THE WALL OF FACES

Bob (A/C) and I (GIB) trained as an aircrew at George AFB in '68. We were sent to Udorn RTAFB in Jan '69. We flew most of the missions together, but I wasn't available the night he and Bill Justice were shot down. I remember the mission which resulted in us being awarded the DFC. We were going after a gun placement in Laos. As we were using a radar bombing technique, I had my head in the radar scope as Bob was diving towards the AAA gun, which was shooting at us. Bob, in an excited voice, yelled to me that I should see the rounds coming up at us. Bob released the bombs, pulled off and jinked us out of the area. The FAC radioed that we destroyed the gun. The accompanying picture shows Bob while we were at Udorn. A quiet and confident man who is stilled missed.

Dear Captain Robert Dean Davenport, 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, Sir

Curt Carter

Bob was a classmate of mine at the Jefferson City High School, in Jefferson City, MO. Class of 1960 He is remembered each time we have a class reunion.

If I should die, and leave you here awhile, be not like others, sore undone, who keep long vigils by the silent dust, and weep...for MY sake, turn again to life, and smile...Nerving thy heart, and trembling hand to do something to comfort other hearts than thine...Complete these dear, unfinished tasks of mine...and I, perchance, may therein comfort you.

Robert is buried at United States Air Force Academy Cemetery, Colorado Springs, El Paso County, CO.