First off I would like to thank Edgar for my being here. And I would also like to thank him for my dad being here as well.  We are both here today because of Edgar. Although I never knew the man, my dad has told me stories of him, his bravery, his toughness, and his genuine care for the soldiers he stood beside.

My dad rarely discusses his combat time in Vietnam, but I have heard stories about Edgar and his fierce tenacity in the face of danger from my dad on numerous occasions. He tells of a man that stood down a North Korean soldier after being bayoneted in the neck during a skirmish during the Korean War who said "Haugie, that made me mad!" I assume since Edgar was in Vietnam telling my dad this story, the North Korean soldier was not as lucky. A man who said "Haugie, you drop that M-14 and run this shotgun, and stay by me!", during a close quarters battle. A soldier by every standard of the word. But also a man with a good heart, who took my dad to visit my Grandpa who was in the Air Force stationed at Tan Son Nhut airbase. My dad had not seen his dad in years, and Edgar escorted him there to visit. He did this during his weekend furlough time, something he did not have to do. He said that the Sarge always said “tighten it up a bit boys!” And that was when it was time to do some business.
My dad says the last time he saw Edgar, he was ready to ship out for home after his tour, and saw him walking, and the two talked for a bit. Dad noticed that Edgar's combat boots were wore completely out, and asked what size her wore. Edgar said “Size 10 Haugie, why?” Well dad had just been issued a new pair of boots, and handed them off to Edgar since his tour was over and was headed home. Edgar said “Thanks Haugie, now I gotta get back to the bush!” And that was the last they ever talked.

My dad always wondered what became of Edgar, (although soldiers have a tendency to not follow up and keep in touch after) so I did some research and found this obituary. I am saddened by the fact that I was not able to tell this to Edgar personally, but feel that I should tell you, (his family) how much I appreciate his service and what he did for my dad. True heroes are by definition "those who when faced with adversity or danger, display courage, and the will for self-sacrifice." I am sure there were many other young soldiers with similar stories of Edgar, but this one is mine. Edgar may you rest in peace. You are my hero!  Keep em tight up there Sarge, and one day, you and dad can have a chat about old times.

With sympathy and the utmost respect,

Jim Haug
jhaug78@gmail.com

Dad,

You will never be forgotten as a father.

Your dedicated patriotism to the United States of America stands as a decorated testimony to all who have and will serve the American people.

Thank you for giving to the world.

Your daughter,

Tonya

Thank you Ed for serving our country so proudly .we loved you. your family. bonnie pat and kathy

I will miss Edgar who always stopped by the reception desk at The Caring Place when he was there.

We will miss seeing your great smile at the reception window at The Caring Place.

Sharron Williams

Thank you, Ed, for your service to our country.

We truly enjoyed having Edgar as a volunteer at The Caring Place.  We will miss him.  Thanks for all the great memories Edgar.

OBITUARY

Edgar "Ed" A. Milstead

July 15, 1928 – August 14, 2012

Cook-Walden Davis Funeral Home

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