THE WALL OF FACES

There is a place
Not far from here
Where spirits walk
And heroes live
And honor still resides.

It is a wall
With names inscribed
Of those who served
When they were asked...
The brothers of my youth.

I go there still
To walk and think
About my life,
And what I've done since
And things that might have been.

There is a debt
I can't repay
Too many lives were spent.
And one man's life cannot suffice
To make their deaths worthwhile.

But there is hope
In the memory
Of those we leave behind
Who know the price that freedom brings
Who can carry on in kind.

I send you now
To touch a name
So the vision can be passed
Remember there is honor still
It is for you to see it lasts.

They are not dead
And have a wish
As all old soldiers do
The reflection you see before you now
Is their wish to live in you.

I served with John Rose as an information specialist at Langley Air Force Base, Va., and we lived off-base in the late 1960s. I remember the day, shortly after being discharged in March 1970, getting the call about the crash at Udon. I will always remember our service together and mourn your passing.

John,
Our 60th Bloomfield High School reunion is being held on September 24th. You were one of my best friends at BHS.

Dear Sgt John Rose, Thank you for your service with the 432nd Combat Support Squadron. 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.

SGT John Charles Rose is buried in Section Laurel, Lot NW, Grave 1 of the Glendale Cemetery in Bloomfield, NJ.

Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

HOOAH