THE WALL OF FACES

William and I went thru boot camp together June - August 1966

I grew up with my friend, Buddy Shaw. We went to school together from the first grade through high school. We played baseball together on the same team. Buddy is my friend and always will be friend. He was called Buddy after his Uncle Buddy Shaw who was KIA in WWII.
Before he shipped out, he told me that he probably would be meet the same fate as his Uncle Buddy did. I tried very hard to assure him he would come back home and we’d have some good times again. My friend, I will never forget you, and one fine day, we’ll be together again.

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us….

Dear Lcpl William Shaw, Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. It is another new year. Time moves quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

First met at the bus station in Anniston. A hot June day in 1966. Went to Montgomery. Sworn in to the USMC. Flew to Parris Island on Southern Airways Martin 404. Shaw took the isle seat so I could look out the window. Boot Camp at PI. Just 8 weeks because of the war. Infantry training regiment at Camp Geiger N.C. Came home on the old Southern Railroad. Met his family at the train station in Anniston. He met my family as well. I remember his parents and some younger sisters I think. I was not with Shaw when he was KIA. Talked to the man who was there. He said Shaw died peacefully without pain. Mortar shrapnel. We had some great times together. He was a great friend.