For nearly four decades, Kathy Strong has worn a silver bracelet, honoring a man she had never met. It all began on Christmas Day in 1972, when a young Strong received a POW/MIA bracelet in her Christmas stocking from Santa. Little did she know, this simple gift would lead her on a journey to fulfill a promise and honor a fallen soldier.
Strong shared her story at the 105th Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony in Arlington Heights, Illinois, where veterans, their families, and the community gathered to pay tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for their country. She spoke about why she was compelled to ensure that Sergeant First Class James Moreland was never forgotten.
“I slipped the bracelet on my left wrist with the simple promise that I would wear it until he came home from Vietnam. Of course, I had no idea it would take over 38 years to fulfill that promise,” Strong said.
James Moreland, a Green Beret serving in South Vietnam, went missing on February 7, 1968, when his camp came under attack. He was only 22 years old. For 43 years, he was listed as MIA, until the Army declared him dead in 1978. It wasn’t until May 2011, after DNA tests confirmed that his remains had been found, that Moreland was finally repatriated, according to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.
“I wore James Moreland’s bracelet for 38 years until he came home,” said Strong, who buried the bracelet with him at his funeral in his home state of Alabama.
Through local reporting, Strong was connected with Moreland’s siblings. It was his sister, Linda, who ultimately informed Strong that his body had been found. This news only strengthened Strong’s determination to honor Moreland’s memory.
“Now, I’m on a mission to honor him in all 50 states. Today marks my 38th state, Illinois,” said Strong.
Her next stops include Lincoln, Nebraska in June and Ennis, Montana in July. Strong carefully chooses each location, making sure to honor Moreland in meaningful ways. In every state, she places a memorial brick in his honor.
When asked why she chose Arlington Heights, Strong explained that she was drawn to the eternal flame bronze sculpture in Memorial Park. She also expressed her appreciation for the large turnout at the annual parade and ceremony.
“It’s heartwarming to see that people still care,” said Strong.
Strong’s dedication to honoring Moreland’s memory is truly inspiring. Her mission to visit all 50 states and place a memorial brick for him is a testament to her unwavering promise to never forget him.
As Strong continues on her journey, she hopes to spread awareness about the sacrifices made by soldiers like Moreland and the importance of honoring their memory. She also hopes to inspire others to never forget the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve their country.
In a world where it’s easy to get caught up in our own lives, Kathy Strong’s story serves as a reminder to always remember and honor those who have given their lives for our freedom. Let us all join her in honoring Sergeant First Class James Moreland and all the fallen soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
