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LETTERS AND NOTES FROM THOSE THAT WEAR
THE BRACELETS: |
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From: "Robb and Shelly Ellermeier"
<sellerme@curtis-ne.com> Date: Sat, 1 Jan 2005 21:52:01 -0600
To the family of Col.
Robert F. Wilke,
I know the chances of you reading this are
slim but I just wanted you to know that I have not forgotten him.
I was born on the day that Robert's plane went down. I wear his
bracelet on that day to honor him as well as holidays and his birthday
Sept 14th. The rest of the days it sits on an angel bear in my
home and I light a candle for him every night until he comes home.
I pray for him and for you his family. I am hoping that someday I
can meet you or at least contact you in some way to let you know that I
have not forgotten him.
Sincerely, Shelly Ellermeier
sellerme@curtis-ne.com
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From: "Velhagen" <velhagen@onlinehome.de> Subject: Found Zippo with engraving Refno: 1318 Date: Sun, 16 Jan 2005 16:37:33 +0100
Hy,
I'm writing from germany.
Found a Zippo with the following words:
Front:
A round Logo from "Midland National Life" in Watertown,
So.Dak.
and a graving:
Presented by "El" Goebel representing
On the back:
Sgt. Simpson
James E.
US Army
This lighter, like your "Midland" insurance policy, is
guaranteed for life.
Hope it's interesting for you.
Bichel
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Date: Thu, 20 Jan 2005 14:38:35 -0800 (PST) From: Richard Wilcox <jontxlawdog@sbcglobal.net>
I wear my pow bracelet ever day.
SMS JOHN Q ADAMS is remembered
everyday.
I had the honor of explaining what is was and why I wore it to a 20
year old at a gas station.
I will wear it until he is home
jon wilcox
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From: "razooo" <razooo@comcast.net> Date: Fri, 21 Jan 2005 15:33:36 -0600
To the family of Lt.
Michael Edward Dunn:
This is to inform you that I have had a
bracelet with Michael's name for years. When I had learned his remains
where found and returned I was extremely glad for the members of the
family so that closure could finally be reached. I was torn as to what
to do with the bracelet as I wanted the family to know he was not
forgotten during the past years. My internet was to go to the wall and
leave it but being I was not that far from Naperville, I thought the
honor of putting it on his local grave was more fitting. If you feel I
could have the honor of doing that, please fell free to contact me
with the location of where he was laid to final rest and I will not
bother you. Thank you and it has been an honor to wear this bracelet
in the past. God bless us all.
Thank you, Dennis Rasinski. email: razooo@comcast.net. |
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From: "Lori Ward" <loriward@qconline.com> Date: Sat, 22 Jan 2005 11:55:12 -0600 To
the family of Rick
E. Medaris; My
name is Lori Ward, and as a young teenager, I sent away for a POW/MIA
bracelet and received one for Spec. 5 Rick E. Medaris.
I prayed for Rick and his family, and took the bracelet off and
on so many times it eventually broke in two.
I wondered through the years whatever happened to him, and
prayed for peace for his family.
I came across the bracelet in my jewelry box recently and
decided to do an Internet search for him.
During this search, I found that the helicopter he was a
passenger on crashed, and that there were no survivors.
It saddened me, for I somehow felt attached to him and his
family. I am glad that he
has ‘come home’, and wish the family peace and healing more each
day. Mere
words are inadequate to express my appreciation for the men and women
who serve our country to protect our freedom.
My father was on the front lines during the Battle of The
Bulge, while leaving my mother and three sisters home.
He was one of the few men in his company that returned home
alive. I appreciate what
has been and is being done to preserve the freedom that so many
Americans take for granted. Thank
you, Rick, for being one of the proud and few!! If
a member of the family would like to have this bracelet, I would
gladly mail it to them. If
not, I will leave it at the Memorial Wall if and when I am able to go
there. I want his family
to know that God promises us hope, and a resurrected life.
I imagine Rick in heaven, at peace and happy ~ joyfully waiting
to be reunited with you who have loved him so much!
If you ever get a chance to listen to the song, “I Can Only
Imagine” by Mercy Me, it describes what it might be like to enter
Heaven’s Gates. I
wanted to write this Love Letter to let you know that people who never
even met Rick loved him and prayed for him.
I pray that this letter blesses you and finds you at peace.
Sincerely,
Lori
Ward loriward@qconline.com |
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From: "Lily Clark"
<c/o info@pownetwork.org> Subject: Capt. Richard L. Butt Date: Sun, 23 Jan 2005 21:24:37 -0700
Dear Friends -
I'd like to thank you for this website. I was
about 11 or 12 when I bought my POW-MIA bracelet in the early '70's.
My soldier was Capt. Richard L. Butt. I wore his bracelet for
years, never taking it off, and saying a prayer for him every night.
I lost it one day when I took a bad fall, and didn't realize it was
gone until much later. I went back as soon as I could to try
to find it, but no luck. I never forgot him though, and I've
prayed for him over the years.
For some reason, I started wondering about him again,
and decided to do a google search on his name, and found his bio on
your site. I'd always hoped that he returned from Vietnam, so
I'm sad to learn he lost his life there. I will continue
praying for Capt. Butt, and all the POWs-MIAs - both those accounted
for, and those not yet accounted for.
Bless you all!
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From: "bad url" <badurl@hotmail.com> Subject: Capt. James Jefferson 5-12-67 Date: Mon, 24 Jan 2005 10:02:14 +0000
I'm so grateful to have found this site.
When I first put on the bracelet, I could have been Capt.
Jefferson's younger sister and now I remove it old enough to be his
mother. After all these years of wondering I've learned Captain
Jefferson's remains were returned in 2000. I've also had the
opportunity to read his bio and see his picture. I've wanted to
do that for more than 33 years but it feels as though the wind was
knocked out of me.
