"Click on the Unit logo to view that Unit's website"
Michael Stephen Gozdan served as a 2nd Lieutenant - Grade O1
Marine Reserve.
He was 24 years old at the time of his death.
Michael was born in Akron, Ohio on November 23, 1942 . At the time his Mother was living with her Aunt and Uncle Smith. Later the family moved to Canal Fulton, Ohio with his Mother’s parents. After Michael’s Father returned from serving in the Army in WW II, the family, together once again, moved to Canal Fulton to the farm where Michael grew up.
Mike is listed as a resident of Easton, Pa. at the time of his death in Vietnam, as he was stationed in Easton, Pa. as a Marine recruiter piror to Officer Candidate School, a commission, and then Vietnam.
Michael left for Vietnam in April, 1967.
Mike served with K Company, 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division.
as a foward artillery observer.
Michael died on October 6, 1967 from wounds suffered September 27, 1967 in Quang Tri Province, Republic of South Vietnam. He was aboard the
U.S. Navy Hospital Ship, USS Sanctuary at the time of his death.
Michael's death was a result of hostile enemy artillery fire upon his position. A motar round hit an unfinished bunker. That round split a timber that fell on Lt. Michael Gozdan. K Company was under the command of Capt. Austin at that time. "This as remembered by Jack McKenna from Kilo Co. 60mm 4/67-5/68."
His body was recovered.
Michael's religion was Roman Catholic. He was married.
Michael is interred in the St. Phillip and St. James Cemetery
located in Canal Fulton, Ohio
Michael's name is listed on Panel 27E --- Line 60
of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C.
"Rest In Peace Michael You Are Missed By All Who Knew You"
Honors
Michael Stephen Gozdan worked his way up through the ranks from an enlisted recruit to become a Commissioned Officer. Michael followed his Father's footsteps to become a Marine's Marine. Michael served with Honor and Distinction in the defense of His Men, His Country, and of His beloved Corps. His distinguished service earned Michael the following awards:
Purple Heart for wounds received in an armed conflict
Combat Action Ribbon
National Defense Service Medal
Vietnam Service Medal
Vietnam Campaign Ribbon
Good Conduct Medal
The Republic of Vietnam, Military Merit Medal
The Republic of Vietnam, Gallantry Cross with Palm
Please sign this book to leave a personal remembrance for this Hero.
If you have photos of this Hero and want to contribute them, please contact the Webmaster.
We have tried to present the most accurate of information. If you find discrepancies or dead links, please contact the Webmaster.
3rd Marine Division
Michael's Parris Island Graduating Platoon #101 in 1961
"Click on photo to enlarge"
Michael's Parris Island Graduation photo
Michael Gozdan's Funeral Memorial and Bearers Cards
"Click photos to enlarge"
A letter of condolence to Michael's family from his friend Sgt. Walter R. Barr
"Click on the photo to enlarge"
A letter of condolence to Michael's family from
Capt. Randall W. Austin his commanding officer.
"Click on the photo to enlarge"
Michael's Funeral Service Memorial Card, written in part by himself.
"Click on the photo to enlarge"
The U.S.S. Sanctuary
"Clck on the photo to visit the Sanctuary Website"
Left to right, Evan Belville, Glen Gavse, Larry Lawson,
