THE WALL OF FACES

It took me 53 years to get here, Duane, but here I am, hoping for “mission accomplished” with this remembrance. Not that you were out of mind, but some service-related things jelled for me in recent days and led me to you. To reacquaint, we met briefly the day before your first mission in Vietnam. You were my replacement on the two-man combat advisor team I was on for seven months. My team leader and I were both being reassigned, as was customary at the time; you and your partner were the new team. We talked for a while in the little bunkhouse that had been mine and now was yours, introductions, getting-to-know-yous, what it was like on patrol, back in camp, and such. You asked questions, wanted details, tips on a host of things, listened carefully. I felt good about the hand-over, felt good about you, your maturity (we were the same age), focus, the fit you’d be in your role and with your South Vietnamese counterparts. You left on a mission the next day, and a day or so later your stunned team leader returned to base with word of the attack that took your life. The entire camp was shocked, and I was knocked permanently into a place that vividly reminds me how fragile every breath of life is. I’m in your debt for that, and will always be. Thank you, Sir, for carrying me through to this point and for however many days I have ahead. I welcome contact from your family, if members choose to do that. My thanks to The Wall of Faces, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, and all of those who’ve left remembrances on the Wall, particularly for Duane Gordon Cordiner, whose example and sacrifice I admire and respect greatly.

Duane was the best. Met in the 7th grade, roommate two years in college and Army Buddy. Love you Buddy. RIP my friend.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from Molly McNamara is moving. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us…..

Lt. Duane Gordon Cordiner was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, with Combat Distinguishing Device (V), for his exemplary gallantry in action. He served as an Infantry Unit Commander and was assigned to ADV TEAM 96, HQ, MACV ADVISORS.
See http://www.virtualwall.org/dc/CordinerDG01a.htm

Duane was a senior my freshman year of high school. He was an unbelievable basketball player and had an engaging personality. He was a role model and an inspiration to me at that stage of my life. RIP Duane!