Silent Support for Fallen Air Force Colonel
By: Caroline Tucker
Updated: June 28, 2012
Earlier this month, News 8 sat down with Barbara Annechino, the daughter of Colonel Joseph Christiano.
The U.S. Air Force colonel went missing in action in 1965.
Just this year, his family was notfied that the military found where his plane went down.
Just this week, an anonymous package arrived at the News 8 studios with a gift for Col. Christiano's family.
On Friday, News 8's Caroline Tucker brought the package to Barbara to return something that was saved for two decades.
Barbara carefully untied the patriotic ribbon on the small jewelry box.
"Oh my gosh, the print is all worn off. It looks like she polished it," said Barbara Annechino.
Inside, was a small silver bracelet marked with her father's name, rank, and the date he went missing.
Barbara said she knew people wore her father's missing in action bracelet, but she never knew how many.
This was the first to be returned to her following the news that some of his remains may have been found.
"It's unbelievable and she said that she wore it for 20 years," said Barbara.
She read part of the letter sent to her by the woman, who wanted to remain anonymous.
It read, "I pray you peace and closure..."
Barbara said receiving the bracelet was very emotional.
She never forgot her father and now knows others did not either.
"It's been almost 47 years, it's kind of hard to believe that people after all these years have still held on and still remember," said Barbara.
Colonel Joseph Christiano's plane went down in a rural spot in Laos in 1965.
Five crew members were on board.
Fragments of the crash and some remains were recovered this spring.
Everything will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery on July 9.
Barbara said the bracelet brings back memories that help with her grief and closure.
"Having peace of mind, having something that we can do for the men and the men who were on his crew, helps a lot," said Barbara through tears.
Barbara said the bracelet will forever stay in the family.
"Maybe someone will want to wear it or maybe I can showcase it in some way," said
And even though the gift is anonymous, she is eternally thankful.
"Your support has been silent, I can't tell you how much I appreciate it, did this for 20 years on behalf of my dad is amazing to me," said Barbara.
The Christiano family will travel to Arlington National Cemetery for a ceremony on July 9.
It will also be the first time they will meet the other families who lost loved ones during the crash.
