Jerry Alan Sweet

VETERAN

Shortly after we took on the challenge of restoring the Rossville Church and Cemetery, an event happened which is etched in my memory. I was up there, clearing some brush and mowing when an automobile pulled in. A gentleman exited and we chatted a bit. He had traveled a significant distance to pay his respects to a childhood friend who rests in the shade in the section of cemetery across the street from the church, Jerry Alan Sweet.

Lance Corporal Sweet was born in Pine Plains on April 4^th, 1948. Jerry attended the New Lebanon Central School where he excelled athletically, especially at shot put and the discus. He was active in the Boy Scouts and farming related clubs, like the American Guernsey Cattle Club, becoming a junior member when he was only eight years old! An all American youth.

Upon graduation, Jerry enlisted in the Marine Corp. on June 28^th, 1967, as a Private in Co. C, 1^st Bn, 9^th Mar. He served with distinction rising to the rank of Lance Corporal in less than a year. Sadly, he perished only eleven days after his twentieth birthday while in Vietnam.

Over the past five to six years, while mowing and doing clean ups, I often pause by Gerry’s final resting place and ponder what a man he had to have been, giving his life as he did. And knowing his friend has continued to visit. This is especially meaningful to me, and though the story is from almost sixty years ago, it is part of my generation’s history. But, I also have pondered the bond which exists between pals from childhood, which remain solid and strong after six decades, as his buddy still drifts by to pay his respects.

I wish I had the opportunity to know Jerry Alan Sweet, he had to be an exceptional individual. With respect and honor, I thank you for your service, Marine. Semper Fi. And bless your devoted buddy who takes the time to visit and spend somber moments at your grave, remembering back all those years when you were both young. Thanks for who sharing Jerry’s story with me. Standing there, in the shade of the trees, musing over these two men, I often think of a closing line from a great movie, and a great book…”I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve. Jesus, does anyone?”