My walk today was dedicated in honor of:
Marine GSGT Joseph F. Covella, Age 37 of New York, NY.
KIA Jan. 3, 1966 Vietnam
He is honored at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall on Panel 4E, Line 52
He is buried in the Arlington National Cemetery.
Joseph enlisted in the Marines 31 July 1950 and served in the Korean War with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, where he received the Silver Star Medal for actions 20 September 1951.
When Joseph arrived in Vietnam, he was assigned to USMC Advisor Unit, Naval Adivsor Group, MACV and attached to 3rd Battalion, 1st Regiment, 1st ARVN Infantry, as military advisor. Joseph died as a result of gunshot wounds to the body from hostile rifle fire when his unit encountered a large hostie force south of Que Son.
GySgt Covella served his country for 18 years.
He was awarded the Silver Star for his actions during the Korean War.
He received the Navy Cross Citation and the Bronze Star Citation for his actions during the Vietnam War.
He also received the Purple Heart while in Vietnam.
Even tho the temp was not in the 60’s like it was yesterday, and we got sleet, rain, and snow on us today. We still had an amazing 10.52 mile walk. I want to thank my friend Robert for walking with us and I want to thank everyone that Honked, Waved, and saluted in helping me honor this Hero. It was amazing.
Marine GSGT Joseph F. Covella will not be forgotten !
Tim
Thank you so much for honoring my father. It truly means so much that although he is gone he will never be forgotten after 55 years.
My older brother and myself retired from the U. S. Marine Corps. It was an honor to follow my father and brother’s footsteps and serve our GREAT NATION.
Thank you again for honoring him.
Thank you for showing recognition to a great Patriot!