To the editor:

Thanks for publishing the May 25 article, “KU and Vietnam.” Dwight “Rick” Rickman (KU Class of 1969) and my husband served together as lieutenants in 1st Reconnaissance Battalion at Camp Pendleton, Calif. Rick and his wife, Bev, graciously welcomed us into their circle of close friends.

Rick introduced us to the music of Leo Kottke and to his love for antique furniture. Needing furniture, Rick convinced me to buy two old dressers saying that something great would be under all of that grime. He was right! These dressers were moved 16 times in 32 years, and I still love and use them. Only now, the top drawer holds Rick’s MIA bracelet which I wore for years.

First Lt. Dwight Rickman was with ANGLICO as the AO (aerial observer) on an aircraft which was shot down on Dec. 25, 1972, (during the ceasefire). While at my parents’ home in southeast Kansas for Christmas, the Joplin (his hometown) TV station made the announcement. He has never been found. 

So, if you are fortunate enough to get tickets to the upcoming Leo Kottke concert at the Lied Center, think of Dwight “Rick” Rickman — a good man, a good Marine, a good friend!