THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. We should be forever thankful for the sacrifices of you and so many others to ensure the freedoms we so often take for granted.

Joel and I became good friends while serving together in Vietnam with the Americal Division. We talked often about sports and our lives back "in the World". A wonderful person who I will never forget. Rest well, my friend.

You left hell on earth and fly with the angels

Dear Sp5 Joel Leigh, Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. 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.

SP4 Joel M. Leigh was an infantryman serving with C Company, 1st Battalion, 20th Infantry, 11th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. On December 9, 1968, C Company was conducting a sweep and clear maneuver in their area of operation, approximately 8 miles southwest of Ha Thanh Airfield in Quang Ngai Province, RVN. At 1615 hours, they engaged a Viet Cong soldier wearing black pajamas which attempted to evade by crossing the Song Tra Khuc River. The VC was shot and killed. SP4 Leigh voluntarily entered the river to confirm the kill. Leigh was considered an excellent swimmer, however, the very swift moving river carried him away and he was drowned. Observers believe a swift undercurrent caught him or he suffered cramps. His body was later recovered. The VC was also recovered; he was approximately 20 years-old and was carrying a pack with a small amount of rice and had no weapon. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and 1-20infantry.org]