6 minute read
Patriotic Salute
Patriotic Salute FRED VINES
By Lisa Sydnor
The definition of a Renaissance man, or woman, is a person who is well educated, sophisticated, and has talent and knowledge in many different fields of study. Leonardo da Vinci is noted as an example of a Renaissance man. Fred Vines is a man of many talents and interests; some might even label him a “Renaissance” man. Fred designs and tends to the landscaping of his approximately 21 acres of land near Shawnee. He plants and grows beautiful flower gardens; and mows the acre plus “yard”. He has planted a garden of vegetables including potatoes, tomatoes, and onions, and is harvesting the rewards. Fred is a poet and a photographer who has chronicled his family history through his storytelling. He handles all his affairs for himself and his daughter. Fred is a survivor, a hero, a veteran, and a caregiver; but mostly, he is a kind, loving, humble man. Some might say a true Renaissance man. Fred celebrated his 96th birthday on May 29th.
Fred is very proud of his family’s patriotic commitment to our country. Upon turning 18, while still in high
school, Fred was drafted. He later returned to school and at the age of 22, got his High School diploma. In 1949, Fred and Billie Ruth Massey, married. They had two daughters; Karen and Judy. Judy passed away from cancer in 1968 at the age of 16; Karen has been in a long-term care facility for more than 3 years. Fred and Billie were married 66 years.
Billie was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2008. Caring for Billie at home for the first four years after the Alzheimer’s diagnosis made the decision to move her to a memory care facility very difficult. The progression of Alzheimer’s demanded constant supervision and skilled care, more than Fred could provide for her at home. Billie passed in 2016.
Soon after Billie passed, Fred was again in the role of caregiver. His daughter, Karen Vines, required in-patient long-term care. He has been helping with her care for more than four years. Fred continues daily personal visits with Karen and multiple phone
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conversations. Fred was instrumental in assisting his only grandchild, Andrew, in completing his education and receiving his doctorate in physical therapy from Oklahoma University.
During World War II, Fred and three of his brothers were in the military at the same time. Fred is the only sibling who served in WWII and Korea. Fred’s military service was from September 1944 – November 1946. He served as a PFC in the 40th Division Infantry, 108 Regiment; First Battalion. He spent most of his combat time on the Philippine Islands. From the Philippines, he went to Korea.
Fred is the recipient of the Combat Infantryman Badge; Bronze Star; Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal; Philippine Liberation Medal; World War II Victory Medal; Army of Occupation Medal; Expert Infantryman Badge; Bronze Service Star; Bronze Arrowhead; Honorable Service Lapel Button; and, Trusty Shellback Card.
His nephew, Colonel Brian Vines, Retired, served 20 years in the Army. Brian’s wife, Major Natalie Vines, was medically discharged in 2013, due to injuries
received in Iraq. Fred, Brian, and Natalie all suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD is caused by traumatic events and is characterized by intrusive thoughts about the incident(s), recurrent distress/anxiety, flashbacks, and avoidance of similar situations. Brian’s two sons, Fred’s great-nephews, are carrying their family military service tradition forward as they currently serve in the Marines and in the Army National Guard.
Honor Flight Network recognizes American veterans for their sacrifices and achievements by flying them to Washington, D.C. to see their memorial of service at no cost. Top priority is given to World War II and terminally ill veterans from all wars.
Honor Flight Network has expanded to include Korean War and Vietnam War veterans. In order for Honor Flight Network to achieve this goal, guardians fly with the veterans on every
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flight providing assistance and helping veterans have a safe, memorable, and rewarding experience.
In May 2022, Fred was chosen to participate in the Honor Flight Network. Fred’s nephew, Col. Brian Vines, Retired, was his guardian for this trip. As part of the experience, guardians are offered the opportunity to share information about their veterans. Col. Vines participated saying, “Let me introduce to you my hero, my uncle, Fred Vines.” The Colonel spoke on the many reasons Fred is his hero; including childhood memories, data from combat zone reports, and honors bestowed by a grateful Nation. His words invoked a standing ovation and a parade of fellow passengers who wanted to shake hands and thank a hero veteran and all-around nice guy. Fred stated, “I’ve never considered myself a war hero.” And, that is another reason to honor this humble, kind, loving man; our very own Renaissance man, Fred Vines.
Among his accolades most recently is gracing the cover of the Hughes County Tribune in the June 9, 2022 issue. Fred Vines, veteran, husband, father, son, brother, friend, poet, and storyteller extraordinaire; thank you for your service to our country.
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