THE WALL OF FACES

The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotions and spends himself in a great worthy cause; who at the best, knows in the end triumph of high achievement and, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while caring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold, timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat. Theodore Roosevelt

Dear Lt Thomas Staples, Thank you for your service as an Infantry Unit Commander. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. The 47th anniversary of the Fall of Saigon just passed. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

First Lieutenant Thomas Trammel Staples II, Served with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 199th Infantry Brigade, United States Army Vietnam.

Dear 1LT Thomas Trammel StaplesII, 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, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter

Thomas is buried at Marietta National Cemetery.