THE WALL OF FACES

I've posted before but wanted to add this post-script. Several years ago the Vietnam Security Police Association of which I am a member, held its annual reunion in DC and we were fortunate enough to arrange for our vets to do a Wall Washing via the Park Service. I asked and was granted the privilege of washing the panel upon which my cousin's name sits atop. It was the first time I had actually seen his name since learning of his loss. It's ironic that it is in the top right corner where the God looks down on all our brothers and sisters we honor there.
I have also had a memorial brick with his name placed in the Murrieta Veterans Memorial Honor Garden sitting next to a brick honoring my wife's youngest brother lost in a USMC training accident, and one honoring 1Lt Charlotte Milcetich (Picallo), an Army nurse I met in Vietnam (Chu Chi and Chu Lai Evac Hospitals) 70-71, who remained my lifelong friend until her passing from MS two years ago. Slow Salute.

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

First Lieutenant Carmen De Cubellis Jr., Served with Company B, 3rd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrances from those who knew you are touching and reflect their admiration and respect for you. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever…..

1st Lt. DeCubellis, Jr. was killed in an ambush in the Chu Pa Mountains, in Vietnam.


1st Lt. Carmen DeCubellis, Jr was the only child of Carmen and Lena DeCubellis. His parents owned a bakery in Cranston.

He graduated from Cranston West High School and then from University of Rhode Island. His military training was conducted at Fort Benning, GA taking the Infantry Officers Basic Course.

At Fort Benning, while out with a few friends and after a few beers he confided to a barracks mate that he was concerned he wouldn't make it. Carmen was described by his fellow officers and subordinates as a kind, thoughtful officer. Asking advice of the experienced squad leaders and always wanting to do the right thing.

His tour of duty began on August 2, 1969. He was an Infantry Unit Commander with Company B, 12th Infantry, 3rd Battalion. Eighty-eight days later, 2 days before Halloween, he was killed by a grenade during an ambush in the Chu Pa Mountains, Pleiku Province.

PFC Jerome Hatter of Chicago, IL also died that day in the ambush. Two men who gave up their tomorrows so we can have our today.