THE WALL OF FACES

Dear PVT Victoriano Espinoza,
Thank you for your service as a Machine Gunner. It is important for us to remember all of you. 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.

Victor, "Casper", I write tributes to veterans and post them on a social network, so this year, I posted one for every serviceman from Edinburg who lost his life in Vietnam on a site called "Remembering Edinburg When". I can't tell you how overwhelmed I was with the response I got when I posted your tribute. Everybody remembered you as such a happy, nice, friendly, outgoing person. I didn't think that the comments would ever stop, and I was stunned at how many people shared my tribute on their own sites so that more people could read about you. You are definitely not forgotten in Edinburg! The greatest reward that I got from doing this was having your brother, Rudy, get in touch with me because he wanted to talk to your buddy, John Mick. I gave him John's phone number and they apparently talked for quite a long time. Rudy sent me his thanks, but his wife sent me a message telling me that she hadn't seen him that happy in ages. Rudy and I were in school together, so I know that at our age, he wasn't told much. I'm sure that John answered any questions that he had, but more than anything, just knowing that you were with someone who loved you gave Rudy such a sense of peace. I've met your sisters, too, and one of them sent me pictures of you. The community is grateful that I am honoring all of you and not allowing you to be forgotten, which is good because I need their support to create a more lasting tribute to all of you for the sacrifice that you made. Be at peace; you are still loved, thought very highly of, and remembered with great affection.

Dear PVT Victoriano Espinoza Jr, 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

This was our first battle. I still think about you all the time Vick. I helped carry you back that afternoon and cried the whole time. Love and miss you Marine. You will never be forgotton!

Victor,
You gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and you will not be forgotten. Today I am writing to the City of Edinburg hoping to be able to name a street, building or park after you. May you rest in peace brother.