THE WALL OF FACES

Hello to the family of Leonard J. Belt. I was in WDC and asked our driver to stop so I could quickly see the Vietnam War Memorial.
I had about 10 minutes to see the wall and was immediately overcome with the realness of the incredibly brave men and women and their families who sacrificed everything for our country. This is the only picture I took and then I looked up Leonard’s name on the internet so I could contact you and thank you and tell you I am sorry. I’m sure the pain will never go away but Leonard was a hero and is with God. God bless all of you!

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.

Sergeant Leonard Jonathen Bell, Served with Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

First and foremost I would like to say thank you for your service to this country. You're a true hero. I'm a sergeant in the Army and I'm currently doing a class assignment on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. I had the honor to interview someone who is related to you, she is your cousin's daughter (from your mom's side). Although she has never met you, she went with her husband and in-laws to visit the wall and finally found your name. You're not forgotten. I would like to say from the bottom of my heart, thank you for your selflessness. I hope to be half the soldier you are. Once a soldier, always a soldier!

You were one of the brave that answered the call. You honored us by your service and sacrifice. We now honor you each time we stand and sing the words “THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE”. Rest in Peace and Honor Leonard.