THE WALL OF FACES

Some may think you are forgotten
Though on earth you are no more
But in our memory you are with us
As you always were before….

Ricky, and his younger brother Randy, were two of my best friends in Granite City, Il. We often went for long hikes on the railroad tracks, or camping with the Royal Ambassadors at Emmanuel Baptist Church. I still remember you and your family and am thankful for the youthful times we spent together. God bless Randy and those who survive you. Thankful for your service and your sacrifice. I hope we made a difference.

Dear Sp4 Richard Shilt, Thank you for your service as a Clerk-Typist. Your tour started on your birthday, sad. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Happy Valentine’s Day. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

At just 19 years old, Thank you for the courage you had to serve your country well and sacrifice your life during such dangerous times in American history.
Rest In Eternal Peace

I often wondered what other brave young men may have lost their lives in Viet Nam on the same day as my brother, Randy Lee Taylor. I have the documents with your name above my brothers where the Republic of Viet Nam Armed Forces honored you both, along with William J. Bryant - posthumously with a meritorious award;; ARMED FORCES HONOR MEDAL, SECOND CLASS.

Had we there to receive this award this is what was said:

"Article 1: This formalizes the posthumous award of the ARMED FORCES HONOR MEDAL, SECOND CLASS, to the following United States Army Personnel whose names appear below, with the following meritorious citation:

Industrious servicemen who always displayed an exemplary spirit of dedication to duty, goodwill, and close cooperation.

With broad experience and high professional ability, they helped the Republic of VietNam Armed Forces in an efficient and effective manner, thereby achieving many splendid results."