THE WALL OF FACES

I see by these postings that some are from those who did not know you personally. I have also discovered that you have been awarded the Silver Star. I congratulate you for your sacrifice and the honor you have bestowed upon the Corps.
Since I was in the Army I do not feel I have the right to give you a Semper Fi, so I will say it this way, I was always faithful with you and always will be. When we meet each other I will give you the biggest hug I can. Rest peacefully Ken.
David R. Blevins (Rick)

Dear CPL Kenneth G Blackwell, 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

Silver Star
Awarded posthumously for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Kenneth G. Blackwell (MCSN: 2400695), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, Ninth Marine Amphibious Brigade, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 23 February 1969, Company I was occupying a defensive position in support of Operation TAYLOR COMMON in Quang Nam Province when the Marines came under a vicious ground attack by a North Vietnamese Army force which initially breached the unit's defensive perimeter in the area controlled by Lance Corporal Blackwell's squad. Reacting instantly, he unhesitatingly left his rear position and was moving across the fire-swept terrain toward his men when he observed a hostile soldier who had penetrated the friendly lines. Fearlessly launching an aggressive assault upon the soldier, he killed the man with his knife. As he did so, he was attacked from the rear by another enemy soldier and quickly killed him in fierce, hand-to-hand combat. As he was proceeding toward his objective, he was struck on the back of the head by an object and, turning to identify it, was seriously wounded and rendered unconscious by a grenade which detonated at his feet. Recovering quickly, Lance Corporal Blackwell resumed his maneuvering through the enemy rounds impacting around him and, after receiving medical attention, disregarded his painful injuries as he resolutely resumed control of his squad. His heroic and determined efforts inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Lance Corporal Blackwell upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

Action Date: 23-Feb-69

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Lance Corporal

Company: Company I

Battalion: 3d Battalion

Regiment: 26th Marines, Ninth Marine Amphibious Brigade

Kenneth is buried at Evergreen Cemetery, Tucson, AZ. SS PH

Kenney,
We grew up together,hunted together, ran through the drain tunnels together. The month you were killed, was the same month I went to Vietnam. I survived, and you still remain in my heart to this day. I forgive you, please forgive me.