by: Gayla Sue Mendez

This past week Veterans Helping Veterans was honored to build a wheelchair ramp for Vietnam Veteran, U.S. Marine Corps, LCpl Larry Tate.
Larry Tate’s story is one of commitment, sacrifice, and resilience. Tate entered service in March 1968 at Marine Barracks NTC Great Lakes, Michigan and graduated from Land Mine Warfare School as an Anti-Tank Assaultman. Soon after, Tate deployed to Vietnam and found himself surrounded by heavy combat during the era of the war known as the Tet Offensive.

During Tet 1969, the U.S. Marines played a crucial role in the conflict, including Operation Bold Mariner, which involved U.S. Marines deployment to key providences, such as Quảng Trị – one of the most contested areas during the Vietnam War, located in the northernmost province of South Vietnam, near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). For months, U.S. forces were engaged in conducting search and destroy missions in heavy close combat with gorilla forces.

On February 15, 1969, LCpl Larry Tate was wounded by shrapnel while on patrol. The soldier ahead of him stepped on a landmine, tragically losing his life. Tate was medevacked from the battlefield. For his bravery, LCpl Tate was awarded the Purple Heart. Additionally, Tate is the recipient of the Good Conduct Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Sharpshooter Badge.

The Legacy of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines
Larry Tate served in the legendary 1st Marine Division, which included the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines (2/1)—a battle-hardened infantry battalion with a long tradition of service that continued from World War II, Korea, and later conflicts – including Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. Tate’s service connects him to the long-standing brotherhood of Marines who have fought, sacrificed, and upheld their commitment to a grateful nation.

A Love Story Born in Service
While Larry was deployed, his cousin, Mickey, asked Ann to write to him—a simple act that changed both their lives. Ann, from Alabama, wanted to support the war effort and agreed. Their letters became a bond that deepened over time.

Upon Larry’s return from Vietnam, they married and built a life together, raising two sons, Brent and Heath. Larry went on to serve in career as a Security Officer, while Ann devoted 21 years as a Lunchroom manager at Caldwell School – a true story of love and loyalty.

Honoring the Service of Larry Tate
Decades after Vietnam, Larry now faces another battle—brain cancer, likely caused by exposure to Agent Orange. As his mobility became difficult, the family struggled to get him down their stairs, prompting a request for a wheelchair ramp. Veterans Helping Veterans immediately stepped up to make sure Tate had a well-built ramp. At the completion of the project, Larry proudly returned the salute of the veteran volunteers.

Larry’s story is one of sacrifice, resilience, and devotion—a Marine who faced war, returned to a loving woman he had only know through letters, raised a family, and continues to inspire those around him.

Because once a Marine, always a Marine.

About Veterans Helping Veterans
Veterans Helping Veterans is a dedicated group committed to supporting fellow veterans by assisting with critical needs such as wheelchair ramps, home accessibility improvements, and other services that enhance quality of life at no cost for those who have served. Their mission is simple: No veteran should struggle alone. If you know a veteran in need of a wheelchair ramp or home accessibility support, please contact Veterans Helping Veterans to request assistance.

Together, we continue to honor the spirit of service by ensuring our heroes can live with dignity and independence. The point of contact is James Blackburn, 256-244-4476.