Long Island National Cemetery

Corporal Ruiz, Your old platoon sergeant SSGT. Al Anderson I have looked for you for many of years. I found you today 11/13/21 .You were the 1st Squad leader and the very best in the platoon. On 16 April 1968 you took over the platoon as everyone else was KIA or wounded for your action on that day you were awarded  the Silver Star .You gave your life that fateful day on hill 689 taking care of your Marines. I have never forgot you. You and I became very close during are time in Hue City guarding that bridge the CB's were building .It was 1st Squad and Me for two weeks. That time was like the war had passed us by. When we were pulled out on 21 January 1968 how little did we know the hell we would face at the Siege/Battle of Khe Sanh. Jose there 10 of us left alive as of today.Cpl. Karl Flowers joined you on 4 September 2021.As I write this my eyes are tearing up but I cannot  let out .i know you understand. No grater love has a man then to give his life for his Brother. Rest in peace. God bless you. I see your Father is next to you. Those that serve are so very special.I keep in contact with the Marines that are left from our Platoon We understand each other better then anyone else ,a call and a few words and to let them know I am but a phone call away as are they for me.One day we will all be together just not yet. OH Lt. Carter became a federal Judge, he still on the bench.I don't think he will ever stop working. Semper Fidelis

JOSE RUIZ JR

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