THE WALL OF FACES

Last Memorial Day I was asked to speak at a local ceremony concerning my Vietnam experience. I took the opportunity to read the eight names of the crew members and pilots killed in a tragic accident during my tour in the 155th AHC. Rest in Peace Herbert, you are still remembered and mourned.

We can never truly repay the debt we owe our fallen heroes. Without people like you our great nation wouldn't exist. RIP WO. Hayashida.

Uncle Herbert I thank you for your sacrifice for all of us in our country.

Uncle,
I wish I could have met you because I'm positive you were a great man like my grandfather Stanley Hayashida (your brother). When I was 16 I viewed the Vietnam Veteran Memorial in Washington D.C. with my school and I viewed your name on the wall. As I viewed your name on the wall to take a photo, my reflection quickly caught my eye. It was as if I was looking into a portal to the past, as if I could see all of you who sacrificed your lives (this I have a photo of). I am now 44, my grandfather (your brother) has passed and part of his moral character is left with me. I am thankful to be a relative of your honorable family. God bless you Uncle. You are not forgotten.
~Much Love and Respect
J.R.

Dear WO Herbert Hayashida,
Thank you for your service as an Utility & Light Cargo Single Rotor Helicopter Pilot. Your 51st anniversary just passed, sad. 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.