THE WALL OF FACES

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 sunlight 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.

Dear Cpl James Strecha, Thank you for your service as a Field Artillery Basic. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. It is Memorial Day weekend , and we honor you. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

Thank you for your service and your sacrifice. Thank you for stepping up and answering your country's call. Rest easy knowing you will never be forgotten.

Corporal James Strecha Jr., Served with Battery C, 1st Battalion, 27th Artillery Regiment, Second Field Force, United States Army Vietnam.

Jimmy had just barely returned from R&R in Hawaii with his wife. He was a happy camper after seeing her. Our 155 SP Battery was ordered to move from our base camp to Gia Dinh in the Delta. That is where he was hit by shrapnel. I have visited the wall in DC many times and seeing his name there is still tough even though 50 years ago.