"I still believe that individual freedom is the most important thing in the world, and I am willing to die defending that idea." (Memoir, page 17)

Denton Winslow Crocker, Jr.

Denton Winslow Crocker, Jr. Fort Benning, 1965. War: Vietnam War, 1961-1975 Branch: Army Unit: 2nd Battalion, 502 Infantry, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division Service Location: Fort Dix, New Jersey; Fort Benning, Georgia; South Vietnam Rank: Private First Class Place of Birth: NY

A top-notch student, a respectful son, and a loyal brother to his young siblings, Denton Crocker, Jr. was also a student of history and obsessed with the war in Southeast Asia. In the fall of 1964, this high school senior ran away from home to try to enlist in the Army, knowing his parents preferred he go to college before serving his country. He eventually got his wish and became an infantryman in the jungles of Vietnam. His mother's moving memoir of her son's life and ultimate sacrifice attests to his idealism and sense of honor.