THE WALL OF FACES

If I should die, and leave you here awhile, be not like others, sore undone, who keep long vigils by the silent dust, and weep...for MY sake, turn again to life, and smile...Nerving thy heart, and trembling hand to do something to comfort other hearts than thine...Complete these dear, unfinished tasks of mine...and I, perchance, mayt therein comfort you.

John and I were Classmates and Company mates at West Point. His energy and sense of humor made a strong impression on all of us. After graduation, we both were assigned to the Second Armored Cavalry Regiment in Germany. Since John was in Bayreuth while I was in Bamberg, we saw little of each other but we stayed in touch [there was no e-mail in those days].



It was in Viet Nam that I heard of John's death and it profoudly saddened and affected me. I still think about him frequently.



John, your work is done and your course on earth is run,



"Well done, Be thou at peace."



 

John was assigned to the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (Blackhorse) at the time of his death. 11th Armored Cavalry Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia are attempting to locate relatives of all of our Troopers who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam. Please contact us at: [email protected] or through our website: http://www.11thcavnam.com

POST-TO-POST HORSE-TO-HORSE AND ONTO FIDDLERS GREEN ALLONS AND AMEN.

I am Lauren, Captain Hays' daughter and I am deeply touched by all of the sentiments and remembrances of my father. I never met my father, I was 6 months old when he was killed. My grandmother and mother have told me many stories about him. However, to read what his comrades have written about him and to hear what he was like during his time in Vietnam is very important to me. I have outlived my father by 10 years and I now have a family of my own. My son, is named after him and we will tell him all about his grandfather and what a Hero is was. Thank you everyone who has taken the time to write in remembrance of John Hulsey Hays. May God Bless You All.

I served with Captain Hays as his Track Commander in Vietnam. We were together every day and night for months, including when he died.
In all the years since, he was, by far, the best "Leader" I have ever known. His demeanor, high standards, and quiet example, have served as my own personal guide throughout my life.
I will always miss his guidance, encouragement, and friendship. He was, and always will be, My Captain!