-  Update On A Fallen Classmate  -

For several years, this association has listed N.D. Russell as KIA 1967, in Vietnam. However no verification could be found regarding the report of his death.

It is important that our records are correct to insure that our deceased Classmates are properly honored.

The following was found at the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association website and verified by Gary Roush, VHPA
historian. The report reads:

"2LT N. D. Russell was a potential member of the VHPA, who died during training before going to Vietnam on Jan 1 1968,  at the age of 22, from OH-23D accident during a rainy night training, cross country flight at Ft. Wolters TX with 2LT L.R. Mullens. - Flight Class 68-10 - Date of Birth 10/24/1945 - Served in the U.S. Army."

This information was provided by G. Snyder, John Konek.

The Association lists all persons who died in the service of their country as KIA, and N.D. Russell will be listed as KIA68.

With this closure, belatedly, but with just as much depth of feeling, our hearts and prayers go to Lt. Russell and his family. Those of us who were in his OCS Class remember his smile, his energy, his kindness, his camaraderie, and his determination to succeed. He was everything a fellow Classmate could be, and we are lucky to have known and served with him.

This page originally posted 30 December, 2008