It was quite a busy morning at the site of what "Vietnam Magazine" entitled the "Nightmare Battle of Nhi Ha". And May 2-16, 1968, that's what it was...and remains so. The focus of this post, however, involves today's memorial tribute to Terri Chapdelaine, who passed away Feb 17, 2017. Terri, friend and supporter of our Vietnam effort, had recently retired from her rural Buckland, Alaska schoolteacher position and relocated to her beloved Maine. Her untimely death at age 61 was a shock to all who knew this caring, unselfish person. To me, doing something special for the children of Vietnam seemed like a fitting tribute. So, on this sweltering hot Vietnam morning, 1,250 much-needed writing tablets were distributed to the 250 students at Nhi Ha Elementary school. Prior to distribution, though, the assembled students were given an introduction to Terri, including her schoolteacher history and love for children. Each student came forward singly, received five tablets, and expressed gratitude. Those kids are so darned cute. A banner honoring Terri, situated above the point of distribution, greeted each student. It was just positively amazing. Being in a position to perform such humanitarian service is rewarding beyond description. A huge "thank you" goes out to all who contribute, thereby allowing me such an honor.
Neil
Neil
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