THE WALL OF FACES

Some may think you are forgotten
Though on earth you are no more
But in our memory you are with us
As you always were before….

Dear Lcpl John Lafler, Thank you for your service as a Machine Gunner. I researched you on your 70th birthday, happy birthday. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. For many of us, we have begun Lent. The time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

LCPL John J. Lafler was a Machine Gunner serving with 1st Platoon, B Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines. On August 27, 1970, LCPL Lafler was with members of his squad at a listening post (LP) three miles southwest of Thang Binh in Quang Nam Province, RVN. At approximately 11:15 PM, four M26 grenades were tossed at their position. Lafler was fatally injured in the attack, and three other Marines were killed. The LP requested a reaction force, and another squad of Marines was sent to their assistance. The reaction force arrived and reconned the nearby tree line with M79 grenade fire. A medivac was called and removed the dead and injured. A search of the immediate area revealed blast holes from the four M26 grenades within a 50-foot radius of the LP. No other findings were noted. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and Command Chronology, 7th Marines, August 1970]

Lance Corporal John James Lafler, Served with the 1st Platoon, Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

Dear LCPL John James Lafler, 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