THE WALL OF FACES

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.

Dear Sp4 Robert Doughty,
Thank you for your service with the 1st Cavalry. I had trouble finding your MOS, and I think you were a dog handler. We remember all you who gave their all. 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.

This fall my daughter, grandson and I visited the site of my brother Roberts grave for the first time since his burial. The cemetery is massive and so many have died serving our country. Thank you to those who served.

Robert was my cousin. I was nine when he died in 1966 and it was a tragic experience. We lived in New Jersey and drove to the veteran's cemetery on Long Island on a very cold day for his funeral; he was twenty years old and from a military family. My husband and I are watching the PBS series on Vietnam this week, all these years later. What a terrible, terrible ordeal for this country and for Vietnam. Lord, have mercy on us and forgive us and bless the young men who served and bless all the people who died.

Thank you Spec 4 Doughty for your leadership and courage.