THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. Your Silver Star citation attests to your courage and devotion to your fellow marines. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever…..

Dear Cpl Barry Detremple,
Thank you for your service as an Assault Amphibious Vehicle Crewman. 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.

Dear CPL Barry Victor Detrempe, 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

Silver Star

Awarded posthumously for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Barry V. DeTrempe (MCSN: 2231831), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Headquarters and Service Company, First Amphibian Tractor Battalion, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 10 February 1969, Corporal DeTrempe was leading an ambush patrol near Dai Do in Quang Tri Province when he alertly observed a squad-size enemy unit approaching his position. As the hostile force came closer, he directed delivery of a heavy volume of accurate fire which took the enemy by surprise and inflicted heavy casualties. During the fierce fire fight which followed, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy small arms fire as he maneuvered throughout the hostile area, directing and encouraging his men. Seriously wounded while moving across the fire-swept terrain, Corporal DeTrempe directed his radio operator to relay a request for a reaction force and continued to speak words of encouragement and supervise his men until he succumbed to his wounds. His fortitude and bold fighting spirit inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission. By his courage, superb leadership and selfless devotion to duty, Corporal DeTrempe upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

Action Date: 10-Feb-69

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Corporal

Company: Headquarters and Service Company

Battalion: 1st Amphibian Tractor Battalion

Division: 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Barry is buried at Springdale Cemetery, Peoria,IL. PH