THE WALL OF FACES

Although I never met you, my parents remembered you. They have both passed on, but I came across photos from their wedding in which you are shown.
Thank you for your service.

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.

My siblings and I were honored to read aloud your name during the 35th Anniversary of the Vietnam Wall Memorial. We read your name, along with 30 other brave souls, inlcluding our own father who was KIA 8/26/69 and is on Panel 19W Row 122.
Thank you for your sacrifice.

DEAR CORPORAL BOGACZ,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AS AN ARMOR RECONNAISSANCE SPECIALIST. IT HAS BEEN FAR TOO LONG FOR ALL OF YOU TO HAVE BEEN GONE. WE APPRECIATE ALL YOU HAVE DONE, AND YOUR SACRIFICE. WATCH OVER THE U.S.A., IT STILL NEEDS YOUR COURAGE. GOD BLESS YOU. MAY THE ANGELS BE AT YOUR SIDE. REST IN PEACE. YOU ARE ALL IN OUR PRAYERS. IT IS EASTER WEEK, AND PASSOVER - GOD'S BLESSINGS ON YOU.

Even though I was only 5 months old when you were taken from me and mom, I can sometimes feel that you are near. I miss you terribly dad (heavy sigh).
But I do know that at the end of my life we will be united again. I love you.