THE WALL OF FACES

During the period of August-October 1966, the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division performed counterinsurgency operations throughout Military Region III (MR III) in furtherance of Government of Vietnam control over the region. The Division sought to destroy Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army forces and their installations, and its presence contributed greatly to the security of the region and assured the success of the National Elections held in September where 80% of eligible voters went to the polls despite Viet Cong efforts to disrupt the process. To carry out its mission, the Division occupied five major base camps in MR III at Di An, Phu Loi, Lai Khe, Phuoc Vinh and Bear Cat. Movement of supplies and personnel between the base areas was frequent, and in October, Operation Norwalk (October 4th – 8th), a five-day convoy security mission, was carried out by one U.S. battalion (1/16) supported by 1/4 Cavalry with daily convoys between Di An and Lai Khe. During the mission, contact with the enemy was limited to sporadic harassing fire, mines, and booby traps. The operation resulted in one U.S. killed and six wounded. SP4 John P. Eynon, an infantryman from C-1/16, died October 4th from a gunshot wound to the head sustained in hostile ground action. Enemy losses over the same period were unknown. The operation terminated October 8th at 5:58 PM. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “Operational Report - Lessons Learned, 1st Infantry Division dated 1 Aug 1966 - 31 October 1966” at archive.org]

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrances from Roy Crabtree are moving. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us….

The only Wheatland High School (Wheatland California) graduate to give their last full measure of devotion in Vietnam.

Roy V Crabtree, Jr.
SFC, US ARMY
Retired

May those who served never be forgotten. Rest in peace SP4. Eynon, I salute your brave soul. My heart goes out to you and your family.

Specialist Four John Patrick Eynon, Served with Company C, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.