THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. We should be forever thankful for the sacrifices of you and so many others to ensure the freedoms we so often take for granted.

Dear Lt Richard Rogers, Thank you for your service as an Infantry Unit Commander with the 1st Cavalry. Your 75th birthday is soon, happy birthday. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. It is Agent Orange Awareness month. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance, and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

The following information is from "Breaking Squelch: A Vietnam Introspective" by Stephen D. Saunders. (ISBN 978-0-9637697-2-5). This book contains more than the information I will be passing on.

Rogers volunteered for the paratroopers and became the gunner for an M-60 machine gun team. During this period of time, he dove into a "violently angry water" risking is own life to save a fellow soldier and that soldiers weapon. In his civilian life, Rogers had been a lifeguard. Rogers eventually contracted malaria, was evacuated to Japan. Although in a weakened state, Rogers returned to the field. He finished his tour and went on to Officer Candidates School where he earned his commission.

Richard was a year behind me at Harwich High School in 1964. I knew him well. He had an amazing sense of humor and was very popular. I heard about his death 1968 and the fact that he had volunteered for a second tour in Vietnam in order to exempt his brother from a tour there. Having served in the Army in Vietnam in 1969 I appreciate his bravery and service.

Thank you Lt. Rogers for your exemplary courage under fire.