THE WALL OF FACES

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'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.

Dear Lt Stephen Kaster, Thank you for your service as an Infantry Unit Commander. I researched you on the 49th anniversary of the start of your tour. Your 49th anniversary was 3 days ago, sad. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Election Day is today. The time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

This is a 1966 picture of Stephen at Saint John’s College in Collegeville, Minnesota. The photo was provided by Herb Reckinger Jr. of Cottage Grove, Minnesota. Thank you Herb!

Stephen, it is with great humility, pride and honor that Herb and I post this remembrance for you and upload your photo so that your memory and the sacrifice you made for your country will never be forgotten and to ensure your photo will be displayed on your birthday each and every year when the Education Center is completed. You are not forgotten and remain in the hearts of many after all these years. Thank you Stephen for being who you were and for all you did. We live in freedom to this day thanks to heroes like you that answered the call to duty.

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.

Dear 1LT Stephen Joseph Kaster, 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

Now that my brother Kelley is several years removed from Vietnam days, he is beginning to share some of his recollections. Kaster was a good friend to my brother while they trained together. Kelley was delayed in being sent over there, and he was devastated by the loss of his good friend. It is with difficulty that he even discusses it now. Kaster was a great guy!