THE WALL OF FACES

To many years have passed since we last communicated. Somewhere in my war chest I believe I have the last letter you sent. In fact I believe the last letter you sent my father is in there as well. He always told the story of how you left my little brother dangling from a telephone guide wire in the front yard the last time you came to visit, that was just days before you left for Viet Nam. I will never understand why some of us were allowed to live through it all and return home to live out our lives while others, like you my friend, we're not. Maybe God has clued you in and you can share that information at our heavenly reunion. RIP TURK.

Billy has a memorial marker at Happy Valley Memorial Park, Elizabethtown, Carter County, TN.

Dear SSGT Billy Joe Ellis, sir

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for your sacrifice made on behalf of our wonderful country. The youth of today could gain much by learning of heroes such as yourself, men and women whose courage and heart can never be questioned.

May God allow you to read this, and may He allow me to someday shake your hand when I get to Heaven to personally thank you. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love you.

With respect, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter

Billy Joe, aka Turk, graduated in 1966 from Happy Valley High School in Elizabethton, TN. He was a star basketball player. He was the Male Class Favorite for his Senior class. As a Junior class member, I had the honor of participating in his graduation exercise. I stood beside of Billy Joe's father. He said to me, "My son is graduating." I asked his name and he told me. He was so proud of Billy Joe that night. Billy Joe Ellis is still listed as MIA. I am putting a Face with the Name to honor his memory and ultimate sacrifice.

I hope that Billy Joe Ellis's family and friends find a measure of peace and pride in knowing that Billy Joe Ellis is forever remembered for his sacrifice in the service of our nation, especially when his fellow countrymen stand and sing the words to our national anthem "...the land of the free and the home of the brave".