COMPANY "C"
1ST BATTALION [MECH] 5TH INFANTRY
APO San Francisco 96225
17 APR 1969
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Hughes,
I extend my most profound sympathy to you on the recent loss of your son, Private First Class
Carl W. Hughes, a member of this unit, who died in the service of his country.
During the morning of March 15, 1969, at approximately 1:20 A.M., Carl was participating in
a reconnaissance in force mission in hostile territory near Cu Chi, Province of Binh Duong,
Republic of Vietnam. Carl received severe head injuries when he was struck by fragments from
an enemy anti-tank rocket. It may afford you some consolation to know that death came
quickly and Carl was spared any unnecessary pain.
News of your son's death comes as a distinct shock to all who knew him and his loss will be
deeply felt in this unit. Carl's pleasant nature coupled with his ability to perform his duties
in an outstanding manner made him an exemplary soldier.
It may provide some small measure of comfort to know that the officers and men of Company
C share your bereavement. Memorial services will be held when the battalion returns from the
field.
Sincerely yours,
Joseph F. Bane
Captain, Infantry
Commanding
