My daughters and I have often wondered how Echo managed to survive through his childhood, adolescence, teens and Vietnam (especially when we can only find one guy alive from his unit). I have always said that God held him together to meet me. We know there wasn't any family "looking out" for him. Two tours (total 30 months) in Vietnam, getting injured and sent back, then being listed as MIA because your unit is left in Cambodia and the military suspends all air support and communication after the President announces we are NOT in Cambodia (or was it Laos).... pretty normal for his life actually. Those of you who know him will understand. Oh, did I mention his dad upon getting an MIA notice running to his local bank and cashing in all Echo's military savings bonds. He was MIA for 3 days before the next notification arrived. Not nice to speak evil of the deceased. Sorry, let a bit of negativity get out. On a better note, I am going to share a letter from Echo's facebook page. We finally have the answer as to how he survived.
Sher Stratos Goldesberry:
Hello to you and yours Echo!
I don't expect you to remember me, but my sister, Kathy, and I have not, and will not ever forget you! My name is Sheryl, and when we both lived in Concord, you were my very first boyfriend! My sister Kathy and I have prayerfully hoped that you made it through the war, and have had a blessed life ... we've been to the Jensen Family Adventure Blog, and viewed photos of you, your beautiful wife, and family; Kathy and I rejoice in knowing our prayers for you were answered long ago! I want to thank you for serving our country, and I want to apologize for not being able to grasp just what the war would be for you, and your brothers in arms. Kathy and I have a "Bucket List", and you, Echo, have always been at the top of the list ... you can't know how many years we've searched for you, so we could say to you, thank you, Echo, we love you, and are honored to have known you. God Bless You and Yours!
How awesome! Echo really had people who cared and the sister Kathie even wrote him while in the service. It makes my heart sing to know there are people who have compassion for others without reservation. My thanks to them for helping my husband survive an awful childhood.
2 comments:
I, too, appreciate Echo's sacrifices during the Viet Name war - it was hell and continues to be for so many of our brave soldiers. What a blessing that those gals were praying for him all along. Love you Echo, Barbee
makes me cry.
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