John-VESSEY-Obituary

John William VESSEY Jr.

Pittsboro, North Carolina

1922 - 2016

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Pittsboro, North Carolina

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John William Vessey, Jr. born June 29, 1922, a retired Army general who was the nation's top military officer as the tenth chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 1982 to 1985, died the 18th day of August, 2016 in North Oaks, Minnesota at the age of 94. His beloved wife of 69 years, Avis C....

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He changed my life from the first time I met him and briefed him at Camp Page, Korea. I was a SSG, he later wrote me a letter of recommendation for Warrant Officer. I met him again while stationed as a new WO1 at Fort Huachuca, AZ, he saw me across a room filled with the post's officers there to welcome his visit. He by-passed all the brass to come talk with me meet my wife and congratulate me on becoming a Warrant Officer stunning all in attendance. Yes he was/is a soldiers' soldier a great...

I miss you every day Boss and I will continue to miss you until I am again under your command in heaven.

Hard to believe it has been 5 years. Still think of this GREAT Soldier and FRIEND a lot. When I think of General Vessey I think of him like other do of General Bradley "A Soldiers Soldier" - General Vessey took care of his men ALWAYS! Still missed -- Pete

Audrey and I offer heart-felt condolences to the Vessey family at this difficult time.

I interpreted for General Vessey many times during his posting as commander of U.S. and U.N. forces in Korea. Interpreting, perforce, opens a door to a man's soul. And I never encountered a soul steeped in more integrity.

If I had a concern, it was that the General's homespun humor was not going to cross the cultural barrier into Korean, and that was the precise purpose of his bonhomie,...

The fact that General Vessey was a great Patriot, Soldier, and Statesman is well known. But he was so much more! A mentor and coach to so many of us, his quiet demeanor was an example for all. He led by example; tolerant, patient, and understanding, he gently shoved us toward the correct solutions. Humble and kind, he and Avis willingly shared themselves with subordinates never being aloof nor condescending. I don't recall one time that he ever sought recognition for himself as his...

I first met General Vessey when he was Commander US Forces Korea. I was introduced to him by my 1SG Jerry P. Hurley who severed with the General in Vietnam when the General was a young officer. When I applied for Warrant Officer, General Vessey as Vice Chief of Staff of the Army wrote an endorsement letter for me to the Warrant Officer board, the rest is history.
While attending the retirement ceremony at the Pentagon a few years ago for my friend Frank Angelo I was talking with General...

I am so sorry for your loss. I hope Jer. 29: 11,12 brings you comfort during this difficult time.

From the Officers and Members of the Air America Association, our sympathy and respect. L.Michael Kandt, General Secretary/chaplain.

Camp Ripley, MN 2007

The Vessey Family,
May you find peace in your Father's passing. My Father, who passed away in 2011, served with the General in the 34th Division during WWII. They last saw each other in 2007 at Camp Ripley, MN where I was honored to meet General Vessey. Please take comfort that your Father's life, truly has made the world a better place.