Donald Craig Parcells

West Point, 1965

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by John Briar on November 8, 2017:

11.08.17 I am very saddened to discover that Don left us early. I served with Don in the 7/11 artillery in fire direction control when he was the FDC officer. When I met him what immediately stuck me was his wonderful attitude and great laugh and smile. He always kept things light and as much fun as we could have given the circumstances we were in. I met Don when he returned from recuperation from his injuries to his legs that he received as a forward observer if my memory serves me correctly. I always thought I was a pretty good 20-year old athlete and we used to kid each other about how fast we were and how I knew I could beat him in a race because I was smaller and lighter. After all how could a guy of his large physical stature out run me. Well we had that race and it was a big event in our battery area. To my surprise it was all I could do to win the race by a nose. The term officer and a gentleman is used in the military on occasion. Don exemplified that term. Born leader. We would have done anything for Don because we knew he would do the same for us. Maybe a potential football life was changed due to his injuries in the war but I am confident that God had a plan for him that had great meaning. I will always remember that wonderful smile! God bless you, Don!!! We race again together some day. Specialist 5th class , John Briar

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