THE WALL OF FACES

SP4 Albert T. Ball’s death announcement from the Kingsport Times (VA), October 8, 1971, courtesy of Phil Edwards, Information Technology Specialist I, Wampler Library, Mountain Empire Community College, Big Stone Gap, VA.

DEAR SPEC 4 BALL,
I HOPE YOUR PHOTO GETS PUT HERE BECAUSE THIS IS A WALL OF FACES AND YOURS IS NEEDED. THANKS FOR BEING A HEAVY VEHICLE DRIVER.
ELECTION DAY IS NEAR AND VETERANS' DAY IS APPROACHING, MAY THE SAINTS AND ANGELS GUIDE YOU. REST IN PEACE.

Dear SP4 Albert Thomas Ball, 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

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 sun 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.

Mary Frye – 1932

Dear Albert, Thank you for your willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice to help this country. America will never forget your loyalty. Every time an American citizen looks at the Vietnam Wall they will think of how you showed your unselfishness by giving your life to keep America strong. God Bless! Sincerely, Marissa