Some farewells are harder than others, and this one is one of them.
Today I have to say goodbye to my dear friend and 36th Engineer, Tom Nokes. I received this, this morning...
Today we lost one of our best. Tom Nokes was not just a nice person, he was an outstanding citizen, a great friend. I first met him in Fort Knox at a 19th Engineer celebration. His son Bob joined us in the past and hopefully will do so again. AS our numbers get fewer each loss is more painful. May he rest in peace.
36 Engineers are rugged......John Fallon II. Capt. USA Ret.
Ah, cried when I read this. Thinking of all the good times spent with Tom. Can't believe he is gone. Thought of the last time we were together. Tom handed me an envelope and said, read this when you go back to your room tonight. When I opened it, a card with the most beautiful words were within, along with a verse from Danny Boy, which is rarely heard.
I read that card to my husband, his brother and his wife a short while ago, and everyone at the table got all choked up. I shall treasure that card forever, along with all the good times we had, including the trip to Fort Hood.
Will love ya forever Tom. You're missed more than you will know.
Marion
Marion J Chard
Proud Daughter of Walter (Monday) Poniedzialek
540th Engineer Combat Regiment, 2833rd Bn, H&S Co, 4th Platoon
There's "No Bridge Too Far"
I am sorry to hear of Tom's passing, it was an honour to know him and talk to him at the 36th reunions. I will treasure his memory along with the picture I have of him with Marion and me. My generation and others owe him so much.
I am just glad you got to meet him and get to know him. So glad we have that pic of the three of us; how special it is.
I'm happy to see your post, for it seems not many people take notice of our fallen veterans on the forum anymore. It's so sad when an engineer passes away and not one reply to say farewell or pay your respects...
Marion J Chard
Proud Daughter of Walter (Monday) Poniedzialek
540th Engineer Combat Regiment, 2833rd Bn, H&S Co, 4th Platoon
There's "No Bridge Too Far"
Sorry to hear of yet another seahorse passing. From looking at the pictures, it looks like I missed meeting him by a year. It's sad I'll be missing the next several being in Okinawa.
Yes, I am sorry you didn't get to meet him. I know you would feel the same way so many of us do.
Marion J Chard
Proud Daughter of Walter (Monday) Poniedzialek
540th Engineer Combat Regiment, 2833rd Bn, H&S Co, 4th Platoon
There's "No Bridge Too Far"
