Posted by David Sciacchitano on December 4, 2006:

I was a USAF aircraft mechanic with the 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron at Danang Air Force Base, and saw Capt. Sipos off on his last flight. He was one of those remarkable people you know only a short time but never forget, and the whole squadron was hit hard by his death, officers and enlisted men alike. For the most part, there was only professional interaction between mechanics pilots - a kind of friendly, mutual respect, but distant, military and correct. Capt. Sipos was thoroughly professional, but he was a different sort of officer, one who maintained the dignity of his rank while being able to express camaraderie with the enlisted men, and he drew the affection of everyone. He always had a smile and a kind word, talked about his family with great love, and never missed a chance to show us photos of his wife and daughter. And he was one of the bravest of the brave. Truly so. He always arrived on the flight line in a good mood, no matter what he was facing, and he would return from the most dangerous missions with the same smile and a friendly word - not in a cocky way, but like someone who enjoys life. I have always felt so sorry for his daughter in particular, not ever really knowing what a great guy her father was, though I am sure people have told her so. I sent a similar message on Veterans Day to an address of one of Capt. Sipos' classmates that I found on a West Point tribute site, but got no response. Perhaps if you have contact with his widow or daughter and wish to do so, you could pass this along to them. Best regards, David Sciacchitano

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