THE WALL OF FACES

Dear LCPL Philippe Bruce Stephen, 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.

With respect, Sir

Curt Carter

Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, SC

Third Battalion
Platoon 372

Commenced Training:
17March1966

Completed Training:
11May1966

SDI - SSGT R.E. Van Tassell
JDI - SGT J.R. O'Brien
JDI - SGT C.E. Krause Jr.
JDI - SGT L.J. Wasirick

Six other members of Platoon 372 were KIA in Vietnam.
LCPL Richard H. Frost - Holmes Beach, FL
PFC Otto C. Grabow - Bethpage, NY
LCPL Danny M. Greene - Mt. Gay, WV
LCPL John O. Rhodes - Thonotosassa, FL
LCPL Frank T. Roth - Philadelphia, PA
LCPL Samuel A. Singer - Philadelphia, PA

Photo and above info recovered with help from Marine Bob Gross, member of Platoon 372.

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.

Mary Frye – 1932

Marine Lance Cpl. Philippe B. Stephen, 20, son of Mrs. Virgie Stephen, of 745 N. 63rd st.
Stephen was killed on Sunday, in the vicinity of Quang Ngai. He entered the Marines in March, 1966, after attending Overbrook High School and Temple University.
His mother said Stephen wrote that it was a "complete hell where he was and the fighting was tough." He said he had hoped to return home in September.
Other survivors include two sisters, Sandra, 15, and Jo Ella, 10.

Semper Fidelis, Marine!