Hai Van Pass November 1968

by Ronald J Otremba
(Savage, Minnesota, USA)

Nineteen, hair the color of autumn sumac
Elated by the news, he was to be a father!
The war became more than just self preservation
There was a new reason to live and survive.
Tell that to the NVA!
12 hrs later, body crumpled, torn through his cot.
An RPG had found its mark and claimed another life.


This poem is in memory of Michael Passafume HN
Alpha Co 1st BN 26th Marines

Ronald J Otremba HM3
Alpha Co 1st BN 26th Marines