"I AM WHERE I WANT TO BE" - is a quote from a letter sent by Ollie Noonan Jr., from Vietnam. 

Such a quotation would seem to fit this young, energetic and inquisitive photo journalist. 

"A news photographer's news photographer." 

To add more would be superfluous. Yet, much, much more could be added, should be added. 

Ollie Noonan Jr., was a master craftsman. He had learned his lessons well from a father who had devoted the greater part of his lifetime to recording on film, the news of the day. 

He became a staff photographer with the Boston Globe. Shortly thereafter he switched to the Herald Traveler, and, once again, back to the Globe. 

Ollie Jr., was restless. 

He asked the management of the Globe for a "leave of absence" in order to serve overseas as a correspondent news photographer in Vietnam. A request he was granted. 

The decision, we feel sure, was Ollie's. 

"Who of us is to question that decision?" Question the decision of this young man who had contributed so much in so short a span of time. 

For, just as assuredly as each of us must lead his life, - Ollie was entitled to lead his, - to make his own decision. 

As fate would have it, on August 19th, 1969, Ollie Noonan Jr., gave his life while serving as a correspondent news photographer. The army helicopter in which he was a passenger was shot down over enemy territory, thirty miles south of DaNang, South Vietnam. 

He was president of the Boston Press Photographers Association at the time. 

In perpetuating his memory, the Boston Press Photographers Association is, tonight, initiating an award, THE PRESIDENT'S AWARD. To be presented annually to the Press Photographer of the Year, and, to the Newsreel Cameraman of the Year. 

With a feeling of deep sorrow, while at the same time honored and proud, the Boston Press Photographers Association perpetuates the name of Oliver Noonan Jr., "a news photographer's news photographer." 

LAST ROLL OF FILM. Three pictures taken from roll of film, Ollie Noonan Jr.'s camera, which was recovered at scene of crash in Song Chang Valley. 

OLIVER NOONAN SR. 

Young Ollie followed in the footsteps of his Dad. He became a news photographer. A member of the Boston Press Photographers Association. Ollie Sr., is presently retired, and a life member of this association.