THE WALL OF FACES

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. The Bible tells us that greatest love one can have is caring about others more than themselves. My children whom Calvin never met are in a free country with so many freedoms because of those that have sacrificed so much. I want Calvin's family to know that my heart is sadened for your loss. I know how beloved Calvin was and is through his brother Eric. I can see even 47 years later how deep the loss is. I so appreciate Calvin and know without a doubt his reward goes far behind what man can give. One day you will see him again and can find peace in that. His sacrifice, your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Dear CPL Calvin Jerome Layton, 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

It has been 41 years and we still miss you. You are our hero and and every Memorial Day serve as a reminder that you made the supreme sacrifice for your country. Your brothers and sister: Delores, Dorothy, Carolyn, Edward, Isiah, Larry, Eric, Brenda, Debbie, Derrick and Yolanda.

FOREVER REMEMBERED

"If you are able, save for them a place inside of you....and save one backward glance when you are leaving for the places they can no longer go.....Be not ashamed to say you loved them....
Take what they have left and what they have taught you with their dying and keep it with your own....And in that time when men decide and feel safe to call the war insane, take one moment to embrace those gentle heroes you left behind...."

Quote from a letter home by Maj. Michael Davis O'Donnell
KIA 24 March 1970. Distinguished Flying Cross: Shot down and Killed while attempting to rescue 8 fellow soldiers surrounded by attacking enemy forces.

We Nam Brothers pause to give a backward glance, and post this remembrance to you, one of the gentle heroes lost to the War in Vietnam:

Slip off that pack. Set it down by the crooked trail. Drop your steel pot alongside. Shed those magazine-ladened bandoliers away from your sweat-soaked shirt. Lay that silent weapon down and step out of the heat. Feel the soothing cool breeze right down to your soul ... and rest forever in the shade of our love, brother.

From your Nam-Band-Of-Brothers

Calvin,
As a part of the Gridley High School posting project in Gridley Illinois, we are posting remembrances to honor all the American Heroes who gave their lives fighting for our country and what it stands for. No matter how hard we try, we can never repay you for this selfless act of service, but we are truly grateful. You will be remembered throughout history as an American Hero; courageous, brave, and free. Thank you! God Bless you and your loved ones!
Sincerely,
Kaleigh Schlipf