THE WALL OF FACES

The Central Highlands of South Vietnam is characterized by steep mountains with heavily vegetated and canopied areas of teak, mahogany and bamboo. Moving through this dense growth is extremely challenging. Nevertheless, during the last quarter of 1968, 4th Infantry Division long-range patrol teams (LRP’s) operating in the Central Highlands in Kontum Province detected the presence of North Vietnamese Army (NVA) units. These enemy units were responsible for carrying out attacks on Allied bases in the area. The U.S. responded by routinely sending Air Force B-52 Stratofortress strategic bombers from Guam and Thailand to target enemy base camps, troop concentrations, and supply lines reported by the LRP’s. On November 2, 1968, Company D, 3rd Battalion, 12th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division, was inserted by helicopter approximately three miles west of Ben Het village to conduct a bomb damage assessment of a B-52 strike. During the mission, the Americans were engaged by an estimated reinforced squad of NVA soldiers. Enemy fire killed two U.S. and wounded eight. The lost personnel were SP4 Ralph R. Carpenter Jr. and SGT Eugene T. Daly Jr. Three NVA were reported killed. A lack of follow up attacks or significant probes by the enemy indicated that the squad had been operating independently and unsupported by any major infantry units in the area. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and “Operational Report - Lessons Learned, Headquarters, 4th Infantry Division Artillery, Period Ending 31 January 1969” at dtic.mil]

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. The remembrance from Pat Hulsman is touching. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever....

SP4 Ralph R. Carpenter Jr. on Hill 990, approximately three miles from Ben Het Airfield in Kontum Province, RVN, September 1968.

Thank you for your service and your sacrifice. Thank you for stepping up and answering your country's call. Rest easy knowing you will never be forgotten.

Dear SP4 Ralph Carpenter,
Thank you for your service as an Infantryman. 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 strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.