THE WALL OF FACES

The Dickey family is remembered for being as patriotic as any family through the ages from the households of historic Concord, Mass. Thomas was KIA (Silver Star) on terrain so far away from the Old North Bridge. His death rocked our high school hallways and our days of innocence were over.

Life is not fair. Forty-seven years later the impact and memory of Thomas “Tommy” Dickey lives on. Thanks for the photos.

Tom was a friend of my brother Mark.. They joined the USMC together. Mark was still in Nam when his good friend lost his life. His family was strong during their loss. I was in awe. I don't think I could have had such courage.
I was at the wall today as my brother was honored in the in memory ceremony. I found Tommys name on the wall. It brought back many memories. I want to let his family that Tommy is still fondly remembered.

I recieved a letter from Tom"s mother when I was stationed in Germany saying he was killed in Viet Nam. I was in Viet Nam from Feb. 1967-Feb.1968. I still have that letter after all these years. Tom was a good person and a good Marine. Still thinking of you and the others from Concord who were killed so early in life.

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 Private First Class Thomas R. Dickey (MCSN: 2465956), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 10 February 1969, Private First Class Dickey was Point Man for his platoon during a combat operation in the Ashau Valley when he alertly detected a North Vietnamese Army unit preparing an ambush. Reacting instantly, he alerted his companions, and simultaneously commenced firing upon the hostile force. Concerned only for the welfare of his comrades, he steadfastly remained in his exposed position and fired upon the enemy emplacement until he was mortally wounded. His heroic actions and aggressive spirit inspired all who served with him and were instrumental in the subsequent defeat of the hostile unit. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Dickey saved the lives of several Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.

Action Date: February 10, 1969

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Private First Class

Company: Company L

Battalion: 3d Battalion

Regiment: 9th Marines

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

Dear PFC Thomas Robert Dickey, sir,

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for the ultimate sacrifice that you 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. And please know that men and women like you have stepped forward to defend our country yet again, showing the same love for country and their fellow Americans that you did- you would be proud.

With respect, and the best salute that a civilian can muster for you.

Curt Carter