THE WALL OF FACES

I grew up a couple of doors down from the Thorntons. Terry and his older brother Danny were basketball gods to us neighborhood kids. Once his younger brother David and friend Peanut Price were snowballing us in our fort in the backyard and Terry joined us to thwart the attack. He later took the time one Saturday afternoon to teach this very non athletic kid how to properly shoot a freethrow and jumpshot. I wish I could say that I became a great basketball player due to his tutelage but alas, I wasn't even mediocre. Both of my children had the honor of going to the Vietnam Memorial on their 8th grade trips to Washington D.C.. Before they each went, I sat them down and told them about Terry. Being able to search out his name and take a rubbing really helped bring the war into view for them and to honor and remember Terry for me.

Dear PFC Terry Lee Thornton, 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

Terry is buried at Graceland Cemetery, Fairbury,IL. BSM PH

You are always in our hearts.