THE WALL OF FACES

Never forgot you missed all the things we planned on doing when we got out. You were my closest friend on A25 your friend Van

Dear PFC Bruce Dudley,
Thank you for your service as an Infantry Direct Fire Crewman with the 1st Cavalry. Independence Day is approaching, and we remember your sacrifice. 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.

PFC Bruce W. Dudley Jr. was an Infantry Direct Fire Crewman serving with A Troop, 1st Squadron 1st Cavalry, Americal Division. On October 3, 1967, the 1st Cavalry Division launched Operation Wallowa, a campaign to relieve pressure on the U.S. Marines who were fighting a series of heavy engagements along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in South Vietnam’s northernmost provinces. On the October 27th, while participating in the operation, PFC Dudley was critically injured after he was hit by mortar fragments. He was evacuated to Walter Reed General Hospital in Washington D.C. He died January 25, 1968, from a urinary tract infection caused by paraplegia of the lower extremities, complications secondary to his wounds. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

Dear PFC Bruce Wesley Dudley 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

Bruce is buried at St Peters Catholic Cemetery in Columbia, SC.