THE WALL OF FACES

SSG Jerry S. Ratliff was a Tactical Support Electrical Equipment Repairman serving with the 630th Engineer Company, 70th Engineer Battalion, 937th Engineer Group, 18th Engineer Brigade, U.S. Army Republic of Vietnam Engineer Command. During the Vietnam War, forward combat areas required electricity provided by power generators. Hence, Ratliff’s skills were in demand as the repair and maintenance of generators was a top priority for units operating out of reach of power distribution grids. In late October 1968, Ratliff was in charge of a detail at LZ Nancy, a fire support base and landing zone in the coastal lowlands approximately 11 kilometers (7.0 miles) southeast of Quang Tri City in Quang Tri Province, RVN. During work at Nancy, Ratlif was involved in a dispute with one of the members of the detail which escalated into violence and resulted in him being shot several times in the stomach. Ratliff expired from his wounds at 4:00 AM on October 27, 1968. An inquiry was opened to gather facts about the incident; however, it is unclear what outcome it produced as the Army generally provided very little details regarding such investigations. His body was returned to his hometown of Summertown, TN, where the Military Escort accompanying the remains reported the family was “perturbed that circumstances surrounding the cause of death were not known to them.” Ratliff, an Army volunteer with 10 years of service, was 29 years old. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

Image courtesy of Redbird Research LLC, Saint Charles, MO.

Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

HOOAH

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from 60's girl is touching and reflects her admiration and respect for you. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever….

Dear SSgt Jerry Ratliff, Thank you for your service as a Tactical Systems Electrical Equipment Repairman. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. The57th anniversary of Gulf of Tonkin Incident is soon. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.