THE WALL OF FACES

Larry was 2 years younger than I was, growing up in Mora.

I don't remember exactly when we actually started becoming friends, but I do remember the first time I noticed him. He sang a solo for a talent contest - "(They Say) I'm Robbin' the Cradle" as a boy soprano. Just an amazing voice! And not shy at all.

Later when we did "The Music Man" in high school, Larry & I were half of the barbershop quartet that sang "Lida Rose" and the other great quartets from that show.

And I remember riding the band bus to away games with Larry. (I was taller, but he was the trombone player!)

I was honored to have him give me a tour of that museum at some point. When he was describing it, I didn't know what to think. When I saw it, I was amazed.

After I went off to college, we corresponded (with actual letters back then) - he was a funny guy. Later I remember hearing that he had gone into the service - was he drafted?

And in '69, I thought I heard his name on the radio one morning on my commute into work. I scoured the paper that evening to try to find out for sure. Then my mom called from Mora to let me know that one of his sisters (Janice, I think) would be calling to ask if I would be a pall bearer. Of course, I said "yes." The funeral was in that big church on Union St. right as you drive into town from the south. (It's Emmanuel Baptist now; was it then?) And then that long slow ride out to the cemetery. A very sad day. What a tragedy for all of us.

I still miss him.

Dear PFC Larry Russell Gilbertson, sir

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for your sacrifice made on behalf of our wonderful country. The youth of today could gain much by learning of heroes such as yourself, men and women whose courage and heart can never be questioned.

May God allow you to read this, and may He allow me to someday shake your hand when I get to Heaven to personally thank you. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love you.

With respect, Sir

Curt Carter

Photo and information was taken from the historic book “THE FACES BEHIND THE NAMES - The Vietnam War” with the permission of author Don Ward. Acknowledgement and a thank you go to Mr. Ward and Larry’s sister, Jan Elvehjem.

Larry, it is with great humility, pride and honor that Herb and I post this remembrance for you and upload your photo so that your memory and the sacrifice you made for your country will never be forgotten and to ensure your photo will be displayed on your birthday each and every year when the Education Center is completed. You are not forgotten and remain in the hearts of many after all these years. Thank you Larry for being who you were and for all you did. We live in freedom to this day thanks to heroes like you that answered the call to duty.

Photo and information was taken from the historic book “THE FACES BEHIND THE NAMES - The Vietnam War” with the permission of author Don Ward. Thank you Mr. Ward and Larry’s sister, Jan Elvehjem.

Photo and information was taken from the historic book “THE FACES BEHIND THE NAMES - The Vietnam War” with the permission of author Don Ward. Thank you Mr. Ward and Larry’s sister, Jan Elvehjem.

Larry, it is with great humility, pride and honor that Herb and I post this remembrance for you and upload your photo so that your memory and the sacrifice you made for your country will never be forgotten and to ensure your photo will be displayed on your birthday each and every year when the Education Center is completed. You are not forgotten and remain in the hearts of many after all these years. Thank you Larry for being who you were and for all you did. We live in freedom to this day thanks to heroes like you that answered the call to duty.