THE WALL OF FACES

Sergeant Francis Ignatius Arnett, Served with C Troop, 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

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 sun 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.

Although I did not know you, I honor your name. Although I did not know you, I honor your history. Although I did not know you, I honor your service, because without you, I would not be free. I was 7 years old when you honored your country with your life. I am now 58 years old, because you were a citizen of the Home of the Brave.

Family photo ...five children left without a father ...Oldest 9 when he died ....he left Christmas Eve December 1967 was buried 2 months later February 1968. ..

DEAR SERGEANT ARNETT,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AS AN ARMY GRUNT. I AM A NEW YORKER TOO FROM QUEENS. REST IN PEACE.