THE WALL OF FACES

I had tried contacting anyone who might have known Lt Willis, but no response. That was years ago. Now after reading what friends and family have said I know he was a great man but I knew it then the day he died next to me. It was his second day as platoon leader of 3rd platoon Charlie co. All of the family 13 of you can be proud. Those of us Vietnam veterans will not forget. We can’t. We remember all lost.

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.

Dear Lt Joel Willis, Thank you for your service as an Infantry Unit Commander. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. You are remembered. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

First Lieutenant Joel Thomas Willis, Served with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

Joel was always in a cheerful mood during our 6 months in Officers' Candidate School. His loss saddened me. R.I.P. Joel.