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Robert Andrew Van Patten

Born on: 3/26/43
It is said a man hasn't died as long as he is remembered. This prayer is a way for families, friends and fellow veterans to remember our fallen brothers and sisters.

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight,
I am the stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there, I did not die



Gone but not forgotten
30 Mar 2008 Robert Andrew van Patten volunteered for duty and completed training at Fort Sill OCS 1966 Class 22-66. He served in the rank of 1st Lt. for two tours of duty. While serving as a Forward Observer with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry he was, according to the VVMF, killed while trying to save a fellow soldier who was taken down by enemy fire. For this action he was awarded the Silver Star. As a ten-year-old girl, I received the phone call for my dad from officers in Vietnam, telling him his brother had been killed. At the time, it was my understanding he had been killed by throwing himself on a grenade to save nearby troops. I'll try to get some clarifiction. As a child I enjoyed time with my Uncle Bobby, and remember him playing tag with me and my siblings and also playing the accordian.
From his niece, Angela Van Patten angelavanpatten@comcast.net
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