A Tribute to "Sarge" William O. Buie

As I reflect today, a time that we honor our military past, present and future I think of my own family who has served our country's armed forces.  This ancestral journey has provided me with a roadmap that will last a lifetime.  The armed service is one stop along the way of many more to come.

When people put their lives on the line for their country, to honor them is a way to say "Thank You."  This is a small token of appreciation when they are on the frontline fighting and maintaining for what we know of as Freedom.   We will never forget our heroes. 

William O. Buie, "Sarge" to many that knew him on the battlefield, and civilian life was my Uncle; the family would call him Pamie.   He enlisted in the U.S. Army at an early age, and remained active in this branch of the service until he retired at 24 years of service. 

As a child, I recall Uncle Pamie and Aunt Mary traveling the world as I knew it, from states within the U.S. and countries abroad.  He learned to speak German and French fluently.  When he would return to the States on leave, before returning back to duty, they would stop by our house. When he found out that I was taking French classes, he was overjoyed.  He would say a few words in French, and I would respond back the little that I knew.  He probably knew other languages; however, these two I recall the most.

Uncle Pamie had the most beautiful handwriting.  He was funny, smart, loved chess, poetry, jazz, his dogs and family.  He had a hearty laugh, a connoisseur of food with a pallet for the most unique cuisine. 

In 1950 during his tour of duty in the Korean War Conflict, he was seriously injured by a missile; his rank at the time was a Corporal with the duties of an armorer.  This injury earned him a Purple Heart Medal.  Throughout his career in the U.S. Army, he would earn several other medals and recognitions for his service to our country, The United States of America.

Uncle Pamie was our Hero, and to the little girl who at the time would speak french.  Thank you for your Valor, Courage and Sacrifice.  

R.I.P. Soldier - 1927 - 1991