THE WALL OF FACES

Dear CPL Thomas Albert Krispin, 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

Semper Fi, Corporal.

Thomas Albert Krispin
Marine Corps Corporal

Born: April 22, 1947
Died: September 10, 1967

Thomas Albert Krispin attended Alexander Ramsey High School in Roseville, Minnesota and graduated in June of 1965. After graduation, he worked at Custom Display in St. Paul, until he enlisted in the Marines in August, 1966.
Tom was proud to be a Marine, and he knew he would be an excellent one. The Marine Corps had been his preference since he was 15. He received his training at Camp Pendleton, California and was assigned to Vietnam in February of 1967.
We lost Tom on September 10, 1967. He was killed in action in the vicinity of Quang Tri in the Republic of Vietnam. Tom sustained wounds in the head and body from hostile mortar fire while engaged in action against hostile forces. He served as a radio operator for both his Executive and Commanding Officers, and was assigned to Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Division.
Tom was survived by his parents, his brother, Jack, who was his true companion; many loving aunts and uncles, cousins; and many friends. We all miss him so very much and the hurt and emptiness will never go away. We do find solace and comfort in knowing Tom made the supreme sacrifice in the service of his country for the cause of freedom.
Tom was a very dedicated young fellow and was commended for excellent achievement in any task that he undertook. We know this exemplary quality was carried out to the fullest while he was in the Marines.
Tom was laid to rest at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in St. Paul on September 25, 1967. The military funeral was a lasting farewell that he truly earned and so justly deserved. Hundreds of his friends were proud to be in attendance and say their last "good-byes."
Tom, we love you deeply-miss you terribly-but you will live in all of our hearts forever. God Bless You.

Mom and Dad

From "The Faces Behind the Names," by Don Ward

Semper Fidelis, Marine!

Thomas, Although we never met, I just want you to know you are not forgotten. You gave the ultimate sacrifice, your life for what you believed in. Sleep well my friend, and thank you for protecting the freedoms we still enjoy today.

Thomas is buried at Ft Snelling Nat Cem.