THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. I am 73 and have lived a long and fulfilling life. It is tragic you never had that same opportunity. May you rest in eternal peace.

John was a friend of my older brother, Jack Ballard, both of whom were forced to be "drafted". Both 18 ... still kids, right? They did what they were told. After maybe a year in Nam, he was able to come back to Eureka on leave. He joined my family for a Church service (dad was minister at Nazarene Church in Manila). I was maybe 12 years old, brother Jack sitting next to John on one side, and me on the other. Later in the service, John is clearly emotional (He's 19 - I would be, too). Then it's Altar Call, which churches do, where you walk up front and ask for help. He does that. He is asking God and everyone for protection. He and all of us in the church are emotional ... wanting God to protect him.
Back in our seats now, John said "If I am sent back to VietNam, I do not think I will return".
At that point, if not before, John taught me to never give up your life for someone else's bullshit.
Let's all learn from John and all the other sacrificial lambs that are forced to give up their lives for "Evil Overlords".

Private First Class John Richard Earley, Served with Company H, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

As your 70th birthday approaches, your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Forever 18.

Semper Fi, Marine.

Dear PFC John Earley,
Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. 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.