Lance Corporal Lester Robert Atherden, born on September 6, 1944, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, made the ultimate sacrifice for his country during the Vietnam War. His commitment to the United States Marine Corps began with his enlistment, where he served with unwavering bravery in the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, G Company, part of the 1st Marine Division, III Marine Amphibious Force.
Lester Atherden, whose service number was 2011686, held the rank of Lance Corporal and served as a Machine Gunner. His duty took him to the intense and challenging environments of South Vietnam, where he faced numerous hardships and dangers. On March 4, 1966, in Chau Ngai, 9 kilometers northwest of Quang Ngai City, Lester’s courageous service came to a tragic end when he fell victim to small arms fire during hostile action.
Lance Corporal Atherden’s valor and dedication are memorialized on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall at Panel 5E, Line 100. His name stands as a testament to his sacrifice and the high price of freedom.
He is remembered not only for his service but also for the profound impact he had on those who knew him. Lester was a cherished member of his community in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and his legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the cost of liberty.
The sacrifice of Lester Robert Atherden is honored by all who remember him and by those who visit the memorial where his name is etched in stone. His bravery, selflessness, and commitment to his country remain an enduring legacy.
I am not a veteran. I am a member of the Civil Air Patrol, the United States Air Force Auxiliary. But in 1991, personal loss brought me to a place I never left.
Over two decades later, that loss led me to the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, Connecticut, where I took on the coordination of Wreaths Across America — which grew into the largest and fastest growing veterans program in the state. I didn’t do it for recognition. I did it for them.
In 2016 I founded the Connecticut Veterans Bulletin. Not because I served, but because I believe those who did deserve to be honored, connected, and kept alive.
Twenty-two veterans die by suicide every day. I knew about that number before it became a hashtag. I knew it personally, long before anyone was talking about it.
This publication exists because that number is unacceptable. Because every veteran in Connecticut deserves to know someone gives a damn.
That someone is me.