THE WALL OF FACES

Corporal Jerry Glenn Ervin, Served with Battery B, 4th Battalion, 42nd Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.

Kontum Viet Nam is a long way from rural Tennessee,and hard for me to fathom my big brother Jerry Glenn Ervin losing his life there.I think of him often but especially on Memorial Day,Veterans Day,Christmas,his birthday and always on March 8th,the day he gave his life fighting to defend his fellow soldiers,the oppressed Vietnamese and to keep freedom alive for all.He was a true hero to me even before he enlisted for duty, always standing up for his little sisters,Joyce and me.He was so loved by our Momma.He was brave and strong but yet possessed a very tender and caring heart.So many precious memories of a life well lived.I often think what he would be like today.When I meet Viet Nam Veterans I always try to thank them for their service.Sometimes I even ask if I can give them a hug, because in some way I feel as if I am holding my brother and an era of history that only the ones who were there in battle will truly ever know the sacrificices they made and those who returned are still making.Thank You My Big Brother and to all who served and serve our country.Jerry I have faith that we will be reunited again in Heaven.

Dear Cpl Jerry Ervin,
Thank you for your service as a Field Artillery Basic. 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.

This anniversary always brings sadness as I recall the very minute I got the news of your death and how devastating it was to learn that you, my big brother, would not be coming home again. It also reminds me of the sacrifice you made and the courage it took for you to defend our country during that terrible war. You joined at the height of the conflict with no thought as to your own safety. You will be in my heart forever!