Veterans Day, November 11, 2022. Its more than a day off work. Today is a day of somber tone, of heartfelt thanks. For some, Veterans Day is an emotional buzz saw filled with memories of a loved one who never came home. For some, this day is another reminder of where they have been and that which cannot be unseen nor undone.
On this day we here at the Pana History Museum honor those who wore the uniform that is adorned with the flag of freedom. We pay tribute to those men and women who have witnessed the horrors of war. We memorialize those who sacrificed all.
The Pana History Museum is pleased to release the first video of a series we call Hometown Heroes. In this episode we focus on Warrant Officer Francis A. Rochkes who was killed in action while serving his country in Vietnam. Warrant Officer Rochkes served with distinction as a helicopter pilot in the Air Calvary, the 1/9 as it is known, an all volunteer unit. We are proud to present his story here for you to witness. Thanks for watching.
Thanks to Patrick Bieneman for his service in the 1/9 and his wonderful website that was instrumental in putting this video together, thank you. https://patrickbieneman.com/