THE WALL OF FACES

Dear Sp5 Gerrit Schouwburg, Thank you for your service as a Medical NCO with the 1st Cavalry. Thank you for the lives you saved. 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.

The war may be forgotten but the warrior will always be remembered. All gave Some-Some gave All. Rest in peace Sky Soldier.

On behalf of those who served with you in the 173rd Airborne Brigade (Separate) and all who followed, we offer our respect and remembrance of your ultimate sacrifice. May you never be forgotten and your family and friends take comfort in your valor in serving.

Dear SP5 Gerrit John Schouwburg, 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, Sir

Curt Carter

The Daily Staff Journal for the 1/8 Cavalry for 24 June 1967 states that around 0530 hrs. in the morning that A Co. requested a Medevac for 3 men injured by incoming grenades. There is 1 KIA and 2 WIAs. The VC who threw the grenade is KIA. He was dressed in black pajamas and had a .45 caliber pistol and a diary that has a list of names. The grenade was thrown west to east at 920195. (This means that it was thrown from the village as the men faced that direction about 200 meters from the shore). Medevac completed at 0555 hrs. This occurred during a cordon operation at the large coastal village of Tan Loc (919-195), about 7 kilometers north of Tam Quan. I was in the hospital at the time, but I was told that a fanatic rushed their position and threw a grenade but was promptly cut down. Doc Shouwburg was responsible for getting me to the hospital before my cellulitis had gotten out of control. I remember his concern and kindness.