THE WALL OF FACES

I did not get to know you very well, as you were certainly the quiet one. I remember how you loved drag racing and will always remember how handsome and gentle you were.

I remember the day your dad was taking you to the airport to leave for Nam. You looked so handsome in your dress uniform. You stood outside by the car, but I could not go to you and say goodbye. Somehow I knew I would never see you again, and thought if I didn't say goodbye, then maybe you would come back. You never did. And for over twenty some years, I never forgave myself for not telling you goodbye. Only until my husband finally convinced me to go to The Wall, and I put my hand on your name, did I know you forgave me.

You had a step brother in the Navy, and Bobby was in the Air Force. But it was you I prayed for at night. I wanted so much for you to come back, and to get to know you better.

Your brother Bobby died at a young age also. I got to know him pretty well. He was also handsome, and was a great singer. He was so proud when he became a father of a little boy. If his son should ever read this, I would love to get in touch with him. My name is Nancy Hopper Moyer, and I live in Huntingdon, PA. He also has a step aunt, April Dyke Milsap, who lives in Tennessee. She was just a little girl when the two of you left us. My phone number is 814-641-0204.

Please forgive me Charlie, for not going out to the car and telling you goodbye. I just could not do it. I know you are in a greater place, and someday I will get to know you better.

Your father died not very long after you did. Your death tore him to pieces. He died of a heart attack, but I think he really died with you.

God bless you Charlie, and I'm so very proud of you!

I never knew you but you are a part of my life. Your brother, my father, Died in February 1972. They said he was not the same after you died. I hardly knew him, I was only two months old at the time. Your Mom took it hard and I don't think she has gotten over it yet. It is now January 2001 and she still talks about you with a sparkle in her eye. Aunt Marion had a deep affection for you and Uncle Bud passed away in late 2000. Although I never knew you we are connected by blood and family. I look forward to seeing you again and when we all can be together as one big happy family.

You nephew,

Robert Charles Glenn Dyke Ward

It is Veteran's Day 1999, 32 years later. I was 16 when Charlie died. He was the quieter one of the brothers, is what I remember the most. Not a real big guy. He went to Hazleton High. I will never forget his viewing, in his uniform, very handsome and dignified. I remember thinking this was too close to home, this was Charlie lying there. He was the first from Drums to die. Today I write this in remembrance of you. You are not forgotten, nor is the sacrifice you made. Charlie, I have an 18 year old son now, and I pray that, perhaps because of your sacrifice, he will never have to see the horrors of war. Rest in peace, in God's presence forever. Irene