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 Sp4 James Russ, Thank you for your service as a Field Artillery Basic. I researched you on your 74th birthday, happy birthday. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Happy Halloween. Time moves quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

SP4 James E. Russ was an artilleryman serving with Howitzer Battery, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Division. At approximately 2:30 AM on May 15, 1970, during an incursion into Cambodia with his unit, SP4 Russ was in a night defensive position which was subjected to an enemy mortar attack. Russ was critically injured after suffering multiple fragmentation wounds to the chest, abdomen, spine, and right arm, resulting in serious internal injuries. He was medivacked to the 45th Surgical Hospital at 3:30 AM, his condition worsening later that day. On May 18th he was transferred to the 24th Evacuation Hospital where he expired due to renal failure and septicemia (blood poisoning). [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

Dear SP4 James Erwin Russ, 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, Sir

Curt Carter

James is buried at Maple Hill Cemetery in Cadillac, MI.