THE WALL OF FACES

Dear PFC Samuel Rodriguez, Thank you for your service as a Machine Gunner. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. It is Autumn. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance, and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

You will forever remain in our hearts and prayers

On January 29, 1969, G Company, 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines, 1st Marine Division, was at a location approximately three miles south of Hill 55 in Quang Nam Province, RVN. The Marines were formed up in an L-shape line which spread out over a significant distance. All throughout the day they were being harassed by enemy sniper fire which had carried over from an engagement the previous day. A resupply helicopter was dispatched near their position, however, terrain and the tactical situation on the ground required it land approximately 1000 yards away. Members of 2nd Platoon were sent out to retrieve the resupply material. It is believed they failed to carry a radio with them. While they were at a long distance from the Marines’ line, a PFC forward observer (FO) noticed their movement. Apparently uninformed of 2nd Platoon’s assignment to retrieve the resupply’s goods, the FO called a fire mission on what he believed was a hostile force. Two rounds of 81mm white phosphorous and four rounds of 81mm high explosive mortar fell near 2nd Platoon’s location. Five Marines were killed in the incident, including several who had taken shelter in a large crater when they heard the incoming rounds. Another eight were wounded. The FO was immediately removed from the field for his own protection. The lost personnel included PFC William R. Douillette Jr., LCPL Cal T. Hammack, LCPL John R. Kaawa, PFC Frank M. Koerner, and PFC Samuel Rodriguez. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org, Command Chronology, Ninth Marine Amphibious Brigade, January 1969, and information provided by Anonymous (October 2018)]

On January 29, 1969, G Company, 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines, 1st Marine Division, was in a location approximately three miles south of Hill 55 in Quang Nam Province, RVN, when it was hit by several rounds of friendly mortar fire. The Marine position was struck by two rounds of 81mm white phosphorous and four rounds of 81mm high explosive. The friendly fire incident resulted in five Marine deaths and another eight wounded. The lost personnel included PFC William R. Douillette Jr., LCPL Cal T. Hammack, LCPL John R. Kaawa, PFC Frank M. Koerner, and PFC Samuel Rodriguez. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

Dear PFC Samuel Rodriquez, 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