THE WALL OF FACES

On behalf of my high school students who are here with me, I want to thank you for your service and honor your sacrifice. I hope your family knows that you life mattered and your story is still being told.

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.

Now that I'm 74 years old I'm reminded of how blessed I am to get this far. I was with Monte when he died. He died quickly and I believe without pain. He was well liked and well missed in the platoon. We never had time to grieve.

You died 12 days before I was born, so we never met. But I remember you always. My dad, Carl, your uncle, talked about you often. He missed you every day. You are together once again. Thank you, and God bless to you all all you served with.

Sergeant Monte Leroy Gates, Served with Company B, 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, United States Army Vietnam.