THE WALL OF FACES

I remember the fun times in college with you and Ernie Perez and the others. Sometimes you seemed shy, especially when you gave me a cupcake on my birthday. I loved the sweet gesture and you. We were both born in 1948 just four months apart. We briefly lost touch after college until Ernie told me you were in Vietnam and gave me your address. I cherish the few letters we exchanged before God called you from this earth into His Kingdom. Your last letter expressed your unwavering faith when you wrote about attending midnight Christmas mass and how joyful it was. Later I received the news from the Army that broke my heart. My last letter I sent you fell out of the large envelope. It was unopened. Then I read the fateful letter from the Army that began with “we regret to inform you”. My heart sank, and I cried for days. I will always miss you Richard. Yours is a pure soul, and I know you are with Our Lord Jesus Christ , Holy Mary Mother of God, and all the angels and saints in Heaven. Pray for me Richard. Occasionally, I visit your gravesite and leave a flower. My parents are also buried at Resurrection Cemetery.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from your friend Ernesto Perez is touching. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us….

Private First Class Richard Medina Escalera, Served with the 91st Evacuation Hospital, 67th Medical Group, 44th Medical Brigade, United States Army Vietnam.

May those who served never be forgotten. Rest in peace PFC. Escalera, I salute your brave soul. My heart goes out to you and your family.

You will forever remain in our hearts and prayers