THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from your Mother is especially touching and reflects her enduring love for you. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever…..

The following is from the 1996 book THE FACES BEHIND THE NAMES The Vietnam War. The book was written and compiled by Don Ward. Hundreds of Minnesota soldiers killed in action in Vietnam were profiled and pictured in the book. The stories were told by family members. In the words of Charles Dumdei's Mother:
Charles Marion Dumdei- Army Private First Class
Born: November 2, 1948
Died: December 18, 1968
Charles Marion Dumdei was a very good and ambitious young man. His father died in 1953 when Charles was five years old and his brother Larry was seven years old. I remarried and his stepfather was very good to the two boys. We then adopted two boys, Bruce and Todd. Before we adopted them we asked Charles what he thought and he told us that we did a good job bringing up him and Larry and that we would do the same for Bruce and Todd.
Charles went to work as a mechanic at Allevan Motors in Mapleton, Minnesota, right after he graduated from high school in 1966. He worked there until he was drafted in 1968.
He came home on leave in 1968 to be the best man for his brother Larry's wedding on September 28th- that was the last time we saw him. We received the sad news that he had been killed in action on December 18, 1968. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of him.
In his death he left behind his mother and stepfather; Lucille and Walter; and brothers, Larry, Bruce, and Todd. In 1984, his stepfather and his brother Bruce died. The VFW in Mankato gave the city of Pemberton $500 for a park in Pemberton that was dedicated in 1989, in Charles' honor.
Lucille Morton, mother of Charles Dumdei

Private First Class Charles Marion Dumdei, Served with the Howitzer Battery, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, United States Army Vietnam.

Dear PFC Charles Dumdei,
Thank you for your service as a Field Artillery Basic. 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.

You were one of the brave that answered the call. You honored us by your service and sacrifice. We now honor you each time we stand and sing the words “THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE”. Rest in Peace and Honor Charles.