PFC John Edward Oocumma, Vietnam Veteran, Native of Cherokee, NC.

Private First Class John Edward Oocumma was a casualty of the Vietnam War. As a member of the Army Selective Service and a Draftee, PFC Oocumma served our country until February 16th, 1967 in Quang Ngai, South Vietnam. He was 25 years old and was not married. It was reported that John died from small arms fire or grenade. His body was recovered. John was born on July 9th, 1941 in Cherokee, North Carolina. PFC Oocumma is on panel 15E, line 049 of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. He served our country for less than a year.

Just sharing his story: John Edward Oocumma was a member of A Company, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. He and 20 other men were killed in action during Operation Sam Houston. Angela Kraft.

He attended Washington College Academy in Limestone, Tennessee. He was a friend and a schoolmate: To 'Chief': We all knew him as Chief. A full blooded Cherokee Indian. Thanks for allowing me to be a part of your life! Frank Jablonski, 635 Belgrove Drive Kearny NJ 07032, Fjablonski@comcast.net

He was the son of Mr Homer Mrs Fannie Oocumma Rattler Powell, Route #1, Cherokee, NC. Brother to Jackie.

He served with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, USARV.

He was awarded The Combat Infantryman's Badge(CIB), The Purple Heart Medal for his combat related wounds, The Vietnam Service Medal, The Republic of Vietnam Campaign Service Medal, The National Defense Service Medal and The Good Conduct Medal.

Burial:
Yellow Hill Cemetery
Cherokee
Swain County
North Carolina, USA

John E Oocumma