THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. Your Silver Star citation attests to your courage and devotion to your fellow soldiers. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us….

The war may be forgotten but the warrior will always be remembered. All gave Some-Some gave All. Rest in peace Sky Soldier.

CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Mark Alan Hensley, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Hensley distinguished himself by gallant actions on 19 September 1970, while serving as a rifleman with Company B, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate), on a combat operation in the Nui Mieu mountains in the Republic of Vietnam. On that date, while searching for a Viet Cong Prisoner of War camp in an area known to contain enemy soldiers, Private Hensley's element spotted an enemy soldier at the entrance to a cave and took him under fire. Two of Private Hensley's fellow soldiers entered the cave and began a search. Once inside the cave they began receiving enemy sniper fire and one of them was immediately wounded. Private Hensley, realizing the urgency of the mission, completely disregarded his personal safety and volunteered to go into the cave in an attempt to save his buddies and successfully complete the mission. He was able to reach the wounded man but when he began to move him to the entrance of the cave the enemy again opened fire and he was mortally wounded. As a result of his heroic actions Private Hensley imparted a sense of urgency, purpose, and determination to the men of Company B that subsequently played a key role in the success of the mission. His valorous efforts in the face of enemy fire helped to disrupt the enemy operation and indirectly save the lives of many of his comrades. Private First Class Hensley's extraordinary heroism and profound concern for the lives of his fellow soldiers were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Dear Cpl Mark Hensley, Thank you for your service as an Airborne Qualified Infantryman. Please watch over the USA, it still needs your courage. Rest in peace with the angels.

On behalf of his fellow paratroopers from the 173rd "Herd" Airborne Brigade, including myself and brothers who also served in RVN, I offer regrets and respect for your sacrifice. May you and yoiur fellow fallen comrades never be forgotten.