Frederick Daniel Herrera

2 Feb 2005

Freddie was a very good friend and I think of him often. I have visited the wall twice and sadly it is as close as I can feel to him. We took a cross country bus trip together after high school graduation in 1968 and we had a great time visiting New York, New Hampshire, and many other places. Planning the trip together and being with Freddie that summer will always be some of my best memories. We tried to join the Army on the buddy system upon our return to Albuquerque in August, 1968. I was rejected due to a childhood illness that had no effect on me and not being allowed to serve haunts me to this day. I was first rejected in early June 1968. After the August rejection I wrote Sen. Montoya (NM) whose office wrote and told me that if I was thoroughly tested and approved by a civilian doctor I would be accepted by the Army. I did that and was accepted and given an early February 1969 induction date. I reported at 6:30 am on the specified day and at 9:30 am my name was called and I was told that I had been found to be physically unfit for military service.

Freddie was a great guy. He was funny, friendly, a great friend, and a very good athlete in all sports. We communicated while he went through basic and advanced training and he wrote about his deployment. I never heard from Freddie again. He was deemed missing-in-action in early 1969. I have tried in recent years to contact his parents and siblings but have been unsuccessful. Freddie will always be remembered and I try to honor him by telling others about Freddie, his service, and his brief life. Man, I wish I could see and visit with him. I miss you, Freddie, and I'll never forget you. My email address is sugarharley@earthlink.net Please contact me if you knew Freddie. Thank you.

Michael C. Crowley

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29 Mar 2006

I found Freddie's family, after many failed attempts, and in August, 2005 I visited Freddie's Mom and younger brother, Joe, in Albuquerque. It was very nice. I have also communicated via email with Freddie's younger sister, Pat, a number of times. I hope to see them again soon. They all went through a great deal, as did Freddie's Dad, who passed away several years ago. Please post your thoughts if you knew Freddie and are visiting this Memorial. Thank you.

From a friend,
Michael Crowley
sugarharley@earthlink.net