#VeteranOfTheDay Marine Corps Veteran Stephen W. Pless - VA News

Helicopter pilots were the bravest men I encountered in Vietnam. Their slow-moving machines were always visible and within range of Infantry weapons. A Viet Cong guerilla firing an AK47 automatic rifle could knock down the most sophisticated and heavily-armed helicopter we had. It was common for some passengers on choppers to remove their flak vests and sit on them, hoping to protect their family jewels from ground fire (a useless endeavor if ever there was one).

Man. Survive Vietnam only to lose his life in an accident. That is a tough break.

Thank you, 2Lt Pless, may you rest in peace Sir.