Military Veterans

Richard Lew Kane

Date of Birth

1 October 1946

Date of Death

8 October 2009

Brick Location

Liberty Side

Panel Number

25B

Biography

Lance Corporal Richard Lew Kane served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1964 to 1968, including a tour in Vietnam.  Rick became Lance Corporal while he was on USS Oriskany Aircraft Carrier (CVS34), January 1966.  In October 1966, the USS Oriskany had a disastrous fire break out while at sea.  Kane helped men get out on stretchers, saving many lives.  Bombs and equipment were pushed in the ocean.  They lost 43 officers and enlisted personnel, including a Catholic Priest, Father Garrity, who was Rick's best friend.  All men were buried at sea.  After four years of service, Rick re-enlisted and was deployed to Vietnam October 1967 for over eight months.  He was discharged Spring 1970.

In addition to the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Navy Unit Citation (1st and 2nd awards), Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, he also a USS Oriskany Letter of Commendation.

Rick died in 2009 from lung cancer. v>

Branch:

U.S. Marines Corps

Awards and Medals

Rank

Lance Corporal

Years

Vietnam War—

Duty

K Company 3/7