Michael VinassaSpecialist FourC CO, 1ST BN, 8TH CAVALRY, 1 CAV DIV Army of the United States 06 November 1946 - 22 May 1966 Culver City, California Panel 07E Line 104 |
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The database page for Michael Vinassa
Michael Vinassa, I am honored to write in your memory. LT Vavrick led you to replace Bravo Company's 1st Platoon upon its withdrawal from the fight. I have heard you were outstanding with your grenade launcher. You single-handedly beat back a flanking unit of NVA soldiers with your bravery and remarkable ability, yet in your rush to save others you forgot about yourself, which is how heros are born. You had just eliminated the final enemy machine gun when their last burst took you from us. The level of bravery cannot be met with simple medals, your actions are the result of your selfless attitude. You saved lives that day, yet lost your own. America lost a son, a hero, a selfless man. Your place in heaven was ready for your homecoming, and you went out honorably. Thank you, Mr. Vinassa, for giving your own so others might live. "HONOR AND COURAGE"
In Gerry Metcalf's Memory, 11 Nov 2006 Mr. Vinassa, your story is truly one that should be remembered for all of time. You were working on the brigade chapel leading up to this day. You were the only male left of your family, which consisted of your mom. You were a "short timer" with 2 or 3 weeks left, then you were going home. You made several requests to rejoin your brothers for one more battle. You were approved. Some would have revelled in being done, you wanted to give more. This makes the bond formed from battle more obvious. You were one of Charlie Company's finest, and proved that by your actions. They say you could thread a needle with the M79, you proved it with the lives you saved. THANK YOU. HONOR AND COURAGE
In Gerry Metcalf's Memory, |
I was a teenage friend of Michael Vinassa. We belonged to a club known as the Chancellors of Venice. Mike was a tough kid and a fighter. Big, barrel-chested, well-liked and well-respected. During the Viet Nam era, we both went into the Army at roughly the same time. Our paths had already parted. In 1966, I was in Germany and read in the Army Times that he was on the list of casualties. Mike was one of two of the Chancellors who died in Viet Nam. The other young man died while I was home on leave in Los Angeles, and I attended his funeral. I have since visited his grave twice in the past year. I am still trying to detemine where Mike is buried, so I can also visit his grave and pay my respects. I have learned that Mike died in heroic circumstances. Mike, may you rest in peace and may your sacrifice never be forgotten.
Gary Fouse |
A Note from The Virtual WallThe 8th Cavalry fought two bitter engagements in the Vinh Thanh Valley in May 1966. On 17 May the 2nd Battalion lost 19 soldiers, and on the 22nd the 1st Battalion lost eleven more:
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With all respect
Jim Schueckler, former CW2, US Army
Ken Davis, Commander, United States Navy (Ret)
Memorial first published on 24 Jul 2006
Last updated 08/10/2009