THE WALL OF FACES

We only met once when Gale came down to the 16th PPIF (Tan Son Nhut AB) from the RITS where he worked. I had just arrived in Vietnam. My boss, Lt Jerry R., introduced me to Gale. It was just a couple days before he was hospitalized. He looked strong and healthy, so it was a shock when Jerry told me he had passed. I saw Gale's name on the Wall in DC when I visited. He left us too soon. Rest in peace, Lt. Croon.

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.

May those who served never be forgotten. Rest in peace 1LT. Croon, I salute your brave soul. My heart goes out to you and your family.

1LT Gale W. Croon served with the 12th Reconnaissance Intelligence Squadron,460th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing, 7th Air Force. While serving in Vietnam, 1LT Croon became ill and was hospitalized. On December 12, 1968, he died at the U.S. Air Force Hospital in Cam Ranh Bay from colon and liver cancer. Croon was 26 years-old. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

Dear Lt Gale Croon,
Thank you for your service. I do not know your Mos, but you served. 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.