IN MEMORY

Gary Meckler

Gary Meckler

Gary Meckler died on July 24, 2019, in Reno. 

Gary attended our Golden Grad Events in May 2018 as well as our Reunion in September.

The following was included in a program at his memorial service which took place on August 26, 2019 at the Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Gary S. Meckler Joined the US Army on 19 November 1969, and found himself in Vietnam seven months later.  He served in country from June 1970 until January 1972 in the Army Security Agency (ASA).  He rotated "Stateside" and was later honorably ischarged as a Communications Center Specialist at Fort Hood, Texas on 16 November 1973.

During his two tours in Vietnam, Gary was exposed to Agent Orange which was eventually diagnosed as complications of blood cancer.  After a prolonged and often painful struggle, lasting years, Agent Orange eventually took his life. 

After discharge from the Army, Gary worked in Las Vegas and Reno as an accountant in the gaming industry and worked in the Human Relations Departments in various industries in Nevada.  He also worked in the property management field in Reno until his death.

Gary was a proud American, a proud Vietnam Veteran and a prized member of every organization he ever served with.  Gary was known for his extreme optimism in every situation, his wit, and his love of his fellow man.

He served in positions of responsibility in many organizations in the Reno area.  Some of those organizations are the Ronald McDonald House, Keep Truckee Meadows Beautiful,l Food Bank of Northern Nevada, the Coin Club of Reno, Northern Nevada Verterans Cemetery and the Men's Club at Temple Emanu-el.

As a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America (Sierra Nevada Chapter 989), Gary served for years both on the Board of Directors, and also as a member of the Color Guard.  His pet project and perhaps what he will most be remembered for was as Chairman of the Chapter's "Holiday Gift Basket" program.

Chapter 989 is pleased to confirm tat the "Gary Meckler Holiday Gift Basket Program" (benefiting deserving members of the Guard and Reserve components in the Reno Area) will continue in the coming years.  The Gift Basket Program provides a hearty holiday meal and gifts for all members of the recipient military family during the Holiday Season.

Gary also left explicit instructions detailing what was to be done with his estate, ensuring that he'll be helping others as he moves on to a new chapter in his journey.

Sgt. Gary S. Mckley Military Awards

--Army Meritorious Service Medal

--Army Commendation Medal

--National Defense Service Medal

--Vietnam Service Medal

--Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm

--Republic of Vietnam Service Medal

--Expert Marksmanship Medal (rifle)