THE WALL OF FACES

I do not know where to begin other than to say I wish I had written something here many, many years ago. I kept making promises I would, but I just didn't know what to say. Even after my one and only visit to the Vietnam Wall, where I found Dick's name and told her about our friendship, I visited this site...but still had no words.

Dick and I served together on ward 3 South at Great Lakes Naval Hospital and he became my best friend. He was one of the nicest guys I had ever met and, even though only a year older than me, kind of took me under his wing. I remember all the things we did together and how special his family was. Because I had received my drop card for Vietnam, I was not allowed to return to my home in California for the holidays so Dick invited me to his home in Shakopee. I was treated so nice by everyone. We had a lot of fun and I remember him, "showing me the ropes," of how to be an, “outdoors man”, by taking us down a river on a boat and target practicing on some tin cans. In fact, he took me to a gun store where I bought a 22 Cal western-style pistol and rig that I still have to this day.

I was very excited for Dick after I met Reggie, I knew they were going to be a fine couple and we promised to always keep in touch. I can only believe that had Dick lived we would still be close friends today. But it was not to be.

When I learned of Dick's being killed I was devastated and, I'm not ashamed to admit, I cried like a baby. In one of Mrs. Cox letters she sent me the newspaper obituary and a, "Sanctus Joseph," prayer card from K. K. Hamsher funeral home. I still have that letter and the newspaper clipping. The prayer card, now frayed, but laminated, still remains in my wallet.

I have never forgotten my memories of Vietnam, nor do I think I should. It is important we remember fallen friends, no matter how painful.
With that I close and wish to simply say:

"I know you are resting peacefully, Dick, and I know you are in a good place. I am honored to have called you, friend.”

I served with Richard at Great Lakes Naval Hospital. I worked 3 South and drove to attend his funeral. I lived in Minnesota and knew of his "Quick Draw" club at the Old West Town in Shakopee. I'm in my sixties now, retired, I have never forgot his duty as a Hospital Corpsman and recently visited his grave to say a prayer and say "Richard I'll never Forget!"

Photo was provided by Herb Reckinger Jr. with the St. Paul Park, Minnesota Historical Society with help from Richard’s sister Barb Stark of Shakopee, Minnesota. Thank you Herb and Barb!

You were one of the brave that answered the call. You honored us by your service and sacrifice. We now honor you each time we stand and sing the words “THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE”. Rest in Peace and Honor Richard.

Dear HM3 Richard Leigh Cox, 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, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter

Richard is buried at St Mark's Cemetery in Shakopee,MN. PH