Support the joint memorial

Published 4:46 pm Wednesday, July 17, 2013

My brother, Gary L. Holz, and I grew up in Auburn and graduated from Auburn High School. We also served in combat in Vietnam, myself with the 4th Infantry Division as a 11 Bravo (combat rifleman). My brother served with the 1st Cavalry Air Assault Team as a door gunner on a Huey chopper.

We served in Vietnam at the same time and fought alongside of the RVN (Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces) troops who lead us into the jungles and mountains of Vietnam. The RVN troops showed me strength and courage in combat, well protecting their country and assisting the American military with great pride and respect for our soldiers.

My brother and I fought hard with the RVN troops. However, on Oct. 5 1967, Gary L. Holz and five other crew members were killed in action when their Huey went down.

I was sent home after his death.

I have the deepest respect for the RVN troops who helped me come home at a great cost to human lives on their side as much as ours.

The RVN troops deserve to be honored alongside the American troops. We all fought together against North Vietnam for the same reason. We should be honored together as well.

My family, myself and my brother who gave all would appreciate your support for this American/Vietnamese memorial (in Auburn).

– Ronald V. Holz