THE WALL OF FACES

Dear Lt Donald Matocha, Thank you for your service as an Infantry Officer. I researched you on the 16th anniversary of your identification. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Independence Day just passed. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

The Corps of Cadets and Texas A&M University
Salute: 2 LT. Donald J Matocha '67
“The Memorial for Vietnam Era”
“Corps Plaza Memorial”
College Station, Texas
For more information or adding information contact:
Sam Houston Sanders Corps of Cadets Center 1400 TAMU College Station, TX 77843-1400 (979) 862-2862 http://corps.tamu.edu/contact-us

I wore the POW/ MIA bracelet for this MARINE for years. Please someone help me return this to his family. Thank you and thank all the other members of our armed forces who gave their full measure of service.

Donald you and I were born on the same date 1-31-1945, we were both in Vietnam at the same time. I was in the Army, you the Marines. We are both Texans and grew up not to far from each other. I feel connected to you in many ways. I want you to know you will never be forgotten. William (Bill) Karp, Alpha Co. 3/21st, 196th LIB Americal Division, Vietnam 10/1967-10/1968, "Brothers in War"

The loss of Donald was the first remembrance I have of learning about patriotism and sacrifice. My mother was Marguerite Matocha of Smithville, so Donald was my second cousin. I remember spending many summers there visiting my Grannie, Theresa Matocha and Popo Alfred Matocha before his passing in '64.
Although I was only 7 years old when Don gave his life for his brothers and sisters, it opened the door to many conversations with my father, James M. Latta, also a former Marine who served as a Sgt. in Korea. He spoke to me of courage, sacrifice, selflessness, patriotism and integrity. All the qualities of Donald and my father.
We spent several years overseas in the late 60's and early 70's at a time when the opinions about this great country varied greatly. It was my early lessons which kept me grounded and mindful of the sacrifices given so that we may continue in our pursuit of happiness. Armed with these lessons and values has helped to make the difference in much of my life.
As a current officer at VFW 549 aux. and the owner of some restaurants in Tucson, AZ. I am proud to be able to give back in some efforts in assisting our veterans causes. We currently raise funds for the VFW charities, TVSV AZ. Stand Down, CVMA (Combat Vets Motorcycle Association) and VVA 106. We hold a monthly Bike Night and have organized a Poker Run to help raise funds for VVA 106 Jammin' for Vets fundraiser (formally Nam Jam). This run will be held on Saturday, April 5th 2014. We would be honored to hold this in memory of our fallen Brother Donald Matocha. may the Grace of God be with all of our fallen brothers and sisters and their families.

J. Brian :Latta
[email protected]