THE WALL OF FACES

I was a kid growing up in the same town as Richard. He was a lot older. He was one of the sports heroes at our school from jr. high to his graduation. Athletes at our school in those days were star humans as well. If grades were bad or they misbehaved they didn't play. Richard treated all of the kids like we were special. He would stop and look you in the eye when you talked to him especially after games when we would swarm him.
I just never got to tell you Richard what you meant to me. I have grieved you since I heard in 1969 that we had lost you. I loved you because of your remarkable kindness.

Following my Vietnam service I returned to Mississippi and soon thereafter relocated to Meridian and have lived here since 1973. You fellows from Lauderdale County probably would not recognize the places and the people you left behind – things have changed drastically since you have been gone. News of your deaths brought much heartbreak and many tears to your loved ones and friends. After all these years we still remember the price you paid for your country and our freedoms. As another Memorial Day ceremony unfolds at the county courthouse, each of your 28 names will be read. In remembrance of your sacrifice, friends and family members will come forward to place a Buddy Poppy at the base of the granite wall honoring all the county’s losses since World War I. The patriotism that you felt as you left Lauderdale County for the war in Vietnam is still alive and well in your hometowns and communities. Many of you died protecting one another, but you all served so that we could keep the things we love the most – God, country and family. By remaining true to these principles, we honor your sacrifices.

Van “Mac” McCarty
Meridian, MS
USMC Vietnam Veteran
1968-69, 1970-71

Dear SGT Richard Earl May, 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, Sir

Curt Carter

My husband is Gene May. He and Richard are 2nd or 3rd cousins I believe. Gene was in Vietnam when Richard was killed. Gene was in the navy. We visited Richards grave periodically. Gene is from Collinsville also.

Richard is buried at Pine Grove Cemetery, Collinsville,MS. BSM PH