THE WALL OF FACES

Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to meet PFC Oden. But, I have heard stories and was fortunate enough to meet his brother Scott when I was 4 or 5 years old (I vaguely remember). My father, Gary Briggs, was close friends with Scott and always spoke very highly of Scott and Royal.

One of my favorite “dad memories” is the time we visited the wall in DC and seeing the tears in my dad’s eyes when he finally found ROYAL P ODEN. He didn’t say much, but he promptly grabbed some charcoal and paper to do a rubbing. That rubbing would soon be framed and displayed in his office for years.

Thank you for your service PFC Oden. You and all those that served with you in Vietnam have been mistreated and under appreciated by a lot, but not by all. RIP.

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.