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.

Never forgotten.

Semper Fi, Marine

Dear Cpl Richard Schmitz, Thank you for your service as an Antitank Assaultman. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Merry Christmas. Time moves quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

Dear PFC Richard Schmitz, Thank you for your service as a Cannon Fire Direction Specialist. The 56th anniversary of the start of your tour just passed. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Merry Christmas. Time moves quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

CPL Richard Travis Schmitz served with G Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division, 3rd Marine Amphibious Force. He was killed on Hill 881 by enemy small arms fire (Coffelt Database).

Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Semper Fi, Marine