THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrances from your sister Theresa are especially poignant and attest to her love for you. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us...

This year, as every year for many, my wife finishes the wreaths she makes for every Memorial Day and our American flag is raised in remembrance, as we observe this somber national holiday. You and our loved ones whose names also are inscribed on the Vietnam Memorial are in our hearts. My family and I will never forget the cost of our freedoms, and the men and women who have and continue to step forward to keep America safe.
With respect, always.
Curt Carter

Corporal Michael Francis Branin Jr., Served with Company C, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

Landing Zone (LZ) Jean was located on Route 198, three miles southwest of Duc Co in Pleiku Province, RVN. In mid-November 1968, LZ Jean was held by Companies C and D, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry. On the 13th, between 7:26 AM and 6:37 PM, Jean received an intense attack by fire. The enemy employed 75mm recoilless rifles, 82mm mortar, and twenty-four 122mm rockets. Helicopter gunships, tactical air support, and artillery was fired on enemy mortar and troop positions with unknown results. U.S. losses at Jean were two killed and two wounded. The lost Americans were PFC Michael F. Branin Jr. and PFC Anthony T. Culotta. Both were posthumously promoted to Corporal. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “Operational Report, 4th Infantry Division - Lessons Learned - re: Operation Binh Tay” at ttu.edu]

Dear CPL Michael Francis Branin Jr, sir.

This year, as every year, our American Flag looks majestic as it snaps to attention in the breeze, as if to return the salute of all those who have served and who are serving. Two Red, White, and Blue Memorial Day wreats, one to the left and one to the right, remain there during this very special Memorial Day holiday.

Remembering you, those you served with who didn't make it home from the Vietnam War, and all who died defending this country.

With respect, sir.

Curt Carter