THE WALL OF FACES

Bob, I was one of your nextdoor neighbors in Orchard Park, NY. You and your family were our very best friends from the time my parents moved into their house (which is still my home) almost until the time that your family moved elsewhere. Though there were some differences between our families -- as their often are between neighbors -- I remember you and your folks fondly, as my friends. We were terribly shocked and saddened to hear of your passing. If any of your family members are reading this, I want them to know how much we admired you for your service to our country. May you rest in peace!

CAPT Robert B. Beale was a USMC jet pilot assigned to Marine Attack Squadron 214 (VMA-214), Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing (1st MAG), out of Chu Lai, RVN. On March 17, 1967, CAPT Beale was flying a A-4C Skyhawk (#148585) on a mission over water approximately 5 miles off Tam Ky. While attacking a sampan his aircraft was hit by automatic weapons fire. Beale was killed when his Skyhawk impacted the water. His remains were recovered. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and a4skyhawk.info]

DEAR CAPTAIN BEALE,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AS A LIGHT ATTACK JET PILOT. SEMPER FI. IT IS STILL THE CHRISTMAS SEASON.AND WE ARE THANKFUL FOR YOU. IT IS NEW YEAR, WHICH MAKES IT FAR TOO LONG FOR YOU TO HAVE BEEN GONE. WATCH OVER THE U.S.A., IT STILL NEEDS YOUR COURAGE.. GOD BLESS YOU. MAY THE SAINTS AND ANGELS BE AT YOUR SIDE. REST IN PEACE.

Dear Captain Beale:

My father, Rick Hemmingway, was your CO with the Black Sheep in Chu Lai. Know he spoke of you and that day. He passed last week, 21 May 2014, and now flies with you again.

I have worn your KIA bracelet for many, many years and keep a rubbing of your name on the Wall in a special place. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice you made for my family. I still mourn for yours and their tragedy so young.

Nancy Hemmingway Watkins

Semper Fi Captain.