THE WALL OF FACES

Dear Capt. Michael O'Donnell, sir:

I have seen several of your poems and writings quoted extensively across this site and I am in awe of what you have left behind for us to reflect on. You were an amazingly talented young man and were taken from us much too early. We can't possibly thank you enough for your sacrifice for our great country.

"If you are able, save for them a place inside of you...and save one backward glance when you are leaving for the places they can no longer go...Be not ashamed to say you loved them...Take what they have left and what they have taught you with their dying and keep it with your own...And in that time when men decide and feel safe to call the war insane, take one moment to embrace those gentle heroes you left behind..."

I was on my Washington DC field trip and I saw the picture frame with the poem inside. It was really heartening and I nearly cried. I hope his entire family is doing well, and that he has found his place with God.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. I am heartened you returned home after the passage of so many years though I wish it had been under very different circumstances. May you rest in eternal peace.

Glad you are finally home—God keep you safe in the palm of His hand!

Major O’Donnell , You and your exceptional and heroic service in Vietnam nor your very impactful words about those gentle heroes who fell in Vietnam will always be remembered . God bless you and your family .
With great respect , your Vietnam brothers .