THE WALL OF FACES

I went to high school with Ralph. In class, his answers were often didactic and oblique. He earned the nickname The Professor. He seemed destined for some highly specialized field, like nuclear physics. We regularly ate lunch at the same table, along with several other guys who also would never fit in with the popular kids or the jocks. I've posted his high school yearbook (1965) photo to this site. I saw him once after high school. I had flunked out of college and joined the Navy. Coming home for Christmas leave in 1967, I caught a glimpse of him across the baggage claim area. In his turtleneck and tweed jacket, he seemed very collegiate. I was in uniform and didn't want to have to explain, so I turned away. I was shocked to see his name in the paper in 1972. He was the last person I would have expected to be in uniform.

A dear friend remembered with fondness.

Ralph was buried at sea.

If I should die, and leave you here awhile, be not like others, sore undone, who keep long vigils by the silent dust, and weep...for MY sake, turn again to life, and smile...Nerving thy heart, and trembling hand to do something to comfort other hearts than thine...Complete these dear, unfinished tasks of mine...and I, perchance, may therein comfort you.

Dear LT Ralph Peter Dupont Jr, 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.

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. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love

you.

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

Curt Carter