THE WALL OF FACES

John and I were classmates at Madisonville High School class of 1965. I didn't know him well since we didn't share many classes together.
He was the first person I knew who died in the war and until I found this site I didn't realize he was a Navy corpsman assigned to the Marines. My father did the same in WW II.
Someone uploaded a picture of another classmate on this site, John A. Burden, apparently by mistake. I've added another picture of John C. from the senior yearbook showing him lettering in baseball.
i visited the wall soon after it opened and found John's name. it is one of the most moving war memorials ever built.

Thank you for your devotion to our Country and to your Marines.

Dear HN John Curtis Burden, 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

I remember John well. His senior picture does not due his smile justice. He was easy going and quick to praise his teammates. He had a great sense of humor and his smile was honest and ever present. I remember several times Coach Walls had me catch him as he warmed-upped. My hand always felt has if it was going to bruise. He threw hard, even just getting loose. I know he had to make our rivals feel small throwing from that mound, especially at Madisonville Park; I do not remember one time in the three years I knew him John ever being anything other than supportive of his Maroon teammates. With age I often wonder what if? Of course we will ever know but I do he made a great impression on me.

Oddly enough, I enlisted in the Navy to become a Corpsman on 8/16/67, the day before John was KIA.

Rest easy, Brother. You stand relieved and I have the watch.