THE WALL OF FACES

During a night strike on an enemy position 10 miles southwest of Da Nang, two Phantoms collided in mid-air and crashed, killing the four airmen involved. F-4E 67-0312 366 TFW, USAF, Da Nang Capt David Leroy Ramsey (KIA) Maj Phillip Rogerson Wellons (KIA) F-4E 67-0257 366 TFW, USAF, Da Nang Capt James Watson Wood (KIA) Capt Stephen Bernard Melnick (KIA)

Captain Steven Bernard Melnick, Served with the 4th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 366th Tactical Fighter Wing, 7th Air Force.

Dear Captain Steven Bernard Melnick, 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, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter

Steven is buried at USAF Academy Cemetery, Colorado Springs, El Paso County,CO.

If I should die, and leave you herev awhile, be not like others, sore undone, who keep long vigils by the silent dust, and weep...for MY sake, turn again to life, and smile...Nerving hty heart, and trembling hand to do something to comfort other hearts than thine...Complete these dear, unfinished tasks of mine...and I, perchance, may therein comfort you.