Robert Graham Nopp

The database page for Robert Graham Nopp

10 Dec 2005 LTC Robert Graham Nopp is the name I chose for my son, Teddy, to wear on his bracelet. After reading about you and PFC Kipina, I was saddened that neither of you have returned home after 39 years. Your families have not known the peace that comes from knowing where you are after too many years of waiting. I pray that when your plane went down, your spirit went soaring wpwards and never looked back. It had to be difficult leaving your home and family and going to an unknown country to fight for all of us. I hope you never knew about the unsupportive public that questioned you even being in Vietnam. They have since realized how mistaken they were and finally know they owe their lives to you. My son has known freedom all of his 27 years because of brave and courageous men like you. He doesn't know much about the war we had in Vietnam, but wearing your name will remind him of the ultimate gift you gave for all of us. We salute you and will continue to remember you each day as we enjoy our precious freedom. God's blessings in your homecoming, we'll be waiting. Rebecca LaRussa rebecca.larussa@comcast.net

A Note from The Virtual Wall On 14 July 1966, Captain Robert G. Nopp and observer PFC Marshall F. Kipina took off from Phu Bai Air Base, Hue, in OV-1C tail number 61-2675 for a night surveillance mission over the Ho Chi Minh Trail. The last contact with Nopp was at about 2330. When he failed to return and an airfield search showed that he had not diverted to another field search and rescue efforts began - but neither aircraft nor crew was found. Both men were classed as Missing in Action, and both men were promoted while in that status. In time the Secretary of the Army approved Presumptive Findings of Death for LTC Nopp (on 01 Dec 1977) and SSG Kipina (on 09 Feb 1978). Their remains have not been recovered.

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With all respect
Jim Schueckler, former CW2, US Army
Ken Davis, Commander, United States Navy (Ret)
Last updated 08/10/2009