Harold W. Vail

Family of Captain Vail: I was saddened to note the passing of Captain Vail back in 2013. He was the Captain of the USS Oxford when I was stationed on there in 1969 off the coast of Vietnam. I can still picture him, always standing straight with that military bearing. I remember him as a hard line, no nonsense, true military guy. He would let you know in a minute that you should respect the military! I did exchange e-mails with him some years ago in which he was delighted to hear from me...

I still have memories of Commander Vail, as Captain of the USS Oxford AGTR1, during our deployment in 1969, in Vietnam. I can still see him now, with his dog, Foxy, up on the bridge of the ship.

"We should not feel sorry for those who die. God has taken them out of this dangerous and unstable world. We weep for ourselves rather than for those who now benefit from a larger good." ~ St. Teresa of Avila 1571

Mrs. Vail and Family

I am very sadden by the loss of your husband and father. CDR Vail continually pops into my memory whenever I think about my tour in Vietnam aboard the USS Oxford in 1969. I can still see him now, with his dog Foxy, up on the bridge of the ship. He obviously had an impact on my military experience and I will always remember him. Many years ago, I had the privilege of exchanging emails with him. I was most thankful that he took the time to write. I thanked him for...