THE WALL OF FACES

CAPT Wesley R. Phenegar Jr. was a USMC jet pilot assigned to Headquarters and Maintenance Squadron 12 (H&MS-12), Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing (1st MAW). On August 13, 1967, CAPT Phenegar was piloting a A-4E Skyhawk jet on a mission 25 miles north of Chu Lai, RVN. Phenegar and his wingman reached the target area when Phenegar’s Skyhawk developed engine troubles and both aircraft headed back to Chu Lai. Phenegar began an emergency approach to the airstrip when he radioed the tower that his engine quit and he would be unable to make the runway. Instead of ejecting and saving himself, Phenegar wheeled his plane out towards the coast in an attempt to ditch into the sea. As he approached the coast, Phenegar realized he didn’t have enough altitude to make it. Gliding over one of the several villages along the coastline, he guided his plane away from the village and crashed. Had Phenegar ejected at that time, the aircraft could have killed a number of Vietnamese civilians who were unaware of the danger until a few seconds before the crash. Phenehar was killed on impact. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “Marine Jet Pilot Gives Life for Buddies, Viets.” Pacific Stars & Stripes, September 11, 1967]

I have only heard stories of you, my fathers cousin. I have followed in the foot steps of several other family members including yourself, and served in the Iraq War. I have visited your name in the wall and take great pride in carrying the soldier bloodline.

Semper Fi Captain.

Dear Captain Wesley Robert Phenegar Jr, 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