The story begins with a telegram that was received by the parents of one of your shipmates.
To: Mr and Mrs Charles Curtis
With concern I inform you in 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 Vaung 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, courage, care for your fellow man, love for your 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
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