Richard L. Maple, Sr.

Wearing the First Cavalry Patch
I was saddened today to learn of the passing of our friend and comrade in arms Richard (Dick) Maple. Dick was a good guy and I am sure he will be missed tremendously by the family he loved so much and was so proud of.
I was thinking back to the days in Vietnam 46 years ago. We were all young, strong and full of resolve to accomplish our mission. Dick was with "us" the guys wearing

Wearing the First Cavalry Patch
I was saddened today to learn of the passing of our friend and comrade in arms Richard (Dick) Maple. Dick was a good guy and I am sure he will be missed tremendously by the family he loved so much and was so proud of.
I was thinking back to the days in Vietnam 46 years ago. We were all young, strong and full of resolve to accomplish our mission. Dick was with "us" the guys wearing the "Cav" patch. Back then that patch on the left shoulder carried a lot of responsibility. It sometimes felt like it weighed a ton when you had to put your shoulder into something. You would be straining and then you'd look around and there would be several other "Cav" patches pushing with you and that weight began to feel like a feather. After you served your tour and returned stateside you moved that patch to the right shoulder and wore it proudly. Some of us wore it home and it hangs in the closet today. Others of us wore it on to our next assignments and throughout our careers. All of us though carried that First Cavalry spirit with us forever. When you run into a "Cav" guy you share a camaraderie that tells you this guy will put his shoulder into the challenge with you and will carry more than his fair share. Dick Maple shouldered more than his fair share and could always be counted on.
Somewhere in Heaven there is a magnificent mountain lush and green silhouetted by a beautiful blue sky. High on the side of the mountain at the top is a First Cavalry Division Patch put there by our brothers in arms that have gone on before us. Rest in peace Dick Maple we'll all get together again someday.
Philip T. Sparks,
1SG, U.S. Army (retired)

RIP.

As The Artist in Residence for Flanner and Buchanan Funeral Centers I extend my sincere condolences to your family. Please consider having myself create a photomontage for the remembrance of your beloved Richard. You may see a selection of my "kindred collages" at

http://markemmetfoster.com

Thank you

Mark Emmet Foster

(317) 629 0019

Remember u sitting on your porch waving HI !! also fishing by the lake

I love and miss you Dad!!!! R.I.P. Dick Maple 10/15/46-4/5/2012. You are gone but NEVER forgotten, Your Baby Girl!

The photo in his obituary is just how I remember Dick. I just know he is up in Heaven right now reminiscing with his old 1st Cav buddies. He's sorely missed down here, though.

Dear Maple Family,

There are few things more difficult than dealing with the loss of a loved one. We, along with our staff, are honored and humbled that you have chosen our family to care for your family during this time. It is our hope that we have been able, in some small way, to lighten your burden and give proper reverence to a life lived. Please let us know if we can be of further service.

Respectfully,

Brian and Bruce Buchanan
4th Generation Owners
info@flannerbuchanan.com