THE WALL OF FACES

Dear PFC Tom Jay Bagenstose, 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, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter

Even though i have never met you. My grandmother viki ( your love) has told me stories of you and your best friend Barry. I hope you are watching over me. One day we will meet in heaven.

I did not know PFC Tom Bagenstose but I served with the 25th Infantry Division (1-27 Infantry Wolfhounds) from 1969-70. I salute your Service and Sacrifice. May you find the peace of the Lord and your family and friends as well.

Tom is buried at Pleasant View Cemetery, Spring TWP,Berks County,PA.

Before enlisting in the Army with a friend, Tom had worked at Textile Machine Works after graduating from Reading High School in 1965. He was born in Reading and was a member of Christ Lutheran Church. Tom enjoyed sports, particularly stock-car racing. He had made no special plans for after the service.
In Vietnam, he was a member of Company D, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. In his letters home, he stated he felt he should be in Vietnam.
Tom was killed by small-arms fire in a battle near Chu Chi.
Surviving at the time were his mother, father, and one brother.
He was in Vietnam 27 days.
He was 20 years old.
Further compounding the tragedy, Tom's father, Francis, who was celebrating his 47th birthday at the time, collapsed and died after he read the telegram notifying him of his son's death.

From the Berks County Vietnam Memorial dedication booklet.