THE WALL OF FACES

Staff Sergeant Thomas Dean, Served with the Reconnaissance Platoon, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

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.

On the 93 year anniversary of your birth, I thank you for your service. Besides this being my birthday as well, I noticed something very unique about this day, November 20th. Senator Robert F Kennedy was also born on this day, only 1 year before yourself.
You had already laid down your life serving our country in Vietnam. I remember when Senator Kennedy later met an assassins bullet.
So many more Americans would continue to die in the coming years ahead.
It is because of those turbulent years in my memory that I will do my part to never, ever, forget what soldiers like yourself personally sacrificed. You will not be forgotten, so help me Sergeant Dean
Respectfully and gratefully yours,
Rich Sakharoff

Staff Sergeant Thomas Dean was awarded the Silver Star Medal for his exemplary courage under fire while serving as an Infantryman with Recon Platoon, Hq & Hq Co, 2nd Bn, 35th Inf, 25th Inf Div.
See www.virtualwall.org/dd/DeanTx01a.htm

Dear Ssgt Thomas Dean,
Thank you for service as an Infantryman. 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.