THE WALL OF FACES

There is a place
Not far from here
Where spirits walk
And heroes live
And honor still resides.

It is a wall
With names inscribed
Of those who served
When they were asked...
The brothers of my youth.

I go there still
To walk and think
About my life,
And what I've done since
And things that might have been.

There is a debt
I can't repay
Too many lives were spent.
And one man's life cannot suffice
To make their deaths worthwhile.

But there is hope
In the memory
Of those we leave behind
Who know the price that freedom brings
Who can carry on in kind.

I send you now
To touch a name
So the vision can be passed
Remember there is honor still
It is for you to see it lasts.

They are not dead
And have a wish
As all old soldiers do
The reflection you see before you now
Is their wish to live in you.

I know you lived down the road from my Uncle Joe Novitzki....and were related to the family...I was the same age as your sister, and remember the pain that was felt by all at your loss. If I remember right, you were just a few weeks from finishing your tour. Thank you for your sacrifice, you gave all. May you be resting in the arms of the Lord. You are not forgotten..

Dear Sgt David Younk, Thank you for your service as an Infantryman. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Lent has begun. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance, and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

Dave I keep missing you still Brother. I will never forget that night. Holding you in my arms until you passed. It was a bad night. Its been almost 50 years now and I still keep re/playing it over and over. I should have told them No Way. Will be seeing you in a few years my Brother. Keep the beer cold.

Photo was taken from the historic book “THE FACES BEHIND THE NAMES - The Vietnam War” with the permission of author Don Ward. Thank you Mr. Ward.

You were one of the brave that answered the call. You honored us by your service and sacrifice. We now honor you each time we stand and sing the words “THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE”. Rest in peace and honor Dave.