This is the story of one of our shipmates, in my words, because he is too
modest to express his ordeal in patriotic terms. When I became aware of this
story I immediately thought, "what if this had happened to one of my children,"
and the impact was magnified many times.
This story also reminded me of that other group of American freedom fighters
I had overlooked in my initial thinking. This group is composed of the parents,
family, and friends of the people in the Armed Services. They fought their fight
for freedom as civilians on the home front. They fought their anxieties and
losses bravely, in silence, and in sadness. I asked myself if I could have done
as well.
The story begins with a telegram that was received by the parents of one of
our shipmates.
To: Mr. and Mrs. Charles Curtis With concern I inform you on behalf of the
United States Navy that your son was seriously injured as a result of a Viet
Cong attack on board this command the morning of 21 January. Your son is
presently hospitalized at the US Army Hospital in Vung Tau Republic of Viet Nam.
You are assured that he is receiving the best possible care and treatment. I
have been assured that his prognosis is good but will require a rather lengthy
hospitalization. In the near future he will be transferred to the US Naval
Hospital, Yokosuka, Japan for further observation. I suggest you do not send him
any mail here in Viet Nam as there is the possibility that he will be
transferred before he can receive it. When further reports are available
concerning his condition you will be informed. The anxiety which this report
brings you is fully understood and I join you in the wish for his recovery,
Signed: Lieutenant Commander W. J. Riedemann
When I read the progress reports sent by Captain Riedemann it became apparent
to me that this was a Captain that DID fully understand the anxiety and pain of
his crew man's parents and in fact, shared their suffering. It also sounded to
me like the injuries were severe and I commented to Barry that it sounded like
he got beat up pretty bad. Here is his response, in his own words.
"I did take quite a beating. Broken hips (both), Broken lower back, broken
ribs (each and every one on the right side), rib cage also crushed. Lungs looked
like Swiss cheese, shrapnel in arms legs, stomach, chest, neck, and head. Liver
was in bad shape. Head was broken, and I was PISSED. I did not want to leave."
My older brother Kevin was also aboard the Tom Green. He was an RD2. He was
not injured but at times I think he had it harder than I did. I would not like
to see my brother in that shape. As I may have mentioned to you before, there
was a young (we were all young) Corpsman E3 who saved my life. I do not know him
but I am trying to find him just to thank him.
I recovered and still ride my Harley.
I have been corresponding with the Nurse who cared for me while in the 36th
Evacuation Hospital in Vung Tau, RVN. I found the 36th home page and started to
inquire. This is a great feeling for me. She worked with Dr. Lane, the Army
doctor who put me back together again. I guess I should be glad that he was not
one of the Kings horses or one of the Kings men. Because he WAS able to put me
together again.
For me the story tells it all. Patriotism, care for your fellow man, love of
family, modesty, thankfulness for assistance, and thankfulness for a free life.
And finally, I have included this comment from our web site guest book. It is
a comment from parents of military age children and is a sincere and honest
expression of the feelings many parents have for all the sons and daughters that
have served their country.
"We have not had the privilege of serving in the armed forces, but I want to
deeply extend my appreciation and heartfelt thanks to all of you who have so
honorably and courageously placed your lives in jeopardy to defend our Country
and our liberties. Without your sacrifice the world would be in the hands of
tyrants and we would not enjoy the freedoms we cherish today."
"God bless all of you." Pete and Anita Fass
Chamber of Commerce Press Release
FIGHTING FOR FREEDOM