Jim was a graduate of Reitz HS class 1965. He was very active in Theater productions Liked hanging out with his classmates.
My brother had a big heart with family. Helped out in time of need.
In Nov 1967 he was in my wedding. And was called to serve during the Vietnam War.
In December he left for his basic training in Ft Benning. After his training he shipped out to Vietnam. I found letters from him a few years ago. Telling of his fear of the war and areas that were so unsafe.
My mom and I always would send packages of candy and goodies. He wrote letters as much as time allowed.
In May 1968. I answered the phone to hear from the Army that he was seriously injured and being sent home. He ended up in Walter Reed Hospital. For months.
He had been hit my a mine in Vietnam. Returning home paralyzed in a wheelchair.
He wanted no pity. I never heard him complain or cry about his life being confined and not able to walk. His worst battle was trying to fight for disability rights for ADA. Use of ramps to get around. The rest of his years were traveling in a van he bought with a lift to get in to drive. He traveled all over visiting family. Fishing and things he could manage.
Oct 21 1982. He ended his life from PTSD and no longer wanted to continue living.
He was always a hero to me and served our country.
It took me a long time to write a bio about him other than say he was a Vietnam Veteran. You are missed my brother.
This year. I am waiting for a medallion to be placed on his mausoleum that he earned from his service. Not enough for our Military that were never welcomed home for losing their lives.
Merry Christmas 2019
Vietnam Service Medal. 3 bronze service stars
Jim was a graduate of Reitz HS class 1965. He was very active in Theater productions Liked hanging out with his classmates.
My brother had a big heart with family. Helped out in time of need.
In Nov 1967 he was in my wedding. And was called to serve during the Vietnam War.
In December he left for his basic training in Ft Benning. After his training he shipped out to Vietnam. I found letters from him a few years ago. Telling of his fear of the war and areas that were so unsafe.
My mom and I always would send packages of candy and goodies. He wrote letters as much as time allowed.
In May 1968. I answered the phone to hear from the Army that he was seriously injured and being sent home. He ended up in Walter Reed Hospital. For months.
He had been hit my a mine in Vietnam. Returning home paralyzed in a wheelchair.
He wanted no pity. I never heard him complain or cry about his life being confined and not able to walk. His worst battle was trying to fight for disability rights for ADA. Use of ramps to get around. The rest of his years were traveling in a van he bought with a lift to get in to drive. He traveled all over visiting family. Fishing and things he could manage.
Oct 21 1982. He ended his life from PTSD and no longer wanted to continue living.
He was always a hero to me and served our country.
It took me a long time to write a bio about him other than say he was a Vietnam Veteran. You are missed my brother.
This year. I am waiting for a medallion to be placed on his mausoleum that he earned from his service. Not enough for our Military that were never welcomed home for losing their lives.
Merry Christmas 2019
Vietnam Service Medal. 3 bronze service stars
Inscription
james e lively jr
Gravesite Details
vietnam veteran U S ARMY