THE WALL OF FACES

It is said a man hasn't died as long as he is remembered. This prayer is a way for families, friends and fellow veterans to remember our fallen brothers and sisters. 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 hush, I am the swift, uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight, I am the stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there, I did not die

We served at the Naval Hospital in Guam together, then off we went to Pendleton, and before you knew it we were in Nam. You made the ultimate sacrifice my friend, like too many other shipmates of ours. It will always be hard to accept losing so many friends like you. I remember you well, a friend and a dedicated corpsman. I see your smile and hear your voice. You will be in my thoughts always. Thank you for your bravery, your service to our country, and for sacrificing your life so others may enjoy freedom and a better life.

Although we never met personally, I want to thank you Donald Ray Ellis, for your courageous and valiant service, faithful contribution, and most holy sacrifice, given to this great country of ours!

Your Spirit is alive--and strong, therefore, you shall never be forgotten, nor has your death been in vain!

Again, thank you Doc Ellis, for a job well done!

FAIR WINDS, AND ETERNAL PEACE MY FRIEND

Doc Ellis had been with us for many months in the boonies and had saved many Marines' lives. Doc was still with us the day we lost half the platoon in the DMZ, May 20, 1967. The ambush was huge and wounded men everywhere were calling for help. Doc went from man to man doing what he could. Doc Ellis gave his life that day protecting and administering to our wounds. God Bless you…

Rest in Peace "Doc"

John Bruneel, HMCM USN (Ret)



"I'm the One Called "Doc…"


I shall not walk in your footsteps,
but I will walk by your side.
I shall not walk in your image,
I've earned my own title of pride.
We've answered the call together,
on sea and foreign land.
When the cry for help was given,
I've been there right at hand.
Whether I am on the ocean
or in the jungle wearing greens,
Giving aid to my fellow man,
be it Sailors or Marines.
So the next time you see a corpsman
and you thing of calling him "squid",
Think of the job he's doing
as those before him did.
And if you ever have to go out there
and you life is on the block,
Look at the one right next to you…
I'm the one called "Doc".


Harry D. Penny, Jr. HMC(AC)USN
Copyright 1975

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