THE WALL OF FACES

PFC Duane K. Heiser was an infantryman serving with A Company, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division. When the 1/18th arrived in Vietnam in July 1965 as part of 2nd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, it provided security around Bien Hoa Air Base in Bien Province, RVN. On March 15th, Heiser’s platoon was clearing a area for a new base camp near the Song Tre (river), six kilometers (3.6 miles) southeast of Ga Trang Bom on National Route QL-1, when U.S. Air Force fighter bombers dropped fragmentation bombs on his group. The platoon leader yelled for his men to scatter, and as they did, a second bomb hit. The blast tossed the platoon leader upside down against a tree. He watched as Heiser ran for cover. Before he could reach shelter, Heiser was hit by a canister of napalm, an incendiary weapon containing a gelling agent and volatile petrochemical (usually gas or diesel fuel). He died after sustaining 3rd degree burns to his entire body. The Army reported Heiser’s death as the result of hostile action; however, they failed to disclose it occurred as a consequence of friendly fire. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and virtualwall.org]

Private First Class Duane Kenneth Heiser, Served with Company A, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from your brother David is touching and reflects his eternal love for you. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us….

Dear PFC Duane Heiser,
Thank you for your service as an Infantryman. 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.

Duane, as March approaches yet again, I think of you and the others from Bennett who will forever be nineteen. You were a second older brother to me, and I can still see you under my father's instruction as he taught you the Manual of Arms before you left to report. I'll always be thankful you got me into the CAP and were a mentor that I needed. It was because of you I went off to the Academy and spent 37 years trying to be a worthy member of the Defense of out Country. You will always be a hero to me and never forgotten.