THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. While all deaths in Vietnam are tragic that you died just seven days before your 23rd birthday is especially so. May you rest in eternal peace.

PFC Wayne O. Feinauer was a military policeman serving with the 4th MP Company, 4th Infantry Division. On January 14, 1969, PFC Feinauer was the driver of a V-100 Commando armed convoy escort vehicle providing security for a convoy headed to Dak To on Highway QL-14 in Kontum Province, RVN. At approximately 11:30 AM, the Commando hit a mine on the northside of the road eight miles southeast of Dak To. Feinauer suffered fatal injuries in the blast; another soldier was reportedly wounded. Their vehicle sustained moderate damage. Feinauer was posthumously promoted to Corporal. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “Operational Report, 4th Infantry Division - Lessons Learned - re: Operation Binh Tay” at ttu.edu]

Dear Cpl Wayne Feinauer,
Thank you for your service as a Military Policeman. Another national holiday is coming, and we honor you this Labor Day. 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.

Wayne was always a good down to earth person, I went to Grade School, Junior High and High School with him. A lot of good memories of him. He always had such confidence in himself along with integrity. Such a warm personality. He was one of the few good people that I had the opportunity to cross paths with.

A Friend Always

Wayne,

When we left base camp that cool Jan morning, who would have thought that you would not be returning with us? Highway 14 , up and down, Pleiku to Kontum to Dak To and back, seven days a week, week after week, rain or shine, mud as deep as snow and dust so thick that it was like fog, tension that would tighten our neck muscles like piano wire and ambushes that would crank up our adrenaline in a microsecond. But there was no defense against a road mine ( they are called IEDS now) . I know that you did not suffer, and for that we are all grateful. I sent your possessions home and with them my part of my soul.

I finished my first tour three months after you left us, then I completed 2 more tours, back to back.

A few years ago I was fortunate enough to meet your brother Ted, your widow, Carol and other members of your family. I am grateful that I was able to answer their questions and share information about our lives in Vietnam with them.

Kind gentle people make it to heaven. I know that you are there. Still, I pray for you everyday.