THE WALL OF FACES

My father, Captain Walter Wisniewski served with James. He remembers him fondly. His death hit him hard as James was his first friend KIA after my father had returned home from Vietnam. If any of the family should happen to see this, my dad would like to get in touch with you. James was a true hero who will always be remembered.
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Semper Fi

Dear Lt James Opsahl, Thank you for your service as an HMH Helicopter Pilot. I researched you on your 52nd anniversary, sad. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. 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.

As a Resident of Jims hometown I remember very distinctly that there had been a very heavy snow. So much so that my Dad, brother, and I were on the roof shoveling snow off to relieve the massive weight. We were discussing the terrible news. Jim had lived only a few houses away. A short time later my much younger brother appeared in the yard with a cross he had made with some tree branches. He stuck the cross in the snow and looked up at us and said, “this means I’m proud of him”. We all had tears running down our cheeks. Thanks for your service Jim. We are still proud of you!

First Lieutenant James Dean Opsahl, Served with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 362 (HMM-362), Marine Aircraft Group 15 (MAG-15), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

Dear 1LT James Dean Opsahl, 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