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.

Your grave is about 20 yards from my dad’s. Every time I go to see him, I always come to attention and render a salute to you. God bless you

Never forgotten.

HOOAH

Dear Sp4 Raymo Santilli, Thank you for your service as an Armor Reconnaissance Specialist. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. It is Advent. Time moves quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

I was in Basic Training with Raymo. We were infucted on the same day in Pittsburg. I’m writing a memoir and have included his story. I gel that for the grace of God go I. We were the same age and from similar Italian circumstances. I want to express my sympathy to any and all of Raymo’s family. I am grateful that I had the life that I had, one that was deprived him and many others. He is remembered.