Missing in Action

Memorial Day in my family is considered to be one of the biggest holidays that we celebrate. Each year, my grandma's family gathers to celebrate the memory of her brother, my great-uncle, who died in Vietnam. When I was younger, I really didn't understand the significance of the holiday; but as I've grown older, I have come to realize how his story has impacted my American Creed. 

My grandma was one of eleven kids: William, Larry, Jean, David, Paula, Chris, Gayle, Rick, Lauretta, Betsy, and Geoff. When the Vietnam War was happening, my great-uncle David was just out of high school. Knowing that he would either be drafted or have to enlist, he enlisted out of the VFW Post in Avon and started basic military training. Although he achieved high status within the Marines, his time in Vietnam was short-lived. In February of 1968, my grandma's family received a notice that their brother, David was "missing in action" after an attack on Valentine's Day. A week later, my family was notified of the events of his death but his body was still missing. They found his dog tags in March of that year. 

They buried him in a local cemetery where we now go to celebrate his memory every year. There are many things throughout Avon that are dedicated to him such as a memorial behind their post office, a street, and they even renamed the VFW Hall where he enlisted as the David F. Schneider Avon-Avon Lake Post. The hall is one of the many places where my family goes to celebrate him. 

Growing up with his story and going to the memorials every year, has shaped my American Creed to what it is today; one of courage, determination, selflessness and loyalty. My great-uncle showed these values throughout his life. He was courageous for not only enlisting but joining the military as a whole, as that is something that many people have worries about. He was determined. David received many injuries before his death, but nothing stopped him from continuing to fight. He showed selflessness, not only by putting his life on the line for the country, but he was to his siblings as well- placing others before himself. Finally, he was loyal to his comrades- making many memories that some of them still share with the family today at his services. 

Despite never meeting him, my Great-Uncle David has impacted my American Creed through his service in Vietnam and the many stories that have been passed down by my grandma and her siblings. Keeping his memory alive is something of importance, not only as a familial standpoint, but as a reminder of our country's history and how it impacts our views today.