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.

Dear Lcpl Peter Sipp, Thank you for your service as an Armored Amphibian Crewman. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Winter will end soon. Time moves quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

Lance Corporal Peter Elmer Sipp, Served with the 1st Armored Amphibious Company, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

We were pals in junior high. Shared many laughs, funny guy. I served in the Navy and made it back, but you...
So sad, adios my friend.

Easter vacations on Sea Island, Georgia...summers at Rocky Point...you as my date at my high school prom - a scene etched in my memory of you driving up in your little sports car with a white sheet draped over the passenger seat so I wouldn't get my prom dress dirty. All such wonderful memories that I cherish. You gave the ultimate gift as a man of honor, loyalty, and hope. Ever grateful. Semper Fi.