THE WALL OF FACES

Donnie, it’s been over 57 years since you passed away. Vietnam is a blur to many and an unknown to generations after ours. We went to West Miami Jr High together and you were every girls heartthrob. You left this world far to young. I have been to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in D.C. I just found the “rubbing” of your name on the wall that I made there so many years ago. You have always been remembered for your sacrifice and those that knew you carry your memory with them.

We were in the same class in Junior High at West Miami. Donnie was my "boy friend" in 8th grade. So long ago but some people you just never forget.

Donny and I were in junior high school together at West Miami Jr high school. He joined the Marine Corps and I joined the Army and we both served in Nam, Donny served near the DMZ and me in the Central Highlands in the Ia Drang Valley and Dak To.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrances from your friends attest to their love and respect for you. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us...

Donnie so many years have passed since West Miami Junior High School and we were young guys struggling to find our way in life. I remember the day when coach Silva at West Miami Jr High had the class knocking out push ups and when everyone else had quit, but you and I continued until coach Silva gave up because he realized we would never quit. That's how I have remembered you my entire life, a guy who wouldn't quit. Our lives followed a similar path, you into the Corps and me into the Army Rangers. We both served in Vietnam, you near the DMZ and me in the Central Highlands as a LRRP. The years have passed, but even after junior high which seems like a hundred years ago, combat in Indochina, you Donnie, were a great and honorable person. Sua Sponte my friend and brother in arms, I will see you on the high ground.