THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us…..

Private First Class Juan Leonardo Contreras, Served with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

Dear PFC Juan Contreras,
Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. It is 2018, Happy New Year. It is so important for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

Dear PFC Juan Leonardo Contreras, sir

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for your sacrifice made on behalf of our wonderful country. The youth of today could gain much by learning of heroes such as yourself, men and women whose courage and heart can never be questioned.

May God allow you to read this, and may He allow me to someday shake your hand when I get to Heaven to personally thank you. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love you.

With respect, Sir

Curt Carter

Juan, I never got to know you, but the city of Edinburg has never forgotten you. When I posted tributes on Facebook, honoring the seventeen men from Edinburg who lost their lives in Vietnam, I sent out an urgent request for photos of the men whom I had not been able to find photos. I was told that you were an only child, that you were the first cousin of PFC Victoriano Espinoza, KIA in Vietnam, that you left college to go to Vietnam after Victor was killed. I was horrified and heartbroken as I realized that your grandparents lost two children to this war. One of your high school friends had saved the news clipping about your casualty and shared it with me. That is how I got your picture. As the word spreads, I hope to find out who has the original picture so that I can post a better one. Until then, know that the city does not forget you. We know that you are at rest with your beloved cousin, Victor, and we mourn the loss of both of you.