THE WALL OF FACES

Bernie, we both served in the 35th SPS, K-9 at Pham Rang during 1967. We knew each other as brothers-in-arms. Like the rest of us, you went on patrol most every night seeking to detect, report, and , if necessary, engage snipers and sappers who wanted to penetrate the perimeter and do us all harm. You did your job. I will always remember you as a brother-in-arms.

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.

Airman First Class Bernard Francis Ford, Served with the 35th Security Police Squadron, 35th Combat Support Group, 35th Tactical Fighter Wing, 7th Air Force.

Dear A1C Bernard Ford,
Thank you for your service with the Tactical Fighter Wing. It is now fall, and as the seasons pass, it is important to remember you all. 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.

A1C Bernard F. Ford was U.S. Air Force dog handler attached to the 35th Security Police Squadron, 12th Tactical Fighter Wing, 7th Air Force. On July 5, 1967, A1C Ford was patrolling with his dog in the Juliet area perimeter along its many towers at Phan Rang Air Base when personnel in the security towers heard a shot ring out. The tower closest to Ford tried to contact him and when there was no reply a USAF Security jeep (SAT jeep) responded to the area. Tensions were high because the perimeter security did not know if a probe was underway or not. Ford was found shot from an accidental weapon discharge. It was determined that Airman Ford had a chambered round and the weapon accidently went off when his dog lunged for some reason with the round passing through his head, killing him instantly. Security police had to get some other K9 handlers to get control of his dog before anyone could get to him, the dog not allowing anyone near him. Security police on duty were admonished to have an empty chamber in their weapons, but when the shot rang out and Ford did not answer, it was reported that rounds could be heard being chambered all along the Juliet posts. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and vspa.com]