THE WALL OF FACES

I came to pay tribute to Ross. My Uncle was the pilot he was checking out that day. I have heard his name many times. I have thought about the Barlow family and their loss many times. Too many brave young men were killed in that war.

I can still see you singing in Mr. Hatchett’s high school choir and standing at the ticket counter of the movie theater in San Benito. And I remember the painful visit Forrest Jackson and I made to your parents’ home after we learned of your death. Yours was a kind and gentle soul and I will never come to terms with the senseless way you were taken from your family and friends.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrances from friends and fellow soldiers are touching and attest to their love and admiration for you. May you rest in eternal peace.

Chief Warrant Officer Ross Owen Barlow, Served with the 116th Assault Helicopter Company, 269th Aviation Battalion, 12th Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade, United States Army Vietnam.

Dear Ross, I still vividly remember the day you asked to take my flight so that you could check out the new guy. Neither of us could have known what that simple request would cost. You were a close friend and a great pilot. We had so many laughs and long talks in the seven months we shared a hooch together. Your death still breaks my heart. Rest in peace honored friend.