"Thomas Jefferson said a democracy is dependent on an informed citizenry. I don't care whether it sounds corny or not. It's the truth." -Jim Lehrer
Carefree Truth
Issue #1027, June 6, 2022
Issue #1027, June 6, 2022
"Good morning! I'm sure the playing of Reveille brings back fond memories for many of you.
For those of you who have visited the Cave Creek Cemetery before, welcome back. And, for those of you, if this is your first visit, welcome to a special corner of Carefree. It warms my heart to see so many gathered here with a common interests and values to honor those who have given their lives in the service of our country.
Before the morning is over, don’t forget to stop by the Daughters of the American Revolution tent and enjoy a Carefree Roastery coffee, a bottle of water and a snack, and pick up a traditional Memorial Day red poppy pin. And next to the DAR are our good friends from the Veterans Heritage Project. They do great work for students and veterans and have been a fantastic partner for the Town of Carefree. I know they would like to share what they do with you.
A special thanks is in order for those who jumped at the opportunity to support and be a part of this morning. With us this morning is Carefree Town Staff – some who drove from as far as Peoria, Cave Creek Boy Scout Troop 603, The Carefree Roastery, they are closed on Mondays and who came in this morning to make coffee for us, and The Heritage assisted living facility who provided the van transportation across Pima Rd. This is a wonderful community event.
I’m John Crane, Vice Mayor of Carefree. On behalf of the 41 veterans interred in the Cave Creek Cemetery, their families, and friends, thank you for spending your Memorial Day morning here. It is easy to forget or take for granted those men and women who gave their lives or risked it all – So often we drive by this cemetery every day without paying it much heed. Many do not know it is here. But it’s because of veterans – because of their selfless sacrifices - we live in prosperity and peace with liberty and freedom. We are blessed.
This pioneer cemetery, deeded to remain in its natural state, was the vision of a longtime Cave Creek Resident, Elmer Gillespie. And Carefree honors that vision. It was created from land donated by the US National Forest Service in May 1955 and opened in 1956. Mr. Gillespie passed away that same year and was honored as the first person buried on this site. His son, Trilby Barnett Gillespie, was a vet and is buried here.
This morning, as we look around this pioneer cemetery, we see 41 American flags, marking each veteran grave site. The Tribute Riders placed the flags. Cave Creek American Legion Post 34 members cleaned up around those 41 grave sites earlier this month. Later today or at a quieter time, I encourage you to walk about and pay your respects. Paths will take you about the property. Just be sure to wear covered shoes.
To begin our program the Cave Creek Boy Scout Troop 603 Color Guard will Post the Colors. The Pledge of Allegiance will be led by newly appointed Post Commander of Cave Creek American Legion Post #34, Brian Fernandez. Commander Fernandez is a retired US Air Force Master Sergeant. His many deployments included Operation Support Hope, a military effort to provide immediate relief for the refugees of the Rwandan genocide, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He also served his community as a Police Sergeant in the Phoenix Police Department. Charli Carollo, a freshman at Cactus Shadows High School, and Annalyn Abraham, an 8th grader at Sonoran Trails Middle School, will then perform the National Anthem. Please rise for the Posting of Colors and remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance and singing of our National Anthem."
The Colors were posted.
"Commander Fernandez, would you please lead us in the pledge of allegiance? Thank you, Commander.
Please remain standing for the singing of our national anthem.
Please be seated. That was wonderful. Please give a special round of applause to Charli and Analyn."
https://vimeo.com/716189689
"Now to lead us in the Invocation, please welcome Deacon Doctor Handel Metcalf, from the Our Lady of Joy Catholic Church in Carefree. The Deacon is a semi-retired Physician who, with his wife and four children moved to North Scottsdale about 15 years ago."
"Good Morning,
It is an honor to be here with you on this beautiful morning here in Carefree. It is easy to forget what Memorial Day actually means while sitting by a pool and looking ahead at summer vacation; but the Historical reason for the holiday signifies much more than just a 3 day weekend.
Memorial Day is a Solemn day of Remembrance for everyone who has paid the ultimate price while serving in the American Armed forces. It took some time but this day was codified by Congress in 1968.
Our faith in our country and our faith in each other is what motivates us and sustains us. However, we acknowledge that our unity in faith needs to be nourished, and deepened. Through our Prayer, Work, and Charity together, many unite among us to become even more perfect. We gather in faith before the Lord, and have come this far as a Nation, not by our own Might, not by our own Power, but by the Guidance, Grace, Protection and Blessing of Our God. Come to us Lord; remain with us and enlighten our Hearts. Guide us by your wisdom; support us by your Power, for you are God.
You desire Justice for all; enable us to uphold the Rights of others. Do not allow us to be misled by Ignorance or Corrupted by fear or favor. Unite us to your self Lord, in a Bond of Love, and Keep us faithful to all that is true. As we gather here today in your name on this great day of Remembrance, may we temper justice with love, so that whether in Life of in Death, we may be pleasing to you.
Today, we honor all of our Veterans, who unselfishly placed their lives on the line for our freedom. These men and women were ordinary people, until they heard the call to duty and answered it. They left their families, homes, and their lives; not for recognition or fame or for the Honor we bestow upon them today. They simply served to protect our country.
As we honor our Veterans, and remember their deeds, let us also salute those who are currently Fighting for our Freedom. The freedom that we enjoy is very special, and that is why we must defend it, and for all of us to continue to protect freedom for many future Generations.
We are Humbled to honor our Veterans today. Let us walk toward tomorrow always grateful, and Honoring them by living Honorably, in the freedom their victories have bought. Bow your Heads for the Blessing!
God of Peace, we pray for those who have served our Nation and have laid down their Lives to Protect and Defend our Freedom. We pray for those who have served, whose bodies are Scarred by War; whose nights may be haunted by memories, too Painful for the light of day. We pray for those who serve us now, especially those in Harm's way. Shield them from danger and bring them home. Turn the Minds and Hearts of our leaders and our enemies to the works of Justice and the Harvest of Peace. May the Peace those who paid the ultimate price have Won for us, be the Peace that Sustains all of us who call this Great Country our home; the United States of America.
