THE WALL OF FACES

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.

This is his boot camp photo from Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Platoon 2001. He earned the title “U.S. Marine” on August 19, 1967.

Thank you for your service to our great country my brother. Semper Fi.

Dear Cpl Matthew Ruden, Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. I researched you on your 73rd birthday, happy birthday. Your 53rd anniversary is soon, sad. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Halloween is next weekend. Time moves quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

Matt I remember you everyday but especially on Memorial Day. You were a great man and always made people smile! Miss you my friend and it was a pleasure to serve with you! Semper Fi! RIP brother Matthew ????

Operation Henderson Hill was a search and clear operation conducted in Quang Nam Province (I Corps), RVN, by the 5th Marines as a follow-up to Operation Mameluke Thrust. On November 3, 1968, during operations against the NVA’s 1st Battalion, 36th Regiment, elements of E Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines were moving forward for an assault upon NVA positions near Thon Bon when a Marine F-4 Phantom II fighter/bomber accidently released its bombs on the Marine’s location. Seven Americans were killed in the incident and several others were wounded. The lost Marines included LCPL Joseph E. Davis Jr., PFC Larry D. DuBose, CPL Michael J. Foy, CPL Matthew A. Ruden, PFC John F. Schrom, HM3 John B. Thorton, and LCPL Thomas E. Welch. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “U.S. JET HITS OWN FORCES; 6 ARE KILLED.” Chicago Tribune, November 4, 1968]