THE WALL OF FACES

Dick was a close friend when we served together on the AC 130 gunships at Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base in eastern Thailand. I was a pilot and Dick was a sensor operator. We were both California guys and spent a lot of our down time listening to music, playing tennis and just enjoying each other's company. He was planning to stop by to visit me in the States when his tour at Ubon was over. I was totally devastated to learn that he was shot down and missing the last day of his tour. I think of him a lot and have to smile at all he good times we shared together.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from your brother Chip is moving and reflects his admiration and respect for you. It remains my fervent hope you will be returned home after the passage of so many years.

I wore Col Halpin’s POW bracelet until it wore thru. I keep it as reminder of the sacrifice Col. Halpin made for me and for our country. My sincere gratitude for your service and my condolences to your family.

Captain Halpin was my fraternity brother in Delta Sigma Phi at Loyola University of Los Angeles (now Loyola Marymount University), graduating the same year. I am proud that he served our country. He is not forgotten. Only now did I become aware of the Wall of Faces, otherwise a remembrance would have been posted.

This Memorial Day will mark the 49th such remembrance. I still cannot believe it’s been over 50 years since we last saw each other. Not a day goes by, that I don’t think about you and how you should be here with sibs Mimi, Helen, Patrick and Katie. Take care my brother and watch over us as you have all this time.
I love you.
Your brother, Chip