THE WALL OF FACES

I grew up in Carlsbad, and we lived next to the Brierly family on Ridgecrest dr.. Like another contributor here, my Dad was in the USMC along with Jim's Dad in Korea. All the mother's were friends and supporters of each other during the inevitable absences of their husbands. I was always in awe of Jim, he was one of those "bigger than life " individuals. When he left for Vietnam, I can remember the sense of pride he had for being a part of it, and the dread we felt that went along with it as well. A lot of emotions, that are very hard to describe even today.....then the news came right around Christmas time about his death. The entire neighborhood was in shock , that such a promising young man had been taken at the very prime of his life. . Even all these years later I can see his face and remember the kindness he always showed toward myself and the other younger kids from that area, and how his death just didn't seem real. He set a good example for us all, and for me, it's something I'll remember as long as I'm alive. Thank You Jim.

Dear 1LT James Kenneth Brierly, 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

James is buried at Riverview Cemetery, Streator,IL.

LT Brierly was Class of 1967, USMA, West Point, and is buried at Riverview Cemetery in Streator, IL. We remember him each year at the annual reunion of the 19th Engineer Battalion. He was also memorialized at the dedication of the 19th's permanent Vietnam Monument at Fort Knox, May 15, 2010.

Jim and I were friends because our parents were. His dad and mine were Marines together. (Jim's dad died on active duty-from a stroke?) Our moms comforted one another during their husband's deployments. They lived in Carlsbad & we lived down the road in Leucadia, CA. Jim's family came to visit one time and convinced my sister (age 4-Jim was about 8) that if she jumped off the garage roof as he and his brother Philip had done, they would catch her-result:broken leg. In high school years, we again lived near one another & I sure wished Jim was 2 years older or I was 2 years younger-he was pretty good looking in high school in my opinion. When I have visited the Wall in DC, I have always gone to find his name and say a little prayer for him and his family. They were good people.