THE WALL OF FACES

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

Taken from the Deerfield Villager (Deerfield, IL), March 3, 1969, courtesy of Anne Jamieson, Deerfield Public Library, Deerfield, IL.

Taken from the Chicago Tribune (Chicago, IL), February 27, 1969, courtesy of Dr. Daniel Hubbard. In the Tribune article, Olson’s death is erroneously reported as the result of hostile action. Olson died in a drowning incident on February 2, 1969, after a night of heavy drinking with other 170th members at the NCO club when they decided to do some swimming at the compound pool at Camp Holloway in Pleiku, RVN.

SP5 Allen E. Olson was a Food Service Specialist serving with the 170th Assault Helicopter Company based at Camp Holloway, a U.S. Army base near Pleiku in Pleiku Province, RVN. Camp Holloway had a pool with a very tall fence located in the old compound area near the officer’s quarters. On February 2, 1969, Olson drowned at the base. His death reportedly came after a night of heavy drinking with other 170th members at the NCO club when they decided to do some swimming. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and 170th Assault Helicopter Company at facebook.com]

Dear Sp5 Allen Olson, Thank you for your service as a Food Service Specialist. Yesterday was your 52nd anniversary, sad. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Presidents’, and Valentine’s Days just passed, and Lent has begun. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.