Day is done, gone the sun, from the lakes, from the sky, all is well, safely
rest....God is nigh. Fading light dims the sight, and a star gems the sky, gleaming
bright from afar, drawing nigh, falls the night. Thanks and praise, for our days,
neath the sun, neath the stars, neath the sky, as we go , this we know, God is
nigh......
Heavenly Father, we are assured by these beautiful words that as
Mike's days drew to a close, you God, was truly nigh, and that he now dwells with
you in peace. Help us all to recall Your Words in these times of tribute, that
if we would LOVE OUR FELLOW MAN AS WE LOVE OURSELF, THESE TRIBUTES WOULD NOT BE
NECCESSARY. We offer our thanks and praise to You in Jesus Name, amen.
Reflecting
upon the memory Mike left with the many that served with him, we see a man that
was raised to believe there is a right and a wrong. One that knew how to love
others and shared whatever he had for the good of others. Especially those of
less fortune. The American expression for men like this, is the "good old boys".
It is a metaphor of one that is trustworthy, kind, gentle, and respectful of others.
One who would give you his last dime, even the shirt off his back. To be called
a good old boy is truly a complement and surely Mike fell into this mold. His
demeanor, sense of humor, and that great big contagious smile spoke volumes about
him. He was a real hammer when it came to cheering others up, or boosting morale.
Mike joined one of the most "Elite and Dangerous" units to serve in during the
Vietnam war. This was the famed "Long Range Patrol Rangers of the 75th Ranger
Regiment". To be in this unit one had to volunteer because of the hazardous missions
they would go on. They worked deep in enemy held territory gathering intelligence
that could be gotten no other way. The teams were made of a team leader and three
other men, and on occasions would engage the enemy of much larger size with favorable
results. They commanded the respect, and yes, the envy of others soldiers. They
were hated and feared by the enemy. North Vietnamese Officers interviewed during
and after the war stated; The long Range Patrol Rangers was their most feared
enemy. This was because they showed up where least expected, and that was their
back yard. Those that knew Mike and those who have served in like spirit, have
the deepest respect that can be bestowed upon a fellow "WARRIOR" and that is to
never forget his contribution towards Freedom and Peace. We loved and still love
our brother.
Mike you gave your all and we hope on this fatal day the angels
were there to carry you swiftly home, a home, where there is a beauty, we have
yet to grasp. Rest brother, we still have a Nation that remains free because of
soldiers like you.
We who live on must never forget our fallen brothers, or
sisters, that paid the ultimate price. Neither can we allow our generation and
those to come, to forget. Please be reminded, none are gone until we no longer
remember
To the family that has had to bear the loss of Mike, we offers our
heart-felt thanks for your standing so strong. Many that enjoy real freedom have
been affected by the great contribution he gave towards our freedom. He is still
dearly loved and missed, even to this day.
Bob Smyers |
