THE WALL OF FACES

Never forgotten.

GARRYOWEN

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.

I would like to say that I miss you everyday that you have been gone. Mom was so proud of you. She would not celebrate Thanksgiving, for the reason you know. Thank you for everything that you did for us to make our life easier. Just want to say that I love you and hope you would be happy with the way I have lived my life. Love Brenda

SP4 Donald Duncan was killed on Thanksgiving Day, 1966. Six others died in the battle. My father, Wilbur Bowe, served in the same company but in the mortar platoon. He remembers Thanksgiving Day 1966 as his worst day in Vietnam. In particular, he remembered this fellow, Duncan, who actually "volunteered" to come out to the field with them shortly before he was killed. Apparently, SP4 Duncan was working in the supply shop for the company at An Khe, but had a disagreement with his boss, and decided he would rather fight in the field. It was a fatal decision. I wrote a book in 2018 about their company during its first year in Vietnam. In the future, I hope to publish an edition that has more information included about Don. Please contact me if you knew Donald Duncan or served with him in Alpha Company, 5/7th Cav. [email protected] or 612-443-1979. Thank you.

Dear Sp4 Donald Duncan,
Thank you for your service as an Infantryman with the 1st Cavalry. Your 73rd birthday was in the beginning of the month, happy birthday. 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.