THE WALL OF FACES

In 1955, '56 and '57 (John's 7th and 8th grades) he was the star player and leading scorer on our highly rated Sacred Heart School basketball team in Coronado, California.

After school on the outside court, it seemed like hours on end that John and I played one-on-one. And sometimes I would win, if he let me.

John was the most popular boy in his class. Top-notch student, respected by all his classmates, by the beautiful Benedictine nuns (Order of Saint Benedict) who taught us well and by our legendary Irish pastor, Monsignor Purcell.

For the past 60-plus years, whenever I have thought about those Fabulous Fifties at Sacred Heart Catholic Church and School, I have included my special memories of John McCormick.

Miss You, My Friend. Always.

- Roy B. Quady in Minnesota
Sacred Heart School Class of 1958

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 sun 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.

As long as you are remembered you will always be with us....

Dear Ens John McCormick, Thank you for your service as an Unrestricted Line Officer, Surface Warfare. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Yesterday was the 56th anniversary of the Gulf of Tonkin Incident. Time passes quickly, but our world needs help. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

John, you left us far too soon - you missed my wedding (you would have been best man) and missed 2 Villanova National championships. Our 3 year at 'Nova together, you were the closest thing to a real brother I ever had.

Dear ENS John W McCormick Jr, 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, Sir

Curt Carter