THE WALL OF FACES

Dear PFC Michael Lawson, Thank you for your service as an Infantry Direct Fire Crewman with the 1st Cavalry. Today is your 53rd anniversary, sad. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Today is the 1st full day of spring. Happy Spring! 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.

My Grandparents, Al and Frances Burgoyne were best friends of your parents Kay and Marv. My Mom (Sharon) and her sister (Carol) knew you. I know about you because my Grandma shared your story with me when I was young. I teach in Korea at a US Army high school and know how soldiers like you risk their lives for ours every day. I am sad that you lost your life for such a risk. I know that it broke everyone's heart and that people still remember you! Never Forgotten <3

Private First Class Michael Lester Lawson, Served with Company D, 1st Battalion, 8th Calvary Regiment, 1st Calvary Division.

I am also one of the thirty cousins left behind. I cannot improve on what my cousin Bobbi so eloquently wrote. I feel as she does. I, too, was nearly seven years old, so my actual memories are few. I vividly remember riding on your shoulders and you were so tall, I had to duck so far to go through doorways. A simple, but loving childhood memory. But I will never forget your bravery and your service to our country. Thank you and bless you!

Army Pfc. Michael L. Lawson

On March 20, 1967 Mike and six other infantrymen from his company lost their lives in an assault operation near the village of Bong Son, South Vietnam. Speaking with his commanding officer nearly thirty years later, recounting that day, the Jumping Mustangs (as they were known), had been dropped by helicopter near the vicinity of Bong Son in search of Vietcong who were reportedly in the area. As the company neared the village, enemy fire opened from three sides in what is known as a horseshoe ambush. Pinned down and unable to move on return fire; Mike’s company was forced to remain in that position for a number of hours. Some time after enemy fire had ceased, the company was able to continue the operation and tend to the dead and wounded. March 20, 1967 was one of the worst losses sustained by the First Air Calvary in the Vietnam campaign. Mike was twenty years of age and had eighty-eight days left to his one year mark in tour of combat. Mike was a much loved and respected son, brother, and friend to those who knew him.