John V Couture, Specialist 5, D CO, 1ST BN, 8TH CAVALRY, 1ST CAV DIV, USARV, US Army, Hampton Bays, NY
Johnny was a bright star of a person. He cared deeply for his friends and was a tremendous athlete. Here are a few quotes from those who knew him.
“What I remember most about him was his incredible athletic ability. Back in the day when the bridge across the canal was a steel truss bridge, Johnny would climb to the highest part of the bridge and do a swan dive. Not only was it a thing of beauty but he would dive between the power/telephone wires. We on the other hand could only muster the courage to jump feet first from the road level. In between tours Johnny came in uniform to Canoe Place Inn and had a drink on the house.” E. Terchunian
“John we had some great times together that I will never forget. Diving off the top of the old car bridge all balls no brains. I guess maybe that’s why we both enlisted, of course you had to go back. I miss you my friend.” Kevin Clemenz
“When I asked, why are you going back to ‘Nam? You just came back safely...you told me you couldn't leave your brothers there and be here safe...what I couldn't understand then ..I do now. You are a hero...Thank you for your service and for the example you set.” Terri Gann
“I knew him as a superstar that was kind to seven-year-old boy and showed him how to walk on a bulkhead along the Canal, from Shinnecock Bay to Peconic Bay. A. Terchunian
Fittingly, John's cremated remains were scattered on the Shinnecock Bay.
