THE WALL OF FACES

Operation Washington Green (April 15, 1969 - January 1, 1971) was a security and pacification operation conducted by the 173rd Airborne Brigade “Sky Soldiers” in Binh Dinh Province, RVN. The operation was designed to provide force support to the Government of Vietnam as they carried out pacification activities in the province. The Brigade conducted saturation patrols with as many as 140 separate units dispersed throughout the province with the intent to severely restrict the enemy’s freedom of movement. On January 9, 1970, a dispute between two Sky Soldiers resulted in a shooting incident at Fire Support Base Fred near the hamlet of Khanh Trach, seven kilometers (4.3 miles) northeast of Bong Son city. An infantryman from A Company, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, SP4 Jose F. Guerrero Jr., was at his unit’s command post when he was shot by another man from his platoon. Guerrero died instantly after sustaining multiple through-and-through wounds to his left abdomen. An investigation was opened to gather facts about his death; however, it is unclear what outcome it produced as the Army generally provided very little details regarding such incidents. Guerrero was posthumously promoted to Sergeant. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “Operational Report-Lessons Learned Headquarters, 173d Airborne Brigade, Period ending 31 January 1970” at archive.org]

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 sunlight 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.

You will forever remain in our hearts and prayers

The war may be forgotten but the warrior will always be remembered. All gave Some-Some gave All. Rest in peace Sky Soldier.

We will be honoring Jose F. Guerrero Jr. and other Vietnam fallen heroes from California Congressional District-46. If you would like to participate in the March 29, 2019 ceremony, please call Congressman Lou Correa's District Office at (714) 559 6190.