THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. You died at 18 years of age. I am 74 and have lived a long and fulfilling life. It is tragic you never had that same opportunity. May you rest in eternal peace.

Dear Lcpl Larry Rainey, Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Independence Day just passed. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

On the remembrance of your 70th birthday, your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Forever 18.

"Greater love hath no man..."

Semper Fi, Marine.

Larry Stephen Rainey

Silver Star
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS
DURING Vietnam War
Service: Marine Corps
Rank: Private First Class
Battalion: 3d Battalion
Division: 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF
GENERAL ORDERS:

CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Larry Stephen Rainey (MCSN: 2494868), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company K, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 27 February 1969, Private First Class Rainey was occupying an ambush site near Tam Boi in Quang Tri Province when the Marines fired upon two North Vietnamese Army soldiers moving in the direction of the company's defensive perimeter and, after the initial burst of fire, found themselves facing a numerically superior hostile force well armed with satchel charges, automatic weapons, and rocket-propelled grenades. Seriously wounded in the ensuing exchange of fire, Private First Class Rainey observed that his team leader also was severely injured and, ignoring his painful wounds, attempted to go to the aid of his companion. Completely disregarding his own safety, he was rushing to his comrade's side when he was mortally injured by the detonation of a rocket-propelled grenade. By his courage, selfless initiative and unwavering devotion to duty Private First Class Rainey inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Lance Corporal Larry Stephen Rainey, Served with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.