THE WALL OF FACES

Great sadness fills our hearts today
As pipes and drums, in slow march play.
A comrade’s fallen by the way,
And now we say goodbye.

This hero to the very end
Was more than just a casual friend,
Who would a stranger’s life defend,
And now we say goodbye

But we shall cherish, all our days,
The character this life portrayed
With sacrifice so freely made,
And now we say goodbye.

The hand salute, o’er Stars and Stripes,
And distant skirl of highland pipes,
Bid last farewell with hero’s rights,
And now we say goodbye.

While here on Earth, you gave your best.
Now in the Master’s arms you rest.
T’is by your memory we are blessed.
And now we say goodbye.

I don’t know if I ever met you, but I feel like I did. I was born in 1968.
I grew up with Skip, Kevin, and Sheryl. After I found out about you before I went into the Marine Corps, I was always wondering what your medal was. I know that it was hung on the wall in the living room on the left, right above a chair. I served close to 12.5 years. While on deployment to Okinawa in 1989, I saw your picture and MOH Citation. Kevin was also stationed on Okinawa for an unaccompanied tour. I mentioned it to him, and he viewed. As an Infantry Mortarman and nephew, I have learned a lot about you over the years. I am in full belief you and Aunt Shirley have reunited in Heaven. She was always telling me that you would be home soon, when I asked who was the picture of in her room. I wish I would have learned about you as a youngster. Aunt Shirley was one of my favorite Aunts. Being around Pap’s House was always an adventure. My Oldest Son, Jimmy is in the Army, serving with honor and distinction, currently, and My Daughter Alyssia served for 5 years. I am proud of them. I will always uplift your story and sacrifice, as well as Aunt Shirley, Skip, Kevin, and Sheryl. God Bless You!

Ssgt Karl TAYLOR was my Company Platoon Sergeant in Vietnam with India Company 3rd Battalion, 26th Marines in Vietnam. Ssgt TALOR was a true hard charging and dedicated Staff NCO. He also was a outanding leader. Miss you Sir.
W.T. BROWN Sergeant Major Retired, USMC. SEMPER FI

Served with Windy in the Marines with Alpha; 1st Bn; 6th Marines at Camp Lejeune and the Caribbean circa 1960 - 1962. Semper Fi; Marine

Dear Ssgt Karl Taylor, Thank you for your service as an Infantry Unit Leader, and for receiving the MEDAL OF HONOR. Your 89th birthday is soon, happy birthday. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. It is Independence Day weekend. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it still needs your strength, courage, guidance and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.