THE WALL OF FACES

Dear PFC Edmund Victor Cudnik, 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

Silver Star
Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Edmund V. Cudnik (MCSN: 2421050), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Radio Operator with Company M, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 26 December 1968, the second platoon had established a night ambush southwest of DaNang when a platoon size North Vietnamese Army force was detected near the Marines' position. Disregarding his own safety, Private First Class Cudnik unhesitatingly joined a three-man patrol which pursued the hostile soldiers, and while skillfully maneuvering with his companions to force the enemy platoon toward the Marine ambush, he capably monitored his radio and kept his platoon commander advised at all times regarding the progress of the patrol as it drove the numerically superior North Vietnamese unit closer to the concealed Marine position. During the ensuing battle, Private First Class Cudnik was mortally wounded while engaging a group of enemy soldiers in a hand grenade duel. His heroic actions and calm presence of mind enabled his platoon to capture numerous documents containing valuable intelligence information. By his courage, bold initiative and unfaltering devotion to duty, Private First Class Cudnik inspired all who served with him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Action Date: 26-Dec-68

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Private First Class

Company: Company M

Battalion: 3d Battalion

Regiment: 7th Marines

Division: 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Edmund is buried at St Hedwick's Cemetery, Dearborn,MI. SS PH

Although we never met personally, I want to thank you Edmund Victor Cudnik, for your courageous and valiant service, faithful contribution, and your most holy sacrifice given to this great country of ours!

Your Spirit is alive--and strong, therefore Marine, you shall never be forgotten, nor has your death been in vain!

Again, thank you PFC Edmund Victor Cudnik, for a job exceptionally well done!

REST IN ETERNAL PEACE MY MARINE FRIEND

PRIVATE FIRST CLASS

EDMUND VICTOR CUDNIK


Service No. 2421050


was a posthumous recipient of the




~~~~~ SILVER STAR ~~~~~




~~~~~ SEMPER FIDELIS ~~~~~




YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN
NOR SHALL YOU EVER BE