THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. While all deaths in Vietnam are tragic that you died just one week after your 24th birthday is especially so. May you rest in eternal peace.

John and I grew up in neighboring small towns in south-central Illinois, less than 10 miles apart. However, we didn’t meet until college (Univ of Illinois) where we eventually became roommates. As graduation neared, the prospect of being drafted and sent to Vietnam was on all our minds and John decided that he wanted to become a Marine officer. He asked me to write a recommendation for him.

I was still in basic training (Army) when John died and I don’t remember when I first heard of his death. John was an only child and his death was devastating for his parents. I still have the last letter that John sent (to my parents) before he was killed. Dated 17 April 1969, he thanks my parents for their Easter card and notes two significant recent events in his life: His promotion to 1LT on April 1 and his 24th birthday on April 15. He was killed one week after his birthday.

Dear Lt Meadow Olson, Thank you for your service as a Basic Infantry Officer. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Today is Washington’s birthday, 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.

On April 22, 1969, a U.S. Marines CH-46D helicopter (#154840), YR-50, from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161 (HMM 161), was working a troop lift for the 2nd ARVN Division in Quang Tri Province, RVN. YR-50 was the first aircraft into the assault zone, approximately 16 miles northwest of Quang Tri Combat Base, when it was destroyed by a command-detonated mine. The blast caused the helicopter to explode and burn. Two crewmen, gunners LCPL William H. Bazemore and LCPL Thomas W. Lenz, and one passenger, 1LT Meaddow J. Olson, were killed in the incident. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and popasmoke.com]

Dear 1LT Meaddow John Olson, 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, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter