THE WALL OF FACES

Sergeant William Dean Bushard, Served with Company B, 1st Battalion, 501st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, United States Army Vietnam.

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 sunlight 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.

SGT William D. Bushard, PFC Larry R. Gilbertson, and SP4 William D. Sparks were infantrymen serving with B Company, 1st Battalion, 501st Infantry, 101st Airborne Division. On June 9, 1969, they were on a night combat operation with their unit southwest of Tam Ky in Quang Tin Province, RVN, when a supporting artillery shell directed at the enemy burst over their position. The 105mm round scattered fragments which fatally wounded Bushard, Gilbertson, and Sparks. Sparks was posthumously promoted to sergeant. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

Dear Sgt William Bushard,
Thank you for your service as an Infantryman. As the another summer comes to an end, it is important for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

Dear SGT William Dean Bushard, 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, Sir

Curt Carter