THE WALL OF FACES

Private First Class Earl Wayne Goodall, Served with Company A, 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, United States Army Vietnam.

"I can confirm that Pfc’s James E. Farrar and Earl W. Goodall were both assigned to ABU, 1/327th when they were KIA as was Lt. Kenneth G. Collins when he was wounded in his left eye. These three were officially cited in Bde orders for their heroic actions and those orders were issued on site at Dak To within days of the 1/327th marching out of the jungle and “passing in review” of the Bde staff and assembled dignitaries. I have a copy of that Honor Roll which was published in ‘The Diplomat and Warrior”, the Bde newspaper, at that time and I’m sure Ivan Worrell could probably dig up that issue from his files, as he was the Public Information Officer [PIO] and Editor. You can get a good overview of that battle by reading those chapters in “Battles in the Monsoon” written by SLA Marshall and published in 1967, or similar chapters in ” About Face” by Dave Hackworth, COL, USA, Ret’d, who, as a Major, commanded the 1/327th, for the entire battle." Pete Mitchell passed away July 26th, 2003

Dear PFC Earl Goodall,
I hope your photo is put here because this wall of faces needs yours. Thank you for your service as an Airborne Qualified Infantryman. 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.

After 50 years I have finally learned your name. We did not know each other but your situation is forever in my memory. I was a new 2nd Lieut that took over the 1st platoon of ABU company in the middle of the battle of Dak To days after you lost your life. Your comrades tried to extract your body but had to hide you to save their own lives. After the battle and the troops were given a short time to recover from their ordeal, I was directed to take my platoon and a Graves Registration team back into the jungle and recover your remains.

During all the turmoil of battle and the need to quickly learn how to be a combat leader, it didn't occur to me to learn your name. That was for the GR folks and administrators in the rear. I have regretted that for 50 year.

Two weeks ago I attended the dedication of the memorial to the 327th KIAs of Vietnam at Ft Campbell. At a gathering of fellow ABU veterans, I finally learned your name. I proud to have helped return you to your loved ones.

"Above the Res"

Dear PFC Earl Wayne Goodall, 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