THE WALL OF FACES

Private First Class Donald Owen Hartman, Served with Company C, 1st Battalion, 501st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, United States Army Vietnam.

Remember to save for them a place inside of you, and save one backward glance when you are leaving, for the places they can no longer go...

We were still on the hill on Op Lamar Plain when your friends in Charlie Co. told me about your death. I was immediately saddened; I was looking forward to our planned R&R. You were a darned good friend. I still think about you to this day, how unfair life can be. I've learned a lot about you on this page. Everyone has good memories of you. I know your in Heaven looking down upon us, God Bless

I remember 8th Grade English - you thought I was brilliant, I thought you were hilarious. I cheered you at basketball games and grieved when you became a victim of Vietnam. I prayed for your dad, because I could always see the pride on his face as he watched your skills displayed on the court. Yours is one of the names for which I searched on The Wall. I recall the jolt of sorrow at each discovery, but finding and touching each name was a small thing I could do to honor you.
I suppose you and your dad are together again by now. Save up your questions about grammar and spelling until I arrive.

Dear PFC Donald Hartman,
Thank you for your service as an Infantryman. Today is Palm Sunday. The war was years ago, but we all need to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.