THE WALL OF FACES

Joe and I were members of the Vanderbilt University chapter of Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity. He was a senior when I was a freshman so I didn't know him a long time, but he WAS memorable! I give him a slow, respectful "Hand, SALUTE" from a fellow pilot (US Army) veteran of the Vietnam War.

On October 8, 1968, CAPT Joseph W. Jones III and CAPT Daniel J. Coonon were killed when their McDonnell F-4B Phantom II from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 (VMFA-115) crashed as a result of enemy action while on a close-air-support mission near Da Nang. [Taken from archive.org]

Semper Fi, Captain.

Dear Captain Joseph W Jones 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.

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

If I should die, and leave you here awhile, be not like others, sore undone, who keep long vigils by the silent dust, and weep...for MY sake, turn again to life, and smile...Nerving thy heart, and trembling hand to do something to comfort other hearts than thine...Complete these dear, unfinished tasks of mine...and I, perchance, may therein comfort you.