THE WALL OF FACES

DEAR CORPORAL BANEK,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AS A GRUNT. ELECTION IS TODAY - WATCH OVER AMERICA. IT NEEDS YOUR GRACE. VETERANS' DAY IS APPROACHING - SO IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER AND HONOR ALL OF YOU. MAY THE SAINTS AND ANGELS GUIDE YOU. REST IN PEACE.

Private First Class Banek distinguished himself while serving as a Rifleman with D, 2/35th Infantry. On 27 September 1968, Company D was called to the aid of a five-man listening and observation post which made contact with a large enemy force in a well-camouflaged bunker complex. Private First Class Banek's company, upon reaching the beleaguered patrol, was immediately placed under a devastating barrage of light weapons and grenade fire. Private First Class Banek immediately upon contact moved out to the flank to provide security for the point element. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he moved well out in front of the maneuvering element and engaged the enemy. Private First Class Banek eliminated several enemy soldiers by firing his weapon and throwing hand grenades into the brunt of the attack aimed at his position. Private First Class Banek continued his support and cover of the other elements until he was mortally wounded by the intense enemy fire. Private First Class Banek's exceptional courage, personal bravery, and complete devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. [Taken from PFC Banek’s Bronze Star citation on 6thofthe31st.com]

Dear CPL Lawrence Benjamin Banek, 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

Lawrence is buried at Mt Calvary Cemetery in Cumberland, RI. BSM PH

Taken from the website:

http://www.cacti35th.org/regiment/kia/kia_details.php?person_id=579&battalion=2nd