THE WALL OF FACES

On November 2, 1970, a U.S. Army Grumman OV-1C (67-18897) from the 131st Aviation Company (Aerial Surveillance) was conducting an infrared reconnaissance mission in Quang Nam Province, RVN, when it struck a ridgeline in the Que Son Mountains. The flight was reportedly coming out of a run at the end of a valley 11 kilometers (6.6 miles) southeast of An Hoa Air Field when it impacted on the ridge. The crash destroyed the Mohawk and killed pilot CWO George H. Rogalla and observer SP4 John C. King. A 3/5 Marine patrol discovered the crash site two days later. Remains of the flight crew were found amongst the charred wreckage of the aircraft. A deployed parachute was located, suggesting that one crewman attempted a bailout. Camera equipment from the aircraft, portions of its radio, ID tags, fragments of a flight suit, and a Seiko watch were also collected. Removal of the remains was completed by a U.S. Army Graves Registration team. Additionally, the Marines located the graves of five North Vietnamese Army soldiers which appeared to have been killed by airpower several days prior to the crash. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and virtualwall.org]

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. We should be forever thankful for the sacrifices of you and so many others to ensure the freedoms we so often take for granted.

We ran on the track team together and served in Vietnam at the same time. Remember you well. RIP

Dear Sp4 John King, Thank you for your service as an Aerial Sensor Specialist. Your 70th birthday is soon, happy birthday. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. It is almost Christmas. The time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

Specialist Four John Chester King, Served with the 131st Aviation Company (Aerial Surveillance), 212th Aviation Battalion, 16th Aviation Group, Americal Division, United States Army Vietnam.