And May Almighty God Bless you, The Father, The Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Amen"
John Crane added, " "Thank you, Deacon. For those of you who do not know, Our Lady of Joy has recently created a Military Veterans Ministry. This ministry assists elderly and injured veterans who need a helping hand, fosters connections among veterans, provides and helps connect veterans and their families with the services they need. Carefree Resident and US Navy veteran Mike Wold organizes those programs. He was also instrumental in the creation of the Veterans Memorial in Carefree."
John Crane added, "Thank you, Deacon. For those of you who do not know, Our Lady of Joy has recently created a Military Veterans Ministry. This ministry assists elderly and injured veterans who need a helping hand, fosters connections among veterans, provides and helps connect veterans and their families with the services they need. Carefree Resident and US Navy veteran Mike Wold organizes those programs. He was also instrumental in the creation of the Veterans Memorial in Carefree."
https://vimeo.com/716198723
John Crane then introduced keynote speaker Lt. Col. Bob Jeffery, U.S. Air Force, Retired. "Our keynote speaker, Lt Col Bob Jeffrey, served in the US Air Force from 1960 to 1980. His yearning to fly was sparked by his environment, living in the Los Angeles area surrounded by rich aviation history and activity.
In the early days of his career, Lt Col Jeffrey flew T-37 and T-33 training aircraft followed by the F-102 and F-4 Phantom fighter. In December of 1965, Bob’s Squadron, the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing, was deployed permanently to Ubon Air Base, Thailand for combat operations in North Vietnam.
On December 20, 1965, his aircraft took a direct hit by 57 mm anti-aircraft fire while on a MIG combat air patrol along the North Vietnam/Chinese border. The aircraft disintegrated in a fireball at low altitude. He was miraculously able to eject from the stricken F-4 with his parachute opening a bare 400 feet above the ground. The local militia was already firing at him from the ground when his chute opened. Unfortunately, his Weapon Systems Operator, Lt. George Mims was unable to eject and perished in the aircraft.
Bob was immediately captured and later that evening put in front of a firing squad in an attempt to extract information from him. After a long torturous ride tied up in the back of a truck, Bob found himself in Hanoi at the infamous Hanoi Hilton. He would endure the next 7 years and 3 months at the hands of the North Vietnamese as a POW.
During the course of his distinguished career Lt. Col. Jeffrey received a Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star with V device and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Purple Heart with palm, Meritorious Service Medal, POW Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.
Today you can find Bob at an airport in Chandler providing test flight services and training. Please welcome Lt. Col. Bob Jeffrey. Thank you, Lt Col Jeffrey. It is truly an honor to have you here."
"GOOD MORNING, IT’S GOOD TO BE HERE WITH YOU THIS MORNING. WE HEAR THE WORD 'SACRIFICE' USED A LOT ON MEMORIAL DAY. THOSE OF US WHO HAVE SERVED AS A MEMBER OF THE ARMED FORCES, AND THEIR FAMILIES, TRULY KNOW THE MEANING OF THIS WORD. THEIR LIVES HAVE BEEN A TRIBUTE TO SACRIFICE. THOSE SACRIFICES COME IN MANY FORMS: DEATH, LIFE CHANGING WOUNDS, PTSD, REMOTE TOURS OF DUTY AWAY FROM THEIR FAMILY AND LOVED ONES, POOR LIVING CONDITIONS, LOW PAY, DIMINISHED RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES THAT THE AVERAGE CITIZEN ENJOYS, TO NAME A FEW.
THIS DAY, MEMORIAL DAY, WAS ORIGINALLY CALLED DECORATION DAY. IT WAS INSTITUTED IN 1868 TO HONOR THOSE KILLED IN THE CIVIL WAR BY PLACING DECORATIONS ON THEIR GRAVE SITES. IN 1971, IT OFFICIALLY BECAME MEMORIAL DAY. WE ARE HERE TODAY TO COMMEMORATE THOSE MEN AND WOMEN OF OUR ARMED FORCES WHO HAVE MADE THAT ULTIMATE SACRIFICE IN THE SERVICE OF OUR NATION. SO, ON THIS DAY, WE REMEMBER THEM AND TAKE INSPIRATION IN THEIR SERVICE, IN THEIR SACRIFICES, AND THEIR BRAVE DEEDS THAT HAVE PRESERVED OUR FREEDOMS. WHAT WE TAKE FOR GRANTED EVERY DAY HAS BEEN PAID FOR BY THE BLOOD OF THESE FALLEN HEROES.
THOMAS CAMPBELL, A SCOTTISH POET, SAID “THE PATRIOTS BLOOD IS THE SEED OF FREEDOM’S TREE”. HOW MANY TIMES HAVE OUR ARMED FORCES ANSWERED THE CALL TO DUTY AND SHED THEIR BLOOD IN ORDER TO PRESERVE THE FREE WORLD? THERE ARE 45 VETERANS INTERNED HERE
DUTY: I KNOW THE PRICE OF DUTY. ON DECEMBER 20TH, 1965, DURING THE VIETNAM WAR, I WAS PART A FLIGHT OF F-4C FANTOMS PROTECTING F-105S ATTACKING A RAILROAD BRIDGE ACROSS THE CHINA – NORTH VIETNAM BORDER WHEN MY AIRCRAFT WAS HIT BY INTENSE ANTI-AIRCRAFT FIRE AT LOW ALTITUDE.
