Joel was a young Black Man from South Texas down near Houston. I'm not sure how close to Houston but that doesn't matter. He was a bit older than me, but had alot of energy. He was a damn good dog handler-I trusted him. His dog was good too!

However, what he was really good at was playing the piano. He used to play at the Red Cross before we went to work and draw an incredible crowd. It turns out that Joel played for Archie Bell and was a true professional. Joel was one of the most humble and yet talented people I have ever met.

However, it was more than just talent---everyone in the 35th SPS K-9 liked Joel (everyone on the base liked Joel!). He was special. He had carizzma! He always had a smile on his face and something good to say about everyone. He talked about his family and was very devoted. One of his favorite songs that he played on the piano was called "Eleanor". He really cooked on this and had everyone rocking!

I left Phan Rang in April of 1969 and went to Hickam AFB in Hawaii. Joel was KIA in June of 1969 and word traveled very fast througout PACAF. When an SP, especially a K9, got KIA the info hit the "street" fast.

I was on a three day break when I heard the news about Joel. No one saw me for three days, until I went back to duty. I cried for three days (and I was f-uped for three days too). It is very hard for me to talk about this even now. Very, Very hard, and I'm not ashamed to say I still cry and grieve for Joel.

In 1994 I finally got to The WALL in D.C. and got to say goodbye to Joel. But it really wasn't goodbye, it was really saying, "Thanks, I'll see ya soon, wait for me".

I guess this is a bit of a tribute for Joel, and hope it helps to remember him.

Craig Lord