THE WALL OF FACES

There are so many times that I think of you. For some reason, I seem to be thinking of you more. Perhaps it's getting old and I know it's been almost 50 years since you gave your life for our Country. It could also be because I just recently watched the series on The History Channel entitled "Vietnam." I knew how much you and all the other veterans went through, but I had no idea how much you went through. I only wish that every American could watch this series, especially the young people of today. I wish it would be mandatory for every high school show this series, I'm grateful every day for your service Gary, and you will never be forgotten. I'll talk to you like I always do at your grave site next memorial day! Best my Friend, Sharon

I always considered Gary as my best friend growing up together in Hudsonville, Michigan. The memories are too many to relate here but my favorites include sleepovers at his home, fishing off the pier in Holland with Gary's dad (Boots), sparring in his basement as he prepared for the Golden Gloves, joy riding on a "borrowed" motorcycle and on and on. When Gary left for Nam I had a strange feeling I wouldn't see him again. i entered the Army shortly after I last saw him and wondered if maybe we would somehow hook up in VietNam but as fate would have it I was sent to Germany instead. I was home on leave when word came that he had been KIA. I was honored to serve as a pallbearer at his funeral.
I'll never forget my pal Gary, I know someday we'll meet again.

Dear SGT Gary M Gryzen, 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

Gary was one of my earliest friends. I started kindergarten with him and graduated from high school with him.. I remember summers of playing baseball and just all the ordinary small town kids do. Our parents were also friends and we vacationed a summer together on Chippewa Lake. I remember Gary helping me bait my hook as we fished together in an old rowboat. He was one of the best kids a parent could ask for. He was so sweet and such a gentleman. I think about him so often, and I think of how brave he was. I will never forget him.

Wall Volunteer Michael McMahon made a donation in honor of Gary in order to help build the Education Center at The Wall. Read the story here: http:www.buildthecenter.vvmf.orgnewsentry117