MY AIRCRAFT LITERALLY DISINTEGRATED IN A FIREBALL. MY WSO AND I WERE ENGULFED IN FLAMES AS I GAVE THE ORDER TO EJECT FROM THE AIRCRAFT. THE G FORCES WERE SO INTENSE THAT I COULDN’T REACH THE EJECTION SEAT HANDLES ABOVE MY HEAD. I REMEMBER THINKING, 'I’M NOT GOING TO DIE IN THIS AIRCRAFT TODAY'. I WAS ABLE TO GET MY HANDS TOGETHER, AND WITH ALL MY STRENGTH, REACH FOR THE ALTERNATE EJECTION HANDLE ON THE FRONT OF MY SEAT. MY PARACHUTE OPENED AROUND 400 FEET ABOVE THE GROUND, SAVING MY LIFE. UNFORTUNATELY, MY WSO, 1ST LT GEORGE MIMS WAS NOT ABLE TO TO EJECT FROM THE FANTOM. HE DIED THAT DAY IN THE SERVICE OF OUR COUNTRY. HIS WIFE, BEVERLY, NEVER REMARRIED. OVER THE NEXT SEVEN YEARS, AS THE AIR WAR RAGED ON OVERHEAD, I LOST MORE FRIENDS.
MEANWHILE, I HAD BECOME THE PRISONER OF A CRUEL ENEMY. I ALMOST DIED THREE TIMES THAT DAY. EVERYONE IN MY FLIGHT THAT DAY SAID THAT NOBODY COULD HAVE SURVIVED THAT SHOOT DOWN BUT, SOMEHOW, I HAD MANAGED TO EJECT. WHILE IN THE PARACHUTE, THE SOLDIERS ON THE GROUND WERE SHOOTING AT ME WITH SMALL ARMS FIRE BUT ONLY GRAZED MY ANKLE.
THAT NIGHT I WAS PUT IN FRONT OF A FIRING SQUAD AFTER INTERROGATION ATTEMPTS HAD FAILED. THE FIRING SQUAD FIRED OVER MY HEAD. I WAS STILL ALIVE. ONCE IN THE PRISON CAMPS, WE WERE KEPT IN SOLITARY CONFINEMENT OR SMALL GROUPS. WE WERE NOT ALLOWED TO COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER, AND IF CAUGHT, WOULD BE BEATEN OR TORTURED.
HOWEVER, WE DID HAVE WAYS TO COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER VIA TAP/MUTE/MORSE.
AROUND 1970, AN AMAZING THING HAPPENED IN THE PRISON CAMPS OF NORTH VIETNAM. THE WORD SPREAD THROUGH THE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK THAT PEOPLE AT HOME WERE WEARING BRACELETS ENGRAVED WITH OUR NAMES. WE DIDN’T KNOW WHAT TO THINK AT FIRST BUT THIS NEWS CAUSED A GIANT BOOST OF MORALE IN THE DISMAL DEMORALIZING PRISON CAMP ATMOSPHERE. EVENTUALLY, WE DISCOVERED THAT IT WAS AN ATTEMPT ON THE PART OF CITIZEN GROUPS TO SPOTLIGHT THE POWS PLIGHT AND PROTEST OUR MISTREATMENT. IN LIGHT OF THE ANTI-WAR MOVEMENTS TAKING PLACE IN THE U.S., THE BRACELET MOVEMENT CONCERNED THE NORTH VIETNAMESE WHO BELIEVED THAT THIS COULD TURN PUBLIC SENTIMENT AGAINST THEM.
EVENTUALLY, IT DID CAUSE A CHANGE IN OUR LIVING CONDITIONS, REDUCING PHYSICAL PUNISHMENT AND IMPROVING OUR FOOD AND SPARSE MEDICAL TREATMENT. BUT IT WAS THAT ACT OF COMPASSION ON THE PART OF THE INDIVIDUALS WHO CARED ENOUGH TO WEAR THESE BRACELETS THAT IMPROVED OUR LIVES IN THE PRISON CAMPS OF NORTH VIETNAM.
THIS WAS FAR MORE THAN THE U.S. GOVERNMENT HAD ACHIEVED ON OUR BEHALF IN THE PREVIOUS FIVE YEARS. IN SOME CASES, THESE CHANGES SAVED LIVES. THE BRACELETS WERE SOLD THROUGH VIVA AND POW FAMILY ORGANIZATIONS. OVER 5 MILLION WERE SOLD. THE PROTOCOL WAS TO WEAR THE BRACELET UNTIL YOUR POW RETURNED OR WAS KNOWN TO BE DECEASED. WHEN YOUR POW RETURNED, YOU COULD GIVE THE BRACELET TO HIM OR PLACE A ROUND BLUE STICKER WITH A STAR ON IT AND KEEP IT.
WHEN I RETURNED, I AND THE DALLAS CARES ORGANIZATION RECEIVED HUNDREDS OF BRACELETS FOR POWS WHO LIVED IN OUR DALLAS, TX AREA. EVEN TODAY,50 YEARS LATER, I RECEIVE TWO OR THREE BRACELETS A YEAR. THEY ARE USUALLY ACCOMPANIED BY A LETTER OF APPRECIATION AND WELCOME HOME WISHES. MANY LASTING RELATIONSHIPS WERE BORN WHEN POWS AND THEIR BRACELET WEARER WERE UNITED. IN A WAY,THESE BRACELETS HAD BECOME A MEMORIAL TO THE MAN NAMED ON IT WHETHER HE RETURNED HOME OR NOT.
THIS DAY IS NOT ONLY TO HONOR THE FALLEN BUT A REMINDER FOR US TO EXPRESS OUR APPRECIATION FOR THOSE WHO SERVE TODAY. WHEN YOU SEE MEMBERS OF OUR ARMED FORCES IN UNIFORM, PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO SHOW YOUR APPRECIATION FOR THEIR SERVICE. BELIEVE ME IT'S WELL TAKEN.
