THE WALL OF FACES

On the remembrance of your 72nd birthday, your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Forever 18.

Semper Fi, Marine...you did good

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. As long s you are remembered you never truly die....

On the remembrance of your birthday, your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Forever 18.

Semper Fi, Marine.

As Memorial Day approaches this year, I just wanted to say thank you for your sacrifice. My mom, you sister, Joan, rarely speaks of you, partly because the memories are so distance and partly because when they do surface she misses you. As I eclipsed 20 years of Service in the Navy as a Senior Chief Petty Officer, I want to say thank you for your quiet example. The uniformed pictures of you and your father that hung on the wall of my childhood home along with your silver star, and his bronze star were quiet but influential indications of what was sacrificed and that the tradition should carry on. I know Uncle Andy said you were a bad ass in high school and volunteered to be a Marine the first chance you got, maybe to follow in your Uncle Rolland's large footsteps. I know the Western Union telegram said you were taken down by sniper fire trying to advance your squad's position. I know your sister wouldn't let anyone in the family name their child James in your honor as you were named for your uncle that died in world war 2. I know you are missed dearly by your family, both those who loved with you and those like me and all your nieces and nephews who would have enjoyed sharing a beer with you. Thank you for your sacrifice.

Lance Corporal James Patrick Achterhoff, Served with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.