THE WALL OF FACES

MSGT John H. Gregory Jr. was quartermaster supply specialist serving with Military Equipment Delivery Team, Cambodia, U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC). On September 26, 1971, MSGT Gregory was in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, when terrorists hurled two homemade grenades into a playground where U.S. Embassy personnel and dependents were playing a softball game. Gregory was one of two Americans killed in the attack. The second fatality was Marine embassy guard SGT Charles W. Turberville. Another 10 were wounded. The terrorists, described as two youths riding motorcycles, tossed the explosives among players and spectators at the game being played less than 200 yards from the home of the U.S. Chancellery. Witnesses said they pulled the grenades from their shirts and threw them at the home plate area. They escaped in the confusion after the explosions. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “Red Grenades Kill 2 Yanks at Ball Game.” Chicago Times, September 27, 1971]

Dear MSGT John Henry Gregory Jr, 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

John is buried at Erwin Memorial Park in Harnett County, NC.

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.

Mary Frye – 1932

Every time I hear the national anthem, I will think of you. Every time I see the Stars and Stripes waving in the breeze, I will remember your sacrifice. Every time I place my hand over my heart and recite the pledge of allegiance, I will be reminded of your courageous gift of liberty to our country. God bless America. Gratefully, Joel Campbell