Big Spring Vietnam Memorial

Charlie Lewis, founding member and driving force of the Big Spring Vietnam Memorial Committee, dear friend and brother, and a fine Marine has passed away. You will be missed and always remembered. Rest in peace. Semper Fi 🇺🇸

From the mud of World War II, through the frozen hills of Korea, to the jungles of Vietnam—Raymond Winfield Barlow Jr. never wavered. A son of Celina, Tennessee, he bore the burden of three wars, rising again and again to stand with his brothers in arms.

In 1967, during the thunder of Operation Junction City in Bình Dương Province, Barlow once more proved his steel. The Purple Heart, Bronze Star, and Army Commendation Medal marked his path, but it was his unshakable devotion to duty that defined him.

On April 27, 2008, at the age of 80, Barlow’s long march came to an end. Laid to rest in Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, his story endures as a banner of valor and patriotism—etched forever into the legacy of the American soldier.

📷 Photos: Jacobus CO Rentmeester, LIFE Magazine

Subject identified by World War Pictures