THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from your brother Scott is moving and reflects his eternal love for you. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us….

Dear PFC Royal Oden, Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. Your 71st birthday is soon, happy birthday. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Today is Valentine’s Day and tomorrow is Presidents’ Day. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

Private First Class Royal Preston Oden, Served with the Headquarters and Service Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

They went with songs to the battle, they were young,
Straight of limb, true of eye, steady and aglow.
They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted;
They fell with their faces to the foe.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

.....from "For the Fallen" by Robert Laurence Binyon

Dear PFC Royal Preston Oden, 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