THE WALL OF FACES

I will never forget our time at the Basic School. There was no doubt you were the best athlete in our class. On this Memorial Day I Salute you.

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.

I am Steve's younger brother. I always looked up to Steve as my hero. He was larger than life to me growing up. We were at the American School in Monterrey, then I followed him to San Marcos Military Academy in Texas, and finally to Baylor University. Your service in the Marine Corp made me so proud of you. Miss you terribly. Jim

First Lieutenant Benjamin Stephen Fordham, Served with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 26th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

This week, the American School Foundation of Monterrey (ASFM) will be honoring students who demonstrated the same life skills as Benjamin Stephen Fordham. These include leadership, responsibility, citizenship and academic performance. I didn't know Mr. Fordham, yet as a school leader I am entrusted to present this award to a student at each grade level beginning in grade 1. It is an honor to do so. His legacy will forever be a part of our tradition at ASFM. We thank Stephen, surviving veterans and all of the armed forces personnel who gave their lives for our freedoms.