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 sun 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

Many years ago I met and fell in love with you! We had some wonderful times and I became your wife shortly before you were sent off to the army. I lived with your family when you went to Vietnam and one day after having dinner with a friend came home to see a policeman and a soldier standing in the family living room.. I was informed that you have been killed and my life shattered into a million pieces. We lost one of the nicest and most genuine people that day..I remember you often and place the flag I was given that dreadful day each memorial day. I recently lost the man I was eventually to marry and he honored you each year also. I will never forget you or any of the men who fought and continue to fight for this country.. Till we meet again.. My heart cries.

Steven was killed on February 2,1968.. I was his wife,Carol. It devastated his whole family and the community of Levittown,NY.

Steven Richard Anderson
Date of birth: August 28, 1944
Date of death: February 19, 1968
Home of record: Levittown New York
Status: KIA

AWARDS AND CITATIONS

Silver Star

Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Specialist Fourth Class Steven Richard Anderson (ASN: US-67073673), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class Anderson distinguished himself while serving as a Squad Leader with Company D, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. On 19 February 1968, Company D was conducting a search and destroy operation west of DaNang in Quang Nam Province. Specialist Anderson's element was moving along a hedgerow into a village when a noise was heard in the underbrush. Before evasive action could be taken, an enemy force opened fire, immobilizing the element. Realizing the need for immediate retaliation, Specialist Anderson left his position and engaged the hostile force by moving into the hedgerow on the flank of the enemy. His unexpected and daring act confused and distracted the enemy soldiers, causing them to shift their fire to him. As he neared the enemy position he was mortally wounded by the hostile fire. Through Specialist Anderson's valorous actions and initiative, the remainder of his unit was able to maneuver into effective positions safely. Inspired by Specialist Fourth Class Anderson's courageous efforts, the unit successfully routed the enemy from their positions. Specialist Fourth Class Anderson's outstanding courage and unswerving devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

General Orders: Headquarters, 4th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 1165 (March 25, 1968)

Action Date: February 19, 1968

Service: Army

Rank: Specialist Fourth Class

Company: Company D

Battalion: 1st Battalion

Regiment: 14th Infantry Regiment

Division: 4th Infantry Division

DEAR SPECIALIST 4TH CLASS ANDERSON,
THANKS FOR BEING AN ARMY GRUNT. AS A NEW YORKER FROM QUEENS, I KNOW LEVITTOWN. IT IS THE ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11. WE ARE REMEMBERING MORE HEROES. WE MUST ALSO HONOR AND REMEMBER YOU. REST IN PEACE.