Buddy Duane Pyeatt was a young man with great love for his country. Devoted to the founding principles of this nation, he gave his life to preserve what he held in such high regard. Born June 4th 1943 Buddy was the first of 5 children to Robert & Alice Pyeatt. Growing up he enjoyed singing and playing the steel guitar. He sang often with his younger sister, Sharon both at church and at home. Buddy also enjoyed fast cars and would race around the country roadds by his home. He always had a smile on his face, and his humor waws so contagious you would often find yourself smiling in his company. Buddy had a great passion for life and put forth his best efforts with what he did. While attending college he was the Christ Ambassadors leader for the youth group. In 1965 Buddy enlisted in the Navy and on August 13th completed basic training. Buddy was named Honor man of Recruit of Company 237 and appointed rank Chief Petty Officer. He then attended US Naval Aviation Officer Candidate School with the 1st Battalion Candidate Regiment. While there he performed the duties of Battalion Commander on June 23rd 1966 was appointed the rank of Candidate Lieutenant Commander. He completed Naval Air Basic Training on January 13th 1967. Buddy was designated Naval Flight Officer on April 19, 1967, receiving his Wings from his Mother. His position was that of Airborne Radar Intercept Officer. Lt.j.g. Buddy D. Pyeatt completed 80 missions while on his first tour of Viet Nam with 96th Fighter Squadron aboard the USS Enterprise. He received numerous Air Medals for his missions during that tour. Buddy was returning for his second tour of Viet Nam when the explosion occurred on his plane on January 14, 1969. Buddy willingly gave his life for his country.