This is a powerful moment and it's too much for words because I know
what I write just won't, can't be enough. Thank you, Capt.
Jefferson. You have been one of my heroes, you will always be
one of my heroes. I wish it could have been different.
If one of Capt. Jefferson's relatives would like to contact me about
my bracelet, please email me.
God bless everyone. God bless the U.S.A.
R.Z.
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Date: Thu, 27 Jan 2005 23:44:23 -0800 (PST) From: BONNIE PHILLIPS <manyowls2000@yahoo.com>
HI MY NAME IS RAYMOND G. PHILLIPS JR.
I HAVE BEEN WEARING THE POW/MIA BRACLET OF KENNETH
H. WIDON FOR 15 YEARS. I HAVE JUST COME ACROSS THE WEB SITE
OF THE POW/MIA'S. I HAVE FOUND OUT FROM THIS PAGE THAT KENNETH HAS
RETURNED HOME. I WOULD LIKE TO RETURN HIS BRACLET TO THE FAMILY OR
PLEASE TELL ME WHAT I SHOULD DO WITH IT.YOU CAN E-MAIL ME AT MANYOWLS2000@YAHO.COM
.MAY GOD BLESS ALL THE FAMILIES OF THE POW/MIA'S AND GIVE THEM
COMFORT.
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Date: Fri, 28 Jan 2005 23:15:42 -0700 From: "James, Barbie" <Barbie.James@klcorp.com> My daughter was going through some of my jewelry and found my POW bracelet. She is now wearing that bracelet in honor of Maj. Don Lyon. Barbie James |
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From: "cristiano" <cris25@interfree.it> Date: Sat, 29 Jan 2005 13:20:39 +0100
Hi my name is Cristian. I wrote from Italy
I have been wearing Keith Matt's
Maupin bracelet for a three weeks and four month
now. I wearing this Matt's bracelet war for him and his family.
I wrote from Italy I have been wearing.
I hope he' ll come
early home safely.
ITALY florence Cris
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From: "Chris Shield" <btnshield@charter.net> Date: Fri, 4 Feb 2005 16:10:13 -0800
To the loved ones of Major
Bruce Johnson, missing 6-10-65. I ashamed to say I
can't remember exactly when I obtained my bracelet. I do know
that I "lived" in it until it started to crack in half, at
that point I tucked it into a drawer. Needless to say I've had
it for about 40 years now and have always wondered if he was ever
reunited with his family. We recently moved and again I ran
across the bracelet, realizing I just couldn't dispose of it.
Our youngest daughter is once again living with us and was looking
through the dresser drawer where I've kept it all these years.
She put it "ON" the dresser, along side a pretty vase, as if
she was displaying it. She's away on a trip now, but as soon as
she gets home I'd want to find out what was going through her head
when she saw it. Does she even know what it's all about?
If not, I'm certainly going to tell her. I'd would love to have
a new one, yes after all this time, but not sure how to go about it.
I'm going to do more searching on this website and I'm sure it will
tell me where to go from here. For Bruce and his family, I will
never forget him, his name has stuck in my brain all these years.
I wore his bracket for at least 20 years.
With love and much admiration to Bruce and
his family.
Susie Shield
Nipomo, California
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From: "Billy Chaffin II"
<bjchaffin2@verizon.net> Subject: Maj Charles E. Finney USMC 3-17-69 Date: Thu, 10 Feb 2005 22:17:36 -0500
To the family of Charles
E. Finney
I've started
wearing this bracelet back in the summer of 1998. I'm sorry that I
hadn't check the sites in a while. I was sad to learn that only
Charles remains returned. My family has one MIA from WWII. He is my
uncle. My father speaks of him often. I will continue to wear this
bracelet as always. I will fly the MIA/POW flag, in the yard, on my
car. I will encourage others to do the same. I hope that you have
found peace. I wish the I could say more, something that could bring
solace, make since of it all, especially now considering what's
happening in our country and the world. I am truly sorry for your
lose.
yours very truly
Billy Chaffin II
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Feb 2005 This is Lt. Col. Henry Paul Brauner's Eldest Daughter, Cynthia Lyn Waldmann. I copied this ladies letter from your website, for the purpose of giving you exact information below. At this website is my letter in Honor of my Dad, photo attached. I tried contacting this lady once & my letter was rejected, or it bounced, or something. Anyway it didn't go through. So, please can you contact this lady & forward my letter to her. Sincerely, Cyndi P.S. The website where my Letter in Honor Of my dad is: http://www.virtualwall.org/db/BraunerHP01a.htm Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2001 12:34:57 EDT From: BarbieDoll1941@aol.com I am looking to return bracelets to the familys of the 2 men below can u help me,,,,,,,, Brauner, Henry Paul, NJ USAF MIA 3=29=72 ...... |
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From: "Terry" <Lera213@charter.net> Date: Fri, 11 Feb 2005 22:31:53 -0700
To the family of SMS
Jacob E. Mercer, USAF.
Jacob has been in my heart for years.
I have worn his bracelet for 19 years. I found out that his
remains were identified in 1994, but I still to this day wear his
bracelet.
Thank you for his service, for this is one
person who will never forget.
God Bless.
Terry Geary
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From: "Nanette Chopin Cook" <lcnccook@msn.com> Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 13:22:32 -0600
I am writing this to the family of Major
Ernest Olds who was shot down in 1968 in Vietnam or Laos.
I no longer have his bracelet, but wore it for many a year.
