Murphy – Fifty-four years ago, Bob Strawhecker and J.D. Baker, both U.S. Navy veterans, served their country at Camp Tien Sha, Da Nang, Vietnam. This base was small and not knowing each other, their paths had to cross many times during their one-year tour.
When they received incoming mortar fire, they must have shared the same bunker. There was a small cantina they both frequented; they were surely there at the same time drinking a few beers.
In 2016, J.D. and Bob were introduced by a friend who knew their history in Vietnam. Bob and J.D. met for coffee and discussed their experiences while in Da Nang and Camp Tien Sha.
Bob asked, J.D. were you there when a mortar hit the barracks in camp? J.D.’s eyes widened and said, yes, my barracks was next to it.
Bob could not believe what he was hearing, and said his barracks were directly on the other side. From this day forward, they established a common bond and have become best friends. They are now spending time working with the American Legion and serving on the Honor Guard.
Strawhecker and Baker both have been selected to visit Washington to celebrate and share with America’s veterans a day of honor at our nation’s memorials.
Organizers said it is an honor and a privilege to have these Vietnam veterans make this journey Saturday, April 29. They will be joining the many veterans who have experienced our nation’s memorials.
Veterans who have visited Washington since 2005:
- 856, World War II.
- 2,960, Korea.
- 16,903, Vietnam.
- 1,081, other.
- Total: 273,543.