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.

My beautiful Chipper - miss you every day.

LCPL Louis Gene Petrone Jr. is buried in Section 12, Plot 23A of the Holy Rood Cemetery in Morristown, NJ.

Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Semper Fi, Marine

Dear Lcpl Louis Petrone, Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. Your 76th birthday is in 3 days, happy birthday. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. The 46th anniversary of the fall of Saigon just passed, and it is still sad. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

Lance Corporal Louis Gene Petrone Jr., Served with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.