THE WALL OF FACES

Semper Fi Marine

LCPL Robert C. Ewald was a message system specialist serving with Communication Support Company, 7th Communication Battalion, 1st Marine Division, III Marine Amphibious Force. During June 1968, the 7th Communication Battalion provided radio, communication center, radio relay, and telephone support throughout the I Corps Area (Military Region I). Ewald’s duties included operating teletypewriters and other communications center equipment as well as retrieving and logging messages. On the early morning of June 18th, he was assigned to an overnight security detail on the railroad and National Route QL-1 bridge crossing over the Song Cau Do (River), four kilometers (2.4 miles) south of Da Nang in Quang Nam Province, RVN. At approximately 1:30 AM, he reportedly was handling C-4 plastic explosive when the demolition charge detonated prematurely. Ewald was fatally injured after sustaining blast and fragmentation injuries to the head and body. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “7th Comm Bn Logistics Summary Report for June 1968” at ttu.edu]

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years. May you rest in eternal peace.

Dear Lcpl Robert Ewald,
Thank you for your service as a Communication Center Operator. 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.

Dear LCPL Robert Clarence Ewald, 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, Sir

Curt Carter