Arden Keith Hassenger

D*O*B
5/15/1936

Rank
Ssgt. Arden Hassenger

He was a loving and devoted
father, brother, husband and
friend.

Date of loss:
12/24/1965

Arden Hassenger was born in 1936 in Lebanon Oregon, he attended Lebanon High School. Soon after he graduated he enlisted into the air force to serve for his country. On December 24, 1965, President Lyndon Johnson announced a week long bombing halt on North Vietnam. The same day, an AC47D known as "Spooky"gunship was shot down during an armed reconnaissance flight just south of Saravane Province, Laos. Planes in the area of the loss heard mayday signals, but could not contact with the crew. The Spooky lost in Laos on December 24, 1965 was flown by Col. Derrel B.Jeffords and Capt. Dennis L. Eilers.

The crew members aboard the aircraft was Maj.Joseph Christiano, MSgt. Larry C. Thornton, TSgt. W. Kevin Colwell, and SSgt. Arden K. Hassenger. All these soldiers are still missing and waiting to be brought home.

Dear Arden,

What started out as a project that I just wanted to complete and get turned in turned into a journey that has been a life changing experience that has not only touch my heart but everyone’s heart. It has been a honor to get to know you and your family, in a way I never thought possible. I have learned so much about you and I have gained so much knowledge and respect for your service to our country. I learned all about you, your sister Marchetta and your brother playing in the snow, long trips to school and your love for sports. I’m sure your grandkids and great grandkids that Keith was telling me about would have loved to played games with you and get to know your great loving personality. You are loved by many and you have left a impression in all of our hearts and all though you are lost you will never be forgotten.
Love,
Ashley