THE WALL OF FACES

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.

Dear PFC Bungartz,

My father was the Senior Corpsman of Kilo 3/9. On Valentine's Day 1968 you lost your life in service to our country. My father was killed in action that day while trying to protect a wounded Marine. I have researched the battle to the best of my ability and believe that Marine was you. I take comfort in knowing that you did not die alone. Your body and my dads lay on the ridge together - along with the bodies of eight other Marines who were killed in that ambush. I am very thankful your remains were brought down from the ridge on 3-6th, 1968. To your family, I want to say that I will never forget you and will always speak your name. I will also make sure my children never forget you and the other Marines who bravely fought on 2-14th and 2-15th. You and my dad will always be connected in my mind.
Thank you PFC Bungartz.

My dad, Doc Larry Jo Goss was killed in the same battle as you on Valentine’s Day 1968. My dad was last seen on the battlefield shielding a wounded Marine with his own body. Both my dad and the Marine showed no signs of life. I have researched all 13 of the men killed from wounds received during that battle and have deducted that the Marine by dad was attempting to save was you or Lowell Combs. I’m sorry your body was left on the ridge for 21 days. My dad’s body decomposed beside of of very near yours. I would like to meet your family and know more about your life. I can be reached at 765-669-2689. If you are still with my dad please tell him I am proud of both of you.

Private First Class Frederick William Bungartz, Served with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

Although I did not know you, I honor your name. Although I did not know you, I honor your history. Although I did not know you, I honor your service, because without you, I would not be free. I was 7 years old when you honored your country with your life. I am now 58 years old, because you were a citizen of the Home of the Brave.