THE WALL OF FACES

War drew us from our homeland
In the sunlit springtime of our youth.
Those who did not come back alive remain
in perpetual springtime -- forever young --
And a part of them is with us always.

Eddie A. Martinez Jr. was a Light-Wheel Vehicle Mechanic serving with B Battery, 29th Artillery, I Field Force, U.S. Army Republic of Vietnam. The mission of 29th Artillery was direct artillery support to the maneuver elements of the 4th Infantry Division. They also reinforced the fires of other artillery units in their area of operation. Inherent in the mission was the Battalion's responsibility to provide ground transportation. Martinez’ role was to perform maintenance, repair, and recovery operations on wheeled vehicles and select armored vehicles. At 10:00 AM on February 10, 1969, he died in Binh Dinh Province, RVN, of a reported self-inflicted gunshot wound to the chest. Martinez was dead on arrival to the 17th Field Hospital at Camp Radcliffe at An Khe. He was 20 years old. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

Dear PFC Eddie Martinez, Thank you for your service as a Light Wheel Vehicle Mechanic. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Independence Day is this weekend. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

Growing up together there was you, Tommy, Janie, Rick, and myself Kathy. All summer long we played in the river bottom of springer where grandma and grandpa lived. You and Rick were like brothers. When both of you joined the army there was so much pride. Rick was killed in Vietnam on March 2nd 1968 and it devastated you. You did your tour of duty and were due to come home. We were shocked to learn of your death. My cousin we miss you and know you and Rick are still together. What comfort. Janie, Tommy and myself are still here waiting till we reunite. Love you always my cousin and thank you for all you gave for your country.

Dear PFC Eddie Anthony Martinez 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