THE WALL OF FACES

"DJ" and I lived across the hall for five months at the Basic School.. He was the informal leader of our platoon of fifty Marine Officers, always surrounded by a crowd. A rubbing of his name is framed on my wall as I write--along with ten others friends and men in my Platoon who were killed in Vietnam. He was so full of life and energy and excitement. A natural leader. When I think of the tragic loss of life in this War, DJ is always first in my thoughts. I've gotten to have children, grandchildren and live a full life moving our society along and now a pretty long life. Sorry you did not get that, DJ. You deserved it.

Semper Fi, Marine.

Dear 2LT Drew James Barrett III, 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.

With respect, Sir

Curt Carter

Drew, my brother, then 2Lt Larry Kassin, now Major Kassin, USMC Retired, often speaks of your friendship, so I called him, from "The Wall", as I traced your name, and that of John M Joyce, who I believe you knew. I would have liked to know you, myself. Bruce Tucker, Captain, USMCR, Fox 2/8

Jimmy walked in while my brother & I were playing pool. Had not seen him since we played Pony League, but heard he was "draft exempt" due to 2 bad knees. Said his mother got him by the physical and was going to Vietnam. Next time I heard about him, my mother and his were at the funeral.