THE WALL OF FACES

Chris, It’s been over 50 years since we lost you. I remember all our days at American River JC and our working at the Citrus Heights Fire District. I followed you into the Army only a few months after we lost you. I fortunately made it home safely while you did not return to us. Such a tragedy. You are still missed after all these years.

I remember the day it happened. Coming out of Mokai canal, my boat was right behind his. Never saw the RPG, just saw the lumber on top of the hooch 'jump' a couple of feet, knew they had been hit, called the CO, who sent the maintenance boat up to assist, while I had my guys on the 39 open up with covering fire. Later, when we got set up at the next FSB, they carried his body bag off the boat. Up to that time, our company had never had a casualty (fatal). I have not forgotten that day. Chris was a good guy, even handed and liked by his crew. RIP.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from your friend, Richard Klingman, is very poignant. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us...

Specialist Five Christopher Delbert Bangs, Served with the 1097th Transportation Company (Medium Boat), 159th Transportation Battalion, 4th Transportation Command, United States Army Support Command (Saigon), 1st Logistical Command, United States Army Vietnam.

DEAR SPEC 5 BANGS,
THANKS FOR YOUR SERVICE AS A WATERCRAFT OPERATOR. ELECTION DAY IS TODAY - WATCH OVER AMERICA. IT STILL 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.