THE WALL OF FACES

Dear LCPL Thomas Caseym
Thank you for your service as a Machine Gunner. 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.

Today is the day in every year that way's heavy on my heart and mind. Time stands still for me on this day and I pose to remember my friend Casey. I remember the fun,good and little things we shared from that first night when we left from So. Station to become Marine,s! It brings a smile to my face and I say a little pray. I will always be greatfull for having had him in my life. Rest in peace my friend and know you are alway's remembered. Semper Fi John Donnelly

Thomas Michael Casey , Jr.
Date of birth: 6-Jul-46
Date of death: February 16, 1969
Home of record: Milton Massachusetts
Status: KIA

AWARDS AND CITATIONS

Navy Cross

Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Thomas Michael Casey, Jr. (MCSN: 2422191), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company D, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 16 February 1969, Company D was assaulting a large North Vietnamese Army force occupying a well-entrenched position in Quang Nam Province. Alertly observing an enemy fortification, Lance Corporal Casey launched a determined assault upon the hostile position, delivering accurate fire as he fearlessly maneuvered across fifty meters of fire-swept terrain. Upon reaching the hostile bunker, he boldly hurled grenades into it, destroying the North Vietnamese emplacements and killing an enemy soldier. Disregarding his own safety, he went to several casualties, and ignoring the hostile rounds impacting around him, skillfully administered first aid to his wounded comrades. Realizing the need for an M-79 grenade launcher, he again rushed across the hazardous area and, obtaining the weapon, returned to the position of heaviest contact. When two additional Marines were wounded, he unhesitatingly commenced maneuvering through a hail of fire to assist the injured men, but as he approached the casualties he was mortally wounded. His heroic actions and aggressive fighting spirit inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several Marines. By his courage, sincere concern for the welfare of his comrades, and selfless devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Casey upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

General Orders: Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

Action Date: 16-Feb-69

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Lance Corporal

Company: Company D

Battalion: 1st Battalion

Regiment: 7th Marines

Division: 1st Marine Division (Rein.) FMF

Don't think a day goes by that I do not think of Tommy and what his friendship meant to me. I visit him as much as I can, he is always in my heart and thoughts. I do miss smile and laugh and often hear it when I visit him. Semper-Fi always my friend, Cpl. John Donnelly

I drive thru his home town on my way to Boston often,in the future I'll be thinking of you.