THE WALL OF FACES

On the remembrance of your 70th birthday, your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Forever 18.

HOOAH

Dear Sgt Stephen Johnson, Thank you for your service as a Flight Qualified Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice with the 1st Cavalry. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. The time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

You were one of the brave that answered the call. You honored us by your service and sacrifice. We now honor you each time we stand and sing the words “THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE”. Rest in Peace and Honor Stephen.

On June 3, 1969, a U.S. Army helicopter UH-1H (tail number 67-17809) from 2nd Brigade Combat Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), was shot down shortly after takeoff from Phuoc Vinh. The aircraft crashed and burned. There were no survivors. The crew included aircraft commander WO1 Walter S. Seddig, pilot 1LT Charles Vale, crew chief SP4 Gregory R. Vogler, and gunner SGT Stephen D. Johnson. There were two passengers aboard also, WO1 Thomas M. Bonnie and WO1 Donald H. Richardson. Warrant Officers Richardson and Bonine had caught a ride from Phu Loi to Phuoc Vihn and were killed on the subsequent return flight. [Taken from vhpa.org]

Dear SGT Stephen Duane Johnson, 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, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter