Dedication of Memorial Tree for Garrett "Gary" Lee

Garrett "Gary" Lee was an Eagle Scout from Troop 510 in Kingsford, MI. He went on to Northern Michigan University where he became president of Iota Chi Chapter of the national service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega which was founded on the principles of the Boy Scouts. After graduating, he moved to Chicago where he began his career. He was drafted in to the Army and sent to Vietnam with the First Cavalry. He was killed in action in the Battle of Ia Drang on November 17, 1965.

This is Gary's Court of Honor with Scoutmaster Floyd Schultz on the right of the Scouts.

Gary's APO brothers felt there should be a memorial on campus to Gary to remind future generations of his valor, sacrifice, and service. The NMU foundation has recently began a memorial tree program. Through a major contribution from Chapter 380 of the Vietnam Veterans of America and other gifts from APO members, Scouters, and friends of the family, the memorial became a reality. It was dedicated on June 25, 2011.

The most recent Eagle Scout from Troop 510, Richard Louys III, learned of Gary's youth from his relatives and related stories of Gary's sense of adventure and bravery.

Larry Collister, who earned his Eagle Award in Pennsylvania, commanded the color guard for the VVA. He presented a letter from Lt Gen (ret) Hal Moore to Gary's sister, Carol Gayan, and brother, Don Lee. Gen Moore commanded the 1-7th Cavalry in the Battle of Ia Drang and authored the book, "We Were Soldiers Once...and Young." The book was subsequently made into the movie of the same name. Veteran Scouter Marvin Gibson represented the Council.

Larry Collister eloquently spoke on behalf of the veterans.

Al Salmi, an Eagle Scout from Rock, APO brother of Gary, and ride captain for the Patriot Guard Riders was the primary initiator of the memorial. He spoke movingly of the purpose of the Patriot Guard and conveyed condolances to the family.

The bothers of Alpha Phi Omega joined in the fraternity's song.