THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. Your Silver Star citation attests to your courage and devotion to your fellow soldiers. May you rest in eternal peace.

Dear Lt Joe Carrillo,
Thank you for your service as an Infantry Unit Commander. It is Columbus Day weekend, and we remember those of you who served. 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.

He died too young. He had a great wife, daughter and future. He sacrificed his life for his country. A real hero.....

Joe Carrillo , Jr.
Date of birth: September 21, 1940
Date of death: May 8, 1968
Home of record: Tucson Arizona
Status: KIA

AWARDS AND CITATIONS

Silver Star

Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Joe Carrillo, Jr. (ASN: 0-5338794), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving close combat against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Carrillo distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 8 May 1968, while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company B, 3d Battalion, 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, on a reconnaissance in force mission in Saigon, Vietnam. Upon arrival in the hostile area, Lieutenant Carrillo tactically directed his platoon against a dangerous enemy machine gun emplacement. As the first squad proceeded toward the dangerous Viet Cong bunker position, the squad leader was seriously wounded. Realizing the extreme danger the casualty was subject to, Lieutenant Carrillo courageously moved from his relatively secure position, through the fierce barrage of hostile fire, to the injured man's position. When the insurgents saw an officer reach the casualty, they brought devastating fire upon the position, mortally wounding Lieutenant Carrillo. Lieutenant Carrillo's extraordinary heroism in close combat against a Viet Cong force was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

General Orders: Headquarters, 9th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 5213 (June 28, 1968)

Action Date: May 8, 1968

Service: Army

Rank: First Lieutenant

Company: Company B

Battalion: 3d Battalion

Regiment: 39th Infantry Regiment

Division: 9th Infantry Division

Dear 1LT Joe Carrillo Jr, 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