THE WALL OF FACES

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.

I served with Capt Corcoran 1stBn4thMar. He never sent his men anywhere he himself would not go. I owe my life to him LCPL Michael w. Hess. Vietnam 4Jul66/4Aug67.

Without people like you our great nation would not exist. Rest in peace CAPT. Corcoran, I salute your brave soul. Semper Fidelis!

Dear Cap Richard Corcoran,
Thank you for your service as an Infantry Officer. 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 June 7, 1968, a U.S. Marine Corps helicopter UH-1E (tail number 151294) from Marine Observation Squadron 6 (VMO-6) was conducting an air reconnaissance mission 2 miles south of Khe Sahn Combat Base for the 3d Marine Division when it was hit by enemy fire and crashed. Three Marine personnel were killed in the incident and two others were rescued, including Battalion Commander LTC M. J. Gravel. The helicopter apparently struck the top of a ridgeline after being hit, sheering off one landing strut, then skidded or rolled down the slope for approximately 300 meters. The wreckage was completely consumed by fire. Three bodies were found in the charred aircraft, burned beyond recognition. Two bodies still had dog tags around their necks. An extensive search of area failed to reveal the location of the aircraft’s guns or radios, and it was assumed they had been destroyed in the crash and fire. A confidential radio frequency chart was discovered and delivered to the S-2 security officer. The remains were returned to Khe Sanh Combat Base. The lost personnel included pilot 1LT Ralph E. Hunt Jr., aerial observer CPT Richard F. Corcoran, and passenger MAJ Robert V. Kurilich. [Taken from popasmoke.com]