THE WALL OF FACES

Royal Preston Oden was a proud Marine killed in action in the Viet Nam war on June 18, 1969, at the age of 19. He was in the Kit Carson Scouts, an elite unit with an over 85% casualty rate. He knew very well what he was getting into but he never flinched, never wavered. I cannot begin to describe what his loss did to our family, words fail me. People say that time heals all wounds but that is a hurtful lie. As time goes by I feel his loss more and more, not less and less. At the age of 70 I know now all the wonderful things in life he never had a chance to experience or enjoy, and that knowledge is eating me alive. Please, if you are ever in Washington, DC, go see his name on the Viet Nam War memorial wall and think grateful thoughts for his sacrifice. And I thank all of America's veterans. Scott Oden

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