THE WALL OF FACES

Dear Sp4 Freddie Haynes,
Thank you for your service as a Flight Qualified Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice. 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.

Dear SP4 Freddie Neil Haynes, 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

Distinguished Service Cross

Awarded posthumously for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Specialist Fourth Class Freddie Neil Haynes, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with 57th Aviation Company, 52d Aviation Battalion, 17th Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade. Specialist Fourth Class Haynes distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 12 November 1969 while serving as doorgunner on a transport helicopter supporting the 5th Special Forces. While at the encampment at Dak Pek, the crews of four helicopters came under intense enemy mortar attack. When the initial incoming round wounded four pilots, Specialist Haynes immediately went to their assistance and helped them to seek shelter in a slight depression in the ground. As the shells continued to pound the area, Specialist Haynes ran into the open to prepare two aircraft for take-off. One of the helicopters received a direct mortar hit, and although wounded by shrapnel, Specialist Haynes approached the burning ship and extracted the injured pilot. Minutes later as he was helping the wounded pilot aboard a second craft, Specialist Haynes was fatally wounded. Specialist Fourth Class Haynes extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 381 (February 11, 1970)

Action Date: November 12, 1969

Service: Army

Rank: Specialist Fourth Class

Company: 57th Aviation Company

Battalion: 52d Aviation Battalion

Regiment: 17th Combat Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade

Freddie is buried at Mt Zion Cemetery, Redwood,MS. DSC AM-13OLC PH

Freddie, Although we never met,
I just want you to know you are
not forgotten. You gave the ultimate
sacrifice, your life for what you believed
in. Sleep well my friend, and thank you
for protecting the freedoms we enjoy
today.
A true American Hero.