THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever…..

Operation Lancaster II was a U.S. Marine Corps security operation that took place in northern Quang Tri Province, RVN, from January 20 to November 23, 1968. The operation followed on from Operation Lancaster I, the prevention of North Vietnamese Army infiltration from across the Demilitarized Zone and from the west, and to provide artillery and logistical support to the Marines at Khe Sanh Combat Base. During Lancaster II, the Marines aggressively patrolled the supply route to Ca Lu at the terminus of Highway QL-9. During the first half of June 1968, E Company, 2nd Battalion, Ninth Marines occupied and defended bridges numbered 17 through 29 west of Ca Lu on QL-9. On June 5th, 1LT John H. Carson was delivering mail to the Marines positioned on the bridges and running patrols. He and his company driver, LCPL David R. Keller, were traveling west on QL-9 when their vehicle hit a mine. Both Marines suffered fatal injuries in the blast. A nearby E/2/9 unit heard the explosion and responded, securing the scene. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org, Command Chronology (2d Bn 9th Marines), June 1968 at ttu.edu, and information provided by Phil Kashnig (August 2020)]

My dad has told me about you and all the stuff you and him used to do. When I was going up the reaper I remember saying to myself over and over again "for Carson". I wish I was able to meet you sir and one day I hope to see you in Valhalla. Oorah sir!

My youngest just graduated MCRD San Diego. He has you within him. He has known you since birth. Keep an eye on him ok Bud?
He only hopes he could be as good as the Marine he came to know as "John Carson". The young ones haven't forgotten, no worry.
See you soon.............

Dear Lt Carson,
Thank you for your service as an Infantry Officer. Yesterday we celebrated Columbus Day, 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.