THE WALL OF FACES

I am a nurse who worked at the Veterans Hospital in Long Beach, California in 1973. That's where I got the pow/mia bracelet of Russell Martin. I have thought about him over the years each veterans day. The virtual wall gave me the privilege of being contacted by his daughter. I will never forget.

If I should die, and leave you here awhile, be not like others,l sore undone, who keep long vigils by the silent dust, and weep...for MY sake, turn again to life, and smile...Nerving thy heart, and trembling hand to do something to comfort other hearts than thine...Complete these dear, unfinished tasks of mine...and I, perchance, may therein comfort you.

"If you are able, save for them a place inside of you and save one backward glance when you are
leaving for the place they can no longer go...And in that time when men decide and feel safe to call
the war insane, take one moment to embrace those gentle heroes you left behind."

Remembrance from TSGT John Navish USAF, Retired

I remember going to the Martin home as a friend of his sister, Kay, as well as a 4-H member. His mother was a leader and I spent much time there as well as many other 4-H activies and school connections. I remember when my brother, Gary, came back from Sigon and was asked to speak to the family. It was a very difficult task for him to do but was glad to do it as he knew Russell Dean would have done the same for his own parents if the rolls were reversed. I can't even think how hard it must be to have a family member never be found and to always be a MIA. It is a burden that no one should have to bear but when evil is alive and well that is what happens. My prayer has always been for God to give great comfort to those whose love has never been MIA and continue to hold their lost family member close to their hearts and look forward to the life after death where they can be reunited. Love and Prayers for those who still care! Linda Harris Hayes