CPL RICHARD ALFRED UNGERECHT

 

05 Mar 2002 To let you know that you are gone but not forgotten, I write this note to you. It is hard to believe that nearly 37 years have passed. What I have to say is difficult, long past due, and largely inadequately expressed. I still remember you like it was just yesterday. I remember our swims in Okinawa. You were like an Olympic swimmer and I could only dog paddle along. Thought I was going to drown a few times, but you just kept swimming and encouraging me to do the same. Our values were the same and that always meant a lot to me. I also remember how we confided in each other during times of uncertainty and stress. You even stood guard over me during daily medical missions with the villagers. Most of all I remember a lot of good talks about those we loved back home. Many of them are still around and I suppose some are with you now. After many years, I have been blessed to learn about some of your family and friends via e-mail. I hope to meet some of them someday. I guess I was impressed (but not surprised) of how much they all loved you. Although I knew you for only 5 or 6 months, all that I saw in you was wholesome and good. If you were here now, I know you would be emanating that beautiful smile you seemed always to have. That's what I remember most about you. Why did you have to die on that awful rainy night? Many times I have asked myself that question ... why was I not on patrol with you. Maybe, just maybe ... it would have been different. It was such a test for all who knew you. I know in my heart that it was because you had already passed the great tests of life. We are still working on them, but why ponder providence? Until we meet again (and we will), continue in peace, my fellow Marine and dear friend. "Doc" Hastriter michaelhastriter@comcast.net

 

22 May 2004 Dear Richard You seem to be such an amazing person and hero. I am extremly sorry you lost your life in the war. Even though you are not here, many people still know what you did for our country. I chose your life for a school project because you seemed like such an amazing person to know. Thank you for letting me understand the war and the men who fought in it better. I hope you had a great life and are happy wherever you are now. mp10986@aol.com

 

29 May 2006 Dick: Just some thoughts to say I remember you on this Memorial Day. While I have often thought of visiting your gravesite, it has not come to pass. So many years have passed since we passed the baton during the mile relay at Brainerd's Washington High School. I remember your prowess in the mile run. We were both in Vietnam but my tour was a year later. We remember how we bonded in battle with our friends and how difficult it became as we lost them. I remember those men I lost in combat and revere them. They were the true heroes of our time! We are both Marines! Sleep well, my comrade. You are loved for what you were and what you gave. You are a Warrior for whom others will never know the full extent of your sacrifice. I am happy I knew you as a fellow athlete, friend, comrade and Marine. Semper Fi Dick! Ron From a friend in High School, Ron Longtin rlongtinjr@charter.net

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