I remember Ken (and have visited the VietNam War Memorial in DC three times to honor him, among others) but this is growing, for our class memories. I also remember Phil Lotta who sat next to me in Freshman English at ECHS. I think Phil went to Encina after that. He was a cute kid. Very sweet. Maybe others remember him too. He died early in the war.
So, all the times I go to DC (family lives there), I honor both Phil and Ken. It's emotional. That war kicked us in the behind, as a group of new HS grads.
This thread has been so very moving and gratifying, as we all turn 70. Thanks to all who have contributed. I remember Larry Bramblett telling me that story about Ken when we were working together years ago at Pacific Bell. I remember all the people being memorialized on this site.
I am the (ex) wife of a US Marine who shared a tent with Gustav Hasford (who wrote "The Short Timers" which became the movie "Full Metal Jacket") and both my sons became US Marines ---- one in combat in Iraq several times, up until recently. 12 years. Several in combat.
Thanks to all for these memories ---- I know almost nobody around here in California who has been married to a military person and had sons who went into combat.
Thanks to everyone for sharing these memories. While we celebrate the Summer of Love this year also ---- we can't forget the people who served in the military around that time. Ken and Phil and others --- who went to serve. Wasn't so fun and love for them in the jungle.
Thanks Larry and Dennis and Susan and others. Appreciate everyone with reminders.
Before this thread even began, I had been thinking a lot about my classmates at El Camino. When I first heard about the Ken Burns Vietnam War documentary coming out this month, I wondered how all of you feel today about that time, and what opinions you have now so many years later.
I identified with Jeanette, because I too was largely untouched at the time by that war. I have to confess that when I was young and self-involved, I did not completely understand the depth of the impact this had on lives all around me. Over the years I came to realize how those beautiful young kids I went to school with must have felt being drafted, how frightening that must have been, how parents and families were devastated. I remember the aftermath, when veterans were condemned by some as if they were somehow responsible for whatever went wrong.
I thought about my El Camino classmates when I first visited the Vietnam memorial, created so long after the war ended. I looked for familiar names, but I remember being overwhelmed by the sheer volume. I thought about what I was doing during each of those years represented and felt embarrassed at how oblivious I had been.
I am grateful for all your comments—Dennis, Larry, Tom, Jo’ann, Susan, Jeanette and Lynne—and I value having this resource to at least be able to pay my own tribute specifically to those of you who served, and those among us and their families who sacrificed everything.
Lynne, one of the five other Marine's from Sacramento I spoke of was Phillip Lotta. I spoke of one Marine living just up the street from me growing up. That was Phil Lotta....Phil was with the 9th Marine Regiment operating in Quang Nam Province when he lost his life shortly before I moved up from Quang Ngni Province near Chu Lai. I spoke with Phil's First Sergeant regarding Phil's untimely death and spent time at the location where Phil lost his life. It was tragic as Phil obviouly wished to be the best Marine he possibly could.
Yes, we were rejected by so many upon returning to what we thought was "home." Some of us couln't even recongnize home when we reurned. In fact, many of the veteran groups Larry spoke of previously, also rejected us (American Legion and others) while refusing to recognize us as combat veteran's for reasons I assume was because the Vietnam War was so unpopular.... Not all Vietnam veteran's were exposed to the same things, or had the same experiences, some of which may even resent those that did for some unknown reason. But those that did, paid a very very high price and were damaged irrepriably. It has nothing to do with walking away from ones military oath as our perceptions differ substantially based on our experiences.
This isn't about any of what I've said here, nor whether one takes an active roll in any veteran's group. This is about Ken Kotyluk and his ultimate sacrifice for his country and the freedom's so many of us still benefit from. I too have visited both the Vietnam Mormorial in Washington D.C. and the traveling wall and wept as I traced the names of those Marine's who died around me and even in my arms. I traced Phillip Lotta's name as well, for his younger brother Robbie........ We lost so many, representing our National Treasure in that God foresaken place............
You are right Bonnie. All these young men were condemned for fighting in the Vietnam War. They were drafted and did not have a choice, but instead of criticizing the government, people took it out on the brave young men that risked their lives. I remember businesses that wouldn’t hire Vietnam War vets. This made no sense. How awful to be condemned for a war that you had no choice in. To carry back the horrors of war and then have your own country look down on you. To have our government take years before they did anything for our military about agent orange was awful. My opinion is that any one that serves in the military should have medical for life and good medical treatment. I knew Phil Lotta since elementary school and remember when he was killed. My brother also served in Vietnam. To be the only survivor in any situation is traumatic. You always wonder why me and not them. Military need everyone’s support and a thank you for their service to our country.
