THE WALL OF FACES

Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

HOOAH

SP4 Douglas E. Byrd was an artilleryman serving with Headquarters & Headquarters Battery (HHB), 1st Battalion, 14th Artillery, 23rd Infantry Division (Americal), U.S. Army Republic of Vietnam. During 1970, the U.S. Army’s 23rd Infantry Division, nicknamed “Americal,” supported pacification efforts in I Corps’ southernmost provinces of Quang Tin and Quang Ngai. The Americans conducted continuous patrols to shield the population combined with raids, sweeps, and reaction operations to keep the enemy off balance and relieve military posts and communities under threat. Byrd’s unit provided fire support to friendly forces needing heavy explosives to bombard enemy positions. On October 8, 1970, Byrd was on stand down when he drowned at an authorized beach area four kilometers southeast of Chu Lai Airfield in Quang Tin Province. He reportedly was recreational swimming in the waters of the South China Sea with two friends when they noticed he was missing. His body was recovered. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. It saddens me so few have left remembrances for you here...surely you deserve better. May you rest in eternal peace.

Dear Spec 4 Douglas Byrd,
Thank you for your service as a Field Artillery Basic. Your 68th birthday is at the end of the month. Happy Birthday. You are on the same panel as a former friend's brother. Say hi to him, he is Mike Smith. As we celebrate Labor Day, and enjoy our freedom, 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 SP4 Douglas Everett Byrd, 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