I worked for the government at Kelly AFB, Texas from 1966 and remained
with the government until 1999. I have always wondered about
Major Olds, and today (now retired and spending the winter in Tucson,
AZ) after seeing a documentary (probably the 5th time) on the POW's
from Vietnam War, again I began to wonder about Major Olds. I am
so very sorry to see that he is one of the 2,031 missing in action.
May God continue to protect his soul, and bless his family.
I have searched this site again and see that in 1996, Major Ernest
Arthur Olds' remains were recovered. May God Bless and Keep his
family forever, and thank you for your sacrifice.
Nanette Chopin Cook
La Vernia, Texas
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Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 11:58:38 -0500 From: daniel <dankofc@optonline.net> Subject: ADRC Robert Sennett
I have a copper bracelet from the Vietnam War with the name ARDC
Robert Sennett missing since 1-22-66. I was 21 years of age when I
received it. I'm going to be 60 this coming March. I could not enter
the military due to congenital heart decease and it always bothered
me that I was unable to serve my country. I did the next best thing
I always supported our men and women in the armed services and used
to get into a lot of arguments with people over the Vietnam War. I
always defended the honor of all our Armed Forces in Vietnam. In my
small way I felt by defending and supporting our soldiers that I
became part of the service I could not join.
I would like to know the outcome of this man's life. How tall was
he? Did he like sports? Was he engaged or married? Is he alive or
dead? I look at that bracelet often and wonder, who are you and may
God bless you for giving of your precious life to defend all of us
here in this great United States. It was because of men and women
like you throughout our great history that we are able to be free to
say and do whatever we please. No country in the world enjoys this
freedom more than us. Freedom costs and unfortunately its our young
that have to make the sacrifice to keep this the Greatest Nation on
the face of the earth.
I do hope I can find out through your web site the fate of this man.
Even though I never met him I will never forget him.
Dan
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Date: Fri, 18 Feb 2005 14:59:12 -0800 (PST) From: laura Eckenroad <leckenroad@yahoo.com>
I AM WRITING TO TELL YOU THAT I HAVE A BRACELET WITH
LCDR HARRY EDWARDS, JR.
10-20-66.
I KNOW THAT HIS REMAINS HAVE RETURNED HOME. I WANT TO
TELL YOU I WORE THIS BRACELET EVERY DAY FOR MANY
YEARS. HE WAS NEVER FORGOTTEN AS MANY OF THE MIA/POWS
WERE NEVER FORGOTTEN. THANK YOU TO EACH OF THE
FAMILIES FOR EVERYTHING THEIR SONS WENT THROUGH FOR
OUR COUNTRY.
IF I GET A CHANCE I WILL RETURN THE BRACELET TO THE
WALL OR JUST HOLD ON TO IT. BUT PLEASE REMEMBER HE
WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
LAURA
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From: TM120@aol.com Date: Sat, 19 Feb 2005 18:12:18 EST Subject: clifford acree
Hoping this email can find its way to clifford acree, as my grand
father Howard acree had this last name, noting that there are
not that many people with the last name acree, just wondering what his
roots are and if he knows if any of his people are from the hills Kentucky,
feel free to email me back with any news of this question. I
also strongly support you and your lawsuit if it comes to that goes
well and you are compensated for your treatment while captive,
Tom Martin, Winchester KY.
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From: Huck3400@aol.com Date: Sun, 20 Feb 2005 21:52:15 EST
I just found your web site today. I have a bracelet that I wore
through high school for Capt.
Darrel Pyle, USAF.
I found out today by reading a letter on your site that Capt. Pyle was
killed in a plane crash after he returned home but that he was survived
by a wife and son. I would like to return my bracelet to his family and
tell them how much I appreciate their sacrifice. Capt. Pyle was in
my prayers while I wore that bracelet and I am so glad that he made it
home to spend time with his family before he was killed. My hope is that
they will read this letter and contact me so I can send them the
bracelet.
Lynn Able
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From: Bett347@aol.com Date: Sun, 20 Feb 2005 21:23:32 EST Subject: LT. DONALD M. KLEMM
I have a bracelet with Lt.
Col. Donald Klemm's
name (6-11-67)that I got in the 1970's. I wore it for
years and years, prayed for him and wondered so many times if he made it
home safely. After finding your website, now I know he was one of
the brave ones who gave his life. I eventually tucked the
bracelet away in my jewelry box where it remains today.
I would like his family to know that the bracelet has a
special place in my jewelry box and in my heart.
Betty Harding
Birmingham, AL
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Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2005 17:09:44 -0800 From: BARB LICHTMAN <mothermoogs@cox.net> This is a letter that hopefully, the family of LAWRENCE TATUM will read. My name is Barbara and I have had the bracelet of Lt. Col. Lawrence Tatum since I was 16 years old. The date on the bracelet is 9-10-66-a few months after I turned 16. The bracelet broke some years ago between the "W" and "R" in his name, Lawrence. I have often wondered how I could return the bracelet to his family if need be and if they wanted it. Finally today I made up mind to find out. My e-mail address is mothermoogs@cox,net if there is anybody who would like to contact me about it. God Bless! |
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From: "Kathy Moss" <mosska1972@hotmail.com> Subject: POW Bracelet--Capt. David Smith 3-16-69 Date: Sun, 27 Feb 2005 01:49:57 +0000
February 26,2005
To the family of : Capt.
David Smith,
I acquired a POW
bracelet sometime around 1972,the year I married. I was 18 at the
time and now I am 51 and married for 32 years. My husband is a
Vietnam Veteran and was wounded February 23,1969. I chose Capt.
