THE WALL OF FACES

PVT John B. Woble was an Airborne-qualified Heavy Construction Equipment Operator serving with the 173rd Engineer Company, 173rd Airborne Brigade, U.S. Army Republic of Vietnam. In January 1967, Woble, a 12-year veteran, went absent without leave (AWOL) while serving in Vietnam. At the time, the 173rd was participating in Operation Cedar Falls, a massive search-and-destroy operation to eradicate the Viet Cong from the Iron Triangle area which had become a major enemy stronghold northwest of Saigon. Army officials were uncertain of his whereabouts, and he was later dropped from muster rolls for desertion. On March 3, 1967, military police in the Bien Hoa area located and attempted to take Woble into custody when he depinned a grenade and dropped it at his feet. Making no attempt to avoid the ensuing explosion, Woble was critically injured by the blast. He was admitted to the Army’s 3rd Field Hospital in Saigon where he was treated for injuries including traumatic amputation of both legs at the knee and metal fragmentation injuries to his right hand and above the right eye. He remained at the hospital until April 1st when he expired from acute renal failure and pneumonia secondary to his injuries. Woble was 30 years old. A non-commissioned officer (E-5, Sergeant) during 1956-1963, a subsequent court martial reduced his rank to E-1 (Private). [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

Remember to save for them a place inside of you, and save one backward glance when you are leaving, for the places they can no longer go...

Dear PVT John Woble, Thank you for your service as a Heavy Construction Equipment Operator. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Valentine's Day is soon. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance, and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

I married into the Woble family in 1974, to your brother Micky's son. Always heard great things about Uncle Johnny. Rest in peace John.

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.