THE WALL OF FACES

Dear Sgt Frank Saracino, Thank you for your service as an Infantryman. I researched you on your 73rd birthday, happy birthday. 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.

Sergeant Frank De Paul Saracino Jr., Served with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, United States Army Vietnam.

The above was Frank's name in French class where I first met him. Charming, intelligent, good sense of humor and all around good guy. Never turned his back on anyone who needed help. Thanks for the memories, Frank.

SGT Frank D. Saracino Jr. was an infantryman serving with Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry. On March 20, 1969, he was leading a squad of ACAV soldiers on a BDA (bomb damage assessment) mission. After inspecting a destroyed bunker, SGT Saracino took up the point position and continued the operation. After moving just a short distance, Saracino yelled, “Gooks!” when a concealed enemy bunker was detected. Caught in the open, Saracino looked left, then right, then straight ahead. He next charged the bunker, firing his weapon on full automatic. His brave, solo assault on the bunker cost him his life when a barrage of enemy AK-47 fire cut him down. But by doing so he saved the men of his squad when the enemy attack focused on him, allowing his comrades time to seek cover. [Taken from the book American Warrior by J.C. Bahnsen Jr.]

It was my privilege to care for Frank Saracino Sr. in Fort Collins a decade ago. Frank Sr. was a Navy Seabee in World War II, reporting to Pearl Harbor after the bombing attack that signaled our entry into the war. Losing his son in Vietnam broke his heart. I will never forget the service and sacrifice of the Saracino family of Colorado.

Wherever you are, Frank Jr and Frank Sr, Semper Fidelis.
Howard Grantham