David Smith 3-16-69 because my
maiden name was Smith and his POW/MIA date was close to the date
that my husband was wounded by a" satchel charge". I wore
my POW bracelet for many years and remembered Capt. David Smith's
name in my heart all these years. The bracelet is displayed so
that I am reminded of him everyday. Today I found the bio site
and read the account of his crash. I pray that someday the
remains of all POW/MIAs will be returned home. Regardless, there
will be a HOMECOMING and REUNION when families/friends are reunited
in Heaven. What a day that will be! Until then,I pray that God
will give peace to all.
Sincerely,
Kathy Moss
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From: "Anthony Azzante"
<aazzante34@hotmail.com> Date: Sun, 27 Feb 2005 00:10:47 -0600
To the family of Col.
Lawrence B Tatum,
I have been wearing the Colonel's
bracelet for about a year and a half now, and I want his family to
know that I carry his name on forever. I too am serving this great
country in the Air Force, and there is never a second that I do not
thank the Colonel for his great service, and risks. I will continue to
wear his name on my wrist until he returns home to his loving
family.
Best Wishes
Anthony Azzante, A1C, USAF
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From: "The Harlan Family"
<harlanx4@charter.net> Date: Sun, 27 Feb 2005 17:23:48 -0700 This is for the family of SSgt Mark J. Schmauss. My name is Aaron Harlan. I am currently a SSgt in the USAF. I enlisted in 1991. While in tech school at Sheppard AFB, TX I bought and wore SSgt Schmauss’s MIA bracelet (red one). After training there I had more training at Chanute AFB, IL. While shopping there at the exchange I stumbled across his KIA bracelet (black one). Though I wish not to reopen any wounds that might have healed, I would like to let the family members know I still have these bracelets. I believe his remains have been returned so I am offering to return them to the rightful family members. My sincerest condolences go out to the family members. SSgt Schmauss gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country and should always be remembered. If you would like them please let me know and I will gladly return them to you. You may contact me at harlanx4@charter.net. Sincerely Aaron Harlan |
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From: "bs-h-knights" <bs-h-knights@msn.com> Date: Sat, 5 Mar 2005 11:48:50 -0500 To the Family of Capt. Robert C. Edmunds, Jr., I have his MIA bracelet and would be willing to send it to you if you would like it. I had it when I was a teenager and have kept it all these years. I was saddened to see his remains were returned. Please e-mail me your mailing address if you are interested in having his bracelet back. Sincerely, Glennis Pleasants Bs-h-knights@msn.com |
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From: Rosewolff1@aol.com Date: Fri, 4 Mar 2005 22:38:39 EST Subject: Peter R Cressman
I was in my teens when i received his braclet. I got it at the Florida
State fair. i had it in till a friend stole it. i never for got
though. there was a article in the newspaper about peter i contacted
his brother and talked to him and told him that even though the
braclet was stolen that i have never forgot. I know that he died
fighting for his brother to be found. i would like to know if there is
any family members out there for Peter. I would love to let them know
that i think about peter everyday. Please if there is any one out
there please feel free to contact me at rosewolff1@aol.com.
in the subject box please write peter cressman so i know ito open it.
Susan Wolff
Florida
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From: N324@aol.com Date: Sat, 5 Mar 2005 16:30:14 EST
To the family and friends of Cpt. Mitchell S.
Lane MIA 1-4-69
I am writing this letter to you to let you know that I have a photo of
Cpt. Lane after he was listed as MIA. I believe his mom sent it
to me after I received his bracelet. I just wanted you to know
that the photo is in great condition even though I wore the bracelet
out.
If you would like me to e-mail you a copy of the picture I would be
more than happy to do so. I am now the proud mom of one son who
is a Cpt. in the Army deployed to Iraq and a daughter who is A1C in
the AF stationed in Omaha.
You loved one will never be forgotten .
Sincerely,
Nancy (Smith) Cole-Caputo
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From: BPlmSprngs@aol.com Date: Sun, 20 Mar 2005 13:22:00 EST
My name is Betty Snyder and I am writing to the family of James
Hardin Metz.
I have had the bracelet with his name on it since they were first made
in the early 70's. I was 26 years old and am now 60 and I still have
his bracelet.
I was not aware of this website until today and was saddened by the
news that Jim's remains were returned March 18,1977 but by the same
token felt a sense of closure.
Jim has been a part of my life for more than 30 years and I would feel
lost without his bracelet. The only time I would be willing to part
with it would be if his family would like to have it and then I would
be honored to part with it.
Please e-mail me at ariestheram44@aol.com
God Bless you and Jim.
Betty
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From: Venice714@aol.com Date: Tue, 22 Mar 2005 20:38:28 EST
Hi,
I have a bracelet with the name Spec.
5 Joseph Puggi
2-2-68. I was trying to reach a family member, Tom Puggi who was listed
as someone who wanted the bracelet but his email on the site is wrong. I
was wondering if you knew anything that would help me to get in touch
with the family of Joseph. I have had the bracelet since 1970. It is
broken in half. I wore it for many years, until it fell apart one day. I
want his family to have the bracelet if they would like to have it.
Thank you,
Carolynn Hilsinger
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From: KDLHATCH@aol.com Date: Fri, 25 Mar 2005 02:54:14 EST
For the family of Arthur
Edward McLeod
I found a bracelet with Arthur's name on it at
the bottom of Lake George NY while scuba diving,15 years ago. I would
pull it out every Feb. 12th in his honor. I put it on for my 50th
birthday for Arthur. While wearing it I started to research and found
like his bracelet Arthur wa found and returned home.
Arthur went missing 2-12-1971
returned 7-28-1997
ID'd 8-6-1999
I would like to pass it on to one of his
family members so they can show that he will be in our hearts forever.
I believe that I found the bracelet for a reason, and I think it was
to pass it on.
