THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrances from your fellow soldiers attest to their love and respect for you. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us...

In the early evening of September 9, 1966, four U.S. Marine Corps LVT tracked vehicles were conducting a resupply mission, carrying ammo and supplies to a unit in the field in Quang Nam Province, RVN. Approximately five miles northeast of Dien Ban village, the lead vehicle passed through what was known as the “horseshoe,” a bend in a stream that the tractors regularly crossed. An enormous explosion occurred as the LVT erupted in flames. The blast, believed to be from a command-detonated mine, destroyed the vehicle and killed two Marines. Another nine were injured. An Army of Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) Major was also killed. The two lost Marines were LCPL James A. Branson and LCPL Joseph W. Matt. Matt died after suffering fragmentation wounds to the head, face, and left arm. Branson was critically injured with third degree burns over 85% of his body. He was evacuated to U.S. Naval Station Hospital in Da Nang where he died the following morning. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and Command Chronology, 1st Marine Division (Reinforced), September 1966, and information provided by Ray Farmer and Jim Falotico (September 2018)]

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.

Dear LCPL Branson,
Thank you for your service as an Assault Amphibious Crewman. Semper fi Independence Day is approaching, and it is important for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

Dear LCPL James Allan Branson, 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