THE WALL OF FACES

There is a place
Not far from here
Where spirits walk
And heroes live
And honor still resides.

It is a wall
With names inscribed
Of those who served
When they were asked...
The brothers of my youth.

I go there still
To walk and think
About my life,
And what I've done since
And things that might have been.

There is a debt
I can't repay
Too many lives were spent.
And one man's life cannot suffice
To make their deaths worthwhile.

But there is hope
In the memory
Of those we leave behind
Who know the price that freedom brings
Who can carry on in kind.

I send you now
To touch a name
So the vision can be passed
Remember there is honor still
It is for you to see it lasts.

They are not dead
And have a wish
As all old soldiers do
The reflection you see before you now
Is their wish to live in you.

Memorial Day weekend, 2013: I was stationed with Don at Camp Pendleton from (roughly) Summer 1966 thru May 1967. Don coached our company basketball team, on which I played, which won the battalion championship, and I have a nice photo of the team receiving the trophy from the battalion commander. Don was a fine coach and a good Marine, and was respected by all who interacted with him. Our company was notified of Don's death before I left Pendleton, and members of our unit were allowed to attend his funeral in Oceanside (CA). We were all so sad at this loss of a good man. To this day I often reflect on my relationships with those whose lives were lost in Vietnam, and as with Don I will never forget them or their sacrifice and service. Don, you are NOT forgotten. Semper Fi, my brother.

Dear Sgt Don Perdue, Thank you for your service as a Metal Worker. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. It is the Easter season. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

Sergeant Don Melvin Perdue, Served with Support Company, 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

Semper Fidelis, Sergeant.