THE WALL OF FACES

I knew Joseph Baza as the oldest son of 15 children. I was his sister Mary's friend when I lived in Sunnyvale, CA. I have been to the WALL and have a rubbing of his name. I still fondly remember Joseph and honor his sacrifice to our country.

Joseph was part of the 1st Battalion 83rd Artillery in Vietnam and will be remembered always by his 1/83rd Family. Rest in Peace Brother.

Dear PFC Joseph Cruz Baza, 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.

With respect, Sir

Curt Carter

Joe is with me everyday on so many levels. His funeral was such an emotional event in my life. I can only imagine what the family went through and are still going through.

In high school, Joe started an exercise program of working up to 250 sit ups and 250 push ups everyday. Within a matter of months, he became so strong and his looks changed so much. Today as I do my 150 sit ups each morning, Joe is with me, pushing me on.

When I visited Wash. D.C. it was a cold snowy day in February and that would not keep me from visiting the wall. During my search for Joe's name tears came to my eyes. It is hard to remember the name without the blur of tears and time.
Miss you Joe. You are one of my heros.

Joe and I were classmates at Sunnyvale High School Class of 1964. We were on the track team where Joe was one of the few pole vaulters. That was a crazy event. I was a distance runner which allowed you to keep your feet on the ground. How did he keep up his confidence and concentration running towards the pit with the pole in his hand? As you got closer and closer to the crossbar, it kept growing visually to astonishing heights. On the school bus rides to away meets, you wanted to sit with guys like Joe. You didn't want to sit with the shot putters because they didn't leave any room on the bench!