THE WALL OF FACES

Dear Lt Stephen Gravrock,
Thank you for your service as a Tactical Aircraft Pilot. 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.

The Battle of An Loc (April 13, 1972 – July 20, 1972) was a major battle of the Vietnam War that lasted for 66 days and culminated in a decisive victory for South Vietnam. In many ways, the struggle for An Loc in 1972 was an important battle of the war, as South Vietnamese forces halted the North Vietnamese advance towards Saigon. The siege of An Loc was officially declared to be over on June 18th but the area was still heavily infiltrated by NVA troops. During a dusk close air support mission at An Loc, 1LT Stephen H. Gravrock from 8th Special Operations Squadron, 377th Air Base Wing (377 ABW), was flying a Cessna A-37 Dragonfly in support of ARVN troops. He was about to drop a load of napalm when his aircraft was hit by ground fire and crashed before he could eject. [Source memwall.usafalibrary.com]

Dear 1LT Stephen Howard Gravrock, 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

Stephen is buried at United States Air Force Academy Cemetery, Colorado Springs, El Paso County,CO.

We were both pilots in the 8th SOS, I was flying on Grock's wing when he was shot down supporting a Vietnamese Army unit with American advisors. I've flown fighters in two wars, this was the worst day of my 27 year flying career by far. He was a great pilot and an even better guy. Cheers,