THE WALL OF FACES

"The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotions and spends himself in a great worthy cause; who at the best, knows in the end triumph of high achievement and, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while caring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold, timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat." Theodore Roosevelt

Carl, our nation remembered you and honored your sacrifice at our Memorial Day observances this past Monday, May 30th. The Wall That Heals, the replica of the Memorial in Washington, has been set up in Norwalk, Connecticut, these past four days, Thursday through Sunday. Yesterday morning my wife Nancy and I went there and I touched your name and prayed that your family and friends might find comfort in knowing that you always are remembered by your Marine Brothers who were honored to serve with you. Carl, it was an honor for me to go through training with you (Platoon 1022 at P.I. and AIT at Camp Geiger) and to serve in Vietnam, although we were assigned to different Battalions in the 1st Marines Regiment. I remember and honor you today, my Brother.

Dear PFC Carl Packard, Thank you for your service as an Antitank Assaultman. The 52nd anniversary of the start of your tour is in 4 days. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Lent has begun, and it is the end of winter. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

Praying for your family and friends, Carl, and I am honored to have served with you.

Semper Fi, Carl, you are never forgotten. I am praying for your family and friends. It was an honor to serve with you.