| TRIBUTE |
| Sgt. Ronnie T. Mathis A Co. 1st. Bn. 5th Cav. Airmobile 1st Cavalry Div. |
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| RONNIE WAS KILLED ON NOVEMBER 17, 1965 Ia Drang Valley AT LZ ALBANY PLEI ME, VIETNAM |
| Ronnie entered the Army in 1962 and was promoted to Sgt. E-5 within a three year period. After his initial time of service, Ronnie reinlisted in 1964. His tour of duty in Vietnam began in August of 1965. |
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| "To Live in the hearts of those we leave behind is to never die." |
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My Tribute to Ronnie by Yvonne Guidroz He was such a young soldier Strong, protective and brave As war came to our country In a land far, far away. I remember the last time I saw him 'Twas the summer of '65 We embraced and said our final farewells The last time I saw him alive. He had such a love for his country For his family and his friends He happily went to protect us all Though it meant his life could end. A land called Vietnam; so unfamiliar With terrain he did not know But for him it was an honor For his country he would go. Plei Me, Vietnam, the other side of the world From his family who loved him so No words could ever stop him It was his choice he wanted to go. They were headed for Landing Zone Albany A walk in the sun they say They walked into an ambush On that hot November day. It is called the Ia Drang Valley God must have loved him so For He sent His angels to take him From the land he fought in below. The Telgram came and it pierced like a blade Cutting and scarring my heart Wednesday, November 17, 1965 Sgt. Ronnie T. Mathis did depart. Many years have come and gone Since that day in '65 The last time I saw Ronnie, The last time I saw him alive. I know now Ronnie you are at peace For I too have found mine within I know now your soul rests in heaven And one day I will see you again. |
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| HELP! We are looking for Jim Neville Friend of Ronnie and family Jim, please contact us so we can share memories. If anyone knows his whereabouts please contact Yvonne yguidroz@cox.net |
| Ronnie's name can be found on Panel 03E of the Vietnam Memorial Wall. |
| Stories, Poem, Letter and atricles |
| Pictures |
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| On the firing range at Ft. Benning Sept. 1964 Many thanks to "Purp" for the picture |