I posted initially because I saw many other tributes to classmates who left us too soon, but was surprised to see there were no tributes to Ken. Glad to see so many wading in with their tributes and comments. I do want to add a couple of things. For most of us who served in Vietnam, we didn't expect any kind of homecoming welcome, but simply wanted to move forward with our lives. Many of us went back to college, obtained our degrees, started our careers, raised good families, got involved with our communities, and have been productive members of society. We take pride in our service in Vietnam and don't use it as an excuse or as a reason to seek pity. Secondly, for those of us who were in combat on the front lines (such as they were), we reflect back on what we once said--"You have never lived until you've almost died." We take every day given to us as a blessing, as we all should. Stay well classmates.
Lynn Meckfessel, I was a friend of Phil Lotta. I also remember him as a kind sweet kid. I was so sorry to hear about his death. Apparently he was killed by friendly fire when trying to return to his unit's location from a lookout position. Larry Bramblett, keep up the good work. It is needed. I think it is not uncommon for those of us who served in war to have profoundly significant memories come up more and more as we age. I think it more likely for VN era vets, as most did not have the social permission to talk about our experiences. I can personally attest to the deep sense of appreciation I feel when someone now kindly acknowledges my service. I so very much appreciated the special attention paid to the class of 65 vets at our last reunion. I remember when no one wanted to be us. Even most of us didn't want to be us. Now, ironically, there are a few individuals who claim to have been one of us when they weren't. It is called "Stolen Honor." I guess it all works out in the end. Thanks to all of you who have posted the kind comments in this thread.
I have really been emotionally moved by all the comments on this "thread". I'm sorry, I do not remember Ken Kotyluk, but I am thankful and grateful for his service to our country. It touches my heart to read all of these beautiful comments. I was married for 35 years to my husband John. John served in Vietnam and thankfully, he came back home. He died suddenly and unexpectantly in Feb 2003 of illness related to Agent Orange.
I do remember Phil Lotta. We went to grade school together and I remember him sitting behind me in one of my high school classes (can't remember which class??) When my family and I went to the Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC, I looked up his name and found it on the wall. Phil had only just arrived in Vietnam -- just a few weeks. To see his name and date of death...it affected me more than I ever dreamed it would. Just to think that a classmate of mine was there in Vietnam, for such a short time and was killed just "hit me" so emotionally. I have been blessed to remarry, after 8 1/2 years of being widowed. My husband Larry serves as a Chaplain and also runs a ministry called Dustoff Ministries. Their mission is to hook up with vets (of all wars). They support and encourage them and to remind them of their vow to "never leave a brother or sister behind". Larry has a heart and a passion to reach each and every one of them. Thank you to all who have posted their comments and may we never forget our fallen classmates who gave "all"
I am also very moved by all the comments about the boys we lost. Thank you for what you do for the Vietnam Vets. I was married to John Crouse (Class of 1964) for 5 years in 1969. He joined the Army in 1968 and got into Officer's Candidate Flight School (fixed wing) in Fort Rucker, Alabama. He flew reconnaissance in Mohawks over Vietnam. He made it home, but he was affected by that war with alcoholism, melanoma and a heart condition which killed him at the age of 64. I remember when he came home and arrived at the airport here in Sacramento wearing his dress greens. No fan fare at all. I often think of all the guys who lost their life out of our class. Keep the comments coming.
I did not know Ken, but saw his grave on Veterans' Day when I went to honor a friend who had survivied WWII and died in the 90's. I recognized Ken's name right away as having been from our class. His remains are buried in the Court of Honor at Mt. Vernon Cemetery on Greenback Lane. It's one of the first graves on the far right as you walk up the hill from the main parking lot... As I think of him and other young soldiers who gave their lives for our country, I feel especially blessed that both of my brothers survived the Vietnam War...
Lynne Meckfessel
I remember Ken (and have visited the VietNam War Memorial in DC three times to honor him, among others) but this is growing, for our class memories. I also remember Phil Lotta who sat next to me in Freshman English at ECHS. I think Phil went to Encina after that. He was a cute kid. Very sweet. Maybe others remember him too. He died early in the war.
