THE WALL OF FACES

Dear SP4 Dickie Lynn Leach, 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

I was an eye witness to the death of Capt. Gary L. Higbee, WO1 Richard Ovaitt, SP5 Charles Bartlett and SP4 Dickie Leach on August 8, 1968; UH-1C tail number 66-15227. I was a door gunner in the other Charlie model in the light fire team. We were actully going out to cover (escort) a slick which was sent in to pick up a captured NVA Lt.. The RPG hit the aircraft in the fuel cell and the aircraft went upside down, it went below the trees and I do not know if it impacted in that position. We were orbiting on the west side of the A Shau Valley. Reported by Scott DeArman, door gunner with the 'Black Angels,' 'D' Co. 101st AHB.; AW 101st ABN DIV [Taken from vhpa.org]

Dickie, if only I could have met you. Your brother, Mel, is my grandfather and I love you both. We have a long military history, and I am carrying on the legacy. I hope to see you at the end.

Dickie, I do not know you but yesterday I had the honor to read your name at the wall to honor your supreme sacrifice.

Dickie, Although we never met, I just want you to know you are not forgotten. You gave the ultimate sacrifice, your life for what you believed in. Sleep well my friend, and thank you for protecting the freedoms we enjoy today.