PS My brother was drafted the same year
Arthur went missing, and I would like to know someone thought enough
of him to contact me. God Bless
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Date: Fri, 25 Mar 2005 20:52:42 -0800 (PST) From: Robert Bartley <sectreas866@yahoo.com> Subject: CDR David Scott Greiling
My name is Robert J Bartley Jr. I am a Waltham Massachusetts Fire
Fighter. On June 24th 1982 I returned home from the USS America after
serving for three years. I went to the wall soon after and purchased a
bracelet. As it turned out the Bracelet I got was a shipmate off the
USS America. I was not looking for a shipmates bracelet. I put the
bracelet on and soon after I made the bracelet into a dogtag. I have
worn that dogtag with David's name and the date 07-24-68 for 22 years
now. On 9-11-01 cowards attacked New york city. 343 of America's
Bravest died saving over 25 thousand people. These acts by Cops and
Fire Fighter in N.Y. were and still are the single greatest rescues in
our history. I added another dogtag to my chain. Edward
"Teddy" White III 9-11-01. He was one of the 343 Fire
Fighters that gave his life on 9-11. The reason I am writing is I want
you to know David will never be forgotten. My 7 year old daughter has
told me she wants to wear the chain someday. I will explain to her the
importance of this chain.
Today is march 25th. This is David's birthday. Someone will
allways remember. Thank you very much.
Robert J Bartley Jr
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From: Kayte4bama@aol.com Date: Sat, 26 Mar 2005 21:44:10 EST Subject: SFC Norman Payne USSF
I
am writing the family of SFC Norman Payne USSF. Your family has
been on my mind recently after the death of my husband. I have
the metal POW bracelet with Norman's information. I would like
to continue to remember Noramn and wear my bracelet but time has made
my bracelet very fragile. I would like to hear from you and
would appreciate any information you could give me on Norman. I
would be willing to return the bracelet to you if would like it.
Please respond if you read this and please know my prayers are with
all of you. God Bless You.
Patricia
Benson
Collinsville,
Ms.
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Date: Mon, 28 Mar 2005 16:43:50 -0500 From: <feulnesa@jmu.edu>
Dear Family of Captian John T. West;
My name is Stephanie Feulner, and I am a student at James Madison University. My mother used to wear the POW/MIA
bracelet in John's name every day until she gave it to me after
I expressed my deep pain for the soldiers over in Iraq
in a local newspaper. Now, I wear John's bracelet every single
day to remember not only him as an individual, but to
also remember all the men and women we are needlessly losing in Iraq.
Not many college kids are wearing POW bracelets, so almost every day someone comes up to me to ask who John is. I
explain to them, and I also explain why I am wearing it. I think
wearing the bracelet is a wonderful way to open up
discussion about war and what it truly means to everyone involved.
My heart literally hurts for all the families of loved ones who have lost their lives in any war.
Please contact me: feulnesa@jmu.edu
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From: "casaderoberts" <casaderoberts@cox.net> Date: Thu, 31 Mar 2005 21:36:23 -0800
To the Family of Maj
Lawrence T. Holland, USAF:
It has been my honor to proudly wear Maj
Holland's bracelet for over 15 years now. I first
started wearing his bracelet after high school and would often think
of the sacrifice he and others made for us. Even though he has
been missing since the year before my birth he has always felt like a
friend. I later enlisted in the service myself and with the
exception of Navy Boot Camp and later Officer Candidate School (where
regulations prohibit wear of any form of jewelry) he has not been off
my wrist for more than a few moments. Together he and I have
traveled around the world many times from the middle east, Europe,
Africa, south east Asia, as well as the United States. We have
worked with the Navy Seals, Army Rangers, Marines, Air Force, as well
as the Spanish, English, and Tia Navies. Fought in the gulf
war and the war on terrorism and served with a Navy Special Boat Unit,
a Destroyer, and a LPD (Amphibious Warship) as well as repair
submarines, and care for service members in Europe. I have told
his story countless times from the bio I read on the internet.
Even the day of my recent promotion to O-4, I was amazed to think of
how now my peer Maj Holland has been apart of my life.
He is not forgotten.
Very Respectfully,
Lieutenant Commander Dave Roberts, USN
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From: "00RK" <00RK@comcast.net> Date: Fri, 1 Apr 2005 09:22:13 -0800
First off, I am
sorry for the loss of Col.
Melvin Joseph Killian
and all my brother veterans
that died in Viet NAM.
When I left the
Air Force in 1972, I received Melvin's bracelet from my mother who
worked at the Veterans Hospital in Long Beach, Ca. I wore it for
several years not knowing Col. Killian's outcome.
I want to share my
thanks to all Viet Nam Era Veterans for their contribution to
freedom. We are the forgotten ones...
If Col. Killian's
family or friends would like my bracelet, please email me at
00RK@comcast.net.
God Bless
SSGT Robert
Bourman
USAF 1968-1972
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From: "R. C. Shoemaker" <chuckshoemaker@mindspring.com> Date: Tue, 5 Apr 2005 11:33:56 -0500
To the family of
Lt. Robert R. Duncan:
I am priviledged to be in possession of a
bracelet containing the name of the above Navy Pilot. It was
given to me be a close friend's wife as she knew of my American Legion
affiliation. She had possessed it for many years. Although
I don't wear the bracelet, it rests on my desk at home and is a
constant reminder of the bravery Lt. Duncan and the men sent to
Vietnam displayed during such a tragic conflict. Please know
that he is not forgotten and that your family is owed an unpayable
debt by this nation. God bless you.
