THE WALL OF FACES

PFC Michael A. Bustamante at Hunsley Patrol Base in Binh Duong Province, RVN, in 1969.

You will forever remain in our hearts and prayers

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. You were born a day before me. I am now 72 years old and have lived a long and fulfilling life. It is just so terribly sad you did not have that same opportunity. May you rest in eternal peace.

Tomorrow, after 50 years I will get together with Windy Crook and Ken Hageman for a reunion. We were all there that day when Mike was shot. We all thought it was a minor wound and he would be OK and be on a plane back to the states. About a week after the incident our platoon was in base camp when Doc Regal walked in and gave us the news of Mike's passing. Thirty supposedly battle hardened combat soldiers all were in tears. Mike was one of the most respected and well liked members of our unit. I think of Mike all the time and I still have tears in my eyes every time. Mike, we all love and miss you.

I want to thank those of you who served with Michael and were their with him and that day, it's as though through your words I was there which means a lot to me. Our friendship was special we were truly brothers we were close and shared good wholesome times together. He was a good natured person, he was funny, and respectful of everyone around him - when he was around you always knew it was gong to be a good time. So, thank you again for sharing those times with a really good man like Michael B. God bless you all and thank you for your Service!