I WISH YOU ALL A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN FREEDOM. PLEASE, ALWAYS REMEMBER WHAT OUR FALLEN HEROES HAVE SACRIFICED ON OUR BEHALF AND WHAT THOSE WHO SERVE TODAY MUST DO TO PRESERVE THAT FREEDOM IN THE FUTURE. GOD BLESS YOU AND GOD BLESS AMERICA. THANK YOU."
https://vimeo.com/716234110
"During the Vietnam War, Many Americans wore POW and MIA bracelets keeping our POWs and MIAs in the front of mind. With us this morning we have two guests who each wore a bracelet during these times. First, it is my pleasure to introduce Carefree resident, Betsy Lynn. She not only a wore bracelet in the 1970’s, but she also organizes the wreath and flowers at the base of the Veterans Memorial in Carefree every Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Following Betsy Lynn, Barbara Hatch, the founder of the Veterans Heritage Project will tell her bracelet story. Please welcome Betsy Lynn."
"Thank you John.
When I was in high school I was given this simple silver bracelet. Major Samuel Toomey III was engraved on it, and the date November-30-1968. I had no other details about the Major. I wore the bracelet as a reminder of him and all the Servicemen that were missing or prisoners of war in Vietnam.
I held on to the bracelet after the end of the Vietnam War, and thought about the missing 33 year old Major every time I saw it, never sure if I would find out his fate but hoping he had made it home safe. I checked the internet over the years but learned little information about “my missing soldier”. Recently I searched again and found much more detail.
On the last day of November 1968 Major Toomey was on a Special Forces mission in Laos with an eight man team when his helicopter was fired on, hit, and went down. All on board were presumed dead based on eyewitness accounts, but the wreckage was obscured by dense jungle, and was unreachable for confirmation. All were listed as Missing in Action. In March 1989, twenty one years later, remains from the crash were recovered, and positive identification of Major Toomey was made eleven months later. He is now interred in Arlington Cemetery, and his name is inscribed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the Washington Mall.
At last I knew the fate of the Major, saw his photo and learned he was from Independence, Missouri. I appreciated his Army service record and had the details of what happened that terrible day in November 1968. It was more than just facts. It felt personal because of 50 years I had with his bracelet.
Curious, I researched the bracelets further and learned that in 1970 two college women founded Voices in Vital America (or VIVA) and began distributing bracelets to increase the public awareness of the 35 hundred troops classified as missing or prisoners in Vietnam. The Media caught wind of the VIVA’s mission and broadcast information about the bracelets and they took off. Requests for bracelets grew to 12,000 a day, and over 5 million bracelets were distributed in 5 and a half years. VIVA stopped making bracelets in ’76, but M I A and P O W groups continue to produce the bracelets.
People wore their bracelets until the soldier returned to the USA. They were often given to the soldier or his surviving family, or were left at the base of a memorial once the soldier’s fate was known. Remains continue to be identified as forensic techniques improve and the Internet is filled with information about the soldiers commemorated on these bracelets.
Here is Barbara Hatch with an amazing story of her recent experience with her bracelet."
Barbara Hatch shared her bracelet story. "My boyfriend was in Vietnam in 1970. I attended Loyola University in Chicago. I bought this bracelet to support the POWs. I probably chose this one-PFC Arthur C. Ramirez, 12.6.50, Korea, AZ (she held up her arm with the bracelet) because that's the year I was born. Teaching took me to Senegal, Iran, and the Virgin Islands for the next 17 years. The bracelet was tucked away with the rest of my jewelry.
Bob's jar of bracelets, returned to him in 1973, when he was liberated, inspired me to return my bracelet to PFC Ramirez's family. But where to start?
Two months after the interview with Bob, an article in the Arizona Daily Star by Carmen Duarte told me that of the 53 sets of remains sent back from North Korea in 2018, Pvt. Ramirez was among them. He would be interred in the Marana Cemetery on March 19, 2020. I could return the bracelet. Covid had other plans. The service was closed to all but family.
Planning for today's tribute to POWs and MIAs, I reached out to the reporter. Did she have a family name for Pvt. Ramirez? Finally, a connection. Armando Rubalcaba, Capitola, California. Whitepages.com gave me a possible address. A letter. A text from Armando, telling me he had worn his own POW bracelet for 2-1/2 years while he served in Vietnam. He connected me to his cousin Arthur. A phone call last week informed me that Arthur's only brother had passed away two days before. Like his father, now he too had lost a brother because he never thought his uncle's remains would be returned, the bracelet would bring him joy. He was named after his uncle but had never met him.
A few days later, another call from another cousin, Angie Lopez, in Tucson. She and her grandson will meet me in Marana in June to pay respects to the soldier who lost his life near the Chosin Reservoir on his 19th birthday, December 6, 1950, while serving as an artilleryman with the 57th Field Artillery. She can hold the bracelet before I send it to her cousin Arthur. We will have lunch at the Feedlot Cafe and "add another chapter to her uncle's life story her grandson can tell his children.
All because of a bracelet and a determination 52 years later to put a face with the name engraved on it: PFC Arthur C. Ramirez, 12.6.50, Korea, AZ."
https://vimeo.com/716247358
John Crane thanked Betsy and Barbara for sharing their bracelet stories and the meaning those bracelets had to those who served, their families and themselves.
"Please welcome back the exceptionally talented Charli Carollo and Annalyn Abraham as they sing ‘America the Beautiful.’
As you go about the rest of your day surrounded by family and friends and as you move forward in life, keep in your minds and hearts the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for us.
I encourage you to stop by the Veterans Memorial in the Carefree Desert Gardens and pay your respects. At the base of the Memorial is a beautiful wreath and flowers to commemorate this solemn day. Remember those who gave dearly to serve our country to protect our liberty, for this is the true meaning of Memorial Day. Say a prayer for them and thank God for what they have done for you."
TAPS was played and the Colors were retrieved.
"Thank you again for joining us."
https://vimeo.com/716268854
For those of you who have visited the Cave Creek Cemetery before, welcome back. And, for those of you, if this is your first visit, welcome to a special corner of Carefree. It warms my heart to see so many gathered here with a common interests and values to honor those who have given their lives in the service of our country.
