THE WALL OF FACES

PCFs 36, and 88 endure another firefight in Berniques Creek north of Ha Tien. BM2 Steve Luke in the peak tank on the M-60 machine gun as a relief crewman is killed in action. He had volunteered to go with the 36 boat crew to An Thoi, and he had cheated death less than two weeks earlier on a Bo De run on November 24th.

From "This is Latch" by Wey Symmes, page 245

Dear BM2 Steve Ralph Luke, 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

Steve is buried at East lawn Memorial Hills Cemetery in Provo, UT.

Although we never met personally, I want to thank you Steve Ralph Luke, for your courageous and valiant service, your years of faithfully contributing, and your most holy sacrifice given to this great country of ours!

Your Spirit is alive--and strong, therefore Boats, you shall never be forgotten, nor has your death been in vain!

Again, thank you BM2 Steve Ralph Luke, for a job well done!

FAIR WINDS, AND ETERNAL PEACE MY FRIEND

For a Fallen brother in arms, may the seas be calm and the winds be fair.