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From: "Pat Lewis" <pat@cmark.org> Date: Tue, 5 Apr 2005 13:10:21 -0400
I have another POW Bracelet story to share with you. I
just recently purchased a POW Bracelet from the Heart of Illinois POW
Web Site. This is my second POW Bracelet. I was so excited
when it arrived in the mail a few weeks ago. I also ordered the
book "More Than A Band of Metal" which hasn't arrived yet.
My POW is Capt. David Louis Hrdlicka. He went missing on
May 18, 1965 and was serving with the United States Air Force.
I have done extensive research on it via the Internet and have
discovered he ejected from his plane over Laos and was alive when he
was captured by the Laos people. He is listed as a POW/MIA to
this day. The information I have obtained from the POWnetowrk
and the Web are wonderful recourses in learning more about him.
I wish that the Internet had been available to me when I purchased my
first POW Bracelet. My Love letter appeared on July 3, 2002,
please if you get a chance read it.
As a result of someone reading my last Loveletter, I have not met but consider a good friend Jenny Gifford who was able to provide me with my first POW's home address and phone number. I wrote to him and received a letter back and he saw my first Loveletter and thanked me for such a lovely letter. I asked him would he like to have his bracelet and he said he would
like to have it donated to a Vietnam Memorabilia Project and/or
Memorial. I hope to one day honor his request.
Thanks again for such a wonderful Web Site and the Loveletters Link.
Patricia Roberson Lewis |
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From: "Carol Carver Harris"
<clummert1@juno.com> Date: Thu, 7 Apr 2005 05:13:49 GMT
To the family of Lt. Col. Lawrence W. Whitford, Jr. I have worn
his braclet since 1975. I want you to know that "WE HAVE
NOT FORGOTTON"
Sincerely, Carol Harris
clummert1@juno.com |
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Date: Fri, 8 Apr 2005 15:47:13 -0700 (PDT) From: Jim Azelton <azeltonjt@yahoo.com> Subject: Contacting family of MIA.
Sir or Ma'am,
I am researching an MIA from the town I live in and I have done
as much research as possible on the web and have a fairly detailed
amount of information but I also would like to write an article for
the town paper and need more information. A friend of the MIAs
now deceased daughter told me I should contact his wife, that she was
very nice and probably like to know someone else is keeping his memory
alive. I haven't been able to find her phone number and don't want to
just blindly call people on the chance I can find her.
I understand the position you are in where privacy is
concerned and I don't want to compromise that. However, I desperately
want to write something for the local paper and American Legion since
they have never heard of him! I am not trying to sell anything
and certainly don't want to dredge-up bad memories but instead I want
her to know he isn't forgotten either.
If I give my contact information to you, would you be willing to pass
it on to her? If she doesn't want to respond, I will understand
and respect that and leave the issue alone. I would greatly
appreciate any help you are willing to lend.
The MIAs name is Johnny C. Calhoun,
missing 27 MAR 1968. His wife's .... name was Martha ...
and they had a daughter named Teresa who passed away in 2001.
Her husband has since remarried and I can't locate him either. A
friend of Teresa said that she thought Johnny's wife never remarried
and probably still goes by Calhoun. Johnny's home of record is
Newnan, GA-where I live.
My name is Jim Azelton My phone number is 770-683-9149.
Thank you very much.
Jim Azelton
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Date: Sat, 09 Apr 2005 20:20:21 -0400 From: "Madeiros" <madeiros@bellatlantic.net>
To the family of Spec.
5 Randall Ellis (4-18-69),
I have had my bracelet since about 1972
when I got it in 5th grade. I wore it for years and checked the papers
faithfully for Randall's return. At some point as a teenager, I put
the bracelet away but always kept it with me as a grew up and moved
from one place to another. I have never forgotten the name on my
bracelet.
This evening I took out my bracelet and
put it on again. It made me think of checking the internet to see if
there was any news regarding Randall Ellis. Please know that my
thoughts have been with you for all these many years. I have not, and
will not ever, forget.
I wish you peace and will continue to keep
you and Randall in my thoughts.
~Marianne
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Date: Wed, 13 Apr 2005 12:59:49 -0700 (PDT) From: William <grandaddydean@yahoo.com>
I recently came across a POW/MIA bracelet that I had worn while on
active duty in the Army. I am ashamed to say that I had let it
become lost among many of my military items. The name on the
bracelet is that of Capt. Lewis Smith II,
with a MIA date of 5-30-68. I've done some checking and have found out
that he was an Air Force pilot shot down in Laos on that date.
To his family and friends, I express my love and prayers to you for
your long separation from him. I know that some day, either here
or in GOD's arms, you will be reunited with him. If you read
this, I'd like to correspond with you and learn more about him.
I too served in Vietnam from Nov. '69 til Aug. '70. I was severly
wounded and was sent back to the states to recover.
Thank you for his service to our country....
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From: "Sharon McLaughlin-Comstock"
<sharonmccom@cox.net> Date: Mon, 18 Apr 2005 19:39:16 -0400
Hello,
My name is Sharon McLaughlin-Comstock. I
bought a bracelet bearing the name of Lt.
Wesley D. Ratzel with the MIA date of 5-18-72 when I was in
high school around 1975. I wore this bracelet faithfully
and with great pride until I married in 1988. My husband then wore it
for me. I was unable at that time to find any information on Wesley so
we continued to honor him. I lost my husband to an accident in 1996
and lost track of the bracelet. I just found it tonite in a box and
decided to try again to find information about Lt. Ratzel. I was sad
to learn of the return of his remains but somewhat comforted that his
family can stop wondering. I would be happy to return the bracelet to
a family member if this is requested. My father is a Vietnam Veteran
and lost his best friend there. I can be contacted at sharonmccom@cox.net.
