Andrea Shea King
© 2009
On Jan. 10, 1970, U.S. Army Capt. Herbert C. Crosby disappeared without a trace.
"Herby" Crosby was piloting "Firebird 91," a UH1C Iroquois Huey helicopter combat gunship in Vietnam. He was leading three Hueys returning from Tien Phuoc to the unit's home base at Chu Lai, South Vietnam. On board were Warrant Officer George A. Howes, co-pilot; Spc. 5th Class Wayne C. Allen, crew chief; and Spc. 4th Class Francis G. Graziosi, door gunner.
The 22-year old Crosby's tour of duty was scheduled to end a few weeks later, and the young serviceman looked forward to returning home to Donalsonville, Ga.
But on that day, Capt. Crosby and his three-man crew got lost in bad weather over Quang Nam Province. Their helicopter disappeared.
For 36 years, Crosby's family awaited word on the fate of their son and brother. On Dec. 8, 2006, they learned the truth. Herby's remains had been recovered, and all that was left to do was bury him with a full military funeral. The following Memorial Day, Capt. Herbert C. Crosby was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.
Today, we remember Capt. Crosby and all who have served our country, defenders of our liberty and that of oppressed countries the world over.