THE WALL OF FACES

Sandy,

During the time that we served together in RVAH-12, and during our deployment on the U.S.S. Constellation (CVA-64) we became friends. It has now been nearly 48 years since I last saw you on the night before your plane crashed. You were flying as an Air Crewman, with your old squadron which was also onboard "Connie" and you were officially transferred back to that squadron on the same day that you were killed. You and the two others who were onboard the plane you were on were killed when the plane crashed while being launched. You were the only one recovered from the water, but you died before the chopper could get you back to the ship.

I was privileged to speak by telephone to your sons several years ago, after I had responded to a posting that one of them had left asking for information about you. I think that you would be very proud of them. They are now grown, married with children of their own, and probably by now, grandchildren.

Your wife remarried, and her new husband treated your sons as though they were his own. Although they were both very young when they lost you, your memory has been kept alive so that they have not forgotten you. I'm certain that you would be happy to know that they were blessed to have another father come into their lives to guide them and to provide the special love and caring that is needed by children. I know how lucky they were because I was also blessed with a special man, who became my step-father, after my own father died when I was only 14.

Even after all these years I still often think of you, of the friendship we had and of the good times that we shared.

Mark

Im sad I didnt get to meet you

Dear ADJ1 Richard Wells Sandifer, 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

You gave your life for your country and for this we Salute You.

Richard is buried at Willamette Nat Cem.