Vietnam Marine's Grave Marker

Ralford John Jackson, a Hopi born in Old Oraibi, AZ, was killed in action in Vietnam on May 22, 1969. Ralford, along with 241 other Marines and soldiers, was memorialized in the June 27, 1969 issue of LIFE Magazine - “One Week’s Toll.” Ralford was survived by his two daughters, his mother, ten sisters and brothers, and now numerous nieces and nephews. His spirit remains with the family every day.

Ralford was a hero in the true sense of it. One of his buddies from Vietnam said - “I am alive today because of Ralford - no doubt about it.” 

Unfortunately, his VA grave marker, issued in 1969, had the wrong state - Utah - instead of Arizona. It is time for that to be fixed. One of his high school friends and I have worked to get this done for the family.

This new design, carved in gray limestone, will fix the mistake as well as recognize his membership in the parrot clan and display an inverted eagle feather symbolizing a fallen hero. 

The VA would likely provide a replacement but not with the carved symbols important to the family. He and they deserve this culturally unique memorial.

The $3500 goal is set to have the designed stone carved and shipped to Old Oriabi and to fund the Hopi and military ceremony for the replacement.

Any funds over the costs will be given to the Jackson family.