THE WALL OF FACES

Dear PFC Walter Paul Bem, 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

Silver Star

Awarded posthumously for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Walter P. Bem (MCSN: 2490068), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company B, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 30 April 1969, Company B was conducting a search and destroy operation near the Vu Gia River in Quang Nam Province when the Marines came under a heavy volume of small arms and automatic weapons fire from a large enemy force and sustained numerous casualties. Alertly observing a wounded man lying in an open area dangerously exposed to the intense enemy fire, Private First Class Bem unhesitatingly commenced maneuvering across the fire-swept terrain to assist his injured comrade and was seriously wounded. Despite his painful injury, he steadfastly refused to seek cover, and while continuing to advance, was wounded twice more. Disregarding his own safety, and determined to reach his comrade, he fearlessly continued maneuvering forward through the intense enemy fire, but upon reaching the side of the casualty, Private First Class Bem succumbed to his wounds. By his courage, resolute determination and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Bem inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Action Date: 30-Apr-69

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Private First Class

Company: Company B

Battalion: 1st Battalion

Regiment: 7th Marines

Division: 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Walter is buried at St Bernards Cemetery, Indiana, PA. SS PH

Walter, 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 and thank you.

PRIVATE FIRST CLASS
WALTER PAUL BEM
Service Number 2490068

was a posthumous recipient of the

~~~~~ SILVER STAR ~~~~~

~~~~~ SEMPER FIDELIS ~~~~~

YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN
NOR SHALL YOU EVER BE