THE WALL OF FACES

Some may think you are forgotten
Though on earth you are no more
But in our memory you are with us
As you always were before

Private First Class Gary Wayne Hawkins, Served with Company D, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

Dear PFC Gary Hawkins,
Thank you for your service as an Infantryman. It is Easter week and Passover. 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.

You were one of the brave that answered the call. You honored us by your service and sacrifice. We now honor you each time we stand and sing the words “THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE”. Rest in Peace and Honor Gary.

Gary Wayne and I were best friends through grade school and junior high. In the sixth grade, we cut our thumbs and rubbed them together, to be blood brothers. I'm 67 now. He died at 19. I went off to college. He went off to war. He said he needed to grow up before trying college. I was at his funeral. I have not forgotten.