Your article “Bracelets find soldier’s family” in the Sept. 24 newspaper was of great interest to me.

I was one of many U.S. citizens who were concerned about the Vietnam War. I had friends and family serving in that war, so the fact that there were soldiers who were prisoners of war or missing in action was very disturbing to me. Wearing a bracelet with one of their names was a way to honor their sacrifice.

I received my bracelet while at college in Boston in the ’70s. It said “LT. TERENCE HANLEY 1-1-68.”

At that time, I knew nothing more about the man.

Several years later, my mother told me that she worked at the Maine Heart Association with Hanley’s aunt, Phyllis Hanley. I was astounded that I had ended up with his name on my bracelet.

I have worn this bracelet yearly at the Maine Vietnam veterans vigil, which is now held at the Lisbon VFW. Lt. Hanley’s symbolic empty chair is still on the platform, and I still stand in place when his name is read. It’s the least, and the best, I can do to honor his memory. I am glad to now know more about his story.

While I agree with Stephen Hanley’s assessment of the effectiveness of the Vietnam War, I feel strongly that it is imperative to never give up and I fully support the continuing efforts to correct this stain on America’s soul by insisting on full accountability and disclosure.

We should never cease looking for answers, remains and information.

Thank you again to the Hanleys, and every other family who sacrificed for this and every other war.

Maybe one day, mankind will finally find a solution so that these sacrifices will not be needed.

Elizabeth Campbell

China

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