THE WALL OF FACES

Jim
You, your brother Charles and I spent hours together as kids in Independence. RIP brother.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from your wife is touching. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us....

I am the daughter of Major Leroy I. Blankenship, KIA 1 Apr 69. Family history says that all Blankenships in the United States are descended from one common ancestor who immigrated from England to Virginia as an indentured servant in the early 1600's. As such, all 15 men on the Wall with the surname Blankenship are distant cousins. If you knew James or are related to him, you are welcome to contact me.

DEAR LIEUTENANT BLANKENSHIP,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AS AN INFANTRY UNIT COMMANDER. IT HAS BEEN FAR TOO LONG FOR ALL OF YOU TO HAVE BEEN GONE. WE APPRECIATE ALL YOU HAVE DONE, AND YOUR SACRIFICE. WATCH OVER THE U.S.A., IT STILL NEEDS YOUR COURAGE.. GOD BLESS YOU. MAY THE ANGELS BE AT YOUR SIDE. REST IN PEACE. MANY OF US HAVE BEGUN OUR JOURNEY TO EASTER. AND YOU ARE ALL IN OUR PRAYERS.

You and I spent many days together playing baseball and football and trading baseball and football cards! You were like my big brother ! You taught me a lot about sports and life! I will never forget you Jim. We both grew up in Susquehanna Village in Independence, MO. When I learned of your passing in Vietnam I was shocked!!! I am also a Vietnam Vet and so this hits me twice as hard! God bless you and your wife and kids! I think of you each day. RIP!