Served with "L" Company of the 9th Infantry Regiment in Korea. It is believed that he was captured by the enemy when his company was completely surrounded by the Chinese during the night of February 14th near the village of Yoju (in what is now in the Gyeonggi province of South Korea).

While we will likely never know what happened more specifically, it doesn't take a great leap to figure out that "Vessie" was separated from the main body of the company in the darkness and captured. This occurred during "Defending the Wonju Line", which was how the three days from 12-15 February 1951 are described in many US Army records.

"Vessie" was held in the Suan (Bean) POW Camp until his death. His remains have not been located or returned to rest by his parents… but we keep hoping that with improved DNA testing they will be able to identify him and bring him home to the honors he earned.

Until then… Rest In Peace, Uncle "Vessie"! You served your time & did your part; faithfully & well.

SYLVESTER A BRAUN (1930)