THE WALL OF FACES

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.

Staff Sergeant Raymond Joseph Bechard, Served with Company A, 3rd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

DEAR STAFF SERGEANT BECHARD,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AS AN INDIRECT FIRE INFANTRYMAN. I WAS BORN ON YOUR BIRTHDAY - SIGH. .IT IS THE EPIPHANY. 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.

My husband John and I spent many fun hours with you both!! So sorry we lost you! Rest In Peace brave warrior!

Judith (Higginbotham) Archer
Towson, Maryland

Thank you Staff Sergeant Bechard for your devotion, leadership, and courage under fire.