THE WALL OF FACES

Dear Lt Duane Cordiner,
Thank you for your service as an Infantry Unit Commander. 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.

Most likely you wouldn’t remember me, but I’ll never forget you. You were the first boy I ever danced with, 7th grade, Jefferson Junior High. You chose me right after the “snowball” began. I was terrified that I would step all over you, and you’d never recover. But instead, you were the smoothest, easiest-to-follow dancer imaginable!
I was living on the East Coast when I heard of your tragic death in Vietnam and longed to know more about what happened. Today I found out. I was talking to a woman I thought I didn’t know, but she turned out to be an old Sunday School friend of mine, Anelle Jennings. We talked for at least an hour about you, and her words gave me peace.
The American Legion Band in which I play performs for ceremonies at the Rotunda of the State Capitol. Afterwards I usually go to the Vietnam War Memorial and find your name. If you happen to be looking down then, you might see a flower in the tiny hole beside your name. Know that your decades-ago dance partner put it there.

As a THS student many years ago I noticed the trophy case display honoring Duane Cordiner. A gifted athlete and student, I was(am) saddened by his promising life cut tragically short. Duane Cordiner...you have had a positive impact on my and other lives...thank you!

To Duane,
Just learned of this website from VVMF and would have commented earlier, if known of its existence. What a wonderful vehicle to convey some thoughts to you. I never got the chance to thank you for being my best man in June 1970. We were so young and fearless! What followed in December was devastating, heartbreaking news; I wished I could have helped Annelle and Andy, but Teri and I had to get back to Camp Pendleton to finish my active duty obligations in the Navy. Well, here it is 43 years later and I'm beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The wonderful but short time we had together played an important part in my life; the high energy and motivation you displayed was truly inspirational. I'd always ask "what would Duane do?" When making major decisions or pursuing initiatives. I named one of my sons after you and completed 33 years in the Navy due largely to your influence and commitment.

With fond memories, Jim

To Duane,
Just learned of this website from VVMF and would have commented earlier, if known of its existence. What a wonderful vehicle to convey some thoughts to you. I never got the chance to thank you for being my best man in June 1970. We were so young and fearless! What followed in December was devastating, heartbreaking news; I wished I could have helped Annelle and Andy, but Teri and I had to get back to Camp Pendleton to finish my active duty obligations in the Navy. Well, here it is 43 years later and I'm beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The wonderful but short time we had together played an important part in my life; the high energy and motivation you displayed was truly inspirational. I'd always ask "what would Duane do?" When making major decisions or pursuing initiatives. I named one of my sons after you and completed 33 years in the Navy due largely to your influence and commitment.

With fond memories, Jim