THE WALL OF FACES

Dear LCPL John Michael Tanney, 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

Rest in peace with the warriors.

“We are United States Marines. We are the best troops in the world. We fight odds that are heavily against us – and win! Our spirit is indomitable, our courage unexcelled, and our loyalty is unquestionable. I felt like writing to you. Perhaps it sounds foolish. Perhaps it is. But you can never imagine what it is like – not knowing if I’m coming back down that hill. I wanted you to have something from me to you. I love you, Bob, but you are too young to know it. Someday you will know. I will leave you now – time is short.

Love to you,

Brother John.”



Closing paragraph from LCpl John Tanney, USMC, to his 7 month old brother Bob. This letter was only to be opened in the event of John’s death. Unfortunately, LCpl Tanney was killed in action in September 1968 in the jungles of Vietnam.

 

John is buried at St Peter's Cemetery, Rome, NY.

John,

You were the first in our neighborhood to go to Nam. I will always remember your smile and the way you looked after us younger kids.

Thanks for being an inspiration to all of us.

LTC Orie Illi
US Army (Retired)
1977 - 1997 (Just Cause / Desert Strom)