So, all the times I go to DC (family lives there), I honor both Phil and Ken. It's emotional. That war kicked us in the behind, as a group of new HS grads.
This thread has been so very moving and gratifying, as we all turn 70. Thanks to all who have contributed. I remember Larry Bramblett telling me that story about Ken when we were working together years ago at Pacific Bell. I remember all the people being memorialized on this site.
I am the (ex) wife of a US Marine who shared a tent with Gustav Hasford (who wrote "The Short Timers" which became the movie "Full Metal Jacket") and both my sons became US Marines ---- one in combat in Iraq several times, up until recently. 12 years. Several in combat.
Thanks to all for these memories ---- I know almost nobody around here in California who has been married to a military person and had sons who went into combat.
Thanks to everyone for sharing these memories. While we celebrate the Summer of Love this year also ---- we can't forget the people who served in the military around that time. Ken and Phil and others --- who went to serve. Wasn't so fun and love for them in the jungle.
Thanks Larry and Dennis and Susan and others. Appreciate everyone with reminders.
Bonnie Jones
Before this thread even began, I had been thinking a lot about my classmates at El Camino. When I first heard about the Ken Burns Vietnam War documentary coming out this month, I wondered how all of you feel today about that time, and what opinions you have now so many years later.
I identified with Jeanette, because I too was largely untouched at the time by that war. I have to confess that when I was young and self-involved, I did not completely understand the depth of the impact this had on lives all around me. Over the years I came to realize how those beautiful young kids I went to school with must have felt being drafted, how frightening that must have been, how parents and families were devastated. I remember the aftermath, when veterans were condemned by some as if they were somehow responsible for whatever went wrong.
I thought about my El Camino classmates when I first visited the Vietnam memorial, created so long after the war ended. I looked for familiar names, but I remember being overwhelmed by the sheer volume. I thought about what I was doing during each of those years represented and felt embarrassed at how oblivious I had been.
I am grateful for all your comments—Dennis, Larry, Tom, Jo’ann, Susan, Jeanette and Lynne—and I value having this resource to at least be able to pay my own tribute specifically to those of you who served, and those among us and their families who sacrificed everything.
Tom McTernan
Lynne, one of the five other Marine's from Sacramento I spoke of was Phillip Lotta. I spoke of one Marine living just up the street from me growing up. That was Phil Lotta....Phil was with the 9th Marine Regiment operating in Quang Nam Province when he lost his life shortly before I moved up from Quang Ngni Province near Chu Lai. I spoke with Phil's First Sergeant regarding Phil's untimely death and spent time at the location where Phil lost his life. It was tragic as Phil obviouly wished to be the best Marine he possibly could.
Yes, we were rejected by so many upon returning to what we thought was "home." Some of us couln't even recongnize home when we reurned. In fact, many of the veteran groups Larry spoke of previously, also rejected us (American Legion and others) while refusing to recognize us as combat veteran's for reasons I assume was because the Vietnam War was so unpopular.... Not all Vietnam veteran's were exposed to the same things, or had the same experiences, some of which may even resent those that did for some unknown reason. But those that did, paid a very very high price and were damaged irrepriably. It has nothing to do with walking away from ones military oath as our perceptions differ substantially based on our experiences.
This isn't about any of what I've said here, nor whether one takes an active roll in any veteran's group. This is about Ken Kotyluk and his ultimate sacrifice for his country and the freedom's so many of us still benefit from. I too have visited both the Vietnam Mormorial in Washington D.C. and the traveling wall and wept as I traced the names of those Marine's who died around me and even in my arms. I traced Phillip Lotta's name as well, for his younger brother Robbie........ We lost so many, representing our National Treasure in that God foresaken place............
Carol Arbini (McFarland)
You are right Bonnie. All these young men were condemned for fighting in the Vietnam War. They were drafted and did not have a choice, but instead of criticizing the government, people took it out on the brave young men that risked their lives. I remember businesses that wouldn’t hire Vietnam War vets. This made no sense. How awful to be condemned for a war that you had no choice in. To carry back the horrors of war and then have your own country look down on you. To have our government take years before they did anything for our military about agent orange was awful. My opinion is that any one that serves in the military should have medical for life and good medical treatment. I knew Phil Lotta since elementary school and remember when he was killed. My brother also served in Vietnam. To be the only survivor in any situation is traumatic. You always wonder why me and not them. Military need everyone’s support and a thank you for their service to our country.
