VV_VET passed away at Duke Medical Center Monday at 4 AM. A viewing will be held at Clements Funeral Home (1105 Broad Street, Durham, North Carolina 27705) Thursday from 7-9 PM. A graveside service will be held at 2 PM Mondayday at Highland Park Cemetery in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. There we will say our last goodbye and place him to rest next to his high school sweetheart, mom.

"Dad's getting buried in his jeans, fishing shirt and Vietnam Veterans hat, just like he wanted. He will also has his masonic apron and a few other items that he asked for.

VET loved this country and was proud to have worn the uniform. Over the years, he never cared about political reasons or reteoric, it was always about our brothers in arms, hanging it out because their buddies needed them.

VET loved the internet community, he liked 'meeting' new people and he really enjoyed the friendships he made, it made our family bigger, the only thing that could tear him away was fishing and work.

My family thanks you for your sympathy in this time of loss, but I offer to you that the world just suffered a loss and most of the people don't even know it. My family ask that instead of sending flowers, help the others in our extended family who need comfort more. The soldiers and sailors who don't make the policy, but who do suffer the most. Make a donation, volunteer your time, but please do something to help our fellow veterans, and tell 'em VV_VET sent ya!

Dad was 61 years old. I know that I will miss his wisdom and guidance.

VV_VET, ET2 Richard Leland Childree, Sr., you stand relieved, I assume the watch.

Fair winds, following seas and all my love dad.


Richard (Jr.)

Please pass along our thanks for all the support.."



From the AA Beta Team:

I am deeply saddened to report the passing of a dear friend both of the beta program and of mine personally, as well as a man who served his country and inspired others with his dedication and honor. Richard Childree, "Vet" to everyone who played with him, passed away today, 23 June 2008. He was an original member of the America's Army beta program and was active despite the difficult last few years.

Please keep his family in your thoughts. He is survived by his children.

He will be missed and I personally, will never forget him.