Dear Editor,

I would like the people of this City, to know that we have lost a good man this past Saturday. He was not a City Leader, Businessman or Politician. Gunner wasn't rich or well known. But he was a good Man and deserves to be remembered. And I for one will never forget this man and fellow Leatherneck.

Walt "Gunner" Rynders was a guy who loved this Country and proved it many times. A Marine Vietnam Veteran , who had a love for Harley Davidson motorcycles and riding. He was loyal to his freinds and he dearly loved his family. And Gunner loved the Marines and anyone who served in the Nam. A warrior who was scarred by war, but never apologized for serving his Country. Just one man out of many that just did his duty and came home to a world that hated him for serving.

I know that Gunner is now next to God and is guarding the gates of heaven. Because he served his time in hell and God loves the Marines. And he is probably sitting on a Heritage Softail Classic, like he always wanted.

Here is an ordinary Hero that I feel was treated very badly by the Veteran Administration for years. The apathy that the VA has towards our Veterans is sickening. Don't take my word for it. Just go visit a VA Hospital or home. My personal view is that the VA didn't do enough for Walt and many other Veterans. It is sad to see how some at the VA view the very people that they are supposed to help. And this country that Gunner and I love so much has let this get to far out of hand. And it has to stop now, before they let other good men down.

So I say goodbye to Gunner. May he rest in peace and I hope to see him again someday. And I hope that this city will take the time to miss him. He was one of us and he deserves to be remembered. A Warrior has went to be with his maker and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Semper Fi Gunner!!!!!!!!!

Robert "Lurch" Lynch
Central Illinois Leathernecks Sgt at Arms