THE WALL OF FACES

First Lieutenant Dan L.F. Coombs III, Served with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, United States Army Vietnam.

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.

CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Dan L. F. Coombs, III, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 12 August 1970 while serving as a pilot with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Lieutenant Coombs was in his light observation helicopter. Flying cover for elements of the Aero-Rifle Platoon on the ground. Flying at dangerously low altitudes, he placed accurate suppressive fire upon enemy positions and marked the enemy locations with smoke grenades. As a medical evacuation helicopter entered the area, Lieutenant Coombs then proceeded to provide accurate and suppressive covering fire for the craft. Though dangerously low on fuel, Lieutenant Coombs continued to shield the rescue ship by maneuvering his helicopter between the enemy ground fire and the craft. He then continued on station, accurately calling in artillery strikes, until another helicopter could relieve him. His actions contributed significantly to a successful extraction of the wounded personnel. First Lieutenant Coombs' actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
See https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/54074

Dear Lt Dan Coombs,
Thank you for your service as a Helicopter Pilot. My mom passed on your anniversary, which was my husband's birthday. Say hi to them in heaven, they are Rose and Michael. 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.

On December 19, 1970, a U.S. Army helicopter OH-6A (tail number 69-15963) from Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, 11th Armored Cavalry was operating in the Binh Duong Province (III Corps) just northwest of Di An engaged in a reconnaissance mission when it was shot down by enemy forces. The aircraft crashed, causing fatal injuries to crew members pilot 1LT Dan F. L. Coombs III and observer/gunner SP5 Joseph W. Blickenstaff Jr. A post-crash fire destroyed the aircraft. [Taken from vhpa.org]