THE WALL OF FACES

On January 12, 1970, PVT Eugene Hood of the 1st Cavalry Division was about to be administratively discharged from the army when he threw a grenade at an NCO billet, injuring three sergeants. Not satisfied with the results, he grabbed his M-16 rifle and began menacing his victims, two who were now lying on stretchers awaiting medical evacuation. An alert soldier who happened to be on the scene managed to disarm Hood by knocking the weapon out of his hands, but the show was over when FSGT Thomas J. “Top” Vernor appeared. Never one to suffer indiscipline in the ranks, Vernor raised his own rifle and emptied half a magazine into Hood’s chest, killing him instantly. The CID investigated the incident and questioned several eyewitnesses. The CID concluded that the shooting was unlawful. However, Vernor, a decorated WW II, Korean War, and three-tour Vietnam veteran was spared criminal charges when the commanding officer exercised his prerogative and did not take any discipline action. [Taken from the book Fragging by George Lepre]

Dear PVT Eugene Hood, 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

Eugene is buried at Madison Cemetery, Montgomery,AL.

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.

Mary Frye – 1932

It is said a man hasn't died as long as he is remembered. This prayer is a way for families, friends and fellow veterans to remember our fallen brothers and sisters. Do not stand at my grave and weep I am not there, I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain, I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning hush, I am the swift, uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight, I am the stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there, I did not die