THE WALL OF FACES

You will forever remain in our hearts and prayers

Dear Pvt Asa Martin, Thank you for your service as a Light Vehicle Driver. The 43rd anniversary of your identified just passed, welcome home. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Father’s Day just passed, and it’s summer. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

PVT Asa Martin Jr. was a Light Vehicle Driver serving with B Company, 25th Supply & Transportation Battalion, 25th Infantry Division. On February 2, 1969, PVT Martin was murdered by another U.S. serviceman, SSG Bernardo Rodriguez Jr., after a barracks dispute in Binh Duong Province, RVN, ended in gunfire. At Rodriguez’ trial for murder, the defense stated there was an exchange of words between Rodriguez, Martin, and one of Martin’s companions. Threats were allegedly made by Martin, and Rodriguez armed himself with an M16 rifle. He confronted Martin outside a company orderly room and reportedly fired at him two or three times. Martin fell, and Rodriguez fired three more rounds into him. At the tribunal, Rodriguez plead guilty to unpremeditated murder and was sentenced to 10 years at hard labor. The prosecution was seeking a life sentence. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “Chicago Mother Watches as GI Son’s Slayer Gets 10 Years.” Chicago Tribune, May 11, 1969]

I have always loved you and I am so sorry you had to leave this life in such a tragic way. You will never be forgotten. CSM Maneasseaha Bartimus, Uncle Harold Martin's only daughter/child.

Dear PVT Asa Martin Jr, 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