THE WALL OF FACES

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.

Dear SMSGT Rexford Wispelaere,
Thank you for your service as a Fixed Wing Crewman. It is Mother's Day weekend, and I wish you all were here with your moms. It has been too long, and it's about time 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.

I attended church with this fine young man when he went off to fight the War in Vietnam. It was a sad day for our church family when he was not to return to us. Continued prayers to his family.

In the 70's I wore an MIA bracelet engraved with your name. I was young, a teenager, full of life and hope not only for myself but for you. I felt your name, and the man who carried it, were entrusted to me. I prayed for you, your safe return, for your Family. God answered the prayers for a mighty warrior, calling you to be in his arms and not the arms of those on this side of heaven. One day I will be in heaven too. I will meet you there, the second hero in my heart only behind my Dad. Until we meet on that beautiful shore I will remember and honor you here.

I wore a POW MIA bracelet with Rexford's name on it for many years during the Vietnam war. I grew up in Virginia near Langley AFB, Norfolk Naval Base and Fort Monroe. The war was a constant presence in our lives as children--friends' dads stationed in Vietnam, camouflaged planes flying overhead, and a neighbor who was a prisoner of war. My bracelet was a small way to show support during this terrible time and I have saved it ever since. Several years ago I did a rubbing of Rexford's name from the Vietnam Memorial Wall in D.C. I took my bracelet out today to wear for Veteran's Day, which prompted me to look online for more information. I would be honored to send my bracelet to a member of Rexford's family.