Dennis Drennan (Drennan)
I posted initially because I saw many other tributes to classmates who left us too soon, but was surprised to see there were no tributes to Ken. Glad to see so many wading in with their tributes and comments. I do want to add a couple of things. For most of us who served in Vietnam, we didn't expect any kind of homecoming welcome, but simply wanted to move forward with our lives. Many of us went back to college, obtained our degrees, started our careers, raised good families, got involved with our communities, and have been productive members of society. We take pride in our service in Vietnam and don't use it as an excuse or as a reason to seek pity. Secondly, for those of us who were in combat on the front lines (such as they were), we reflect back on what we once said--"You have never lived until you've almost died." We take every day given to us as a blessing, as we all should. Stay well classmates.Jim Walt
Lynn Meckfessel, I was a friend of Phil Lotta. I also remember him as a kind sweet kid. I was so sorry to hear about his death. Apparently he was killed by friendly fire when trying to return to his unit's location from a lookout position. Larry Bramblett, keep up the good work. It is needed. I think it is not uncommon for those of us who served in war to have profoundly significant memories come up more and more as we age. I think it more likely for VN era vets, as most did not have the social permission to talk about our experiences. I can personally attest to the deep sense of appreciation I feel when someone now kindly acknowledges my service. I so very much appreciated the special attention paid to the class of 65 vets at our last reunion. I remember when no one wanted to be us. Even most of us didn't want to be us. Now, ironically, there are a few individuals who claim to have been one of us when they weren't. It is called "Stolen Honor." I guess it all works out in the end. Thanks to all of you who have posted the kind comments in this thread.
Doreen Herrilson (Adams-Minasian)
I have really been emotionally moved by all the comments on this "thread". I'm sorry, I do not remember Ken Kotyluk, but I am thankful and grateful for his service to our country. It touches my heart to read all of these beautiful comments. I was married for 35 years to my husband John. John served in Vietnam and thankfully, he came back home. He died suddenly and unexpectantly in Feb 2003 of illness related to Agent Orange.
I do remember Phil Lotta. We went to grade school together and I remember him sitting behind me in one of my high school classes (can't remember which class??) When my family and I went to the Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC, I looked up his name and found it on the wall. Phil had only just arrived in Vietnam -- just a few weeks. To see his name and date of death...it affected me more than I ever dreamed it would. Just to think that a classmate of mine was there in Vietnam, for such a short time and was killed just "hit me" so emotionally. I have been blessed to remarry, after 8 1/2 years of being widowed. My husband Larry serves as a Chaplain and also runs a ministry called Dustoff Ministries. Their mission is to hook up with vets (of all wars). They support and encourage them and to remind them of their vow to "never leave a brother or sister behind". Larry has a heart and a passion to reach each and every one of them. Thank you to all who have posted their comments and may we never forget our fallen classmates who gave "all"
Jana Reynolds (Cortez)
I am also very moved by all the comments about the boys we lost. Thank you for what you do for the Vietnam Vets. I was married to John Crouse (Class of 1964) for 5 years in 1969. He joined the Army in 1968 and got into Officer's Candidate Flight School (fixed wing) in Fort Rucker, Alabama. He flew reconnaissance in Mohawks over Vietnam. He made it home, but he was affected by that war with alcoholism, melanoma and a heart condition which killed him at the age of 64. I remember when he came home and arrived at the airport here in Sacramento wearing his dress greens. No fan fare at all. I often think of all the guys who lost their life out of our class. Keep the comments coming.
Will Tonn
I don't remeber Ken but certainly appreciate his service & sacrifice for our country.
My heart goes out to those who lost family members/friends in the Vietnam War.
Although I was in Vietnam from 1/67 - 6/68, I feel very blessed to say that I returned emotionally & physically unscathed.
Judy Smith (Griggs)
I did not know Ken, but saw his grave on Veterans' Day when I went to honor a friend who had survivied WWII and died in the 90's. I recognized Ken's name right away as having been from our class. His remains are buried in the Court of Honor at Mt. Vernon Cemetery on Greenback Lane. It's one of the first graves on the far right as you walk up the hill from the main parking lot... As I think of him and other young soldiers who gave their lives for our country, I feel especially blessed that both of my brothers survived the Vietnam War...