THE WALL OF FACES

I brought my Navy Junior ROTC Cadets to visit David's name on the Vietnam Memorial Wall. David was a childhood friend, neighbor, and fellow football player. I am honored to remember his sacrifice. He left behind a beautiful girlfriend, Betty Smith, who never recovered from the loss. Part of the reason I joined the Navy and served 22 years was because of the sacrifice of David and young men like him. I bring my Cadets by the Wall when we take trips to Washington, DC, about every three years. I try to educate them that the price of freedom is paid forward by David to them. Many of my Cadets want to serve their country, and I want them to understand the price of that service can be the ultimate - the last full measure of service.

Semper Fi, Marine.

David is buried at Kingston Memorial Gardens, Kingston, TN. PH

David, Although we never met, I just want you to know you are not forgotten. You gave the ultimate sacrifice, your life for what you believed in. Sleep well my friend, and thank you for protecting the freedoms we have today.

FOREVER REMEMBERED

Slip off that pack. Set it down by the crooked trail. Drop your steel pot alongside. Shed those magazine-ladened bandoliers away from your sweat-soaked shirt. Lay that silent weapon down and step out of the heat. Feel the soothing cool breeze right down to your soul....and rest forever in the shade of our love, brother.



From your "Band of Vietnam Brothers"