THE WALL OF FACES

Gary. I remember you sitting on the jeep at Mai Loc's bulldozed runway enjoying the dawn 55 years ago this morning shortly before you died. And in the trenches at Khe Sanh under siege several months before that. And on area patrols and night ambushes we did together. Your tragic death is seared into your friend's memories. You were a good man, Gary. Your death was a profound loss to Hatchet Force El Dorado and all of us who served with you. I think of you often and always on the anniversary of your death. Rest in peace, my friend.

Say not in grief he is no more, but live in thankfulness that he was.

Dear Gary,
Hi, I am a junior at Saint Joseph Notre Dame High School in Alameda. My history class is learning about the vietnam war and about the soldiers that participated in the war, you happen to be one of
them from my hometown. I admire the courage and bravery you displayed by serving your country. You also have the same birthday as my sister so you will always be remembered.

My dearest Gary - who would have guessed when you said you wanted to jump out of airplanes we would be here!
I will love you forever!

Dear Sp5 Gary Matson, Thank you for your service as a Special Forces Qualified Combat Engineer. 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.