Sharon Mclaughlin-Comstock
Virginia Beach, Va
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Date: Mon, 18 Apr 2005 01:48:55 -0700 From: Renee Sellars <loracrc@direcway.com>
To whom it may concern:
In 1973 around Memorial Day, my
high school was selling POW and MIA bracelets for us to buy and wear.
The name on my bracelet is: Lt.
Col. Smith Swords III and with his name is a date 12-30-67.
Which I believe is the date he went missing. I do know that he
was in the Air Force and flew F-4H.
I want to give this back to a family
member because from the small information I received he did not make
it back to the USA.
If anyone has information regarding Lt.
Col. Smith Swords III please let me know.
Thank you
Renee Cruce-Sellars
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From: "carolyn smith" <CSheswright@comcast.net> Subject: I have had 1 Lt. Douglas Ferguson's Bracelet Since 1971 Date: Tue, 19 Apr 2005 02:34:28 -0600 To
Whom It May Concern, How
can I return this cherished item to his family? I
was in 5th grade in 1971. I wore it until it broke
because I was so small and was crushed. I have saved and
cherished it, and honored it and his memory. Tonight I read his
most tragic and heroic story and am proud to have had the honor of
wearing his memory and knowing the importance, even as a small child,
it carried. I only wish my wearing it could have brought him
home. I have kept it with my most treasured possessions.
Keepsakes… items from my grandmother, jewels my daughter made me as
a child and precious gems whose value could never compare. I
suppose I have delayed in finding out Please
let me know how to return this priceless bracelet to his family.
You know, as a child I felt a terrible burden that when it broke that
somehow I was responsible for his terrible demise. I felt that
somehow I could have saved him if I had been bigger. As an adult
I know this is not true, but a child carries so many burdens and I
felt that, had my wrist been bigger and, had I not needed to have
squeezed the bracelet tighter to fit my small wrist, he would have
lived. I knew even at that small age, watching the news he had
died for my/our freedom. I silently cried and I thanked him.
He has always been my hero. I always hoped he survived somehow.
I knew he was a brave man. I thanked him for giving his life and
was sorry I was so small I was not able to give him comfort in his
time of need… to give his family comfort in their time of need. I
grew close to 1 Lt. Douglas With
love and great respect, Carolyn
Wright Smith |
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Date: Tue, 19 Apr 2005 09:22:09 -0400 From: "Jane Peterson" <janep@naca.org> I
have the P.O.W. bracelet of Michael
O’Donnell. MIA is 3/24/70. I would love to return the
bracelet to his family. God be with all of our soldiers. Jane
Peterson janep@naca.org |
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Date: Tue, 19 Apr 2005 13:25:56 -0700 (PDT) From: Rich H <richieh64@yahoo.com>
To the family of Cdr. Peter Mongilardi;
I have only recently found out that Cdr Mongilardi's remains were
returned to you in 1994. I had been wearing his bracelet since the
late 1980's while working as a medic in New Brunswick. It is with both
relief and sadness I heard your news. I know you found out years
ago but I unfortunately only just found out. My God keep you and all
of your family under his watchful eye with Cdr. Mongilardi at his
side.I will be leaving his bracelet at either the Memorial in DC or NJ
this summer.
Again God Bless All of You and All that are still out there
Rich
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Date: Mon, 25 Apr 2005 13:47:35 -0400 Subject: POW Bracelet From: "Bonnie Snyder" <bonnie.snyder@childrens.harvard.edu>
After more than 30 years that I have held a POW bracelet that belonged
to the name of James Lloyd Griffin,
I am finally able to return it to the family. They located my
email address from your web site (because I had requested info about
my POW) and I will send them the bracelet. I hope it adds a small
amount of closure to the family. It does to mine.......
B. Snyder
Massachusetts
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From: "tere" <tere@nycap.rr.com> Date: Mon, 25 Apr 2005 18:30:28 -0400
RE: Maj. Stanley
Horne, 1/14/68
To the family and loved ones of Major
Stanley Horne:
My POW/MIA bracelet has the name of Maj.
Stanley Horne. I am sorry for your loss. If you would like
the bracelet, just contact me at tere@nycap.rr.com.
I don't remember which year I got the
bracelet but it had to have been the 1970s. I was probably 14 or 15. I
wore it for years and then retired it to my jewelry box, never knowing
what had happened to him. I've wondered about him thru the years --
what he looked like, where he lived and, especially, whether he
came home safely. I am just now learning of his fate through this web
site and am very sorry.
Maj. Horne was initially listed as a POW
and then moved to MIA status. All these years, his fate was not known.
Until his remains were sent home in 1990 and positively identified as
his. It is still not known whether he survived the crash of his
aircraft. Maj. Stanley H. Horne was the pilot of an F105D Thunderchief
dispatched on a mission over North Vietnam on January 14, 1968. At a
point on the Red River near the city of Yen Bai in Nhgia Lo Province,
Horne's aircraft was shot
down and he was never seen again.
Please know that I will continue to
remember and honor him always.
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From: Yvonnemytab@aol.com Date: Tue, 26 Apr 2005 18:39:59 EDT Subject: William J. Potter's family
I have recently found this website. It gave me information that
I have wondered about for a long time now. In 1972 I
started wearing the pow/mia bracelet. I was 14 years old.
I never took it off for anything. I was told when the war ended
to take it off and put it up. Which I did. I have
never forgotten William. William and his family have always
been on my mind and I prayed for him and his family constantly.
I was saddened to find out that I will never get to speak with
him and let him know how proud I was of him for serving his country. Today
is April 25, 2005 this is the day I found out I will not have a chance
to say thank-you to William. My heart is hurting for him
and his family. I have young boys I taught in Sunday School
who are over in Iraq now. I pray for them and worry over
them as I did William. Please if you are William's family feel
free to contact me and I will send you the bracelet. My prayers
are still with you.
