Patrick H. Fraizer (Fraizer)

Another veteran that has died.  It still hurts, another veteran brother that carried the battle to the end.

God Bless you are at peace.

Michael Burnside

r.i.p. doug. i too was there in 66 and 67 . huaah brother .

Connie Stuff (Houser)

I sat behind Doug in Journalism class,he was friendly, and I liked him.  After highschool something in Reader's Digest caught my eye when Humor in Uniform posted a quote and it was from Doug. (It posted similar to the following):   In a military hospital, a volunteer was going around asking who might be interested in free magazines.  When he came upon Doug he asked, "Sir, would you like a free copy of Playboy?,

Doug's reply, "Oh yes, but if only it comes in braille?!!

Then I realized  he had a very serious injury from the war, and my heart still goes out to him and his family for what he gave for our country's freedom.  I do hope they get his name on the memorial wall in Washington too.

Connie (Stuff) Houser

Patricia A. Cooney (Vought)

Could we, as a class, put a memorial at his grave? 

Janet E. Ruby (Sanner)

That's a great idea for a memorial if it is allowed and I will certainly contribute. I also remember what a kind and thoughtful man Doug Pickell was and have thought often of his trajedy. Perhaps there is a military emblem that the cemetery would allow to be attached to his tombstone with his family's permission.

Patricia A. Cooney (Vought)

Are there any more thoughts of a memorial from the South Side class of 1964?

Mary A. Beaudway (Mavis)

It is most uplifting to read the comments concerning Doug and his life at SSHS. And to also read the interest in some type of a memorial for him. I believe Mr. Piercy would like for us to read the blog Doug's sister has posted concerning Doug and his life after Viet Nam. She is trying to get Doug's name on the Wall in D.C. Unfortunately, I believe, The Wall only will list those who actually died in Viet Nam. Since Doug's life lasted longer than that war, it has been a struggle. Now, in my mind, who is to say Doug did not really "die" when he was shot? 

Maybe our class could have a Memorial for ALL the brothers and sisters from the class of '64 who served and present it to SSHS?

My heart goes out to Doug and his family! The war in Viet Nam was " our" war and it was the war no one wanted to talk about!! The memories live in many lives, still today!! Maybe it is time, for us, to say 'Thank you"!!

Just my thoughts!

Michael L. Byrd

I believe there is a Viet Nam memorial affixed to the main hallway at SSHS. I believe I saw it there when I did the 50th anniversary tour. Anyone else who toured can correct me if I'm wrong.

Richard J. Waltke

Doug was one of my best friends during high school.  I found his humor to be infectious, and his company very satisfying.  One time at a Michigan concert, the local police detained him for his behavior as he simply wanted the band to play "Hey Mr. Tamborine Man" just one more time! He and I shared time playing the 12 string guitar, but for some reason, no commercial entertainment contract appeared.  Perhaps because exceptional talent is required.  I got to know his family, as well.  In fact Doug's father gave me my first job after graduating from South Side.  The job did not last.  I remember it paid $1.00/hour and was a dishwashing position at Rea Magnet Wire in Fort Wayne.  At the time, I understandably needed more for myself.  Vietnam came to us.  Doug went to Vietnam, and I to Europe.  We met up after our return.  Doug was living on his own, doing the best he could.  Especially considering the extreme physical limitations due to his injuries. Doug always had a great positive attitude such that he made the best of the situation he found himself to be experiencing, even subsequent to his being wounded.  Although his grievous injury was a significant impediment to Doug;  he continued bravely onward until his death.  I will always fondly remember Doug; and the many personal memories we created as friends.  RIP Doug.

Linda E. Evilsizer (Seal)

I did not know Doug very well, but I still feel a loss since he was a member of the 1964 SSHS class.  Something that binds all of us together. 

Knowing he was a soldier in Viet Nam also makes me know he was a man of honor! May he rest in peace.