Mike Bose, from Avoca, was drafted into the Army and began his military service 2/27/69. He landed in Vietnam on 7/20/69, the same day man landed on the moon. For him this was a place of hell. His duty assigned was to be Point man. He was shot and critically injured on 9/12/69. Hospitalized in Long Binh, Japan then Fitzsimons Army Hospital in Colorado. It was just at two years before he was able to return home to a small-town Hero's Homecoming in Avoca Ne. He would often say, "I am no hero! The Heroes are the ones who never made it home. We must never forget them!" He truly believed that in his heart. His heart also had so much love for those he served with. He loved his fellow comrades and when he and his buddies got together, the stories of good times were never ending. The kind that only brotherly love can re-enact and share. Military brotherhood is only understood completely by those who have experienced it.
The medals Mike earned were always kept in a box. But he knew they were there. The Bronze Star w/ Valor, National Defense, Air Medal and the Purple Heart. He was also proud to be a part of the Big Red One Company, saying they were the bad asses! His rank at the time of his discharge was Sgt E-5 (Buck Sgt.)
Like so many other soldiers returning home from Vietnam, Mike was haunted for years with the demons and scars of the war. He fought a war that at times seemed to never end. But never did he wavier from the fact that he gave all he could while he served, and he was always a Proud Veteran who loved America. He had no time for those who disrespected the flag or didn't love the freedoms of this country. One of his favorite sayings was "All Gave Some and Some Gave All" Those are the ones we need to remember and thank.
Mike's wounds healed on the outside. He married, raised two girls, who he got to walk down the aisle, and then be blessed with his amazing grandkids! He worked full time until his retirement, and yet always seem to have plenty of time to spend with his countless friends. He would do anything for any of them! To Mike everyone was his friend.
Vietnam didn't take him out, but on 14 July, 2024, Pancreatic Cancer did. He never complained and he stood strong right up to the end. Just like any soldier would do in the heat of battle. When asked what he wanted on his tombstone he simply said, "A Proud Veteran" And that he was indeed!
