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 David in the Infantry in Vietnam, and I was just a few yards away on that terrible day when David and another young American soldier from Yonkers, New York were taken from us. I will never understand why they died that day and I didn't.

Dear PFC David Crabtree,
Thank you for your service as an Infantryman. Happy Valentine's Day. 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.

To my Uncle Dave, I wish I could have known you better, you were killed when I was only 4, and I know my mom and here siblings miss you terribly, although the years have eased their pain, they would trade it in a minute to have you back with them. I just want to say thank you for your service and your sacrifice and can't wait to see you in heaven, so that we can sit down and talk about things.

Dear PFC David Allen Crabtree, 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