Joseph served as a SGT in the US Army in Vietnam. His service started the 2nd of Feb., 1968. He was buried the 21st of May, 1997 at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
All my respects and regards to Joe. He joined after me ('65) and seemed very motivated to join after I visited with him upon my return from Vietnam in 1967. After I heard of his death, I contacted his sister Sue and his mother to give them my respects. Joe died way too young, as the lingering, subsequent elements of that war took over his being. Sad. I felt, and still do, very bad. If I knew he was suffering with those demons inside, I would have gone to his side and tried to support him, surely understanding his plight. Joe and I shared something quite secret. Both of us failed the initial medical exam to join, he the Army, me the Marines. We were both classified as 4-F, but kept trying...and succeeded. We both had blood pressure challenges, would you believe...probably from being so hyped up and excited to join...imagine that!
Joe, you are appreciated always...and missed. I am so sorry that I couldn't be there for you in personal support.
I remember Joe so well. It was through him that I met his sister Sue and we became lifelong friends. My brother Butch and Joe were good friends so Joe would come over to the house quite often. I had a such a crush on him. He was a terrific guy and I know how much he is missed. Yes Jon you are right the war did mess him up as it did many young men. I know his mom and dad and sisters were always there to support him.
Jon M. Meade
All my respects and regards to Joe. He joined after me ('65) and seemed very motivated to join after I visited with him upon my return from Vietnam in 1967. After I heard of his death, I contacted his sister Sue and his mother to give them my respects. Joe died way too young, as the lingering, subsequent elements of that war took over his being. Sad. I felt, and still do, very bad. If I knew he was suffering with those demons inside, I would have gone to his side and tried to support him, surely understanding his plight. Joe and I shared something quite secret. Both of us failed the initial medical exam to join, he the Army, me the Marines. We were both classified as 4-F, but kept trying...and succeeded. We both had blood pressure challenges, would you believe...probably from being so hyped up and excited to join...imagine that!
Joe, you are appreciated always...and missed. I am so sorry that I couldn't be there for you in personal support.
I will however, always be in my heart and spirit.
Semper Fi, Jon
LaWana D. Bisset (Lampert)
I remember Joe so well. It was through him that I met his sister Sue and we became lifelong friends. My brother Butch and Joe were good friends so Joe would come over to the house quite often. I had a such a crush on him. He was a terrific guy and I know how much he is missed. Yes Jon you are right the war did mess him up as it did many young men. I know his mom and dad and sisters were always there to support him.
Janice C. Horton (Plessas)
Thank you both for posting your memories of Joe.
Carol Ann Johnson (Nelson)
A special thank you to Jon Meade for his donation to the reunion in memory of Joe.