THE WALL OF FACES

I never saw my Mamaw cry for her oldest son who was taken from this world. I wasn't there when our family suffered such devastating news. Our soldier was gone, never to have a family and enjoy life. His sacrifice was one of many in the time of war. That did not keep me from crying for him. I still today cry for him. All of my thanks go to soldiers who have given the ultimate sacrifice. I respect those who have served and currently serve. As my 3 children grow into adults I think about the opportunities that they have. My Uncle had no choices being poor back in the late 60's. His only way to college was to join the Marines. My oldest son graduated from College and he was the first in our family to do so! My daughter is in college now and my youngest son is graduating in 2015 from High School. Thank you Uncle Ronnie. As I cry for you it pushes me to be an encouraging mother who won't let her children feel as if they have no choices. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!

Dear SSGT Bernard Francis Kissell Jr, 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

Bernard is buried at Resurrection Cemetery, Philadelphia,PA. BSM AM-OLC

BERNARD F. KISSELL JR.



Bernard F. Kissel Jr., a native of the Tacony section of Philadelphia, attended Saint Leo's Elementary School at Keystone and Unruh Streets. In 1964, he graduated from Father Judge High School and participated in the ROTC program while attending Temple University.

"Bernie" Kissel was an industrious young man with a solid, promising future. He was scheduled to return home from Vietnam in three weeks and would have been married the week after his return. He was set to enter the family business, Triple B Automotive on James Street.

Sergeant Kissel was an aircraft mechanic assigned to Tan Son Nhut Air Base near Saigon. His aggressiveness and hard work were attributes that greatly helped him during his career in the military. Bernard Kissel died at the age of 22 on October 21, 1968 in Darlac Province, 19 miles southwest of Ban Me Thout. His parents and brother will always remember and love him.



Thank to Mike Dufner for the above photo and info.

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 sun 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.

Mary Frye – 1932