THE WALL OF FACES

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.

My Name is Daniel N. Gil, Cornel Gil was my uncle and older brother to my father. My father Daniel S. Gil was also a Marine and served in Vietnam. He joined the Marines shortly after my uncle was killed and later served in Vietnam himself. He did make it back from Nam, good thing or I wouldn't be writing this. My Dad was also a recipient of purple heart, which little did he know would put all of his kids through college.

As a kid my dad would take us to where my uncle is buried and he would always talk about him to us. They had a very close bond since they were very close in age. Their was a total of 9 kids in my fathers family and the two of them were tight. I could not imagine what it would be like to have lost a brother and best friend like my Dad did. I have a younger brother Richard Cornel Gil and to have lost him at 19 yrs old would be unimaginable. We are in our 40's and tighter than ever. My Dad loved his brother, to this day when I hear the song "Unchained Melody" I think about my uncle. My Dad would always tell us it was his favorite song. I really would have loved to meet him. I think he would of been one of my favorite uncles. It's too bad he left us so soon, but I am sure I will meet him on the other side one day.

Save me a seat at the table Tio!

DNG

This is his boot camp photo from Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Platoon 252. He earned the title “U.S. Marine” on April 18, 1966.

Thank you for your service to our great country my brother. Semper Fi.

Private First Class Cornel Gil, Served with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

Hello Cynthia,

I hope this message reaches you. My name is Steve Segura. I work for the City of East Chicago.
I was contacted by a man in Florida named Larry. He said that a friend of his found your Uncles Medals of Honor in a storage locker.

Larry is originally from Munster, IN and is looking to return these medals to the family of Cornel Gil.

You can contact me at the contact info below.

Sincerely,


Steve Segura
Multimedia Division / ECTV
4525 Indianapolis Blvd.
East Chicago, IN 46312
Ph: 219-391-8206
Cell: 219-670-8072