THE WALL OF FACES

Gonsalves and I were buddies.While killing time waiting at Fort Campbell to be deployed on that Dec.day 1967,we were running routes playing football.He could throw a football right through you. I will never forget him.I was WIA 1 month earlier.

Dear Sgt August Gonsalves,
Thank you for your service as an Airborne Qualified Infantryman. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. 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.

There is a flag dedicated to August Gonsalves Jr in my father's (David Salogar) front yard in Bay City, Michigan. On the plaque it states "He gave me water, when I had none." I don't know the full story, but I have heard that after a long hike and over heated, my father tipped up his canteen only to find it empty. August gave my father his water. I have heard him say "he was the best damn Sargent I ever had." We can all infer that he gave my father more than water.

Thank you for your service,

Luke Salogar

I served with Auggie in the Dominican Republic. We became friends both coming from Boston. He was a tremendous athlete and good guy.

Dear SGT August Gonsalves Jr, sir,

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for the ultimate sacrifice that you 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. And please know that men and women like you have stepped forward to defend our country yet again, showing the same love for country and their fellow Americans that you did- you would be proud.

With respect, and the best salute that a civilian can muster for you.

Curt Carter