THE WALL OF FACES

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.

Dear Captain Donald Mattaro , Thank you for your service as a Tank Unit Commander with the 1st Cavalry. The 53rd anniversary of the start of your tour is soon. 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.

Don was my college roommate at the Virginia Military Institute - my "Brother Rat" as we called our classmates. I will never forget him. Rest with the Angels, BR!

Originally buried at Holy Sepulchre, Rochester, NY. Reinterred at Arlington National Cemetery 10 May 1984. Ref. Coffelt Database.

Captain Donald James Mattaro Jr., Served with B Troop, 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, Americal Division, United States Army Vietnam.