THE WALL OF FACES

SP5 Gareth J. Deal was an Operating Room Specialist assigned to the 93rd Evacuation Hospital at Long Binh in Bien Hoa Province, RVN, run by the 68th Medical Group, 44th Medical Brigade, U.S. Army Republic of Vietnam. Deal had been in Vietnam approximately ten months when he suffered a heart attack. He returned to the United States on leave on September 17, 1966, to Fort Riley, KS. A week later, Deal suffered a second heart attack. He passed away several weeks later on October 17, 1966, at Wagner Community Hospital in his hometown of Wagner, SD. In a telegram to his wife, his Commanding Officer reported that Deal died “as a result of a massive coronary occlusion.” He was 29 years. Deal was buried with military honors at Wagner Community Cemetery. A brother, A3C Keith A. Deal, who died in an explosion and fire at Nellis Air Force Base in 1952, is buried nearby. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and sdvietnamwarmemorial.com]

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever…..

Gareth....Honoring you on your birthday...You are not forgotten.....
God Bless

Dear Sp5 Gareth Deal,
Thank you for your service as an Operating Room Specialist. Thank you for the lives you saved. It is so important 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.

Dear SP5 Gareth John Deal, 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