THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. Your Silver Star citation attests to your courage and devotion to your fellow marines. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us….

Bob and I met at NAS Jax July , 1964 preparing for our NROTC Med Cruise. We were together on the USS Cone, DD 866, loved Europe as only 18 year olds can. But we went Marine, being in the same OCS Plt at Quantico in 1966 then roomies at TBS the following year. It took Bob a month to convince me to move my wedding up from post Vietnam tour 1969 to 2 Sep 67. Naturally Bob was Janet’s and my Best Man. He took minimal leave after we graduated fm TBS 26 Nov 67, heading to 3rd MarDiv, Golf Co 2/9 pre TET 1968. After 2 Purple Hearts, he became an AO back seater in an O1 birddog piper cub. I have no idea how he fit his big 6’4” frame in that small back seat. Plus he got sick flying. He was going home for his mandatory 30 leave after extending for a 2nd VN tour on 26 Jan 69 Ironically we ran into each other that day at Danang Air base, I was heading to Hawaii for R&R. He came back to VN in Mar 69 and we saw each other a few times, But he was not at his squadron when I called to say goodbye, 7 May 69, I was rotating home. Bob was lost the day before. Not a day goes by where I don’t think of you, my friend, Semper fi, Peace My Brother

May those who served never be forgotten. Rest in peace MAJ. Hagan, I salute your brave soul. My heart goes out to you and your family. Semper Fidelis!

Major John Robert Hagan, Served with the Headquarters Company, Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

The attached photo is of my cousin, hero, and duty of service roll model Major John R. "Bob" Hagan. This was taken between his time as USN and beginning his time as an Officer with the USMC. I don't know the exact date of this picture of him holding me but it is prevalent in my home. I am guessing 1964ish. My last memory of Bob is when he was home in Savannah between his tours of duty in Vietnam. He took me into the woods behind my Aunt and Uncles home and showed me how to throw smoke canisters and talked about the pride of being a US Marine. I modeled my dedication after him in my long military and public safety career. I hope to see him again some time.