THE WALL OF FACES

A butterfly lights beside us like a sunbeam
And for a brief moment its glory
and beauty belong to our world
But then it flies again
And though we wish it could have stayed...
We feel lucky to have seen it.

Lt. Joseph William Devlin was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, with Combat Distinguishing Device (V), for his sustained heroism in action.
He served as a Helicopter Pilot and was assigned to HMM-364, MAG-16, 1ST MAW, III MAF.
See https://marines.togetherweserved.com/

Dear Lt Joseph Devlin,
Thank you for your service HMH/M/LA (I) Pilot. 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.

1LT Joseph W. Devlin was a U.S. Marine Corps helicopter pilot assigned to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364 (HMM 364). On March 8, 1970, 1LT Devlin was the aircraft commander of a CH-46D helicopter (#154815) from HMM 364 which was conducting a logistics support mission for resupply. The aircraft was enroute to an area known as "The Coal Mines." Southwest of Da Nang, where Route 4 crosses the Ai Nghia River, the aircraft was passing the village of Dai Loc when a single round of enemy AK-47 fire entered the cockpit area, striking Devlin in the throat. He was killed instantly. The bullet ricocheted through the cockpit and also struck the co-pilot, MAJ Fred Locke, in the right wrist. The helicopter was able to continue flight and did not crash. [Taken from popasmoke.com and vhpa.org]

Dear 1LT Joseph William Devlin, 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.

With respect, Sir

Curt Carter