Before the morning is over, don’t forget to stop by the Daughters of the American Revolution tent and enjoy a Carefree Roastery coffee, a bottle of water and a snack, and pick up a traditional Memorial Day red poppy pin. And next to the DAR are our good friends from the Veterans Heritage Project. They do great work for students and veterans and have been a fantastic partner for the Town of Carefree. I know they would like to share what they do with you.
A special thanks is in order for those who jumped at the opportunity to support and be a part of this morning. With us this morning is Carefree Town Staff – some who drove from as far as Peoria, Cave Creek Boy Scout Troop 603, The Carefree Roastery, they are closed on Mondays and who came in this morning to make coffee for us, and The Heritage assisted living facility who provided the van transportation across Pima Rd. This is a wonderful community event.
I’m John Crane, Vice Mayor of Carefree. On behalf of the 41 veterans interred in the Cave Creek Cemetery, their families, and friends, thank you for spending your Memorial Day morning here. It is easy to forget or take for granted those men and women who gave their lives or risked it all – So often we drive by this cemetery every day without paying it much heed. Many do not know it is here. But it’s because of veterans – because of their selfless sacrifices - we live in prosperity and peace with liberty and freedom. We are blessed.
This pioneer cemetery, deeded to remain in its natural state, was the vision of a longtime Cave Creek Resident, Elmer Gillespie. And Carefree honors that vision. It was created from land donated by the US National Forest Service in May 1955 and opened in 1956. Mr. Gillespie passed away that same year and was honored as the first person buried on this site. His son, Trilby Barnett Gillespie, was a vet and is buried here.
This morning, as we look around this pioneer cemetery, we see 41 American flags, marking each veteran grave site. The Tribute Riders placed the flags. Cave Creek American Legion Post 34 members cleaned up around those 41 grave sites earlier this month. Later today or at a quieter time, I encourage you to walk about and pay your respects. Paths will take you about the property. Just be sure to wear covered shoes.
To begin our program the Cave Creek Boy Scout Troop 603 Color Guard will Post the Colors. The Pledge of Allegiance will be led by newly appointed Post Commander of Cave Creek American Legion Post #34, Brian Fernandez. Commander Fernandez is a retired US Air Force Master Sergeant. His many deployments included Operation Support Hope, a military effort to provide immediate relief for the refugees of the Rwandan genocide, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He also served his community as a Police Sergeant in the Phoenix Police Department. Charli Carollo, a freshman at Cactus Shadows High School, and Annalyn Abraham, an 8th grader at Sonoran Trails Middle School, will then perform the National Anthem. Please rise for the Posting of Colors and remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance and singing of our National Anthem."
The Colors were posted.
"Commander Fernandez, would you please lead us in the pledge of allegiance? Thank you, Commander.
Please remain standing for the singing of our national anthem.
Please be seated. That was wonderful. Please give a special round of applause to Charli and Analyn."
https://vimeo.com/716189689
"Now to lead us in the Invocation, please welcome Deacon Doctor Handel Metcalf, from the Our Lady of Joy Catholic Church in Carefree. The Deacon is a semi-retired Physician who, with his wife and four children moved to North Scottsdale about 15 years ago."
"Good Morning,
It is an honor to be here with you on this beautiful morning here in Carefree. It is easy to forget what Memorial Day actually means while sitting by a pool and looking ahead at summer vacation; but the Historical reason for the holiday signifies much more than just a 3 day weekend.
Memorial Day is a Solemn day of Remembrance for everyone who has paid the ultimate price while serving in the American Armed forces. It took some time but this day was codified by Congress in 1968.
Our faith in our country and our faith in each other is what motivates us and sustains us. However, we acknowledge that our unity in faith needs to be nourished, and deepened. Through our Prayer, Work, and Charity together, many unite among us to become even more perfect. We gather in faith before the Lord, and have come this far as a Nation, not by our own Might, not by our own Power, but by the Guidance, Grace, Protection and Blessing of Our God. Come to us Lord; remain with us and enlighten our Hearts. Guide us by your wisdom; support us by your Power, for you are God.
You desire Justice for all; enable us to uphold the Rights of others. Do not allow us to be misled by Ignorance or Corrupted by fear or favor. Unite us to your self Lord, in a Bond of Love, and Keep us faithful to all that is true. As we gather here today in your name on this great day of Remembrance, may we temper justice with love, so that whether in Life of in Death, we may be pleasing to you.
Today, we honor all of our Veterans, who unselfishly placed their lives on the line for our freedom. These men and women were ordinary people, until they heard the call to duty and answered it. They left their families, homes, and their lives; not for recognition or fame or for the Honor we bestow upon them today. They simply served to protect our country.
As we honor our Veterans, and remember their deeds, let us also salute those who are currently Fighting for our Freedom. The freedom that we enjoy is very special, and that is why we must defend it, and for all of us to continue to protect freedom for many future Generations.
We are Humbled to honor our Veterans today. Let us walk toward tomorrow always grateful, and Honoring them by living Honorably, in the freedom their victories have bought. Bow your Heads for the Blessing!
God of Peace, we pray for those who have served our Nation and have laid down their Lives to Protect and Defend our Freedom. We pray for those who have served, whose bodies are Scarred by War; whose nights may be haunted by memories, too Painful for the light of day. We pray for those who serve us now, especially those in Harm's way. Shield them from danger and bring them home. Turn the Minds and Hearts of our leaders and our enemies to the works of Justice and the Harvest of Peace. May the Peace those who paid the ultimate price have Won for us, be the Peace that Sustains all of us who call this Great Country our home; the United States of America.
And May Almighty God Bless you, The Father, The Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Amen"
John Crane added, " "Thank you, Deacon. For those of you who do not know, Our Lady of Joy has recently created a Military Veterans Ministry. This ministry assists elderly and injured veterans who need a helping hand, fosters connections among veterans, provides and helps connect veterans and their families with the services they need. Carefree Resident and US Navy veteran Mike Wold organizes those programs. He was also instrumental in the creation of the Veterans Memorial in Carefree."
