THE WALL OF FACES

Never forgotten.

HOOAH

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.

I am your cousin, but 17 yrs. younger than you, so I don't remember much about you. I remember your military funeral in Prince George. I was 11. I didn't understand as well then, but two years later we moved to California and witnessed the end of the Vietnam War while there. This month (9/19) my 16 yr. old granddaughter and her mother did a pencil rubbing of your name for me in Washington DC. Thank you for your sacrifice in making our country what it is for my children and grandchildren.

Sergeant Alvin Kenneth Bencher, Served with Company A, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, United States Army Vietnam.

I also want to thank Sheila for following up with your family.