THE WALL OF FACES

My grandfather John Ballard was with you in B co. 2/5 of the 1st cavalry division. He served 2 combat tours. He remembers that you only had about 2 weeks left until you could go home, they said you could leave early but you chose to stay with your men. My grandpa had jungle rot and was forced to stay in the rear, he walked point so someone replaced him. They walked through some fire ants and diverted course, straight into an ambush. You were hit just above the lip by a bullet. God bless you sir and any vets who served alongside you. If anyone has more information on my grandpa or this story please contact my email above.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from James Pittman is poignant and reflects his admiration and respect for you. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever….

As a Lieutenant. at Cat La: a Transportation Corps base on the Dong Ngai River, Joe had many onerous assignments. One was wrangling the laundresses and cleaning ladies, Restaurant workers, etc. It was worth a good laugh to watch him deal with the constant headaches, while he remained unflappable. At night we'd migrate to Joe's room which was shared by 3 other officers, some of who had the finest music setup in town. There was always a rousing chorus of the Animals singing "We gotta get outta this place" and CCR with "Fortunate Son". He got a letter from his young wife every day and sent one off himself. I returned to the states in August, I knew he was getting short, and I was devastated to learn that he had transferred to a combat infantry unit and was killed with days to go before DEROS. Here was a loss for us all to mourn.

Lieutenant Joseph Byron Poe was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, with Combat Distinguishing Device (V), for his gallantry in action. He was also awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Merit for his sustained meritorious service. He served as an Infantry Unit Commander and was assigned to B CO, 2ND BN, 5TH CAVALRY, 1ST CAV DIV.
See http://www.coffeltdatabase.org/detreq2.php

Sir,
I will always remember your command in Cat Lai. I serve under your command and I am remembering you today, Memorial Day 2021, as I do each Memorial Day. Rest In Peace Sir.