THE WALL OF FACES

For gallery in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile forces: Specialist Four Stamper distinguished himself April 14, 1972, by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as door gunner on a utility helicopter which was flight lead for a combat assault mission in the An Khe area of Vietnam. Republic of Korea forces had been in heavy contact with a determined enemy force for three days prior to Specialist Four Stamper’s valorous actions. Early in the afternoon, a landing zone had been prepared for insertion of troops to successfully combat the advancing force. Enroute to the landing zone, Specialist Stamper’s aircraft had been advised that a hot landing zone could be expected. Upon entering the landing zone, his aircraft began to take a heavy volume of fire, killing two Koreans on board. Specialist Stamper at this time received a wound which knocked him from his weapon. Completely disregarding his own safety, he courageously pulled himself up and once again placed pinpoint fire on the enemy positons. The second and fatal wound was then received by Specialist Stamper which knocked him to the floor of the aircraft. His daring courage, quick thinking and devotion to duty were in keeping with the very highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. [Taken from SP4 Stamper’s Silver Star citation]

I flew with David with the 129th AHC. We were Ist flight. I was
crew chief . David had a wonderful sense of humor . He made the days better just being with you. Richard Nixon pulled me out of country a month before my DEROS date. David took over my crew chief duties. I remember him every day.

the world lost a great man that terrible day in 71.

Upon arrival at Ft. Jackson, S.C. for Basic Training, can you imagine 1/2 of the Platoon on Tank Hill was from West Virginia and 1/2 from New York City?
The Army had a way back then to make us all assimilate. We all had the same haircuts and OD Green uniforms. I remember the fun laughter after lights out of jokes that went back and forth between both groups, and Stamper saying he was from "West 'by God' Virginia. That seemed to settle it. Later, we went to AIT at Ft. Rucker for 67n20 Crew Chief training. I remember the deep sadness and anger that came over me from his death. It's taken years to soften, but the pain remains. An incredibly quick thinker and funny young man!
We were soldiers once, and young. So very young.

David was my crew chief the day that he died, April 14, 1972 just east of the An Khe Pass. He was a good crew chief and a good man. We were all so young. I have thought of you every day of my life since that sad day. I carry the burden of you death with me. I do wish that I had had the strength to go see your parents on my return for RVN, but it just didn't happen. Thank you for my life David.
Dennis Faucher

Dear SP4 David Hiram Stamper, 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