16 Nov 2004 Michael, You were a deep, compassionate young man whom I only had the privilege of knowing for a few months before you lost your life trying to save mine. I think of you so often, and honor your bravery in crawling out amidst a hail of bullets to rescue me after I was hit. You died as your right hand was in mid-air seeking to apply a field dressing to my shattered jaw. In my heart, you are a martyr to the insanity of mankind's inability to love deeply enough to create a peaceful, loving world. I will honor you forever. Your friend and brother, Bill Larsen P. O. Box 2275, Nevada City, Ca 95959 blarsen@nccn.net

 

5 Dec 2004 We were young and took life and friendships for granted, taking life in the moment unaware of the real sufferings of war and the world. Balmy Long Island summer nights were filled with conversations and mugs of beer at Poor Richard's Pub across the street from St. Johns University in Queens NY. You became a soldier and died. I lived and crossed another 30 years of life. Life put me 30 years later sitting next to your comrade you saved, who was right next you the second the bullet pierced your body and released your soul to Paradise... The war was a theatre for you to act out your love. I recall the letter John Yanek read to me saying how much you loved being a medic helping your fellow soldiers, aiding life instead of taking it away. I remember your beautiful mind that always asked "Why?". Most importantly I remember your kindness. I stood at your funeral viewing your bent over grieving mother across the room, too young to understand her pain of losing her only son. I recall the old Irish priest's ruddy skin and red hair. I think his name was Father Duncan. His short eulogy was only six words as if to avoid experiencing any uncomfortable emotions. "Don't worry, Michael is in Heaven." I shall look for you there, up and down the hallowed holy streets of Heaven, asking for your name. William (Bill) Buonora 07 Dec 2005 You died in a field in Viet Nam while the warm summer sun passed over Long Island as your classmates worked and played in 1969. Still thinking about you, my dear young friend, still wondering, still asking, where did you and the other young slain soldiers go? Are you waiting for us old men? Still here, wishing someday to meet up and embrace and share life's mystery. Just a few years left for most of us. Still asking the why of war the why of life and the where of love. From a college friend, William Buonora 12 Nov 2006 Another year, Michael. I remembered when you tutored me in college. You had all the answers, a small act, yet even the smallest acts can be remembered with great appreciation. Now, I bet, with the wisdom you have from the other side you could show me real knowledge. Your death was not the horrible sight we imagine. In reality your soul flew to heaven into love on that day of battle, released of earthly trials. May your soul rest peacefully and compassionately for those us behind. From a college friend, William Buonora E-mail address is not available.

 

Visit John Dennison's Medics on the Wall memorial which honors the Army Medics and Navy Corpsmen who died in Vietnam.

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