USMC PFC Francis William Ruch II

The History

USMC PFC Francis William Ruch II was killed while on patrol in Vietnam on April 27, 1966.  He was 19 years old.

The Family

USMC PFC Francis William Ruch was from Utica, NY.  He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Francis William (Rose) Ruch. He was their only child.  His father died four years later.  Mrs. Ruch said that her husband never recovered from the death of their son and died of a broken heart.

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More Story

PFC Ruch attended Utica Free Academy until February of 1965 when he left school to enlist in the Marine Corps.

And More

USMC PFC Francis William Ruch II is buried in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Utica.  Freedom Park will always remember you, Francis, you gave your young life for our country.  You are a hero.

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