John Crane added, "Thank you, Deacon. For those of you who do not know, Our Lady of Joy has recently created a Military Veterans Ministry. This ministry assists elderly and injured veterans who need a helping hand, fosters connections among veterans, provides and helps connect veterans and their families with the services they need. Carefree Resident and US Navy veteran Mike Wold organizes those programs. He was also instrumental in the creation of the Veterans Memorial in Carefree."
https://vimeo.com/716198723
John Crane then introduced keynote speaker Lt. Col. Bob Jeffery, U.S. Air Force, Retired. "Our keynote speaker, Lt Col Bob Jeffrey, served in the US Air Force from 1960 to 1980. His yearning to fly was sparked by his environment, living in the Los Angeles area surrounded by rich aviation history and activity.
In the early days of his career, Lt Col Jeffrey flew T-37 and T-33 training aircraft followed by the F-102 and F-4 Phantom fighter. In December of 1965, Bob’s Squadron, the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing, was deployed permanently to Ubon Air Base, Thailand for combat operations in North Vietnam.
On December 20, 1965, his aircraft took a direct hit by 57 mm anti-aircraft fire while on a MIG combat air patrol along the North Vietnam/Chinese border. The aircraft disintegrated in a fireball at low altitude. He was miraculously able to eject from the stricken F-4 with his parachute opening a bare 400 feet above the ground. The local militia was already firing at him from the ground when his chute opened. Unfortunately, his Weapon Systems Operator, Lt. George Mims was unable to eject and perished in the aircraft.
Bob was immediately captured and later that evening put in front of a firing squad in an attempt to extract information from him. After a long torturous ride tied up in the back of a truck, Bob found himself in Hanoi at the infamous Hanoi Hilton. He would endure the next 7 years and 3 months at the hands of the North Vietnamese as a POW.
During the course of his distinguished career Lt. Col. Jeffrey received a Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star with V device and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Purple Heart with palm, Meritorious Service Medal, POW Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.
Today you can find Bob at an airport in Chandler providing test flight services and training. Please welcome Lt. Col. Bob Jeffrey. Thank you, Lt Col Jeffrey. It is truly an honor to have you here."
"GOOD MORNING, IT’S GOOD TO BE HERE WITH YOU THIS MORNING. WE HEAR THE WORD 'SACRIFICE' USED A LOT ON MEMORIAL DAY. THOSE OF US WHO HAVE SERVED AS A MEMBER OF THE ARMED FORCES, AND THEIR FAMILIES, TRULY KNOW THE MEANING OF THIS WORD. THEIR LIVES HAVE BEEN A TRIBUTE TO SACRIFICE. THOSE SACRIFICES COME IN MANY FORMS: DEATH, LIFE CHANGING WOUNDS, PTSD, REMOTE TOURS OF DUTY AWAY FROM THEIR FAMILY AND LOVED ONES, POOR LIVING CONDITIONS, LOW PAY, DIMINISHED RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES THAT THE AVERAGE CITIZEN ENJOYS, TO NAME A FEW.
THIS DAY, MEMORIAL DAY, WAS ORIGINALLY CALLED DECORATION DAY. IT WAS INSTITUTED IN 1868 TO HONOR THOSE KILLED IN THE CIVIL WAR BY PLACING DECORATIONS ON THEIR GRAVE SITES. IN 1971, IT OFFICIALLY BECAME MEMORIAL DAY. WE ARE HERE TODAY TO COMMEMORATE THOSE MEN AND WOMEN OF OUR ARMED FORCES WHO HAVE MADE THAT ULTIMATE SACRIFICE IN THE SERVICE OF OUR NATION. SO, ON THIS DAY, WE REMEMBER THEM AND TAKE INSPIRATION IN THEIR SERVICE, IN THEIR SACRIFICES, AND THEIR BRAVE DEEDS THAT HAVE PRESERVED OUR FREEDOMS. WHAT WE TAKE FOR GRANTED EVERY DAY HAS BEEN PAID FOR BY THE BLOOD OF THESE FALLEN HEROES.
THOMAS CAMPBELL, A SCOTTISH POET, SAID “THE PATRIOTS BLOOD IS THE SEED OF FREEDOM’S TREE”. HOW MANY TIMES HAVE OUR ARMED FORCES ANSWERED THE CALL TO DUTY AND SHED THEIR BLOOD IN ORDER TO PRESERVE THE FREE WORLD? THERE ARE 45 VETERANS INTERNED HERE
DUTY: I KNOW THE PRICE OF DUTY. ON DECEMBER 20TH, 1965, DURING THE VIETNAM WAR, I WAS PART A FLIGHT OF F-4C FANTOMS PROTECTING F-105S ATTACKING A RAILROAD BRIDGE ACROSS THE CHINA – NORTH VIETNAM BORDER WHEN MY AIRCRAFT WAS HIT BY INTENSE ANTI-AIRCRAFT FIRE AT LOW ALTITUDE.
MY AIRCRAFT LITERALLY DISINTEGRATED IN A FIREBALL. MY WSO AND I WERE ENGULFED IN FLAMES AS I GAVE THE ORDER TO EJECT FROM THE AIRCRAFT. THE G FORCES WERE SO INTENSE THAT I COULDN’T REACH THE EJECTION SEAT HANDLES ABOVE MY HEAD. I REMEMBER THINKING, 'I’M NOT GOING TO DIE IN THIS AIRCRAFT TODAY'. I WAS ABLE TO GET MY HANDS TOGETHER, AND WITH ALL MY STRENGTH, REACH FOR THE ALTERNATE EJECTION HANDLE ON THE FRONT OF MY SEAT. MY PARACHUTE OPENED AROUND 400 FEET ABOVE THE GROUND, SAVING MY LIFE. UNFORTUNATELY, MY WSO, 1ST LT GEORGE MIMS WAS NOT ABLE TO TO EJECT FROM THE FANTOM. HE DIED THAT DAY IN THE SERVICE OF OUR COUNTRY. HIS WIFE, BEVERLY, NEVER REMARRIED. OVER THE NEXT SEVEN YEARS, AS THE AIR WAR RAGED ON OVERHEAD, I LOST MORE FRIENDS.
