what emotions an item may evoke from a veteran.I know he was proud(or I felt he was) of his service but often most are hestitant to speak of their time in the military especially those who were in Viet Nam.Many had so many negeative experiances once they returned home and still harbor a lot of emotions about that time and rightly so.I have seen it with a few friends and relatives.I feel pretty honored that these veterans will often speak to me about things and yet have never spoken to a family member or relative.

 

I already have plans of getting him an embroidered ball cap with a 173rd patch/wings on it.Not much but I want to return a little of his generosity.

[USCapturephotos]

Hey Ron!

I loved this story. Just taking the time to talk with your veteran/friend and show a sincere interest really meant a lot to him obviously. Collecting is great but sharing with the people who lived the history is priceless.

Paul