THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from your high school friend Richard Goutal is touching and reflects his admiration and respect for you. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us….

Dear Ssgt Richard Olson, Thank you for your service as an Armor Reconnaissance Specialist with the 1st Cavalry. Tomorrow is your 52nd anniversary, sad. 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.

He came to see us before that tour. He loved being in the Army. When I was young I would go to the beach with him in Cotuit. He was always nice to me bringing me thoughtful gifts when he visited. Had to belive its been 49 ys.

Richard Olson was a best friend in high school. He was a decent, quiet young man; patriotic; friendly. He was active in the school drama for four years, the speech competition in which he was on the school debate team, and the school newspaper. Since I moved to Barnstable during my last two years of school, I knew him only for those years. We worked on the newspaper together and had many long talks about religion, country, and future plans. I attended his funeral in 1969. Shortly thereafter, his mother gave me a chess set that Richard owned. I still have it today. My mother and Richard's mother remained friends for years after. He has always remained in my thoughts.

Dear SSGT Richard Emil Olson, sir,

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for the ultimate sacrifice that you 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. And please know that men and women like you have stepped forward to defend our country yet again, showing the same love for country and their fellow Americans that you did- you would be proud.

With respect, and the best salute that a civilian can muster for you.

Curt Carter