MEANWHILE, I HAD BECOME THE PRISONER OF A CRUEL ENEMY. I ALMOST DIED THREE TIMES THAT DAY. EVERYONE IN MY FLIGHT THAT DAY SAID THAT NOBODY COULD HAVE SURVIVED THAT SHOOT DOWN BUT, SOMEHOW, I HAD MANAGED TO EJECT. WHILE IN THE PARACHUTE, THE SOLDIERS ON THE GROUND WERE SHOOTING AT ME WITH SMALL ARMS FIRE BUT ONLY GRAZED MY ANKLE.
THAT NIGHT I WAS PUT IN FRONT OF A FIRING SQUAD AFTER INTERROGATION ATTEMPTS HAD FAILED. THE FIRING SQUAD FIRED OVER MY HEAD. I WAS STILL ALIVE. ONCE IN THE PRISON CAMPS, WE WERE KEPT IN SOLITARY CONFINEMENT OR SMALL GROUPS. WE WERE NOT ALLOWED TO COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER, AND IF CAUGHT, WOULD BE BEATEN OR TORTURED.
HOWEVER, WE DID HAVE WAYS TO COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER VIA TAP/MUTE/MORSE.
AROUND 1970, AN AMAZING THING HAPPENED IN THE PRISON CAMPS OF NORTH VIETNAM. THE WORD SPREAD THROUGH THE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK THAT PEOPLE AT HOME WERE WEARING BRACELETS ENGRAVED WITH OUR NAMES. WE DIDN’T KNOW WHAT TO THINK AT FIRST BUT THIS NEWS CAUSED A GIANT BOOST OF MORALE IN THE DISMAL DEMORALIZING PRISON CAMP ATMOSPHERE. EVENTUALLY, WE DISCOVERED THAT IT WAS AN ATTEMPT ON THE PART OF CITIZEN GROUPS TO SPOTLIGHT THE POWS PLIGHT AND PROTEST OUR MISTREATMENT. IN LIGHT OF THE ANTI-WAR MOVEMENTS TAKING PLACE IN THE U.S., THE BRACELET MOVEMENT CONCERNED THE NORTH VIETNAMESE WHO BELIEVED THAT THIS COULD TURN PUBLIC SENTIMENT AGAINST THEM.
EVENTUALLY, IT DID CAUSE A CHANGE IN OUR LIVING CONDITIONS, REDUCING PHYSICAL PUNISHMENT AND IMPROVING OUR FOOD AND SPARSE MEDICAL TREATMENT. BUT IT WAS THAT ACT OF COMPASSION ON THE PART OF THE INDIVIDUALS WHO CARED ENOUGH TO WEAR THESE BRACELETS THAT IMPROVED OUR LIVES IN THE PRISON CAMPS OF NORTH VIETNAM.
THIS WAS FAR MORE THAN THE U.S. GOVERNMENT HAD ACHIEVED ON OUR BEHALF IN THE PREVIOUS FIVE YEARS. IN SOME CASES, THESE CHANGES SAVED LIVES. THE BRACELETS WERE SOLD THROUGH VIVA AND POW FAMILY ORGANIZATIONS. OVER 5 MILLION WERE SOLD. THE PROTOCOL WAS TO WEAR THE BRACELET UNTIL YOUR POW RETURNED OR WAS KNOWN TO BE DECEASED. WHEN YOUR POW RETURNED, YOU COULD GIVE THE BRACELET TO HIM OR PLACE A ROUND BLUE STICKER WITH A STAR ON IT AND KEEP IT.
WHEN I RETURNED, I AND THE DALLAS CARES ORGANIZATION RECEIVED HUNDREDS OF BRACELETS FOR POWS WHO LIVED IN OUR DALLAS, TX AREA. EVEN TODAY,50 YEARS LATER, I RECEIVE TWO OR THREE BRACELETS A YEAR. THEY ARE USUALLY ACCOMPANIED BY A LETTER OF APPRECIATION AND WELCOME HOME WISHES. MANY LASTING RELATIONSHIPS WERE BORN WHEN POWS AND THEIR BRACELET WEARER WERE UNITED. IN A WAY,THESE BRACELETS HAD BECOME A MEMORIAL TO THE MAN NAMED ON IT WHETHER HE RETURNED HOME OR NOT.
THIS DAY IS NOT ONLY TO HONOR THE FALLEN BUT A REMINDER FOR US TO EXPRESS OUR APPRECIATION FOR THOSE WHO SERVE TODAY. WHEN YOU SEE MEMBERS OF OUR ARMED FORCES IN UNIFORM, PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO SHOW YOUR APPRECIATION FOR THEIR SERVICE. BELIEVE ME IT'S WELL TAKEN.
I WISH YOU ALL A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN FREEDOM. PLEASE, ALWAYS REMEMBER WHAT OUR FALLEN HEROES HAVE SACRIFICED ON OUR BEHALF AND WHAT THOSE WHO SERVE TODAY MUST DO TO PRESERVE THAT FREEDOM IN THE FUTURE. GOD BLESS YOU AND GOD BLESS AMERICA. THANK YOU."
https://vimeo.com/716234110
"During the Vietnam War, Many Americans wore POW and MIA bracelets keeping our POWs and MIAs in the front of mind. With us this morning we have two guests who each wore a bracelet during these times. First, it is my pleasure to introduce Carefree resident, Betsy Lynn. She not only a wore bracelet in the 1970’s, but she also organizes the wreath and flowers at the base of the Veterans Memorial in Carefree every Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Following Betsy Lynn, Barbara Hatch, the founder of the Veterans Heritage Project will tell her bracelet story. Please welcome Betsy Lynn."
"Thank you John.
When I was in high school I was given this simple silver bracelet. Major Samuel Toomey III was engraved on it, and the date November-30-1968. I had no other details about the Major. I wore the bracelet as a reminder of him and all the Servicemen that were missing or prisoners of war in Vietnam.
I held on to the bracelet after the end of the Vietnam War, and thought about the missing 33 year old Major every time I saw it, never sure if I would find out his fate but hoping he had made it home safe. I checked the internet over the years but learned little information about “my missing soldier”. Recently I searched again and found much more detail.
On the last day of November 1968 Major Toomey was on a Special Forces mission in Laos with an eight man team when his helicopter was fired on, hit, and went down. All on board were presumed dead based on eyewitness accounts, but the wreckage was obscured by dense jungle, and was unreachable for confirmation. All were listed as Missing in Action. In March 1989, twenty one years later, remains from the crash were recovered, and positive identification of Major Toomey was made eleven months later. He is now interred in Arlington Cemetery, and his name is inscribed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the Washington Mall.
At last I knew the fate of the Major, saw his photo and learned he was from Independence, Missouri. I appreciated his Army service record and had the details of what happened that terrible day in November 1968. It was more than just facts. It felt personal because of 50 years I had with his bracelet.
Curious, I researched the bracelets further and learned that in 1970 two college women founded Voices in Vital America (or VIVA) and began distributing bracelets to increase the public awareness of the 35 hundred troops classified as missing or prisoners in Vietnam. The Media caught wind of the VIVA’s mission and broadcast information about the bracelets and they took off. Requests for bracelets grew to 12,000 a day, and over 5 million bracelets were distributed in 5 and a half years. VIVA stopped making bracelets in ’76, but M I A and P O W groups continue to produce the bracelets.
People wore their bracelets until the soldier returned to the USA. They were often given to the soldier or his surviving family, or were left at the base of a memorial once the soldier’s fate was known. Remains continue to be identified as forensic techniques improve and the Internet is filled with information about the soldiers commemorated on these bracelets.
Here is Barbara Hatch with an amazing story of her recent experience with her bracelet."
Barbara Hatch shared her bracelet story. "My boyfriend was in Vietnam in 1970. I attended Loyola University in Chicago. I bought this bracelet to support the POWs. I probably chose this one-PFC Arthur C. Ramirez, 12.6.50, Korea, AZ (she held up her arm with the bracelet) because that's the year I was born. Teaching took me to Senegal, Iran, and the Virgin Islands for the next 17 years. The bracelet was tucked away with the rest of my jewelry.
Bob's jar of bracelets, returned to him in 1973, when he was liberated, inspired me to return my bracelet to PFC Ramirez's family. But where to start?
Two months after the interview with Bob, an article in the Arizona Daily Star by Carmen Duarte told me that of the 53 sets of remains sent back from North Korea in 2018, Pvt. Ramirez was among them. He would be interred in the Marana Cemetery on March 19, 2020. I could return the bracelet. Covid had other plans. The service was closed to all but family.
Planning for today's tribute to POWs and MIAs, I reached out to the reporter. Did she have a family name for Pvt. Ramirez? Finally, a connection. Armando Rubalcaba, Capitola, California. Whitepages.com gave me a possible address. A letter. A text from Armando, telling me he had worn his own POW bracelet for 2-1/2 years while he served in Vietnam. He connected me to his cousin Arthur. A phone call last week informed me that Arthur's only brother had passed away two days before. Like his father, now he too had lost a brother because he never thought his uncle's remains would be returned, the bracelet would bring him joy. He was named after his uncle but had never met him.
A few days later, another call from another cousin, Angie Lopez, in Tucson. She and her grandson will meet me in Marana in June to pay respects to the soldier who lost his life near the Chosin Reservoir on his 19th birthday, December 6, 1950, while serving as an artilleryman with the 57th Field Artillery. She can hold the bracelet before I send it to her cousin Arthur. We will have lunch at the Feedlot Cafe and "add another chapter to her uncle's life story her grandson can tell his children.
All because of a bracelet and a determination 52 years later to put a face with the name engraved on it: PFC Arthur C. Ramirez, 12.6.50, Korea, AZ."
https://vimeo.com/716247358
John Crane thanked Betsy and Barbara for sharing their bracelet stories and the meaning those bracelets had to those who served, their families and themselves.
"Please welcome back the exceptionally talented Charli Carollo and Annalyn Abraham as they sing ‘America the Beautiful.’
As you go about the rest of your day surrounded by family and friends and as you move forward in life, keep in your minds and hearts the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for us.
I encourage you to stop by the Veterans Memorial in the Carefree Desert Gardens and pay your respects. At the base of the Memorial is a beautiful wreath and flowers to commemorate this solemn day. Remember those who gave dearly to serve our country to protect our liberty, for this is the true meaning of Memorial Day. Say a prayer for them and thank God for what they have done for you."
TAPS was played and the Colors were retrieved.
"Thank you again for joining us."
https://vimeo.com/716268854
Lt. to rt.: Barbara Hatch, Lt. Col. Bob Jeffery, Vice Mayor John Crane, Mayor Les Peterson
Photo by Herbert Hitchon
A link with all the stills shots and videos can be viewed in this Wednesday's Letters from Readers, Pictures of the Week.
Lyn Hitchon
Prepared by Carefree Truth
Copyrighted
Visit our website at www.carefreetruth2.com If you know anyone who would like to be added to the Carefree Truth email list, please have them contact me. Feel free to share Carefree Truth with others on your list.
Visit www.carefreeazbusinesses.com to see more info about businesses in Carefree. Please support our merchants.
Photo by Herbert Hitchon
A link with all the stills shots and videos can be viewed in this Wednesday's Letters from Readers, Pictures of the Week.
Lyn Hitchon
Prepared by Carefree Truth
Copyrighted
Visit our website at www.carefreetruth2.com If you know anyone who would like to be added to the Carefree Truth email list, please have them contact me. Feel free to share Carefree Truth with others on your list.
Visit www.carefreeazbusinesses.com to see more info about businesses in Carefree. Please support our merchants.