THE WALL OF FACES

I often wonder what you would have done with your life if you had lived past Vietnam. I remember when you were home on that emergency leave...enjoyed a few drinks together and then you were hone. Loved you.

Dear SGT Robert Dean Besch, 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

Rest in Peace and Honor.

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 Robert.

Robert Dean Besch was born November 5, 1949 and his home of record was Thief River Falls, Minnesota.

He was a 1968 graduate of Lincoln High School and on February 25, 1969 he entered the United States Army. In October of that year he was given emergency leave, to serve as escort for his friend Nicolas Lannoye, who was killed in action.

On April 9, 1970, he was killed. Robert was 20 years old.

He served with the 101st Airborne.

Robert was survived by his mother and step father Mr. and Mrs. Howard Sletten of Thief River Falls; his father Earl Robert Besch of Minneapolis, two sisters: Mavis and Marilyn and a brother PFC William Earl Besch, then stationed in Okinawa. Also surviving were two half-sisters and one half-brother: Yvonne, Michelle and Gene Besch.

Rest in Peace, Currahee!