THE WALL OF FACES

We are doing a history project, and i am thankful that your son, or family member served.

Dear SGT William Manuel Scanlon, 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

Uncle Butchie...oh how you are missed. I feel the pain of your loss on a daily basis...even though you were gone before I entered this world. I was born 9 months after you passed. I sometimes wonder if God sent me to help ease the pain the family was enduring to have lost you way too soon. I feel an unbelievable connection to you and tremendous pain around your loss and war in general. You will always be a huge part of our lives and will never be forgotten. I know I will meet you someday my sweet uncle. Until then I will continue to think about you each and every day. Even in your absence, you have inspired and influenced my life more than anyone else. I love you!!

Even though I write this 43 years since your passing and through all the tears, hurt, and anguish, I still treasure you being such an important part of my life. I remember the fun, laughter, craziness, and the tears of joy that we shared. Now, as time has marched on and the years have gone by, my love for you is still strong and you reside in that special place of my heart only reserved for those dearest to me. Butchie, you were robbed of a long life that was sacrificed in a senseless war. Yet, in that short life, you have left an indelible mark on all those who have known you and have loved you. Your death has called into question the value of war and in the end realizing that it is a selfish attitude of man expressed through violence, tragedy, and ignorance. One of my strongest regrets is that my children, your nieces, did not get to know you, but they certainly know of you. Sleep well my beautiful brother.

William is buried at Los Banos Cemetery, Los Banos, Merced County,CA.