THE WALL OF FACES

After all these years. I, Joe Jesse Aguilera came across old negatives. Francis, I took this last picture of you kneeling next to our temporary shelter & shared a fox hole not shown on top a hill. A few hours later, we were picked for night patrols. Fate intervened, I was picked w/ 4 other Marines to a listening post at the end of Dong Ha runway. Francis was picked with another new Marine rifleman (passenger) & Navy corpsman (driver). For a 3-man night rat patrol with LIGHTS on. We saw Francis & crew 2 or 3 times? at a distance patrolling the only dirt highway in our area. Then nothing, we did not here the explosion. We went back to camp. Was told, Francis & crew were ambushed. A satchel charge thrown by waiting NVA on the edge of a low cliff. Francis & other Marine died instantly. Navy Corpsman survived but very critical. I pray for all the fallen. You’re never forgotten my friend

On the remembrance of your 71st birthday, your sacrifice is not forogotten.

Forever 18.

Semper Fi, Marine.

Dear PFC Francis Lamon, Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. 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.

Private First Class Francis William Lamon Jr., Served with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

Semper Fidelis, Marine.