PFC LARRY GENE BATCHER, Larry was, born on April 14, 1949, to Virgil and Ruth Batcher. He grew up in Naples, Florida, along with 2 brothers. He was active in local activities. He attended Naples High School and near the end of his schooling he and one of his brothers, ages 17 and 18 decided to join the Army. They both did a tour in Vietnam and returned, but Larry decided to go back for a second tour. That tour began on September 2, 1970, and just a few short weeks later on October 12, 1970, he gave his life for our Country in hostile action in Quang Ngai Province, South Vietnam. He was serving with D CO, 3rd BN, 1ST INFANTRY, 11TH INFANTRY BDE, AMERICAL DIV. He was awarded a Combat Infantry Badge, Purple Heart, National Defense, Vietnam Service, Vietnam Campaign Medals andVietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation. He was the first to be laid to rest in the Naples Memorial Garden’s veterans section, with his name being on the flag pole in the center.