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July/August 2005
FEATURE
HAROLD "SARGE" SCHAEFER
1947-2005
BY GRANT COATES When properly describing Harry "Sarge" Schaefer, I have to tell stories. Stories of pride, honor, country, love for fellow veterans of all generations and for those who now serve. Stories of Sarge's love for his wife, Fara, and those dear to him. Stories of Sarge's confidence in himself and the honor of friendship with others. Stories of Sarge's unique style of leadership.
When asked why he had the nickname "Sarge," Harry would say in a blasting voice, "Because I get things done." Woe to the person that didn't address him as Sarge. Sarge would dress that person down with the vigor that a drill sergeant enlightens a young recruit.
At the Greensboro National Convention, Gen. Richard Myers and his staff were met at the hotel by Sarge, me, and a driver. Sarge walked up, bellowed out, "Good morning, sir. I am Sarge Schaefer, the National Sergeant at Arms of Vietnam Veterans of America," and shook the general's hand. Well, the talking, joking, and inter-service barbs started and didn't end until the General and his staff posed with us for a group picture.
Harold Schaefer was very proud of his home, Brooklyn. One of five children, Harry and his twin were in Vietnam together. Sarge had two sons and a daughter. He drove a fuel truck until the ghost from the past, Agent Orange-induced cancer, began to get the best of him.
His heart, soul, and life were Vietnam Veterans of America. Sarge was a member for 20 years. As a member of Chapter 82, Nassau County, New York, he held many positions. Sarge was secretary of VVA's New York State Council for 12 years. He also served on the state and national Constitution Committees.
As Sarge's deputy, at times I felt like Ben-Hur holding back the chariot's horses during the Coliseum races. Sarge would get some thought in his mind and not stop until he tanked his way through anything in his path to meet his objective.
Harry was promoted to sergeant in 1967. He never forgot the responsibility that went with the title, ever eager and exuberant, ever ready to press forward. The Wolfhounds, the 2/28th Infantry, 25th Division was Sarge's unit. He was proud of the history of his Wolfhounds and proud of his wolfhound tattoo.
People did not often see Sarge's soft, caring, and compassionate side. His love for his Fara was unending. Her grandchildren treated Sarge as a grandfather. Even after he became ill, Sarge would accompany Fara to quilting classes or take her out for dinner. His last word was "Fara,'' his last smile he was in contentment. Sarge left this world and passed on to the peace of the Great Spirit.
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