A Soldier's Story: First Lieutenant James Robert Kalsu - Vietnam War

 

First Lieutenant James Robert Kalsu was born on April 13, 1945, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He graduated in 1963 from Del City High School and the University of Oklahoma in 1967. He was a noted football player throughout high school and college. He was named All-American in 1967 and was drafted in 1967 by the Buffalo Bills. First Lieutenant James Robert Kalsu earned the title "Rookie of the Year" in 1968.

He was also a member of the ROTC in college and, after the 1968 season, began active duty with the US Army. First Lieutenant Kalsu deployed to South Vietnam in November 1969.

He would die during his service on July 21, 1970, from heavy artillery fire during the Battle of Fire Support Base Ripcord.

First Lieutenant James Robert Kalsu rests at the Resthaven Garden Cemetery in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller currently living in Salem, Virginia. 

In addition to the travel writings at www.takethebackroads.com, you can also read her book reviews at www.riteoffancy.com and US military biographies at www.everydaypatriot.com

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