THE WALL OF FACES

COL Lester E. Holmes was a Covey Forward Air Controller assigned to the 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron at Da Nang. On May 22, 1967, he was flying USAF O-1E Birddog (#51-12102) five miles northwest of Thon Can So, just outside the northern edge of the DMZ. Holmes was on a visual reconnaissance mission at 8,000 feet searching for SA-2 missile sites when his aircraft was blown out of the sky by an SA-2. His body was not recovered and he was promoted while missing. On September 8, 1999, remains believed to be Holmes were repatriated to the U.S. They were positively identified on September 25, 2003. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

American HERO, We will never forget you.........

Sgt.Robert A Friend 1st. COMBAT Eng. 1st, Inf., Div. Viet Nam 66-68

Having lost my brother Richard Friend in Viet Nam in 1968 I know the pain your family and friends feels. If it's of any peace to them remember this.
Though you are gone you will never be forgotten! You and men
like you, are the reason we are free today! I just wanted to say THANK YOU for the sacrifices that you made! I hold you and those like you in the highest regard and you deserve nothing less! American's love you all, you were and always will be HEROES to me! I promise never to take for granted the freedoms I have, which you paid the ultimate price for!
Let no man be forgotten…I WILL REMEMBER YOU. God's Peace to you and your family. "REST IN PEACE HERO, REST IN PEACE".

Dear Colonel Lester Evan Holmes, 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, Sir

Curt Carter

He was a great pilot and a master sharpshooter with a pistol and rifle. He enjoyed his three sons shooting with him and also playing baseball.

Flying was his life and love.

Lester is buried at Greenwood Cemetery, Ionia, Chickasaw County,IA.