Col. Kryszak, then Captain Kryszak, was the pilot of an AC-47 gunship which was shot down over land near Ban Phakat, Laos.

Col. Kryszak was held in MIA status from 3 June 1966 until a Presumptive Finding of Death was approved on 18 Jan 1978, almost 12 years later.

He was born on September 23, 1932 in Buffalo, New York

Col. Kryszak is named on The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, on Panel 08E - Line 3

The other crewmen were

1st Lt Russell D. Martin, co-pilot;
Lt. Col Harding E. Smith, navigator;
TSgt Harold E. Mullins, flight engineer;
TSgt Luther L. Rose, aerial gunner; and
SSgt. Ervin Warren, loadmaster

These heroes were buried as a group on November 5th 2004 at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.

The remains of the crew were recovered in 1995 but were too small to positively identify with any one person. Forensic anthropologists concluded after extensive study of the fragments and other evidence that the remains were from all 6 crewmen.

They are remembered with honor and will never, ever be forgotten.

Requiescat in Pace, dear, brave young men.

Submitted by Peggy Strong

For my sake turn again
to life and smile.
Nerving thy heart
and trembling hand to do
something to comfort
other hearts than thine.

Complete these dear
unfinished tasks of mine,
and I, perchance
may therein comfort you.”

http://www.pownetwork.org/bios/k/k041.htm
http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/aircrew-06031966.htm