Love in christ,
Yvonne Brownlee
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Does anyone have contact info for next of
kin to John Boronski, whose remains were recovered a few years ago. I
wore a POW/MIA bracelet bearing his name for years while serving in SF,
and would like to return it to his family, now that he has been returned
home.
Jonathan Clouse 2272-GL jgccgc@kpunet.net |
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From: "Julie Sosnowski" <freebird@allegan.net> Date: Thu, 28 Apr 2005 19:50:26 -0400
To the family of Glenn Arthur Belcher,
United States Air Force:
My name is Julie Sosnowski. I live
in Allegan, Michigan. I was honored to wear Mr. Belcher's
MIA/POW Bracelet for many years. I just found this web site and
was saddened to find out that he did not make it home alive.
Although I never met Mr. Belcher, I always
felt a bond. To see his name on my wrist reminded me of all the
sacrifices made by our military men, women and families. I
prayed for him and thought of him often. I still do. My
brother served in the United States Navy and served in Desert Storm.
I understand the stress a family goes through, however, he was lucky
to come back home to us.
Please know I am so sorry for your loss.
I grieve with you. I will continue to pray for Mr. Belcher and
you. I am so grateful for all he did for our country. You
must be so proud.
Respectfully yours,
Julie Sosnowski
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From: "LuAnn Heller"
<teddybear76@comcast.net> Date: Thu, 5 May 2005 00:34:21 -0700 To
the family of Frederick J Wozniak, I
ordered a POW bracelet when I was 12?? I am now 47 and still have the
bracelet bearing his name. I lived in I
just wanted you to know that I am a proud American and support the
Viet Nam Veterans and always will. I am proud to carry your son/
husband/ brother’s name in memory of all of those who are missing or
have died for our freedom. LuAnn
Heller |
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Date: Sun, 8 May 2005 22:11:26 -0700 (PDT) From: BILL WOLF <doujoy53190@sbcglobal.net> Subject: Lt Col Charles Macko
I have been in possession of a pow/mia bracelet of LT.
Col. Charles Macko 2-22-69, since 1970 or 71. I would like to
return it to the family of LT Col Charles
Macko but don't know how to contact them.
I have been to D.C. to The Wall twice and asked the park
service there but they are just rude and have no clue. I have even
gone up to vets near the wall and asked if anyone of them knew how to
return a bracelet and a wonderful gentleman suggested your site.
I have posted my e-mail on another family site but
received no reply. If anyone out there knows the Charles Macko
family would you please e-mail me with the info.
All these years my heart went out to his loved
ones and from time to time prayed his family has found peace. Bless
you to the Macko family.
Joyce D. in Wi.
doujoy53190@sbcglobal.net
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Date: Mon, 09 May 2005 14:24:57 -0700 Subject: Lt. Col. Donald Francis Casey From: Terry & Janet Pair <rarepair@airmail.net>
For 31 years I have had Lt. Casey's bracelet - on my wrist as a young
girl, in an assortment of jewel boxes, travelling with me to a variety
of homes and cities. Currently it sits, still in my jewel box,
next to a lock of hair from my beloved grandmother and two of my
precious seven year old daughter's teeth.
I just found your site and have learned about Lt. Casey in his 'Bio'. I felt like I was visiting an old friend. How good it was to finally know something about this fine person that I've kept close for so many years. And how sad I was to learn that his status is still MIA. May God one day return him to his family. Until that day, I will continue to keep him close to my heart and all the momentos of those I love dearly.
JJ Pair
rarepair@airmail.net
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From: "marysturzl" <msturz@netnet.net> Date: Tue, 10 May 2005 19:24:00 -0500
Hello my name is Nikki Black and I wear
the POW/ MIA bracelets of PFC Donald L Sparks
US Army and PFC Jeffrey J Young US Army. If
anyone has any information on them or their families
please feel free to contact me via email at blackrose0220@hotmail.com.
My father too is a Vietnam Veteran, this is the reason I first began
wearing a bracelet, which has become 2 and soon will be 3. I
never remove my bracelets, not even for medical reasons, you would be
amazed at the understanding that hospitals have for the bracelets.
If by some chance a family member of these very honorable men
shall read this I hope you know that these men our in my heart,
thoughts, and prayers everyday of my life. The sacrifices the
men and women made could never be repaid properly. I pray
for a return someday and that I can send these bracelets home to the
men or families that they belong too. Take care and God bless. Sincerely
yours, Nikki L Black
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From: "KYLE WALLACE" <everviewretreat@bigpond.com> Date: Thu, 12 May 2005 20:04:51 +1000
I wish to send my heartfelt prayers to
Peter Cressman's family.After
reading a copy of "KISS THE BOY'S GOODBYE" I became aware of
the plight of missing servicemen. The only trouble with this, is most
of them are exactly where the U.S. government
left them. What has transpired is simply just unforgivable.
Pte Wallace 41st Bttn RAINF.
Sydney Australia
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Date: Sat, 14 May 2005 11:42:26 -0700 (PDT) From: Cindy Fanska <cfanska@sbcglobal.net> Subject: To the family of W. W. Hail
To the family of Capt.
W. W. Hail (8-2-65),
I have had a POW/MIA bracelet for Capt. William
Warren Hail since I was in college in the early 1970s.
I am very sorry that, apparently, he has not been
returned to you yet. My prayers are with him and with you,
his family.
The bracelet currently resides in my
"treasure" drawer and still serves as a reminder of
him, his service, and his sacrifices for all of us. If
however, you would like the bracelet, I would be very happy to
send it to you.
It has been an honor to wear and own his bracelet.
Respectfully,
Cindy Fanska
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