THE WALL OF FACES

As a tradition my parents took us every year to your grave site and my Dad would talk to you smiling. These are the memories I will have forever that Daddy Tui instilled in me and I will always be forever grateful. Thank you Uncle for the ultimate sacrifice. We love you forever and always.

Sergeant Eddie Achica, Served with the 2nd Platoon, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

Never forgotten.

HOOAH

CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Eddie Achica, United States Army, for gallantry in action. On 10 August 1966, Sergeant Achica distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a squad leader in the 2d Platoon, Company A, 2d Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in the Ia Drang River Valley, Republic of Vietnam. When his platoon was pinned down by intense enemy fire, Sergeant Achica realized the importance of locating the enemy emplacements that were firing on his squad. He exposed himself to hostile fire on numerous occasions in order to locate the enemy positions. After locating the positions, he supervised his men in delivering effective fire upon the enemy. It was during the intense fire fight with the enemy positions that Sergeant Achica was mortally wounded. His inspiration motivated the men to free themselves from the well-aimed fire and rejoin the platoon. Sergeant Achica's courageous action and supreme sacrifice are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
See https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/141852

"The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again, who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; who at best, knows the triumph of high achievement; and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat."
-Theodore Roosevelt, "Citizen in a Republic", April 23, 1910