Remembering the Missing: A Vigil for Our Heroes in Frankfort
LEXINGTON, Ky. — For many military families, the weight of uncertainty hangs heavy in the air. Over 80,000 American soldiers remain unaccounted for, and among them are 1,299 from Kentucky, with 14 of these brave souls having been lost during the tumultuous Vietnam War. This heart-wrenching reality was poignantly highlighted by Todd Matonich, the president of the non-profit organization Rolling Thunder KY5, who states, “They went and served, and they need to come home.”
A Daughter’s Remembrance
Then there’s the story of Cathy Stringer Robinson, who was only 2 ½ years old when her father, Captain John Stringer II, went missing in Vietnam on November 30, 1970. Cathy reminisces about her father, describing him as “very generous and very kind” who had a passion for horses, sports, and family. Despite the decades that have passed, the search for her father continues, as there have been no concrete leads or closure. She mournfully shares, “He was swept away in a river… they have to have some reason to go looking, and so, no, we’ve not had any real information.”
Healing Through Service
For those who have returned from service, the struggle doesn’t necessarily end once they step back onto home soil. “There’s a void when you come back that you’re looking for all the time,” Matonich expressed, explaining how serving others has helped him cope with his experiences. He found solace in Rolling Thunder, emphasizing the organization’s role in helping veterans heal and honor their missing brothers and sisters.
Calling for Action and Support
Cathy Stringer Robinson believes that it’s time for action. “We need to be contacting our government officials,” she urges, pressing the need to advocate for continued funding of organizations like the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), which actively seek answers for families with unaccounted loved ones. She calls on everyone to join in this mission to ensure that the efforts to find these servicemen and women remain persistent.
A Night of Remembrance
To further raise awareness and honor those who remain missing in action, a candlelight vigil is being organized on the steps of the state capitol in Frankfort. This poignant event is set to take place on Friday, September 20th at 7:30 PM. It will serve as a touching reminder of the sacrifice made by these brave individuals and the families left wondering about their fates.
Rounding Off Support
Matonich offers hope to families still waiting for answers. “I tell families not to lose hope,” he encourages, acknowledging the emotional toll such a journey can take but also emphasizing the importance of community and solidarity. The stories of these missing soldiers are not just statistics or numbers; they are cherished memories that people like Cathy and Todd carry in their hearts every day.
Join the Community
If you’re in the Lexington area, consider attending the vigil to show your support for the families still searching for answers. Bringing communities together can fill some of the void left by absence and reinforce the message that no soldier or their family should be forgotten.
In a world where many of us chase after daily distractions, honoring our heroes and addressing the pain of their absence is vital. Let’s come together to advocate for those who sacrificed so much and to support their families still yearning for clarity. After all, they went to serve, and they need to come home.
