THE WALL OF FACES

After my own father was shot down in Vietnam and missing for a few days, they recovered his body. I suppose we were one of the more fortunate families, as we knew what happened to our dad. When I got my POW bracelet with Rexford's name on it, I could only imagine any details about him, which I did constantly. When the POWs came home, I looked -- searched really -- for any sign of both him AND my father, just in case, but of course neither of them came home. Now I'm 62 and realized I could google his name and here he is. Thank you to those good folks who provided a photo of this handsome young man. To his family, please know he is not and never will be forgotten. Many blessings and hugs from Atlanta, Georgia.

I am the Curator of the POW/MIA Bracelet Display in the Vietnam Hangar of the Palm Springs Air Museum in Palm Springs, California where we now have over two thousand bracelets and would be honored to include your bracelet in our Display.
Dr. Dave Thompson
Palm Springs Air Museum
POW/MIA Bracelet Display Curator
Lt. Commander U.S. Navy 1964-1970
10-103 Lakeview Dr. Rancho Mirage, Ca 92270
760-328-0859 [email protected]

Senior Master Sergeant Rexford John De Wispelaere, Served with the 41st Tactical Airlift Squadron, 374th Tactical Airlift Wing, 7th Air Force.

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.

In the 1970’s I wore your bracelet. I figured they sent me your name because I too lived in Penfield. I never knew your family but one day I was in a grocery store in Panorama Plaza and a lady in the checkout line saw your name and told me she was your relative. I was only in Elementary School at the time so I don’t remember who she said she was exactly. I was saddened when your remains were found/identified as I had always prayed you’d make it back. I think of you often and you are listed on the stone at Veterans Memorial Park here in Penfield. If any of your family reads this please know that he is not forgotten.